THEY’RE keen to help young people in our community. And the cofounders of Angie’s Angels - Lou Pomponio (le ), Tony Molinaro (centre) and Julian Marotta - will even walk several hundreds kilometres in Italy to help fundraise for their cause.
IN a move which could impact a proposed $750m solar facility in the King Valley, the Victorian Government has been asked to adopt a policy that would protect high value natural and agricultural land from the installation of renewable energy facilities.
BY STEVE KELLY skelly@ nemedia.com.au
The Biodiversity Councilan independent expert group founded by 11 Australian universities to promote evidence-based solutions to Australia’s biodiversity crisis - wants the government to roll out mapping and analysis of regions across the state that will determine places that have low agricultural
and natural values rather than areas that are simply close to transmission line infrastructure.
Biodiversity Council member and Professor in Conservation Ecology Brendan Wintle from The University of Melbourne, said agricultural values would include the land’s proximity to rivers, irrigation and soil fertility.
He said the mapping would
look at the natural values and look at where the critical habitats such as wetlands are for the most threatened species.
“The University of Melbourne is leading a rapid analysis to help identify ‘green-light’ zones where renewable energy projects could be rolled out with the lowest impacts on agriculture, nature and culturally
important species and places,” Prof Wintle said.
“For example, ‘green-light’ zones are likely to include degraded cleared land that is no longer being used for agriculture and, in the case of wind farms, well away from the ight paths of vulnerable bird and bat species.
“This would be a mapbased exercise, but it also has to be community based and
at times there will be cultural values in certain areas that aren’t well-mapped and people need to be consulted as well so those values are brought forward.”
It comes as the State Government announced it would fast-track all renewable energy projects in a bid to speed up the green energy roll out.
■ Continued page 3
A RENEWED focus on driver distraction will be at the core of RoadSafe North East’s road safety awareness campaign over coming months.
The community road safety group is aiming to reactivate its messaging around mobile phone use by drivers, with recent surveys showing that just over half of motorists use their phones while driving.
Concern about the high rates of mobile phone usage by drivers, and their attitudes towards these behaviours which pose a
risk to other motorists and to cyclists and pedestrians, has prompted RoadSafe NE to activate the Driver Distraction campaign across the region.
The group said ndings from surveys conducted over the past 12 months, which focused on drivers’ attitudes to distractions such as mobile phone usage, revealed some alarming perceptions.
When questioned, most drivers were aware of the rules and dangers of risky behaviours while driving, with some believing this
didn’t apply to them, as they could ‘do it safely’.
About a quarter of survey participants admitted to making or receiving phone calls, checking emails, social media, maps and YouTube, and only a small percentage of those questioned used their phone while mounted in an approved hands-free holder xed to the vehicle.
John Weinert, spokesperson for RoadSafe NE, said anecdotal feedback from interviews with drivers was
Wangaratta
Lake
(02) 9261 1930.
“Multi-tasking has become second nature to many of us with our busy modern lives, with mobile phones delivering news, entertainment and daily communication,” he 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
public and other road users.
“Taking your eyes o 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 vehicles at all times, and there is increasing evidence of drivers being distracted.
“Watching screens instead of the road puts drivers, passengers and other road users at considerable risk, and may result
MILAWA Oxley Rotary Club members, Melissa and Peter Hebbard, recently joined forces with the Rotary Club of Agra Tajmahal - Polio Volunteers and Projects in India.
Ms Hebbard said it had been “an experience of a lifetime”.
She expressed deep gratitude for the warm embrace, hospitality and friendship extended by the local Rotarians during their visit.
Their journey has been marked by profound encounters with the incredible work being done to serve communities in remote villages, schools, and family homes across the region.
A er a monumental e ort, India achieved polio-free status about eight years ago.
However, their border countries, Pakistan and Afghanistan, still battle the virus that is endemic in their countries.
Ms Hebbard said it is vital to ensure every child receives vaccination to keep them safe and to maintain a polio-free world.
“For the people of India, living there is fraught with constant fear due to their vulnerability of living so close to the wild poliovirus,” she said.
“Yet, with Rotary’s dedicated
vaccination e orts, we’re inching closer to a world free of this debilitating disease.”
Milawa Oxley Rotary Club remains committed to supporting vaccination e orts and initiatives aimed at eradicating polio.
The Hebbard’s journey is a source of inspiration, highlighting the importance of global cooperation in achieving a poliofree world.
To support these e orts and make a di erence, the Milawa
in a heavy ne and loss of multiple demerit points.”
Mr Weinert said while it was legal to use a phone when mounted in a xed unit, there were strict limitations imposed.
He said the only safe option was not to use a phone while driving, and particularly urged motorists to consider their actions ahead of the busy Easter holiday period.
“There are enough problems on our roads with issues like potholes, without adding the use of mobile phones,” he said.
A BRIGHT woman has pleaded not guilty to driving under the influence, challenging the authenticity of a breath test analyser and the authority of the officer who conducted the test.
Police bodycam footage of the incident on November 6, 2022, when the defendant was pulled over by police at Wandiligong for a routine breath test, was screened in Wangaratta Magistrates Court last week.
Informant Leading Senior Constable Anthony Short was shown to have conducted a preliminary breath test on the sole occupant of the vehicle, who had admitted to having “a few apple ciders” before leaving a nearby venue.
Preliminary testing showed the defendant was over the 0.05 per cent legal limit and she was taken to Bright Police Station for further testing.
Later testing at the station’s breath test analyser showed the defendant had blown almost two times the legal limit with a blood alcohol consumption of 0.95 per cent.
The retiree was attending a family gathering and was remorseful of her alleged offending.
Defence counsel Kyle McDonald challenged the authenticity of the device used to undertake the breath test, since evidence of an identification plate of the machine was missing from the penalty infringement notice, which is required under the Road Safety Act.
“It’s not an essential matter of the incident, but it’s an essential matter of proof,” he said.
Oxley Rotary Club invites the community to join them for a Taste of India night on April 2 at St Paul’s Church at $20 per head. Proceeds are going towards supporting ongoing polio eradication initiatives. For more information and to book your tickets for the Taste of India night go to https:// events.humanitix.com/rotaryclub-of-milawa-oxley-a-tasteof-india or email us at the milawaoxleyrotaryclub@gmail.com.
Mr McDonald also challenged the authority of LSC Short to conduct the test, with the Road Safety Act also stating a breath analysing instrument needed to be operated by a person authorised to do so by the Chief Commissioner of Police.
Police prosecutor Senior Constable Victoria Lennon said it was clear in LSC Short’s bodycam footage and proceeding evidence given as a witness in court that he had checked the identification plate of the machine and was satisfied with its working condition and an assertion of power was permitted.
The matter will return to court on May 2.
WANGARATTA police seized what they say is a “significant quantity” of illicit drugs during an operation in Murphy Street over the weekend.
Sergeant Phil Pelgrim of Wangaratta police said the drug bust was
among several over recent months, helping to remove “large quantities” of illicit drugs from the local community.
Sgt Pelgrim said the weekend’s seizure at around midnight Saturday, occurred in Murphy Street.
“Officers patrolling the CBD observed a man in a car outside a hotel, ...we’ve been seeing a pattern of high drug activity, near the hotel and ATM in recent months,” he said.
“They spoke to the
occupant and searched the vehicle and located a significant quantity of two types of drugs of dependence.
“An amount of cash was also located and seized.
“And two mobile phones were also seized as evidence.”
“The man was arrested and his hotel room was searched and further significant quantities of the drugs of dependence were located.
Sgt Pelgrim said the 37 year old Altona man
A FREE Easter Fun Day o ering heaps of family activities including an Easter egg hunt will be hosted by the Wangaratta Baptist Church on Easter Saturday, March 30 at Apex Park.
The Easter Fun Day follows the success of six free family fun days staged by the church over the last 18 months, which Pastor Aaron Wardle said had been great community-building events.
“So many families are struggling with the cost of living, and so what a great opportunity to bring some hope to our com-
munity; this is just another very practical way to do that,” he said.
The free Easter Fun Day will feature laser tag, an adventure tools toy workshop, face-painting, balloon animal creation, a cra activity, free sausage sizzle and hot cross buns, along with the Easter egg hunt, and will run from 10am to 2pm at Apex Park.
“We have had more than 4000 people attend our free family fun days so far, which demonstrates that there is a great need in our town for accessible things for kids and families to do which don’t cost anything, and are fun and safe, and we are thrilled to
be able to meet that need and provide everything for free, to generously bless our community,” Pastor Aaron said.
He said support from businesses including Woolworths and Coles, has helped provide sausages and bread for the event.
With Easter set to bring visitors to the Wangaratta region, Pastor Aaron said it was a wonderful chance to bring hope to visitors and locals alike.
There is no need to book for the Easter Fun Day - children, teens and families are encouraged to turn up on the day; chil-
dren do remain the responsibility of parents for the duration of the event.
The event will go ahead regardless of weather, as there is provision for cover at Apex Park.
In addition to the Easter Fun Day, Wangaratta Baptist Church is looking forward to Easter services on Good Friday and Easter Sunday, both at 10am at its church in Sisely Avenue.
For more information about the March 30 fun day, visit the Wangaratta Baptist Church Free Easter Fun Day event page on Facebook.
is facing numerous drug charges including possessing a commercial quantity of an illicit substance, as well as possessing the proceeds of crime.
The man was bailed and is to appear at Wangaratta Magistrates Court later this year.
Government urged to map agricultural values before fasttrack roll out of solar facilities
■ From front page
Under the mapping of high agricultural areas, facilities like a proposed $750 million solar development at Meadow Creek near Wangaratta could be protected if it could be established that it has high natural, agricultural or cultural values.
Proponents of the solar farm have highlighted the location of the Meadow Creek property as ideal as it’s close to transmission line infrastructure, but Prof Wintle warned against this type of approach.
He said there needs to be a greater move towards low greenhouse gas emission energy sources, but it needs to be done in a way that keeps food production areas and biodiverse areas protected.
“We are not convinced at the moment that energy development companies or the government are taking seriously the need to really carefully manage where and how we do this, and we feel there needs to be more e ort to do that,” Prof Wintle said.
He said society agrees we need to reduce carbon emissions, but it means the onus has to be put on developers to do it right.
“It might cost a bit more for developers to site facilities away from these high value biodiversity or high value agricultural lands but that’s the price we have to pay to still have functioning ecosystems or agricultural systems,” Prof Wintle said.
He said the Biodiversity Council has called on the State Government - which is responsible for a lot of the land management decisions - to invest properly in the mapping of the biodiverse land that has high natural, agricultural and cultural land values.
“We need those resources in place so we can make informed decisions about where we should site renewable energy projects and we need to do it quickly,” Prof Wintle said.
“We need MPs to stand up and say we’re going to put the people on the ground so they can inform developers to then make good choices about the types of land they submit proposals for.”
ABOUT 35 people took part in a ‘What to Know Before You Go’ workshop at The Terrace retirement village on Tuesday, which encouraged locals to consider how they would like their end of days to look.
Supported by the State Government’s ‘Connecting Carers in Their Community’ funding, through Open Door Neighbourhood House, the session was led by End Stage Matters, endof-life specialists offering empowerment, education and support for dying well.
Rose Sexton and Nicole Parker from End Stage Matters aim to help people explore death, and plan for reaching the end of life with grace, ease and dignity.
The intention of Tuesday’s workshop was to assist participants to approach the reality of death and feel prepared, thus helping to remove some of the fear and stress around death not only for the person but for their loved ones.
Rose and Nicole highlighted some of the ways people could prepare for death, including advance care planning; rituals which allow the community to grieve; funeral
BY SIMONE KERWIN skerwin@ nemedia.com.au
planning and the options available; preparing wills; and considering their digital legacy and emotional legacy.
“Death is a normal part of our lives, and the one thing we can be sure is going to happen,” Rose said.
“Sometimes we need those social disruptors to poke the bear and say, ‘Think about it’.”
Participants had the chance to discuss these big issues in small groups, to gather resources they could use to make their choices, and also enjoyed lunch as part of the event.
Tanya Grant from Open Door Neighbourhood House said discussions with carers had highlighted the need for the ‘What to Know Before You Go’ workshop.
“It’s not an easy subject, but the session was really well-received, and the feedback has been really positive,” she said.
Peter Kenyon, manager of The Terrace retirement village, said the session was a great opportunity to support people with ageing well in Wangaratta.
VISITORS to the funfair at the Wangaratta Showgrounds on March 15 were kept well fed by the Rapid Relief Team, as the community turned out to meet the men and women who respond rst when emergencies strike.
The funfair was held to celebrate the launch of the Pangerang mobile community hub, with local emergency services and personnel from Victoria Police, Country Fire Authority, Australian Red Cross and other organisations in attendance.
The event sought to bring the community, rst responders and
emergency management specialists together to share information about what to do in an emergency or evacuation.
Rapid Relief Team local team leader Je Grace said the RRT was proud to support a great event with an important purpose.
“There have been many emergencies across Victoria in recent years, as we have just seen with the bush res in the state’s west,” he said.
“Events like the funfair help keep the community informed about emergency situations and can save lives.
“The RRT supports rst responders through all types of emergencies so it was a good opportunity for us to broaden our knowledge.
“A good funfair needs a good feast, and that’s our speciality.
“We served up more than 200 RRT beef nachos and wraps, and our 15 volunteers, including myself, had a great time doing it.
“We take pride in being able to help the people who put their lives on the line to save others.
“Usually, we’re serving up meals as an emergency takes hold, so it was nice to be a part of
a fun event for the community.”
More than 1000 people attended the free community event which featured live music, entertainment, other food stalls and information about evacuation centres the mobile community hub’s role.
The Rapid Relief Team is the charitable arm of the Plymouth Brethren Chistian Church.
Established in 2013, the RRT has more than 14,500 volunteers around the world who support community events and assist emergency services in times of disaster and crisis by providing meals and other support.
INTO Our Hands Community Foundation (IOH) has surpassed the signi cant milestone of awarding more than $1.5 million in grants to support 246 community organisations across North East Victoria.
Executive o cer Peter McCabe said the achievement underscores IOH’s unwavering commitment to foster-
ing community recovery, strength, and resilience in the region.
“Reaching this milestone is a testament to the enduring spirit and dedication of our community,” he said.
“We are immensely proud to have played a role in empowering local initiatives and supporting the vital work of organisations working tire-
lessly to improve the lives of North East Victorians.”
Established in response to the ongoing needs of rea ected communities, IOH was allocated $1 million from the Victorian Bush re Appeal Funds.
Since its inception in 2012, the Wangaratta-based IOH has been dedicated to supporting community and non-
pro t organisations in the local government areas of Alpine, Indigo, Mans eld and Wangaratta.
It’s annual annual grant program has provided 246 grants, to the average value of $6232.76, with 48 grants valued at more than $10,000, and the largest grant provided being $48,922.
Mr McCabe said these
grants have been instrumental in revitalising communities and empowering local initiatives.
“Through our annual grant program, we have witnessed the transformative impact of community-led initiatives rsthand,” Mr McCabe said.
“Our commitment to North East Victoria remains steadfast as we continue to work
alongside volunteers, donors, and community leaders to establish locally led, community funds which work towards building a brighter future for North East Victoria.”
To nd out more about IOH or for information about establishing a Community Fund contact Mr McCabe 0466 252 866 or go to intoourhandsfoundation.com.au
ANGIE’S Angels, a Wangaratta-based sub-fund of Into Our Hands Community Foundation, is making a significant difference in the lives of young people facing adversity.
Established in March 2023, Angie’s Angels recently assisted a family following a referral from the Borinya Wangaratta Community Partnership school.
Co-founder Lou Pomponio said the charity provided much-needed support during an extremely difficult time.
“We provided support to a family who was coping with the loss of their mother to cancer and subsequent challenges following the father’s diagnosis of cancer shortly after,” he said.
After a further referral from North East Health’s Palliative Care unit, Angie’s Angels was able to provide a family with financial assistance to purchase a child’s school computer and books, ensuring the child was able to participate fully at school despite the health challenges the family was dealing with.
Looking ahead, Angie’s Angels is excited to host a fundraising event in May, partnering with local businesses to raise funds for their cause.
A fashion show will be held on Friday, May 17 at the Da Vinci Social Club in Laceby from 6pm to 11pm.
“The event will showcase clothing ranges from four local businesses, accompanied by live music, auctions and a raffle,” Mr Pomponio said.
“Ticket are $55 per person and the dress is semi-formal.
“Tickets can be purchased at Aroma’s Café.”
As well, Mr Pomponio and fellow co-founders Julian Marotta and Tony Molinaro are embarking on walking a section of the Camino Trail in Italy this June.
The trio has personally pledged to donate $1 for each kilometre walked along the challenging 220km trail.
This inspiring journey further enhances their commitment to going the extra mile for the children they support.
FOR A LONG WALK:
“Both of these were in line with our vision of supporting families dealing with significant family health challenges while enhancing educational opportunities for disadvantaged children,” Mr Pomponio said.
To find out more about Angie’s Angels or show your support by donating, go to https://intoourhandsfoundation. com.au/fund/angies-angels/
All donations of $2 or more are taxdeductible.
VICTORIAN Minister for Roads and Roads Safety, Melissa Horne, has been asked to intervene to help address residents’ safety concerns on the Beechworth-Wangaratta Road.
Wangaratta-based state MP for Ovens Valley, Tim McCurdy, highlighted local fears in Parliament last week, seeking Minister Horne’s assistance to have
Regional Roads Victoria meet with local residents on-site to discuss improving safety of the road at Airey Lane.
“There have been many near misses at 1782 Beechworth-Wangaratta Road,” he said, having recently met with concerned residents on-site.
“I really think we should be taking this section of the road seriously, and we need
to do some work on it.
“There needs to be turning lane as the road is too narrow, and the corner needs widening, or barriers put in place.
“It is a stretch of road on which locals tell me they have actually had to tow out vehicles; they have had to do lots of things that are just near misses that never get on the record.
“I really encourage the minister to invite RRV to meet with us at that location.”
ROAD CONCERNS: Ovens Valley MP Tim McCurdy (le ) recently met with concerned residents to discuss the dangerous stretch of Beechworth-Wangaratta Road, and they’ve called on RRV to improve safety.
At Wangaratta High School, we proudly offer students various opportunities to learn a musical instrument. Music students are also involved in the various school bands; Beginner Band, Concert Band, Symphonic Band, Big Band and many other variations. There are opportunities for all.
AUTUMN’S clear sky may become a bit more hazy as authorities ramp up their controlled burns over coming weeks.
In a summer almost void of any bushfires, the only smoke we’ve had to endure so far this year was the momentary drift from the Ballarat blazes.
But autumn is increasingly becoming the critical season for controlled burnsand with it periodical smoke haze.
At this time of year weather conditions are generally more favourable for strategic fires in bushland to help reduce the risk of bushfires in the warmer seasons.
While it may be less than ideal, particularly for holidaymakers to our beautiful North East, it’s the lesser of two evils.
With the scientific community continuing to warn about the prospect of more severe summers and challenging climatic conditions, making the most of every window of opportunity to lessen risk to the community has never been more critical.
That said, the challenge is often getting the right balance.
Across the North East this season there are 111 planned burns covering almost 56,500 hectares.
Some may say it’s too much, others not enough.
In years gone by controlled burns have been of particular concern to vignerons because of the potential of smoke to impact ripening fruit and ruin a harvest.
Communication and concerted efforts by all parties has vastly reduced such impact, and with a much earlier season than normal much of the grape vintage is already in - and the risk mitigated.
The responsible delivery of the controlled burns program has never been more important, with community expectation and scrutiny higher than ever.
1. In which century did Frederick Sherwood start the Swan Brewery?
2. Which band had the 1971 hit, Get It On?
3. Sir Alec Bedser is best known for his involvement in which sport?
4. What is the northernmost capital city in South America?
5. The Amati family is famous for making which musical instrument from 1549 to 1740?
6. Which branch of alternative medicine was based upon Samuel Hahnemann’s “Law of similars”?
7. In what decade of the 18th century was the Daniel Defoe novel, Robinson Crusoe, first published?
8. Who played the role of Batman in the 2016 movie, Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice?
9. Cirque du Soleil has its headquarters in which country?
10. Which company makes Weet-Bix breakfast cereal in Australia?
11. Henri Cartier-Bresson is considered to be the father of which modern photographic style?
12. What is the main soft drink used to create a traditional Shirley Temple non-alcoholic mixed drink?
13. How many stars are on the flag of Brazil?
14. The flagship of which pirate was called Queen Anne’s Revenge?
15. Campbell’s Soup Cans is one of the best known works by which artist?
16. Which country won the 2016 Eurovision Song Contest?
17. John Symond founded which financial services group in 1992?
18. Which two dog breeds are mated to create a ShiChi?
19. Ellyse Perry has represented Australia in which two sports?
20. Which Star Trek TV series featured the character, Kathryn Janeway?
FACEBOOK users this week commented on the hairy panic that has hit Oxley.
• VaL Am-Me: Keens Benno you should share a pic of your place.
• Keens Benno: Our B&B on the Great Alpine Rd. was buried under ‘hairy panic’. Facebook users also commented on the O’Brien Real Estate Community Easter Egg Hunt happening this
week, that will raise funds for Northeast Health Wangaratta.
• Letitia Bell: Bridie Nixon Hayley Currie some of my favourite faces x Facebook users also commented on Galen College student, Grace Jenkins, receiving the Zonta Club of Wangaratta’s Young Women in Public Affairs Award for 2024.
• Lilly Gephart: Congratulations Grace.
THE disturbing news that the State Labor Government is planning to slash funding for Victorian library infrastructure by more than half in the upcoming state budget is incomprehensible to us.
Modern libraries play an essential role in providing a free, accessible space to help people follow their interests, conduct research, prepare for work challenges, meet like-minded people, and join in enjoyable and creative community activities.
See the amazing array of services that Wangaratta Library o ers - Chronicle, March 18 ‘Library cards’ ever growing value.’
In its independent assurance report to parliament (November 2019), the Victorian Auditor-General’s O ce stated: “Council libraries play a role in council initiatives that target social problems and community connectedness, and provide access to digital resources, creative opportunities and educational programs.”
Our town is growing and will need more investment, not less, in this key public facility.
Should the State Government go ahead with its plan to under-resource regional libraries it will result in pressure being brought to bear on the already stretched budget of our local council.
We call on readers who place a high value on a well-resourced library in Wangaratta to rmly reject all proposed funding cuts to libraries.
We urge you, make your views known to our local Victorian MP Tim McCurdy, at tim.mccurdy@parliament.vic.gov.au.
Cassandra Pollock, Friends of the Wangaratta Library Action GroupI WRITE in response to Jack McNeilly’s letter (Wangaratta Chronicle, March 15).
I can’t thank you enough for your well written letter; you pointed out the sad reality of how some people in Australia are showing total disrespect for our national ag.
It’s time for governments to make it law that no other ag will ever y above the bottom of the national ag.
You are correct in pointing out the mainstream Australians are not represented in this instance.
The State Government should have corrected this.
Seeing our beautiful and historic statues being vandalised is something we never thought we would see in this country.
Who are these people?
• Toni Baloney: Marvellous xx
• Jessica Woodrow: Congratulations Miss Grace! So proud of you.
Facebook users also commented on the Buzzcut Brothers taking part in the World’s Greatest Shave.
• Candice Jones: So proud of you boys. Such a huge effort!
NOTE: Comments as they appear online, without corrections. Our follower total is Like the Wangaratta Chronicle Facebook page to have your say.
Facebook users also commented on how much
rain they measured last Thursday.
• Pamy WillsStuart: 21mm at Milawa.
• Margy Ressom: 25 in Waldara.
• Marianne Grinter: 18ml in my gauge.
• Linda Simpson: Much needed & gratefully received 22ml!
• Marg Welfare: 22ml Oxley.
• Vinnie Costantino: 22 ml.
14,731
GENEROUS DONATION:
Felmingham, accepted a donation from Wangaratta Rod and Custom Club (WRCC) members
Geo Hope, Rob Web, Thomas McKenzie, Colin Smith and president Rennae McKenzie. The $500 donation was given to the WKODC for all their support and providing catering and venue amenities for the WRCC’s rod run over the Labour Day weekend. PHOTO: Chloe
Do they come out of our schools and universities?
Or are they a select group who do not love Australia?
Something is seriously wrong.
Pat Chick, WangarattaI AM continuing to push for investment and future proo ng of Wangaratta Hospital (Northeast Health Wangaratta), by inviting Premier Jacinta Allan to visit and see the need for space to expand.
If Premier Allan came to Wangaratta, she would see the investment that is needed in the health system.
Northeast Health Wangaratta is a growing hospital, and with the increasingly prevalent mergers and funding shortfalls in some of the other regional hospitals, it is important that we keep the big ones in tiptop shape.
We need to ensure the future of the hospital by planning ahead to vacant green eld sites.
I have spoken before about the need for room to grow, and how the current site is a postage stamp in comparison to the room we need.
The only way to expand now is up, and that involves shutting down wards and ripping beds out to put new ones in.
The current building has been in the same location since the 1870s and has served the community well.
However, we need to plan for the future, not just the next decade, but the next 100 years, and we need to nd the best location to open up access and expansion in the years ahead.
Tim McCurdy, MP for Ovens ValleyVICTORIAN Treasurer Tim Pallas can’t be trusted when he suggests the Allan Labor Government is considering reforms to stamp duty.
Just weeks ago, Mr Pallas rejected repeated calls by the Liberals and Nationals to reform the tax, claiming a transition to a yearly land tax would cost the budget $30 billion.
Furthermore, last month Premier Jacinta Allan ruled out transitioning from stamp duty to land tax, stating the idea “is not before the government through this budget process”.
The Liberals and Nationals have taken stamp duty reforms to the last two state elections, as the tax continues to distort the housing market, in ate prices, and disproportionately hurt rst home buyers who do not have existing equity.
The Liberals and Nationals continue to call on Labor to stop their addiction to taxes.
Brad Rowswell, Shadow Treasurer
FOREST Fire Management Victoria (FFMVic) is taking advantage of favourable weather and forest conditions in the North East to conduct controlled burns to reduce the risk of bush res on the community and environment.
In the past week FFMVic has conducted a 5.89 hectare fuel reduction burn at Bowmans Forest (Taylors Gap) and a 150 hectare fuel reduc-
OUTSTANDING community service by paid and volunteer members of Victoria’s emergency service agencies is set to be recognised through the Rotary Districts of Victoria Emergency Services Community Awards (VIC-RESCA).
In keeping with Rotary’s motto of ‘service above self’, the awards acknowledge and celebrate the selfless community service of emergency services personnel - performed above and beyond their normal role within their emergency service agency.
RESCA will also support a research scholarship investigating mental health in emergency services personnel, with further research looking at in-depth ways to alleviate the mental health burden on emergency service workers.
The RESCA-VIC awards consist of two levels:
Finalists – from Victoria emergency services (Ambulance Victoria, St John Ambulance, Fire Rescue Victoria, Forest Fire Management, Life Saving Victoria, Victorian Council of Churches, Triple Zero Victoria, Emergency Management Victoria, Emergency Recovery Victoria, Inspector General Emergency Management o ce, CFA, State Emergency Service, Victoria Police and Red Cross).
Two major winnersRESCA Vic O cer of the Year serving in a volunteer capacity; and RESCA Vic Ofcer of the Year serving in a paid capacity.
Anyone can nominate a person for the awards (selfnominations are not accepted), and guidelines are set out at https:// www.vic. rescawards.org.au/awardscriteria.html
The two major winners will be invited to the national awards event at Government House in Canberra, where two national winners will be announced.
Nominations are now open via: https://resca. awardsplatform.com and close on April 30.
tion burn at Carboor Upper (Pettifers Road, 9.5km south west of Carboor).
FFMVic deputy chief fire officer, Aaron Kennedy, said planned burning is one of the key tools firefighters use to reduce the size, intensity and impact of bushfires.
“As we have seen already this year, out of control bushres can have a signi cant impact on people, property
and the environment if started under the wrong conditions,” he said.
“Reducing fuels such as grass, leaves, bark, shrubs and fallen branches means res are less intense, slower to spread, and safer for reghters to control.
“Autumn is generally the best time of the year to undertake planned burns as the weather is more stable and re behaviour is man-
ageable and predictable.”
This year 111 planned burns covering an area of 56,486 hectares are prepared and ready for ignition in the North East.
Priority burns are planned in state forest, parks and reserves around Bright, Tawonga, Beechworth, Mitta Mitta, Koetong, Lucyvale, Corryong, Upper Gundowring, Marysville, Kinglake, Toolangi, Tatong, Tolmie, Ga neys
Creek and Jamieson.
“While planned burning is our most e ective tool to reduce bush re risk, in locations where planned burning isn’t suitable, we mulch, mow, slash and spray, build fuel breaks and maintain the public land road network to keep Victorians safer,” Mr Kennedy said.
He said FFMVic is made up of skilled and experienced sta from Victorian re and
land management agencies and they work with the Bureau of Meteorology to assess weather conditions, such as humidity, temperature and wind speed, and will only carry out burns when the conditions are suitable, and it is safe to do so.
Register for the latest updates about where and when FFMVic deliver planned burning at https://plannedburns. m.vic.gov.au/.
LOCAL female Victoria
SES volunteers from the Hume region recently gathered in Cobram, as part of the organisations’ ever-growing VICSES Women in Rescue (WIR) event.
A total of 40 members attended the region’s gathering including two Wangaratta volunteers, with around 250 women participating in WIR events statewide.
Established in 2018 for female volunteers, by female volunteers, WIR is a targeted training event designed to celebrate women in emergency operations, to get hands on with the tools and equipment, share rescue skills and have fun in a safe and supportive environment.
different emergencies.
Volunteers tackled various skills-based demonstrations, including a live road crash rescue simulation as well as hand tools and domestic rescue techniques.
The event also aimed to promote gender inclusion and diversity within VICSES and encourage recruitment and retention of female VICSES volunteers.
Wangaratta SES unit member, Megan Earl, said the event provided a wealth of unique opportunities to participate.
“There was not enough time in the day to fully appreciate all the opportunities, it was an amazing event,” she said.
Currently, 1652 of all 4869 VICSES’ volunteers are female, almost 34 per cent.
ZONTA Wangaratta are still seeking nominations for this year’s Zonta Club of Wangaratta’s Woman of the Year Award.
The woman should live, work or volunteer in the Wangaratta area and have done something extraordinary to benefit others outside of the framework of paid employment.
It could involve community or volunteer service, personal assistance, academic, educational or training assistance, business assistance, welfare or as an exemplary role model.
The award will comprise a certificate and a presentation to mark the achievement, and it will be presented at the club’s annual meeting on Thursday, May 2 at the Gateway Hotel to recognise a local woman’s exceptional service to the community.
Nomination details and application form can be obtained from emailing: zontwangaratta@gmail.com.
Nominations should be lodged with the Zonta Club of Wangaratta by Monday, April 1.
A variety of specialised training and exercises were set up to cover the diverse capabilities that VICSES volunteers require during a range of
To volunteer with VICSES, or for further information on what it means to be a VICSES volunteer, visit: ses.vic. gov.au/join-us.
BY ANITA McPHERSON amcpherson@ nemedia.com.au
Anew exhibition which draws from local artist Inga Hanover’s Latvian heritage and the country’s unique culture and traditions, has opened at Hyphen – Wodonga Library Gallery.
Inga said over the last decade she has been re ecting on her heritage; her family one of thousands who settled in North East Victoria via Bonegilla as World War 2 refugees in 1949.
She said in “sen mēs tev jau gaidījam (we have been waiting for you long ago)”, she has been informed by a desire to understand and preserve the ancient and enduring rituals, ceremonies and folklore of the indigenous Latvian traditions of neo-paganism and Dainas.
“Dainas (folksongs) are the primary mode of transmission of Latvian culture, dealing with two fundamental cycles - the human life cycle and the agricultural cycle,” Inga said.
“They gure prominently at birth, marriage and death, exploring the interplay between the living and the dead, and delve into superstitions of fecundity, virility and the occult.
“In 2001, the Cabinet of Dainas (Folksongs) was included in the UNESCO Memory of the World Register.
“The Cabinet of Dainas is a cabinet 160cm tall and 66cm wide in
which all of the Latvian dainas collected by Latvian folklorist Krisjanis Barons are stored.”
In this exhibition, Inga has brought together a suite of digital prints on aluminium, digital jacquard tapestries, digital prints with hand stitching on canvas, along with a video related to the textile works.
In the digital print series titled growing birches on granite hillsides, she has used archival fam-
ily photos, incorporating Latvian symbology.
“Birch trees are so essential to the Latvian - I think they are in our DNA,” Inga said.
“My family planted birches on the granite hillsides of Beechworth to remind them of the home that they ed at the end of WW2.
“In the 1960s you could always recognise where Latvians lived as there was a birch tree in the front garden.”
One symbol used in the series is Jumis, which Inga explains symbolises fertility, well-being and abundance.
“The sign represents two crossed spikes of wheat and is commonly used atop the roofs of barns and houses — bringing blessings to a home’s inhabitants,” she said.
“There are many and ornate variations of the basic sign.
“Inside the home, it hung in a room in a place of honour, and it
A POPULAR painting by local artist Susie Goodyear called ‘Speak Rodgey, Speak!’ has taken out the $500 People’s Choice award at this year’s Rutherglen Tastes of Art Prize.
Every visitor to the show, which ran from March 8 to 17, was able to vote for
their favourite artwork, and the painting of the characterful kelpie drew the greatest number.
It’s a remarkable achievement given there were more than 530 artworks on display in a wide variety of styles.
Rutherglen Tastes of Art Prize committee member Irena Webster said close to 2000 people
attended the event over 10 days and the feedback was all positive, with many visitors and artists saying they plan to return in 2025.
She said by end of the event on Sunday afternoon, a total of 65 artworks had sold.
Ms Webster thanked volunteers, sponsors, participating artists and the
public for their support, with the team now looking forward to the next instalment in 2025.
CROWD FAVOURITE: A painting called ‘Speak Rodgey, Speak!’ by local artist Susie Goodyear won the People’s Choice award at the 2024 Rutherglen Tastes of Art Prize
was also placed at the bottom of a new daughter’s future dowry.”
Textiles feature prominently in this exhibition - the artist returning to a medium she has worked in before and always explored, but never shown publicly.
She said it was deeply rooted in childhood memories of sitting beside her grandmother and mother, deconstructing worn clothes, cutting o buttons from used shirts and being taught the techniques of cross-stitch, drawn thread work and knitting - in particular, ornate Latvian mittens.
“Over the last decade I have been drawn back to the repaired and reconstructed cloth; a process that encodes the deep richness of lives lived — preserving memories and stories,” she said.
“The acts of harvesting, cutting, stitching, binding, covering and wrapping of re-used materials is very meditative and healing.
“These personal materials have marked the passage of time and are the remains of corporeal existence, and I have used these materials to create costumes for the ‘dark side of the year’ (Ķekatās – Meteņi) video.”
Inga said she was deeply grateful to the install crew at Hyphen for their patience and understanding as they brought the exhibition together, while also thanking Bronwen Garner, Tom Strachan and Ashlee Laing for their support and trust.
Inga Hanover’s sen mēs tev jau gaidījam (we have been waiting for you long ago) is open at Hyphen – Wodonga Library Gallery, until Sunday, June 9.
IT took almost three weeks, but Wangaratta’s rst and only rainfall so far this March was well received mid last week.
According to the Bureau of Meteorology weather station at Wangaratta airport, the city received 16.6mm on Wednesday and 0.2mm on Thursday - but the 16.8mm total is still well short of our median March rainfall of 42.2mm.
The heaviest local rainfalls were recorded at Falls Creek 35mms, Strathbogie 24mm and Albury 21mms.
The cold front which bought
the rain ended the well above average warm spell we’d been experiencing.
Unfortunately the colder weather didn’t bring any rain to the Melbourne suburbs.
Melbourne has only had 8mms of rainfall since the start of February.
Other very dry February to March periods in Mel-
bourne were 9.5mms in 1870, 25.6mms in 1859, 24mms in 1923, 14.5mms in 1965, 17.9mms in 1967, 24mms in 1997 and 28mms in 2004.
This year Melbourne had a wet January which also occurred in 1859, 1870 and 2004.
It was very wet at Beechworth from April to June in 1859 and 1870 and wetter than average from May 2004 onwards for most months for the rest of that year in North East Victoria.
Elsewhere this month, tropical cyclone Megan delivered heavy to ooding rains to
SERVICES Australia is reminding customers of changes to payments and services in March-April 2024 due to the Easter public holidays and Anzac Day.
All service centres, including Wangaratta (pictured), and most phone lines will close on Friday, March 29, Monday April 1 and Tuesday, April 25.
Services Australia general manager Hank Jongen said this means reporting and payment dates for some customers may change.
“It’s important to know you may need to report income early,” Mr Jongen said.
“Your Centrelink online account will show your new reporting date for the Easter reporting period.
“If you don’t have to report to get your payment, we may pay you early.
“You can nd more information about changes to services, including
places along the western side of the Gulf of Carpentaria .
Centre Island received 513mms in 48 hours which is half it’s annual average.
It’s total to date this month is 806mms.
The eye of the cyclone passed near Centre Island where wind gusts reached 170kph at 3pm last Monday, March 18.
Centre Island a er 322mms
- nearly double the annual average and the wettest January to March period in 68 years of records.
The previous wettest January to March period at Centre Island was 1568mms in 1985.
At this time we had a very warm dry March which did continue well into April 1985.
Cyclone Megan lost its intensity once it headed towards Daly Waters but heavy rain fell
this month’s heavy rain are now close to the record wet January to March of 1974.
March 1974 was much warmer than normal in Victoria just like March this year but heavy rain fell during the fourth week of March, and then late April and May 1974 very wet.
Other very wet January to March periods at Elliot and Tennant Creek were in 1885,
revised reporting and payment dates, online at servicesaustralia.gov.au/ holidays.”
Mr Jongen said customers can continue to use self-service options over the holidays.
“Our online accounts, phone self-service lines and Express Plus mobile apps will be available,” he said.
“You can still claim Medicare bene ts at the doctor’s and register as an organ donor online.
“We will continue to provide critical Medicare services for health professionals over the holidays.”
Renesme Charlotte Ann Collins was born at Northeast Health Wangaratta on Tuesday, March 19 at 2:40pm and weighed 3.57kg (7lb 13oz). She is the daughter of Jaequeline Collins and Adam Wright of Corowa.
April to June was not so wet a er these four episodes in
Fridays at 9.30am to take photos of newborns with their parents, grandparents and/or siblings.
If you would like a photo but are not at the ward at the time of visiting, you can come into Photographs are available to purchase from the Wangaratta Chronicle office.
Monday, March 24, 2014
By STEVEN BURKE
ORGANISERS were astonished at the support shown for yesterday’s Black Dog Ride, which attracted more than 200 participants.
The ride was the first of its kind held in the North East and the response to the ride which raises awareness of suicide and depression, was huge.
Some 148 riders pre-registered while organiser, Jim Redmond said there was an endless line of riders signing up on the day.
“I’m just rapt – it’s a huge response,” he said.
Money raised on the day went towards Lifeline and the organisation’s crisis support and training coordinator, Kym Shepherd was on hand as riders set out from Wangaratta Airport on their way to Lake Hume, to give them a brief
there were many out there who wanted to help raise awareness of depression.
talk about Lifeline.
“Thoughts about suicide are natural, but it’s what you do with those thoughts that matters,” Ms Shepherd said.
She told the Chronicle the turnout to the ride showed
“It shows lots of people see mental health as really important and want to put it out there,” Ms Shepherd said.
“This is a great way for people to be connected.”
Anyone experiencing depression or mental illness and in need of support can contact Lifeline on 13 11 14.
“They are coming”: residents speak out against renewable ‘prospectors’By BRODIE EVERIST
AROUND October last year
Buckland dairy farmer Bruce Lumsden was approached by a representative of a renewable energy company seeking, to his recollection, 10 hectares of land for a battery installation.
He refused the offer and didn’t think much of it until he heard of the Dederang Battery Energy Storage (BESS) proposal.
“When I heard about and read a bit about that development proposed over in Dederang I realised, hang on, he wanted to put it here
because of the high voltage transmission line going across our property,” he said.
According to the Friends of the Kiewa and Alpine Valleys group, who are campaigning against proposed battery installations in Dederang, scenarios like this have played out across the region, where representatives of renewable energy companies have been approaching landowners for battery or solar installations.
Speaking against the two BESS proposals in Dederang at last Thursday’s community meeting, group spokesperson Sharon McEvoy sand landholders in Mudgegonga,
Mount Beauty, Tawonga, Freeburgh, Whorouly, and the Buckland Valley have been approached.
Including Mr Lumsden, North East Media has spoken with four residents of the region who have been approached for a renewable energy installation.
Two more spoke at last Thursday’s meeting.
Carboor farmer Geoff Bussell said he was approached by a representative of a wellknown technology company in January, who proposed three potential sites for a solar installation on his property.
“They just walked in out
of the blue, through the gate waving,” he said.
According to Mr Bussell, he was offered $15,000 a year per site while the company was obtaining the necessary permits, then $15,000 a year per hectare for 20 years.
While Mr Bussell engaged with the man over some weeks, he said he refused the offer because of a lack of certainty over the proposal’s location and the representative’s insistent approach.
“I don’t possibly think I can go forward because they’re very aggressive,” he said.
“It’s just basically ‘you sign or we’ll go somewhere else’.”
According to the Friends of
the Kiewa and Alpine Valleys, renewables companies are attracted to the region due to its status as a Renewable Energy Zone (REZ) and they are particularly looking for sites near high voltage transmission lines.
REZs are six areas in Victoria identified by the government as having the greatest potential for renewable energy, with the Ovens Murray Zone stretching from Eildon to near the NSW border.
“These developers, prospectors, they call them, they’re the people that go out and about trying to feel people like Geoff, suck
them in, get them to sign,” group member Paul Ingram said at the meeting last Thursday week.
“They’re no longer just looking for the terminal stations like here in Dederang - they’re looking for anywhere under the powerlines.”
At the meeting Donald Crameri, who owns property near Tunnel Gap Road, said he was also approached by the same company as Mr Bussell, seeking 10 hectares for a solar installation, as well as a BESS.
“Our answer is no - we have not responded,” he said.
“I am never going to put solar on.”
SENATOR SPEAKS: Victorian Senator Bridget McKenzie spoke in Dederang.
(Le ) A LARGE CROWD: Over 200 attended the Dederang meeting, with some spilling outdoors.
THE multi-purpose room at the Dederang Recreation Reserve was again lled to bursting with over 200 attendees at the second community meeting on the Dederang Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) proposal.
Onlookers listened through open windows and stood on the balcony as campaigners and Victorian Nationals Senator Bridget McKenzie spoke against the BESS, followed by questions and statements from attendees.
The meeting follows the sudden emergence of a new BESS proposal near the Dederang substation by solar manufacturer Trina Solar.
Friends of the Kiewa and Alpine Valleys spokesperson Sharon McEvoy said they are campaigning for responsible renewables in appropriate areas, but the location of the proposed installations is not suitable.
“The Dederang BESS and now the Kiewa Valley BESS are sources of concern and uncertainty for our local community and the whole Kiewa Valley,” she said to the crowd.
“We care about the environment, the waterways and the land where we live and work.
“The government is sacricing the wellbeing of rural
BY BRODIE EVERIST beverist@
communities and natural landscapes, our sense of environments and our agricultural land in the pursuit of short term, clean energy goals.”
Ms McEvoy and fellow campaigner Paul Ingram outlined alleged risks from the proposed installations, including toxic fume emissions in the event of a re.
“The thermal runaway can still occur when batteries are shut down, and when they are fully discharged,” Mr Ingram said.
“In bush re situations, chaos can prevail.
“How will local re ghting crews and those who come from other parts of Victoria and New South Wales and beyond help ght bush res in this area if one both of these BESS are on re, and the toxic fumes they emit are in the re front mix.”
Senator McKenzie said installations like the Dederang BESS are being proposed across the state.
“I’m here to tell you that you are not alone, Dederang,” she said.
“It’s not just the State Government’s insatiable desire for renewable projects, but it is now our Federal Government’s insatiable desire for 100 per cent renewables.
“They’re refusing to discuss a sensible zero emissions fuel such as nuclear, and so it is all renewables and it is communities like Dederang that are having to pay the price up and down the eastern seaboard.
Senator McKenzie criticised Mint Renewables for their failure to send a representative to the meeting, and asked who would be responsible for cleaning up the site.
“If these guys were miners there are legislative requirements in this country to care for the environment and your social licence, you have to leave the mine site restored,” she said.
“In many cases, it’s going to be local communities and the landholder who’s le to clean up the mess in 15-20 years’ time.
“The Federal Government is very worried and I hope that
the State Government is also starting to reconsider why this was such a good idea in the rst place because it’s not going to deliver the environmental bene ts.”
Both Trina Solar and Mint Renewables opted not to attend the meeting.
A Mint Renewables spokesperson said they want to continue speaking with project neighbours, community members and groups through productive and construction discussions.
In late 2023, Mint reached out to project neighbours and the broader community to share information about the proposed project, invite feedback and o er brie ngs.
In early February 2024, they held three community information sessions in Dederang about the proposed project.
According to the spokesperson, more than 100 people attended the three sessions, which included a robust question-and-answer session responding directly to questions raised by the Friends of the Kiewa and Alpine Valleys group.
“In response to what we
heard during these sessions, we are updating our design and developing mitigation measures to ensure the project is well-informed by local knowledge,” they said.
“We will continue to be open and responsive to questions and constructive feedback.”
According to Mint Renewables, the BESS would have an operational life of around 20 years.
Decommissioning the site would involve removing all above-ground infrastructure from the site and rehabilitating the land to its original use.
In February, a spokesperson for the renewables company said they are completing detailed environmental assessments to evaluate any potential impacts and develop suitable mitigation measures as part of their planning and environmental approval process for the BESS.
“As part of this, we have engaged a re and hazard risk technical specialist to provide advice and assess re and hazard risk at the Dederang site,“ the company said.
“At Dederang, the BESS is lo-
cated at a signi cant distance from nearby dwellings, and natural air movement will be su cient to disperse smoke and gases.”
The company spokesperson also said the BESS must comply with the relevant guidelines, standards, and conditions to receive planning approval and operate in accordance with the legislation of the local jurisdiction.
The meeting follows last week’s State Government announcement to remove thirdparty appeals for renewable energy projects.
In a bid to advance $90 billion worth of developments held up in red tape, Premier Jacinta Allan last Thursday announced renewable energy projects will be eligible for an accelerated planning pathway under the Development Facilitation Program (DFP).
Under the change, all new renewable projects in Victoria will be treated as a “signi cant economic development”, removing the planning panel process and third-party appeals at Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT) and opening a pathway for decisions to be made on applications within four months.
What happened to the angry witch on her broom?
She flew off the handle!
Did you hear about the magic tractor?
It turned into a field!
What came from outer space to do magic tricks?
A flying sorcerer!
What do you call a magic owl? HOOdini!
ACROSS
1 Which elementary particle is present in every atomic nucleus (6)
7 Who holds that human knowledge is limited to experience (8)
8 Which metallic element has the symbol Co (6)
9 When one is securing indemnity in case of loss, one is doing what (8)
10 With hand on hip and elbow bent outwards, is to stand how (6)
11 Name another term for a tumour (8)
14 What are coal hods known as (8)
18 What might we call one who flees from one’s native land to escape persecution (6)
19 From which bottle is wine, water, etc, served at the table (8)
21 What is a bluish purple colour (6)
22 Name an alternative term for a runaway (8)
23 What are grass-like herbs found in marshy places (6)
DOWN
1 What are bundles or parcels (8)
3 Which word implies that which is common to the whole people of a country (8)
4 What is a responsibility also known as (4)
5 Name another term for starry (6)
6 Which humans are of unusually great size (6)
2 Name an alternative term for shock (6)
Letters have a number value
12 Who accompanies an aeroplane pilot to maintain reconnaissance (8)
Some values are in the right hand cells. Create remaining values using clues in centre cells.
Letters A to Z have a number value. Some are shown in the right-hand cells. Create remaining values using clues in centre cells.
13 What are things that serve as reminders or warnings (8)
15 What, in banking, is a written order on a standard printed form (6)
16 Something dreadful or calamitous is said to be what (6)
17 What are ornamental loops in embroidery (6)
20 Which term describes a company of three singers (4)
Find the following words in the grid. They may be read in any direction, even diagonally. Some letters are used more than once.
1 ONEROUS
(a) Belonging to dreams
(b) Burdensome
(c) One-to-one
2 PIQUANT
(a) Pleasantly pungent
(b) Causing ill-feeling
(c) Pea-shaped
Build it yourself using the clues and each of the twenty-four letters once only to form ten words: five across and five down. A key word (bold clue) builds on the letter set in the grid.
CLUES:
Concentrate (5)
Documentaries (coll) (5)
Front End Module (3)
Ideal (5)
Noisy insects (7)
Past tense: do (3)
Sun (3)
Ten-legged animal (7)
Tricked (5)
Unhappy (3)
WORKSAFE is urging farmers take extra care heading into peak months for workplace fatalities in agriculture.
WorkSafe Inspector Dallas Braam advised farmers and farm workers to listen to their bodies and not shrug o the signs of fatigue.
“Fatigue a ects your decision making and when your decision making is a ected not only are you a ecting yourself, potentially, but the people you’re working with, who are usually family and friends,” he said.
“Taking a break to get hydrated, have some food, or call a friend could prevent an injury out there and you’ll be going home to see your loved ones at the end of the day – that’s the di erence.”
WorkSafe data shows March and November are peak months for workplace fatalities in agriculture, corresponding with the busy sowing and harvest seasons.
More information on the ‘It’s never you, until it is’ campaign and farm safety can be found at worksafe. vic.gov.au/saferfarms.
JUST over 1000 head of cattle were yarded at the Wangaratta Stock Exchange last Thursday for the female and store cattle sale which featured young cattle and females.
Corcoran Parker Wangaratta agent Justin Keane said the market proved to be positive with prices up on last month from $100 to $300 thanks to feature sales.
Thursday morning’s sale saw prices remain steady with Angus steers (300kg) at $4.70/kg and Angus heifers (300kg) at $3.00/kg.
“Prices were up from last month thanks to a number of feature sales that presented some quality steers,” Mr Keane said.
“The sale saw prices up from last month between $100-$300.
“Producers are sitting in a healthy position in comparison to last year with quality stock being penned at the sales which is sparking con dence in the market.
“The autumn season will determine where the market will head as we have had recent rain which is a positive, however, producers would like to see some consistency with rain events.
“ANZAC day is a very important time of year for everyone as farmers are looking for sufcient rain a er seeding which will govern outcomes leading into the autumn-winter periods.”
Cattle producer Dale Grealy runs his Kookaburra Grove property on 75 acres who has been
BY KURT HICKLING khickling@ nemedia.com.au
trading for 15 years running 40 Scott’s Angus heifers.
He presented 31 Scott’s Angus heifers and calves to the monthly sale and remained optimistic that prices would continue to remain steady.
“The market has continued to remain steady with good prices remaining consistent over the last few months,” Mr Grealy said.
“Recent rainfall and cooler overnight temperatures have become to make autumn conditions more favourable leading into the autumn period.
“The cow and calf market has remained strong along with heavy steers making a slow comeback in prices also.
“Farmers and producers are banking on rain to come through just a er ANZAC day which will set things up for the latter part of autumn and into winter.
“While overall prices remain steady, the autumn break will hinge on consistency moving forward in seeing a promising outlook on cattle prices and producers’ con dence.
“We buy stock in October and sell them on between February and March as well as buying in June to sell on between October and November.
“The market is currently in a healthy position to sell compared to this time last year.”
Moyhu Recreation Reserve Notice is given of a PUBLIC MEETING
to be held at Moyhu Recreation reserve on April 15, 2024 commencing at 7.30pm. The purpose of the meeting is to nominate no less than three (3) or more than nine (9) persons as the Committee of Management for the (Reserve Local Name) for a term of three years. The current committee’s term will expire on 5th May 2024. All positions will be declared open, and nominations will be accepted prior to or on the night.
Nominations from women, Aboriginal people, people with disabilities, young people and people from culturally diverse backgrounds are encouraged.
Further information, nomination forms and nominee declaration forms may be obtained by contacting your local Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action office or at the meeting.
For further enquiries please contact the Secretary, Michelle Wright on 0448 371 069.
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 27, 2024
Classifieds cut off:
2pm, Tuesday, March 26
THURSDAY, MARCH 28, 2024
Classifieds cut off:
2pm, Wednesday, March 27
GOOD FRIDAY, MARCH 29, 2024
NO PAPER
EASTER MONDAY, APRIL 1, 2024
NO PAPER
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 3, 2024
Classifieds cut off:
2pm, Tuesday, April 2
Please note our office will be closed
GOOD FRIDAY and EASTER MONDAY and will re-open as usual
Tuesday, April 2 at 9am
Wishing all our advertisers and readers a safe
Easter Break
1 black male and 2 ginger female Cavoodle puppies for sale, in Rutherglen, microchipped/ vet check and 1st vax, ready for new homes, Breeder Source no MB208182, Microchip numbers: 900164002282604, 900164002282591, 900164002262606. Phone Greg 0400 831 590.
FERRETS pets or worker, 12 weeks old, $30 each. Ph 0427 216 245.
Full-Time
MUST have MR licence and forklift licence
Candidate needs to be physically strong and reliable, $27/hr
References required
Please contact (02) 6041 3028
Classroom Teaching Position available. Full time Fixed term contract till the end of year with possibility of ongoing.
Are you an enthusiastic teacher looking to work in a small school environment in the beautiful King Valley. The position is for our senior classroom, instructing 19 delightful students. You will be working with a dedicated team of teachers, support staff and parents. We provide ‘exceptional educational experiences’ and value respect, empathy and curiosity. Applications are invited now.
For more information
Tel: 03 5729 8286 or 0407 827 789 or visit Recruitment online, job number 1406849
MARKS Mowing, reasonable prices, ride on mowing, edging, clean up, spraying and any waste removal. Ph 0472 603 156.
PAINTER. Ovens and King Painting Service, trade qualified, over 25 years experience, Interior/exteriors, for free quote phone Cherime Demaj 0422 778 257 or 5721 5482.
WHEELER
Earthworks, available for all your earthworks needs - yard clean ups, stump removals, driveways, material supply and spreading, and more. Call Marcus on 0491 094 545
E-mail: whitfield.ps@education.vic.gov.au
Website: www.whitfieldps.vic.edu.au
Outside School Hours Care Coordinator
A position exists at Glenrowan Primary School as their Outside School Hours Care Coordinator. The successful applicant must be qualified (or working towards) the minimum Diploma of Childrens Services standard (or equivalent).
The position is for Monday to Thursday 3pm to 6pm, or as negotiated. Some work in school holidays would also be available.
Position description available by emailing glenrowan.ps@education.vic.gov.au
For further information contact Principal Karly Duncombe 5766 2221
Closing date Monday, April 8, 2024
Full-time
About Us: Brown Family Wine Group is one of Australia’s most loved and respected wine companies built on over 130 years’ experience in quality winemaking, market leading innovation and family values that are at the heart of everything we do as a business.
Our portfolio has grown over time to now include market leading wine brands such as: Devil’s Corner from the East Coast of Tasmania, Tamar Ridge and Pirie from Tamar Valley Tasmania, Innocent Bystander from the Yarra Valley and of course Brown Brothers from Milawa Victoria the spiritual home of our business.
About the role: Reporting to the Head of Supply Chain the main responsibilities of this role include:
Lead the strategic procurement process for all material suppliers and key supply partners across the business.
Develop and maintain relationships with suppliers of all key materials and supply partners and be responsible for the administration and negotiation of supplier agreements including reviews, tenders, contracts and SRM.
Lead and manage the Pre Production team to ensure all work is carried out in alignment to our Supply Chain values including safety, people, quality, service and cost.
Oversee broader Pre Production team responsibilities of Packaging Development and Quality Assurance to maintain an efficient and effective flow of materials into Packaging.
About you: The successful candidate will have specialist knowledge of procurement concepts, processes, activities, and contract management. You will have a degree or ASCI qualified, with procurement, supply chain management or logistics accreditation. You will also have:
• Strong negotiation skills with the ability to communicate professionally and effectively at all levels of the business
• Demonstrated ability to work as part of a team, use initiative and lead teams in a collaborative manner
• Advanced analytical interpretation and problem solving skills
• Sound knowledge of ERP/MRP principles and purchasing processes
• Preferred experience within the wine industry or FMCG business
• Demonstrated knowledge and proficiency in PC-based applications (such as Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint, Word and/or Access)
• Skills and values consistent with our company values.
Current drivers’ licence.
What’s on Offer:
• Work within one of Australia’s leading wine companies
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days,
leave,
2024
HAY Liner 68, New Holland, new tyres VGC, $4400. Ph 5726 9224, Peechelba.
CARAVANS & CAMPERS
CONNORS, Kay.
wanted
WANT to buy Toyota HiAce Camper Van and Small Caravan. Call Brendan 0402 113 112.
2010 NT Pajero Platinum 3.2 L turbo diesel, 253,400km, reg Dec ‘24 (ZQJ384), bull bar, driving lights, redarc brake controller, UHF, aux 120 AH AGM battery, BC DC charger, rear suspension airbags, full service and maintenance history, $17,000. Ph 0417 751 534.
2018 Toyota Fortuner in excellent condition for sale, 148,000km, driving like new, dealership serviced with history available, $36,000 ONO, reg (1NM6IH). Call Tim 0400 573 387.
PLANTS and trees all $2, lots of tools, plant stands and plenty more, all has to go, 2 Lucas Street, Wangaratta. Ph 0484 297 122.
STIHL 441 Chainsaw, 70cc, in excellent condition, $900. Ph 0427 216 245.
Passed away March 26, 1997.
Much loved and missed, but remembering all the great times. Love always. - Max, Lynda, Bec and
DEATH NOTICES
POVSE, Rose Maree.
Passed away at Royal Melbourne Hospital on Sunday, March 17, 2024. Aged 67 years.
Loved wife of Milan. Loving mother of Fiona and Grahame. Sister of Heather, Margaret, Verna, Ken, Anthony, Neil, David (dec) and Fred (dec). Gone but not forgotten.
POVSE
The funeral service for Mrs Rose Maree Povse will be held in the Mason Park Chapel, 95 Mason Street, Wangaratta on Wednesday, March 27, 2024 at 10am. Burial will follow at the Eldorado General Cemetery.
Mason Park Funerals 5721 5060 masonpark.com.au
WANGARATTA’S future footy stars will certainly look the part this year, with Wangaratta Auskick Centre suppling new jumpers for the kids to play in at halftime of senior matches.
The jumpers, ttingly split between Wangaratta Magpies’ black and white and Wangaratta Rovers’ brown and gold, were supplied through Bendigo Bank’s Connected Community Wangaratta initiative, replacing the dated jumpers previously worn.
The jumpers will get their rst use this Friday night, at half-time of the blockbuster Wangaratta Derby between the ‘Pies and Rovers at Norm Minns Oval.
Wangaratta Auskick Centre president Ben Watts said the committee was extremely grateful for the support, and the kids were eager to run out onto the ground.
“They (Connected Community Wangaratta) try to support local community organisations and asked if there was anything they could o er or support Wangaratta Auskick with, and it went from there,” Watts said.
“The jumpers we’d been using at di erent halftime games with Wangaratta (Magpies) and Rovers were a little bit dated, so it worked in that we thought it was a good idea to look at some new jumpers for the kids to wear with di erent opportunities coming up over the next couple of
years for them to wear it.
“We went through the process, had Paulie’s Corner jump on as a sponsor for those jumpers as well, which has been really well received by our Auskick community.”
Watts said the Good Friday Derby under lights would be an amazing experience for the Auskickers.
“It’s a big blockbuster match, half-time under
lights, the kids will probably kick o at 7pm,” he said.
“Most kids would be keen, some would be down there watching it anyway, so we thought it would be a good time to get the jumpers sorted.
“We’d love to have two games set up, we’d be looking for at least 40, that would be great, we could get a couple of games going, get the kids around
with a big crowd.
“The clubs de nitely support the kids with high ves and stu like that.
“We’re looking at at least ve (half-time matches through the season) – there are chats with both clubs going on at the minute, but in an ideal world we’ll play both of the derby matches.”
While the start of the Auskick season is still a fair way off, registrations
are now open.
“We’re actually tracking a little bit ahead of where we were this time last year,” Watts said.
“We’re lucky Wangaratta is in the top two largest Auskick centres in the state, so we’re ticking along quite well with numbers.
“Auskick’s rst week is Sunday, April 28, so still plenty of time to register.
“One of the big things
we did last year was our all-girls o ering, and it’s looking like we’ll get record numbers for that again.
“Anyone that’s keen to come along and understand footy, we’re happy to have them along.”
For more information about Auskick or to register, visit Wangaratta Auskick on Facebook or head to www.playhq.com/a /register/f9c8641.
YARRAWONGA Mulwala’s dominance over the last decade continued over the weekend, taking out the 2023/24 A grade premiership.
BY WILLSON MACK wmack@ nemedia.com.au
to 6/21, before being rolled for just 50, 74 runs short of their target.
Yarrawonga Mulwala wicketkeeper and opening batter Reid Clarke was elated with the win.
our batting innings on Saturday not happy with how we went but we knew we were still a chance.
A er putting just 123 on the board, not many would’ve seen the Lakers as a chance of beating Rovers United Bruck, however, a near perfect bowling display got them over the line at Wangaratta’s Barr Reserve on Sunday.
The Hawks had an absolute nightmare with the bat and quickly slumped
“It’s unbelievable, just such a good feeling,” Clarke said.
“We walked away from
“We knew that our best with the ball was good enough to defend that total and in the end it was.”
At 8/68 it wasn’t looking like Yarrawonga Mulwala would reach triple gures,
however a rear-guard display from Adam Dodd (30), James Irvine (10) and Matt McCabe (13) saw the Lakers limp to 123.
“We had faith in our lower order even though they haven’t had to do much with the bat all year because our top order has fired,” Clarke said.
“We knew that it was inevitable that they’d have to bat and that came in the grand nal and they all did an unbelievable job.
“Adam Dodd and James Irvine put on a 30-run partnership and we nished the day with a bit of momentum.
■ Continued page 18
