Protecting
LOCAL educators hope planned legislation around social media age limits will send an important message to the global companies running platforms like Instagram, Facebook and TikTok.
The Federal Government has promised to introduce legislation by the end of this year aimed at imposing a minimum age for use of
BY SIMONE
KERWIN skerwin@ nemedia.com.au
social media apps; work is still to be undertaken on age verification technology before an entry age is set.
In the lead-up to the legislation’s development, Instagram last week launched ‘teen accounts’,
which are aimed at making the app safer for young people by limiting who can contact them and the content they see.
Galen Catholic College principal Darta Hovey welcomed this change as “an important step forward”.
Mr Hovey said he hoped the government could ensure restrictions in place as part of its planned
legislation were “watertight” to ensure the protection of young people.
“The most important asset in our community, going forward, is our children,” he said.
He said he felt the discussion needed to include gaming outlets, which also presented potential risks for young people playing online,
saying the issue extended beyond phone use.
DAY TO REMEMBER
BROOKE Henwood was part of the Magpies’ C grade netball premiership, while Will Nolan and his Rovers teammates brought home the Ovens and Murray’s senior footy flag. Their remarkable story (page 4) and your free O&M premiership posters for seniors, reserves, thirds and C grade netball are all in today’s Chronicle.
Wangaratta High School executive principal Dave Armstrong, who spoke to the Wangaratta Chronicle earlier this year about the significant distraction smartphones posed for teenagers, said he was pleased the issue was on the agenda.
“I think something’s got
to change, and I recognise the sentiment within the discussion that something needs to happen,” he said. However, he said he feared a ban on young children using social media was too simplistic, and that the issue needed to be “pushed further upstream to social media companies”.
■ Continued page 2
Wednesday, September 24, 2014
WANGARATTA teenagers got to visit V8 Supercar team Brad Jones Racing (BJR), Blacklocks Ford and Motorsports Training Australia in Albury/ Wodonga last week.
Students from Wangaratta High School (WHS), Galen College, Borinya and Wangaratta District Specialist School, together with Bright and Benalla students, enjoyed an in depth session with local motorsport legend Brad Jones.
He discussed the
expectations of being employed in this ultracompetitive industry, and shared aspects of his racing career.
Students were also able to ‘pick the brains’ of the many varied professional tradespeople employed at BJR, as part of their workplace learning automotive studies through The Centre in Wangaratta.
WHS student Rob Newton said it was amazing being at BJR seeing the cars, and the set up made him want to go on and work there.
Students also visited Blacklocks Ford where
they were run through what different roles are available in a large vehicle dealership.
They also visited the new facilities and campus at Motorsports Training Australia (MTA) at Barnawartha, where they were able to learn about the exciting pathways that are on offer and to see how the facilities are aligned to the requirements of the Australian Motor Sports and automotive industry.
Local Workplace Learning coordinator Shane Crispin said the day was an annual event that is well supported by these employers.
■ From page 1
“We’ve got to find a way of holding social media companies to account, because what’s in their apps is harmful to society,” he said.
“These social media companies are now bigger than sovereign states and can have an impact on society, ranging from how we engage with each other to influencing democracy.
“I think we’ve got to be better at putting higher expectations on these companies and what it is they allow and support being on their platforms.
“I do support a ban, and I think it might put the onus on the companies, but I also recognise the difficulties that come with how the government will do that.”
Cathedral College Wangaratta principal Nick Jones said addressing privacy issues surrounding age verification would be among the wrinkles to be ironed out through the legislation’s development, and Mr Hovey agreed, saying he would like to see “the devil in the detail” of how this would be achieved.
“However, technology is moving so fast that I think we can find a way to do that,” Mr Jones said.
He said he believed 15 or 16 would be an appropriate age for young people to start using social media apps.
“By year 10, they have developed the understanding and maturity to make good choices,” he said.
He supported moves to introduce an age limit - “as long as it’s targeted at social media companies rather than young people”.
“From what I see and hear, parents and the community are looking for support in this space,” he said.
“It will be important to make sure the age verification process is thorough, and that the focus is on these large companies, not on punitive measures against young people.”
Mr Jones said the images young people could access online should be subject to a similar process as television programs or movies, to protect them from inappropriate content such as pornography.
“Morality and values can really be challenged if students are looking at this kind of content,” he said.
The most important asset in our community, going forward, is our children.
I think we’ve got to be better at putting higher expectations on these companies and what it is they allow and support being on their platforms.
Advice from a digital media use expert
By SIMONE KERWIN
DEON Tullett-Prado, a provisional psychologist at Gateway Health’s psychology clinic, is a PhD student at Victoria University, working with the cyberpsychology group investigating problematic digital media use such as video game and social media addiction.
He offered the following advice to families regarding young people’s social media use:
“Social media is one channel for social connections, which is important in contributing to a positive mental state, especially for those who are socially anxious, those who feel alone or those who feel isolated.
“However, it is important
All three principals said it was important to continue to educate not just young people, but their parents and carers about both the negative and positive sides of social media use.
“Education is always going to be the aim, working hand-inhand with any legislation implemented by the government,” Mr Jones said.
“Young people have good ideas about how they can continue to engage on social media, and
to remember social media is a facsimile of real social connection and it is addictive.
“The older you are when exposed to an addictive substance, the less likely you are to get addicted.
“For anyone concerned about their child’s use of social media, we recommend they be proactive.
“Use parental controls, limit screentime and the places to use them, and don’t give them a smartphone.
“To promote positive outcomes, it is important to promote positive things, so encourage real replacements like playing games as a family, cooking together, engaging in sport.”
we need to listen to them; they are the digital natives, after all.
“We also need to remember that we are the adults in the room.
“If we all work together, we can find solutions.”
Mr Armstrong said parents and carers should be reminded and feel confident that they had control in what could often feel like an overwhelming area.
“The fact that it’s come to the fore and the government is talk-
Protecting our kids
It will be important to make sure the age verification process is thorough, and that the focus is on these large companies, not on punitive measures against young people.
ing about it is helpful,” he said.
“We have to have realistic expectations of citizens, but parents can get themselves involved and make decisions.
“The longer parents can hold out on allowing their children to have a smartphone, the better their kids will be for it; I don’t know of any logical rationale that young children should have a smartphone.
“It’s a case of helping parents, and there are resources out there if they know to go looking.”
Mr Armstrong recommended parents visit https://www.esafety.gov.au/ if seeking advice around their child’s device and social media use.
Galen has been offering education for parents and carers via workshops with staff member and Teen Life coach Pat Noonan, with the most recent focusing on screen time and helping young people and teenagers become conscious users of smartphones, gaming consoles and TV streaming.
Mr Hovey said the school would continue to offer such sessions to ensure families and the wider community had access to advice.
“We’re strong about giving kids agency for their own learning, so they can fully understand the impact of their online use,” he said.
Est. 1884, Incorporating Wangaratta Despatch, Est. 1861
TROPHY TIME: Brad Jones (rear) with students (from left, back) Adam Abbas, Jake Miles, Ryan Fogarty, Matt Johnson- Begg, Robert Newton and Josh Nichols; (front, from left) Chayne Henning, Adam Poole and Angel Useini.
DARTA HOVEY
NICK JONES DAVE ARMSTRONG
Police on the trail of two offending youths
BY STEVE KELLY skelly@ nemedia.com.au
WANGARATTA police are investigating an incident where the front door of a retail outlet on Reid Street was smashed around 5am on Sunday morning.
It’s alleged that two teenagers have picked up footpath pavers on Reid Street and carried them across the road and thrown them at the glass pane of the door at the Platypus clothing store.
Acting Sergeant James McGinn of Wangaratta police said the act caused damage to the glass, but nothing was stolen as they did not gain access inside the premises.
He said police were looking to view CCTV footage which had vision that could be useful to their investigation.
Platypus management declined to comment about the incident.
Police were unable to confirm whether this damage was linked to a spate of incidents where Wangaratta business premises were damaged earlier this month.
Break-ins were attempted on September 5 at about 5.20am at North East Float and Motion, on September 9 at about 2am at Madem Espresso, on September 11 at about 4am at Lavish Hair and Beauty, and September 12 shortly after 3am at Tangled Up Hair and Beauty.
If anyone has any information on the latest incident or these previous incidents they are urged to contact Wangaratta police on 5723 0888.
Power interruptions are expected with works on Inland Rail project
INLAND Rail will carry out a series of powerline works to create extra clearance at multiple locations in the Rural City of Wangaratta between September 30 and October 31.
The locations of works include areas along Sandford Road, Stamps Lane, Rutherglen-Springhurst Road, and Railway Road at Springhurst.
An Inland Rail spokesperson said to enable the safe running of double-stacked freight trains additional height clearance between the rail and powerlines is
required in some locations along the North East rail line.
“To achieve this, McConnell Dowell will replace or extend some power poles and cables in the specified areas to create the required clearance,” he said.
Works will occur between 7am-7pm intermittently between September 30 and October 31.
Traffic management and reduced speeds will be in place during some works, which may cause traffic delays.
Trucks and other vehicles
entering and exiting construction sites, may cause minor traffic delays.
There will be construction of hard stand work areas on the roadside, and heavy machinery and equipment operating onsite.
Delivery of materials and equipment will take place and any directly affected properties will be notified by AusNet if interruptions to power supply are expected.
Water carts will be onsite to wet down areas to assist in managing dust and traffic controls will be in place, where required.
VEHICLE STOLEN: Police are seeking public assistance after they believe this vehicle was stolen from Shanley Street on Friday. Police
POLICE are seeking public assistance for the whereabouts of vehicle stolen in Wangaratta last Friday.
Police believe a Holden SUV was stolen from a business premises in Shanley Street. If you have seen the vehicle, know it’s location or have any information that would assist police, please contact Wangaratta Police Station on (03) 5723 0888 or Crime Stoppers 1800 333 000 or at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.
QUICK FIX: The glacier applies the silicon in readiness for a new pane of glass to replace that smashed in a business in Wangaratta’s CBD on Sunday.
PHOTO: Steve Kelly
Couple’s rare premiership feat
Rovers’ Will Nolan and Magpies’ Brooke Henwood
BY SIMONE KERWIN skerwin@ nemedia.com.au
It’s a sporting love story that would not be out of place on the silver screen…
Shortly after Brooke Henwood won her first netball premiership with her Wangaratta Magpies teammates in Sunday’s Ovens and Murray C grade grand final at Lavington, she got word that the Wangaratta Rovers team featuring her partner, Will Nolan, was leading Yarrawonga in the senior football grand final on the adjoining oval.
Having snatched a glimpse of the first couple of minutes of the footy before focusing on her own game, where she shot 15 goals in the ‘Pies’ 37-25 victory over Wodonga Raiders, Brooke managed to catch the end of the Hawks’ thrilling march to the flag.
Thus, not only did the couple achieve the rare feat of winning dual premierships at the same venue on the same day, they did it at virtually the same time - and for clubs which are traditionally diametrically opposed.
Both were drought-breaking wins; the ‘Pies had not won a C grade flag for 12 years and Brooke was part of the nucleus which had weathered some lean years, while the Rovers had waited three decades for their premiership, and Will was among those who had hung in through the Hawks’ tough times.
Last time the Rovers saluted in the senior footy grand final, Will’s dad, Mark, was a member of the premiership side; exactly 30 years later, the long-sought success came in a season during which Will had notched his 100game milestone for the Hawks - in a Good Friday derby against the ‘Pies.
Add to that the fact that
Brooke grew up spending weekends on one side of Golf Links Lane at the Norm Minns Oval where dad Craig played cricket for Wangaratta-Magpies and brother Ben won a thirds footy premiership in 2011, while young Will was steeped in his family’s Rovers tradition on the other side of the lane at the WJ Findlay Oval.
You simply couldn’t script it any better.
Brooke said she and Will attracted plenty of banter about their opposing club allegiances, most often Wangaratta’s older generations.
“Among younger people, a lot are friends and don’t think about who follows which club, but the older generation tell us that back in the day it was tense,” she said.
Will said he’d seen the rivalry still alive at derby games, though, when teammate Tom Boyd, a
teacher, was often ribbed at huddles by his Magpie-supporting students.
He said he and Brooke had grown accustomed to comparisons with Romeo and Juliet (the Shakespearean ‘two households, both alike in dignity’ in this case being footy clubs rather than families).
Their union has withstood such teasing - though neither is likely to ever cross the lane and switch clubs.
“I love the (Magpies) girls; we spend six hours or more together on Saturday, and two nights a week at training, as well as lots of texting in between, I enjoy playing with them,” Brooke said.
Will said the deep Nolan connection to the Hawks meant he “would have been disowned” if he played anywhere else, but he had never looked to leave Wangaratta and loved the Rovers, so he was happy there - particularly as a premiership player.
With their flags spaced 30 years apart, Will said he and Mark were looking forward to attending reunions together.
“He always used to say I’m a better player but he was a premiership player - but now…,” he said.
Mark was one of two 1994 premiership Hawks who passed the baton to their sons on Sunday, with Alex Marklew becoming a third generation Rovers flag hero, following in the footsteps of dad Rick and grandfather Roly (1960, ‘71 and ‘72).
“It’s pretty good to look back on,” Will said.
Meanwhile, Brooke said the Magpies’ success in C grade netball and with their first reserves footy flag since 1985, as well as having the thirds footballers contest the grand final against the Rovers, had been exciting for the club and its supporters, and she’d loved being part of it.
“The crowd around the netball court was so loud - they were definitely our eighth player,” she said.
“It’s great for Wangaratta, too, to have so many teams involved.”
Indeed, the under 17 Rovers netballers also represented the city on grand final day at Lavington, and the records show that Sunday was the first time in league history that all three football flags have ended up in Wangaratta - surely a boon for local sport, and for the endurance of the rivalry between these two feuding houses.
COLLECTING THE SILVERWARE: Will Nolan and Brooke Henwood celebrate their respective premierships on Sunday afternoon.
Ambulance union has secured in-principal agreement
THE Victorian Ambulance Union (VAU) has reached an in-principal agreement on a new deal including wage increases ranging from 17 to 33 per cent over four years and conditions to reduce burnout.
The settlement was shared with members yesterday following negotiations that have been ongoing between the VAU, Ambulance Victoria and the government since February 2023.
The terms include a 16.98pc (compounded) wage increase for most positions, and more than 20pc (compounded) for experienced paramedics, and an additional $12,500 relativity uplift for MICA paramedics, delivering overall increases of up to 33pc.
There would also be a new $5 per hour availability allowance for rural ambulance community officers who volunteer their time in their hometown to provide a response in remote areas.
Other improvements have
been agreed to in-principle around clinical instructor allowances, unsociable shift allowances, on call allowances, reserve/ flexibility allowances, and travel allowances.
To reduce being forced to work overtime at the end of shift paramedics will not be sent to lower acuity cases in the last hour of shift
Paramedics will be taken out of service at the end of their shift and will only be contacted for confirmed life-threatening emergencies.
Some 84 additional communications staff would assist with end of shift management and support crews on road.
More than 80 other improvements to conditions of employment would include access to single days off, improved meal break provisions, improvements to health and safety, the right to disconnect, better allocation to rural branches, assisted reproductive treatment leave, and organ and bone marrow donation leave.
CRAFTS GALORE: Among the many stalls at the market on Friday will be Birds in Focus, selling items created from images of birds.
Browse the stalls at Milawa Craft Market at Milawa Hall Friday
By ANITA MCPHERSON
MAKERS from across the region will showcase their wares during the Milawa Craft Market being held at the Milawa Hall on Friday.
The market - normally held every second month on a Saturday - is making the most of the Grand Final Eve public holiday, in the hope there’ll be more people around to come and see what it has to offer.
Committee members Carolyn Trethowan and Leeanne Finnigan were busy setting up this week with around 30 stallholders expected to attend the event.
Among the items on sale will be soaps, refurbished furniture, handmade jewellery, linen and cards, calendars and more from Birds in Focus, created from beautiful images of birds.
There is also metal garden art, eco print fibre arts, artisan foods, fruit and vegetables, dog treats, textiles, homewares and much more.
Carolyn said the market has been running for about five years and most of its merchants come from within a 100 kilometre radius.
She said there will also be a coffee van on site and a variety of refreshments available.
“One of the highlights is the Wangaratta Handweavers and Spinners who meet regularly in the hall and will have a selection of woollen garments and other knitted wares for sale,” she said.
“We will also be running a kiosk serving egg and bacon rolls, scones, sweet treats and drinks, and there will be a violinist performing during the event.”
Leeanne said funds raised from the market will go towards ongoing improvements at the hall, with plans to upgrade the women’s bathrooms and do some more work to improve the acoustics.
She said the hall, located in the heart of Milawa, was a great place to visit, with plenty of parking and lovely park out the back where families could rest and play.
The Milawa Craft Market will be held on Friday, September 27 from 8.30am to 1pm with all welcome.
Keeping our kids safe online
KEEPING young people safe online can be an overwhelming concern for parents and carers.
Particularly when you don’t feel you have as much technological knowledge as the children you’re charged with protecting, and that the field of play constantly shifts beneath your feet, the whole situation can just seem too big to navigate.
That’s often when things go awry, as the ‘fight or flight’ response kicks in and people may elect not to put guards and rules in place, and to allow children unfettered access to social media and other online content.
We all know the ‘why’ of the issue, gleaned from the advice of experts and our own social media activity: that unrestricted use is not a healthy approach.
Yet the ‘how’ is often the elephant in the room in a world where online presence is demanded.
It’s a positive step forward, then, for the Federal Government to be planning legislation which would restrict pre-teens and hopefully young teenagers from using social media before they’re ready.
While it can have positive applications - and many of our young people use such platforms innovatively for good - its insidious ability to prey on the most vulnerable in the community cannot be ignored.
As the three principals quoted in our lead story today have expressed, the hope is that this will send a powerful message to the companies which own these platforms, and drive positive change for the future.
In the meantime, we need to remember that we can work together as a community, through discussion and education, to protect that most precious resource: our children.
CROSSWORD PUZZLE
The Australian QuizNo.94
1
What is Peter Bol’s preferred distance in competition running?
(a) 200 metres
(b) 400 metres
(c) 800 metres
(d) 1500 metres
2 Who was the original presenter of the Australian TV series, Thank God You’re Here?
(a) Grant Denyer (b) Peter Helliar (c) Red Symons (d) Shane Bourne
3
One Russian ruble is subdivided into 100 what?
(a) Tetris (b) Kapyeykas
Disgust
(c) Kopeks (d) Paisas
4
Hun Sen is one of the longest-serving heads of government of which country?
(a) Cambodia (b) Vietnam
(c) Laos
(d) Myanmar
5
A galvanometer is an instrument used for detecting and measuring what?
(a) Soil erosion
(b) Wind speed
(c) Electric currents (d) Water flow
Innocent civilians always victims of war
HOW right Rosalie Treanor and Marilyn Thorpy (Wangaratta Chronicle letters) are regarding the terrible events in the Gaza Strip and now the West Bank.
People have such short memories and should remember October 7 attacks last year by Hamas.
Israel has the right to defend itself and I would ask people to remember this attack which started this whole thing.
Hamas fired the first shots.
What is happening in Gaza and the West Bank is terrible and there does not seem to be any end to it.
In wars the innocent civilians have always been the losers.
The world has such short memories; going back further the world went to hell in a handcart at the death of Princess Diana and were strongly against Camilla and it was declared she would never be Queen and here we are she has that crown on her head.
Yes, the world has lost its sense of value.
Philomena Trevor-Hunt, Wangaratta
FOI laws need to be overhauled
VICTORIA should replace its Freedom of Information (FOI) laws with more modern ‘right to information’ laws, according to a report tabled in parliament on Monday by Victorian Parliament’s Integrity and Oversight committee.
Victoria has a first-generation FOI system that requires users to ‘pull’ information out of agencies through formal requests.
This system has contributed to Victoria receiving more FOI requests per annum than any other state or territory - more than 48,000 in 2022/23.
Victoria’s current ‘pull’ FOI system is not well adapted to the functioning of modern government in the digital age.
Delays, high fees, and in some agencies, a defensive culture of refusing to release information wherever possible, have all given the current system a reputation for being impenetrable.
A key reason for Victoria’s FOI system not working is the lack of options available to the public to obtain information.
The committee’s view is that Victoria’s FOI Act should be replaced with a third-generation
6
As at December 2022, how many times has the Australian Women’s field hockey team won the gold medal at a summer Olympics?
(a) Two (b) Three (c) Four (d) Five
7 The Light That Failed was the first published novel by which author?
(a) Jane Austen
(b) Rudyard Kipling (c) A. A. Milne
(d) Louisa May Alcott
8 Which of the following is an official language of Malawi?
(a) English (b) Afrikaans (c) French (d) Dutch
9 The 2015 movie, Inside Out, follows the personified emotions of joy, sadness, fear, anger and what?
(a) Surprise (b) Disgust (c) Trust (d) Anticipation
10 In 1978, which artist won the Archibald Prize, the Sulman Prize, and the Wynne Prize?
(a) Brett Whiteley (b) Clifton Pugh (c) Fred Cress (d) Janet Dawson
‘push’ Right to Information Act consistent with best practice principles.
Under the recommended system, the public would have a right to access ‘information’, as opposed to ‘documents’, which is much better suited for the digital age.
Significantly, there will be a presumption favouring disclosure of information, with only limited exceptions to the presumption of disclosure.
Further information on the committee and the Inquiry’s report is available on its website: www.parliament.vic.gov.au/foi-report.
Dr Tim Read, Victorian Parliament’s Integrity and Oversight Committee chair
Successful Dementia Action Week
THANK you to everyone who took action to create a more dementia-friendly future during 2024 Dementia Action Week from September 16-22.
Across Australia, individuals and organisations supported our campaign to ‘Act Now for a Dementia-Friendly Future’ encouraging everyone to take simple actions to challenge the stigma and discrimination faced by people living with dementia.
This follows research released by Dementia Australia for Dementia Action Week which
found there has been a decade of persistent poor understanding of dementia among Australians leading to stigma and discrimination.
While Dementia Action Week is only one week each year, the conversation and action to eliminate discrimination continues yearround.
For information and tips on how you can continue working towards a dementia-friendly future, please visit dementia.org.au/DementiaActionWeek.
For support any time, please contact the National Dementia Helpline on 1800 100 500, 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Merran Kelsal, Dementia Australia chair
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
MINDFULLY CREATIVE: The work of artist Barbara Forster (pictured) is currently on display in the Bainz Gallery at the Wangaratta Library. Barbara loves using bold, textural and colour effects in her work and has also been exploring neurographic art, combining it with her normal painting style. See the collection on display by Barbara, Dawn Meader and Margaret Bennett during September.
PHOTO: Jordan Duursma
Re-inforcing drive for gender equality
NORTHEAST Health Wangaratta (NHW) welcomed Dr Niki Vincent, Victoria’s first commissioner for gender equality in the public sector, last Friday, as part of her regional tour.
Dr Vincent addressed NHW’s leadership team, highlighting the requirements of the Gender Equality Act 2020 and how gender equality can be woven into everyday decision-making and leadership.
NHW’s chief executive officer, Libby Fifis, said the organisation, which is Wangaratta’s largest employer with around 1600 staff, has ongoing actions to address gender inequality.
“We’re really proud of the progress we’ve made so far,” she said.
“The work we’ve done has highlighted both the improvements we’ve achieved and areas where we can still grow.”
Dr Vincent’s visit reinforced the importance of continuing this work, with Ms Fifis saying NHW is committed to further addressing gender inequality and ensuring it has a positive impact on the whole community.
“The data we’ve collected shows that we still have work to do, but we know that addressing these challenges will benefit our entire community,” she said.
“Embracing gender equality
isn’t just a legal obligation for us, it aligns closely with our core values - fairness, respect, and excellence - ensuring equitable opportunities for all and creating a supportive environment where everyone can thrive.
“By actively promoting gen-
der equality, NHW is fostering a more inclusive, supportive, and innovative workplace for all.”
More details are available on Northeast Health Wangaratta’s website www.northeasthealth. org.au.
The ultimate guide for tourists and locals
READY TO CATCH: Thousands of rainbow trout have been released into dams and lakes and are ready to be caught. PHOTO: Robbie Alexander Rainbow trout stocked for
the school holidays
MANY small lakes and dams across the North East are now brimming with rainbow trout, ready for families to enjoy the great outdoors these school holidays.
Minister for Outdoor Recreation, Steve Dimopoulos, said thousands of ready to catch rainbow trout have been released in the public waterways as part of the government’s $96 million package to improve fishing.
Minister Dimopoulos said many of the freshly stocked lakes have fishing platforms, walking tracks, barbecues and playgrounds – making it a fun and easy day out for the whole family.
“Rainbow trout are the perfect catch for beginners because they can easily be caught using widely available bait,” he said.
North East water storages stocked for the school holidays are:
Glenrowan Reserve Lake - 300 trout;
Lake Sambell Beechworth - 550 trout;
Stanley Ditch Dam - 500 trout;
King Lake Rutherglen - 200 trout;
Andrews Lake Chiltern - 500 trout;
Allans Flat Dredge Hole Yackandandah - 750 trout;
Arboretum Dam Euroa - 300 trout;
Golf Course Dam Longwood - 300 trout; and Tronoh Dredge Hole Harrietville - 500 trout.
Anglers are reminded that a daily bag limit of five trout applies, of which only two can exceed 35 centimetres.
More information about fishing can be found in the Victorian Recreational Fishing Guide which is available for free at most bait and tackle shops, online at vfa.vic.gov.au/fishingguide or via the free Vic Fishing app on your smartphone.
OUTNOW
LEADING BY EXAMPLE: NHW board chair Alison Maclean (left), commissioner for gender equality Dr Niki Vincent (centre) and NHW chief executive officer Libby Fifis are working together to promote inclusive, supportive, and innovative workplaces.
WHAT’S ON
Author visit with Sarah Barnett
AUTHOR Sarah Barnett will visit the Wangaratta Library on Saturday, October 5 at 10.30am to discuss her debut novel, The Chalice of Fortune, which pays tribute to her family’s lineage in Warwickshire.
The novel is an action-packed adventure for readers aged 9 to adult or those young at heart with an adventurous spirit.
It is a unique blend of historical fact and fiction, set at the height of World War II in England, where two young cousins come together for the adventure of their lives.
Bookings are essential via Humanitix or contact library staff on 5721 2366 or library@wangaratta.vic.gov.au.
Enjoy Milawa craft market on Friday
A CRAFT market will be held at the Milawa Hall on Friday, September 27 from 9am.
Browse a variety of stalls showcasing the work of local artists and craftspeople, with plenty to engage and entertain visitors of all ages.
yourstars
ARIES (March 21 to April 19) After much traveling this year, you’re due for some relaxed time with family and friends. Use this period to check out situations that will soon require a lot of serious decision-making.
TAURUS (April 20 to May 20) Keep that keen Bovine mind focused on your financial situation as it begins to undergo some changes. Consider your money moves carefully. Avoid impulsive investments.
GEMINI (May 21 to June 20) You’ll need to adjust some of your financial plans now that things are changing more quickly than you expected. All the facts you need haven’t yet emerged, so move cautiously.
CANCER (June 21 to July 22) Personal and professional relationships dominate this period. Try to keep things uncomplicated in order to avoid misunderstandings that can cause problems down the line.
LEO (July 23 to August 22) That elusive goal you’d been hoping to claim is still just out of reach. But something else has come along that could prove to be just as desirable, if only you would take the time to check it out.
VIRGO (August 23 to September 22) This is a good time to get away for some much-needed rest and relaxation. You’ll return refreshed and ready to take on a workplace challenge that awaits you.
LIBRA (September 23 to October 22) Confidence grows as you work your way through some knotty situations. Watch out for distractions from well-meaning supporters who could slow things down.
SCORPIO (October 23 to November 21) Consider spending more time contemplating the possibilities of an offer before opting to accept or reject it. But once you make a decision, act on it.
SAGITTARIUS (November 22 to December 21) You’re in a very strong position this week to tie up loose ends in as many areas as possible. Someone close to you has advice you might want to heed.
CAPRICORN (December 22 to January 19) Congratulations! This is the week you’ve been waiting for. After a period of sudden stops and fitful starts, your plans can now move ahead without significant disruptions.
AQUARIUS (January 20 to February
18) You’re in an exceptionally strong position this week to make decisions on many stillunresolved matters, especially those involving close personal relationships.
F iona Boyes Fiona Boyes and the Fortune Teller s are Tellers are coming to town
PISCES (February 19 to March 20) The week starts off with some positive movement in several areas. A special person becomes a partner in at least one of the major plans you’ll be working on.
sion and Tim Neal on Hammond.
also for the audience.”
By JORDAN DUURSMA
ByJORDANDUURSMA
FIONA Boyes and the Fortune Tellers are set to feature at the Plough Inn’s Tarra Blues 2 festival.
The event will run over two days, on the first weekend of November at the historic Plough Inn Tarrawingee, complementing the reinvigorated Wangaratta Festival of Jazz and Blues.
Boyes plays deep blues, influenced by a myriad of traditional regional styles and has carved an international reputation as a blues guitarist, bandleader, vocalist and songwriter.
As the winner of the International Blues Challenge in Memphis, Blues Blast Music Award winner and former Port Fairy Folk Festival Artist of the Year, Boyes will take to the stage with her long-time partners in crime, Mark Grunden on drums and percus-
Shannon Noll 20th
anniversary tour
SHANNON Noll will play at the Wangaratta Performing Arts and Convention Centre on Thursday, October 3 at 7.30pm as part of his “That’s What I’m Talking About” tour.
Fans will be treated to a high energy and nostalgic live show featuring songs from Nollsie’s historic debut album as well as hits and fan favourites across his full career catalogue to date.
The only Australian male artist in national ARIA chart history to have achieved ten consecutive top ten singles, including landmark single What About Me which was the highest selling single in Australia in 2004, get your tickets now to see Shannon Noll at www.wpacc.com.au.
Boyes said the trio have been performing together for years and it’s always a delight.
“We really feed off each other musically so it’s fun,” she said.
“Mark and Tim are both wonderfully inventive and seasoned players, it’s fresh every time we play together.”
Boyes said festivalgoers can expect a road trip through blues and America music from their set at Tarra Blues 2.
“Blues music is a wide-ranging genre,” she said.
“When I’m playing with the band we go from some very classic barrel house blues right through to Mississippi style blues which is very swampy, dirty and riff driven and played on handmade unique cigar box instruments.
“It’s not only fun for us, but
The Hoffmans at Da Vinci Club
DUO The Hoffmans will perform hits from the 50s to the 90s during a supper dance being held at the Da Vinci Social Club in Wangaratta on Saturday, September 28 at 7.30pm. Tickets include a delicious supper with drinks available at bar prices (no byo) with tickets $20 for members and $25 for nonmembers, available by calling Pip on 0409 307 606 or email dvsc.wang@ gmail.com.
After performing in the industry for three decades, Boyes has toured across 20 countries and was recently inducted into the Blues Victoria Hall of Fame.
“Over the years, I’ve played in some amazing places, but the most amazing gigs have been in smaller venues, it’s so much more intimate to be able to play somewhere you can talk to the audience and be close to the audience,” she said.
“I’ve been a professional musician for a long time, for me it’s about playing and doing your best for an audience.
“Our gig is on the Sunday afternoon which is perfect for families and kids.
“Because blues if so often considered to be a male dominated music, and certainly for me as a guitarist the blues and guitar
Lyster Opera comes to Milawa Hall
VICTORIAN regional touring opera company Lyster Opera will present a new production of Rossini’s hilarious comedy, The Italian Girl in Algiers, at the Milawa Hall on Sunday, September 29 at 2pm. The opera tells the story of the Sultan Mustafa who is obsessed with all things Italian and yearns for an Italian wife, but he gets much more than he bargained for. Featuring an ensemble cast including mezzo-soprano Alexandra Mathew as Isabella and tenor Hew Wagner as Lindoro, with beautiful sets and costumes, tickets are available at lysteropera.com.au or by calling 0410 0890 388.
scene are very blokey.
“It’s great when little girls come up and want to look at the guitars, because I never had that role model.
“I was a huge blues fan, and I didn’t start playing until my late 20s until one day I decided to have a go.
“It was hard because there weren’t other female blues guitarists in the scene at the time, so I hope this is the kind of show that is accessible and enjoyable to everyone.”
Other acts set to perform at Tarra Blues 2 festival are the Sammy Owen Blues Band, Rambal, Blues Roulette presenting “The Commitments”, Daryl Roberts, Charlie Bedford, Soli’s Blues and Blue Sunday.
To book your tickets, visit https://www.trybooking.com/ events/landing/1226013.
Twilight Laneway Market in October
THE Rural City of Wangaratta will hold a twilight laneway market in Victoria Parade in October with stalls of locally made goods, food trucks and live music.
As well as providing an opportunity for local makers to show and sell their wares, businesses along Victoria Parade, including Pedal Slowly, Wangaratta Club, Madam Espresso, and Artisans Alley, will join the festivities, staying open to welcome shoppers and visitors. The market will be held from on Saturday, October 19 from 5pm to 9pm and attendees who make a purchase at the market can go into the draw to win a prize to the value of $300, announced on Thursday, October 31.
BLUES LEGEND: Internationally renowned blues guitarist, bandleader, vocalist and songwriter Fiona Boyes will take to the stage at Tarra Blues 2 musical festival at the Plough Inn.
PHOTO: Jason Rosewarne
WANGARATTA ROVERS THIRDS
GRAND FINAL SCOREBOARD
Wangaratta ........................0.0, 4.3, 4.8, 5.11. 41
Wangaratta Rovers .........3.6, 5.7, 6.10, 7.13. 55
GOALS: WANGARATTA: Blake Newton 2, Max Bihun 1, Kade Hadley 1, Asher Simmonds 1. WANGARATTA ROVERS: Oscar Clelland 2, Samuel Comensoli 2, Jock Correll 1, Noah Scholte 1, Cooper Boman 1.
BEST:WANGARATTA: Kade Hadley, Max Bihun, Hugh Canning, William Petersen, Oscar Roberts, Blake Newton. WANGARATTA ROVERS: Ryley Ely, Noah Scholte, Samuel Rourke, Cooper Gracie, Jock Correll, Harvey Correll
PREMIERSHIP TEAM
Oscar Clelland, Samuel Comensoli, Jock Correll, Noah Scholte, Cooper Boman, Samuel Allan, Preston Coleman, Harvey Correll, Ryley Ely (captain), Tom Ford, Cooper Gracie, Rory Harvey, Cody Johnson, Charlie Lugg, Jed Marek, Harry McMonigle, Cormac McNamara, Harry Mullane, Bay Pellegrino, Samuel Rourke (vice captain), Connor Breheny, Trey Vincent. COACHES: Mick Pellegrino, Dan McCarthy
PHOTO: Marc Bongers
GRAND FINAL SCOREBOARD
Yarrawonga ..........2.4, 3.10, 6.13, 9.15. 69 Wangaratta Rovers ..3.1, 5.3, 8.6, 11.6. 72
GOALS: YARRAWONGA: Bailey Frauenfelder 2, Daniel Howe 2, Logan Morey 1, Leigh Williams 1. WANGARATTA ROVERS: Samuel Cattapan 2, Edward Dayman 2, Will Christie 1, Jack Gerrish 1, Justin Lewis 1, Dylan Stone 1, Dylan Wilson 1.
BEST: YARRAWONGA: Nicholas Irvine, Michael Gibbons, Ned Pendergast, Perry Lewis-smith, Jordan Urquhart, Cameron Wilson. WANGARATTA ROVERS: Edward Dayman, Kieren Parnell, Samuel Cattapan, Samuel Murray, Tom Boyd, Brodie Filo.
Best on ground (Did Simpson Medal): Ed Dayman (Wangaratta Rovers)
PREMIERSHIP TEAM
Samuel Cattapan, Edward Dayman, Will Christie, Jack Gerrish, Justin Lewis, Dylan Stone, Dylan Wilson, Xavier Allison, Stuart Booth, Tom Boyd (co-captain), Brodie Filo, Shane Gaston, Charles Ledger, Alex Marklew (co-captain), Alex McCarthy, Will McCarthy, Jace Mcquade, Saml Murray (playing coach), Will Nolan, Lochie O’Brien, Finn Osborne, Kieren Parnell.
2024 OVENS & MURRAY FOOTBALL NETBALL LEAGUE SENIORS
PHOTO: Marc Bongers
2024 OVENS & MURRAY
FOOTBALL NETBALL LEAGUE
WANGARATTA RESERVES
GRAND FINAL SCOREBOARD
...........................0.1, 1.4, 2.6, 7.8. 50
...............5.2, 7.2, 10.5, 11.7. 73
GOALS: ALBURY: Zach Sears 3, Dominic Gibbons 1, William Haberecht 1, Oliver Hayes 1, Hogan Quinn 1. WANGARATTA: Mark Anderson 2, Charlie Ross 2, Jesse Bianco 1, Thomas Gorman 1, Matthew Kelly 1, Braeden Marjanovic 1, Xavier Norden 1, Nathan Sampson 1, Waitai Tua 1.
ALBURY: Riley Tuckwell, Zachariah Packer, Oliver Hayes, Rory Parnell, Jarrod Walker,
PREMIERSHIP TEAM
Jayden Adamo, Jamie Anderson, Ryan Battin, Lachlan Bray, Harvey Burgan, Ethan Donald, Joshua Hedin, Tom Montgomery, Jett Roberts, Josh Tweedale, Xavier Wales, Patrick Wright, Jesse Bianco, Thomas Gorman, Matthew Kelly, Braeden Marjanovic, Xavier Norden, Nathan Sampson, Waitai Tua, Mark Anderson, Charlie Ross. COACH: Brennan Jenvey. ASSIST COACHES: Jordan Solimo, Xavier Norden.
BEST:
PHOTO: Marc Bongers
KING VALLEY NEWS
Covering Moyhu, Edi, Myrrhee, Whitfield, Cheshunt and Whitlands areas
New community barbecue for Moyhu Tennis Club this season
A NEW community barbecue coming to the Moyhu Recreation Reserve will be put to good use by the Moyhu Tennis Club and the many other clubs, groups and visitors who access the reserve each year.
The Moyhu Tennis Club (MTC) is excited to be receiving $10,000 through the Rural City of Wangaratta’s community grants program, which it will use to replace the existing 15-year-old barbecue which was at the end of its life.
MTC president Wendy Thorp said there was no publicly accessible barbecue at the reserve and parents had been bringing their own portable barbecues to support the club’s weekly programs.
“Having a permanent barbecue in place will allow us to continue to offer barbecues for a gold coin donation to the club, and it will improve visitation to the facility because it can be used by other visitors to the reserve throughout the year,” she said.
“We are ready to commence
WANGARATTA Senior Citizens
Club will host a social gathering at its clubrooms in Tara Court, off Ford Street, today from 1.30pm.
The club will also host indoor carpet bowls tomorrow (Thursday) from 12 noon, cards (500) on Friday from 1.30pm, indoor carpet bowls on Monday from 12 noon, and cards (500) and hoy on Tuesday from 1.30pm, all in the clubrooms or in the adjoining St Patrick’s supper room.
Social gathering next Wednesday, October 2 will be an in-house movie, ‘The Princess Diaries 2’, from 1.30pm.
THE Australian Plant Society (Wangaratta) has its next meeting on Thursday, September 26 at the Masonic Hall, corner of Appin and Esmond Streets, at 7pm.
The grand display of Australian native spring flowers will be the main feature. All welcome.
A CRAFT market will be held in Milawa Hall on Friday, September 27 from 9am, featuring a range of local creators.
BY ANITA McPHERSON amcpherson@ nemedia.com.au
works on it and hope we will have it up and running for the coming tennis season.”
The MTC says many people will use and enjoy the new facility including the Moyhu Football and Netball Club, the gymnastic club, Greta Cricket Club, schools, local and regional CFA groups during their training exercises and visitors including tourists.
The barbecue area will also provide a communal space for residents to gather, socialise and enjoy recreational activities, strengthening community bonds and promoting active living, while also helping grow membership of the tennis club.
Ms Thorp said the MTC is a focal point for residents offering a range of tennis, exercise programs and facilities that cater to individuals of all ages and skill levels.
“We provide a welcoming envi-
WANGARATTA Seniors
Dance will be held on Friday, September 27 from 2pm to 4pm in St Patrick’s supper room in Ford Street (entry beside St Patrick’s Church).
The dance is held on the fourth Friday of each month, with music supplied by Rustic Ramblers, dance revision from 1.30pm to 2pm, admission $5 (non-members $7 includes afternoon tea).
For more information, phone Margaret on 0407 357 226 or Julie on 0408 032 451.
OXLEY Garden Group’s next gathering will be held at Debbie and Bernie Brunken’s home at 45 McCartney Street, Oxley from 10am on Thursday, October 10.
After viewing the garden, the group will move on to Helen and Neil Brock’s garden at 75 OxleyMeadow Creek Road, Oxley. BYO cup, chair and a plate to share.
For further information, phone Debbie on 0403 166 351 or Helen on 0427 273 644.
ronment where people can develop their tennis skills, engage in physical activit, and build meaningful connections within the community,” she said.
“In 2023 we had 35 families participating in activities at the club and our aim is to continue to grow.
“Tennis Victoria had advised we are one of the most active rural clubs outside of the metropolitan region.”
Ms Thorp said the MTC has been flagged in council’s Open Spaces Plan for court upgrades, and they are also identified as a high priority project on the Moyhu Recreation Reserve Strategic Plan.
MTC offers programs which include junior coaching clinics and regular social events, and the club is currently working with Tennis Victoria to develop a strategic plan.
This year the club is excited to be offering three Hot Shots groups with 30 juniors already signed up, a Teens Cardio group has 12 people registered, and so far 18 people are set to enjoy Adult Cardio.
Another new initiative the club
SOCIAL CALENDAR
WANGARATTA Seniors Old Time
Dancing is held every Tuesday from 7pm to 10pm at the CWA Hall in Templeton Street.
Live music supplied by the Rustic Ramblers, admission $10, please bring a plate of supper to share.
For more information, phone 0407 357 226 or 0408 032 451.
WANGARATTA Toastmasters meets on the second and fourth Wednesday of each month from 6.45pm at The Centre in Chisholm Street.
For more information, contact Joanne Howell on 0417 558 881.
WANGARATTA table tennis weekly social competition is held on Tuesdays from 10am to 12 noon at the Wangaratta Showgrounds table tennis pavilion.
Whitfield trash and treasure
THE trash and treasure outlet at the King Valley Community Memorial Hall in the main street of Whitfield is open on Saturdays from 10am until 3pm.
There are a wide range of items with new stock arriving regularly, and outside stall holders are welcome with enquiries to the secretary on 5729 8487.
King Valley Arts Film Club screening
THE next King Valley Arts Film Club screening will be held at the Cheshunt Hall on Tuesday, October 8 with doors open from 7pm and the film to start at 7.30pm.
The October screening will be the Wes Anderson comedy/drama The Grand Budapest Hotel, featuring an all-star ensemble cast including Ralph Fiennes, Adrien Brody, Willem Dafoe and many more.
Film club membership forms will be available at the second season launch event, with more information available by visiting kingvalleyarts.com.au/film-club.
will offer is an Active Farmers Program, aimed at improving both physical fitness and mental wellbeing through group sessions run on the courts.
Members of the club participated in Tennis Australia’s The Women Leaders in Tennis program in Albury earlier in the year, and a recent trainee coaching course in Benalla, with opportunity for further training in 2024/2025.
Ms Thorp said the new committee is focussed on moving the club forward and getting their courts upgraded as soon as possible, before the poor surface becomes unplayable.
“For the club to continue to grow we need to have functional courts that will meet the growing demand of the community,” she said.
“We would envisage having not only tennis courts but a space with potentially pickleball, exercise stations, basketball half courts and facilities under lights that can be used by our many and varied community groups.”
All ages and abilities welcome, bats and balls provided, $2 entry.
Contact Maxine Miller on 0403 209 857.
OXLEY table tennis weekly social competition is held on Mondays from 7pm at the Oxley Hall.
Adults and secondary school students of all ages and abilities are welcome to join in. Bring your own bat, $2 entry fee, and small plate to share. Contact June Uebergang on 0497 860 785 (text only).
WANGARATTA Sing Australia Group holds its weekly meetings each Wednesday from 7.30pm to 9pm at Purbrick Hall, next to Holy Trinity Cathedral.
All welcome. For details, call Keith Fleet on 0491 114 480 or Cheryl Hoysted on 0419 005 062.
WANG Ukes meets on Tuesdays from 7pm to 8.30pm at the Masonic Lodge in Appin Street.
All abilities welcome, phone 0407 311 899 for more information.
Members can BYO drinks and snacks, with fresh popcorn and ice creams available for sale on the night.
Hume and Hovell 200 year celebration
A COMMUNITY event to celebrate 200 years since explorers Hume and Hovell passed through Moyhu in 1824, and 150 years of Moyhu Primary School, will be held on Saturday, November 23 in Moyhu.
A street parade will leave Carl Schulz Reserve at 10.30am heading to Moyhu Primary School, which will host a country fair from 11.30am to 2.30pm featuring historic demonstrations, displays and entertainment for families including live music, novelty races and much more, with entry $5 per person.
WANGARATTA Artists Society Inc provides a supportive environment for local artists to work on their projects, welcoming beginners to experienced individuals.
It hosts workshops led by experienced artists in various mediums throughout the year, and the studio is equipped to cater to artists and their artistic endeavours.
For more information, contact Robyn on 0412 291 066.
WANGARATTA Orchid Club meets on the second Wednesday of each month from 6.30pm in St Patrick’s supper room, off Ford Street.
Meetings include flower shows and talks, and everyone is welcome. Phone Hans on 0428 119 737.
TO include your group‘s activities in this listing, email the details to skerwin@nemedia. com.au
FIT AND ACTIVE: Among those taking part in the teen and adult cardio group at the Moyhu Tennis Club earlier this year were (back, from left) Mia Younger, Michelle Cassidy, Emily Younger, Bree Cashman, coach Gary Commins, Kasey Flanigan, Georgia Saunders, Gina Carroll, Michelle Micheli and coach Doug Smith with (front, from left) Sam Morey, Sophie Pickett, Jacqui Younger, Carla Flanigan, Tilly Pickett, Will Pickett and Carolyn Slijkerman. The club is focussed on getting their cracked courts repaired as soon as possible.
37 Rowan Street, Wangaratta 3677
The Wangaratta Chronicle office will be closed for business on Friday, September 27, 2024 for the AFL Grand Final public holiday. Deadline for classified advertisements for Monday, September 30 edition, will be Thursday, September 26 at 4pm. Phone 5723 0101 Email: classifieds@nemedia.com.au
WOULD anyone knowing Fiona Lindsay’s whereabouts please ask her to contact me, thanks! Ian Wellwood 0400 993 833.
CONCRETING, big or small jobs, paths, driveways, shed slabs, verandahs, 15 years experience. For a free quote phone Trev Anderson on 0422 200 761.
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.
CHECK OUT OUR NORTH EAST JOBS in today's Regional Extra for more employment opportunities. Published every Wednesday in your Wangaratta Chronicle, Ovens and Murray Advertiser, Myrtleford Times and Alpine Observer
Residential Site Manager
Shepparton Aged Care Home
•Excellent opportunity to work with committed to social justice!
•Competitive salary + 6 weeks annual leave
•Mobile phone + laptop provided
•Choice of fully maintained company car, novated lease or generous motor vehicle allowance
•Full-Time position based at our residential aged care home in Shepparton
We are seeking a passion and experience individual to lead our 20-bed cottage style home as a Residential Site who for over 30 years has been providing residential aged care, social housing, housing support, home care and outreach services to people aged 50 and over who have experienced or are vulnerable to homelessness.
How do I apply?
Go to applynow.net.au/jobs/TF240918 to view more details about this role and submit your application.
Applications close on Wednesday 2nd of October 2024 at 5:00pm. Applicants will be required to have three doses prior to commencing employment with Wintringham.
2016 Mitsubushi QE Pajero Sport GLS, auto, 113,000km, heaps of extras, great car, reg (CMN23Y), $38,000 ono. Ph 0427 500 961.
PEUGEOT 308 HDI
2012 5 door hatchback, 165,700km, RWC, reg (ZKF739), $7900. Ph 0407 313 622.
2016 VW Golf comfortline, 167,000km, rego till May 2025 (1FC8WG), great car, always serviced, $13,750. Ph 0407 829 464.
2022 GLX Prado, local car, full warranty, as new, 59,000kms, reg (1WQ9ZO), bull bar, driving lights, roof racks, Anderson, Redarc, electrics, $67,000 ono. Ph 0415 665 327.
2014 Jeep Wrangle r Sport Unlimited, convertible hard top, automatic, petrol 3.6 litre, loads o f accessories, such as fog lights, hill descent, etc. goes anywhere, looks awesome in hard to get red, RWC, rego (2AD5JL), $24,999, Mansfield. Ph 0403 359 006.
SUBARU Forester 2015 auto, tow bar, RWC, reg (1EU8LU), 286,000km, excellent condition, full y serviced $12,000. Contact Ian 0414 428 544.
OLD cars wanted, cars removed. Ph 0435 083 115.
HONDA XR250R ‘86MD VIN: ME065200456, Honda XL25OR ‘84MD, VIN: MD11-5103978, both bikes in good order, call for further info, $1700 each. Ph 0407 316 788.
FOR sale 8’ x 5’ galv steel tipping trailer, good condition, with ramps for ride on mower or small tractor loading, Situated Euroa $1500 ono. Ph 0429 803 505.
MOWER, Husqvarna self propelled, model VXLC347IVX, 21”cut with battery and charger, as new $550. Ph 0427 251 610.
CURR, Margaret Jean. 8/10/1940 – 19/9/2024
With heavy hearts, the family of Margaret Curr are saddened to announce her passing on September 19, 2024. Marg was the cherished wife of Robert, the adored mother to Cheryl, Toni, Robyn and Lincoln. Warm hearted mother-in-law to Allan, Andrew and Lori.
Treasured Grandmother to Cara, Marcus, Leila, Tom, Charlie and Loren. Magical Great-Grandmother to Asher and Evie.
Matriarch to the Young family, endlessly nurturing and kind. She made everyone around her feel special.
Elegant, classy, courageous and brave to the end.
“See you in the springtime”
SMITH, Dorothy Cicely “Dot”. 11/6/1932 – 22/9/2024
Passed away peacefully at St John’s Aged Care.
Loved wife of John (dec). Loving mother of Stephen (dec), Debbie, Michael, and families.
2023 Suzuki Jimny, 33,000km, winch bullbar, no off road, reg (1WA2IT), $26,000. Ph 0427 077 572.
DEATH NOTICES
SMITH, Dorothy “Dot”. 11/6/1932 – 22/9/2024
Passed away peacefully at St John’s Aged Care. Loved and cherished mother of Michael and mother-in-law of Cheryl. You had a smile for everyone, You had a heart of gold, you left beautiful memories, that we will always hold.
Your kindness and generosity will be remembered forever.
NIKLAUS, Charlene.
So sorry to family and friends.
~ Kerri Twomey.
FUNERAL NOTICES
CURR
The funeral service in celebration of the life of Mrs Margaret Jean Curr will be held in the Mason Park Chapel, 95 Mason Street, Wangaratta on Thursday, October 3, 2024 commencing at 2pm. Burial will follow at the Wangaratta Lawn Cemetery.
A livestream of Margaret’s service may be viewed at www.masonpark.com.au/live-streaming
Mason Park Funerals
5721 5060 masonpark.com.au
SMITH
The service to celebrate the life of Mrs Dot Smith will be held in the Mason Park Chapel, 95 Mason Street Wangaratta on Monday, September 30, 2024 commencing at 10.30am. A private cremation will follow. Dot’s service can be viewed via livestream at https://masonpark.com.au/live-streaming/
Mason Park Funerals
5721 5060 masonpark.com.au
FUNERAL DIRECTORS
A funeral experience... not just a funeral service
Mason Park Funerals
P. 03 5721 5060 W. masonpark.com.au
Cathedral College students compete at a national level
By CHLOE JAENICKE
SIX students from Cathedral College Wangaratta recently competed in the Australian Interschool Snow Sports Competitions and came 16th out of 35 schools.
Llewela Browne, Rhylee Turner, Zahli Books, Amelia Malkin, George Walker and Zanna Vietz competed in slopestyle, moguls, ski cross and giant slalom (GS) events from September 3 to September 8.
The Cathedral students have all been skiing for a long time and spend most of their time training, even travelling overseas to improve in their disciplines.
“Zahli and I have been training with Mt Hotham since we were really young and that brought us to competing at different levels,” Amelia said.
“I’ve been away the whole term and training full-time to prepare for the competitions,” George said.
Rhylee and Zahli said it was a great opportunity to compete at a national level.
“Competing at nationals was a really fun experience where you really pushed yourself against everyone in the country,” Rhylee said.
“I enjoyed the atmosphere that you can feel at
nationals and the competition you have against the other schools,” Zahli said.
Teacher and coordinator of the snow sports program, Tina Howman, said it was a huge achievement for an independent school like Cathedral College to rank so high in the national competitions.
“We topped some of the elite Melbourne and Sydney schools which is amazing,” she said.
The six students who competed were selected from the school’s state team, where they competed alongside 30 other Cathedral College students against 200 schools in Victoria from August 19 to August 25.
In the state competitions, they came 11th out of 25 schools and Tina Howman said she hopes to expand the school’s snow sports program.
“It’s just an ongoing process of growing the team but we’ve got a really strong team from prep to year 11 this year,” she said.
“Being so close to the snowfields its really niche little pocket that we’ve got here, so we may as well tune in to it.
“One third of the team qualified for nationals however only six went and it’s my aim to support all students who qualify for nationals in future years.”
is a chance for girls ages 10-15 to try
2024 Award Winners
NORTH East Bushrangers Basketball (NEBB) is a collaboration between local North East basketball associations with the commitment of “CreatingRealistic Pathways for all North East Athletes”
Ten NEBB junior teams compete in the Victorian Junior Basketball League (VJBL) - the highest level junior competition in Victoria.
Our Club offers specialist Basketball Clinics, as well as pathways through Senior Big V Competitions.
One NEBB Youth League Men’s (YLM) team competes in the semi-professional Big V competition.
Big V & VJBL consist of teams from both metropolitan and regional Victoria.
U14 GIRLS D1
The stage set for girls’ cricket carnival at Barr Reserve
CRICKET Victoria is ready to welcome everyone to today’s Carnival of Girls Cricket, which will serve as the launch for the 2024/25 Wangaratta and District Cricket Association AllGirls Cricket League season.
Wednesday’s carnival, from 10am2.30pm at the Barr Reserve, will be a chance for girls ages 10-15 to try their hand at the game or blow out the cob-
MVPMaisy Moscrop
R/Up MVPMaria Hanley
Coaches AwardScarlett Van Schaik
U14 GIRLS D2
MVPRuby Pickles
R/Up MVPLidija Nedelkovski
R/Up MVPMacey Tomkins
Coaches AwardTameka Heenan
U14 BOYS D1
MVPNethum Atukorala
R/Up MVPChace Hueston
Coaches AwardNoah Peirce
U14 BOYS D2
MVPNoah Caccianiga
R/Up MVPUrijah Saxton
Coaches AwardChance Keating
webs ahead of the summer of cricket.
In its second year, the All-Girls Cricket League provides a pathway for girls to play sport in a team environment, socialise and build connections with peers.
The carnival will have everything, from cricket coaching and mini games to player appearances and guest speakers.
There will also be a barbecue, giveaways and raffles, a jumping castles and music.
Anyone interested in participating in the All-Girls Cricket League in 2024/25 is encouraged to head down to the Barr Reserve on Wednesday, September 25 from 10am to have some fun at the Carnival of Girls’ Cricket.
U16 GIRLS D1
MVPElise Napier
R/Up MVPElla Mercieca
Coaches AwardLily Wright
U16 GIRLS D2
MVPMacey Watson
R/Up MVPElliana Grey
Best Team PlayerAmelia Frazer
U16 BOYS D1
MVPCooper Clark
R/Up MVPSpencer Wright
Defensive PlayerLenny Cashman
U16 BOYS D2
MVPAlex Kipping
R/Up MVPBenji Harvey
Bushies AwardJosh Payne
U16 BOYS D3
MVPConnah Hart
R/Up MVPAngus Richardson
Coaches AwardDarcey Anderson U18 Boys
MVPBill Hipwell
Coaches AwardJack Walker
Best Team PlayerLuke Hamilton
STRONG TEAM: (back) Llewela Browne, Evie Scales, Ollie Brown, Elliot Ford, George Walker, (middle) Rhylee Turner, Zahli Books, Amelia Malkin, Summer Milne, Spencer Cole, (front) Jack Milne, Grace Mickelburough and Milaya Treloar were part of the 30 students who competed in the state competitions.
DEDICATED COMPETITORS: Llewela Browne, Rhylee Turner, Zahli Books, Amelia Malkin, George Walker and Zanna Vietz (absent) competed in the Australian Interschool Snow Sports Competitions and came 16th. PHOTOS: Chloe Jaenicke
CRICKET FOR ALL: Wednesday’s Carnival of Girls Cricket at the Barr Reserve
their hand at cricket.
Wangaratta opens season with sizzling track meet
WANGARATTA City Raceway opened their 2024/25 season last Saturday night on a newly shaped and surfaced track.
There were plenty of unknowns going into the night on how the track would perform, but club secretary Felicity Roycroft said it was sensational.
“There was not one bad word said about the track, it’s the best I’ve driven on in Wangaratta ever,” she said.
The VSC Sports Sedans opened proceedings with six heats which set the blistering pace of the night.
Tommy McDonald was a standout, setting the fastest lap of 17.740 in heat 2B to hold off from Mick Mannix, and Kenno Mankey.
The front row of the final would see McDonald and Rhys Collins in a drag race to turn one, with Collins just
getting the job done before the yellows came on due to a messy start behind them.
On the restart, McDonald was not letting Collins get the jump again, he managed to get the move made around the outside and go on his merry way.
On lap four everything came to a halt for Collins when his right rear wheel parted ways with his car in turn three and four, the wheel went flying and somehow missed all the traffic behind him.
Another restart and McDonald was gone, no one had the pace to catch him.
Jack Chiminello and Mannix were dicing things out for the minor placings in an entertaining battle, but McDonald was a class above with a great win to start his season, with Chiminello home in second, while Man-
nix was impressive in third.
VSC Ladies Sports Sedans started with a field of seven drivers, all three heat race wins went to Felicity Roycroft in a dominant display, but come final time it wasn’t going her way.
Sarah Meakins came from fifth on the grid to get past Roycroft and record an impressive win by over two seconds, Roycroft finished second, with young up and coming star, Cobie McGraw coming home in third.
SSA Production Sedans hit the circuit with only five cars to start the final.
It was an epic battle from the start, with Roycroft, Chris Lack, Rhys Lansdown, and Tom Barnard all in a close dice for position.
Michael Sayers in the old Trevor Mills car had mechanical issues and retired
to the infield on lap two, but the race up front was fantastic.
Side by side battles all the way to the chequered flag, Roycroft was victorious by only 0.235 seconds over Lack, Lansdown, and Barnard.
SSA Junior Sedans were using every lap of their night to start dialling their machines ahead of the state title to be held at the venue in January.
In the New Stars division, it was local up and coming throttle stomper Taijan Ussher who would dominate proceedings, taking out all heat wins and the final in a great display of racing.
In the final he was followed home by Zade Ussher, Darcy Dannatt, Cruz Abela, and in his debut race meeting, young Ryder Lack.
SSA Junior Top Stars had a few heavy hitters in the field.
In the final it was Cruz Carlin and Axle Robinson off the front row, with Carlin getting the jump and going on to record an impressive win from Robinson and Maddy Beach, Zack Erickson came home fourth, and Blake Beach in fifth.
SSA Street Stocks, who also have a state title at the venue in January, were looking for seat time also, with seasoned campaigners in the house.
It was a ding dong battle between Morris “Oggie” Ahearn, and Shane “The Hulk” Roycroft that would set the place on fire in heat one.
Oggie would take the win from Roycroft, with Matthew Brooks bring it home in third.
The final was fast, blistering pace, with Oggie taking the win from Roycroft by 1.5 seconds, while Bradin Claridge finished on the infield.
The final class of the evening was the Goulburn Ovens Sedans (G.O.S.A), there first hit out as a club class.
The final was a classy display by Tom Barnard to take the win from Trevor Evans, and Kenneth Mankey, Mitchell Sayers finished 4th.
The next race meeting at Wangaratta City Raceway is on Saturday October 19, where the raceway will welcome the Wingless Sprints, VSC Sports Sedan Ladies, GP Midgets Return, VSC Unlimited Sedans, along with more track time for SSA Juniors, SSA Street Stocks, and SSA Production Sedans.
Loyalty pays off for Stone
■ From back page Stone tallied 15 touches and a goal in the win.
“Grand finals are different games and you never know what can happen,” he said.
“They’ve had the wood over us this year but we went in with a different game plan and we thought we could get it done, it felt like something special was brewing.
“’Muz’ (Sam Murray) and the coaching staff came up with a plan and we executed it, he’s (Murray) such an amazing player and coach and just has such a good footy IQ.”
Once the siren sung, Stone couldn’t believe the first person
he saw was his girlfriend.
“I remember I dropped to my knees and the first person I saw was my girlfriend, it was pretty crazy,” he said.
“I think she must’ve been on the ground before the siren had even gone, it was so good to see her.
The Rovers are well into celebrations that may continue until the end of the week.
“The celebrations have been large as you would expect considering it’s been 30 years,” he said.
“We had a heap of people at the clubrooms rooting for us after the game which was really special.”
TOP SPEED: Tom Barnard was part of a tight battle for the win in the SSA Production Sedans.
PHOTOS: Jackie and Vern Parker
QUALITY RIDE: Felicity Roycroft took out the SSA Production Sedans and said the newly surfaced track was the best she had ever driven in Wangaratta.
JOURNEY: Dylan Stone’s long journey at Rovers was made well worth it on Sunday.
PHOTO: Melissa Beattie
Junior baseballers to don Indigenous designs next year
THE juniors at the Wangaratta Baseball Softball Club will enter next season sporting a new Indigenous-inspired playing jersey, thanks to recently received funding.
The Rangers received $4000 from the Rural City of Wangaratta’s Community Grants Program, which allocated $160,000 to support 29 local community groups and not-for-profit organisations.
The Community Grants Program aims to help community organisations within the Rural City of Wangaratta deliver projects that help improve accessibility and equity, provide cultural or arts experiences, increase community resilience, safety, mental health and well-being, or encourage healthy behaviours and environmentally sustainable projects.
The project has been spearheaded by committee member Hannah Clancey, who said the committee felt it was important to include Indigenous designs in the club’s attire.
“The idea of it was to get a traditional owner from Bangerang to design a new Indigenous jersey for our junior baseball teams,” she said.
“We’re probably a bit behind in term of recognising Indigenous people at the baseball club.
“You see a lot of other sports do-
NEW LOOK: Wangaratta’s
ing an Indigenous round, they’ve all got their Indigenous jerseys.
“It’s around recognising Aboriginal people and making sure our club is recognising Aboriginal people and their culture.
“We’re very happy about it.”
Clancey said the timing was perfect, given the club’s rapid growth.
“It’s also time for some new jerseys as well, we’re running thin,” she said.
“We’ve gone from two teams, this year we had four junior teams when
WANGARATTA LAWN
TWILIGHT TENNIS
we united with Benalla as well.
“The club’s really growing, so time for a new jersey, time to move up with the times.
“We were just waiting on the grant – while we were hoping we could’ve still done it, I don’t actu-
ally know if we would’ve been able to afford it as a club to do the Indigenous design.”
The design with be completed and finalised in the coming months in consultation with traditional owners.
DAY
WANGARATTA C GRADE
GRAND FINAL SCOREBOARD
Wangaratta: ............................14, 22, 29, 37
Wodonga Raiders:...................6, 11, 20, 25
PREMIERSHIP TEAM
Summer Norton, Brooke Henwood, Phebe Gibson, Jessie Knights (captain), Zoe Direen, Sarah Bond, Milly O’Kane, Ruby Croucher, Tayla Maddern, Olivia Szeligiewicz, Diaz Matthews.
COACHES: Megan O’Keeffe, Laura Fisher.
PHOTO: Janet Watt
STAR OF THE NIGHT
WANGARATTA’S Tom McDonald was the winner of the VSC Sports Sedans on Saturday night on the refurbished track of Wangaratta City Raceway.
Wangaratta Rovers’ midfielder Dylan Stone rewarded for fighting through the pain for his club
Loyalty pays off for Stone
THE last three seasons haven’t been easy for gun Rovers midfielder Dylan Stone but Sunday’s premiership made it all worth it.
Stone was advised to retire at the end of last year after an MRI scan showed severe osteoarthritis in his knee.
But the 28-year-old wasn’t ready to act on that advice and underwent hyaluronan injections which acts like a lubricant and shock absorber in the joints to stop bone-on-bone interaction.
The injections allowed Stone to feature in the second half of the season and
BY WILLSON MACK wmack@ nemedia.com.au
most importantly play a key role in the Hawks drought breaking premiership win.
“It’s still surreal,” Stone said.
“We were massive underdogs so to get it done is just awesome.
“It’s been a different road, we won the wooden spoon five or six years ago and the year after we won that spoon we beat Albury in the last round to avoid another spoon.”
Stone has been putting in a mountain of work behind the scenes and said it wouldn’t had been possible without the support of the club.
“It’s been a massive effort to get here,” he said.
“My knee’s been a challenge but to have the backing from the club has really helped me get through it as best as I could.”
Incredibly, the Hawks turned around a 71-point semi-final loss to the Pigeons with coach Sam Murray’s masterplan coming off.
■ Continued page 17
Full story page 17
PHOTO: Jackie and Vern Parker