EVEN a couple of days a er Saturday night’s ‘Bringing Light to the Dark’ show, Project 365 founder Pete Rourke said he hadn’t quite found adequate words to express his delight at seeing 2500 people ow through Avian Park’s gates in support of positive mental health.
“You sit back and it’s a bit like looking at a nished piece of art, but one that a lot of artists have had a hand in, to make it what it is,” he said.
“We’re just over the moon.
“The amount of people sending messages of appreciation for what we’re doing, from people who are wanting to hear and see more of the conversation…it’s gobsmacking.”
Saturday night’s show was the third iteration of Project 365, which was launched o the back of an idea Pete had in 2021 to encourage those important conversations about mental health through the power of music and shared experiences.
The rst back-to-back concerts by the Project 365 band U Can Cry were held at the Wangaratta Performing Arts and Convention Centre in 2022, and a second show, ‘The Ripple E ect’, was staged at the city’s rodeo grounds in 2023 and attracted 2000 people.
Planning began in early 2024 for ‘Bringing Light to the Dark’, and a move from the rodeo grounds to Newman Street’s Avian Park venue was arranged at the start of this year.
A collaboration with Milawa’s Goldrush Ballooning produced a memorable hot air balloon display at Saturday night’s show, reinforcing the theme of the event and no doubt sparking some conversations.
With food, drinks and kids’ activities available on the night, it was
truly a night of community.
“From day dot, we wanted to emphasise that this was about families, because mental health doesn’t just a ect individuals, it a ects whole families,” Pete said.
“A lot of people commented that there was a real community vibe about the night.
“I went backstage to see the balloons, and that 50 metre walk took
20 minutes, because of all the people wanting to stop and have a chat. I thought, ‘This is community’.”
Among a setlist which provided something for everyone, Pete said several band members nominated one moment from the live show as a stand-out memory - and it’s perhaps one which signi es the message and impact of Project 365.
“When we were about to go o
stage a er singing ‘Mr Brightside’, the whole crowd started singing the song back to us - just them,” he said.
“It was the crowd fully engaged - they took it on, and they then engaged us.
“It was emotional.”
That echoing of the band’s performance was symbolic of all that has been achieved in recent years
by Project 365, which through the medium of music has prompted locals to nd their own voices, to open up, and to break down stigma around mental health.
In addition to the entertainment on Saturday night, concertgoers saw the presentation of two cheques drawn from funds raised at Project 365’s previous show.
■ Continued page 2
Parking meters cull more cost effective
By STEVE KELLY
COUNCIL o cers recommended that parking meters in Wangaratta’s CBD be reduced to just 16, with the EasyPark App becoming the preferred payment method.
Wangaratta councillors were asked at Tuesday night’s meeting to choose option one to decide the future of paid parking for local and visiting motorists as it was more inclusive and more cost effective.
The chosen option will involve the removal of all 72 out-of-date meters that relied on 3G technology, and 16 new meters will be installed in combination with EasyPark.
Other options ranged from reducing the number of meters to 52, only accepting EasyPark for payment, or making parking free.
Net nancial cost to council over eight years for each option included -$282k for the selected option, -$620k for the 52 machine op-
tion, +$221k for EasyPark only, and -$1.56m for free parking.
This nancial analysis included consideration of upfront cost of new machines, cost of removing existing meters, signage/marking changes, sta cost, so ware costs, materials, contractual commitments (including the Co-Store contract) and income from parking.
The reasons given by council ofcers as to why option one was preferred, included:
* o ers users a range of payment
options (cash, card and app) and is therefore more inclusive compared to some other options with limited payment methods;
reduced number of machines requires a relatively low initial outlay compared to option two;
will maintain parking income which contributes to providing sufcient and well-maintained parking within the CBD;
will contribute to council’s longer term nancial sustainability by limiting the negative net nan-
EASY CHOICE: EasyPark will be the only option on the vast majority of carparking spaces in Wangaratta’s CBD if a council recommendation is chosen.
cial result expected over the next 10 years; and retains a ‘user pays’ system and the bene ts of encouraging turnover of vehicles.
Social media lit up on Friday when council announced the four options, with an overwhelming majority of users pleading the case for free parking.
See wangarattachronicleonline. com.au and Friday’s Chronicle for news about Wangaratta councillors’ decision.
DOING WHAT THEY DO BEST: Project 365 band U Can Cry in action on the stage under the big top at Avian Park on Saturday night. PHOTOS: Christie Creatives
French and Steve Peruzzo, assist with sales of Project 365 merchandise.
TIME: Project
supporters
A NIGHT FOR ALL: Morris Henderson, Garry Devine, Shane Matheson, Steve Manning, Tracy Matheson, Dasher Manning, Jamieson Manning, Vanessa Manning and Macy Manning enjoyed getting together at Project 365’s ‘Bringing Light to the Dark’ on Saturday night.
SPREADING SUPPORT: Project 365 founder Pete Rourke presents Wangaratta Grit and Resilience Program coordinator Bek Nash-Webster with a cheque for $9000, which will be used to fund mental health first aid scholarships for locals. Grit and Resilience will oversee the initiative in collaboration with St John’s Ambulance.
LOCALS HELPING LOCALS: Pete Rourke, Project 365 founder, with Bec Lanham and Caz Sammon from Big Brothers Big Sisters Wangaratta, and Project 365 supporter Rob Humphreys from R&R Quality Homes, and the cheque for $10,000 drawn from the group’s last concert, which will help Big Brothers Big Sisters to continue its important work in the district.
Bringing the light
■ From front page
The money from Project 365 gigs is held in a sub-fund with the Into Our Hands Community Foundation, an organisation geared towards helping local communities.
Bek Nash-Webster, Wangaratta Grit and Resilience Program coordinator, accepted the $9000 which will fund mental health first aid scholarships for local residents; this initiative will be overseen by Grit and Resilience in collaboration with St John’s Ambulance. And Bec Lanham and Caz Sammon from Big Brothers Big Sisters Wangaratta were thrilled to receive $10,000, vital
funds which will help the group continue its important work in the district, providing mentors to local young people.
“To be in the situation where we can hand over cheques like that is just overwhelming,” Pete said.
“We are very fortunate, very lucky, but it doesn’t stop there.
“We’ll take a breather now and see where we go from here.
“We know from the chats we have with people of the difference this can make, and receiving the amazing messages of people’s stories since Saturday night has been really special.
“People see and hear what we’re doing, and they want to be part of it.”
1884, Incorporating Wangaratta Despatch, Est. 1861
U CAN CRY: Project 365 founder Pete Rourke spreads the message at Saturday’s show.
FAMILY
365
Harry, Noah, Tom and Sam Lindsey.
Alleged standover man could seek release through Supreme Court
AN alleged criminal syndicate “soldier” could seek bail in the Supreme Court of Victoria a er being denied release in Wangaratta.
The 23-year-old faced Wangaratta Magistrates’ Court from custody on Monday after he was accused of striking terror into the local community during an alleged extortion of a Murphy Street tobacco store on 4 July 2023.
The Doreen man was also
accused of extortion of a Wodonga store the same day, with both shops subjected to arson overnight on 27 July 2023.
Defence counsel Marlene Kizana said she was preparing a bail application for the Supreme Court of Victoria, as the matters were set to be contested a er negotiations with the prosecution.
The 23-year-old had bail denied at the Wangaratta court on 13 February by Magistrate
Simon Zebrowski, who said he hoped to make an example of the alleged “gangland soldier” in deterring extortion attempts statewide.
He is alleged to have entered Ramseen Gi s demanding a sta member in her 60s to close down the store within 24 hours or it would be burnt down.
“We’re here to come take over this shop, if you are not out by the next 24 hours,
there’s going to be big, big headaches for this shop,” he allegedly told a sta member over the phone.
The victim of the alleged Wangaratta extortion told the accused she lived at the store and was trapped inside it during the Murphy Street arson, with the woman in her 60s extracted by CFA.
The Doreen man was taken into custody on 23 January a er police released footage
of the alleged Wangaratta extortion.
The 23-year-old is accused of being a standover man for a criminal syndicate vying to gain control of the state’s tobacco market, which has seen nearly 130 Victorian tobacco stores rebombed since March 2023.
Investigators from Taskforce Lunar believed the 23-year-old and his yet to be identi ed co-accused were
Step back in time as 50 year time capsule to be unearthed
By SIMONE KERWIN
A NUMBER of Wangaratta residents are preparing to take a step back to the 1970s this May, when a time capsule is unearthed in Rotary Park.
Originally buried on the corner of Rowan and Baker streets, where Morris Bros Real Estate now operates, the time capsule was relocated some time ago to Rotary Park,
which borders Evans, Swan and Edwards streets.
A plaque placed over the time capsule says it was sealed on January 28, 1977 by then-City of Wangaratta Mayor Kevin Howard, “to be opened in 2025 for distribution of the contents”.
The time capsule was a fundraising exercise at the time for the Rotary Club of Appin Park, which o ered locals the chance to buy
various sized envelopes and place in them items such as photographs and other mementoes, for distribution almost 50 years on.
That time is nigh, and the Rotary Club of Appin Park Wangaratta is planning for the reveal to take place on Saturday, May 10 at 11am, with celebrations to include a barbecue in the pleasant surrounds of Rotary Park.
The club’s program director, John
Cuthbert, said organisers were currently working through a list of those who contributed envelopes to the time capsule, and would contact them in the lead-up to the opening event.
Anyone who is aware of their own or their family’s involvement with the time capsule is invited to contact club secretary Bev Maher on secretary.rcapw@ gmail.com
sending videos of their extortion threats to their manager at a Hawthorn based tobacco store, who shared the videos in a group chat.
The court previously heard no charges have been laid for the arson of Wangaratta and Wodonga stores, but the same vehicle was allegedly present in the incidents.
The matter will return for contest at the Wangaratta Magistrates’ Court on 3 April.
POLICE are investigating a spate of incendiary devices setting spot fires across the rural city.
Overnight on Thursday emergency services responded to small grass fires near Graham Avenue and Schilling Drive which were contained by Fire Rescue Victoria crews.
Wangaratta police Detective
Senior Constable James Nelson said the fires were believed to be set by incendiary devices
“They’re generally a whole lot of sparklers wrapped in cellophane paper or tin foil, with small gas canasters or a deodorant can wrapped around it as well,” he said.
Det Sen Const Nelson said the devices had the potential to cause harm if not properly handled.
“They can certainly cause injuries if they go off and someone’s handling them at the time,” he said.
Det Sen Const Nelson said the incidents have been common in the past two or three months, with around three or four similar incendiary device detonations occurring in January.
“We don’t necessarily think they’re the same people but we think they’re related,” he said. No arrests have yet to be made.
Anyone with information surrounding the incidents was urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000, submit a confidential report online at www.crimestoppersvic.com. au or Wangaratta Criminal Investigation Unit on (03) 5723 0888.
ALMOST TIME: Rotary Club of Appin Park Wangaratta program director John Cuthbert is among those planning the reveal of a time capsule in Rotary Park which was buried in January, 1977.
PHOTO: Kurt Hickling
Local police step up for Team CAV next month
IT’S no secret that strong communities are built on strong relationships - and when it comes to tackling family violence, the partnership between Victoria Police and the Centre Against Violence (CAV) is a standout example.
That’s why local police are once again pulling on their running shoes (and CAV shirts) to be part of Team CAV at this year’s Wangaratta Marathon and Fun Runs.
Leading the charge is Detective Senior Sergeant Damien Peppler, who summed up his reason for joining in just a few words, “because CAV are my friends”.
He went on to highlight the importance of working together.
“We do such wonderful work together and have great outcomes for people in the community, and that’s only possible through the good relationship that our team has with CAV,” he said.
When it comes to race-day plans, Sgt Peppler is playing it a little safer this year.
“I’ve signed up for the 5km as I did 10km last year and it nearly killed me,” he said jokingly.
“This year I’m aiming for a solid 5km.”
But beyond the run, he knows the bigger picture is what really matters.
“This event brings family violence into focus, and I think it’s an opportunity for people to learn,” he said.
“If we are ever going to beat this, it comes back to education.
“This is a great way for people to
learn about family violence.”
And, of course, he had one nal message of encouragement, “go Team Blue”.
Jaime Chubb from CAV couldn’t be prouder to see police standing side by side with Team CAV once again.
“Our team has a wonderful relationship with the police here, and it’s great to have them in our CAV shirts,” Jaime said.
“Team Blue has been supporting this event for a long time, and their presence really shows the
strength of our partnership.
“It’s not just about responding to family violence - it’s about prevention, education, and standing together as a community.
“Having them with us at this event sends a powerful message that we’re all in this together.”
With local police, community members, and advocates running side by side, Team CAV is growing stronger every year. So, whether you’re walking, running, or cheering from the sidelines, come and
be part of something that truly makes a di erence.
Join Team CAV at the Wangaratta Marathon and Fun Runs and be part of the conversation.
The events is on Sunday, 16 March at Wangaratta Showgrounds. Fun run registrations: https:// www.alpinetiming.com.au/registrations/rg550/ Learn more about the Centre Against Violence community team: https://centreagainstviolence.org. au/news/join-team-cav/
Virtual women’s health hub continues to provide in-person care
GATEWAY Health welcomes the launch of the virtual women’s health hub across Victoria, recognising the importance of accessible healthcare for rural and regional women. Comprehensive, in-person care is already available across North East Victoria, through Gateway Health. Clinic 35 has been delivering free reproductive and sexual health services across Wangaratta, Wodonga and Myrtleford since 2010.
It is one of 10 women’s sexual and reproductive health hubs operating in regional Victoria as part of the Victorian Government program. Gateway Health’s registered nurses provide holistic care and can refer to GPs, mental health and wellbeing, alcohol and other drugs, parenting and family violence support services, all within the organisation.
“We recognise virtual options can provide convenience, but Clinic 35 offers the benefit of face-toface care, continuity with familiar providers and locally integrated support,” Jodie Finlayson, general manager primary care and nursing, said.
“Our priority has always been to ensure that people in North East Victoria have access to high-quality, in-person healthcare.
“We want to remind the community that these services are already available close to home.”
For more information or to make an appointment, visit gatewayhealth.org.au or call 1800 657 573.
Wangaratta lawyer to take legal action against Richmond footballer
THE lawyer for a victim of assault at the hands of a Richmond footballer will pursue legal action following claims of “arrogant silence” in negotiating the Mulwala incident.
Wangaratta-based legal counsel John Suta, who is representing the 27-year-old victim, said Noah Balta’s lack of response to negotiations of the assault questions his previously stated remorse over the incident.
At Corowa Local Court on January 30, Balta admitted to the assault of a 27-year-old man in the early hours of December 30 last year at Mulwala Ski Club.
According to Mr Suta, his client was “savagely and brutally” assaulted without provocation around 12:30am, copping numerous punches to the head in a drunken attack.
The 27-year-old su ered severe lacerations to the face, concussion, rib fractures and was subsequently diagnosed with PTSD.
In a club statement following the incident, Richmond suspended Balta for the rst four matches of the 2025 AFL season.
Tigers chief executive o cer Steve Morris said Balta “deeply regretted” being involved in the incident and was eager to have the matter concluded as soon as possible.
Following the hearing at Corowa Local Court, Mr Suta issued a notice to Richmond and Balta to negotiate the matter prior to the next hearing, giving 21 days’ notice of reply before legal action would be pursued.
Mr Suta said outside of the receipt of the email, no further response
was received from Balta or the football club.
“It is most regrettable that our invitation to negotiate an amicable resolution of this matter has been declined,” he said.
“If Mr Balta was genuinely remorseful in respect to the assault inicted upon my client, I would have thought he would have acted with all alacrity in order to make amends to my client particularly with the unlimited resources at the disposal of Mr Balta.”
Mr Suta said Balta’s “arrogant silence” le his client no option but to institute legal proceedings against him with the additional costs and inconvenience associated with formal litigation.
The matter will return to Corowa Local Court on March 27.
Valley CFA “flying blind” in telecommunication blackouts
By BAILEY ZIMMERMANN
BETTER awareness around using satellite telecommunications amidst blackout in the King Valley needs to be developed according to a local CFA volunteer.
The community has remained in a level of frustration following a spate of multiple power outages of varying lengths disrupting everyday lives and livelihoods over the course of two weeks.
In some of the recent outages, some community members in the Cheshunt area, including former Cheshunt CFA captain James Findlay, also lost mobile reception which lasted around one or two hours.
Newer smartphones can use satellite networks to transmit emergency SOS calls when no mobile signal is available, and telecommunication compa-
nies have provided generators to mobile towers when notied of a blackout in the area.
But Mr Findlay said from his experience as a CFA member, the awareness of the settings availability wasn’t clear among the community.
“In recent times when the phones were down and people are needing triple zero, they hit panic mode and didn’t know how to ring an ambulance, so they shut down,” he said.
“In the past to get help in those longer outages I’ve driven up to the top of my hill where I picked up a mobile tower somewhere else and got a message out.
“They think they have to know someone with a generator or a satellite.
“It e ects our ability to respond to emergencies because people may not be able to call it, so we’re ying a bit blind.”
Mr Findlay said the commu-
nity’s main hubs the Cheshunt Hall and Whit eld Recreation Reserve, have backup generators and satellite NBN available.
“We’ve tried to promote those facilities are there, but people may not know or think to go there,” he said.
Mr Findlay said a solution lied in telecommunication companies developing better back up measures for mobile tower blackouts.
“Whether that be better batteries that are going to last for more than four hours or a generator that’s stationed there that can automatically kick in when it needs to,” he said.
Moyhu CFA group o cer
Warren Pro said the biggest issue in the area was the increased sensitivity in the networks to re which had been cited as a reason for the recent frequent outages.
“I can understand AusNet taking those precautions, a lot
CRYSTALLINE
56 Ovens Street Wangaratta www.wangarattaartgallery.com.au | 03 5722 0865 22 February - 18 May 2025
of things have changed in re delivery warning and awareness campaigns,” he said.
“They’ve made these changes for a reason.
“It’s now starting to prove where it’s inconveniencing a lot of people and it’s going to get to a point where they are going to have to review it.”
Community members have been in contact with both state and federal MPs regarding their frustrations around the outages.
Ovens Valley MP Tim McCurdy likened the King Valley power outages to a third world country in parliament last week, demanding answers.
Mr McCurdy said he rst started receiving distressed calls from families and businesses during the last few weeks.
“A member of the community has told me 13 power outages have occurred over a one-week period, lasting from two hours to 16 hours,” Mr McCurdy said.
“People expect power shortages when a severe storm comes through, and we are all very reasonable and accepting when this occurs.
“Having 13 outages in the King Valley when there is no inclement weather, and no apparent reason, gives people the feeling of a third world country.
“Businesses have lost thousands of dollars in wine manufacturing and other food and bre production.”
around the handling of a Mulwala assault at the hands of an AFL footballer last December. PHOTO: Bailey Zimmermann
The times are always a changing
MUCH has changed in Wangaratta and Australia since the 1970s.
For many who grew up in those times, especially if they were in their younger years, it was a time of fun and frivolity, and so memories are often seen through rose-coloured glasses.
But life was far from perfect.
Yes, it was cheaper to own your own home but that still only came through effort and savings, there was no easy path to ownership.
Petrol prices at times were astronomical forcing even carmakers to drop the bigger models in favour of thriftier machines, and if you were a minority, a person with special needs physically or mentally, a new arrival from a foreign land or even a member of the Indigenous community, overt racism was common.
Alcohol was far cheaper, although the choice was far less, and road rules were so slack it was almost like Mad Max on our highways before seat belts and drink driving laws were introduced (against substantial opposition at the time by the way).
Wars were still raging worldwide and terrorism was also rampant, much of it from the same Middle East tensions that are so serious today.
It wasn’t perfect, just like today, but for the majority it was still good, just like today.
In today’s Chronicle we feature the Rotary Club of Appin Park time capsule which was put in the ground some 50 years ago and is due for reopening on May 10.
The club has called out for anyone who is aware of their own or their family’s involvement with the time capsule to contact club secretary Bev Maher on secretary.rcapw@gmail.com.
The Australian Quiz
1Frederick McCubbin’s 1889 painting, Down on His Luck, contains how many women?
(a) Zero
(b) One (c) Two (d) Three
2 The Dolomites are a mountain range located in the northeast of which country?
(a) Greece
(b) Italy
(c) Egypt
(d) Libya
3 Adrian Grenier starred as Vincent Chase in which TV
Please water our local street trees
series?
(a) The Sopranos
(b) Arrested Development
(c) Entourage
(d) The West Wing
4 Who won the 2022 British Formula One Grand Prix?
(a) Carlos Sainz Jr.
(b) Sergio Pérez
(c) Charles Leclerc
(d) Lewis Hamilton
5 Which popular cartoon character has nephews named Inky and Winky?
(a) Top Cat
(b) Felix the Cat
(c) Donald Duck
IT has come to my notice, that despite the light rain over the weekend, there are many street trees in Wangaratta su ering from the recent dry and very hot conditions.
I have not seen any council water cart going around to water trees, though I suspect council is stretched in its resources.
Some street trees give the appearance of dying, which would be a real shame considering the work and cost of the plantings.
We would make a plea for adjacent landholders to give a bucket or two of water to the tree in the street near them.
You will appreciate the shade in years to come.
Adrian and Helen Twitt, Wangaratta
School system needs practical solutions
IN response to Jess Wilson’s letter, Shadow Minister for Education, it’s clear our public education system faces serious challenges.
Ms Wilson highlights the rising number of children disengaging and being suspended from school to question the state government’s approach.
Yet many of these students simply struggle to thrive in outdated educational settings.
Teaching isn’t just an entry-level job it’s a key role in shaping our future.
Our schools need to better support students who aren’t faring well in traditional academic environments.
So, what practical changes would you suggest addressing these gaps Jess?
Because while some use student disengagement to fuel controversy, it’s important to recognise that the Allan government has at least managed to nally source full federal funding for government school students.
This did not happen on the Liberal party watch.
However, let’s not dwell on past decisions made that led to the current situation like the removal of tech schools in the 1980s by Liberal-led governments, which once o ered tailored support for students less suited to mainstream classrooms.
Instead, please focus on how our evolving educational landscape can better serve every student and if you want our listening time, consider practical and e cient data supported solutions schools can implement and stop wasting our time with the tired old blame
(d) Mr. Magoo
6 Patti Smith wrote a 2010 memoir titled, ‘Just’ what?
(a) Married (b) Lovers
game rhetoric to boost your own agenda.
(a) Five-hundred euro
(b) Two-hundred euro (c) One-thousand euro (d) One-hundred euro
9 Which country would you be in if you were playing cricket at Galle International
your own schoolteachers and gain direct insight Jess…… assuming you attended government educational services of course.
Céline Forster, Wangaratta
Medicare boost a start, but more is needed
ROYAL Australian College of GPs (RACGP) applauds the Labor federal government’s workforce commitment to train 2,000 new GPs every year by 2028 and incentivise more junior doctors to become specialist GPs, as part of its $8.5 billion Medicare package.
The GP attraction initiative will match the wages, and parental and study leave entitlements of GP trainees to those of hospital-based doctors.
Similarly, the government’s commitment to expanding GP training numbers will ensure more Australian communities can access GP care close to where they live.
These initiatives are part of the RACGP’s comprehensive plan to ensure accessible affordable general practice care for all Australia and we thank the government for embracing our workforce recommendations.
The government’s proposal for a universal bulk billing scheme is asking general practitioners to make major changes to their operating models.
This will require careful consideration to ensure patient care is sustainable and funding
However, GPs will need government support to understand and adjust to the proposed new funding model, if they chose to do so.
Extending bulk billing incentives to everyone won’t necessarily mean everyone gets bulk billed, because patient rebates are still too low to cover the cost of care.
That’s why the RACGP’s plan for accessible and a ordable GP care calls for a 25 per cent increase to patient rebates for mental health, which are one of the most common consults, and a 40 per cent increase to patient rebates for longer consults, which 61 per cent of Australians need to ensure their chronic and complex illnesses are well managed.
Dr Michael Wright, RACGP president
Email edit.chronicle@nemedia.com.au
Post Letters to the Editor, 37 Rowan St, Wangaratta 3677
‘Happy Dogs Walk’ on Sunday along the Ovens River, city streets and through Merriwa Park. The weather was ideal for walking a er some early rain and the walk was enjoyed by dogs and their owners. The next Happy Dogs Walk will be on Sunday 23, March commencing at the Wangaratta Kennel Club, in the Showgrounds area, at 9am.
Free IT degree offer to women and gender diverse people
RMIT’s free Diploma of Information Technology for women and gender diverse students across Victoria will continue in 2025, supported by the federal government.
The part-time, online course provides students in paid employment in any industry the opportunity to upskill in the high-demand eld of IT. It is open to women and gender diverse people in across regional Victoria and Melbourne.
The Earn and Learn model kicked o last year and government funding has now been secured for a second round.
Student places are supported by the Australian government’s Women in STEM Cadetships and Advanced Apprenticeships Program, which aims to help women upskill and build careers in STEM, develop a pathway to higher education, produce graduates with workplace skills in STEM, and increase the number of STEM-quali ed women in the labour force.
Applications are now open for the 2025 intake.
Mish Eastman, deputy vice chancellor vocational education and vice president said these programs are vital for regional students, par-
of IT student, Vicki Kane, studies online from her home in Corryong.
ticularly women.
“We’re committed to practical solutions that empower working women and address Victoria’s need for skilled workers across metropolitan and regional areas,” she said.
Vicki Kane was a student in the 2024 cohort and is an education coordinator for Country Universities Centre Ovens Murray, based in Corryong.
“I had a passion to learn something di erent and I’ve always been interested in IT,” Vicki said.
“I want to be more comfortable using IT where I work.
“I’m the only person on-site making sure the students can access their studies and complete assignments.
“This course has given me the con dence to solve IT problems and use di erent programs needed in assignments.
“I can study remotely and then use those skills back in my community, which I think is important for rural communities where skilled people, like IT specialists, are needed.
“I love that I get the best of both worlds; a beautiful, relaxed country lifestyle and access to top education at RMIT.
“I think it’s vital we can access remote learning.
“We’re changing the way we study and work and keeping rural communities strong.
“We still need rich rural communities that provide a variety of jobs, especially for women.”
Metro student, Vered Adler is a manager, business and corporate services in a government agency.
She works with IT and cybersecurity third party vendors as part of her role, and was looking to develop her technical knowledge when she applied.
“What has surprised me is that IT is so varied,” she said.
“When I was in high school and university, I thought computer sci-
Lions listen to young leaders
Wednesday, 25 February, 2015
By KYLIE WILSON
THE citizenship qualities of Wangaratta youth were put in the spotlight as the Lions Club of Wangaratta ran its annual Youth of the Year judging last week.
Youth of the Year is designed to encourage student interest in leadership and the qualities required to take an active and constructive role in the community, and students from each secondary school in Wangaratta are invited to enter.
Entrants are judged on various criteria, including leadership, citizenship and community, general knowledge, academics and more, as well as being graded for their public speaking abilities.
“The kids are terrific,” said Youth of the Year chairman Paul Tucker of this year’s finalists.
Three local students - Corinne Antonoff from Wangaratta High School, and Cathedral College students Natalia Gavranic and Michael Groves – competed for honors at
ence represented programming and coding – and I never thought that would be for me.
“IT has transformed into much more, from how to design products people will nd useful to networking between devices and the internet.
“My professional role requires me to interact with third party IT providers.
“I now have the knowledge and con dence to negotiate with them; they can no longer pull the wool over my eyes.
“I have found the online content so engaging.
“I never thought I’d be excited about getting up at 8am on a Saturday to go to my computer and complete my lab.
“The teachers ensure they’re always available to bounce ideas.
“They motivate us and want to see us excel in this course that encourages women to participate in the male-dominated IT industry.”
The next cohort will commence in semester 2, with around 25 students.
To apply, prospective students can contact ve.partnerships@rmit. edu.au.
Applications will close once spots are lled.
NETWORK UPGRADE: New public sites at Barnawartha North and Euroa have been added to the RACV’s EV charger network.
RACV upgrades EV charger network
THE Royal Automobile Club of Victoria (RACV) advises it has completed a comprehensive upgrade of its electric vehicle (EV) charger network at its resorts, city club and public locations across Victoria, enhancing their speed and reliability.
The upgraded network includes public sites at Barnawartha North and Euroa, with each public site now featuring new chargers providing up to 50 kilowatt and 350 kilowatt direct-current connections.
club level last Thursday after participating in preliminary judging on 15 February.
During the evening each delivered a five minute prepared speech on different topics to an assembled audience of over 60 people.
Corinne spoke about the relevance of science today, while
SPOTLIGHT ON YOUTH: Pictured at the Youth of the Year event at last Thursday’s meeting of the Lions Club of Wangaratta are (back, from le ) club president Noel Gilbert, Youth of the Year judge Mary Townsend, judge chairperson Victoria Mallinder and judge Ross Cairns; (front, from le ) Youth of the Year chairperson Paul Tucker and Youth of the Year participants Corinne Antono , Natalia Gavranic and Michael Groves.
community groups on youth, and Michael spoke about his experience on youth exchange in Germany.
The evening saw Corinne judged the overall winner, while Natalia received the award for public speaking.
Corinne will now compete at a zone final in Yarrawonga on 8 March.
The RACV currently lists three publicly accessible sites in the Wangaratta CBD on its map, in addition to the fast charging station which opened in Docker Street in 2023.
RACV says its members will receive a 10 per cent discount across the entire RACV network and each charger can be found using the EV charger nder feature in the RACV app, with access to real-time updates and station availability.
RACV general manager energy services Greg Edye said the upgrades aim to meet the growing demand for EV infrastructure in Victoria and deliver a more reliable charging experience at key regional and metropolitan sites.
“RACV’s EV network upgrade re ects our continued commitment to helping Victorians reach their destination safely and e ciently,” Mr Edye said. Each RACV charging site will also feature CCTV security cameras, providing a safer environment for those charging their EV and helping to prevent vandalism.
More information is available by visiting racv.com.au/carstransport/electric-vehicles/.
Leadership roles announced
LEADING TEAM: Appin Park students Josh Williams, Bonny Febvre and Chase Glendenning were excited to hear they were nominated by their peers to be the school captains for 2025.
Appin Park Primary School
The year 5/6 students recently listened to 12 year 6 students present their speech in preparation for voting for school captain roles.
Each of these students displayed courage to stand up in front of their peers, speaking clearly and with great intent, about what they could bring to the role of a captain at Appin Park.
After listening carefully to the well prepared and delivered speeches each of the students cast votes for their top two.
After careful counting, three students were announced as the school captains for this year: Bonny Febvre, Chase Glendenning and Joshua Williams, and leadership roles didn’t end there.
Keen students also presented themselves to their individual sports teams where the year 3 – 6 students voted in two year 6 students to be their leaders.
Clarke will be led by Marleigh Berry and Joana Rogers, Freeman by Aurora Johns Lord and Joshua McNair, Fraser by Atelaite Cokanauto and Seth McCrae, and Bradman by Harry Knox and Jasmine Steele.
All the leaders will support the school in a variety of ways: leading assemblies, representing the school at community services and being positive role models at all sporting events.
The school is looking forward to seeing them grow in confidence and with their leadership skills, in what will be a great year ahead for everyone.
Cracking the code
GRADE 5/6 students recently participated in an exciting incursion led by Gene Technology Access Centre (GTAC), working hands-on with LEGO Spike coding robots. The interactive session
Wangaratta Primary School
introduced students to robotics, problem-solving and coding, fostering creativity and teamwork.
This engaging experience inspired young minds to explore STEM in a fun and practical way.
Music Fridays
Cathedral College Wangaratta
ARTS and culture captain, Georgie Edwards (year 12), has launched Live Music Fridays at the college, a fortnightly event showcasing the abilities of students, for students.
Georgie kicked this initiative off last week with an incredible set with fellow year 12 student, Patrick Ferrito and accompanied by Mr Ben Hedderman.
The college community is excited to see what the next performance brings.
TEAM EXPERIENCE: Wangaratta Primary School students James Callahan, Nash Farrugia, Brayden Howell, Morgan Hope and Olive Brown were among those taking part in the introduction to robotics.
Balancing act
Carraragarmungee Primary School
STUDENTS recently completed a group cup building challenge. The task incorporated fine motor exercise, turn-taking, problem-solving and social skills.
UPSIDE DOWN: Carra students Cypress Morton, Felicity McBean, Alice Richardson, Bonnie Nottingham and Hamish Brauman took part in a group cup building challenge.
BY SIDE: Students and twins
and Evie
and
Jayden and Rhys Foster, Shaylee and Tyler Harrison, have all started year 7 at Wangaratta High School this year.
double
Wangaratta High School
TEACHERS have been kept on their toes by the four sets of twins that started year 7 at school this year. Each of the students agreed that starting at a new school with their twin by their side made the transition from primary to secondary a lot easier.
1Typically, how much salt is there in one litre of sea water? Is it a) 3.5 grams, b) 11 grams, c) 35 grams, or d) 110 grams?
Magellan?
3What colour is the copper ore called malachite? Is it a) white, b) orange, c) green, or d) pink?
4What is the longest ocean animal ever measured? Was it a) a blue whale, b) a giant squid, c) a bootlace worm, or d) a box sea jelly?
5Who was the first woman in space? Was it a) Mae Jemison, b) Sally Ride c) Valentina Tereshkova, or d) it’s a trick question – no woman has ever been to space? For more CSIRO Double Helix science visit www.csiro.au/helix or
Fridays initiative at Cathedral College Wangaratta.
SIDE
Ollie
Fisher, Milly
Marley Higham,
Barefoot Bowls continues at Moyhu Bowls Club
THIS year’s community bowls event at the Moyhu Bowls Club has drawn strong support from across the King Valley region, with representation from a wide variety of clubs and groups.
All are enjoying the friendly rivalry and the fun, social atmosphere, including the weekly barbecue. Since last week the keen competition has increased to 16
BY ANITA McPHERSON amcpherson@ nemedia.com.au
teams including Moyhu CFA, Netballers, Moyhu Lions Club, Moyhu Primary School, Moyhu Action Group, Moyhu Tennis Club, King Valley Tourism, Greta Cricket Club, Adult Riding Club, King Valley Fishing Club, Cheshunt CFA, Greta Valley Primary
School, Landcare, King Valley Sustainability Group, Edi Upper CFA and Cheshunt.
The format of three games played over six ends makes for lively competition, and the lights give excellent visibility for the latter games of the night.
The winning team on Friday was The Moyhu Tennis Club represented by David and Kris Sufeld and Ross Wilson.
The sausages for the barbecue,
and the meat tray (won by Neale Grimshaw), were supplied by Nikko’s Butchery in Wangaratta.
The club reminds participants that each team must play each week to be eligible for the team draw of $100, and the nal ra e for $400.
On Saturday, 22 February Moyhu’s B1 weekend pennant team won their Preliminary Final and will play Myrtleford in the Grand Final next Saturday.
Myrrhee bridge to close for repairs
THE Rural City of Wangaratta has advised the Redcamp Bridge in Myrrhee will be closed from March 31 to April 22, to allow for its replacement.
In October 2024, council engaged Waratah Constructions Pty Ltd to undertake works to replace the bridge on the Boggy Creek Road, and it says they have now progressed to the point where the bridge will need to be fully closed to allow for the bridge deck to be removed and replaced.
WANGARATTA Senior Citizens Club will host an address by the local SES at its clubrooms in Tara Court, off Ford Street, from 1.30pm today.
The club will hold indoor carpet bowls on Thursday from 1.30pm, cards (500) on Friday from 1.30pm, indoor carpet bowls on Monday from 1pm, and cards (500) and hoy on Tuesday from 1.30pm, all in the clubrooms or the adjoining St Patrick’s supper room.
Social gathering next Wednesday, March 5 will be an in-house movie (‘Quartet’), screening from 1.30pm.
THE Australian Plant Society (Wangaratta) will hold its first gathering for 2025 in the form of dinner at the The Plough Inn, Tarrawingee at 6.30pm on Thursday, February 27.
All members and newcomers most welcome.
WANGARATTA Seniors Dance will be held on Friday, February 28 from 2pm to 4pm in St Patrick’s Supper Room, Ford Street.
The dance is held on the fourth Friday of each month, with music by The Rustic Ramblers, dance revision from 1.30pm to 2pm, and admission $5 (non-members $7), which
To reduce the impact on families, council said works will occur during the final
includes afternoon tea.
For further information, contact Margaret on 0407 357 226 or Julie on 0408 032 451.
WANGARATTA RSL Women’s Auxiliary Hoy Day will be held on Tuesday, March 4 from 2pm to 4pm.
Entry is $10 to play, and Devonshire tea is provided. Lucky door prize and raffle.
For bookings, contact the Wangaratta RSL on 5721 2501.
OXLEY Garden Group’s first gathering for 2025 will be at Park Lane Nursery, 95 Park Lane, Wangaratta on Thursday, March 13 from 10am. Bring a chair, a cup and a small plate to share. All welcome. For further information, contact June on 0497 860 785 (text only).
CONNECTING Community Café runs during school terms on Thursdays from 10am to 11am at Intermezzo Café.
Learn what’s happening in the community, meet others and have a place to drop in, have a cuppa and chat. For more information, contact Open Door
week of school term one, and the first day of term two, and that emergency management agencies are aware of the scheduled bridge closure.
General users of the road will be notified of any changes to the closure dates of the bridge via the VMS boards currently on
site on either side of the bridge, with updates on council’s website.
Further information regarding the works is available at wangaratta.vic.gov.au/ Development/Our-projects/ Redcamp-Bridge-ReplacementBoggy-Creek-Myrrhee.
SOCIAL CALENDAR
Neighbourhood House on 5721 9175.
CAKE Decorators Association of Victoria Wangaratta Branch will hold its next gathering on Saturday, March 15. Running from 10am to 3pm in the Galen College food tech room off Phillipson Street, the event will guide participants through making a ‘fashionista cake’.
Afternoon tea provided (BYO mug), tea and coffee available all day, BYO lunch. Cost is $20 members, $30 nonmembers, junior members $15, junior non-members $20. For information and bookings, phone 0419 513 735
WANGARATTA Old Time/New Vogue Dancing is held every Tuesday from 7pm to 10pm at the CWA Hall in Templeton Street. Admission is $10, please bring a plate of supper to share. Entry also includes raffle ticket and lucky door prize. Phone 0431 190 630 for more information.
International Women’s Day event
KING Valley CWA members and guests are gathering for a dinner on Thursday, 6 March to celebrate International Women’s Day, and invite local women to join them.
The dinner will be held at King River Brewery at 6.30pm where there will be a set menu to include share platters followed by a main course with a choice of either lamb or vegetarian.
Cost is only $20 (drinks can be bought at the brewery) with bookings required by 26 February by calling or texting Gina on 0472 739 442 or Ailsa on 0499 175 368, as numbers may be limited.
Fire Safety Planning workshop in Cheshunt
A FIRE safety planning workshop will be held at the Cheshunt Hall on Sunday, 2 March from 8.45am to 12pm.
The free event is hosted by the CFA for the local community and includes lunch from 12 to 1pm.
The sessions aims to provide a better understanding of fire risk, information on developing a fire plan and a review of the seasonal bush fire outlook for North East Victoria, with bookings required by Friday, February 28 at 4pm, via Humanitix or email amanda.smith@cfa.vic.gov. au.
Clean Up Australia Day 2025
THE King Valley Landcare Group will hold a Clean Up Australia Day 2025 event on Sunday, 2 March at Edi Cutting Camping Reserve from 9am to 11am, followed by morning tea.
Meet at the north entrance to Edi Cutting (Wangaratta end) and help clean up the beautiful natural environment, with more information by calling Ross Wilson on 0468 369 210.
King Valley CWA branch meeting
THE King Valley CWA branch meets on the first Thursday of each month at 6.30pm at the Whitfield Recreational Reserve.
The next meeting is on Thursday, 6 March and all local women are welcome to join in with RSVP to Catherine on 0439 577 940.
WANGARATTA Keenagers Table Tennis competition is held at the Wangaratta Showgrounds each Monday and Thursday from 8am. New players welcome, morning tea provided (BYO cup). Contact Nick Youings on 0408 240 554.
CENTRE Quilters Circle meets on the second Thursday of each month from 10am in the Uniting Church Hall in Rowan Street. New members welcome, current members are willing to share their expertise and skills. BYO lunch. Contact Wendy on 5722 4415 or Leonie on 0403 226 129.
PANGERANG Ukes and More meets each Thursday from 5.30pm at Pangerang Community Hub. Cost is $5, and any instruments, as well as voices, are welcome. Enquiries to 0407 311 899.
THE North Eastern branch of the Embroiderers Guild of Victoria meets every fourth Tuesday at the Masonic Lodge in Appin St, Wangaratta. Beginners and experienced embroiderers welcome from 9.30am. Contact Jen on 0407 560562.
SATURDAY Quilters meets on the first Saturday of each month from 9.30am in the Wangaratta Small Bore Rifle Club rooms off the river end of College Street. Beginner and experienced members welcome. Contact Frances on 0417 158 220.
WANGARATTA Table Tennis Social Group is held every Tuesday from 10 am to 12 noon, at the Showgrounds table tennis pavilion.
All ages and abilities are welcome, with coaching for new players. Free tea and coffee. Entry fee $2. For more information phone Maxine on 0403 209 857.
FREE weekly weight loss park classes are held during school terms on Mondays at 9.30am on Barr Reserve Oval 1 (Bill O’Callaghan Oval).
Those taking part are advised to allow 90 minutes for the social and fun class, with a 10 minute chat before and after the 50 minute session.
For details or to join, text or call Dani on 0467 494 024.
Moyhu, Edi, Myrrhee, Whitfield, Cheshunt and Whitlands
SUCCESSFUL NIGHT: The Moyhu Tennis Club team of David Su ield, Ross Wilson and Kris Su ield came out on top during this leg of the Moyhu Community Bowls competition.
Winsec Wangaratta Cup Day on Saturday
THE Winsec Savings and Loans Wangaratta Cup Day will be held on Saturday, 1 March 2025 at the Wangaratta Turf Club from 12 noon to 7pm.
Enjoy all country racing has to offer at one of Victoria’s premier racetracks where you can try backing a winner, enter fashions on the field, watch the live racing action and enjoy the on-course entertainment.
There will be plenty of outside grandstand seating for those looking to watch the races from a great undercover spot and tickets available at country.racing.com/wangaratta/ calendar/wangaratta-cup.
Art Gallery on Ovens group exhibition
SEE a variety of artworks created by the resident artists from the Art Gallery on Ovens when a group exhibition is held at the gallery from Thursday, 27 February to Monday, 3 March.
It’s an opportunity to see the many different styles, techniques and interests of the 11 participating artists, who are all from the North East Victorian and border region.
The gallery is open on Monday, Thursday and Friday from 10am until 4pm and on Saturday and Sunday from 10am until 2pm and entry is free.
yourstars
ARIES (March 21 to April 19) Try to say as little as possible about the work you’re doing through the end of the month. Then you can make your announcement and accept your well-deserved plaudits.
TAURUS (April 20 to May 20) A more difficult challenge than you expected emerges early in the week. But with your strong Taurean determination, you should be able to deal with it successfully by week’s end.
GEMINI (May 21 to June 20) Before you act on your “feelings” about an upcoming decision, it might be wise to do a little fact-checking first. You could be very much surprised by what you don’t find.
CANCER (June 21 to July 22) A recent workplace success can open some doors that were previously closed to you. On a personal level, expect to receive some important news from a longtime friend and colleague.
LEO (July 23 to August 22) Put your wounded pride aside and do what you must to heal a misunderstanding, before it can take a potentially irreversible turn and leave you regretting the loss of a good friend.
VIRGO (August 23 to September 22) One way to kick a less-than-active social life into high gear or rebuild an outdated Rolodex file is to throw one of your well-organized gettogethers for friends and associates.
LIBRA (September 23 to October 22) Getting out of an obligation you didn’t really want to take on can be tricky. An honest explanation of the circumstances can help. Next time, pay more attention to your usually keen instincts.
SCORPIO (October 23 to November 21) Use your Scorpion logic to push for a nononsense approach to a perplexing situation. This could help keep present and potential problems from creating more confusion.
SAGITTARIUS (November 22 to December 21) A friend’s problem might take more time than you wish to give. But staying with it once again proves the depth of your Sagittarian friendship and loyalty.
CAPRICORN (December 22 to January 19) The Sea Goat can benefit from an extra dose of self-confidence to unsettle your detractors, giving you the advantage of putting on a strong presentation of your position.
AQUARIUS (January 20 to February 18) You might want to ask a friend or relative for advice on an ongoing personal matter. But be careful not to give away information that you might later wish you had kept secret.
PISCES (February 19 to March 20) Use the weekend for a creativity break to help restore your spiritual energy. Once this is done, you’ll be back and more than ready to tackle whatever challenge you need to face.
Family and kinship at the centre of ‘Barra’ exhibition
By GRACE FREDSBERG
AN exhibition by Wynne prize nalist Juanita McLauchlan, Barra, has opened at the Wangaratta Art Gallery.
McLauchlan’s powerful storytelling capabilities re ect vividly through this exhibition, with each artwork possessing a much deeper and culturally signi cant meaning.
Her unique, complementary use of printmaking and textile work create a sense of dimension and texture.
“Printmaking is the base of all of my art,” McLauchlan said.
“I really love working in textiles because it gives you that tactile feel.”
The artist said when creating an artwork, she follows what she calls the “process of doing”, the idea of keeping an active mind.
“Cra is not a dirty word,” she said.
Luke
Alleva
is The Dancin Man
A SHOW which celebrates the quintessential song and dance men of the stage and screen will be presented at the Wangaratta Performing Arts and Convention Centre on Friday, February 28 at 10.30am.
Performer and choreographer Luke Alleva presents The Dancin Man, taking the audience through the songs made famous by the likes of Gene Kelly, Fred Astaire, Donald O’Connor, The Nicholas Brothers, Sammy Davis Jnr and more, all with a modern twist and accompanied by a threepiece band.
Tickets for this high-energy production are available at the box office or visit wpacc.com.au.
“It’s the beginning of everything.”
From embroidering with her grandmother to welding with her father, McLauchlan said she grew up resourceful, using what was in her environment to create.
She said Barra was a homage to family, as well as her First Nations and European heritage.
“I remember stories of my grandparents saying that we made cars and trucks out of cans,” she said.
“Having this (exhibition) acknowledges my grandmother, who was hidden in a way.
“We always knew we were Aboriginal, but we weren’t allowed to say anything - it was this forbidden thing.”
In this exhibition, the blankets, which are made of European bres, are embossed with possum skin, a symbol of Indigenous culture.
Wangaratta caravan and camping show
THE Wangaratta Caravan Camping and Leisure Roadshow will be held at the Wangaratta Showgrounds on Friday, 28 February to Sunday, 2 March from 9am until 4pm.
The event brings together some of the biggest names in the caravan and leisure industry with the opportunity to speak directly to industry professionals, business owners and manufacturers.
Browse hundreds of caravans, camper trailers, e-bikes, motoring, 4x4, camping accessories and much more, as well as live entertainment and demonstrations, with tickets available at expozgroup.com.
McLauchlan said the idea of possum skin being considered less valuable, and not being allowed to use it - instead, having to use the European wool - was a tragedy.
“Every family has a hidden thing or a little abrasion and that’s what I think the blankets do,” she said.
“That’s why I combine the wool and possum together, it’s one and it works - it works beautifully.”
The red thread McLauchlan used across the collection symbolises bloodline, the continuation of culture and heritage through generations.
The blankets in the exhibition also invoke feelings of reminiscence and nostalgia, memories of childhood.
“When you were little, you get tucked into bed,” she said.
“It was beautiful, you got sort of mummi ed and you needed to get a book read to you, or you’ll
Spring Ditch at Stanely Recreation Reserve
THE Beechworth Music Festival (BMF) diverse and gender inclusive event, now in its fourth year, has an action-packed family fun day in store on Saturday, 1 March.
There will be kids races, face painting and the Golden Boot toss, along with wood chopping, highland games, a fun run, cricket, a spinning wheel and everything in between.
Music is set to pump with a difference when headline act Afrobiotics, a six-member band from Melbourne, hits the stage with its undulating and interwoven rhythms and fiery energy.
For more information about the event and tickets visit www. springditch.com
be laying in the bed with your sister and you just talk.”
McLauchlan said the blankets hold onto and remember these conversations and stories.
“We had blankets, warm blankets, and I can still feel them, the weight of them on me,” she said.
The possum tails which feature on ‘giirr ngiyani gulagamalaylaya’ (We will always hold each other) symbolise her holding onto her family, culture and knowledge, but also the land.
“When you see a possum on the ground, its tail is touching the ground and its earthed and connected,” she said.
McLauchlan explains feeling connected to what you’re standing on is important in acknowledging where you are and your environment.
Barra will be open until 6 April in Gallery 2 of the Wangaratta Art Gallery.
A night of magic with Spellbound
GET ready for a spectacular night of magic and grand illusion with one of Australia’s leading Illusionists, Anthony Street, when Spellbound comes to the Wangaratta Performing Arts and Convention Centre on Saturday, 8 March at 7pm. The star and producer of the stage phenomenon, Celtic Illusion, is now touring his Grand Illusion show, featuring levitations, impossible vanishes, mentalism and a death-defying escape. Guaranteed to keep audience members on the edge of their seats, tickets for this thrilling show are available now at wpacc.com.au.
SEWN TOGETHER: Artist Juanita McLauchlan pictured with ‘dhugay’ (Always).
BATHROOM renovations, carpentry and plastering, 0424 911 161.
CONCRETING , big or small jobs, paths, driveways, shed slabs, verandahs, 15 years experience. For a free quote phone Trev Anderson on 0422 200 761.
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.
MAZDA 2023 CX3 auto hatch, reg CHC333, one owner, immaculate condition, service books, 11,875kms, RWC, $27,750. Phone Maxwell.K.Batey on 0419 547 308.
TOYOTA Hilux 2013, 169,000km, 5spd manual, 4x4, full service history, no o road, no accidents, black duck seat covers from new, new tyres, reg (1AL4YU), RWC, $32,000. Phone Allan 0400 541 599.
2019 Hyundai Santa Fe Elite, leather seats, services as per logbook. 4 cylinder 2.2lit Diesel, auto, 1WK 1KR,130,000kms, RWC, $26,350.00 ONO. Phone Maxwell K Batey 0419 547 308.
2024 TOYOTA RAV 4
HYBRID GLX AWD.
As new condition, bought 31/5/2024. Colour Glacier White, travelled 4620km, Extras include full exterior paint protect, full interior fabric protect, windows ttedwithdarkestlegal tint, oormats front and back, slimline plates CYF719.
$51000. Phone Anne, 0407 065 776.
CLASSIFIEDS - 5723 0101
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
ROYAL Enfield 350 Hunter 2022, great learner’s bike, 3400km long rego, still under warranty, 2U4PN. Ph 0411 519 496 or 5721 3727.
WANTED to buy, pre- decimal coins: Pennies, Florins, round fifty cent coins, shillings, sovereigns, 200 dollar gold coins. Phone Ray 5721 7341 or 0401 177 370.
70th
Wedding Anniversary
WILLIAMS Betty and David. Happy 70th anniversary.
~ With love from Petrina, Stephanie, Aidan, Toby David and Jose en.
EVELYN-WILLIAMS, Betty (nee Fisher) and David celebrate their 70th Wedding Anniversary with their children and friends.
Married February 26, 1955 at the Methodist Church by Rev Alex Hay. Platinum Wedding Anniversary WILLIAMS, David and Betty. Ma and Pa, WOW! Huge congratulations for putting up with each other for 70 years! ~ Lots of love from your “other” kids.
LANHAM, Russell. 29/11/1939 – 23/2/2025
As a Dad, he was the king of dad jokes, the master of backyard BBQ’s, and the one who gave us the foundation of our faith in Jesus. As a Grandpa, Rusty and Poppy, he was the Smartie smuggler and the creator of secret rendezvous lled with fun and adventure.
As a Great-Grandpa he was the twinkle in the eye of the next generation, always ready with a hug and a kiss and a beautiful big smile.
And as a husband, he was the sweetheart darling of Helen’s life for 58 years, and he adored her with his whole heart. We will miss you forever, but we know like you, we all have eternal life with Jesus. The End!
Happy 70th Anniversary
SOLD
WORK! 5723
2013 Toyota Hilux, manual, 169,700km, next service 180,000km, Mongoose Multimedia player / reversing camera install 7/23, near new tyres, 12-months rego, Black Duck seat covers, new oor mats, ARB canopy & Bullbar, two Outback storage draws & boxes inside canopy, Hayman Reese ball and Pintle hook tow bars, never bush bashed, well maintained. Selling due to retirement.
1AS8UR $31,000 ONO. Phone 0403 926 144
AUDI A4 TDI for sale, local car, 2013 Model, 102,000kms only, pristine condition, 1,000 KLMs per tank on a long trip, rego (1AA8DW), $20,000 firm. Phone Jurgen 0438 500 888.
MITSUBISHI ASX 2017, 90000km, registered until June 2025 1OJ4NB, $15000. PH 0402 118 361
BRAND NEW BOAT PACKAGE Stacer 379 Proline boat, Bimini Boat cover, Honda 15 HP outboard, 7 year warranty, Stacer trailer, 12 months rego, safety gear $13,000. Ph 0429 082 292.
E-WILLIAMS, Betty and David. Congratulations on your 70th Wedding Anniversary.
~ Love from Jane, Rhys and Paul xxx
COGAN, Kyle Steven.
SETH SAUNDERS
Wangaratta Chronicle photographer Melissa Beattie made her way down to Wangaratta Sports and Aquatic Centre to capture some basketball action shots from the Delatite Ford Benalla Junior Basketball Tournament.
JACOB SAUNDERS
CHRISTOPHER FORD
OLLIE PARR
LACHLAN RUSSELL
AIDEN CASTLE
JAY BUCKLAND
LEO PALMER
FRANKLIN FLETCHER
LUKAS CANNATA
JARRELL MASENDA
SPORT
Hill soars at club championships
LOCAL tennis legend Michelle Hill secured her 17th ladies singles club championship title on Sunday, 23 February.
Played on the pristine grassy surface at Merriwa Park, the nal between Hill and Mandy Allen was a brilliant content, spanning the full three sets.
Hill was on the back foot early, conceding the rst set 3-6, but roared back into contention to level the set tally with a 6-2 win in the second.
Momentum was all Hill’s way in the third, taking out the title with a 6-3 triumph in the third set.
The men’s doubles title was also contested, with the team of Sam Allen and Brandan Liddell overcoming Joe and Matt Allen in a three setter 6-2 2-6 6-3.
The Allen-Liddell combo proved to be incredibly e ective, storming into the nal a er dominating Ryan Patterson and Mark Wettern 6-0 6-0 in their semi- nal.
Allen and Allen took a tougher route to the decider, taken to deep in the second in their 6-3 7-5 win over the pairing of John Brunner and Kevin Callahan.
The men’s singles nalists were also decided, with Sam Allen to face Matt Allen in the grand nal.
Both progressed relatively unbothered through the quarter nals.
The remaining matches and mixed doubles will be completed Sunday, 2 March.
Slim margins in WLTCP aggregate competition
FOR most of the sections in Saturday’s round 17 of Wangaratta Lawn Tennis Croquet and Pickleball Club’s senior aggregate competition, the winner was decided by the barest of margins.
It wasn’t the case in section one, which saw Ryan Patterson comfortably take out top honours with his 23-14.
Kevin Callahan (20-15), Mark Wettern (18-14) and Mark Brown (16-19) trailed behind, while Dave Postlethwaite was well o the pace with 9-24.
Section two was a di erent story, with two games separating the top four players.
Riley Minns held o a number of challengers to take the section 23-19, with Andrew Lindner (22-19) hot on his heels.
Mike Lairson (21-20) and Andrew Harris (21-22) were in the race as well, with Ashley Weston (17-24) rounding it out.
In section three, it was a two-horse race between Andrew Cope (22-13) and
Mason Scholes (22-14).
Thomas McDonald had a handy day with 15-18, while Matt Murray (14-17) and Colic Mackay (11-24) brought up the rear.
Section four was another nail biter, which Phil Dryden took out 21-19.
It was tight at the top, with Alan Busk (21-20), Peter Curran (21-21), and Matt Gorman (20-20) all within striking distance of the prize.
Pat Flynn wasn’t miles behind the others either,
finishing with 19-22.
In section ve, Amy Lairson was the clear winner with her 24-13, while Geo Davidson (20-17), Simone Weston (16-21), and John Shanley (14-23) trailed behind.
Section six saw Des Steele blitz the competition with a sterling score of 24-6.
The next closest competitor was James Wilkinson with 14-16, with Victor Lairson (12-18), and Robyn Snowdon (10-20) close behind.
Results
Section: 1
Ryan Patterson 23-14, Kevin Callahan 20-15, Mark Wettern 18-14, Mark Brown 16-19, Dave Postlethwaite 9-24.
Section: 2
Riley Minns 23-19, Andrew Lindner 22-19, Mike Lairson 21-20, Andrew Harris 21-22, Ashley Weston 17-24.
Section: 3 Andrew Cope 22-13, Mason Scholes 22-14, Thomas McDonald 15-18, Matt Murray
14-17, Colin Mackay 11-24.
Section: 4
Phil Dryden 21-19, Alan Busk 21-20, Peter Curran 2121, Mark Gorman 20-20, Pat Flynn 19-22.
Section: 6 Des Steele 24-6, James Wilkinson 14-16,, Victor Lairson 12-18,, Robyn Snowdon 10-20.
READY TO RECIEVE: Andrew Harris prepares for the serve.
POWER: Ryan Patterson plays from behind the baseline.
PHOTOS: Melissa Beattie
CLOSE CALL: Riley Minns took out section two, with just two games separating the top four players.
Moyhu through to decider
B1: MOYHU won its way through to a grand nal match up against Myrtleford a er securing a comfortable win over St James in Saturday’s preliminary nal at Wangaratta.
Charlie Thompson, Max Baker, Joe Northey and Neale Grimshaw were once again dominant for Moyhu, cruising to a 25-14 win, while Ian Ritchie, Neil Magee, Howard White and Anthea Nockels also had the better of their opponents with a 21-13 win.
Robert Morgans, Stuart Brain, Max Montgomery and Stewart Day had a narrow loss against Neville Hewson’s rink, 17-19.
Final scores: Moyhu 63 shots def St James 46 shots.
Midweek A1: Wangaratta has won its way through to their fourth consecutive grand nal appearance with a hard-fought victory over minor premiers at Corowa RSL last Tuesday.
Maurie Braden, Trevor Selwood, Jan Hermassoo and Graeme Smith paved the way for Wangaratta with a resounding 24-8 win.
Chris Randell, Greg Braden, Norm Bussell and Leon Quarter-
Warriors in action
■ From back page
The under 18 boys, playing against Euroa, Tatura, Yarrawonga and Wodonga, won two of their games, which included their rst win of the season over Yarrawonga.
Wangaratta Basketball Inc.
president Adam Maher said it was an emotional ending for some of the players.
“For our 16s and 18s that was our last o cial tournament of the season, while the 12s and 14s have the Wangaratta tournament coming up.
“It was emotional for some of the 16s and 18s, it’s all come to an end now.
“The coaches were really happy with how the season ended up, and thought the Benalla tournament was a really good ending for those athletes from where they started at the start of the season.
“There’s some progression, the players have enjoyed themselves, and we’ve got a chance at getting them back next year.”
The under 16, under 14 and under 12 boys and girls division one teams have their state championships during March and April, while the Warriors will formally celebrate their season with their presentation night at the end of March.
main nished strongly to just miss a win (14-15), while Laurie McDonald, Mark Allan, Gary Fenlon and Greg McDonald went down 16-21.
Final scores: Wangaratta 54 shots def Wodonga 44 shots.
Wangaratta will meet the winner of Tuesday’s clash between Wodonga and YMGCR.
The venue for the nal is yet to be announced.
Wangaratta will host six grand nals on Saturday at the Park Lane greens.
A total of 168 bowlers will participate with all four greens in action.
Headlining the day will be the prestigious A1 nal between Corowa RSL and Wodonga.
In the A3s, Mans eld will meet Beechworth, and in the A4s Club Mulwala will play North Albury.
The B1s will feature locals Moyhu against Myrtleford, while the B2s will pit Corowa RSL against Club Mulwala, while the B3s completes the xture with North Albury playing Wodonga.
All games will commence at 1pm and visitors are most welcome, and refreshments will be available throughout the a ernoon.
Nansons on the big stage
CITY Colts A grade cricketers Josh and Tyler Nanson have been picked to represent the Melbourne Renegades for the 2025 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander T20 Tournament.
Taking on the Melbourne Stars at CitiPower Centre on Wednesday, February 26, the duo will form part of the 11man squad featuring up and coming Indigenous players from across the state.
The ‘Gades will play two T20 matches against their crosstown rivals, with the matches to be broadcast on Frogbox. The matches are scheduled to commence from 10.45am and 2pm at CitiPower Centre in Melbourne.
STRONG EFFORT: Wangaratta’s under 14 girls side (back, from le ) Rheanna Lang (manager), Amelliah Hart, Bronte Bisinella, Tatum Blake, Eva Lyster, Catherine Ford, Deb Emer (coach), (front, from le ) Ashton Ryan, Matilda Lang, and Piper Cairns made it all the way to their grand final.
Melbourne Renegades at the 2025 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander T20 Tournament this week. PHOTO: Melissa Beattie
ONE LAST SHOT: Ian Titchie and Moyhu’s lawn bowlers are through to the B1 grand final.
PHOTO: Marc Bongers
SHINE SHOT: Under 16 player Elijah Kain’s shot catches the light perfectly in his match on the weekend.
PHOTOS: Melissa Beattie
NATHAN O’BRIEN
LACHLAN RUSSELL
REACTION TIME
Mark Wettern hits a sharp volley back in WLTCP’s senior aggregate competition on the weekend.
■ Story page 14
Warriors in action
THE representative basketball season is winding down, but there was still plenty of action on courts across Benalla and Wangaratta on the weekend.
The Benalla tournament was held between the towns, which saw the end of the season for seven of the Warriors’ basketball teams.
It also marked the nal time top aged under 18 boys Jacob Saunders, Tom Wiedemann, Seth Saunders,
Riley Robinson and Ollie Nash-Webster suited up as a junior Warrior.
The under 12 boys defeated Wodonga and Albury, but fell short against Seymour, Shepparton and Mans eld.
The under 14 boys started the weekend with a 24-24 draw against Shepparton and followed it up with big wins against Yarrawonga and Albury.
They nished the weekend
with a close three-point loss to Benalla.
The under 14 girls defeated Deniliquin, Shepparton, Euroa and Albury and drew with Mans eld Blue seeing them nish on top of their pool and book a grand nal berth against Mans eld Gold.
The young Warriors battled bravely, but Mans eld Gold were too strong, seeing the Warriors fall short.
The under 16 boys White squad were up against Shepparton, Corryong and Benalla, playing Shepparton and Corryong twice.
In a strong sign of improvement, they played their best basketball of the season, defeating Corryong in their rst game of the weekend.
The under 16 boys Green team were undermanned and brought up Samuel Patterson, Eli Kain and Sam Lewis from
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the under 14 boys team, who all tted as if they were part of the team all year.
The Warriors were able to get a win and a draw from their ve games.
The under 16 girls came up against Yarrawonga, Mans eld Blue, Mans eld Gold, Deniliquin and Wodonga, and came away from the weekend with two wins.
The under 16 boys division one side, who are preparing
for their state championships in three weeks, challenged themselves by playing in the under 18 division one section. Against older and much more experienced opposition teams, the Warriors fought hard, with the highlight of their weekend seeing them come back from nine points down at half-time, to snare a thrilling one-point win over Tatura.
