Chronicle Monday 270524

INCREASES in online gambling across the nation has Australia ranked third highest in the world with 2024 revenue forecast at $10.14 billion, only behind the USA and UK.

The harms can become far greater than the financial hurt, with the fallout from addiction impacting users of online gambling products but also their social network including family, friends and work colleagues.

Jody Riordan, Gambler’s Help community

engagement coordinator at Gateway Health, said the harms from gambling can happen to anyone, impacting people’s mental health, causing substance abuse, and co-occurring issues like relationship, financial stress, and family violence. She said because of the inter-related issue of gambling harm, the other issues are

more intense and can have quite complex consequences to people’s health which is often experienced by their loved ones.

“A lot of people only think of the financial harms, but it extends to psychological harms, physical and mental health, even criminal activity, cultural harm, relationship harms - it’s very holistic,” Ms Riordan explained.

“Gambling disorder is listed in the DSM-5 and it can become a real psychiatric condition - the ease of access

to gambling products plays into that.”

Gambling products are designed to addict and with the backing of advertising strategies there is continued ongoing social acceptance in Australia.

Along with Australia’s high revenue ranking, Ms Riordan said the nation is also ranked highly in the world for internet connectivity.

Ms Riordan said children under 18 years of age are falling victim to addictive gambling related techniques

in online games at a young age.

“Young children are exposed to these addictive gambling components with games using techniques and there is advertising on digital devices that people are exposed to from a young age,” she said.

“Gateway Health offers a parents and friends webinar free for people to come along and learn about gambling harms for people and we’re seeing younger people under the age of 18 who are experiencing harms.

“Our largest at-risk group are young men aged 1835, so it’s happening a lot younger and this is due to the exposure, the access and also the culture and positive attitudes we have to gambling in Australia.

“The games are all dopamine stimulating, which is part of the reward system in your brain, and they’re designed the same way and they use the same techniques as poker machines.

■ Continued page 3

The city’s Australian Citizen of the Year Ruth Kneebone (back, centre) was honoured with the unveiling of her carved handprint in the Marmungun Rock on Sunday. Pictured also are Mayor Dean Rees, Ovens Valley MP Tim McCurdy, Cr Harry Bussell, Jesse Cooper, Cr Harvey Benton; (front) Kevin Cooper, Sonny Cooper, and Ellie Seymour.

■ See coverage page 2. PHOTO: Steve Kelly

Ruth’s honour set in stone

Australian Citizen of the Year’s carved handprint in Marmungun Rock unveiled at ceremony

HANDPRINT: Jesse Cooper carved Ruth Kneebone’s hand print into the Marmungun Rock, an impression she said ‘fits like a glove’.

BY STEVE KELLY skelly@ nemedia.com.au

A CEREMONY honouring Ruth Kneebone, who was announced Australian Citizen of the Year for the Rural City of Wangaratta earlier this year, took place at the Marmungun Rock on Sunday.

With the morning sunlight peering through the gum trees upon the rock, and in the surroundings of smoke from a fire lit on top of the rock, Ruth was recognised for her years of volunteer community service within the community.

Ruth is currently a director on the board of NHW, the treasurer of the Everton Tennis Club, and the president of the Everton Hall and Sports Complex committee.

She recently retired from her position of chair of the Into Our Hands Community Foundation.

Ruth said that intertwining Australia Day, a day that which has become quite contentious, with a ceremony holding such a profound meaning for our Indigenous community, to be held in Reconciliation Week and this year on Sorry Day, was the perfect gesture of reconciliation.

“I find it to be a very powerful symbol of the importance of community to all of us, the meaning of Marmungun being of this group or closest to community,” Ruth said.

“When I think what motivates me when it comes to these things is firstly the example set by my parents, secondly I support the things I like and care deeply about, and thirdly just because it’s good and right.”

Mayor Dean Rees said the ceremony was “meaningful and significant” and a symbol of reconciliation in our community.

He paid tribute to Ruth Kneebone for her lifetime of service to the Wangaratta community and described her as a dedicated volunteer and an active community member across numerous organisations.

“Her impact on these organisations has been significant, she continues to devote herself to these causes and support them to grow and stay relevant in today’s society,” he said.

“She’s an incredible example of a regional leader and has used her skills and expertise in these

areas of finance and governance to improve the organisations she works and volunteers for.”

Ruth is the ninth local to have their handprint carved into the Marmungun Rock and Darren Moffit from the Dirrawarra Indigenous Network said the handprints acknowledge her work and also that of past award recipients.

“Uncle Wally Cooper, a significant, well-respected Elder in these parts, worked a lot for reconciliation and he came up with the idea to have handprints carved into a rock to honour local people,” he said.

“Local people who have a significant connection to their local community and have given community service.”

Jesse Cooper is going to continue the legacy of carving the handprints and this will have the role stay within the

Cooper family.

Darren said the rock has a totem animal - a koala carved into it - and this is the main totem animal of the Bangerang people.

“There are other rocks around

the main rock which act as protectors, which also have animals carved into them, including the pelican, long-necked cormorant, goanna, possum and the kangaroo,” he said.

Experts share evidence in murder trial

THE Defence lawyer of Greg Lynn admitted his client committed “terrible acts” in efforts to evade police following the deaths of campers Russell Hill and Carol Clay, a Victorian Supreme Court has heard.

Mr Lynn pleaded not guilty to murdering the campers at a remote camping site in the Wonnangartta Valley in March 2020.

Defence lawyer Dermot Dann KC said the pair died as a part of a “tragic accident” which involved struggles over a shotgun and a knife, and his client undertook a series of actions to

evade police detection, including repainting his vehicle.

The court has heard Lynn dumped the bodies of the couple on the side of the Union Spur Track while returning home to Melbourne from the Wonnangatta Valley.

Mr Dann said Lynn had told police he set the bodies alight with a small amount of kerosene, after returning to the site several months later in November 2020.

George Xydias, a forensic officer at the Victoria Police Forensic Services Centre, inspected the Union Spur Track scene near Dargo in late 2021, finding teeth and burnt pieces of bone a year after Lynn said he had lit the blaze.

Prosecutors allege Mr Lynn killed Mr Hill and then shot Ms Clay in the head at Buck’s Camp, possibly following a dispute over Mr Hill’s drone. Robyn Hill, Mr Hill’s wife of more than 50 years, told the Supreme Court her husband had

Mr Dann said it was part of a “series of terrible choices” that his client undertook fearing he would be wrongly accused of murder over the accidental deaths.

told her he was camping alone when he left their Drouin home.

The court heard Mr Hill had also previously told Robyn Hill that Clay was his first cousin, but she said that she later discovered that was not the case.

The court also heard of statements read into evidence by friends of Ms Clay.

In a statement from Louise Heib, she said Ms Clay “did not seem bothered” her partner remained married and enjoyed the “country girl” side of camping.

The trial continues into it’s third week this week.

MP VISIT: Ruth Kneebone with her grandson Patty and Independent MP for Indi Helen Haines. PHOTOS: Steve Kelly

MADE IT HAPPEN: Sonny, Kevin, Patrick and Jesse Cooper each played a part in the ceremony at the Marmungun Rock.

RUTH’S FAMILY: (From left) Rachel Wiggins, Patty Kneebone, Ben Kneebone, Noel Kneebone, Ruth Kneebone, George Thomas, Molly Thomas, Billie Kneebone, Ben Thomas, and Stacey Thomas.

Council employee costs hit $33m

A combination of upskilling, Workcover hikes, superannuation rise and EBA add to costs pg,,p

COUNCIL’S employee costs for their 534-member team are projected to increase almost $3 million or about 10 per cent in the 2024/25 year.

A rise in associated costs such as Workcover doubling in FY25 is the catalyst for the steep increase across the state, as premiums have increased significantly over the last two years as the State Government has set a higher-thannormal Average Scheme Rate.

As detailed in council’s 2024/25 Draft Budget, currently out for public consultation, employee costs are forecast to rise from the existing $30.698m to $33.604m in 2024-25.

The number of full-time

Man found deceased in Stanley

VICTORIA Police will prepare a report for the coroner following the death of man in Stanley on Sunday.

Emergency services were called to Twist Creek Road where a 40-year-old Beechworth man was located deceased about 8am. The death is not being treated as suspicious.

Police seize

11,000 packets of smokes

BENALLA police arrested a 23-year-old Benalla man and seized cigarettes, vapes and more than $16,000 in cash last Wednesday.

A search warrant at an address on Bridge Street East, Benalla residence was executed at about 3.40pm.

More than 11,000 packets of cigarettes, more than 3000 vapes and cash were allegedly seized.

BY STEVE KELLY skelly@ nemedia.com.au

equivalent staff is forecast to decrease from 353 employees in FY24 to 348, and part-time staff is expected to increase from 128 to 136 in FY25.

Projected employee costs for the FY26, FY27 and FY28 are $34.749m, $35.966m and 37.045m, respectively.

Tom Coelli-Donaghy, manager- people and culture, explained that as outlined in council’s EBA, changes to super contributions and increases to WorkCover costs and employee costs are forecast to increase by about 10pc from FY24 to FY25.

“These items combine to create a $3m increase in salaries in FY25, with estimated increases in future years currently based on EBA increases,” he said.

“This increase has several contributing factors, including the council’s latest EBA agreement, which will see staff salaries rise on average by 3pc in FY25.

“An additional factor in the increase is the estimated banding increases that staff may achieve during the year.”

Based on performance, staff can progress up to one band every 12 months and these banding increases, on average, range from 3pc to 5pc, depending on the position.

Along with increases to

existing salaries, the other major change in the next 12 months will be in on costs.

“These are the costs associated with having an employee but are not their direct salary,” Mr CoelliDonaghy said.

“Examples include superannuation, which is increasing to 11.5pc in the coming financial year.

“The largest factor in FY25 is Workcover costs, which will rise close to 100pc in the space of 12 months.”

In addition to investing in their people, Mr CoelliDonaghy said the council continually reviews the engagement of their employees and last year, the council saw an increase in the overall engagement levels.

HELP IS OUT THERE: Jody Riordan, Gambler’s Help community engagement coordinator at Gateway Health, said the harms for online gambling are extensive and complex.

“Through our 2023 engagement survey, we also found that staff felt a commitment to quality and that they had a best friend at work, indicating a positive work culture,” he highlighted.

“Significant effort has been made to increase engagement this year by prioritising organisation-wide actions.

“The Rural City of Wangaratta is proud to be recognised as an Employer of Choice in the region.

“This distinction reflects our commitment to fostering a dynamic, inclusive, and supportive work environment where employees can thrive both personally and professionally.

“We prioritise the well-

being and development of our team through professional development opportunities, a strong emphasis on work-life balance, and a culture that values diversity and innovation.

“We are dedicated to creating a culture that embraces diversity and encourages continuous learning and growth.”

For those interested in employment at the Rural City of Wangaratta Council, visit www.wangaratta.vic. gov.au/Your-Council/Careers/How-to-apply.

To view and make a submission to the 2024/25 Draft Budget visit https:// www.wangaratta.vic.gov. au/Your-Council/Publicnotices/202425-Draft-Budget

Gambling addiction is costing people more than money, but local help is accessible

■ From page 1

“It feels normal for children to get on to gambling when they turn 18 because that’s what they’re used to doing.”

Ms Riordan said the harms are attached to the addiction of gambling and can take over every part of somebody’s life, no matter whether you’re winning or losing.

The ease of access to gambling products with online websites and apps has added to the societal problem.

“When we’ve got our smart devices 24/7, we’ve got access to the gambling products 24/7, so we have the means to be able to place bets,” Ms Riordan said.

Gateway Health has a Gambler’s Help program that is available to anybody impacted by gambling, including the person gambling, their family, friends and work colleagues.

The service is available to anybody in the Upper Murray and Gateway Health provides its services over the phone, online, face-to-face, onsite, and through outreach.

Digital Pest Control

“It’s really easy to come to our service and people can email us, via ghnortheastvic@ gatewayhealth.org.au or just call Gateway Health on 1800 657 573,” she said.

“All we ask people to do is leave a name and a number and a preferred contact method and one of us will get back to you within five business days and schedule an appointment.

“Our services are very client-centred and we work with people to identify their own priorities, needs, strengths, supports and their solutions.

“We also offer the professional support strategies and approaches.”

Gateway Health also partners with community groups and cross sectors and raises awareness of gambling harms and risks and the availability of support services.

Gambling is often not an issue in isolation and people can connect with other services at Gateway Health as well.

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The sooner you take action the better. With pests it’s not about treating the symptoms you see but removing the source of the problem. This calls for a professional pest exterminator such as Economic Pest Control.

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ARRIVALS AT NORTHEAST HEALTH WANGARATTA

The Wangaratta Chronicle will be in attendance at the midwifery ward on Wednesdays and Fridays at 9.30am to take photos of newborns with their parents, grandparents and/or siblings.

Consent forms are available from Northeast Health Wangaratta and from Wangaratta Chronicle staff on the day. If you would like a photo but are not at the ward at the time of

Max Robert Oliver

Max Robert Oliver was born at Northeast Health Wangaratta on Thursday, May 16 at 9:15am and weighed 4.11kg (9lb). He is a brother for Hunter and the son of Tegan and Keegan Oliver of Cobram.

Sophie Jean James

Sophie Jean James was born at Northeast Health on Tuesday, May 21 at 6:30pm and weighed 2.825kg (6lb 3oz).0 She is the sister of Dustin and Reggie and the daughter of Jessica and Jack James of Mt Bruno.

Dustin William Webster

Dustin William Webster was born at Northeast Health Wangaratta on Thursday, May 23 at 12:30pm and weighed 3.6kg (7lb 14oz). He is the brother of Bryce and Harper and the son of Tracey Jones and Anthony Webster of Tolmie.

visiting, you can come into the Wangaratta Chronicle office at 37 Rowan Street during office hours to organise it.

Photographs are available to purchase from the Wangaratta Chronicle office.

Parker Jay Quinn

Parker Jay Quinn was born at Northeast Health Wangaratta on Monday, May 20 at 6:09pm and weighed 3.5kg (7lb 11oz). He is the son of Taneeka and Hayden Quinn of Yarrawonga.

Asta Clare Buis

Asta Clare Buis was born at Northeast Health Wangaratta on Thursday, May 23 at 9:54am and weighed 3.83kg (8lb 7oz). She is the sister of Vinson and Easton and the daughter of Cassie and Joel Buis of Bright.

Harriet Dawn Griffin

Harriet Dawn Griffin was born at Northeast Health Wangaratta on Thursday, May 23 at 2:15pm and weighed 3.63kg (8lb). She is the sister of Olivia and Maeve and the daughter of Georgia and Ben Griffin of Yarrawonga.

Students get a taste for work life for a week

SECONDARY students from schools across the Rural City of Wangaratta were offered a look into future career paths as they responded to work experience last week.

Cathedral College work experience coordinator Rod Dunbar, who has been in this position for the last 10 years, he said he has seen a variety of different businesses students have chosen.

These students’ choices and ideas are taking them far and wide to places such as Melbourne, some other students have gone to a Queensland boat show, one student has gone to an Indigenous school in Alice Springs.

BY COOPER RAMSAY Cathedral College work experience student

There has even been a student that has gone all the way to the Philippines.

“The goal of work experience is to get the student engaged and become familiar within the workplace and to spark an interest for any potential career paths,” Mr Dunbar said.

“We encourage students to try something different” and to get a range of experiences throughout the week to help maximize their learning.”

Many of these statements have been echoed by Cathedral College student Danielle Coulter who has gone all the way to Melbourne for her work experience.

She has gone to Lizzy’s Chocolate Creations in Carnegie to get a taste behind the scenes of making the chocolates and other sweets.

She said her experience has been great, and she’s learnt a lot about chocolate making and running a business.

When asked about any advice for future work experience students she said, “Choose a place you would like and get in early to secure your spot”.

SWEET TOOTH: Cathedral College student Danielle Coulter getting a taste of what chocolate making is all about.

New Salvos building opening

THE official opening of the new Salvation Army Corps building on 59 Greta Road, will be on Saturday, June 1 at 10am.

All are invited to come along to the opening, to join in the celebrations and have a look at the new premises.

Following the opening ceremonies, the building will be open to the public.

There will be information available on services Salvos offers and several free family friendly activities for the community.

Volunteer pastor of The Salvation Army Wangaratta Corps Peter Lewis said anyone from the Wangaratta community is welcome to come.

“The Salvation Army is an important component of the Wangaratta Community,” he said.

“Salvos assist those in need and those experiencing hardship through natu-

BY JORDAN DUURSMA jduursma@ nemedia.com.au

ral disaster.

“The Salvos is also a place of worship and a place for spiritual support.

“This event will inform the community of where the Salvos are based and what they do.”

Dignitaries for the opening will include Dr Helen Haines member for Indi, Tim McCurdy member for Ovens Valley, councillor Dean Rees mayor of Wangaratta, Colonel Miriam Gluyas, Salvation Army leader of Australia and Colonel Kelvin Mettett, Salvation Army leader of Victoria.

The Salvation Army has a long and rich history in the local area, formally commencing in Wangaratta in 1891.

Previously the corps was

located in Rowan Street for 92 years and in Garnet Avenue since 1982 before moving to this new location at 59 Greta Road.

Mr Lewis said the new location will allow the Wangaratta Salvation Army Corps to better serve the community with adequate facilities and equipment.

The Salvation Army will run a variety of services from these facilities.

Services will include worship gatherings, community meals, Salvo Fridays Free breakfast and Café on Fridays from 8.30am to 1pm, an internal area for people to drop in and share conversations, after hours emergency relief services, homelessness services through Salvo Care, ministry to women and men and exciting opportunities for external local businesses, groups and not for profit organisation utilise the facility.

FIGHTING THE BEAST: IF you thought our mornings have been cold, spare a thought for this ‘motley crew’ at Wangaratta Motor Group. Staff members (from left) Wayne Dyer, Jon York, Craig Niklaus, Scott Saunders and Jemma Robl are preparing to take the plunge into an ice bath in the back of a Mitsubishi ute at the dealership on Friday, June 7. The chilling event is a fundraiser in support of The Big Freeze 10; Fight MND, to help fund effective treatments and ultimately a cure for Motor Neurone Disease. Wangaratta Motor Group is hoping to raise $2500, with more than $600 already in hand. Community members are being encouraged to get onboard and donate too, with the person who makes the largest donation getting to pour a large bucket of ice over the head of the general manager. To donate use the QR code or go to https://support. fightmnd.org.au/fundraisers/WangMG/diy-bigfreeze

Dire number of drug overdoses for Australia

By JORDAN DUURSMA

WITH the drug overdose crisis in Australia continuing to worsen, Penington Institute has taken the unprecedented step of releasing some early top-line data from its upcoming annual overdose report, published every August since 2018.

The data shows that 2356 Australians lost their lives due to overdose over a 12-month period, almost double the number of Australians who died in road traffic crashes (1276) in the same year.

Almost 80 per cent (79.7 per cent or 1878) of all drug-induced deaths in 2022 were unintentional, an increase of 138 deaths on the previous 12 months.

Between 2021 and 2022, the number of unintentional druginduced deaths increased in all age groups except 30-39 year olds, which remained stable.

Males accounted for 1317 unintentional drug-induced deaths, compared to 561 females in 2022.

Opioids were the most common drug involved in unintentional deaths, increasing by 68 deaths since 2021.

Penington Institute chief executive officer John Ryan said more than six Australians lose their lives to overdose every day.

“Measured against last year’s report, we are seeing an alarming and devastating rise in the number of drug-induced deaths recorded year on year in Australia,” he said.

“Unintentional overdose death is far outpacing population growth in Australia.

“Among Indigenous Australians, the numbers are calamitous, almost four times worse.”

Gateway Health in Wangaratta has a specialised Alcohol and other Drugs (AOD) team.

AOD non-residential program manager Caddie Russell said people can self-refer to Gateway Health’s AOD services by calling 1300 022 760.

“At Gateway Health we understand the significant impact of overdose risk within our community,” Caddie said.

“Our AOD services assist people in managing this risk, providing comprehensive support for individuals experiences AOD concerns, as well as their families.”

ALL ARE WELCOME: Volunteer pastors Peter and Rhonda Lewis invite the Wangaratta community to the official opening of the new Salvos building on Greta Road.

PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

Shake the grip of online gambling

TODAY’S page 1 story is about how Australian’s are getting hooked on gambling with the nation having the third highest revenue ($10.14 billion) in the world behind only the USA ($23b) and the UK ($13.78b).

In Australia online is expected to grow by 10.5 per cent this year, and by 5.12pc until 2028.

Gambling has for a long time been a socially acceptable form of ‘entertainment’ due to its link with the thing they are betting on, largely the outcomes of sporting events.

But somewhere along the way the line the gambling vice tightened with the number of gambling products growing over time.

Advertising for gambling products has saturated the digital world, whether it’s television, or mobile phones or tablets.

There are restrictions in place now connected to the display of gambling advertising during sporting events, but unfortunately this does not go far enough.

Access to gambling products is all too easy for people and the greatest users are men aged 18 to 35.

The addictive nature of online gambling and it’s intricate in-app products help fuel the addiction fire.

Live updates on how your chosen bet is performing every time some kicks the ball or kicks a goal definitely don’t help.

With anything that is addictive, there usually comes side affects where other aspects of people’s lives start to suffer.

There is a long list of other problems connected to gambling including mental health of the individual and harms that migrate to surrounding family and friends.

For people who want to change their habits, email via ghnortheastvic@gatewayhealth.org.au or just call Gateway Health on 1800 657 573.

The Quiz No. 86

1. The Simpson Desert is located in the Northern Territory, South Australia and which other state?

2. In which classic 1953 movie did Vincent Price play the role of Professor Henry Jarrod?

3. How many stripes are on the flag of Romania?

4. By what name is the legendary American sharpshooter, Phoebe Ann Mosey, best known?

5. As at 2016, Kris Miller had played for which two WAFL teams?

6. In which Australian state or territory is Charles Darwin University located?

7. Which band released the 2007 album, Sun Dirt Water?

8. Tides of Darkness, Reign of Chaos, and Orcs & Humans are three titles in which popular computer game series?

9. What is the world’s largest gulf?

10. Which two coloured cards do soccer referees use?

11. In which decade did Garry Weston invent Wagon Wheels biscuits?

12. Suva, the capital of Fiji, is located on which island?

13. Who has been the longest cast member in the TV series, Law & Order: Special Victims Unit?

14. Which alcoholic beverage is added to tequila to make a Slammer Royale cocktail?

15. In which sport did Matthew Mitcham win a gold medal at the 2008 Summer Olympics?

16. What colour skivvy did Sam Moran wear when he was a member of The Wiggles?

17. Who wrote the 1976 novelette, The Bicentennial Man?

18. Equatorial Guinea shares land borders with which two countries?

19. In 2015, Andrew Hastie became the Federal Member for which Western Australian division?

20. Who was Elizabeth Taylor’s first husband?

FACEBOOK users this week commented on the installation of a largescale sculpture in Oxley will mark a significant step in the King Valley Prosecco Road Revitalisation Project.

• Angela Taylor: What about fixing the roads so the tourists don’t wreck their cars.

• Adam Anderson: Real artwork is created with meaning. Loved to know what the meaning behind

this shape is.

• Jayne Sacco: As Ian Corbett said if your entering the wine region a big bunch of grapes would be more appropriate. Like big banana. Big strawberry. Big pineapple.

• Na Um: Glad they found use of the old TV antennas. Can’t wait to see what artwork is created with solar panels.

• Margi Smith: Stupid waste of money especially when our drinking water

Energy forum in city a great success

I ATTENDED the Energy Forum held last Tuesday, May 21 at the CWA Hall in Wangaratta.

I take this opportunity to thank the organisers for putting on such an important event to discuss the existing crucial energy situation our country is in.

The four guest speakers were extremely informative, we were not lectured to, the facts for an against were shown to us and as stated, up to us to compare - oranges with oranges or oranges with apples.

The very next day the CSIRO released its findings on nuclear energy stating figures that didn’t match the information from the four guest speakers which was confusing.

By the end of the day the CSIRO had to backtrack these findings due to basing their conclusions on an American model dismantled long ago which was totally unacceptable from such an organisation.

I came away from that meeting realising that regard;ess which path our country takes, the power stations must remain up and running for the foreseeable future.

This was confirmed two days later with the NSW government announcing Earring will remain operating.

Pat Cushaway, Wangaratta

Economics of coal versus renewables

LAST Tuesday’s forum convened by the Liberal Party wasn’t just about nuclear power.

The long and short term economics of coal vs renewables generation were also discussed.

High Efficiency Low Emissions coal is arguably cheaper and simpler than nuclear in the short term, and neither does it does it occupy good farmland like renewables or need new transmission lines.

The forum identified Climate Change as a political debate irrespective of its evidence, probably meaning aspiring politicians want to be seen “on the right side if history” and hitch their wagons to the global warming star.

Hence the Liberals are unlikely to seriously contradict it.

Carbon dioxide is an ideal candidate for commercialisation and the Climate Change industry appeals to purity of nature values deeply embedded in the human psyche. Ordinary people remain unaware of great changes being wrought, until it is too late. It’s unlikely we’ll return to cheap electricity any time soon.

More Burston, Myrrhee

NOTE: Comments as they appear online, without corrections. Our follower total is Like the Wangaratta Chronicle Facebook page to have your say.

pressure keeps dropping with each new estate built and sewage facilities need

a major upgrade, they want growth in our city but waste money on this crap! No brain cells left in any of these councillors to do the right thing by the rate payers.

• Leslie Matthews: If it creates controversy it’s done its job. Excellent idea! Well done!

• Dave George: What a waste of money.

• Ian Corbett: A big bunch of grapes wouldave been better.

14,856

Senior Victorians invited to have a voice

THE Allan Labor Government is inviting older Victorians to share their insights and experiences by joining the new Senior Victorians Advisory Committee.

The new committee was launched this week and will provide more opportunities for older people to give advice directly to government on their priorities, the challenges they face, and emerging issues.

By 2046, the number of Victorians 60 years and over is set to increase from 1.5 million to 2.3 million, equivalent to 25 per cent of the Victorian population.

Older Victorians play an important role in our community, making invaluable contributions to Victoria through their social, cultural and economic participation.

Advice from the new Senior Victorians Advisory Committee will help the Labor Government better understand the changing needs of older Victorians and inform programs that impact them.

The committee’s work will focus on providing advice on the implementation of the Ageing Well Action Plan 2022-2026 and the lived experience of older Victorians.

In addition to this, the committee

will raise awareness of the positive contributions and meaningful participation of older people in social, economic and cultural life, as well as promoting rights and respect for older Victorians.

The committee will consist of a chairperson, up to eight community committee members and four sector organisation committee members.

People 60 years and over, and First Nations people 50 years and over, are eligible to apply to join the committee before Tuesday, July 2. For more information, visit seniorsonline. vic.gov.au/advisory-committee

Ingrid Stitt, Minister for Ageing

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

Queensland 2. House of Wax 3. Three 4. Annie Oakley

East Fremantle, South Fremantle 6. Northern Territory 7. The Waifs 8. Warcraft 9. Gulf of Mexico 10. Yellow, red 11. 1940s

Viti Levu 13. Mariska Hargitay 14. Champagne 15. Diving 16. Yellow

Isaac Asimov 18. Cameroon, Gabon

Canning 20. Conrad Hilton, Jr.

CELEBRITY VISITORS: Children’s performers Joel and Al McInnes (AKA The Mik Maks) dropped in to Pangerang Community Hub, ahead of their debut performance at the Wangaratta Art Gallery on June 23. Thrilled to meet them were (back) Pangerang Community Hub educator Hayley Buck with youngsters Harrison Joyce, Patrick Gathercole, Harriet Morrow, (front) Cameron Gathercole, Charlotte Penney, Maddison Larkin and (far left) Judd Salafia.

Libraries across state under pressure from inflation changes

Public Libraries Victoria calls for funding reform in the wake of state budget PbliLibiViillffdifihkfbdhfllshortfalls

PUBLIC Libraries

Victoria has called for funding reform, following another Victorian budget it says failed to address inflationary pressures on public libraries.

At a time when more Victorians are turning to their local library for help as the cost-of-living bites, Public Libraries

Victoria president Vanessa Schernickau said state funding for public libraries continued to fall in real terms.

“Millions rely on their local library for everything from books to early childhood literacy sessions, to a free and safe space with heating and cooling,” Ms Schernickau said.

However, she said funding for libraries was not keeping pace with inflation or the increasing demand for library services.

“Public libraries are being asked to welcome more people through their doors, open for longer, expand online services, deliver more pre-school literacy sessions and education programs, and make more books and other resources available for loan – all with less money,” Ms Schernickau said.

“The 2024-’25 Victorian budget is providing important support for families with school-age children...but families with kids under five, teenagers looking for homework help when mum and dad have long commutes, and older

Victorians in financial distress will continue to look to their library for help.”

Public Libraries Victoria has called on the State Government to commit to reforming the Public Library Funding Program.

It wants funding indexed to CPI and the distribution formula changed to an equity model that takes account of population forecasts rather than dated census information, together with more accurate measures of community need.

Ms Schernickau said twothirds of the people who walked through the doors of libraries were aged under 50, but State Government funding was based partly on the percentage of the population aged over 60.

“Victorians of all ages use libraries,” she said.

“We know that early learning starts well before kinder, often in a library.

“Research has proven that children who are read to regularly begin school with an almost 12-month head-start, and maintain higher language, literacy and numeracy skills later in life.

“We want every child to have access to Story Time and Rhyme Time, every Victorian to have free access to the books they want to read in the language they prefer, and every library to have the technology and digital resources people want and need.”

Wangaratta users express concerns

IN the lead-up to the Victorian budget, Wangaratta community members added their voices to Victoria-wide concerns about the possibility of funding cuts to public libraries.

Members of the Wangaratta Friends of the Library Action Group met last month with Wangaratta

Our coldest mid-May morning in 25 years

By Peter Nelson Peter Nelson, retired

THE temperature fell to minus 4.1 degrees on Sunday morning, May 19 in Wangaratta.

It was the coldest in Wangaratta for the third week of May since minus 5 degrees on May 17, 1999. There were lower readings at the end of May 2006 and 2021.

Last month saw the lowest temperatures along the South Australian coast which were the coldest for April since 1999. This makes things quite interesting.

Heavy rain fell at end of May and early June and after a dry cold July, heavy rain fell near the end of August 1999.

Later on in 1999, November and December were both cooler and wetter than usual but February 2000 was very hot and dry.

Further heavy frosts occurred most mornings

last week not only in North East Victoria, but to as far north as Tamworth and in outback Queensland where Roma recorded minus 0.4 and Charleville minus 0.3 degrees - their first frosts for this year which was 10 days later than their first frosts for last year. This spell of heavy frosts does look set to continue up to this weekend.

The current mean minimum temperature to date in Wangaratta is now 2.8 degrees and by the end of May could be as low as 2005, 1912 and 1902.

Those three did lead to above average rainfall in June in North East Victoria.

Adelaide has gone through a very dry spell since the start of February right through to the fourth week of May.

The rainfall for this period is only 15mms which is easily the driest in 183 years of records.

The previous driest such period did occur in 2005.

The autumn of 2005 was very dry in North East Victoria and also warmer than usual by day, just like autumn this year.

Heavy rain fell during June 2005 and again in August and during the 2005 spring season; but apart from brief heavy rain on December 3, 2005 the summer and early autumn of 2006 was exceptionally dry and very hot in Wangaratta and at nearby towns the hottest since 1950-51.

It certainly does look like that 2025 will have a very warm start to the year but hopefully not follow the very dry trend of 2006.

state MP Tim McCurdy (MLA, Ovens Valley) at the Docker Street library, where they discussed the potential funding issue flagged by Public Libraries Victoria.

“Our library is a real hub for the community, and has adapted to community needs, expanding and value-adding to its service, but is always being asked to

do more with less,” action group spokesperson Jill Lindquist said at the time.

“I would really like to see a world where libraries are recognised for their worth.”

Councils currently provide around 80 per cent of the operational funding required to cover the daily running costs of libraries, according to council’s

peak body the Municipal Association of Victoria. Historically, library funding was shared 50:50 between the Victorian and local government.

Councils - meaning ratepayers - have to pick up the extra burden to maintain library services, or face cutting back on services.

PHOTO: Simone Kerwin

CHILLY: Wangaratta awoke to iced vehicles on Sunday, May 19, with the overnight temperature falling to minus 4.1 degrees.

PHOTO: Jeff Zeuschner

WHAT’S UP WITH THE WEATHER?

CSIRO climatologist

Nominations called to join local Gallery Acquisitions Panel

WANGARATTA Art Gallery is calling for nominations from the community to join the gallery’s acquisitions panel.

The panel provides advice and support to the gallery director in the consideration of works of art to be added to the gallery’s permanent collection; meeting three to four times a year at the gallery to consider proposed acquisitions.

Membership is comprised of professional practising artists and visual arts professionals from the broader region and is a voluntary position, with members selected for their relevant experience, knowledge and qualifications relating to the visual arts.

Tenure of the panel is four years from the commencement date.

Wangaratta Art Gallery collects works by state and national artists of significance and signifi-

cant works of art from and about the North East Victorian region.

The gallery has a particular collection emphasis on textile art which has been developed through the most significant acquisitive award for textile art in Australia, the Wangaratta Contemporary Textile Award, and celebrates Wangaratta’s important textile heritage and story.

The gallery also collects small sculpture and works in wood.

The collection was established by the Rural City of Wangaratta in 1980, well before the creation of the gallery, when council moved into new offices and needed to fill the building with art.

With the help of the Wangaratta Arts Council, the Wangaratta City Council Collection was established and has continued to grow over the years.

This collection is now managed by the gallery

and features the work of artists such as James Tissot and John Colin Angus, Lorna Chick, and V.R. Watt.

The Wangaratta Art Gallery’s collection started to be assembled informally after the gallery’s establishment in 1987.

In 2004, the Wangaratta Art Gallery Collection Policy was ratified by the city and since then, works have been regularly acquired into the collection.

Judy Cassab, Valerie Kirk, Mandy Gunn, Anita Laurence, Hannah Gartside, Lorraine Connelly-Northey, Kate Just, Ian Westacott, Paul Yore and Aida Tomescu are some of the artists whose work feature in the Wangaratta Art Gallery’s collection today.

To nominate, visit the Wangaratta Art Gallery’s website to complete the online nomination form at www.wangarattaartgallery. com.au with nominations closing on Friday, June 14 at 5pm.

A bird’s eye view of Ronan Holdsworth’s latest mural, featuring Australian icons

A BRIGHTLY coloured mural located down a laneway off Murphy Street has been capturing the attention of pedestrians and all those travelling along the main street of town.

It was created by local artist Ronan Holdsworth who has taken up residency at the Art Gallery on Ovens this year, where he recently held a solo exhibition. Featuring three stylised birds - a kookaburra, galah and kingfisher - Ronan completed the mural at the

BY ANITA McPHERSON amcpherson@ nemedia.com.au

end of summer and said it took about a week to paint, wanting to brightening up the otherwise dull fence and draw attention to the gallery.

“We are one of the only galleries in the region with a mural attached to it, and the only one in Wangaratta,” he said.

“The gallery has strongly supported street art - exhib-

iting artists like Tim Bowtell, myself and others in the region - and I’ve been friends of the gallery since it opened.

“We created a paste-up gallery at one stage in the laneway, involving all the resident artists, which was a lot of fun, even though it’s no longer there.

“It’s an ephemeral art form - if you paint a mural in a public place, you have to disengage with it as soon as soon as you finish - because it belongs to the public.”

Ronan is a visual artist who works in murals, digital painting, watercolour and acrylic paints, although he prefers not to limit himself and experiments with many different mediums.

His spectacular murals can be seen around town, often raising awareness about important issues including epilepsy and mental health.

See more of his work at the Art Gallery on Ovens, or visit Ronan Holdsworth Gallery on Facebook.

Kerryn is an Australian Textile Art Award finalist

AN artwork by Wangaratta textile artist Kerryn Taylor was selected as a finalist in the Australian Textile Art Award (ATTA) 2024 and is now being exhibited in Melbourne.

The ATTA is a biennial juried non-acquisitive award of $2000 which attracts entries of creative textile art from some of the best textile artists across Australia.

Artists were invited to enter recent, unseen works, and 39 artworks were chosen as finalists by the award’s three judges.

Kerryn’s selected work “Karijini Rockface #2” is a representation of the multicoloured strata of rocks in the West Australian National Park.

Kerryn said she was delighted to find out the artwork had captured the atten-

tion of the judges.

“I was trying some new techniques with silk paper to get a more textured surface than the usual smooth paper,” she said.

“I used water soluble fabric as a base and did a lot of hand and machine embroidery over and around the textured silk paper.

“It is the second time I have been selected into this biennial exhibition, so I was very happy.”

The winner of the ATAA 2024 award was an artist called Svenja for a work titled Aftermath, which referenced the fallen birds on King Island.

The ATAA exhibition is now on display at Embroidery House, 170 Wattletree Road in Malvern until June 2 and is open from 10am until 4pm daily.

NEW EDITION: A recent acquisition for the city’s collection by the Wangaratta Art Gallery is Andy Pye, Hogs with sow at Clear Creek, 2023, oil on canvas, 180 x 180cm. Purchased with support of the Wangaratta Art Gallery Friends Inc. 2024.

ON DISPLAY: Kerryn Taylor’s work Karijini Rockface #2 (pictured) is now featured in the Australian Textile Art Award 2024 exhibition showing at Embroidery House in Malvern.

OFF THE WALL: Local artist Ronan Holdsworth has created a beautiful mural at entrance to the Art Gallery on Ovens, down the laneway off Murphy Street. PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

Local violinist to feature in orchestra

By WENDIE WILKIE, Wangaratta Symphony Orchestra

SARAH Brindley will feature in Wangaratta Symphony Orchestra’s upcoming concerts.

Originally from the UK, she has lived in the Buckland Valley for the past five years, and works in senior management with the Rural City of Wangaratta.

While the violin is Sarah’s preferred instrument, she can also play the piano and bassoon.

She began learning the violin at age four, and played it throughout school and university and community orchestras.

After a 10-year break, her interest was sparked again when she joined a new orchestra in East London.

She has been playing in orchestras and groups ever since.

Sarah is also a member of the group, U Can Cry which is apart of Project 365, an initiative which raises mental health awareness in this region, and this is a passion of hers.

Not long after she moved to the Wangaratta area for work five years ago, she was delighted to hear that a symphony orchestra was starting ,and she joined the Wangaratta Symphony Orchestra, becoming principal violinist.

Sarah said it takes many hours of practice and lots of lessons to become a good player.

The role of principal violinist means Sarah heads up the string section of the orchestra and is leader of the first violin section.

She will feature as a solo player in parts of the Sailors Hornpipe and Scheherazade in the upcoming concerts, with its theme of water and music.

“There will be many pieces that people will know even when they cannot name them,” she said.

“The theme of water and music brings together pieces that are evocative and dramatic, such as Mendelssohn’s Hebrides Overture.

“By chance, in early June, I will be visiting the part of the west coast of Scotland near Staffa Island which was his inspiration for this music.

“If anyone is thinking of taking up playing a musical instrument, I encourage them to give it a go.

“Let others know of your interest and you might find that you can borrow instruments and there are

teachers around.”

Come and hear Sarah and the rest of the orchestra at their two concerts, at Beechworth on Sunday, June 23 and Wangaratta Performing Arts and Con-

vention Centre on Thursday, June 27. Book your tickets at https://www.wpacc.com. au/Whats-On/WangarattaSymphony-Orchestra-Symphony-of-the-Seas. pg

New Green Street bridge build starting

CONSTRUCTION works on the new Green Street bridge in Wangaratta will continue throughout June along with other works to the railway station.

As part of the Inland Rail works, McConnell Dowell will install drainage and utility, as well as works including excavations for the pedestrian stairs, ramp and lift shaft on the eastern side of the railway station.

A pump station for the pedestrian underpass will continue to be installed, along with stairs and fencing for the new western platform.

Works on the new Green

Street bridge will include concrete strengthening for the east abutment and footpath retaining wall and concreting spaying (shotcreting) on the west abutment.

Construction of a crane pad and deck superstructure assembly area will commence, in preparation for the upcoming lifting of the new bridge structure.

Inland Rail will also continue works in Glenrowan that will include pavement construction and asphalting on local roads and footpaths and landscaping and streetlight installation around the bridge and local roads.

Anti-throw screens and handrails will be installed on the bridge.

Removal of some site offices will also take place.

Traffic changes in the town include Siege Street becoming a no through road.

Vehicles will continue to use the new Beaconsfield Parade bridge.

Pedestrians will use the new bridge shared user path and temporary pedestrian pathway along Siege Street. Works are continuing to complete the connecting footpaths and provide improved access to Glenrowan’s key heritage sites.

DON’T MISS STAR PERFORMER: Violinist from the UK, Sarah Brindley will feature as a solo player in Wangaratta Symphony Orchestra’s upcoming concerts.

MUSIC TO MY EARS: Sarah Brindley, principal violinist for the Wangaratta Symphony Orchestra.

BRIDGE IS COMING: Works will take place in the construction of Green Street bridge in Wangaratta throughout June.

Anti-battery group supports landscape preservation plan

By LEAH ANDERSON-BYRNE

FRIENDS of the Kiewa and Alpine Valleys have voiced their endorsement for the Alpine Shire Council’s plan to seek support from the State Government for significant landscape overlays.

Alpine Shire Council last week pledged to work together with other North East councils to seek financial or direct support for more comprehensive significant landscape overlays in the region.

Alpine Shire chief executive officer Will Jeremy said council sees a significant link between land assessments and the transition into renewables.

“We feel exposed by the lack of significant overlays and the fact the government is running a process to determine where things might be sited,” he said.

“Our planning controls at the moment don’t provide an adequate oversight of where significant landscapes are and our concern is a decision will be made in the absence of that information.

“We will lead that collabo-

ration with other councils and, as a group, we’ll pitch our position to the state government.”

The pledge follows the Victorian Government’s recently declaration of renewable energy facilities as Significant Economic Development projects, removing third-party appeals from

their planning processes in an aim to meet Victoria’s renewable energy target of net zero by 2045.

Planning permits for renewable energy facilities, utility installations and associated subdivision will now be decided under a fasttrack planning process.

Friends of the Kiewa and

Anti-battery petition tabled in parliament

A PETITION sponsored by Nationals Member for Ovens Valley, Tim McCurdy, opposing the construction of Mint Renewables’ Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) has been tabled in Parliament with more than 1300 signatures.

“It is clear that there is a clear desire to protect agricultural land, not just from locals, but from visitors all around the state,” Mr McCurdy said.

“The community has banded together to gain more support and they have been rewarded for their hard work.

“This is a clear message to

ANTI-BATTERY: A protest sign near the site of the proposed BESS.

the government on renewables – you cannot place the burden solely on the country whilst leaving Melbourne pristine.”

The petition requested that the Legislative Assem-

bly of Victoria call on the Minister for Planning to reject the Dederang BESS due to widespread community opposition, as well as environmental, bushfire, and health concerns.

“Our understanding is that it is about declaring places such as Mt Buffalo and Falls Creek as areas of significance like the Grampians and the Great Ocean Road for example,” she said.

“Doing something like this may at least future proof our ridge lines from wind tower developments.

“Collaborating with other councils to make a pitch to the State Government sounds like a positive way to approach it.

“We understand the current significant landscape

overlays appear to only relate to the valley floors and not the mountains and forested areas.

“Mr Jeremy’s statement about our area being a beautiful place that many people visit and move to for the landscape is spot on.

“This is one of the facets that we have been focused on in our presentations.

“The liveability and amenity of rural lifestyle blocks will be heavily impacted by renewable energy infrastructure if it infiltrates our valleys.

“One of our deep concerns is that renewable energy companies are driving around our valleys trying to sign up landholders and give no consideration to the already existing significant landscape overlays; they just sign them up anyway.

“We are yet to see if this has an impact on the decision to approve planning permits by the minister, time will tell, and we have no right of appeal through VCAT.

“Our fight is about the future of our Alpine valleys as a collective.

“It’s not like they can ever be replaced.”

A winter of discontent?

By BRODIE EVERIST

THE Australian Workers Union (AWU) is applying for a protected industrial action ballot across Victorian alpine resorts, which may result in work stoppages by resort staff during the snow season.

The AWU recently announced that months-long negotiations between Alpine Resorts Victoria (ARV) employees and the statutory authority had stalled, alleging ARV was refusing to address employees’ lack of weekend penalty rates and overtime compensation for working

outside of daylight hours.

“This is, from the union’s perspective, a once-in-alifetime opportunity for the alpine industry to fix the discrimination they’ve faced in their award and in their enterprise agreements for decades, where they get inferior conditions to the rest of the workforce,” AWU regional organiser James Newbold said.

According to the AWU, most ARV employees receive no weekend penalty rates and no compensation for irregular shifts in extreme weather conditions.

A ballot of staff will close on June 25, in time for potential industrial action in the winter school holidays.

ARV chief executive officer Amber Gardner said ARV does not expect the ballot to impact holiday makers for the coming ski season.

“Progress in our discussions has been positive, with ARV’s approach being to harmonise employment terms and conditions for employees, by generally adopting the most generous provision from our current enterprise agreements for each entitlement,” she said.

LOVING LANDSCAPES: Friends of the Kiewa and Alpine Valleys spokesperson Sharon McEvoy, with group member Paul Ingram, supports council’s push for significant landscape overlays.

PHOTO: Brodie Everist

Alpine Valleys spokesperson Sharon McEvoy, said the group thinks it’s an excellent pitch.

Volunteers celebrate at morning tea

By CHLOE JAENICKE

NESAY celebrated the hard work of its volunteers at its Biggest Morning Tea last week.

The organisation has a number of volunteers who help out in many ways, including the youth advisory committee and L2P driving education program.

Jo Britton has been volunteering for the L2P driving program for around 10 years and has helped six L platers achieve their 120 hours of driving to earn their P plates.

Ms Britton said she enjoys spending time with the youth while she teaches them how to drive.

“It’s fun meeting the young people, you spend a lot of hours with them so you get to know them very well,” she said.

Ms Britton believes the L2P program is important as it allows L platers who would usually struggle to reach the 120 hours to get their driver’s licence.

“There are kids out there who cannot get their 120 hours to get their Ps because their parents work a lot or their parents don’t have vehicles,” she said.

“I grew up out of town, so I needed my licence and I actually turned 18 the year before they brought in the 120 hours.

“I know by the time I got my licence I wouldn’t have 120 road hours, that’s for sure.”

Ms Britton said volunteering plays an important role in the community and that

she encourages others to consider it.

“We always need volunteers, there’s a lot of mentors who are retired and eventually they can’t do it anymore,” she said.

Rachelle Bear has been a volunteer for the NESAY Youth Advisory committee,

a group of 16- to 25-year-olds who assist NESAY in making important decisions concerning youth since 2021.

“We have a meeting each month and we just go through some important topics that come through NESAY,” she said.

“We also do some leader-

ship training.”

Ms Bear believes volunteering is important as it’s a way to give back to the community and encourages others to do the same.

“I volunteer to provide my perspective on some things,” she said.

“It creates community and

connections and different types of opportunities.

“I think it’s important to have a network of people around you and you can be such an important part of someone else’s day through volunteering.”

To learn more about NESAY visit https://nesay.com.au/.

Friends enjoy morning tea to support Cancer Council Victoria

COMMUNITY members gathered at the Uniting Church Hall in Rowan Street when the Cancer Council Victoria Wangaratta Volunteer Group held its annual Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea event on May 23.

Group leader Barbara Thomas said it was a great morning, with around 70 people enjoying a cuppa and morning tea, while a display of aprons, tea towels and teapots was very well received.

Donations were still being tallied but its expected around $1000 will be raised from the event, which will go towards vital cancer research, support and education programs.

PHOTOS: Kurt Hickling

GIVING BACK: Rachelle Bear, Jo Britton, Paul Blythman, Dianne Blythman, Barb Crockett, Max Batey and Claire Anderson strive to help youth at NESAY.

CELEBRATING VOLUNTEERS: Claire Anderson and Brian Hargreaves celebrated volunteers at the biggest morning tea.

TRADITION: Volunteer Wendy Stephens ensured there were enough delicious scones for everyone.

CONVERSATION: Pam Neal and Judy Field also enjoyed the social occasion.

TOGETHER: Gloria Clewer and Lorraine Cameron were among those supporting the cause.

SUPPORT: Amelia Edwards and Marion Sinclair caught up at the event.

GATHERING: Jennie Lindrea, Judy Hammersley and Chris Harvey enjoyed the morning tea.

COMMUNITY: Abbey Waide, Donna Smedley, Elliot Rowles and Doreen Wessel came along on the day.

SOCIAL: Rosalie McKenzie and Trish Gooch enjoyed a cuppa.

VOLUNTEERS: Helping out on the day were Robyn Dunstan, Linda Cork and Heather Champlin.

Junior Reporter Club

ACROSS

GENERAL KNOWLEDGE CROSSWORD

1 Name a legendary magician and seer (6)

8 Name a church musician (8)

9 What is a very small domestic fowl (6)

10 What is a plume of feathers arranged as a head ornament (8)

11 To be ruddy is to be what (6)

12 On which WA river is Perth situated (4)

13 What are props or braces (5)

16 Name a Union general in the American Civil War; Ulysses S. ... (5)

19 Which expression implies sorrow or grief (4)

21 What is an outing or excursion (6)

22 Name an extended musical composition (8)

23 What is a term for something not level or flat (6)

24 What are either ends of square sails (8)

25 Name an annual Christian festival (6)

DOWN

2 What is an ornamental shoulder piece worn on uniforms (7)

3 Name a form of public worship (7)

4 What are wanderers known as (6)

Letters

5 Name a pendant lobal ornament (7)

6 What is a narrow passage or duct formed by disease or injury (7)

7 Who denies the existence of God (7)

13 What is a word having nearly the same meaning as another (7)

14 Which term describes matters of public interest (7)

E-QUATIONS

15 What is a metal urn used for heating water (7)

17 What is a childhood desease characterised by softening of the bones (7)

18 Name an artless simple remark (7)

20 What is a marriage partner known as (6)

Find the following words in the grid. They may be read in any direction, even diagonally. Some letters are used more than once.

1 QUIESCENCY (a) Inactivity (b) Any trifling nicety (c) Squeamishness

2 STYPTIC (a) Drawing together (b) Like a style or bristle (c) Fragrant

Build it yourself using the clues and each of the twenty-four letters once only to form ten words: five across and five down. A key word (bold clue) builds on the letter set in the grid.

CLUES:

Afro hairstyle (abb) (3)

Brisbane (coll) (7)

Entertainer: Elvis ... ... (7)

Insects (5)

Large fruit (5)

Limb (3)

Metal (3)

1/100th of an Indonesian rupiah (3)

Ready for action: red ... (5)

US actor: ... Wells (5)

Milk price optimism for new dairy season despite no autumn break

LOCAL dairy farmers are bracing for next month’s milk price announcement by Dairy Australia for the next 12 months.

Processors have a June 1 deadline, set by by the federal government’s mandatory dairy code of conduct, to release their prices.

Prices over the last 12 months averaged $9.20 per kilo milk solids in the region with the figure being consistent over the last three years.

Saputo has kicked off the bidding season with a potential weighted average opening farmgate milk price of between $7.80-$8.00 per kilo milk solids.

Bega is still to announce its prices, with other major processor - New Zealandbased dairy giant Fonterra - not expected to publish prices given its shock announcement earlier this month that it is putting its Australian operations up for sale.

Whorouly dairy farmer Jon Pethybridge, who runs 300 dairy cows on the family’s 1000 acre farm, believes the upcoming price announcement on June 3 will be competitive, making a choice of milk processor.

“Right now milk processors are remaining quiet despite Saputo making an early announcement and the recent announcement of New Zealand company Fonterra that they are selling,” he said.

“Processors are scrambling to crunch numbers and keep the trend on a financially viable road.

“Fonterra being up for sale will be a 12 to 18 month process.

“It supplies 90 per cent of New Zealand’s milk and is the biggest exporter in the world.

Wangaratta Livestock Exchange -

BY KURT HICKLING khickling@ nemedia.com.au

“There will be allot of negotiation with the change, however, there will be no cause for panic for dairy farmers as there is still plenty of competition.

“The sale of Fonterra will not have any form of impact on the milk price announcement.

“Dairy farmers who have been loyal to Fonterra will be taken under the wings by other processors moving forward.

“Previous years has shown that the month of June is usually hectic with processors jostling for milk.

“Honestly I can see more settled prices ahead compared to previous years.

“North East milk production has remained stagnant producing 200-230 million litres of milk per year which is positive as the dairy industry is very stable in our region.”

A big concern for dairy farmers right now is the lack of rain with no sign of the autumn period giving any form of relief making it tough on farmers financially.

“A lack of rain is really putting a squeeze on farmers pockets as we have to outlay extra costing in feed to the cows,” Mr Pethybridge said.

“We can still get good milk prices but our farm will still feel the pinch with the extra expense of feed until the rain arrives.

“There is no rain in sight for the next two weeks or so which means we have to continue hard feeding to keep the production of milk going.”

Rabobank forecasts more milk this season and next

RABOBANK’S most recent report forecasts Australian milk production to finish the 2023/24 season 2.9 per cent higher at 8.23 billion litres.

An early look at the 2024/25 season – to commence on June 1 – sees the bank forecasting a further one per cent increase in milk production ahead.

The report said Australian

dairy exports volumes, however, had remained weak, down six per cent season-to-date, as at the end of February.

Local Australian milk pricing is set to be “somewhat positive” for the new season, Rabobank said, with a well-performing domestic market and healthy competition among dairy companies continuing to be key drivers.

Little rain

Milk production growth is expected to carry momentum into the new season, with Australian dairy farmers generally on a strong footing as the new season approaches.

“Feed availability is adequate following good winter and summer crops and full water storage will also ensure availability of irrigation water,” the report said.

is forcing local crop farmers to adopt new tactics

By KURT HICKLING

WHETHER or not winter crop forecasts for local producers come to fruition hinges solely on imminent rainfall.

The autumn break period has nearly come to an end with no significant rainfall, forcing farmers to scramble and alter their usual strategies.

According to the Bureau of Meteorology, the Wangaratta region had 26mm of rain in April and 3mm of rainfall so far in May, which farmers say is not near enough to sustain their cropping plans.

AG Warehouse agronomist Bec Bingley, based in Wangaratta, said the autumn break has been very frustrating, with the lack of rain seeing many farmers change up tactics to ensure they have a productive yield come spring.

“Broadacre producers are not worried at the moment but certainly not happy with how the season has panned out,” Ms Bingley said.

“As an agronomist, I have had to help farmers change their seed variety to suit the conditions due to the lack of rainfall in the form of dry seeding and a later yield.

“The long-range forecast shows little to no rain until July which is concerning.

“No one knows when significant rainfall will come, but for now it’s a waiting game.

“Farmers overseas have experienced a very dry and unproductive season which means if local farmers can get off the ground, this will maintain or increase cereal prices and demand in Australia and locally come October.

“But for now we really are in limbo and it’s simply a waiting game.

“Tactics have been put into place with current conditions as farmers have dry

seeded a portion of the farm and hold off with the remainder of sowing until rain arrives so there is moisture in the subsoil to apply seed in a better environment.

“Looking forward, crops will be harvested later than usual this year due to a slow start with the overall yield hinging on rainfall in the coming months.”

The bureau has forecast rainfall this Thursday and Friday with totals between 10-20mm, however, followup rain is needed for farmers to get their crops off the ground.

OPTIMISM: Dairy farmer Jon Pethybridge believes milk prices will remain competitive.

PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

GAMECHANGER: AG Warehouse agronomist Bec Bingley aids farmers in weather tactics for cropping. PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

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Journalist

Career Opportunity

Full Time

North East Media, an award-winning publisher of community newspapers, has a full time position for a graded journalist based in our Myrtleford office in North East Victoria.

We are seeking a journalist with previous country newspaper experience to produce our weekly Myrtleford Times and Alpine Observer, servicing the picturesque Alpine Shire communities of Myrtleford, Bright and Mt Beauty.

The position requires a journalist with a strong work ethic and well-rounded skill set, who has a passion for community newspapers and a real desire to work with volunteer contributors.

Excellent writing, editing, photographic, communication, time management and organisational skills, and the ability to generate ideas into relevant news coverage that matters most to a local readership, will be among your strongest attributes. The ability to use social media and deliver high quality work under deadline pressure are also a must.

The successful applicant must also have a valid driver’s licence.

North East Media is an independent media group publishing award winning publications in print and online across North East Victoria and beyond. Applications, including covering letter and resume, should be forwarded to:

Jeff Zeuschner Group Editor North East Media jzeuschner@nemedia.com.au

PRODUCTION OPERATOR

Full time opportunity

An opportunity has arisen for a production operator to join one of Victoria and NSW’s leading independent news and media groups, based at our Wangaratta and digital properties across our group.

The successful applicant will be responsible for producing newspaper layouts, pre-pressing pages for print, and basic IT troubleshooting. Skills and Experience

• (InDesign, Photoshop, Illustrator)

•

• and to tight deadlines

digital channels, including websites, be advantage but is not essential.

an energetic and stimulating environment, we would encourage you to apply.

Applications should be forwarded to: Kelly Lovell Creative Services Manager North East Media Pty Ltd klovell@nemedia.com.au

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WANGARATTA Chronicle photographer Melissa Beattie made her way down to Lavington Sports Ground to caption some action from the Under 14s AFL NEB LaTrobe Junior Football Carnival. Photographs can be purchased at the Chronicle.

HENRY ACKERLY

ARCHIE SYMONS

NATE O’KEEFE

AUSTIN MORRIS

ARCHIE DUNN

JAMES WELLBORNE

KADE ELY

NOAH WHITE

MITCHELL MURPHY

MAX McMAHON

KIERAN WHITE

LENNY SIMS

INTERLEAGUE

on court: Kelly Davidson (GV)

17s: GVL 44 def by O&M 64 Best on court: Molly Moylan (O&M) UNDER 15s:

GVL 36 def by O&M 49 Best on court: Lane Draper

IN THE CONTEST: Ovens and Murray’s Will Christie (right) contests the ruck during the interleague senior match between O&M and Goulburn Valley at Deakin Reserve on Saturday. PHOTO: Dale Mann

WINNERS AND LOSERS

GOALS: BRIGHT: Cooper Thomason 5, Dylan Bursill 4, Alexander Dalbosco 1, Samuel Dalbosco 1, Mikka Paulsen 1, Luke Quirk 1 GRETA: Frazer Judd 5, James McClounan 4, Tom Baker 2, Lachie Kennett 2, Brenton Newbold 2, Jack Kelly 1. BEST: BRIGHT: Luke Quirk, Dylan Bursill, Mikka Paulsen, Samuel Dalbosco, Alexander Dalbosco, Joe Gray. GRETA: Mark Wettern, Jack Kelly, James McClounan, Joshua Bell, Lachie Kennett, Bryce Ralph.

BENALLA

A GRADE:

Benalla 32 def by Tarrawingee 85

Moyhu 58 def Goorambat 47

King Valley 56 def Nth Wangaratta 25

B GRADE:

Benalla 27 def by Tarrawingee 68

Moyhu 34 def Goorambat 29

B RESERVE:

Moyhu 47 def Goorambat 22

C GRADE:

King Valley 65 def Nth Wangaratta 47

Benalla 12 def by Tarrawingee 80

Moyhu 41 def by Goorambat 63 15 & UNDER:

King Valley 16 def by Nth Wangaratta 24

Benalla 28 def Tarrawingee 8

Moyhu 45 def Goorambat 7

ROUND 10

SATURDAY, JUNE 1

BONNIE DOON vs NORTH WANGARATTA

GRETA vs KING VALLEY

MILAWA vs GOORAMBAT

MOYHU vs BRIGHT

WHOROULY vs TARRAWINGEE

BENALLA - BYE

GOALS: BENALLA ALL BLACKS: Tom Levy 2, Dylan Bell 1, Sam Cox 1, Dylan Sinclair 1, Jordan Smith 1. TARRAWINGEE: Sam Piper 2, Patrick Byrne 1, Will Creed 1, Chris Penney 1, Thomas Salmon 1, William Styles 1. BEST: BENALLA ALL BLACKS: Chelton Orchard, Patrick McDonald, Kieran Linke, Tom Levy, David Nero, Sam Cox. TARRAWINGEE: Will Creed, Sam Piper, Tyler Heywood, William Styles, Patrick Byrne.

VALLEY

WANGARATTA

GOALS: KING VALLEY: Ben Bray 2, Stuart Cooper 2, Anthony Ciancio 1. NORTH WANGARATTA: Jack Brown 3, Damien Bradley 2, Jhye Devine 2, Tyler Nanson 2, Jonah Massey-Chase 1, Josh Nanson 1, Matthew Prestianni 1, Tyler Schulze 1.  BEST: KING VALLEY: Ben Bray, Bradley Collihole, Connor Shanley, Sam Evans, Joel Burchall, Thomas Stewart. NORTH WANGARATTA: Sean Gales, Jay Barker, Adam Enever, Thomas Johnson, Kyle McQuade, David Killen.

MOYHU 1.1 2.7 3.10 5.14.44

GOORAMBAT 8.3 11.6 13.8 15.11.101

GOALS: MOYHU: Noah Campbell 2, Harrison Bell 1, David McDonald 1, Darby West 1. GOORAMBAT: Duane Haebich 9, Dylan Beavis 2, Lachlan Boyle 1, Angus Burston 1, Brayden Stepien 1, James Webster 1. BEST: MOYHU: Bailey Zimmermann, Jett Roberts, Liam Cook, Matthew Thrum, Ethan Rooney, Dylan Carmody. GOORAMBAT: Curtis Anker, Sully Malay, Lachlan Boyle, Duane Haebich, Dylan Beavis, Alexander Moloney. WHOROULY 0.1 1.2 3.4

GOALS: WHOROULY: Andrew Newton 3, Glenn White 1. BONNIE DOON: James Fox 4, Connor Humphrey 3, Sean Campitelli 2, Jayjay Curtin 2, Conor Heaslip 2, James Law 2, Luke Murray 2, Campbell Smedley 2, Jack Goonan 1, Cody Turner 1. BEST: WHOROULY: Andrew Newton, William Allen, Edward Bramich, Cameron Wood, Glenn White, Darcy O’Shannessy.. BONNIE DOON: James Law, Ari Croxford-Demasi, Matthew Hedin, James Fox, Luke Murray, Luke Berriman.

Daniel Bryant, Brenton Doig, Todd Wapling, Lawrence Richards, Shaun Lemmer.

Whorouly .................11.6.72

Bonnie Doon ...........18.6.114

BEST: WHOROULY: Daniel White, Darcy Allen, Brannan Duffy, Thomas Rowney, Jake Morey, Conner Forde. BONNIE DOON: Al Bennett, Trent Smith, Matthew Martin, Luke Benton, Samuel Bennett, Patrick Revell.

BRIGHT: Nicholas Hall,

GOALS:

Bihun

Isaac Dickinson

Oscar Clelland 1, Harry McMonigle 1,

Roberts 1, Harry Stripeikis 1. BEST: GOULBURN VALLEY LEAGUE: MacKenzie Calleja, Nicholas Jephson, Zaydan Leocata, Riley Northcott, Caden Ratcliffe, Kye Jeffery. OVENS AND MURRAY: Max Bihun, Ty Quade, Justin lewis, Isaac O’Neill, Connor Hetherton, Connor Howells.

Darcy Martin, Marcus Kinthari, Steve Nightingale, Paul Harrison. GRETA: Tom Webster, Stewart McLeod, Jeremy PopeMercieca, Charlie Hernandez, Samuel Monaghan, Ben Monaghan.

Bats push into top four with a win over Hoppers

GOORAMBAT senior footballers widened the gap on Moyhu with a convincing 57-point victory over the Hoppers at Moyhu Recreation Reserve on Saturday.

With just one win separating the two sides going into the O&K league clash, it was Goorambat who flexed their muscles to win 5.14 (44) to 15.11 (101).

Bats coach Ben Wapling said his side’s eight goal to one first quarter was as good as his side has been this season.

“Our first quarter was one of the best we’ve played,” Wapling said.

“We started well against Bonnie Doon and played a good half there but our first quarter on Saturday was as good as we’ve had all year.

“We weren’t going to take Moyhu lightly so the boys came out firing which was good to see.

“Moyhu were really competitive after the first quarter so it was good that we got off to a fast start.”

A nine goal bag from Bats forward Duane Haebich proved to be a point of difference, while Curtis Anker

BY WILLSON MACK wmack@ nemedia.com.au

was also prominent for the winning side.

“Duane’s been great this season,” Wapling said.

“He played for me when I was coaching at Benalla All Blacks years ago and he kicked 100 goals in a season then so he knows where the big sticks are.

“He’s come into our side this year and I just wanted him to teach our forwards some structures and things like that but he’s been really solid.”

Anker was outstanding in the backline taking numerous intercept marks.

“Curtis is such a solid backman and he was definitely our best,” Wapling said.

“If he’s not taking marks he’s breaking packs, he took a few intercept marks when the ball was coming in pretty hot.

“He’s been huge for us in the absence of Sam Gladstone who’s overseas at the moment.

“He’s a different player to

Sam but he’s doing a great job.”

Wapling said he was pleased with the pressure his side brought.

“Our pressure was the most pleasing thing from the win,” he said.

“Our pressure has been good all season, it never stops and we’ve been complimented by other sides on how good it is.

“We probably just let ourselves down with skills and making the wrong decisions at times but we’ll learn and get better at those things.”

The win puts the Bats into fourth position, setting up a mouthwatering clash with Milawa next weekend who sit in fifth with the same 5-3 record.

“We’re happy with how we’re going, we’ve worked hard to get where we are,” Wapling said.

“Last season we won three games so to be sitting in fourth with five wins is a good effort and we just want to continue to learn and improve.

“We’ve now got a massive game against Milawa next weekend who have a similar record to us.”

Blue’s move into second spot on O&K ladder by inflicting Mountain Men’s first defeat

■ From back page

“James is such a great player, he’s an elite kick and hits the scoreboard as well.”

But while Greta’s guns were strong, Dube was pleased with his role players the most, particularly backman Jack Baker.

“I think the most pleasing part of the game was the jobs a few of our boys did on their players,” Dube said.

“Jack Baker played on Cooper

Thomason who’s such a handy forward and I though Jack nullified him pretty well.

“Cooper still kicked a few but all great forwards will and I’m sure if you asked Cooper how his day was he’d admit it was a hard day.

“Those efforts are what you love as a coach, you love the players who lean in and do the selfless things for the betterment of the team.”

For Bright, Dylan Bursill kicked four goals of his own and

Luke Quirk was strong.

The win sees Greta push above Bright into second position on the ladder with Bonnie Doon now the only undefeated side in the competition.

The Bombers strengthened their hold on top spot with an emphatic, percentage boosting win over Whorouly, 21.15 (141) to just 4.4 (28).

Bombers’ star James Law did plenty of damage, while James Fox kicked four majors and Connor

Humphrey booted three of his own.

Meanwhile, Tarrawingee managed to record a 34-point win over Benalla All Blacks at Friendlies Oval.

The Dogs led at every change, keeping the Panthers goalless in the third term, to run away to a 6.14 (50) to 12.12 (84) victory.

Tarrawingee’s Will Creed was prominent, while Sam Piper was solid kicking two majors.

For Benalla All Blacks, Chelton Orchard was named his side’s best

and Tom Levy was the only multiple goal-kicker for his side with two goals.

At Whitfield Reserve North Wangaratta cruised to a 53-point win over King Valley.

Hawks’ Jack Brown booted three majors and was well supported by Sean Gales and Jay Barker who won plenty of the ball in the 5.8 (38) to 13.13 (91) clash.

For the Roos Ben Bray was strong with two majors.

ON THE BOOT: Bailey Zimmermann, pictured getting a kick away, was Moyhu’s best on Saturday.

QUICK STEP: Noah Campbell tries to get past his opponent.

BIG BAG: Duane Haebich kicked nine goals in Goorambat’s 67-point win over Moyhu.

PHOTOS: Kurt Hickling

CLASSY: IN SPACE: Lachlan Boyle finds space.

O&M drop a 28-point lead to fall to GV INTERLEAGUE

OVENS and Murray interleague senior footballers were stunned by the Goulburn Valley League at Deakin Reserve on Saturday.

After winning the last three affairs of the Ash-Wilson Trophy, the O&M were expected by most to make it four successive wins but it was the GV League who stood tall to post an 8.15 (63) to 7.6 (48) win.

The O&M looked as good as ever to start the game, flying to a 28-point lead at the four-minute mark of the second quarter, but the GV League rallied to kick eight of the next nine goals.

Wangaratta Rovers star ruckman Will Christie impressed on the big stage, named best for the O&M, while teammate Brodie Filo also featured in the best.

O&M coach Damian Sexton was disappointed with the loss post-match.

“It’s always disappointing (to lose) and that’s just sport,” Sexton said.

“In any sport we play there’s a winner and a loser and I said to the boys that the biggest thing is when you don’t win you have to be humble in defeat.

“Credit where credit’s due, GV were hungrier and they

BY WILLSON MACK wmack@ nemedia.com.au

wanted it more than us.”

The O&M fielded one of their youngest sides in recent years with 11 players featuring at interleague level for the first time.

“The most disappointing part for me was that I put some faith into some younger players that I was excited about and thinking where their footy would go from this opportunity,” Sexton said.

“Yeah a couple of them did okay but there were a few that have a fair bit to do.

“We gave them an opportunity to see if they could do it and arguably, and collectively as a team, we let GV beat us.”

It was the GV’s first win against its strongest country rival since 2010, with the O&M winning in 2017, 2022 and last year.

“I think the biggest thing in sport and life is that when something doesn’t go your way you’ve got to accept it and move on and become better for it,” Sexton said.

“There’s a lot of people that will sit on the fence and

won’t do anything about it or there’s people who believe they’ve done it but they haven’t.

“I said to the boys good for you for putting your hand up and making the effort but we’re second today and we have to hurt from it.”

Sexton said he’s honoured to coach the O&M after playing an illustrious representative career himself.

“I had great times in footy and especially rep footy, I met a lot of great players and played with some superstars so I just want to give a bit back,” he said.

“I don’t want to be sitting on a fence and telling people what to do, I want to get in there and do it.

“I have the opportunity to do that thank god to the O&M and it’s been fantastic until today but we prepared as good as we could, we can’t blame anything else but GV were desperate and wanted it.

“We’re all competitive so at the end of the day, why do we do it? Basically to give back and meet new people but we all want to win.

“The drive home tonight hurts dramatically because you think what if, should’ve we, could’ve we but that’s just part of life.”

U18 victory

O&M’s U18 interleague team had a convincing win over Goulburn Valley at Deakin Reserve on Saturday. O&M led at every change to run out winners 11.8.74 to 7.4.46.

Wangaratta Magpies’ forward spearhead Max Bihun bagged five majors and was named best a field, while Wangaratta Rovers’ Justin Lewis who captained the team was also among his team’s best.

Rovers’ Oscar Cleeland and Harry McMonigle also kicked a goal each, as did Magpies’ Oscar Roberts.

Magpie Hugh Canning and Rovers’ Harvey Correll were also in the winning team.

O&M’s junior netballers win, open team goes down

By WILLSON MACK

THE O&M’s future is bright with the under 17 and under 15 interleague netball sides recording victories over the Goulburn Valley League at Deakin Reserve on Saturday.

In the under 17’s, Jodie House steered her side to a pulsating 64-44 victory.

Wodonga’s Molly Moylan was judged best on court, while Kijana McCowan (Albury), Zali Macklan (Raiders) and Lily McKimmie (Wodonga) were also rewarded for their efforts.

Shaylah House’s under 15’s made history winning the first ever under 15 interleague match by 13-goals.

Wangaratta Rovers rising star Lainey Draper was named best on court in the 49-36 win.

“Everyone in our team was very nervous at the start but once we got into it it was great,” Draper said.

“I tried my hardest, I don’t know that I personally would’ve given this (best on

court) to myself because the girls in our team were amazing but I’m very proud.

“Lucy Tinkler played extremely good, she’s a great shooter and also I think Chloe Richardson did amazing too.

“Being on the court it was really intense but once we got in front the nerves went down and our team con-

joined and were really good.

“Normally we play against each other but we got to know each other so well during training and it was just such a great experience for everyone.”

Meanwhile, the open netball side was unable to make it a clean sweep as they went down by five goals in a close encounter.

“There’s lots of disappointment when you’re in it to your eyeballs for that whole game and to get four or five goals in front at different stages of the game,” O&M senior coach Noel Halton said.

“To go down in the end is very disappointing but to the girls credit they never stopped trying all day and

that’s all we can ask for.

“I said to them this morning to go out there and give it your best shot which they all did.

“They conducted themselves beautifully out there but unfortunately we just didn’t get that goals that we needed in the end.”

Halton felt that his side made a few critical errors at

pivotal times of the clash.

“At the end there were just a few little fumbles and they (GV) got some decisions that went their way which helped them out,” he said.

“And then there were a couple of key turnovers in pivotal times that swung the momentum and they took their opportunities.”

RISING STARS: The O&M’s under 17 interleague netball team beat the GV by 20-goals.

INTERLEAGUE WIN: The winning O&M under 15 interleague side that beat the GV by 13-goals.

LEADER: Rovers’ Brodie Filo was the O&M’s vice-captain for the affair.

PHOTO: Dale Mann.

QUICK HANDS: Rovers’ Jace McQuade looks to dish a handball off during the O&M’s interleague loss to Goulburn Valley at Deakin Reserve on Saturday. PHOTO: Dale Mann.

GRETA senior footballers

recorded their most impressive win of the season thus far as they handed Bright their first loss of the season. The Blues were hot from the get-go with their 21-point lead at the first change setting the tone

TOUGH LOSS FOR OVENS & MURRAY

WANGARATTA Rovers’ stars Will Christie, with ball in hand, and Brodie Filo, were among the Ovens and Murray Football League’s best during their interleague clash against Goulburn Valley in Shepparton on Saturday. But the O&M went down by 15-points after leading by as much as 28 points in the second quarter.

REPORT page 19.

BY WILLSON MACK wmack@

for a 13.1 (81) to 16.7 (103) victory at Pioneer Park Reserve on Saturday. It was a battle of arguably

the O&K league’s two best forwards in Greta’s Frazer Judd and Bright’s Cooper Thomason with both sharp shooters booting five each.

Greta coach Chris Dube was stoked with his side’s performance.

“We highly rate Bright,

they’re such an honest outfit and we knew it was going to be a test, especially travelling to Bright which adds another layer,” Dube said.

“We jumped out of the blocks and kicked seven and then held a one, two or three goal lead for most of the match.

“I was super pleased that when Bright had a resurgence and were coming we managed to hold them off and ice the game in that last quarter.”

Greta superstar James McLounan was outstanding booting four goals from the midfield, well supported by

big man Mark Wettern.

“You have your coaching structures and things for those tight last quarters but at the end of the day it’s your James McLounan’s and Josh Bell’s who get the job done,” Dube said.

■ Continued page 18

PHOTO: Dale Mann