Wangaratta Chronicle 270923

Dan Andrews steps down as Victorian Premier

By RYAN MALCOLM

DANIEL Andrews has announced he will step down as Victorian Premier, after nearly nine years in the state’s top job.

The 51-year-old, who originally hails from Wangaratta and attended Galen College, will quit politics altogether from 5pm this evening after 13 years as the Victorian Labor leader, leaving a role which he described as “the honour and privilege” of his life.

Having first assumed the seat of Mulgrave at the 2002 election under the Bracks Government, Mr Andrews rose through the ranks to be named party leader in 2010, and was in charge as Labor was successful at the 2014 election, at which time he was named premier.

His Labor Government was subsequently re-elected in 2018 and again in 2022, despite heavy scrutiny around the government’s handling of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Mr Andrews said through the good and the bad, his government had sought to do “what’s right”.

“As much as we’ve achieved together, there’s so much more to do,” he said.

“Recently, in talking to my kids and (wife) Cath, thoughts of what life will be like after this job have started to creep in – and I’ve always known that the moment that happens, it’s time to go and to give this privilege, this amazing responsibility to someone else.”

Mr Andrews said the role had consumed him throughout recent years.

■ Continued page 2

Fire danger plea

CFA urging public to refresh rating knowledge ahead of increased bushfire risk ggpgg

WANGARATTA and district residents are being urged to refresh their knowledge of the state’s fire danger ratings, ahead of forecast ideal conditions for bushfires throughout the region during the summer months.

With drier, hotter conditions expected as a result of the recently-announced El Nino weather pattern,

BY RYAN MALCOLM rmalcolm@ nemedia.com.au

CFA officials are calling on residents in fire-prone areas to familiarise themselves with the new four-tier warning system, which outlines moderate, high, extreme

and catastrophic fire risk.

The dry conditions have already prevailed throughout the Rural City of Wangaratta, with rainfall figures for September to date (9.4mm) on track to be Wangaratta’s lowest in a century.

Wangaratta-based CFA District 23 acting assistant chief fire officer Mark Narayan said it was impor-

tant residents understood there had been a shift in the region’s fire risk in the wake of a three-year wetter La Nina weather phenomenon.

“We don’t want complacency to step in – we’re fire prone in Victoria and I think most people would know that,” he said.

“This is the second year we’ve had our new Australian

Fire Danger Rating system, and this is a national system so it is meant to be simpler for everyone to understand.

“You need to know what they (the ratings) mean and what to do if a fire takes hold – for example, if we get to extreme, fires are going to spread quickly and be extremely dangerous… we’re going to expect hot,

dry and windy conditions.

“We’ll need people to take action to protect their life and property, check their bushfire plans, take immediate action, move to a safer location if you can, consider your travel through bushfire risk areas, and we need to leave bushfire risk areas early in the day –that’s your safest option.

■ Continued page 2

STEPPING BACK: Victorian Premier and former Galen College student Daniel Andrews, pictured at Brown Brothers a year ago, has announced he will be leaving politics as of 5pm this evening.

PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

Public help sought for arrest warrant

POLICE are appealing for public assistance to help locate Wangaratta man Brandon Unthank (pictured).

Several warrants have recently been issued to arrest the 22-year-old, who is known to frequent the local area. Anyone with information on Mr Unthank’s whereabouts is urged to contact Wangaratta Police on 03 5723 0888, Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or make a confidential report via www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.

Est. 1884, Incorporating Wangaratta Despatch, Est. 1861

WEATHER

Dan Andrews steps down as Victorian Premier, leaving politics

■ From page 1

“The only way that I know how to do this job is to have it consume me, to have it de ne me – to a certain extent, every waking moment is about the work, and that takes a toll,” he said.

“To have been premier for nine years and the leader of my party for 13 years is a greater

set of opportunities than I ever thought would be a orded to me, a kid from the country, with only really an aspiration to do good, to work hard, to work with teams of people to hopefully make things better.”

A successor to Mr Andrews is set to be decided today, with current deputy premier Jacinta Allan ($1.20) the odds-

on favourite ahead of Ben Carroll ($4.50), Lily D’Ambrosio ($9) and current AttorneyGeneral and Benalla-born Jaclyn Symes ($10) according to Sportsbet.

Monash University senior lecturer in politics, Dr Zareh Ghazarian, said whoever was elected would have a challenging task ahead of them.

“Whoever nds themselves replacing Andrews has a lot of work ahead of them,” he said.

“Attracting voters who were not fond of the Andrews leadership style, as well as rejuvenating a party that is nearing 10 years in government, will be major challenges for whoever becomes Victoria’s next premier.”

MP takes aim as footy falls by the wayside

By RYAN MALCOLM

THE State Government’s continued advertisement of free TAFE programs has been labelled “hypocritical” by Ovens Valley MP Tim McCurdy, in the wake of a decision to discontinue the Wangaratta-based ‘The Academy’ football program.

The program, which was coordinated from TAFE campuses at Wangaratta and Essendon by former Richmond AFL star Alex Rance, announced it would cease at the end of this year, leaving year 11 students currently enrolled in the program scrambling to nd another option.

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Mr McCurdy said GOTAFE’s decision to stop providing support for registered training organisations (RTOs) such as The Academy had exposed the government’s e orts to gut programs to fund their free TAFE initiatives.

“The government loves to talk about how they are delivering free TAFE, yet at the same time are slashing other programs and refusing to support RTOs,” he said.

“It is the peak of hypocrisy to say that you are making education cheaper and more accessible, when at the very same time you are taking it away from others.

“The government, and the minister, should be ashamed of this despicable behaviour.”

The Academy,” she said.

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Mr Rance has since said he will be joining the coaching sta of former Richmond coach and newly-appointed Gold Coast Suns leader Damien Hardwick in the wake of The Academy’s closure.

students and their families and we would like to acknowledge the work of everyone involved in this pioneering program over the past seven years,” the spokesperson said.

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A GOTAFE spokesperson said the institution had been exploring options with The Academy to continue the program since 2021, and was now liaising with students, parents and sta to nd future education options for the a ected students.

“This decision does not diminish the hard work of all sta ,

According to Minister for Training and Skills Gayle Tierney, the decision to forego The Academy had not been in uenced by the State Government.

She said more than $4b had been invested in the TAFE system since 2014 to address a program which had been “brought to its knees” by the former Liberal Government.

“As this is not a government decision, all queries should be directed to either GOTAFE or

“GOTAFE will continue to support the wellbeing and educational future of the students a ected and will continue to explore options so students can continue their studies.

“We’re making sure every Victorian has access to the training they need for the job they want – that’s why we invested more than $540m in TAFE in the Victorian budget 23/24, so everyone can get the skills they need to embark on a great career or re-train into growing industries.”

Mr McCurdy said RTOs were an important part of the tertiary education landscape.

“The courses that are being cut means there are fewer opportunities for students to pursue the eld they are passionate about, such as the boys passionate about footy at the Rance Academy,” he said.

“This will lead to them being forced into a box or down a pathway that they do not want to go down.

“Then we will see more disenfranchised students, which will lead to a drop in results, and a lack of direction.

“Just because the government can’t a ord to fund their ‘free’ courses does not mean they should destroy the pathways and dreams of others.”

CFA urges public to refresh rating knowledge ahead of summer

■ From page 1 “That’s in an extreme (rating) before you get to a catastrophic, so people need to download the VicEmergency mobile app, be in contact with the CFA website and be prepared.”

With the North East’s re danger period expected to be imposed as early as next month, Mr Narayan said now was the time for residents to begin preparing their properties.

He said simple measures such as cutting back grass, keeping wood piles away from the house, cutting back overhanging branches and using pebbles or rocks around your garden could limit your risk in the event of a re.

“We need people to prepare their properties – res can destroy houses through embers, heat and ame,” he said.

“A personal dislike of mine is putting garden

mulch up against houses – you’re basically putting fuel to a re right next to your house.

“They’re basics, they’re common sense basics about preparing your property.”

For more information about the re safety ratings, visit https://www. cfa.vic.gov.au/warningsrestrictions/total-firebans- re-danger-ratings/ about-fire-danger-ratings.

STAY WARNED: CFA D23 sta er Rod Railton (pictured last year) showcased the new fire danger rating system.

NOT GOOD ENOUGH: Wangaratta-based Ovens Valley MP Tim McCurdy is disappointed The Academy is ending.

COINCIDING with sunny spring weather in the midst of the school holidays, the reopening of Wangaratta’s Merriwa Park in the wake of a closure spanning more than two months has been a cause for celebration for the park’s regular users.

The popular space was closed in July after council received arborist advice that 10 red gum trees were identified as a high or extreme risk of falling.

Users returned to the park in droves on Friday as the space reopened for the first time in 75 days, with many enjoying a picnic or a stroll in warm conditions while avoiding three cordoned off trees which have been slated for removal.

At the weekend, Wangaratta Lawn Tennis Club members also returned to their facilities for the

Driver’s conduct applauded in wake of CBD crash

A DRIVER who rear-ended a taxi in Wangaratta’s CBD has been lauded for his honesty in taking steps to repair the damage caused.

The 34-year-old faced Wangaratta Magistrates Court on Tuesday, pleading guilty to a single charge of careless driving after he crashed into the rear of a local taxi as it attempted to turn into Wangaratta’s Holy Trinity Cathedral from Ovens Street last December.

The court heard the accused had exited the nearby roundabout and collided with the stationary taxi, which had been preparing to turn right near the Cenotaph, with the force causing the victim’s head to bounce off the inside of the taxi’s windscreen.

The victim was taken to Northeast Health Wangaratta, where he was treated for a minor laceration to his head, the court heard.

The defendant told police during an interview in February he had failed to pay attention after exiting the roundabout, and said the taxi had “come out of nowhere”.

“I don’t think I fell asleep, but I definitely had some lapse in attention,” he told police at the time.

BY RYAN MALCOLM rmalcolm@ nemedia.com.au

first time since the closure, playing on manicured grass courts which were able to be curated once per week during the closure in the wake of a detailed risk assessment.

Club president Barry Sullivan said it was pleasing to get back on the court after an extensive lay-off.

“We worked quite closely with council to make sure they understood the impact of not being able to keep our curator down there and (to) do the fundamental maintenance required to keep our surface a very high level,” he said.

“We’ve always said, even as

community members and not just as tennis club members, that it’s an incredibly picturesque area, and I know if you were to travel around the world and visit a park like that or a tennis club situated in a park like that, you’d be the envy of the world.

“Sometimes I think we undervalue how good it really is and the feedback and comments from people who come all the way from Melbourne to play in our tournaments and competitions is that it’s just a privilege to be down there.

“Obviously we’ve got to make it safe for people, but at the end of the day I think there are always ways we can make it safe and not change the ambiance of the area too much.”

The park is also a popular lunch spot for community members,

and chief executive officer of nearby St Catherine’s Hostel, Adrian Johnstone, said the re-opening of the park for spring was a positive outcome.

“I would have thought the park being reopened for everyone is going to be great,” he said.

“It allows them to get out of St Catherines, whether it’s a staff member or a resident or a family, it gives people a bit of greenery around them to go and sit and relax.

“Every time I’ve gone down there on the few occasions, there’s always plenty of people either lunching or relaxing or doing nothing, and I think even for people driving through the town, there’ll be a lot of visitors who will go down there and have a bit of a break.”

Judicial registrar Sally Wilson said the accused’s reason for the collision had been “refreshingly honest”, and noted the same honesty must have been perceived by police, who had initially offered the man a diversion from the judicial system.

The diversion was ultimately refused due to the accused’s history of driving offending.

The defendant said the crash was a “silly mistake” which “shouldn’t have happened”, and noted he was currently following a payment plan to repair the damaged taxi.

Ms Wilson said the defendant’s conduct with police was to be commended.

“Importantly you’ve made good the damage to the taxi – or you’re in the process of doing so,” she said.

“Well done on your attitude with police.”

She did not convict the defendant, and ordered he abide by a good behaviour bond for the next 12 months.

HOME AMONG THE GUM TREES: Paula Eustace met with Val and Shane Gleeson and cat Jasper at Merriwa Park yesterday, as community members continue to return to the park in the wake of a lengthy closure.

PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

Securing city’s ‘future needs’

Wednesday, September 25, 2013

A MAJOR RACV project will turn its attention to Wangaratta.

The RACV is undertaking the Regional Growing Pains Project, which aims to explore the transport, road and infrastructure priorities needed to cater for regional areas’ future needs.

RACV manager public transport and mobility Thanuja Gunatillake said Wangaratta residents were strongly encouraged to get involved in the project.

“Wangaratta’s population is set to hit 31,600 residents by 2031, up from 29,000 today and RACV wants to make sure that this growth is planned for and infrastructure is upgraded to cater for future needs,” Ms Gunatillake said.

“The RACV Regional Growing Pains project will explore what is required to keep Wangaratta moving into the future, and we want to hear from the community about the public transport, road, footpath and bike facility improvements that are needed.”

Ms Gunatillake said the project followed from the 2012 Growing Pains report which identified 159 public transport and road projects needed in outer Melbourne and Geelong, and RACV was keen to identify regional needs now to avoid similar issues in other

INVESTIGATING NEEDS: RACV manager roads and traffic, Dave Jones, has encouraged Wangaratta residents to participate in a survey.

at the Wangaratta RACV Shop.

“RACV will also be speaking to the Rural City of Wangaratta and community groups as part of this project.”

Boost to Indigenous sporting participation

FIRST Nations athletes in Northern Victoria are set to have more opportunities to compete in their favourite sports, courtesy of a new grants initiative backed by the State Government.

Local Indigineous sport communities can now apply for the program, which provides grants for travel, participation in sport carnivals, uniforms and equipment.

Victorian communities.

RACV manager roads and traffic

Dave Jones said that as part of the Regional Growing Pains project, RACV engineers would be visiting Wangaratta on October 8.

“Wangaratta residents are encouraged to come to the RACV Shop in Templeton Street on October 9 to discuss their transport priorities with us,” he said.

“We’ve also established an online survey, at racv.com.au/ regionalsurvey which is open to everyone.

“For those without a computer, a hard copy survey can be picked up

Mr Jones said the scope of the project was large, but noted there were many issues affecting regional Victorians.

“Our members in regional Victoria regularly raise concerns about congestion, poorly maintained roads, inadequate public transport and limited footpath and bike facilities,” Mr Jones said.

“The RACV Regional Growing Pains project aims to feed these concerns into a comprehensive report which will help inform government about the projects and investment needed in Wangaratta and other communities.”

The program offers grants of up to $2500 per junior team and $1500 per senior team towards travel and accommodation costs for participating in Victorian or national Aboriginal sporting carnivals, as well as up to $1000 to cover uniforms and equipment.

Eligible individuals can also access up to $250 per person to purchase uniforms and equipment, and up to $750 for travel and accommodation expenses.

Northern Victoria Labor MP Jaclyn Symes said the program had the capacity to significantly boost participation.

“This program is about giving northern Victoria’s First Nations sport stars the support they need

DRIVING PARTICIPATION: Northern Victoria MP Jaclyn Symes has urged local Indigenous individuals and groups to apply for sporting support.

to get in the game and shine,” she said.

“I encourage local Indigenous organisations, sporting clubs, participants, volunteers and communities to take advantage of this program and help nurture our next generation of champions.”

Applications are open until October 20.

For more information or to apply, visit sport.vic.gov.au.

Cheshunt street works reach the halfway mark

By ANITA MCPHERSON

WORKS to enhance the township of Cheshunt are at the halfway mark, with the west side of the streetscape project now complete.

While initially experiencing delays due to wet weather, the Rural City of Wangaratta advises pavement reconstruction has taken place on the west side, with drainage and kerb and channel installed.

Part of the King Valley Prosecco Road Revitalisation Project, which also included the recent streetscape works in Whitfield, project manager Tatum McMonigle said the Cheshunt component will see drainage improved, better car parking (with a focus on catering for large vehicles), landscape improvements and shared paths for pedestrians and cyclists to provide a safer and more pleasant environment.

“We’re now progressing on the east side installing kerb and channel and pavement reconstruction, with works anticipated to be completed in late November,” she said.

Council received $4M in funding from the Victorian Government as part of the King Valley Prosecco Road Revitalisation Project towards the township enhancements, along with the creation of an adventure playspace and visitor hub in the main street of Whitfield (currently being installed), a shared walking and cycling path connecting the townships, and the installation of

gateway entrance artworks in Oxley and Whitfield.

Council advised last week that due to delays in the cultural heritage assessment, environmental assessment and requested design changes by the road authority, the construction of the shared path from Dal Zotto Wineries to Gentle Annie Lane is now anticipated to commence in late January, 2024. A tender has been conducted for

the King Valley Prosecco Public Art Commission for the gateway entrance artworks and Ms McMonigle said a total of 44 submissions were received from international and Australian-based artists and designers.

Ms McMonigle said council’s public art acquisitions panel shortlisted the submissions to three artists and designer teams, who were engaged in a concept design process and

Secure your premiership poster

By SIMONE KERWIN

A PREMIERSHIP poster designed by Herald-Sun cartoonist Mark Knight is the ultimate souvenir for any AFL fan celebrating a flag.

And those who purchase a poster through Wangaratta and district Good Friday Appeal coordinator Alex Carmody will also be contributing to local support of the Royal Children’s Hospital.

Collingwood and Brisbane fans keen to get their hands on a poster celebrating their team if it wins Saturday’s grand final - as well as general footy memorabilia collectors - can leave their details with Alex to secure the memento within a week.

Proceeds from sale of the posters will count towards Wangaratta’s Good Friday Appeal total for 2024.

asked to submit a response to the brief.

“After a robust selection process was followed, guided by council procurement process and best practice public art delivery, a preferred design has been selected and approval processes are currently underway,” she said.

“More details about the exciting design will be announced within the next few weeks.”

Official grand final posters of the VFL/AFL premiers have been published by the Herald and Weekly Times for 70 years, and 2023 marks the 15th year the posters have been created by the talented Knight.

To register your interest in a poster, simply contact Alex Carmody on 0428 120 310.

The next round is on November 4th. Enter: wintonraceway.com.au/events

HALFWAY THROUGH: Works are now underway on the east side of the thoroughfare through Cheshunt, with machinery on site and traffic controls in place.

PHOTO: Anita McPherson

Support the game and a worthy cause

LOCAL winning supporters should have extra incentive to secure memorabilia of their team’s ultimate glory on Saturday’s AFL Grand Final this year.

Each year Herald-Sun cartoonist Mark Knight designs a premiership poster for the winning team, with Lions and Magpies fans sure to be wanting the first bit of memorabilia to savour their win.

The posters are also a major fundraiser for Alec Carmody and the Wangaratta and District Good Friday Appeal, providing invaluable dollars for the Royal Children’s Hospital Appeal.

Whether you’re a Collingwood or Brisbane supporter or not, donations towards a worthy cause like the Royal Children’s Hospital should serve as a reminder that no matter the result of Saturday’s match, there is higher stakes than the games being played on the footy field.

Besides, the historic piece of memorabilia as reward will be a much sought after product and with Christmas closer than you think, the poster will be a great gift, especially with countless passionate Collingwood fans in the area.

The celebratory posters should also serve as a reminder to ensure your own premiership party doesn’t go out of hand this year.

If you’re attending a large gathering Saturday afternoon, practice responsible drinking habits with designated drivers, respecting property and neighbours.

Fans keen to get their hands on a poster celebrating their team if it wins Saturday’s grand final - as well as general footy memorabilia collectors - can leave their details with Alex by contacting him on 0428 120 310 can secure the memento within a week.

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

The Australian QuizNo.43

1 Jamaica gained independence from which country in August 1962?

(a) United Kingdom

(b) United States

(c) Cuba

(d) Netherlands

2 In the poem, The Owl and the Pussy-Cat, some honey and plenty of money were wrapped in what?

(a) A five-pound note

(b) A ten-pound note

(c) A one-pound note

(d) A two-pound note

3 Brisa Hennessy represented which country at the 2020 Summer Olympics in surfing?

(a) Costa Rica

(b) Portugal

(c) Peru

(d) Israel

4 If your birthday is on the 4th of June, what star sign are you?

(a) Leo

(b) Taurus

(c) Virgo

(d) Gemini

5 The song, Something, written by George Harrison, first appeared on which Beatles album?

(a) Help!

(b) Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band

(c) Abbey Road

(d) Magical Mystery Tour

Newspapers help us understand history

ONE day while looking at hard copies of the Wangaratta Chronicle Despatch for information about the Parsons family in my hometown, I came across a 1938 report titled “The aborigine problem..Address by Mr J McEwen MHR to Holy Trinity Study circle.“

Some context for this.

Wangaratta is host to the cathedral church for the Diocese of Wangaratta.

The Holy Trinity Cathedral stands on land traditionally under the stewardship of the Bpangerang people.

Sir John McEwen from 1967 to 1968 was the leader of the Country Party, the forerunner of today’s National party, and went on to serve briefly as the 18th prime minister of Australia after Harold Holt died.

In 1938 he was Minister for Internal affairs in the Lyon Government so he knew more than most about the Aborigine problem as he fulfilled this role.

The newspaper report of McEwen’s talk to the church people reads in part:

“What are we going to do with these people?

There is a dual responsibility of Government and Church.

The greatest present need is the creation of a public consciousness that there are 70,000 aborigines still left, who are not getting a fair deal in a land of which they have ben dispossessed by 7,000,000 whites.”

So why 85 years later are we still working out what to do about a fair deal for our fellow Australians?

I can think of reasons.

There was government instability, PM Lyons died the following year.

A world war followed this creating very serious national concern for the next six years.

So McEwen’s desire to create a big public consciousness never got a chance.

Then getting a fair deal was put on hold post war as baby booming parents like mine enjoyed post war prosperity.

My parents sent me to Sunday school and I was confirmed in that Holy Trinity Cathedral church in the 1950s.

Even if the adults I had contact with there had attended McEwen’s talk and remembered what he told them needed to be done, I would have been too young to explain it to.

This is why a Yes vote and Voice in the constitution is so important for me.

Sir John McEwen had the best of intentions but circumstances stopped his initia-

6 Honolulu is located on which island of Hawaii?

(a) Kauai

(b) Oahu (c) Hawaii (d) Maui

7 Robin Boyd is best remembered for his work in which field of the visual arts?

(a) Architecture

(b) Painting

(c) Sculpture

(d) Photography

8 Which TV series starred Geoffrey Palmer as Lionel Hardcastle?

(a) Yes Minister

(b) Peep Show

(c) The IT Crowd

(d) As Time Goes By

9 What were the first two teams to score over 300 points in total during the 2022 Super Rugby Pacific regular season?

(a) Reds and Waratahs

(b) Blues and Chiefs

(c) Crusaders and Hurricanes

(d) Brumbies and Rebels

10Which two people served as Deputy Prime Minister of the United Kingdom during 1997?

(a) Michael Heseltine, John Prescott

(b) John Prescott, Geoffrey Howe

(c) Michael Heseltine, Nick Clegg

(d) Geoffrey Howe, Nick Clegg

tive and his good idea was forgotten.

But having an active voice put into the constitution ensures this cannot happen again.

Barry Parsons, Wangaratta

Federal Government stalling on road funding

THE Albanese Government is putting lives at risk on our local roads because of stalled safety projects and a failure to deliver the funding our communities have been promised.

Halfway through the Albanese Government’s term, local council and community groups have no idea if vital road safety and infrastructure projects will ever proceed, thanks to an incompetent Minister.

The Minister for Infrastructure and Transport Catherine King has been a huge disappointment for local councils which rely heavily on Federal Government grants to help fund major projects.

Should we be surprised about this failure to deliver any new projects given this year’s budget speech didn’t contain a single mention of the word ‘infrastructure’?

Instead of guaranteeing funding for projects, Minister King announced a 90-day review of the Infrastructure Investment Program but conveniently excluded all Labor election promises from the process.

More than 150 days later, we still haven’t heard the outcomes of the review and communities are waiting to find out whether the funding which was promised, and included in the previous government’s budgets, will ever be delivered.

Nothing is getting cheaper by waiting, and when the Minister finally makes some decisions, there’s no doubt that local council community projects will need to be re-scoped, and less road safety initiatives will be undertaken.

So we are in limbo as Australia experiences a spike in road trauma, and motorists endure pot-holed roads, while the responsible Federal Minister ponders her review.

Darren Chester, Shadow Minister for Regional Development

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Chiefs

(a) Michael Heseltine,

ADRIFT: See an exhibition of artworks by Milly Quin at the Art Gallery on Ovens this week. Including oil paintings, digital drawings and photography. It is open Thursday through until Monday and entry is free.

PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

Man found in possession of child pornography fined $3000

A WANGARATTA man found in possession of pornography depicting children as young as six years old has linked the offending to a period of depression amid an ongoing PTSD diagnosis.

Appearing before Wangaratta Magistrates Court on Monday, the 74-year-old pleaded guilty to possessing and distributing the material, often using his own personal Facebook account to share images and videos.

According to police prosecutor Senior Constable Victoria Lennon, a cyber tripline had identified 11 instances of child abuse material being uploaded via the accused’s social channels between January and October of 2021.

The Facebook account was linked to an email address bearing the accused’s full name and birth year.

The court heard Wangaratta-based Sexual Offences

Carrying the torch for Legacy

TWO local men, Bob Hayward of Wangaratta and Alan Garside of Myrtleford, were privileged to participate in the Legacy Torch Relay in Bendigo last Thursday, which commemorated the 100th anniversary of Legacy.

Both are members of the Wangaratta Myrtleford Bright Group of Melbourne Legacy.

The torch relay began in Pozieres France and travelled to England where it was re-lit outside Buckingham Palace with King Charles in attendance.

VC winner Daniel Keighran then presented a commemorative torch to the King.

The torch has now travelled more than 40,000 kilometres and will end its journey in Melbourne on October 12.

The relay in Bendigo was preceded by a mayoral reception at the Bendigo Town Hall on Wednesday night.

Mayor Cr Andrea Metcalf welcomed the participating torchbearers and was herself a torchbearer for the final stages the next day.

When the torch reached the city square wreaths were laid and several key people spoke.

The carrying of the torch is very symbolic for Legacy members as it is a major part of their logo and signifies the undying flame of service and sacrifice of those who gave their lives for their country.

Legacy itself was founded 100 years ago to assist the widows and children of deceased and incapacitated soldiers.

A TRIBUTE TO LEGACY: Bob Hayward of Wangaratta (right) and Alan Garside of Myrtleford participated in the Legacy Torch Relay in Bendigo last week.

and Child Abuse Investigation Team (SOCIT) officers had searched the defendant’s home in September of 2021, and confiscated six electronic devices believed to be storing child abuse material.

The man was interviewed and made full admissions to possessing almost 250 illegal photos and videos, most of which police believed had originated in Asia.

A number of videos de-

1 X DOUBLE PASSES (2 TICKETS)

Wangaratta Performing Arts & Convention Centre Thursday 5 October 7:30pm

For more information and tickets contact the WPACC on 03 5722 8105 or www.wpacc.com.au

Experience an evening of sparkling Mendelssohn and powerful Mozart with the MSO and Cybec Assistant Conductor Carlo Antonioli. Awestruck by the towering columns of rock and the rushing water at Fingal’s Cave on a visit to Scotland’s Hebrides islands, Mendelssohn wrote his evocative overture depicting the monumental beauty and forces of nature he encountered. Ever the pioneer, Mozart wrote his Clarinet Concerto for basset clarinet – an instrument with a wider range than the existing clarinet enabling greater dramatic and musical variation. The only problem was that the instrument this beloved concerto through new ears as MSO Principal Clarinet David Thomas performs on this rare and extraordinary instrument.

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An Evening with the MSO 37 Rowan Street Wangaratta VIC 3677

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picted children between the ages of eight and 10 years old, with some estimated to be as young as six.

The defendant told police five other Facebook accounts of his had previously been shut down amid links to child abuse imagery, and had further shared around half of the 30 child abuse files he had received from other members of groups on Facebook and WhatsApp.

He told the court he was ashamed of his behaviour.

He said he had been placed on “full dosage” treatment for PTSD in 2019, and “wasn’t (himself) after that period”.

“I suffered a lot of PTSD and depression from service in the military, which is no excuse,” he said.

“This is very, very out of character for me.”

Magistrate Peter Mithen said the offending was par-

ticularly serious, and noted the defendant’s further distribution of the material would “fortify that market”.

“It’s in the serious realm of activity,” he said.

However, he noted the defendant had sought psychological assistance, and was currently undergoing treatment for cancer.

Mr Mithen convicted and fined the man $3000, and committed him to the sex offender register for 15 years.

Winton Wetlands search continues on foot

By RYAN MALCOLM

THE search for missing Chesney Vale man Hayden (pictured) has been scaled back in recent days, after emergency crews from across the state initially searched the Winton Wetlands area earlier this month.

The 40-year-old was last seen near Lakeside Drive, Chesney Vale on September 8, with police helicopters and boat rescue crews joined by SES, CFA, ambulance and DEECA resources turning over the wetlands, Lake Mokoan and Chesney Vale areas in recent weeks. A police spokesperson said the search was ongoing, but noted crews were now largely working on foot to locate Hayden.

The 40-year-old Aboriginal man is described as being 184cms tall with short black hair, and was last seen barefoot and wearing dark clothing. Property owners have been urged to check their properties thoroughly, particularly those with outbuildings and sheds on farming properties.

Anyone with information on Hayden’s whereabouts is urged to contact Benalla Police Station on 5760 0200.

WANGARATTA BOOK CIRCLE

Great spring reading options

The latest book recommendations with PAULINE MONCRIEFF, The Book Circle

THE September gathering of The Book Circle was held on Wednesday, September 13 and a variety of books were shared.

FICTION

Judgement Day, by Mali Waugh

A Family Court judge is murdered and there are many possible murderers - a disaffected client, a ruthless competitor for the top job? Read it to find out.

Many hidden truths are revealed as the story progresses.

The Melbourne setting is an added delight, with wellknown streets and locations described in detail.

The Collector, by Daniel Silva

The brilliant Gabriel Allon is now in retirement, but with the theft of a priceless painting and the murder of the owner, he is enticed back to solve the two crimes.

This is Daniel Silva’s latest book in the series.

Dream Town, by David Baldacci

This is Baldacci’s latest novel in the series featuring Aloysius Archer, a private investigator, or ‘gumshoe’.

The others are One good deed and A gambling man.

Archer is a likeable hero, honest, brave and increasingly worldly.

Baldacci is a superb storyteller, and a general favourite among our group.

The Wolf of the Plains, by Colin Iggulden

A novel giving a thrilling account of the life of Genghis Khan, who grew up surviving great hardships and became the feared tribal leader of the Mongols.

Over My Dead Body, by Jeffrey Archer Enjoyable. (reviewed previously)

The Chasm, by Bronwyn Hall

An atmospheric and thrilling page-turner.

The author will be visiting Edgars on October 7.

Force of Nature, by Jane Harper

Ten members of a Melbourne firm embark on a team-building hike in a remote area.

The men go one way, the women another. Then one of the women fails to return.

This is a real page-turner, with the landscape playing a central role.

Thursdays at Orange Blossom House, by Sophie Green

Three Cairns women decide to join yoga classes, for different reasons, and their lives are changed forever.

Fans of Maeve Binchy will enjoy Sophie Green’s novels.

Death in the Dordogne, by Martin Walker Bruno is a former soldier

turned policeman, who enjoys a bucolic existence in the glorious South of France, until murder and intrigues interrupt the tranquillity.

There are sixteen books in the series, starting with Death in the Dordogne.

The latest novel is A chateau under siege

Three novels by Holly Throsby - Goodwood, Cedar Valley and Clarke

The novels’ titles are the names of the neighbouring towns in which the mysteries are set.

The ordinariness of these towns, where residents all know each other, is well conveyed, as are the shocking events that occur in each.

The Best of our Spies, by Alex Gerlis

A novel centering on the Allied invasion of Normandy in 1944.

It is a time of heightened tension, with intrigue and counter-intelligence, the work of the French

Saturday November 25th 2023

Resistance, and a possible Nazi spy forming elements of the story.

This is fiction based on real events.

A Heart Full of Headstones, by Ian Rankin Rebus has retired, but has no hobbies, so he still keeps investigating crimes, although he has no authority to do so.

He is fond of turning up at police stations uninvited and dropping tidbits of information that could help detectives solve a crime.

Autumn, by Ali Smith

The first in a ‘seasonal’ series of four novels by this Scottish author, playwright, academic and journalist. Described in the Guardian review as ‘a beautiful, poignant symphony of memories, dreams and transient realities…’

A Short History of Tractors in Ukrainian, by Marina Lewycka

A humorous novel, in

which Nicolai, aged 84, marries a much younger Ukrainian migrant, and we see the reaction of his two daughters, who are brought together by this disturbing event, after being estranged for some time.

No Great Mischief, by Alastair McLeod

The migration of a Scottish family and their subsequent lives in Canada.

The story is told in the context of real historic events in Scotland and Canada.

Suddenly One Summer. by Fleur McDonald

A rural romance, set in a farming community of Western Australia.

When Brianna is three years old, her mother mysteriously disappears, and her body is never found.

In adulthood Brianna is now farming the same plot of land when her son goes missing, and she needs to deal with some disturbing truths.

Where the River Runs, by Fleur McDonald

A rural mystery, told by one of the best writers of Australian rural fiction.

Ten years before, Chelsea Taylor had left the small town of Barker and the family farm, to become a concert pianist.

Now she has returned home, with a four-year-old daughter, and must face her father.

An uneasy truce develops, and then long-hidden family secrets come to light.

NON-FICTION

Women to the Front: The Extraordinary Australian Women Doctors of the First World War, by Heather Shand and Ruth Lee

Women at that time had to overcome many obstacles to train as doctors.

Many travelled overseas to study in Europe or the UK.

There were also obstacles to serving on the battlefield.

The British War Office flatly refused to let women serve, as they were ‘not required for the war effort’.

Undaunted, some doctors went to Belgium in 1914, just after the outbreak of war, where there were many wounded soldiers, and refugees who had fled their homes and were living in appalling conditions.

Laura Forster, daughter of the man for whom Forster, NSW is named, studied in Switzerland, and her special expertise was surgery. With her skills, she was invaluable on the battlefield.

In later life, two women who had served in the war became important advocates for child welfare in Victoria.

They were Dr Vera Scantlebury Brown and Isabella Younger Ross. Isabella, who came from Warrnambool, set up the first Baby Health Centre in Victoria.

The Warrnambool Maternal and Child Health Centre in Fairy St is named in her honour.

Wangaratta Performing Arts & Convention Centre Friday 6 October 10am

For more information and tickets contact the WPACC on 03 5722 8105 or www.wpacc.com.au

This performance by the MSO is designed for primary age children with an interactive concert discovering sights and sounds of the orchestra. Join the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra in an exploration of Mendelssohn’s Symphony No.4. Throughout this highly interactive concert, young students will explore Mendelssohn’s incredible work through active participation and listening whilst discovering the sights and sounds of the orchestra. They will be transported to the art, landscape and the people of Italy with Cybec

Assistant Conductor Carlo Antonioli and presenter Karen Kyriakou.

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Wangaratta Chronicle MSO for Kids: Making Menselssohn 37 Rowan Street

Wangaratta VIC 3677

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Entries Close: 5pm Monday October 2

Underpass, bridge takes shape after major works

By BAILEY ZIMMERMANN

ARTC Inland Rail’s extensive 60-hour track work possession is over with major construction progress made, including precast concrete sections forming the new Wangaratta Station underpass.

With the Melbourne to Sydney line closed from Saturday to Monday, almost 200 workers from the Australian Rail Track Corporation (ARTC) and contractor McConnel Dowell worked around the clock to complete a large works program and returned the line to operation today.

Over the last three days large scale construction activity was carried out at the Glenrowan, Wangaratta and Barnawartha North sites.

At the Wangaratta Railway Station, the existing rail track and station platform were cut, the new underpass was dug out with 30 trucks removing 6000 tonnes of soil and 30 pre-cast concrete sections forming the underpass passageway installed.

In Glenrowan a 750-tonne crane lifted 16 pre-cast concrete beams into place to form the bridge over the rail corridor.

ARTC Victoria and South Australia general projects manager, Ed Walker, said the 60-hour possession of the North East Rail Line was successful.

“Importantly, the ARTC Inland Rail team and our contractors McConnell Dowell delivered the work safely,” he said.

“We work hard to keep the disruption around the sites to a minimum and we thank the local communities for their patience and understanding as we carry out the construction tasks.”

The large scope of work in Wangaratta will continue for a further day, closing the railway station until tomorrow.

Wangaratta passengers are advised to check with V/Line for alternative travel arrangements.

2023 SUPPORT PACKAGES

COMMUNITY FRIEND

An acknowledgment of support, with listing of thanks in press and through digital spaces

DEDICATED EDUCATOR:

Sr Anne Boyd during her time as principal of Wangaratta’s Galen College. She was the first head of the amalgamated St Joseph’s College, Champagnat College and Galen College.

Former Galen College principal farewelled

By SIMONE KERWIN

FORMER Galen College principal Sr Anne Boyd was farewelled yesterday in Springvale, following her passing on September 12.

Sr Anne was a Brigidine Sister who served as the first principal of the amalgamated St Joseph’s College, Champagnat College and Galen College from 1983 to ‘87, when year seven and eight students were based on the Ryley Street campus and years nine to 12 were in the current location.

Sr Anne took the helm at Galen College from Brother Ross Keane, and was succeeded in 1988 by Max Fletcher, who was the first lay principal appointed to lead the school.

A notice from Galen College following Sr Anne’s passing remembered her as an “experienced and dedicated educator who had a love of learning”.

The Brigidine Sisters described her as “gifted, creative and a compassionate Brigidine woman, who generously shared her deep passion for Earth”, and the order celebrated her gifts “as an educator, leader and a woman of wisdom”.

A celebration of Sr Anne’s life was held in Springvale yesterday, followed by her burial.

The service was livestreamed via Tobin Brothers website.

$100 $1000 $5000 OUTDOOR CO-SPONSOR

CORPORATE FRIEND

An ability to highlight your business or group as a contributing friend, with decal for window, logo use and digital & press highlights

An opportunity to be a part of the branding for our outdoor space built to celebrate both the blues and the community, including stage mentions, logo use and full press inclusion

The Last Hurrah:

2 X DOUBLE PASSES (2 TICKETS EACH)

Wangaratta Performing Arts & Convention Centre Thursday 5 October 10:30am

For more information and tickets contact the WPACC on 03 5722 8105 or www.wpacc.com.au

A Romantic Romp through Post WW2 Melbourne!

The surprise discovery of his mother’s 1946 diary leads three-time Barry Award nominee Damian Callinan on a cinematic, romantic romp through post-war Melbourne. However, her diary poses more questions than it does answers.

With suitors lining up for 19-year-old Kathleen Purcell, will Jack Bowlen ever get the Canadian two step right? Will Ron Rogan keep his hands to himself? But most importantly for Damian’s very existence, will she active service?

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Double Feature by Damian Callinan competition

37 Rowan Street Wangaratta VIC 3677

Full Name: Address: Email Address: Entries Close: 5pm Monday October 2

TAKING SHAPE: The Beaconsfield Parade bridge at Glenrowan saw 16 pre-cast concrete beams put into place to form the bridge over the rail corridor.

LINED UP: Workers assembling the pre-cast underpass section at Wangaratta Station.

Community spirit shown at R U OK? Day morning tea

MEMBERS of the community came together to enjoy morning tea and embrace the spirit of R U OK? Day at the Wangaratta Library recently.

The event was hosted by the Rural City of Wangaratta and designed to encourage social connectedness - inspiring everyone to engage in conversation with their loved ones and let them know you care - which could make a world of difference to someone who is struggling with life.

For more information including tips on how to ask the important question, visit ruok.org.au.

The only family owned funeral home in Wangaratta.

5722 2525 (All Hours)

Brown named new chair of North East Water authority

LONG-TIME director at North East Water (NEW), Stephen Brown, has been appointed to the role of board chair.

He has been a board member since 2015, and deputy chair since 2018, and has extensive corporate governance, audit, financial and technology experience, having held senior positions in the banking and finance industry for over 30 years.

He joins fellow North East Water directors Angela Verde and Victoria Schmidt, who were both first appointed in 2019, as returning board members.

In other appointments, Johnny Murray, who has successfully fulfilled the role of independent board delegate for the past year, will join the board as a full director.

Mr Murray is a proud Duduroa and Yorta Yorta man and former Koorie liaison officer at Wodonga Institute of TAFE. He has extensive experience

working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities across the country and has held positions at Boys to the Bush, Sunshine Coast University, Albury City Council, and Department of Education and Early Childhood Development.

Jennifer Fraser has also been appointed a director and she brings to the role significant board, public administration, planning, water and catchments experience.

She is currently the Victorian Environmental Water

Holder Commissioner. Outgoing chair is Cath Botta and director Chris Mirams, whose terms conclude on September 30.

Ms Botta recently announced her retirement from the board after 11 years of service to North East Water and the Victorian water sector.

“Cath’s inspirational leadership, her technical expertise in agriculture and soil science, and her commitment to community engagement has helped drive many positive outcomes for North East Water over the years,” managing director Jo Murdoch said.

Ms Murdoch also praised outgoing director Mr Mirams for his passion, skill and commitment to NEW.

NEW’s new board, from October 1, will comprise Stephen Brown (chair), Rosemary Bissett, Angela Verde, Victoria Schmidt, Jonathan Green, Leanne Mulcahy, Cris TopfnerRigby, Johnny Murray, Jennifer Fraser and Jo Murdoch.

John & Christine Haddrick welcome their daughter Kat to their team.

• Fay Ramsay, Megan Earl, Neil Ramsay and Jackie England.

• Kartik Sritharan and Luis Barros.

• Colleen Perry-Van Derheyden and Bree Cashman.

• Bek Nash-Webster and Matt Debreceny.• Cr Harry Bussell and Amie Newman.

• Nikki Sheppard and Nadine Dowler.

• Celeste Raeburn and Virginia Cator.

• Kirsten Campbell and Bernadette Edwards.

• Bek Nash-Webster and Clare Tucci.

• Rural City of Wangaratta councillors Harry Bussell, Ashlee Fitzpatrick and mayor Dean Rees.

STEPPING UP: Stephen Brown steps up to North East Water board chair position.

Entries open for 2023 King Valley Art Show

AFTER a successful return to the scene last year, the King Valley Art Show 2023 will once again be held over the Melbourne Cup Weekend.

Hosted by partner King River Brewing, the show will run from November 4 to 6 following the ever-popular gala opening on Friday, November 3.

King Valley Arts has also announced this year’s judge will be Kyneton-based portrait artist and Archibald finalist, Daniel Butterworth.

Committee member Megan Star said entries are invited in categories including oil/acrylic, pastel, watercolour/gouache, printmaking and works on paper.

She said with major support-

Free concert for Seniors Festival

BY ANITA McPHERSON amcpherson@ nemedia.com.au

ers such as Hargraves Secured Investments, King River Brewing, Pizzini Wines, Superaxe, RBA Financial Group and BankWAW - along with several generous patrons and friends - prize money is once again in excess of $15,000.

“The King Valley Art Show would like to welcome our new elite supporter BankWAW; the customer-owned local bank coming on board as supporter for the long standing printmaking award, which was won last year by artist Sam Reiher,” she said.

THE Rural City of Wangaratta and “Safer Together” are proud to present a free Seniors Concert with Arthur Hull at the Wangaratta Performing Arts and Convention Centre Memorial Hall on Wednesday, October 11 at 2pm.

A rising star, student of Albury’s Flying Fruit Fly Circus and recent performer on The Voice in 2022, Arthur will be performing popular ballads from past 30 years.

While the event is free, space is limited and bookings are essential by visiting wpacc.com.au or by calling 5722 8105.

School holiday activities at the library

FUN activities have been held at the Wangaratta Library for primary school aged kids during the school holidays.

The sessions will come to an end when Winni Wizard hosts an energetic, magic show today from 2.30pm to 3.30pm.

Bookings are essential by calling 5721 2366 or email library@wangaratta.vic.gov.au.

The Four Pillars at Wangaratta Art Gallery

A NEW exhibition of textile-based works by Melbourne-based artist Evangeline Cachinero will open at the Wangaratta Art Gallery this weekend.

Evangeline Cachinero is known for her vibrant paintings, digital installations and detailed textiles that bring together her interests in contemporary systems of belief, self-help and psychology.

The Four Pillars is a new body of work which explores the pillars of meaning in life, including belonging, purpose, storytelling and transcendence.

Hear the artist speak about her work with gallery director Rachel Arndt during the opening reception on Saturday at 2pm with free tickets available by visiting wangarattaartgallery.com.au.

yourstars

ARIES (March 21 to April 19) After much traveling this year, you’re due for some settled time with family and friends. Use this period to check out situations that will soon require a lot of serious decision-making.

TAURUS (April 20 to May 20) Keep that keen Bovine mind focused on your financial situation as it begins to undergo some changes. Consider your money moves carefully. Avoid impulsive investments.

GEMINI (May 21 to June 20) You’ll need to adjust some of your financial plans now that things are changing more quickly than you expected. All the facts you need haven’t yet emerged, so move cautiously.

“The printmaking award has been a distinctive award in the King Valley Art Show for many years.

“All our awards are now nonacquisitive and every entry is eligible for the Grand Award of $3000.”

Artists are encouraged to get their entries in by October 20, with more information and entry forms available at kingvalleyarts.com.au.

Due to popular demand (and thanks to Dysons) the committee advises the bus from Wangaratta to the gala opening will be free, but bookings are required when purchasing gala opening tickets.

The fun, social night kicks off at 7.30pm and includes de-

The Eagles Story comes to Wangaratta

EXPERIENCE the true west coast sound of the Eagles live on stage when five members of The Eagles Story play at the Wangaratta Performing Arts and Convention Centre on Saturday, October 28.

Complete with amazing harmonies, memorable melody lines and the incredible guitar duels that became trade mark for the band, Melbourne musicians Pete McCarthy, Gary Young, Paul Gales, Norm McNaughton and Steve Wells present hit after hit in a salute to the legendary band.

Tickets are available now at wpacc.com.au or from the box office.

licious nibbles, premium King Valley wines and craft beer, served as entries are revealed and the winners of this year’s show announced.

More than 300 artworks are expected and all will be available for purchase after the announcement of winners and during the three days of the exhibition.

The 2023 King Valley Art Show will be open to the public from November 4 to 6 at King River Brewing on Saturday and Sunday from 10am to 5pm and on Monday from 10am to 3pm. For tickets to the gala opening visit events.humanitix.com/ king-valley-art-show-gala-opening.

Battle of the Bands at The Vine Hotel

YOUNG local artists will take to the stage in this year’s Battle of the Bands being held at The Vine Hotel in North Wangaratta on Saturday, October 7 from 2pm.

The all ages event is hosted by the Rural City of Wangaratta’s youth services FreeZa crew, Spilt Milk and The Vine Hotel with doors open at 1.30pm and food and drinks available to purchase.

See a wide range of acts at the event which is funded by FreeZa, ensuring a safe and fun environment for everyone in a drug, alcohol, vape and smoke-free zone.

CANCER (June 21 to July 22) Personal and professional relationships dominate this period. Try to keep things uncomplicated to avoid misunderstandings that can cause problems down the line.

LEO (July 23 to August 22) That elusive goal you’d been hoping to claim is still out of reach. But something else has come along that could prove to be just as desirable, if only you would take the time to check it out.

VIRGO (August 23 to September 22) This is a good time to get away for some much needed rest and relaxation. You’ll return refreshed and ready to take on the workplace challenge that awaits you.

LIBRA (September 23 to October 22)

Confidence grows as you work your way through some knotty situations. Watch out for distractions from well-meaning supporters who could slow things down.

SCORPIO (October 23 to November 21)

Consider spending more time contemplating the possibilities of an offer before opting to accept or reject it. But once you make a decision, act on it.

SAGITTARIUS (November 22 to December 21) You’re in a very strong position this week to tie up loose ends in as many areas as possible. Someone close to you has advice you might want to heed.

CAPRICORN (December 22 to January 19) Congratulations! This is the week you’ve been waiting for. After a period of sudden stops and fitful starts, your plans can now move ahead with no significant disruptions.

AQUARIUS (January 20 to February 18)

You’re in an exceptionally strong position this week to make decisions on many unresolved matters, especially those involving close personal relationships.

PISCES (February 19 to March 20) This week starts off with some positive movement in several areas. A special person becomes a partner in at least one of the major plans you’ll be working on.

DAZZLING DISPLAY: Last year emcee Suz Christison and judge Richard Lewer (pictured) had the honour of announcing the winners in the King Valley Art Show, which is once again expected to attract over 300 entries.

KING VALLEY NEWS

King Valley CWA

THE next meeting of the King Valley CWA will be held on Tuesday, October, 3 at the Whitfield Recreation Reserve at 6.30 pm.

All local women are welcome to join in with RSVP to Mary on 0427 404 411.

Seniors Festival event in Cheshunt

A FREE community event will be held at the Cheshunt Hall on Thursday, October 5 from 12pm to 2.30pm as part of the Victorian Seniors Festival.

Celebrating the resilient community, there will be barbecue and ice cream with live music by performer Arthur Hull and representatives from emergency services will also be present.

To RSVP for catering purposes call Angie on 5722 0790 before October 3.

Moyhu Primary School trivia fundraiser

MOYHU Primary School will hold a trivia night fundraiser on Saturday, October 14 at the Moyhu Recreation Reserve.

Doors open at 6pm with the first question at 6.30pm and entry is $20 per person which includes a free sausage sizzle (byo drinks and nibbles).

There will be great prizes up for grabs with teams of 10 welcome, and those wanting to be part of a team are encouraged to call 0432 601 337.

Community opportunities workshop

RESIDENTS from upper King Valley communities are encouraged to attend a special workshop where they can have they say and help plan the King Valley’s future. Facilitated by Peter Kenyon from Bank of IDEAS and supported by Rural Aid, the event will be held on Wednesday, October 18 at the Whitfield Recreation Reserve with a free meal provided at 5.30pm before the workshop begins at 6.30pm.

Coordinated by the King Valley Residents Association, RSVP is requested for catering purposes to Jenny Ashby on 0419 878 025 or email kingvalleyra@gmail.com.

WANGARATTA Senior Citizens Club will host a social gathering at its clubrooms in Tara Court from 1.30pm today.

The club will hold indoor carpet bowls tomorrow (Thursday) from 12 noon, Golden Oldies mix-up day competition from 10am on Friday, and cards (euchre) from 1.30pm on Friday, indoor carpet bowls on Monday from 12 noon, and cards (500) and hoy on Tuesday from 1.30pm, all at its clubrooms in Tara Court, off Ford Street, or in the adjoining St Patrick’s supper room.

Next Wednesday, October 4, the club will run a bus trip to Beechworth, meeting at Swan Street at 9.30am. It will include a high morning tea, town tour, Chinese restaurant lunch and visit to Stanley.

THE Australian Plant Society (Wangaratta) will hold its next gathering on Thursday, September 28 from 7pm at the Masonic Hall in Appin Street.

The main focus will be on the Grand Spring Flowers Display, so bring along flowers from your garden.

The following Sunday, October 1, will see the group enjoy waratahs, and many other beautiful plants, on a member’s property at Eurobin. For details, phone 5725 7207. All welcome.

ELDORADO Senior Citizens Club hosts indoor carpet bowls at the hall every Thursday from 12.45pm.

The club will host its next commu-

FLASHBACK: The Milawa Squash Courts were built by the community 50 years ago and the club is still going strong today.

Covering Moyhu, Edi, Myrrhee, Whitfield, Cheshunt and Whitlands areas

MILESTONE: Then Rural City of Wangaratta mayor Geoff Dinning, with Sam Perna and Vic Hunt, attended the 25th anniversary of the Milawa Racquets Club in the 1990s.

PLAY ON: June Gottschling and Cope Swinburne are among the many players who make the most of the Milawa Racquets Club and the local facility today.

Milawa Racquets Club celebrates 50 years

A LOCAL sports club which has been attracting players from across the King Valley and beyond for decades, will celebrate its 50th anniversary this year.

It all began when resident Sam Perna, who had been playing squash in Wangaratta, had a dream to build the Milawa community their own squash courts.

Sam brought together a group of 20 locals, who each agreed to put in a small amount of money and provide labour, to enable a complex with two courts to be constructed.

One of the club’s original members, Pat Collins, said building began in 1971, the courts opened in March, 1972 and it was full steam ahead from there.

“When competition started not long after nearly half the population of Milawa were playing,” she said.

“It offered the community a place to play sport at a low cost to participate - and we keep it like that today.”

nity meal and annual general meeting on Thursday, October 12 from 12 noon.

WANGARATTA Family History Society will host two events at the Wangaratta Library during Seniors’ Month in October.

The first will be held on Thursday, October 5 from 10am, on using your computer and technology to research your ancestry, and the second, on Thursday, October 19 from 10am, will focus on troubleshooting with family tree software.

Although there is no cost, bookings are essential, and can be made by emailing wangfamhs@gmail.com or phoning 0474 443 626.

VETERAN and family morning tea is held at the Wangaratta RSL on the second Tuesday of each month, with the group’s next catch-up set for Tuesday, October 10 from 10am to 11.30am.

The gathering will celebrate Veteran Health Week.

All current and ex-service personnel and family are welcome, for further information phone 0447 217 768.

RSL Wangaratta women’s auxiliary will hold a hoy day on Thursday, October 12 at the club in Templeton Street.

The $15 entry includes a light lunch, lucky door prize and hoy prizes, with games from 11am to 2pm.

For more information, phone 5721 2501 or email info@wangarattarsl.org.au

BY ANITA McPHERSON amcpherson@ nemedia.com.au

Pat said a third court was eventually added and competition went from four to five nights a week, with an incorporated body established to run the facility.

Pat and fellow club member Trevor Dinning are still playing after 50 years, and Pat said the modest but distinctive-looking venue can still host 50 players every Monday and Thursday night.

The club is now preparing to host a 50 year celebration on Saturday, October 7 and event coordinator Joan Maher said a working bee has been held in preparation.

She said 80 people have already booked for the dinner and the club is expecting quite a few to come to the courts for a ‘come

SOCIAL CALENDAR

WANGARATTA Cake Decorators meet on the third Saturday of each month at Galen College in Phillipson Street from 10.30am, with the next meeting scheduled for October 21. This month’s session will focus on creating spooky Halloween-themed mini-cakes. Come and try your hand and have some fun, or get the kids to come along (10 years and over). BYO lunch and mug. Phone Lee on 0419 513 735 to book and get your kit/requirements list, and check out the club’s CDAV Wangaratta Branch Facebook page.

PARKINSON’S Disease Support Group meets every Friday at the Wangaratta RSL for coffee at 10am. Those who are able can also meet at the main entrance from 9.30am for a 30 minute river walk prior to coffee. For more information, contact Dave James on 0409 011 953 or Ros Taylor on 0429 624 844.

WANGARATTA Table Tennis Association is hosting a new social daytime group at the Wangaratta Showgrounds pavilion on Tuesdays from 10am to 12 noon.

People of all ages, from beginners to more experienced players, are encouraged to play singles and doubles in a relaxed, friendly environment, with coaching for beginners.

and try’ session and barbecue lunch from 12pm.

“We feel it is pretty special that this landmark of the Milawa township has not only survived but thrived for 50 years - the only time it was shutdown was because of COVID,” she said.

“We currently have a mixed racquetball competition on Monday nights, juniors on Wednesday nights and men’s squash on Thursday nights.

“All our comps are currently full so our membership is booming.”

Joan said the club had recently held a sponsorship drive with signs from many local businesses now adorning the walls and courts which she said not only looked great, but also provided much needed funds for improvements to the courts and building.

The spring competition will wind up with a grand night on Friday, November 17 with win-

For more information, phone Maxine on 0403 209 857 or Julie on 0422 321 456.

THE Wangaratta Artists are under new management, and welcome budding artists to come along, and established artists to exhibit in the studio at Batchelor’s Green.

The group meets at the studio on Mondays and Thursdays from 12 noon.

For more information, phone Clare on 0419 365 149.

COME and play mahjong at the Wangaratta RSL on Thursdays from 11am.

Beginners welcome. Contact Jan on 0429 166 016.

WANGARATTA Keenagers Table Tennis Club plays on Mondays and Thursdays at the table tennis centre at the Wangaratta Showgrounds. Play begins at 8am. New players welcome. Morning tea provided –please bring your own cup.

For more information, contact Trevor Wolfel on 0476 891 596.

WANGARATTA Sing Australia Group meets each Wednesday from 7.30pm to 9pm at Purbrick Hall, next to Holy Trinity Cathedral.

All welcome – for further information, call Keith Fleet on 0491 114 480 or Cheryl Hoysted on 0419 005 062.

WANGARATTA Concert Band rehearses on Mondays from 6.45pm to 9pm at the Avian Park Raceway

ners announced for that competition, as well as the aggregate winner for the year.

Joan said the club always hosts a family-friendly barbecue for all players and their families, with one court open for the children to play during the evening.

“It is a very friendly, social club and we are very inclusive,” she said.

Milawa Racquets Club will celebrate 50 years on Saturday, October 7 with a barbecue lunch and ‘come and try’ sessions from 12pm.

A celebration dinner and plaque unveiling will be held at the Milawa Hall that night, with doors open from 6pm and the unveiling to take place at 6.30pm.

Tickets for the dinner are $35 per person (byo drinks) or $10 for children five to 12, with lucky door prizes to be won, and RSVP can be made to 50years@milawasquash.org or phone 0417 944 994.

Band Room in Newman Street. New players welcome, contact Helen on 0401 021 448.

GLENROWAN Indoor Carpet Bowls is held at Glenrowan Recreation Reserve Hall each Wednesday – arrive 12.45pm for 1pm start.

The competition runs until 3.30pm–4pm, and is followed by afternoon tea. For details, phone Frank on 0409 662 462.

COME and try croquet at the Wangaratta Croquet Club, 46 Ryan Avenue, on any Monday, Wednesday or Saturday at 12.30pm.

Equipment and instruction provided in a friendly, welcoming atmosphere. For further information, phone club president Susan Fischer on 0417 217 009.

SATURDAY Quilters meet on the first Saturday of the month for a relaxed day of sit, sew and chat, from 10am to 3pm at the Wangaratta Small Bore Rifle Club, off the river end of College Street. Contact Colleen on 0427 221 138.

A NEW croquet club has started at the Wangaratta Lawn Tennis Club in Merriwa Park.

The group plays on Sunday afternoons, Tuesday afternoons and Thursday mornings, equipment supplied. For more information, contact Anne on 0490 173 169.

• TO include your group‘s activities in this listing, email the details to skerwin@nemedia.com.au

INPERSONBYPHONESELLING ACAR BUY ONLINE

37 Rowan Street, Wangaratta 3677 5723 0101

WHENTO BOOK BYEMAIL

classifieds@ nemedia.com.au

2 WEEKS REGIONAL WITH PICTURE from $42

General Classifieds: wangarattachronicle.com.au

Employment: northeastjobs.com.au

Real Estate: northeastproperty.com.au

WANGARATTA’S MARKET PLACE WITH OVER 40,000 READERS EACH WEEK IN PRINT AND ONLINE

PUBLIC NOTICES

The Wangaratta Chronicle office will be closed for business on September 29, 2023 for the Friday before the AFL Grand Final public holiday. Deadline for classified advertisements for Monday, October 2 edition, will be Thursday, September 28 at 4pm. Phone 5723 0101

Email: classifieds@nemedia.com.au

Wangaratta Squash and Racquetball Club Inc

FREE COME AND TRY NIGHT!

A fun social game for all the family 6pm

Thursday, September 28, 2023.

Wangaratta Sports and Aquatic Centre

For further information call Rod 0411 684 336.

St Therese Day October 3.

Always may the sorrow that one sees.

Now curl up on little leaves and see themselves drift far out to sea. Where the big fish feed on all that comes their way.

May they digest the little leaves so adorned and coronated with my sorrow. And the ocean in conflict came with the rain which gave more tears, my eyes to gain.

The big fish mouths wide open take unto themselves, my sorrow upon the curly leaves.

Taken so with my sorrow in motion, moved as close to shore where the big fish came.

So blessed the sands of time, so blessed the inner shore and in their mouths the big fish transformed my sorrow into gold and silver coins.

Royal and majestic, supreme the moon and the sun, The star of our days smiled humorously and shone in wholeness with the universe. Now happy ever after we live and love with written standing all is well, accordingly.

AVACADOS, new seasons, local and cherry pies now available at Sunday Community Market, Moore Swimming Centre.

NEW IN TOWN!

Sexy fun! Short time only!

Ph. 0450 835 816

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 Julian 0412 597 482.

PAINTER. Ovens and King Painting Service, trade qualified, over 25 years experience, Interior/exteriors, for free quote phone Cherime Demaj 0422 778 257 or 5721 5482.

TILING, wall/floor, bathrooms, renovations.

Phone Claude 0435 945 513.

2008 Holden VE

SS Sedan (1KFU2), 197,800km, manual, 19” rims, has upgraded cams, genie extractors, 3-inch exhaust, high

EMPLOYMENT

Graphic Designer

Full or part time opportunity

An opportunity has arisen for a graphic designer to join one of Victoria and NSW’s leading independent news and media groups, based at our Wangaratta office working on newspapers, magazines and digital properties across our group.

Following recent acquisitions North East Media is seeking additional graphic design support. You must be able to multitask, have strong organisational skills and be able to work under pressure and to tight deadlines. You must also be a team player who shows initiative and be able to work with minimal supervision.

Your experience will include sound skills developing artwork using Adobe InDesign. Experience designing artwork for multiple digital channels, including websites, social media, email marketing would be an advantage but not is not essential.

If you are looking for a new challenge in an energetic and stimulating environment, we would encourage you to apply.

Applications should be forwarded to:

Edward Higgins

CEO

North East Media Pty Ltd ehiggins@nemedia.com.au

2020 Toyota Hilux SRS 4x4 2.8l, twin cab white, 23,000km, as new, tilt lid,, bull bar, towbar, side steps, 12 month reg (1SO2UL), $52,000. Ph 0457 906 725.

2011 VW Tiguan

2.0 103TDi 5n auto (YIF824), silver, tow b ar, 242,000km used as work commute car, full service history, automatic, diesel, rwc, rego july 2024, $9900 neg, ph 0427 333 417.

2001 Honda CRV sport wagon (XYL126), nice paint work, all panels straight, interior v.g.c, incl seats and carpet. 4 good A.T tyres. Has little problem with overheating, good for motor swap or parts. Reg to Oct 19, 2023. $800, 235,000k’s on clock. Ph 0422 408 895. BLACK Holden Cruze CDX 2010 (XWT095), 173,400klm. $3000 neg. Contact Andrew 0428 410 341.

Classifieds Work!

OLD cars wanted, cars removed. Ph 0435 083 115.

EMPLOYMENT

HD Fat Bob, 2009, (HY607), 38,000km, $18,000 ono. Ph 0422 794 387.

CARAVANS & CAMPERS

2016 18’6” Kokoda Endure II Platinum Caravan, semi off road, full ensuite, washing machine, queen bed, 3 gas burners, 1 electric hot plates, microwave oven, tv, 175ltr fridge, freezer, 3 way pull out awning, many more extras, never been used, $47,500. Ph 0457 906 725.

OUR LADY’S PRIMARY WANGARATTA

Classroom Teacher

We can offer you:

Opportunity to work with an inclusive, passionate team of educators.

Small class sizes.

A commitment to learning and continuous improvement.

The successful applicant will have the opportunity to work with our school here in Wangaratta. We are currently on a journey with the Science of Reading. Knowledge around this pedagogy would be an advantage but not essential.

Our Lady’s Primary School Wangaratta is committed to valuing the safety and individuality of every child. We strive to create an environment where students receive the highest possible standard of care and protection at all times.

10 Foot Punt with outboard motor and trailer, never

EMPLOYMENT EMPLOYMENT

Finance and Administration Manager

Shape future healthcare professionals and community health in a unique, collaborative role with impact.

SENIOR LECTURER CHILD AND ADOLESCENT HEALTH COORDINATOR

Job no: 0056025

Location: Wangaratta

Role type: Part-time (0.2 FTE); Fixed-term until December 31, 2024

Faculty: Department of Rural Health, Melbourne Medical School

Department/School: Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences

Salary: Level C – $140,433 - $161,926 (pro rata for part-time) plus 17% super

Melbourne Medical School at the University of Melbourne, locations in Shepparton, Ballarat, Bendigo, and Wangaratta, as well as associations with over 40 rural towns in Victoria, we are dedicated to providing professional health education increase the rural health workforce, and we achieve this through strong partnerships with the local community and healthcare providers, ensuring our programs remain relevant and connected.

What We Offer You!

In addition, we offer the opportunity to be part of a vibrant generous leave provisions, salary packaging, health and well-being services and discounts on graduate courses. For

About the University of Melbourne

North East Media and its subsidiary companies has a vacancy at its head office in Wangaratta (Victoria) for a motivated and experienced accounting and business administration professional to provide administration management, financial management, and HR support across the group. Reporting directly to the CEO, the successful applicant will be responsible for the provision of day-to-day accounting and financial management responsibilities in the company. They will deliver on all financial and management accounting requirements within allocated deadlines, collaborate with the wider business to optimise finance operations and provide insightful financial and team information to the CEO for strategic decision making.

FUNERALS

GAMBLE

A funeral service to celebrate the life of Pamela Joy Gamble will be held at North East Funerals, 184 Greta Road, Wangaratta at 1pm on Tuesday, October 3, 2023, followed by interment at the Tarrawingee Cemetery.

Albury Wodonga Regional Cancer Centre would be greatly appreciated. https://www.awccancertrust.org.au/ donate-online/ Pam’s funeral service can be viewed via live stream at www.northeastfunerals.com.au/livestream

To celebrate Pam’s life, you are welcome to wear colourful, casual clothes.

About the Role

This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced professional to join our team at the Department of Rural Health campus in Wangaratta, Victoria. In this role, you will play a crucial part in shaping the education of future medical professionals, focusing on child and adolescent health in the MD program’s third year. Working closely with the MD Rural Pathway Director and a supportive team, you’ll have the chance to foster strong relationships with healthcare providers and actively contribute to the success of the Rural Clinical School. Your responsibilities will include: Clinical School students which includes the preparation and delivery of small group tutorials, demonstrations, clinical sessions and other modes of teaching.

and adolescent health for students at Northeast Health Wangaratta.

Department at Northeast Health Wangaratta. adolescent health assessments of medical students.

Who We Are Looking For

You are the ideal candidate if you have a strong commitment to advancing the University’s role in the Rural Clinical School, excel in teamwork and interpersonal communication, while understanding and supporting student needs

You will also have: relationships with all levels of medical practitioners, and other health professionals, in hospitals and the community.

curriculum delivery.

and the University at all levels. For further information regarding responsibilities and valid Working with Children Check to ensure the University provides a safe environment for everyone.

Please note: Visa sponsorship is not available for this

Your New Team – Department of Rural Health

The Department of Rural Health, part of the prestigious

We’re tightly connected with the community, both at home and abroad. We take pride in our people, who all contribute impact of education and research. Discover more via our website and stay connected with our stories and people on LinkedIn.

Be Yourself

backgrounds, experiences and contributions that each person brings to our community and welcomes and celebrates diversity. First Nations people, those identifying and genders, and people of diverse ethnicity, nationality workforce that reflects the diversity of the community in which we live. For more information please visit our Diversity and Inclusion page.

We are dedicated to ensuring barrier free and inclusive practices to recruit the most talented candidates. If you process, please contact the email address listed at the bottom of the page.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Applicants

We aspire to be the University of choice for Indigenous students and staff. Tangible support through a range of programs and initiatives will ensure that you personally succeed and flourish while at the University of Melbourne. For further information, including our 2023-2027 Indigenous strategy please visit -https://about.unimelb.edu. au/reconciliation/murmuk-djerring

Join Us!

If you feel this role is right for you, please apply with the following documents:

Essential Experience: management and the ability to multitask while working autonomously. role and the group.

data entry and financial record-keeping. to collaborate with internal teams and external stakeholders.

We offer a competitive and attractive salary package for the right person and the chance to build a good long-term stable career with a well-respected employer.

letter to: Edward Higgins CEO North East Media Pty Ltd ehiggins@nemedia.com.au

DEATH NOTICES

GAMBLE (nee Bennett), Pamela Joy.

26/9/1966 – 23/9/2023

Passed away peacefully at home surrounded by her loving family. Dearly loved wife of Ian. Loved mother of Emma, Olivia and Nathan. You will remain forever in our thoughts and hearts.

TURNER, Raymond Eric.

29/9/1948 – 22/9/2023

For information to help you with compiling short statements to answer the selection criteria and competencies, please go to http://about.unimelb.edu.au/careers/selection-criteria

Position Number and the Job Title as the subject. Please do not share your application to this email address.

If you have any particular questions regarding the job, please follow the details listed on the Position Description. https://jobs.unimelb.edu.au/en/ job/914124/senior-lecturer-child-andadolescent-health-coordinator

Applications close:

Passed away peacefully at Royal Melbourne Hospital. Dearly loved son of Douglas and Gladys (both dec). Loved brother and brother-in-law of Irene and Michael (dec), Ian (dec) and Margaret, and Kevin (dec). Uncle of Michelle, Lisa and Stephen; Sharon, Caroline and Johnny.

Personal Notices

TURNER

The funeral service in thanksgiving for the life of Mr Raymond Eric Turner will be held in the Mason Park Chapel, 95 Mason Street, Wangaratta on Monday, October 2, 2023, commencing at 10.30am. Burial will follow at the Wangaratta Cemetery.

FUNERAL DIRECTORS

The only family owned funeral home in Wangaratta

Proud Member of Australian Funeral Directors Association

John & Christine Haddrick

5722 2525 northeastfunerals.com.au

All Hours

A funeral experience... not just a funeral service

Mason Park Funerals

P. 03 5721 5060 W. masonpark.com.au

WANGARATTA Chronicle photographer Melissa Beattie made her way to the Ovens & Murray Football League grand final to capture some action from the thirds match between Wangaratta Rovers and Lavington. Photographs can be purchased at the Chronicle.

SAM NOLAN

NED TURNER

NED TURNER

FINN OSBORNE

JUDD SCHUBERT

COOPER GRACIE

RILEY ALLAN

RILEY ALLAN

HARRY NOLAN

ZAK SARTORE

WILL ASHTON

Four for the weekend for Dale

BY WILLSON MACK wmack@ nemedia.com.au

ANDREW Dale Racing’s nine hour round trip to Grenfell paid dividends on Saturday.

The local horse racing stable made the decision to target Grenfell’s Cup meeting and it proved to be a great move coming away with victory in three of the six races.

Crimosa kicked off the day for Dale with a tight win in race two (BM58), followed by Deploy and Destroy in race three (BM58) and Dangers in race five’s benchmark 58.

Dale said

“We had six runners for the day so to come away with three wins was great,” Dale said.

“Aside from the winners Biden finished second in a 1400 metre maiden, Wagunda was third behind Crimosa and Garros battled away in the cup which was run at breakneck pace – Garros was nearly 20 lengths off the leader at one point it was crazy.

“Richie Bensley rode all three of the winners, he’s a good quality jockey to be riding in a little meeting like that so we took advantage of that.”

Dale’s son Lachie and foreman Matt Hahne made

Andrew Dale Racing wins three races at Grenfell on Saturday, followed by a win at Leeton Monday

A d D l R i i h G f ll y,y y

port a couple of the races,” he said.

“So we threw Crimosa in last minute because he was ready to trial so for him it was more of a fitness run but came away with a win.

“You obviously take into account that it was a nonTAB meeting with small fields but for a few of the horses that went it was they either trial or we take them up to Grenfell and race for a little bit of money.”

Dale’s Mojo Music continued the winning weekend at Leeton on Monday in race six (BM58 1050m) by the smallest of margins.

The five-year-old gelding went toe-to-toe with Leon and Troy Corstens’ Jay Peak Kitten down the straight but it was Mojo Music who got the bob on the line to break a drought which hasn’t seen him win since July 2022.

“Everything went to script with Mojo Music,” Dale said.

“We thought Mojo would lead and dictate the race which he did with Corstens’ horse sitting on the outside.

the long trip up to Grenfell.

“They left at 7am and got back at 11pm so it was a crazy day for them,” Dale said.

“They said it was good to go and the track was a beautiful little country track but

it was a long day for them.

“When you take into account Mojo Music’s win on Monday (Leeton) along with the three at Grenfell it makes the trip worth it but I’m not sure that we’d do it again.

“The boys are still recovering from the track-lag I think.”

Although the non-TAB country meeting was a long way off even the quality of some TAB country race days,

Dale believes it was worth the effort for his gallopers.

“There weren’t many numbers in a couple of the benchmark 58 races so Racing NSW rang me up and asked if we’d be able to sup-

“Those two ended up going head-to-head and when I was watching it live I actually thought we got beaten but on the replay you could see that we just got the head down at the right time.

“He’s been a super horse for us, he was a $3000 buy and he’s now won over $160,000 in prizemoney.”

Plum Digital Hub win A grade premiership

THE winter competition of the Wangaratta Table Tennis Association came to a close on September 13 with the playing of the season’s grand finals.

Winter Competition grand

final results:

A Grade Premiers: Plum Digital Hub (Andrew Lindner, Austin Lindner, James Loughlan, Ken Parker [absent]) def Boralma Berkshire (Mark Comensoli, Kim Brown, John Maletta) with a final rubber score of 6-2. The final was the culmination of a great season.

The premiers knew they would need to be on their game to win over the Boralma side and were rapt with their teams success.

Wins in both doubles matches were an important factor.

Singles wins: Andrew 2, Austin 1, James 1, Mark 2.

B Grade Premiers: Plum Digital Hub (Aaron Plum, Klaus Kazenwadel) def Somerset Communications (Andrew Higgins, Phil Fitzgerald) with the final rubber score 3-1.

It often comes down to the doubles between these guys,

but this time it was decided early with the added intensity of finals fever.

Singles wins: Klaus 2, Aaron 1, Andrew 1.

C Grade Premiers: Blue Raven (Matt Curran, Campbell Hobbs, Angus Koop) def Plum Digital Hub (Paul Hughes, Stephen Algar, Reggie Kanaskar) six rubbers to three.

C Grade made the most of the final game of the season taking their sweet time to achieve a result.

Matt lead the charge for the premiers winning all three of his singles.

The majority of matches were closely contested, making it an interesting final.

Singles wins: Matt 3, Angus 2, Paul 1, Stephen 1, doubles wins were shared.

The successful competition, player awards and club championships were later celebrated during a social gathering at the showground table tennis venue.

Trophies and presentations were made to successful teams and individuals of A, B and C Grades and junior players.

The consistency winners

for the winter competition are:

A Grade: Andrew Lindner.

B Grade: Andrew Higgins.

C Grade: Julie Lindner.

This year the Quality Award for best club person was awarded to Julie Lindner for her contribution to the club.

Junior player awards were presented to Reggie Kanaskar (most improved) Seth Knox (encouragement), and junior coaching star Lockie (encouragement).

Reggie was also bestowed with a 12 month scholarship

to reward him for his successful season which included winning the C Grade Club Championship.

The enthusiasm of these young players for the game of table tennis and their eagerness to learn has been awesome.

Congratulations to all senior and junior players for their achievements in what has been a most enjoyable competition.

Play will recommence on October 18 with a muster night prior to the spring competition.

STAR: C Grade Club Champion and Junior Scholarship recipient Reggie Kanaskar.

C Grade Premiers: (L-R) Blue Raven’s Angus Coop, Campbell Hobbs and Matt Curran.

B Grade Premiers: Plum Digital Hub’s Aaron Plum (left) and Klaus Kazenwadel.

A GRADE PREMIERS: (L-R) Plum Digital Hub’s Andrew Lindner, James Loughlan, Austin Lindner, Ken Parker (absent).

WINNER: Mojo Music won at Leeton on Monday.

PHOTO: Trackpix Photography

Rally is a roaring success

By BRODIE EVERIST

OVER 300 dirtbike riders took to the track last Saturday in the 2023 Myrtleford Alpine Rally, traversing through bush trails in Gapsted, Murmungee and Stanley.

Alpine Rally president Mat Dwyer said the event went smoothly, they received positive feedback from rally riders and there were no injuries.

“There’s normally a few casualties, but this year we didn’t have any, so that’s a bonus,” he said.

He said weather for the event had been almost perfect, though they would have liked a little rain in the prior week to settle the dust.

Between 9-9:30am riders queued at the track start at Gapsted Recreation Reserve, and with the roar of engines, groups would set off when indicated by a rally official.

Dwyer said the event had 264 entrants, while 50 sweep riders also made sure groups stayed together and assisted with any problems during the ride.

The track took riders in a 75km loop through state forest and privately-owned land, largely heading northward until it reached North Dingle track east of Stanley, then the track looped back on a winding southward trajectory.

The loop also had three short

cut tracks cutting through the middle.

Afterwards many riders returned to the Ablett Pavilion for dinner, which was also a success, according to Dwyer.

“The night back at the footy club was probably the best one we’ve had yet,” he said.

On the night, rally organisers also held a charity auction of various goods, including a tool box, chainsaw and fridge.

Dwyer said figures for the charity auction have yet to be calculated and they will announce in coming weeks the beneficiary of the auction.

He thanked the event sponsors and the two landowners who let them make tracks through their land.

Yarrawonga resident Max Williams rode the full loop in the rally and said he particularly enjoyed the track.

“It was good fun, a nice track, and it was obvious a fair bit of preparation went into it,” he said.

Williams said he has been riding motorbikes since he was three or four years old, and now he is a motor mechanic.

“I just live and breathe motorbikes,” he said.

“I’ve been trying to find a lot more events to do because that’s the sort of riding I want to do.”

Tennis camp an ace experience

YESTERDAY’S tennis holiday camp, run by AllStars Tennis was a great chance for the up and coming stars of the sport to further refine their skills, and even learn some more.

In phenomenal spring weather on the courts at Merriwa Park, which had been re-opened to the public on Friday, the twohour intensive was well received.

NORTH East Bushrangers

Basketball (NEBB) is a collaboration between local North East basketball associations with the commitment of “Creating Realistic Pathways for all North East Athletes”

Eleven NEBB junior teams compete in the Victorian Junior Basketball League (VJBL) - the highest level junior competition in Victoria.

One NEBB Youth League Men’s (YLM) team competes in the semi-professional Big V competition.

Big V & VJBL consist of teams from both metropolitan and regional Victoria.

https://www.playhq.com/basketball-victoria/register/9ab99f

FOCUS: Annika Reynolds keeps her eye on the ball.

READY TO SERVE: Phoebe Bosley works on perfecting her serve.

BACKHAND: Stephanie Parsons nails a backhand winner. PHOTOS: Kurt Hickling

MOTORBIKE MAGIC: Riders taking off from the start of the track at Gapsted Recreation Reserve.

PHOTO: Brodie Everist

Strong pennant numbers at Wangaratta Bowls Club

By WILLSON MACK

THE Ovens and Murray bowls pennant season is just around the corner.

The weekend pennant competition will kick off on October 14, while mid-week pennant will follow on October 17.

Wangaratta Bowls Club’s Maurie Braden is looking forward to the season.

“Numbers are good, we’re steady if not better than last year,” Braden said.

“We’ve had a couple of players come back from Milawa but we’ve also lost a couple of our top players.

“Ethan Fruend has gone to play for Essendon in the premier league along with Mason Bayliss from Wodonga and Ian Brimblecombe’s gone to YMGCA.

“So I think YMGCA will be the team to beat in the A1 this year, they were runnerup last year and Wodonga have lost a few players.

“We’ll be looking to make finals again but it might take a few rounds to settle after losing two good players.”

Wangaratta will have teams in the A1, A3, B1 and B3 divisions in the weekend

pennant competition, while they’ve added a team into the mid-week competition with a B2 side added to the existing A1 and A2 teams.

“We’ll have the same teams in the weekend pennant and we’ve added a team to mid-week which gives another 12 players a go which is great,” Braden said.

“Our B3 team will start a week early on the 7th of October because Lavington have joined that competition.

“We’re probably bucking the trend of a lot of other bowls clubs because our numbers have improved.”

Braden said the greens at the Wangaratta Bowls Club are in fabulous condition.

“We’ve got four grass greens running really well at the moment which is a credit to our volunteers and greenskeepers,” he said.

“They’ve all come out of winter really well which is good because it’s going to be a dry summer.”

Along with their weekend and mid-week competitions, the local bowls club will also be running barefoot bowls on Thursday nights through November and February.

Kelly slapped with massive ban

WANGARATTA City striker Dan Kelly has been slapped with a massive ban.

Kelly has been hit with a 19-week suspension for his conduct during Wangaratta’s semi-final defeat to Albury United.

UP: City

City Colts are on the rise for 23/24 season

By NATHAN DE VRIES

AFTER a disappointing run results-wise last season, City Colts’ A grade squad are looking to implement some massive improvements with bat and ball.

The Colts took the wooden spoon in the 2022/23 season, with only a pair of wins to their name, but mammoth moves are in the works at the Barr Reserve.

A grade captain Mitch Giggins said some quality new and returning players are sure to boost the Colts.

“The A grade list is looking almost completely different, we’ve got a couple of returning players and a couple of new players,” he said.

“We’ve got Jessie Smith coming back to throw the whites on for us,

he’s missed it, and Hayden Murray is coming back to have a crack again, he played one game last year and realised how much he missed it, so he’s committed to us.

“We’ve got Dylan Adams coming back as well who is more than keen to take the new ball and send down some quick ones.

“We’ve got two new players, young Caleb Bell, he played juniors with us, he’s had a couple of years off and went out to Milawa.

“He bowls quite well, he’s picked up a few yards of pace and he’s a strong, fit fella, so hopefully he can bowl a fair few overs for us.

“We’ve got a new fella who rocked up out of the blue, he’s working here seasonally, a Pakistani fella by the name of Saheem Abbas, and he bowls fairly sharp,

so it’ll be interesting to see what he does.”

Giggins said the return of experienced players were sure to have a positive effect on the entire club.

“The injuries didn’t help (last year), but we were lacking experience,” he said.

“We had Justin Solimo and Kent Braden there, but they can’t do it all week in, week out.

“Hopefully this year with Dyl, Hayden and Jessie coming back, there’re your old heads and experience, and it gives the young fellas a chance to prove themselves as well.

“It’s a complete change of tune, so it’ll be exciting to see - the vibes are up and about.”

Numbers have been so strong the Colts are also entertaining the notion of entering another senior

squad, alongside their A grade, A reserve and B grade entries.

“We’ve had quite a few people pop up wanting to play again –we’ve got that awkward number between four sides and three sides, so it’s a tricky one,” Giggins said.

“It’s a great problem to have, having too many numbers.

“We’ve got a meeting tonight to decide whether we add in a fourth or not.

“The unfortunate part is that juniors who are playing in the morning might miss out every couple of weeks, but you don’t know with injuries or unavailability.”

The City Colts’ A grade side begin their campaign with a home game against Ovens Valley United on Saturday, October 7 on the turf at the Bill O’Callaghan Oval.

Tensions boiled over in the blockbuster clash after the 29-year-old was shown a red card for striking United’s Ryan Luty towards the end of the first half at South Wangaratta Reserve.

Kelly was given a five week suspension for striking and was banned for a further 14 weeks for bringing the game into disrepute.

The referee lodged an incident report after the game and statements were taken from both clubs before the Albury-Wodonga Football Association’s disciplinary committee met to rule on the incident.

The suspension essentially rules Kelly out of the entire 2024 season which is a huge loss given he was Wangaratta’s premier forward this season kicking 25 goals from 15 games.

Kelly has the chance to appeal the decision.

NEW SEASON: Wangaratta Bowls Club players are gearing up for 2023/24 season.

ON THE

Colts’ skipper Mitch Giggins (left) and his squad are keen to crack into the 2023/24 cricket season.

PHOTO: Melissa Beattie

Experienced coach Tristan Purss will head up the women Warriors’ CBL side

■ From back page

“The experience of coaching state-level related structures and programs has given me the knowledge and confidence to leap into this CBL role, and I think it’ll be great.”

Foes become friends for the sake of the game

DESPITE a paucity in under 16 player numbers, a chance meeting has led to a merger of new allies with Ovens Valley Cricket Club, Greta and Wangaratta Magpies to field a merged team.

The Tigers and the Blues will field a joint team this season under the Greta/Ovens Valley name, with at least one under 16s Magpie tagging along with the merged sides.

Ovens Valley junior coordinator, Scott McMasters said he was catching up with a Greta Cricket Club acquaintance during the junior football season, and discovered they were experiencing a similar drop in player numbers to his own club for under 16s.

“Ovens had six kids for under 16s and Greta had six, neither of us knew what we were going to do… so I said why don’t we just join up,” he said.

“A lot of them have played footy against each other so there will be a few who are familiar with each other.

BY BAILEY ZIMMERMANN bzimmermann@ nemedia.com.au

“It’s nice to work with like-minded people and make it happen.”

Games will be shared evenly between Greta and Ovens Valley home grounds, with the team to train together at least once a week at alternating venues with discussions of a neutral training venue at Milawa also a potential option.

“The next few weeks leading up to the season we’ll train together one day a week, and we’ve pretty much made it open to our 16s to train whenever they can, whether that’s with the under 14s or seniors,” McMasters said.

Greta junior coordinator Scott Wallace said it was fantastic to be able to negotiate with Ovens Valley and have a share in an under 16s side, which Greta have never been

able to field in Wallace’s four years at the club.

“It’s quite difficult to get a 16s side together and it was just sheer dumb luck that we had half a side and Ovens had half a side,” he said.

“We get along pretty well with the Ovens crew so we’re rapt with the partnership.

“We’ll have all three junior sides and we nearly have two under 12s sides this year so the junior numbers have exploded.”

Wangaratta Magpies president Darren Grant said while the team had only four members for an under 16s team this year, they are hopeful strong representation in the under 12s and under 14s can carry through in years to come.

“When they hit 15 or 16 it’s hard to retain them, they make a decision to choose footy or cricket, some of them get jobs and work, it’s been a real struggle for us,” he said.

“You’ve just got to try and keep them interested and it’s not always that easy.

“We’ve had two teams come through in the under 12s in the last couple of years and the next year or two hopefully we’ll have an under 16s.”

In total there will be eight under 16s teams in the Wangaratta and District Cricket Association junior competition for the 2023/24 season, compared to 12 under 14s teams and 15 under 12s teams.

McMasters said at the end of last season the league and its club’s junior coordinators had discussions about the declining under 16s participation numbers, which was a concern shared by all clubs.

“Obviously there is a bit of an issue if three clubs can’t field an under 16s,” he said.

“Kids get old enough and they get jobs, have different interests.

“We’ve spoken about it at Ovens, really pursuing the Woolworths Blast and really encouraging young kids to have a go at cricket.”

The junior season will begin on October 14.

With this upcoming CBL season only consisting of eight rounds, with plenty of Saturday-Sunday matches, Purss said he was focussed on getting his squad as prepared as possible to take on the competition and improve on last year’s results.

“The times when we’ve had training sessions, everyone seems really positive and thirsty,” he said.

“The mood’s been great, and I think they’re all looking forward to getting into it, I think they’re really embracing the idea of it being a compacted season being wrapped up before Christmas time.

“I think that’s enticed some people to return as well, as it won’t interfere greatly with preseasons for competing sports - it allows these athletes to really invest in more sports.

“We’re doing our best to try and get ourselves as ready as possible in a short window of opportunity.

“Once the season gets going, it’ll all fall into place – I can’t wait to get started and see what we can accomplish.”

The Women Warriors kick off their CBL season against Wodonga Wolves away on Saturday, October 7, before hosting Shepparton Gators on the Sunday.

ON THE MEND: Charlie Seager rolls the arm over for Wangaratta Magpies under 12s last season, as the club hopes a strong representation in the lower junior grades can rebuild their under 16s.

PHOTO: Melissa Beattie

FUTURE STARS

Purss to lead

Experienced coach Tristan Purss will head up the women Warriors’ CBL side for pp/2023/24

TRISTAN Purss will coach the Wangaratta Warriors women’s CBL side for the upcoming season, and he’s eager to see what his new charges can do.

A keen footballer and basketballer, Purss has experience taking his teams to the highest of highs, most notably coaching Myrtleford’s thirds footballers to a droughtbreaking flag in 2019.

Purss has lined up for the Saints on the basketball

BY NATHAN DE VRIES ndevries@ nemedia.com.au

court as well, but made the transition over to the Warriors through coaching out of the Wangaratta hub for various development programs.

“My daughter plays in Wodonga, and she played for North East Bushrangers, I coached

her in the Victorian Junior Basketball League down in Melbourne,” Purss said.

“That’s sort of how the connection started, with my daughter going into the Bushrangers and getting the connection with the Wangaratta crew, meeting Adam (Maher, Wangaratta Basketball Inc president) and a lot of the support staff and players that are involved there.

“It opened up a door, an opportunity, so when Adam

reached out and asked about the possibility of coaching, I thought it was a good, exciting, different opportunity to explore, which was away from my existing experiences.”

Even though it’s his first season coaching at a CBL level, Purss said his experience coaching various sports at different levels, and having played at the CBL level himself, meant he was well armed to tackle the challenges ahead.

“I feel very comfortable with transitioning into it, and as a previous player at CBL level, that experience is invaluable and makes me feel right at home – I know what the level’s like and the competition,” he said.

“I was the head coach of the Wangaratta hub for the under 14 boys and girls future development program, that ran for 20 weeks out of the Wangaratta Indoor Sports and Aquatic Centre.

■ Continued page 19

ON the court at the All-Stars Tennis holiday camp yesterday were (from left) Liv Corso, Wil Clark, Amelia Unwin, Stephanie Parsons, Georgie Unwin, Polly Neville, Annika Reynolds, Matilda Clark and head coach Doug Smith. More photos page 18.

PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

LOCKED IN: Tristan Purss will coach the Wangaratta Warriors women’s CBL side this season.