CELEBRATION: Dignitaries including (from front le ) V/Line acting executive project director Anita
Inland Rail CEO Nick MIller, McConnell Dowell operations manager Harriet Christopherson, and
which included the ceremonial ribbon cutting (inset).
Minister o icially opens new Wangaratta Railway Station transformation as part of Inland Rail: Construction created $18m in employment, benefiting 48 Wangaratta businesses and 488 people
THE $70 million Inland Rail project at Wangaratta was o cially opened with dignitaries marking the historic occasion on-site yesterday.
Planning and works have been ve years in the making, and 48 Wangaratta businesses have bene ted from $18m in employment during the construction phase, including 488 local people liv-
STEVE KELLY skelly@ nemedia.com.au
ing in the Wangaratta district. It was part of tranche one Inland Rail Beveridge to Albury, which cost $300 million, with $161 million of this spent on employmentincluding $10.5m with First Nations’ businesses - and
overall about 1500 workers were locals.
Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Catherine King opened the Wangaratta Inland Rail project with the cutting of a ribbon, while a local choir sang an entertaining song titled ‘Wangaratta Choo Choo’, written by Jim McKean, to mark the milestone event.
“As part of getting double
stacked freight trains onto Inland Rail we’ve also been able to upgrade this rail precinct in Wangaratta,” Ms King said.
“There have been so many local people from the surrounding district employed on this project.
“The fact that we’ve seen local electricians, plumbers, construction workers building this precinct here is a great testament to the skills
and Inland Rail contributing to the skills growth in this community.”
The Wangaratta Railway Station project works included the lling of the former dive track and platform on the Norton Street side, removal of two pedestrian bridges, building of a new west track and platform for northbound tra c, installation of accessibility infrastructure such as
li s, pedestrian ramps and amenities, and new carparking on the east and west sides of the station.
As part of the project the tracks were lowered 2.8 metres under the Green Street bridge to allow for doublestacked freight trains, and the old bridge was replaced, complete with road works and barriers.
■ Continued page 2
Gelfond, Indi MP Helen Haines, Minister for Infrastructure and Transport Catherine King,
Rural City of Wangaratta Mayor Irene Grant were joined by others at the project opening,
PHOTOS: Steve Kelly
Transport Minister o icially opens new Wangaratta Railway Station employment, benefiting 48 Wangaratta businesses and 488 people
■ From page 1
Ms King highlighted the high standard of disability access now at the Wangaratta Railway Station, as the previous set-up was built more than 100 years ago.
“It’s about making sure people can access the platforms and trains, and it’s the basic human right of being able to go to the toilet,” she said.
Ms King said the whole Inland Rail project will be more than 1600km of track from Melbourne to Brisbane, taking freight o the nation’s roads with 70 per cent of the freight task to come onto Inland Rail once complete.
by phone on (02) 9261 1930.
“To make sure Inland Rail is viable compared to road they need to be able to deliver the volume that road can at the time that road can,” she said.
Inland Rail CEO Nick Miller said the precinct has been “a long, tough journey for the teams” and the nished result was outstanding, with Wangaratta an important part of the overall milestone.
“We’ve had a deliberate strategy to involve local businesses for this project and our construction partner
McConnell Dowell put in an enormous e ort with over 1600 people
working on this project since its commencement,” Mr Miller said.
“We relocated the western track, and the dive was removed and a lot of that work has to happen during possessions.
“The possessions are around 60-100 hours and a very intensive period of activity goes on in construction during those possessions.
“Brown elds projects do take longer that green elds projects.”
Mr Miller said Inland Rail is a critically important project for the nation’s economy and the regions.
“If we think about the trains that
run on Inland Rail, they are 1.8km long, double-stacked and each one of those trains will take 110 bdoubles o the road,” he said.
“It’s good for safety, sustainability and the economy in terms of having an e cient connection between Brisbane and Melbourne and the inland ports.”
But while Inland Rail will take the place of hundreds of b-double trucks, Mr Miller indicated truck freight would still be required.
“Ultimately, if you look at the freight task between now and 2040 to 2050, the freight task is
expected to grow over 26 per cent, so the reality is the secret here is not just about road and not just about rail, it’s a combination as our economy grows and the volume of our goods increases,” Mr Miller said.
Indi Independent MP Helen Haines said the completion and opening of the project made it a good day for Wangaratta.
“From this day forward we see an improvement to our town –better parking, better disability access, better and safer access to the trains and a new precinct that connects the health services to the main part of our city,” she said.
“We’ve seen a net migration out of the cities to Wangaratta a er Covid and we need to make sure that our infrastructure matches the population growth.
“What I’d like to see now is improved engagement, improved services when it comes to the numbers of trains available on our timetable and additional carriages.
“We’ve seen the numbers of people using the train increase with the changes in fares and I think we’re only going to see more and more growth as people come and realise what a fantastic facility this is.”
Repair plans in Reid St being finalised
AWAITING REPAIR: The Rural City of
says it is finalising plans for remediation of this area of footpath in Reid
March.
By SIMONE KERWIN
PLANS for remediation of an area of damaged footpath in a high-tra c stretch of Reid Street are being nalised by the Rural City of Wangaratta.
Temporary repairs were made to the footpath along the northern side of Reid Street, between Ovens Street and Victoria Parade, following a water main break at the corner of Reid Street and Victoria Parade on 24 March.
Council said last month that North East Water had made the temporary repairs to the area a er working on the burst water main, and that the Rural City of Wangaratta was working with North East Water on a more permanent solution.
A further month on, council said it was nalising its plans for remediation of the area, and would progress these works as soon as possible.
Wangaratta
Street, which was damaged in
PHOTO: Simone Kerwin
INSPECTDION: Indi MP Helen Haines (le ) walks beside Minister for Infrastructure and Transport Catherine King on a tour of the new Wangaratta Railway Station. PHOTO: Steve Kelly
Purple bin roll-out on the table
KERBSIDE glass container collection will start across 12,000 households in the Rural City of Wangaratta from September and food organics and garden organics (FOGO) pick-up will also begin in smaller towns in August.
BY STEVE KELLY skelly@ nemedia.com.au
This was the recommended option that rural city councillors were presented with at the May council meeting on Tuesday a ernoon. Under the recommenda-
join the kerbside service. Based on a kerbside recycling audit, council predicts the city will generate 1642kg of glass each week [25 per cent container deposit scheme eligible], or 1025
an, Tarrawingee, Eldorado, Whorouly, Everton, Peechelba, Springhurst, Moyhu, Whit eld and Cheshunt ‘township’ and ‘low density residential’ zones.
A standard 240-litre FOGO
tre), which reduces the general waste charge by $174.
This would result in a net increase of $34 per year to the residents’ existing waste charge.
The delivery of the kerbside glass collection to towns currently participating in the FOGO service area including Wangaratta, Glenrowan, Oxley
Motorists seek timely passage after Sisely Ave closure
By BAILEY ZIMMERMANN
THE closure of Sisely Avenue’s Tone Road intersection for watermain replacement works has seen peak hour tra c mount at busy detour points across the city, but is having limited impact on tra c ow according to council reports.
North East Water acting general manager planning and infrastructure, Dean Jones, said the water body, its contractor and senior sta at Rural City of Wangaratta council were meeting weekly to review tra c management.
“The rural city reports little impact on tra c ow,” he said.
“Swan Street, Roy Street West and Green Street are carrying higher tra c ows because of diversions, leading to peak time short-term tra c queuing when the lights change at the Green Street-Greta Road/ Tone Road intersection.
“These queues do clear quickly in most instances.
“North East Water is also liaising to ensure the uninterrupted operation of emergency services, all of which are based in the area where
these works are underway.”
Last Friday, motorists were made to quickly adjust to life without access of the busy intersection, lining up on Green Street bridge as far back as the Cusack Street roundabout around 8:30am. Tra c was regularly backed up across the length of the bridge.
North East Water’s major
$2 million works to upgrade the region’s water services is expected to be ongoing until September.
Contractors undertaking the works have advised North East Water of expected road and lane closures throughout the works subject to weather conditions.
There’s expected to be some relief for motorists
upon the completion of boring works estimated for mid-July, with the eastbound lanes of Sisely Avenue to Tone Road to open while pipe installation takes place.
The Sisely Avenue lefthand westbound lane from the railway line to Bruck Court will remain closed during these works.
Both lanes and the inter-
section will be blocked o again from August for commissioning works until the project’s expected completion in mid-September.
North East Water acting general manager planning and infrastructure, Tim Golland, thanked the community for their patience.
“This vital project will bring lasting bene ts to the community,” he said.
Other options were glass to Wangaratta urban only; pause roll-out; or do not expand services. Victorian councils have a statutory duty to provide a standardised four-stream household waste and recycling service by July 2027. Both glass and FOGO kerbside collection will be serviced by council collection vehicles.
Man alleged to have stolen crashed car, with guns found inside
AN Albury man who allegedly crashed a stolen car in Myrtleford and was the suspect of a near threehour police search is facing drug trafficking and firearm related charges.
The 33-year-old appeared at Wangaratta Magistrates’ Court from custody on Monday, not seeking release.
He was apprehended by police with the help of a police helicopter on Friday, hiding near Chambers Street around 2:30pm, after he allegedly crashed a stolen car on Prince Street around 11:40am.
A search of the vehicle allegedly found a shortened .22 gun with a silencer and a rifle.
The court heard the Albury man was facing commercial drug trafficking, firearm related and other charges. He will re-appear at Wangaratta Magistrates’ Court today.
Boorhaman burglar accused to be sent to court in Warrnambool
A GLEN Waverly man who allegedly attempted to burgle a Boorhaman home and drove through paddock fences to avoid arrest in a stolen six-wheeled utility will be sent to the Warrnambool Magistrates’ Court.
The 33-year-old refused to appear from a Melbourne
Assessment Prison court link at Benalla Magistrates’ Court yesterday, with the court surprised to see a guard taking his place as the WebEx link appeared.
The prison guard told the court the man refused to come out of his jail cell and was in the process of being
taken to a specialist, high security hospital.
Lawyer Geo Clancy said he was contacted by Legal Aid to represent the accused, but the defendant refused to speak with him and he was “clearly unwell”.
The defendant has been in custody since 20 April when
home occupants of a Boorhaman farm allegedly saw him at their property.
Police arrived and pursued the accused as he allegedly drove through several farm fences to avoid arrest.
He was later apprehended in the Boorhaman area and is facing charges of the of
motor vehicle, numerous charges of criminal damage and reckless conduct endangering life, and two counts of dangerous driving avoiding police.
At the time of his arrest the man was wanted for “signi cant” alleged o ending in the Warrnambool area
over the months of March and April.
The allegedly stolen utility was of a unique make, built with six axles.
Magistrate Peter Dunn adjourned the matter for mention at the Warrnambool Magistrates’ Court on 13 June.
SANGIOVESE E SALSICCE
Dance, sip & feast at Pizzini with delicious food by Pinchos, wine tastings and wine cocktails. Plus tunes by DJ Elijah on Saturday and on Sunday Paris & Co. and Bric a Brac.
Pizzini’s event is part of the Wines of the King Valley’s Weekend Fit for A King Festival. Entry is $40pp includes event glass plus access to all festival venues. For more details and to book your
closure of the Sisely Avenue and Tone Road intersection.
PHOTO: Bailey Zimmermann
Love all for 70 years
Des and Doreen Stone celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary in April
DES and Doreen Stone celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary on April 9.
The Wangaratta couple rst met playing tennis, a pastime and passion they shared for years to come.
They were married in 1955 at the Cathedral Church in Wangaratta and lived at Londrigan before moving to Wangaratta about 1981.
Des was a well-known jockey and bookmaker while Doreen worked at Tippings Deli and Paula Gaye Frocks.
The couple had three children; Christine, Gary and Sharon.
Apart from tennis, the couple also enjoyed greyhound racing and horse racing together for many years and separately Doreen also played netball while Des was a renowned footballer, cricketer, baseballer, squash player and golfer.
In 1999, the late Bill O’Callaghan described Des in his O’Cal’s Corner column in the Wangaratta Chronicle as one of the best sporting all-rounders in the district, excelling at anything he tried with highlights including two O&K football premierships with Tarrawingee,
FLASHBACK:
a love for sport for more than seven decades.
300 games for the Bulldogs, four time successive Wangaratta District Baseball Association premiership player, captained the baseball representative side, twice Wangaratta Lawn Tennis Club doubles champion, and was a member of the lawn team that won the B Grade Country Week tennis title played at Kooyong.
Doreen won two WLTC ladies championships and was runner-up to Margaret Smith (now Court) in the
ANA singles nal in Wangaratta.
The couple received congratulatory messages from The King, The Prime Minister, The Premier and many other dignitaries.
Des turned 90 in January and has been in care for almost six years while Doreen will be 94 in November and still resides in the family unit.
The couple celebrated the occasion with family including warm best wishes from Christine, Gary and Sharon.
Nicole’s cutting off her locks for cancer support
By GRACE FREDSBERG
LIKE many, Wangaratta resident Nicole Lummas has seen the devastating impact cancer has on people’s lives.
So on Thursday, 29 May, the greyhound trainer is shaving her head at Shepparton Greyhound Racing Club’s Biggest Morning Tea to raise awareness about the illness.
But she’s not just participating in the cause in tribute to the people in her life that she’s lost to cancer.
“I’m doing it for everyone; the people who have lost families, the people who are going through their own battle,” she said.
“[Cancer] changes every-
THE BIG CHOP: Nicole will sport a new do’ on Thursday when Michelle Berry shaves her hair in support of cancer care.
bus sta are eager to assist residents with their questions about government services such as Centrelink.
Blue
Gum
bus
rolling into region’s towns
NORTH East residents will be able to access government services visiting multiple smaller towns from 27 May to 4 June.
Services Australia’s mobile service centre, Blue Gum, will be offering the community easy access to Medicare and Centrelink services and can provide information about the National Disability Insurance Scheme and Department of Veterans’ Affairs services.
Mobile service centres are 20 tonne trucks operated by staff from Services Australia, providing regional and rural Australians with friendly faceto-face services and tailored support.
thing, it changes your whole perception.
“I’m just making people aware to get checked - there’s no harm in asking your doctor.”
Nicole said by shaving her
PHOTO: Je Zeuschner
head, she hopes people will realise cancer doesn’t have to be a silent battle.
“There’s still people out there that are willing to listen,” she said.
Her two closest friends, Meredith Prentice and Michele Berry, were also diagnosed with the illness a year ago and have been battling it since, prompting Nicole to ask herself what she could do to help out.
“I don’t have the medicine, nor do I have the professionalism to be able to do anything,” she said.
“But the least I can do is put [the message] out there.”
Nicole also lost her partner and her mother-in-law to cancer 10 years ago.
“I can grow my hair back but my partner and his mum can’t,” she said.
“My hair is going to grow back - I’m in good health.”
At the morning tea, Michelle will do the honours of
shaving Nicole’s hair on the day.
There will be a silent auction for straws from two Melbourne Cup winning greyhounds; Hard Style Rico (valued at $2200) and Yachi Bale (valued at $2000).
She’ll also be ra ing a rug and a collar, with all funds going directly to the cause, Raise It 2 Shave It.
Thus far, Nicole has raised over $1000 toward life-saving cancer treatments, programs and support services through Cancer Council.
If you’d like to make a donation to Nicole, visit https:// fundraising.cancervic.org. au/fundraisers/nicolelummas/raise-it-2-shave-it or scan the QR code attached with this article.
Staff on board this trip can help with: Centrelink claims; payment and services information; updating information; confirming documents and supporting information; myGov services; social work support and referrals; Medicare registrations; and accessing online services through a self-service terminal.
The Blue Gum bus will visit the following locations:
Bright on Wednesday, 28 May in the Senior Citizens Centre car park, Cobden Street (9am to 4pm);
Myrtleford on Thursday, 29 May adjacent to Jubilee Park, Myrtle Street (9am to 4pm); Beechworth on Friday, 30 May in front of the memorial hall, Ford Street (9am to 4pm); Moyhu on Monday, 2 June opposite the Moyhu Hotel, Byrne Street (9am to 4pm); Mansfield on Tuesday, 3 June adjacent to the courthouse, Highett Street (9:30am to 4pm); and Bonnie Doon on Wednesday, 4 June near the post office, Bon Crescent (9am to 4pm).
Major milestone a call for more service
AFTER putting the hard yards in with the $70m Inland Rail project over recent years and seeing the wonderful results of our new railway precinct come to life, it’s now time take our train game to another level.
The official opening of the new-look railway precinct is a major milestone in modernising our rural city, enabling better and safer access to public transport.
From the Green Street bridge closure, removal of the Docker Street footbridge and the filling of the former dive track, the project has received more than its fair share of angst from the community, but it’s hard to argue the results look magnificent.
It’s also pleasing to hear so many locals and local businesses benefited from employment in the duration of the project.
It’s now time for improved services to match our new facilities, particularly the number of passenger trains and carriages coming through.
Ever since the lowering of fares on V/ Line trains, reports of overcrowding have become synonymous with the service while the region have missed out on more trains.
More service is only going to mean more people coming through our beautiful new precinct, which hopefully can entice them to see more of our rural city and region.
Nearby businesses are also ready to cash in an increase of visitation, with the recent redevelopment of the Railyard and plans of a new gym to come to the former Lidgerwood’s Furniture building.
The Australian Quiz
1 The flag of Kyrgyzstan consists of which two colours?
(a) Red and white (b) Red and yellow (c) Blue and yellow (d) Blue and white
2 In October 2014, who became President of Indonesia?
(a) Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono (b) Joko Widodo (c) Jusuf Kalla (d) Abdurrahman Wahid
3 Which hit song by Adele starts with the words, “I heard that you’re settled down”?
Amplification 7
(a) Someone Like You (b) Hello (c) Rolling in the Deep (d) Easy on Me
4
Jonas Vingegaard rode for which team in the 2022 Tour de France men’s multiple-stage bicycle race?
(a) Lotto–Soudal (b) Team Jumbo–Visma (c) AG2R Citroën Team (d) Trek–Segafredo
5 In the 1960s, who was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature, but refused to accept it?
(a) Samuel Beckett (b) John Steinbeck (c) Jean-Paul Sartre
Persistence pays off for $11.7m upgrades
I WAS relieved to see the previously delayed $11.7 million for Wangaratta High School was included in the 2025/26 Victorian Budget.
The funding follows years of advocacy from the local school community and myself a er the original commitment, promised during the 2022 election, was cruelly withdrawn and delayed.
This is a fantastic outcome for Wangaratta. Students, teachers, and families have waited too long for the government to keep their word.
The $11.7 million investment will allow Wangaratta High School to move forward with long-overdue upgrades that will signicantly improve learning environments and future opportunities for students.
With plans already in place, the school is ready to move quickly to deliver these improvements.
This outcome shows the power of persistence.
(d) Nelly Sachs
6
The word, laser, originated as an acronym. What did the A stand for?
(a) Application (b) Amplification (c) Alternative (d) Amplitude
7
Luanda is the capital city of which African country?
(a) Ethiopia (b) Namibia (c) Zimbabwe (d) Angola
8
Who stars as The Grabber in the 2020s movie, The
Black Phone?
(a) Ethan Hawke (b) Ben Affleck (c) Christian Bale (d) Mark Wahlberg
9 Which country won the first FIFA World Cup?
(a) Argentina (b) Brazil (c) Uruguay (d) England
10 Bert Flugelman is best remembered in relation to what type of sculptures?
(a) Plastic (b) Stainless steel (c) Gaseous (d) Tree bark
COSY COMFORTS: Wangaratta Royal Children’s Hospital Ladies Auxiliary members Colleen O’Brien, Pat Gri in and Georgina Rea display some of the items which will be on sale at their stall in the winter market running at St Patrick’s Hall in Ford Street on Saturday, 31 May. The group’s usual array of knitted goods, preserves, cakes and freshly-made lamingtons will be available at its stall. The indoor market will run from 9am to 1pm, with 24 stallholders o ering a wide range of goods, and the chance to enjoy a free cuppa in the Sip & Chat corner.
their wonderful support.
The local community, school leadership, and families have worked hard to keep this issue in the spotlight.
The announcement is a clear sign of what can be achieved when regional voices stand together.
I’m proud to have stood alongside the Wangaratta High School community throughout this campaign.
It should never have taken this long to deliver what was promised, however, I’m incredibly pleased to see Wangaratta High Schoolnally get the funding it deserves.
Tim McCurdy, Nationals MP for Ovens Valley
Big generosity shown at Biggest Morning Tea
ON behalf of the Wangaratta Volunteer Group of the Cancer Council Victoria, I would like to thank the community very much for their support for our Biggest Morning Tea this year.
We raised $1123 from the morning tea, rafe and donations and are delighted with this result.
Thank you to all the volunteers who helped and cooked for the occasion, to the Uniting Church in Rowan Street and to the Wangaratta Chronicle and Edge FM for
Thank you to Wendy Norman for donating the dressed dolls for our display.
These are now for sale.
We are also delighted with the result from the Open Garden on Easter Saturday at the home of Julie and Rob Lamond in Tarrawingee.
We raised $1324 on the day, mostly from sale of sandwiches, cakes and slices.
In addition, Julie and Rob generously donated their share of $1000 from the Open Garden scheme for which we are extremely grateful.
This gave us a total of $2324.
Our next fundraiser is the men’s breakfast on Friday, 13 June at the Quality Hotel, Wangaratta Gateway, and we are looking forward to another successful event.
Each year the Cancer Council sets out to raise funds for much needed cancer research, education and support services and we are extremely grateful for the community’s support.
Barbara Thomas, Wangaratta Volunteer Group
Libs vow no stamp duty for first homebuyers
THE Victorian Liberals and Nationals will scrap stamp duty for rst home buyers on all properties up to $1 million – established or
o -the-plan – in a bold and visionary policy to restore the dream of home ownership for a new generation.
Stamp duty is one of the most punitive taxes in the country, with Victorians paying an average of $40,000 on a $750,000 home in upfront tax.
Under our plan, that tax bill for rst homebuyers will be zero.
The Parliamentary Budget O ce estimates the policy will deliver more than 17,000 exemptions in its rst full year, helping young Victorians into a home while injecting condence back into the property sector.
Brad Battin, Leader of the Opposition
Answers 1 (b) Red and yellow 2 (b) Joko Widodo 3 (a) Someone Like You 4 (b) Team
WENDY and Peter Lester, who were jointly named the Rural City of Wangaratta’s Citizen of the Year on Australia Day, have had their handprints cast in the Marmungun Rock.
To mark the occasion, a Marmungun Rock ceremony hosted by the Dirrawarra Indigenous Network and proudly supported by the Rural City of Wangaratta, will be held this Sunday at 11am, coinciding with Reconciliation Week, 27 May-3 June.
Each year since 2017, the local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community, through the Dirrawarra Indigenous Network, recognise the Wangaratta Citizen of the Year by including their carved handprint on the Marmungun Rock in Apex Park.
These carved handprints are an honour and enduring tribute to outstanding individuals in our community
who demonstrate the qualities of an Indigenous Elder – community service, integrity, and wisdom.
Wendy and Peter were nominated for the citizen of the year award for their extensive work enhancing the welfare and wellbeing of the community.
They have made major contributions to events and organisations across multiple sectors in Wangaratta.
Their longstanding support for the jazz festival, the Rovers Football and Netball Club, and The Orange Door has created lasting platforms that upli and bene t the community.
Generations of family now and into the future will have a place to come to celebrate Wendy and Peter Lester and their ongoing contribution to the community.
Marmungun means ‘of this group’ or ‘of this area’ – the
closest traditional Bangerang word for community.
The Marmungun Rock concept was conceived by respected Elder Wally Cooper whose pride in his Aboriginal heritage and message of hope for the future inspired many.
His ability to connect with Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal people has helped to build respect, understanding and reconciliation.
This legacy le by Uncle Wally, is now proudly continued by his children Sonny, Anita, Jesse, and Kevin.
The ceremony will begin with an Acknowledgement of Country, traditional performances, unveiling of the handprints and will conclude with a sausage sizzle.
The event is open to everyone in the community - RSVP by emailing dirrawarranetwork@outlook.com.
Trivia night to help fundraise for suicide prevention
EXCITEMENT is growing as the Wangaratta Area Suicide Prevention Trivia Night Fundraiser draws closer.
To be held at the Da Vinci Social Club this Saturday, 31 May the evening hopes to raise much needed funds to support suicide prevention in the North East.
The evening includes a three course Italian inspired meal and complimentary bus transport to/from central Wangaratta, with Dysons.
The trivia component of the evening is being hosted by entertainment professionals, Quizzame.
There are no pens or paper - just wireless buzzers and a game show style trivia experience.
A feature of the evening will be the auction, conducted by well-known lo-
cal identity Peter Joyce, of O’Brien Real Estate Joyce, who will auction a range of items including a $2500, six night accommodation package, inclusive of meals and beverages in Thailand which was donated by Sarah Nunn Travel Managers. Wangaratta and surrounds community have been generous with the ra e and auction items and prizes for the evening being donated by local businesses, organisations and artists.
The evening would not be possible without the signi cant nancial support of Winsec Savings & Loans.
Managing director Tony Ruvolo, said “we are proud to support WASP, because mental health and well-being are vital for building strong,
resilient communities”.
“If we can help raise awareness and foster conversations that can save lives, young and old, then that’s making a meaningful di erence in the lives of local individuals and families”.
Tables of six are $420 and individual seats can be purchased for $75pp, to book tickets visit https://www. trybooking.com/events/landing/1375158.
Drinks are available at bar prices.
This fun lled evening of entertainment and fundraising is not to be missed.
With great food, shared laughter, tables of six humming in strategic discussion when questions are posed, a huge auction and many great prizes, the evening is a power-
ful stage for community connection and friendly competition, in the spirit of generosity.
If you are in an emergency or at immediate risk of harm to yourself or others, please contact emergency services on 000. Other services include Lifeline at 13 13 14 or lifeline. org.au or Suicide Call Back Service at 1300 659 467 or suicidecallbackservice.org.au.
QUIZ FOR A CAUSE: Trevor Jenvey and Peter Joyce are encouraging locals to join in a suicide prevention fundraiser this weekend.
HAND CARVED: Jesse Cooper on the day of the carving of Wendy and Peter Lester’s handprints.
KING VALLEY NEWS
Covering Moyhu, Edi, Myrrhee, Whitfield, Cheshunt and Whitlands areas
Whitfield dairy plays host to Kelly Country Cattle Dog Trials
BY ANITA McPHERSON amcpherson@ nemedia.com.au
DOGS and handlers were put through their paces during a competitive cattle dog trial held in Whit eld in May.
Organised by Kelly Country Cattle Dog Trials, the event took place at Sheppard’s dairy, where competition was held in open, maiden and novice classes - and rst to third placings were awarded.
Kelly Country Cattle Dog Trials secretary and treasurer Brian Spencer explained dogs must work three head of cattle around an obstacle course which mimics real life farming scenarios including yards and races, while their handler gives instructions from a set position.
He said more than 80 dogs took part on the day, guided by more than 20 di erent handlers, some of whom were running multiple dogs.
“We run weaner cattle (six to 12 months old) so hold the events when farmers have the cattle available for us to use, as we don’t reuse them,” he said.
“Once three have gone through the run, they are put out in the paddock and don’t come back in - so we might need over 300 weaners for a single event.”
Mr Spencer said the club holds cattle dog trials around the North East Victorian region, with events held during the year in King Valley, Mans eld, Tatong and over the border in New South Wales.
He said the club also holds a few training days each year, run with both sheep and cattle.
“Part of our agenda is to teach
WANGARATTA Senior Citizens Club will host a pizza lunch from 12 noon on Wednesday, 28 May at its clubrooms, in Tara Court off Ford Street.
dog handlers the correct way to handle livestock in both paddock and stockyard conditions, ensuring safe handling of livestock, dogs and dog handlers,” he said.
“Livestock handling and working dogs have been part of our history from early pioneers through to the present time.
“New employees to the livestock industry nd it very di cult to adapt to the pressures of livestock
The club will also host indoor carpet bowls on Thursday from 1pm, Golden Oldies mix-up day on Friday from 10am and cards (500) on Friday from 1.30pm, indoor carpet bowls on Monday from 1pm and cards (500) and hoy on Tuesday from 1.30pm, all in the clubrooms or the adjoining St Patrick’s supper room.
PARKINSON’S Disease Support Group meets every Friday at the Wangaratta RSL for coffee at 10am, with those who are able meeting at the main entrance at 9.30am for a 30-minute walk prior to coffee.
Contact Dave James on 0409 011 953 or Ros Taylor on 0429 624 844.
ST Patrick’s Hall Indoor Market will be held in the Ford Street hall from 9am to 1pm on Saturday, 31 May.
There will be 24 stallholders displaying a range of goods, with more information available via the Market in the Hall Facebook page. Further markets are planned for the hall on 6 September and 6 December.
THE Wangaratta Royal Children’s Hospital Ladies Auxiliary will hold its winter stall at the St Patrick’s Hall market on Saturday, 31 May from 9am. The usual array of knitted goods, preserves ,cakes and freshly made lamingtons will be available.
RSL Wangaratta Women’s Auxiliary will hold a hoy day on Tuesday, 3 June from 2pm at the Wangaratta RSL Sub-Branch in Templeton Street.
Devonshire Tea will be served, and there will be a raffle and door prize. Entry $10 per person for the afternoon of fun. Contact the RSL on 5721 2501 to register your name.
BLOKES Time Out conducts regular gatherings and activities on the third Saturday of the month.
For details, visit gritandresilience@wangaratta. vic.gov.au
TOPS weight supporting group meets at The Centre each Monday from 5pm to 6pm.
Encouragement and company to support locals in managing their weight. Phone 0458 374 261.
WANGARATTA Symphony Orchestra meets each Tuesday
LOCAL EVENT: Following the open class dog trials held at Sheppard’s Dairy in Whitfield, (from le ) judge Bill Wilson congratulated Jeremy Lim, who came second, and Craig Ogier, who placed first and third.
GREAT START: At the end of the maiden class dog trials held in Whitfield it was (from le ) dog Spot and Rod Manning in third, Ceri Lewis placed second, and Cam Turner took out first place, with judge Craig Ogier.
mustering with dogs - especially if they don’t have the opportunity to learn from others.”
Mr Spencer said members of the group who are experienced livestock handlers and their dogs, will demonstrate correct procedures related to working both sheep and cattle in open and yard conditions.
He said they encourage handson commitment and will work
beside new members to demonstrate how to handle livestock safely while helping them train their dogs correctly.
The results of the novice category at the Whit eld event were Jeremy Lim in rst position, with Ceri Lewis second and Isla Bailey third, judged by Steve Arbuthnot.
To nd out more about Kelly Country Cattle Dog Trials, visit the club on Facebook.
Oxley Shire Hall celebrates 150 years
AN event to celebrate the 150th birthday of the Oxley Shire Hall will be held on Saturday, 28 June.
There will be a heritage display, kid’s activities, afternoon tea and wine tastings from 3pm to 5pm and an official welcome and birthday cake from 5pm to 6pm.
This will be followed by an evening of food, music and entertainment, with refreshments available to purchase, and all those with a connection to the hall are encouraged to come along.
King Valley winemakers feature on ABC’s Landline
LOCAL wine families were featured in the latest episode of Landline which aired on ABC television on Sunday at 12.30pm.
The episode, which described the King Valley as one of Australia’s most exciting, emerging wine regions, focussed on how the region has become known as Australia’s home of Italian wine varieties, and featured interviews and stories with the Pizzini, Corsini and Politini families.
It will be repeated on free to air this week or can be streamed anytime on ABC iview.
King Valley Film Club June screening
THE next screening of the King Valley Film Club at the Cheshunt Hall will be on Tuesday, June 10 with doors open at 7pm for a 7.30pm start.
The movie will be A Complete Unknown (2025), a biographical film about Bob Dylan, based on the 2015 book Dylan Goes Electric! by Elijah Wald, starring Timothée Chalamet, Edward Norton and Elle Fanning.
Annual membership is $40 per person (six films a year, on the second Tuesday night, bi-monthly) with more information and membership available at https://kingvalleyarts.com.au/film-club/
from 7.30pm to 9.30pm at Wangaratta Baptist Church, 1 Sisely Avenue. Email wangsymphonyorchestra@gmail. com or call Wendie 0408 495065.
WANGARATTA Concert Band rehearses on Mondays from 6.45pm to 9pm at the Avian Park Raceway Band Room in Newman Street.
New players welcome, contact Helen on 0401 021 448.
WANGARATTA Sing Australia
Group holds its weekly meetings each Wednesday from 7.30pm to 9pm at Purbrick Hall, next to Holy Trinity Cathedral.
All welcome. For details, call Cheryl Hoysted on 0419 005 062.
WANGARATTA Woodworkers Inc meet at the Wangaratta Showgrounds each Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday from 9am to 12 noon (closing earlier if no-one is present).
The rooms are open on the first and third Wednesday of each month from 5pm to 7pm, and Sundays from 10am to 1pm. All welcome. Contact Bevan on 0437 196 118.
WANGARATTA Family History Society opens each Thursday from 10am to 3pm in the local history room at the Wangaratta Library. Outside of these hours, assistance is available by appointment only by emailing wangfamhs@gmail.com or phoning 0474 443 626.
WANGARATTA Old Time/New Vogue Dancing is held every Tuesday from 7pm to 10pm at the CWA Hall in Templeton Street. Admission is $10, please bring a plate of supper to share. Entry also includes raffle ticket and lucky door prize. Phone 0431 190 630 for more information.
OSTINATO Wangaratta and District Community Choir meets each Tuesday from 7pm to 9.30pm at the Log Cabin, corner Faithfull and Chisholm Streets, Wangaratta.
New members welcome. Contact Helen on 0457 269278.
WANGARATTA Keenagers Table
Tennis competition is held at the Wangaratta Showgrounds each Monday and Thursday from 8am.
THE Cancer Council Victoria Wangaratta Volunteer Group meets on the first Monday of the
month at the Town and Country Tavern meeting room at 1.30pm.
CONNECTING Community Café runs during school terms on Thursdays from 10am to 11am at Intermezzo Café.
Learn what’s happening in the community, meet others and have a place to drop in, have a cuppa and chat. For more information, contact Open Door Neighbourhood House on 5721 9175.
CENTRE Quilters Circle meets on the second Thursday of each month from 10am in the Uniting Church Hall in Rowan Street. New members welcome, current members are willing to share their expertise and skills. BYO lunch. Contact Wendy on 5722 4415 or Leonie on 0403 226 129.
PANGERANG Ukes and More meets each Thursday from 5.30pm at Pangerang Community Hub. Cost is $5, and any instruments, as well as voices, are welcome. Enquiries to 0407 311 899.
THE North Eastern branch of the Embroiderers Guild of Victoria meets every fourth Tuesday at the Masonic Lodge in Appin St, Wangaratta. Beginners and experienced embroiderers welcome from 9.30am. Contact Jen on 0407 560562.
Annual Men’s Breakfast at the Quality Hotel
THE Cancer Council Victoria Wangaratta Volunteer Group will present its annual Men’s Breakfast at the Quality Hotel Wangaratta Gateway on Friday, June 13 from 7.30am to 9.30am.
There will be a panel discussion on melanoma, with guest Dr Simon Brettig from Ovens Medical Group in Wangaratta.
Tickets are $35 available by calling Barb Thomas on 0419 889 804 or email hlachamplin@ yahoo.com.au for bank transfer details, with RSVP required by 14 June.
Enjoy The Sounds of Simon & Garfunkel
THE Sounds of Simon & Garfunkel, celebrating the music of one of the greatest vocal duos of all time, will visit the Wangaratta Performing Arts and Convention Centre on Friday, 20 June at 7.30pm. Simon & Garfunkel reflected and defined the mood of the 60s with their close vocal harmonies and stirring songs, penned by Paul Simon.
The Sounds of Simon & Garfunkel is performed by Mark Shelley and Peter O’Reganwho have been touring and performing for decades in many different forms and guises - with bass player Christopher Soulos.
Featuring all the hits including Mrs Robinson, Homeward Bound, Sounds of Silence, Bridge Over Troubled Water and many more, experience the music that reflected the mood and social revolution of the era in this special show, with tickets available now at wpacc.com.au.
Ostinato to perform at the Oxley Shire Hall
WANGARATTA based community choir Ostinato will perform a concert called Sailing on Song at the Oxley Shire Hall in Oxley on Sunday, 22 June at 2pm.
Enjoy local voices singing traditional and modern music inspired by sailing and the ocean, accompanied by Sandra Williams and led by musical director, Ruth HillNoble.
Tickets are $20 for adults (under 16 by gold coin at the door) available at Trybooking. com/DAJEP.
St Patrick’s Hall indoor market on Saturday
AN indoor market will be held at St Patrick’s Hall in Ford Street on Saturday, 31 May from 9am to 1pm.
It will feature 24 stallholders showcasing and wide range of wares, plus the opportunity to enjoy a free cuppa in the Sip & Chat corner.
Future markets in St Patrick’s Hall are planned for 6 September and 6 December.
Take a sweet escape to world of Taylor Swift
A SHOW which captures the joy, energy and inclusiveness of a Taylor Swi concert will be presented at the Wangaratta Performing Arts and Convention Centre on Friday, 19 September at 7pm.
The uno cial tribute show, TAYLOR: A Tribute to the Eras of Taylor Swi Music, has announced east coast Australian show dates for spring, and early bird tickets are available this week.
Following Taylor Swi ’s own record-breaking Eras Tour, producers Showtime Australia said this concert provides an opportunity for fans all over the country, including those in regional areas, to get together with their fellow “swi ies”, celebrate their musical hero and be part of a fun and upli ing music experience.
The show is fronted by a “swiie” herself – New Zealand singersongwriter and recording artist, Josette.
Performing live on vocals, guitar and piano, Josette will be accompanied by an international cast of musicians and dancers for what is touted as a “joyous and effervescent concert” complete with sparkly costumes, cosmic stage production and over 20 exquisite renditions of Taylor’s biggest hits from every era of her career.
Sing along to hits including Shake It O , Anti-Hero, Cruel
LOVE STORY: TAYLOR, A Tribute to the Eras of Taylor Swi , is an all-ages show being held at the Wangaratta Performing Arts and Convention Centre on Friday, 19 September at 7pm.
Summer, You Belong With Me, Love Story, I Knew You Were Trouble, Blank Space, We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together, Bad Blood, Our Song, Lover and more.
Showtime said its mission is simply to make audiences believe, by carefully recreating the sound, look and charisma of the world’s greatest entertainers and give everyone the chance to relive the fun, frivolity, talent and
magic of some of our most loved music icons.
Discounted early bird tickets are on sale until 31 May with seats strictly limited, so patrons are encouraged to book early to avoid disappointment. Enjoy a fun night of singing, dancing and celebrating Taylor together at this all-ages event, with tickets at wpacc.com.au or call 5722 8105.
Fiction or fact, Wangaratta Book Fair has story for you
LOCAL book worms will have the opportunity to restock their shelves in time for winter when the Wangaratta Book Fair returns to St Patrick's Hall in Ford Street on Saturday, 7 June and Sunday, 8 June.
The Rotary Club of Wangaratta has once again joined forces with the Rotary Club of Appin Park Wangaratta to present two big days
for book lovers to rifle through thousands of second-hand titles in search of treasure at bargain prices.
Whether your interest is in fiction, non-fiction, classic tales, family favourites or children's books, every taste and genre are represented, and all are available at just $1 for paperbacks and $2 for hard covers. Wangaratta's Friends of the
All Outdoor Expo on this Sunday
THE All Outdoor Expo will be held this Sunday at the Wangaratta Turf Club from 10am to 2pm. Explore a wide range of outdoor stalls offering everything from 4WD vehicles, camping gear and bicycles, to fishing, hunting equipment and more, with entry free. There will also be informative presentations, and entertainment for kids, with a full program available at wangaratta.vic.gov.au/Community/Whats-On/All-Outdoor-Expo-2025.
Wangaratta Wahine 50th anniversary celebration
ARIA award winning singer, musician and all-round entertainer Mic Conway will celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Captain Matchbox Whoopee Band’s hit song Wangaratta Wahine with a show at The Vine Hotel in North Wangaratta on Thursday, 29 May from 7pm.
All are welcome to the special event centred around the 70s cultural phenomenon, with a number of guest local artists also performing songs written about Wangaratta. Limited tickets are still available by visiting thevinehotel.net.au.
Hospital will also be on site both days with lunch and refreshments available for purchase, to keep everyone's energy levels up.
The Wangaratta Book Fair will run from 9am to 4pm on Saturday, 7 June and from 9am to 3pm on Sunday, 8 June on the King's Birthday weekend, with entry by gold coin donation.
ARIES (March 21 to April 19) You might not like some people’s ideas of surprises. But you could be in for a pleasant shock when someone finally sends a reply to a request you made so long ago that you almost forgot about it.
TAURUS (April 20 to May 20) It’s a time to expect the unexpected. So, don’t be surprised if a decision that just recently seemed final suddenly opens up and leaves you with another chance to make an important choice.
GEMINI (May 21 to June 20) Taking a different tack on a work project might rankle some colleagues. But the positive results of your innovative course soon speak for themselves. Celebrate with a fun-filled weekend!
CANCER (June 21 to July 22) Meeting new associates can be awkward, even if you’re in a high, positive phase right now. Best advice: Make them feel comfortable, and you’ll soon forget your own discomfort.
LEO (July 23 to August 22) It’s a good time for you social Lions to blow-dry your manes, polish your claws, and look like the Fabulous Felines you are as you make new friends and influence the influential!
VIRGO (August 23 to September 22) Expectations run especially high this week, and you should feel confident in your abilities to take advantage of what might be offered. Meanwhile, a colleague has some advice you might find helpful.
LIBRA (September 23 to October 22) A recent flurry of activity leaves you in need of a little breathing space, and you’d be wise to take it. In other news, close family members should have an explanation about an emergency situation that just passed.
SCORPIO (October 23 to November 21) An insensitive act makes a difficult situation more so. But try not to waste either your physical or emotional energies in anger. Move on and let others fill the clod in on the facts of life.
SAGITTARIUS (November 22 to December 21) It’s a good time to look into a training program or college course you’ve been considering. You might have a good place to use these sharpened skills sooner rather than later.
CAPRICORN (December 22 to January 19) Education dominates much of your aspect during this week. You might want to start checking out summer session courses that could help advance your career plans.
AQUARIUS (January 20 to February 18) Making progress often comes by fits and starts. But at least you’re moving straight ahead with no backsliding! You should soon be able to pick up the pace and reach your goals in due time.
PISCES (February 19 to March 20) Be wary of a deal that gives confusing answers to your questions. Remember, it’s always risky swimming in unknown waters, so you need all the help you can get to stay on course.
SHAKE IT OFF: Performing live on vocals, guitar and piano, Josette will be accompanied by an international cast of musicians and dancers for a joyous and e ervescent concert celebrating Taylor Swi . PHOTO: Sam Nupen
IN PERSON BY PHONE
37 Rowan Street, Wangaratta 3677
CLEAN CUT: Here is an opportunity to expand your lawn mowing business or if you’re just starting out, Clean Cut has a number of accounts with an excellent wellestablished clientele who have been with Clean Cut for a long time. Please allow us to discuss this opportunity with you by contacting Chris at 0427 523 293.
CARPENTRY and plastering. Ph 0424 911 161.
CONCRETING , big or small jobs, paths, driveways, shed slabs, verandahs, 15 years experience. For a free quote phone Trev Anderson on 0422 200 761.
KITCHENS JUST FOR YOU, cabinet making solutions. Phone Roland 0414 950 647.
MARK ’S Mowing, reasonable prices, ride on mowing, edging, clean up, spraying and any rubbish and furniture removal. Ph 0472 603 156.
WHEELER Earthworks, available for all your earthworks needsyard clean ups, stump removals, driveways, material supply and spreading, rural work and more. Call Marcus on 0491 094 545.
30 free standing exchurch chairs, good condition, 1-$180 5-$625 ono. Phone John 0418 678 345.
DRY SPLIT
FIREWOOD Quality boxwood and gum available now, $170 per mete, dry, split, ready to burn, fast delivery available. Call G & JTree Services on 0474107631
TYRES new and secondhand, trailer, rims, wrecking. New hours 9am to 5pm, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, 44 Newman Street, Wangaratta. Ph 0428 257 221, Adzam Tyres.
DESIGNER van, built 2013, double axle, new tyres and brakes, toilet and shower combined, aircon, single beds, double water tanks, 90L fridge, excellent condition, $44,000 ONO. Ph 0460 582 811.
GALAXY SOUTHERN CROSS SERIES 4 17.6ft, pop up, excellent condition, no shower or toilet, double bed, diesel heater, full annex, tv and many extras available, full reg and 12 months insurance included Ph 0438 003 652 $23,000 ONO
Administration Assistant – Timbertop Campus
For
Supervisor – Timbertop Campus
OLDWARES , collectables, records, home wares, rustic, glassware and furniture. Items must be vintage, pre 1980. Call Rebecca 0400 327 696, or David 0418 665 420. No electrical, bedding or jewelery.
GARAGE / WAREHOUSE SALE, antiques, household goods, furniture packs and more. Friday, May 30, 2pm-5pm, Saturday, May 31, 9am start, 14 Gibson Street, Wangaratta - cash only.
2012 Holden Captiva, petrol, 184,000km, very good condition, (1DQ 3MD), $5,600. Phone Phil 0418 994 147.
NISSAN X Trail Ti, 2007, good engine but needs electrical work, leather interior, (UZS 288), $2000. Ph 0475 461 247.
2022 15ft Signature Iridium S Offroad Hybrid van, great condition, $49,900, more details on Caravancampersales. com.au. Ph 0418 609 877.
Visit Visited
One final march for the RSPCA Million Paws Walk
By JORDAN DUURSMA
THE RSPCA Million Paws Walk paraded for one nal lap, with 84 dogs and 120 people pounding the pavement on Sunday, 25 May to raise funds for RSPCA Victoria.
Walkers and pooches sent o the event with the Wangaratta Kennel and Obedience Dog Club at the Wangaratta Showgrounds all to help raise vital funds for RSPCA Victoria to care for more than 11,000 animals each year.
Organiser Nicole Oats said it was one of Wangaratta’s biggest Million Paws Walks.
“We weren’t expecting that many people, but I think the fact that it was the last Million Paws Walk, and the sun came out meant more people got involved,” she said.
“There was a great energy, people love their dogs and want to be part of the community.
“The event has been run-
ning for over 30 years so it’s a bit sad and disappointing that it’s nishing.
“There was some good feedback and discussions around getting something going locally alongside the kennel club in the future.
“I would like to thank the Wangaratta Kennel and Obedience Dog Club, long-time
organiser Jasmin Scott, and all RSPCA volunteers and sta for their work supporting the community and the rehabilitation of animals.”
Wangaratta local Alicia Noble, who was in attendance with her family and three rescue dogs for the fourth year running, described the event as fantastic.
“The weather was great, and the kennel club did a really good job of organising the event,” she said.
“There was some great camaraderie around the event and the crowd was really engaged.”
For Alicia and her family this cause is close to home.
“We’ve been rescuing dogs
and pugs for years, our oldest dog is 15, so for us this is really important,” Alicia said.
“We donate to a pug rescue and RSPCA frequently but it’s nice to get our family involved in the walk and raise money for the cause, especially since we lost the shelter this year.
“Now more than ever they
need a little bit of help.”
Long-time RSPCA supporter Loren Pavlik said he and his family have always supported the RSPCA.
Loren has been to 17 Million Paws Walks, while his wife has attended 21.
Loren was accompanied by his border collie cross German shepherd, Domino, who is an RSPCA recue dog.
“Domino is our third rescue dog, this event is very close to our hearts,” Loren said.
“It’s all about the interaction with other people and other dogs, but also about trying to raise some money for the RSPCA for the work they do.
“The government only funds them to a certain degree; a lot of the rest is from initiatives like the Million Paws Walk.”
To donate, visit https:// www.rspca.org.au/.
Sit, knit and crochet at the Wangaratta Library
By JORDAN DUURSMA
A GROUP of happy people meet up every Thursday a ernoon from 2pm at the Wangaratta library for their ‘Sit, Knit and Crochet’ group. New members are always welcome.
WORK IN PROGRESS: Lesley Menere.
GETTING CREATIVE: Maureen Hughes.
PROUD ARTIST: Lyn Johnston proudly showing o her cozy creation.
COMMUNITY CONNECTION: Wendy Richardson and Ruth Wolfel.
CREATING JOY: Phyllis Deering enjoys the knit and crochet sessions. PHOTOS: Kurt Hickling
BIGGEST ONE YET: eighty-four dogs and 120 people joined in the final Million Paws Walk in Wangaratta on Sunday.
ALL PAWS ON DECK: Carol Ward, Sambuca the border collie, Doug the dog mascot, Georgia MacDonald and Loren Pavlick with his border collie cross German shepherd, Domino.
FIRST TIME: For Tarrawingee man Allan Hooper and his eightyear-old groodle Reggie, Sunday was their first Million Paws Walk.
MATCHING PUPS: Ellen McDonald (le ), her Jack Russell Zoe and Bernadette Consantino with her Jack Russell Molly.
MILLION PAWS WALK: Jeremy Little and Alicia Noble with rescue dogs Lola, Lena and Lulu. PHOTOS: Bailey Zimmermann
GOALS: KANGAROOS: H. Jacka 8, A. Brett 2, J. Scheier 2, O. Reynolds 2, H. Ackerly 1, J. Crotty 1, O. Edwards 1, H. Wallace 1, M. Murphy 1, B. O’Keefe 1. COLLEGE: H. McKenzie 2, K. Tonkin 2, H. Lyster 1. BEST: KANGAROOS: H. Jacka, A. Symons, H. Ackerly, O. Edwards, B. O’Keefe, A. Brett. COLLEGE: H. McKenzie, H. Lyster, K. Tonkin, Z. Peebles, A. Peebles, D. Young.
GOALS: BRIGHT: T. Brierty 3, O. Dalbosco 2, E. Lodge 2, N. White 2, O. Lewis 1, H. Johnston 1, G. Banks 1, C. Garratt 1, A. Toy 1. IMPERIALS: M. Marek 2, H. Allen 1, B. McMonigle 1. BEST: BRIGHT: H. West, O. Lewis, a. murrells, F. Stephens, C. Garratt, N. White. IMPERIALS: P. Stamp, C. Flynn, A. Schultz, M. Marek, L. Cumming, L. Campbell.
Benalla 1.1 3.4 4.4 4.4 (28)
Centrals 6.4 8.6 12.9 12.9 (81)
GOALS: BENALLA: J. Byers 1, T. reeve 1, B. Hazell 1, A. Richardson 1. CENTRALS: R. Parsons 5, D. Balfour 2, R. McNamara 2, S. Steer 1, C. Kennedy 1, K. Wohlers 1. BEST: BENALLA: H. Carter, B. Blackford, L. Ham, N. Hogan, K. Thwaites, H. Blyss. CENTRALS: K. Wohlers, B. Mawson, R. McNamara, A. Fraser, A. Castle, J. Lewis.
Myrtleford
Junior Magpies
(19)
(98)
GOALS: MYRTLEFORD: S. Muraca 1, B. Hankin 1. JUNIOR MAGPIES: J. Parker 5, S. McIntosh 3, L. Sexton 2, J. Comensoli 2, H. Scalzo 1, C. Allan
1. BEST: MYRTLEFORD: B. McMasters, N. Robb, A. Morgan, R. Harris, L. McKeone, S. Muraca. JUNIOR MAGPIES: J. Parker, H. Scalzo, J. Comensoli, M. James, S. McIntosh, H. Tanner.
Tigers
(99)
(27)
GOALS: TIGERS: O. Mullane 3, X. Sheldon 3, J. Wickham 2, R. Webb 2, J. Knight 1, x 1, Z. Akers 1, M. Flanigan 1, A. Turner 1. MANSFIELD: A. Dunn 2, T. Kynnersley 1. BEST: TIGERS: L. Alexander, A. Turner, R. Webb, Z. Akers, X. Sheldon, T. Rowley. MANSFIELD: A. Dunn, S. Kain, A. Daniels, T. Kynnersley, H. Banks, J. Fleming.
Kangaroos
College
GOALS: KANGAROOS: C. Ackerly 2, M. Coleman 1, B. Jackson 1. COLLEGE: C. Bowman 2, C. OBrien 2, J. Tonkin 1, L. Pensak 1, L. O’Brien 1. BEST: KANGAROOS: C. Ackerly, L. Solimo, B. Jackson, N. Gigliotti, D. Jeffries, A. Mccoy. COLLEGE: C. Bowman, L. Pensak, J. Borschmann, K. Hope, L. Da Silva, C. O’Brien.
Bright
Mansfield Blue
GOALS: BRIGHT: D. Finlaw 1, O. Kelly 1, K. Buckland 1, H. Bruneau 1. MANSFIELD BLUE: J. Kynnersley 3, M. Storer 3, L. Stevenson 2, A. Vasey 1, R. Purday 1, W. Hewitt 1, . 1, J. Heath 1, T. Bowen 1. BEST: BRIGHT: H. Bruneau, C. Wood, A. Humphry, D. Garratt, W. Bailey, X. Paul. MANSFIELD BLUE: J. Kynnersley, L. Stevenson, M. Storer, R. Purday, H. George, D. Mercieca. Benalla Red 5.4
(134) Imperials 0.1
(33)
GOALS: BENALLA RED: C. Nolen 4, T. Mount 3, J. Binion 3, H. Bast 3, A. Leavold 2, J. Hart 2, J. Pollard 1, X. De Fazio 1, C. Bowen 1, E. McKean 1. IMPERIALS: H. O’Brien 1, B. Letica 1, S. Newton 1, W. Startin 1. BEST: BENALLA RED: J. Hart, X. De Fazio, C. Nolen, J. Binion, T. Mount, J. Pollard. IMPERIALS: S. Savage, G. Marek, B. Letica, T. Sealey, S. Newton, H. O’Brien. Myrtleford
(142) Junior Magpies
GOALS: MYRTLEFORD: A. Knobel 8, C. Schell 3, N. Durling 2, S. Lupo 2, C. Herbert 1, B. Parolin 1, N. Harris 1, M. McMasters 1, B. McMahon 1. JUNIOR MAGPIES: L. Cannata 1, S. Patterson 1. BEST: MYRTLEFORD: S. Lupo, A. Knobel, B. Parolin, N. Harris, B. McMahon, D. Hilton. JUNIOR MAGPIES: R. Sessions, S. Briggs, W. Maiden, J. Nesbitt, L. Bott, S. Tredinnick. Tigers
(45)
(64) Mansfield Yellow
GOALS: TIGERS: B. Kantor 3, P. Edwards 1, L. Benton 1, M. Flanigan 1, Z. Williamson 1, H. Sharp 1, K. Ackroyd 1. MANSFIELD YELLOW: C. Bretherton 3, S. Daykin 2, H. Kent 1, B. Turner 1. BEST: TIGERS: J. Conroy, M. Flanigan, R. Lack, K. Ackroyd, H. Sharp, N. Mwendwa. MANSFIELD YELLOW: B. Turner, J. Hoskin, B. Clifton, C. Bretherton, S. Daykin, N. Martin. Benalla Black 5.3
(13)
(112) Centrals
GOALS: BENALLA BLACK: O. Wardill 5, O. Parker 4, J. Montgomery 4, J. Bamford 1, H. Ross 1, Z. Peisley 1, R. white 1. CENTRALS: J. Walkerden 1, J. Oats 1. BEST: BENALLA BLACK: J. Montgomery, R. Hilton, J. Bamford, H. Ross, O. Wardill, A. Lambert. CENTRALS: N. Jones, F. Fletcher, W. Boulton, A. Fraser, H. Muraca, R. Sinclair.
MADDOX COLEMAN
PATRICK RUSSELL
EARNEST BYRNE
CODY WILLOUGHBY
MICHAEL SACCO
MAX TUCKER
ZAC FREEMAN
TOM HILL
LUKE KELLY
Sport as a force for good
From back page Kasi, who grew up in regional Victoria and spends most weekends cheering from the boundary line, said she knows rst-hand how powerful these environments can be when it comes to shaping attitudes, especially for young people.
“When a coach pulls a player aside and talks about respect - not just on the eld, but in how they treat othersthat sticks,” she said.
“And when club leaders and players take a stand, others follow.
“That’s what this project is all about - supporting clubs to lead, to model respect, and to be part of a long-term movement to prevent violence in our communities.”
The CAV will partner with a selection of sporting clubs across the Ovens and Murray and Ovens and King leagues to deliver tailored workshops, leadership sessions, and practical tools to help embed a culture of respect and gender equality within club life.
Players will play an active role in ensuring the initiative is a success, contributing their voices to ensure the program re ects the lived experience, culture, and language of local clubs.
The project has been rigorously evaluated by La Trobe University’s Reducing Gender-based Violence (ReGEN) Research Group, based at the Violet Vines Marshman Centre for Rural Health Research.
INTERLEAGUE
Their work will help measure impact and contribute to a growing evidence base for what works in preventing sexual violence in community settings.
“It’s exciting to be part of something bigger - something that’s happening across the country, but starts with real people, in real communities, having real conversations,” Kasi said.
“We have put a power of work into this project, so to receive this funding and see it come to life is incredibly rewarding.
“It shows what’s possible when communities come together with purpose.”
To learn more about the national initiative, visit: www. prevention-partners.com.
GV rules interleague netball
By SHANE DOUTHIE
THE youngest of the Ovens and Murray netball teams provided the highlight on Saturday against the Goulburn Valley winning the 15 and Under interleague bout comfortably 69-38.
It was far tougher encounters in the other divisions with the Open team going down 31 - 68 and 17 and Under side pipped at the post 50-52 at Wangaratta’s W.J Findlay Oval.
Ovens and Murray Open coach Kellie Keen said the GV had too much experience and knew each other’s game better than the home side.
“Three of their attacking players all came from the one club which really made a di erence,” Keen said.
“We had four teenagers in our
team, Lily Kelly, Maddy Lieshke, Holly McCarthy and Kaliesha Pell, who have all been standouts in the home and away rounds so they really earned their spots in the side.
“Just blooding players like this makes it worthwhile and gives them an opportunity to take it to the next level.”
Keen said she would be keen to take on the role again, “if they have me” she said.
In the meantime the O&M will look towards the Netball Association Championships with the nals to be held at the end of June.
15 & UNDER
In a dominant display, the OMFNL defeated the GVL 69–38.
The OMFNL were able to con-
trol the match from start to nish, showcasing sharp ball movement and strong defensive pressure.
Best on Court honours went to Bella Bowles (Raiders), who led from the front with a commanding performance. She was well supported by Lucy Tinkler (Raiders), who was outstanding in the shooting circle, converting 46 of her 47 attempts.
Goals: Ellie Robinson 31/38, Sarah Head 6/9, Avie Hill 1/2.
OPEN AGE
The GVL dominated the Open netball clash against the SS&A
OMFNL, securing a commanding 68–31 victory.
GVL’s Hollie Read (Euroa) was named Best on Court for her in uential performance, while the GVL’s Olivia Morris (Euroa) starred in the shooting circle with a near-perfect display, scoring 54 goals from 55 attempts.
Despite the loss, OMFNL’s Grace Hay (North Albury) and Hannah Symes (Yarrawonga) were standout performers for their side.
OMFNL: 4 – 12 – 20 – 31.
Goals: Emily Stewart 12/15, Lou Madden 10/11, Lily Kelly 7/12, Kaliesha Pell 2/7.
GVL: 15 – 34 – 48 – 68.
Goals: Olivia Morris 54/55, Mia Sudomirski 14/21.
17 & UNDER
The 17 & Under xture provided a thrilling representative clash. Despite trailing by four goals at the nal break, the GVL surged home in the last quarter to claim a memorable win, edging out the OMFNL in a nail-biting 52–50 victory.
Rhani Hendy (Mooroopna) starred for the GVL and was named Best on Court.
For the OMFNL, Milly O’Kane (Wangaratta) and Molly Moylan (Wodonga) were among the best, playing key roles throughout the contest.
Greta moves up with confidence boosting win in A grade
By SHANE DOUTHIE
NORTH Wangaratta’s hopes of scoring their rst win in Ovens and King A grade netball this season were gradually extinguished by Greta who went on to record their second win of the year 44 to 23.
A er a tight rst quarter the Blues took control increasing the margin by each break to take the points and move above King Valley on the ladder into eighth position.
In fact the entire round saw comfortable wins for the victors with the closest margin Whorouly’s seven goal win over Goorambat in the match of the round. Scores were level, 10-10 at quarter time, still level at the main break, 20-20, before the Lionesses took the advantage by two goals going into the final quarter where the accuracy of their goal shooters proving the difference, particularly Abbey Forrest who scored 20
goals at 90.91 per cent.
Michele Button shone for Goorambat also scoring 20 goals.
Bright dominated Benalla All-Blacks to cruise to a 73-37 win and stay in the top four and within striking distance of a top two nish.
Milawa showed its class to shrug o a determined Moyhu and hold onto top spot on the ladder by percentage with its 49-34 triumph.
The Hoppers were well in touch at half-time trailing by
a gettable seven goals but the Demons exed their muscles in the second half to draw away comfortable 15 goal victors.
Emily Canny with 30 goals and Jami Ussher with 19 continued their hot form this season.
Tarrawingee had the bye. This weekend’s round 10 matches o er some mouthwatering match-ups with Bonnie Doon and Bright facing each other in what should be the match of the round.
Lapses prove costly for Devils
Cobram Roar make the most of their opportunities against Wangaratta City
By SHANE DOUTHIE
MAKING the most of brief windows of opportunity gave Cobram Roar the edge over Wangaratta City in last weekend’s round of AWFA.
The Roar took the points 5-1 and City coach Vitaly Leschen felt frustrated with the nal margin.
“We’re obviously disappointed with the result,” Leschen said.
“They scored two goals in the rst 15 minutes which really put us on the backfoot but I was happy with the way we responded for the next 30 minutes.
“But then they scored another two quick goals before the end of the half and that made things really tough.”
The Devils were able to regroup to a certain extent a er
that but were unable to really bridge the gap.
“We kept on ghting in the second half and even got a goal back but it proved a bridge too far,” he said.
Oscar O’Kee e played one of this best came up and the experienced Connor Delaney and Joel Van Der Leew were impressive in the mid eld in their rst senior games this season a er being promoted from Division 2.
“It really shows the depth we have in Division 2,” Leschen said.
The Division 2 side won their match on Sunday 3-0 and sit in third position on the ladder.
The Lady Devils also went down losing to Cobram Roar 2-4, with goals to Hannah Swindley and Beth Oliver.
IN CONTROL: Joel Van Der Leeuw has the ball on a string.
PHOTOS: Kat De Naps Photography
TOO QUICK: Eleisha Baker weaves through tra ic.
CONSISTENT: Hannah Swindley scored in the Lady Devils loss to Roar.
WANGARATTA Chronicle photographer Melissa Beattie made her way down to junior netball on Saturday to capture some action. Photographs can be purchased at the Chronicle.
MILLA CHANDLER
JASMINE CAMPBELL
HAZEL WYLIE
SCARLOT ADAMO
MILLY HIGHAM TARA BARNIK
KATE PRESTON
CHARLOTTE ELKINGTON
MARLEY HIGHAM
IVY ROBERTS
ISLA WALDHART
KEIRA O’SULLIVAN
WAIT FOR IT
Alannah Cassidy looks for a path to her forwards during the clash with North Wangaratta.
Reports page 14.
Sport as a force for good
FROM the sidelines of a local footy match to the buzz around the netball courts, sport is a powerful part of life in regional Victoria. It brings people together, builds identity, and teaches the values of teamwork, fairness, and respect.
Now, thanks to a major national partnership, it’s also the foundation of a bold new e ort to prevent sexual violence before it occurs.
Local project takes on sexual violence through the power of community
The Centre Against Violence (CAV) is one of just nine organisations across Australia selected to lead a project under La Trobe University’s Partners in Prevention of Sexual Violence initiative.
The CAV “Tackling Consent” project will work directly with local sporting
clubs to equip them with tools, training, and support to drive positive cultural change from the grassroots up.
Set to roll out across North East Victoria in 2026, the project will focus on engaging not just club leaders, but players themselves, particularly
young people, who are often the heart of club culture.
“In country towns, sport is more than a game...it’s where kids nd mentors, where families connect, and where lifelong values are shaped,” said Kasi Burge, strategic projects advisor at the CAV.
“We are not here to tell clubs what they’re doing wrong; we are here to celebrate the strengths they already have and build on them.
“This is about creating safe, inclusive spaces where everyone feels respected, valued, and seen.
“It’s clear that the sporting community here is ready to roll up their sleeves and be part of creating safer, more respectful spaces for everyone.”
■ Continued page 13
“We have been encouraged by the support and openness we have received from many local clubs over the past couple of years.
