Community mourns tragic death of arts advocate
$45,000 in grants for groups
D-Day for Demons
ROTARIANS (from left)
Adam Pizzini and Keith Snowdon, with Jai Canny from Canny's, have plenty of stock ready to go for the Wangaratta Book Fair on the June long weekend.
Full story page 15
PARKING meters will soon be removed from Wangaratta’s CBD has part of a switch to app-only paid parking.
Changes will be visible in the coming weeks, including the removal of all of the city’s 72 parking meters, as well as new signage across the CBD.
Motorists will have to use the
EasyPark App for all paid parking spaces, a new system costing council $221,000 over eight years.
To ease the transition, the Rural City of Wangaratta has created a webpage with detailed instructions on using the EasyPark app.
EasyPark representatives will be available at the community kiosk
on Reid Street today, from 10am to 2pm.
They will also be at the kiosk on selected days over the next month to provide assistance.
Council rangers will also be on hand to o er support with downloading and using the app, which is usable in numerous locations across Australia.
Paid parking operates Monday to Friday, 8.30am to 5pm and parking is free on weekends.
All CBD parking must be paid for via the EasyPark app.
While EasyPark can be used in the Co-Store carpark, the vouchers cannot, as it’s operated independently from council-managed parking.
■ Continued page 5
However, for those unable to access the app, monthly or yearly CBD parking vouchers, linked to a single vehicle registration, are available from council’s planning and building counter. These vouchers apply to timed CBD parking areas, but not the costore carpark.
NFamily, community members pay tribute to Dianne Mangan, killed in two car collision Saturday
orth East Victoria has lost one of its greatest champions of the arts, with the passing of local creative and former Wangaratta Art Gallery director Dianne Mangan.
The 73-year-old was travelling from her Beechworth home to attend the opening of the Wangaratta Contemporary Textile Award exhibition on Saturday a ernoon when she died in a two-car collision at Everton Upper.
The tragedy has le Di’s family, the Beechworth community, and members of the North East arts scene in mourning for a gi ed ceramicist, passionate arts advocate, and much-loved mother, grandmother and friend.
Her only son, Justin, his wife Marcia and their daughters Isabel and Olivia, who knew the esteem in which their matriarch was held locally, have been comforted in recent days to see the recognition expressed for Di’s work, and her passion for the arts sector and its place in the region.
Justin said the loving mother and grandmother “always wanted to bring out the best in people”, and he remembered a woman who cared deeply for her family, was generous including with her time for others, and who loved the simple pleasures of life.
Isabel said: “She loved good food, good wine, a good movie, a good book, and good conversation.”
Olivia added: “She shared her love for art and gave my sister and I the greatest gi of creating.
“I remember weaving grasses when I was around 10 and she thought it was so special she hung it on display in her living room, where it has remained for the past 15 years.
“She was always inspired by those around her, and instilled unwavering con dence in our ability to make something simple into art.”
Prior to her move to the North East, Di worked as a
BY SIMONE KERWIN skerwin@ nemedia.com.au
gallery assistant in South Melbourne, having built on her study of art and design at Caul eld Institute of Technology, and ne art - ceramics at RMIT to complete a master’s degree of art administration at CoFA UNSW and enable her move into the gallery sector.
Proximity to the snow and the chance to pursue a passion for skiing brought the Mangans to Wandiligong in the 1980s, where Di set up a studio in a former church to work on her ceramic art, the beginning of her contribution to the local arts scene.
“One of the things I really admired was that drive she had to do what needed to be done; she was so passionate,” Marcia said.
“She loved her role with the Wangaratta gallery, and always wanted to make sure the best exhibitions could be shown here.”
Di continually honed her own work in ceramics, and also loved painting, explaining on her website that she believed “with regular work practice, intuition, expression and ideas keep owing”.
She was well-known locally through the Wangaratta Art Gallery director role she held with the Rural City of Wangaratta from January 1998 to July 2016, and during that time was also part of a working group which planned for development of the Wangaratta Performing Arts Centre.
Her role with council extended to see her become cultural services manager, which involved overseeing the performing arts centre, library, gallery and events in the rural city.
Di ran the O Centre Gallery and Studio in Milawa from 2016 to ‘21, a project which was interrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic but helped showcase a stable of North East and Australian artists working in a
diverse range of media.
She exhibited her ceramic works extensively in her early career, and more recently in a solo and group exhibitions; her work is included in the permanent collections of Parliament House Canberra, Sydney’s Powerhouse Museum, Launceston’s Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery, and other public and private collections in Australia and abroad.
Rural City of Wangaratta manager arts culture and events Simone Nolan said Di, who was her supervisor when she began work in the gallery sector in 1998, was “a fantastic mentor, not just for me, but for many creatives in the region”.
“Over her 18-and-a-half years in Wangaratta, she achieved a great deal; she was an advocate, a lobbyist, and an artist in her own right,” she said.
“Di was an impressive creative thinker who has le an incredibly important legacy for the arts in our region.
“She had a really critical eye, curated numerous exhibitions throughout her career, and was dedicated to working alongside the artists she represented and presenting them to a greater audience.
“Di was a dear friend and the greatest critic, who provided feedback ever so gently
and with care - that’s what a true mentor is.
“As an arts leader in the community, she’s le a huge legacy, including the Wangaratta Contemporary Textile Award - that was her baby.
“She came up with the idea that Wangaratta’s textile story needed to be told by combining our city’s social history with contemporary textile arts practice, and it was Di’s initiative to start the award, she had a vision that it was to be Wangaratta’s point of difference and what it was to be known for.
“She lobbied local government to take the arts seriously, and that is why Wangaratta can be proud to have an established regional art gallery that collects signi cant artworks from across the country. She was driven, passionate and had a vision that she worked to make a reality.”
Nina Machielse Hunt, owner/director of the Beechworth Contemporary Art Space which exhibits Di’s work, said she met Di on moving to the region and they quickly became rm friends.
“She was a genuine and passionate advocate for art and artists; this was re ected in everything she did,” Nina said.
“Di was also an outstanding artist; her celebrated ceramics works were exquisite - perfectly-designed and formed, porcelain, unique and distinctive, world class.
“She participated in numerous important national exhibitions and international design events.
“Artists right across the region were fortunate to have Di’s relentless, passionate and professional support.
“She advocated for countless emerging artists and brought outstanding artists to our region through her time as gallery director and art business owner.
“Her legacy remains in the incredible ceramic pieces she created and in the textiles award she instigated at the Wangaratta Art Gallery.”
“Evil
The court heard Ahmad Al Essawi, 23, was oblivious to the terror he instilled in local victims
A STANDOVER man who attempted to extort Wangaratta and Wodonga tobacco stores which were later rebombed was sentenced to two years behind bars.
Ahmad Al Essawi, 23, sat straight-faced in a green tracksuit from a Port Phillip Prison link at Wodonga Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday as he learned he would be in custody for at least the next 18 months.
The court heard the Doreen man pleaded guilty of two frightening extortion attempts with threats to destroy property at Wodonga Gi s, and Ramseen Gi s, Wangaratta on 4 July, 2023, acting on behalf of an underworld criminal syndicate in the state’s war for control of
the tobacco trade.
He rst arrived at Wodonga with an unknown co-o ender between 3pm and 3:38pm, telling a female employee they had 24 hours to shut the shop and hand him the keys, or it would be burnt down.
“We’re the Iraqis from Melbourne… we’re coming to take over the shop,” Al Essawi said.
The middle-eastern man, with an imposing 6’4’ build, sporting a black pu er jacket and tracksuit pants continued to make threatening demands for around two minutes.
At around 4:27pm the same day, the two men arrived at the rear entrance of Ramseen Gi s on Murphy Street, Wangaratta to confront another female employee at the door.
“I’m a reasonable man, but my bosses are unreasonable,” Al Essawi said.
“If you are not out by the next 24 hours, there’s going to be big, big headaches for this shop. My job is to send a message, that’s it.”
The frightened store worker then told the 23-year-old she lived at the premises.
“I can’t help you with that, you’ll have to sort it out with the bosses,” Al Essawi said.
Both incidents were lmed by the unknown associate and distributed in a WhatsApp messenger group, believed to contain members of the criminal syndicate they were serving.
Both videos were obtained by police and played at court.
In the early hours of 27
July, both Wodonga Gi s and Ramseen Gi s were extensively damaged by re.
Al Essawi was not accused of being involved in the arsons.
The same woman who was threatened by Al Essawi at Wangaratta was rescued by CFA a er the Murphy Street store was gutted by the blaze.
A victim impact statement submitted to the court heard of the intense trauma the woman had experienced since the incident, saying it had “stolen my life”.
Al Essawi has been in custody since he was arrested and charged by police at his home on 23 January this year.
Defence counsel Natasha Freijah pleaded for leniency for her client and said the
23-year-old had undergone rehabilitation programs in the nearly two years since the incident occurred.
The court heard Al Essawi had not helped in assisting police with their investigation.
Prosecutor Anthony Albore said the Doreen man’s role within the major criminal syndicate could not be understated, and his o ending was of grave concern for the community.
Magistrate Ian Watkins said Al Essawi’s o ending was cold, calculated and showed a complete disregard for the welfare of the people who stood in his way.
“You behaved in an evil and terrifying manner, oblivious to the impact you had on the female employees,” he said.
“The footage reveals the incidents were terrifying for the victims…. that meant nothing for you.
“You used your physical stature and manner to terrify two victims who were just going about their business.”
In his sentencing, Magistrate Watkins noted the court needed to set a strong standard for people who behave in such manner, setting a nonparole period of 18 months. Al Essawi was also ned an accumulative $1150 for other driving, the of identi cation cards and drug possession charges. He was also sentenced for imprisonment for possession of an imitation ‘Desert Eagle’ pistol.
By SIMONE KERWIN
BEING prepared for emergency events and power outages will be made easier for Open Door Neighbourhood House and its community through a $30,000 grant from AusNet.
Provided via the second round of the power company’s Energy Resilience Community Fund, the grant is part of $1 million being distributed across Victoria.
AusNet executive general manager distribution Andrew Linnie said the fund supported projects designed to help build long-term community energy resilience and provide support during severe weather events.
“We are actively investing in our network to improve reliability and resilience. Through these grants, we’re pleased to contribute further to help build community energy resilience and assist people to stay connected and safe during prolonged outages and emergencies,” he said.
AusNet established the $12 million Energy Resilience
Community Fund following storms in February last year, to support projects across its electricity distribution network in Eastern and North East Victoria, and Melbourne’s north and east.
Pangerang Community Hub in Ovens Street has previously received a grant through the fund and had its solar power and battery installed earlier this year, and now Open Door will do the same.
Gady Parker from Open Door said the $30,621 grant from AusNet would fund a 7.6Kw solar and 6Kw battery system at the Burke Street house, for the back-up of critical circuits which will provide light and power at the site during emergency events and outages.
In addition, Indigo Power has assisted with the application process, easing the path to solar energy.
“We had considered the option of solar over the years to reduce costs, and this funding gives us the opportunity to do so,” Ms Parker said.
“It will ensure people can
charge phones, still have food in their fridges, and that we can respond to the community’s needs much more easily and quickly, especially during major weather events, ooding and drought.
“Indigo Power o ered their services pro-bono to do project management with the Energy Resilience Community Fund grant, to assist us through the process, as this helps towards their goal of creating a world powered by renewable energy, and it makes it so easy for us.
“They manage everything and keep us informed, which is wonderful - to have someone who can talk you through it so you understand and can then explain it to the community.”
Ms Parker said it was expected the system would be installed between now and September at Open Door Neighbourhood House.
Meanwhile, grants for the next round of the Energy Resilience Community Fund opened on 26 May.
For further information, visit ausnet.com.au/ercf.
O
THE return of all but one Independent to federal parliament, at this stage, has Helen Haines heading into the next three years in familiar territory and with experience and allies on her side.
wangarattachronicle.com.au
At Wednesday’s declaration of the poll, Indi’s incumbent federal MP was announced as the o cial winner of the seat of Indi in this month’s 2025 federal election, in front of a couple of dozen ‘orange army’ supporters and she seemed energetic to head back to parliament when it resumes on 22 July.
It was a convincing third-term win for Dr Haines with an 11,794vote margin over closest rival, Liberal James Trenery.
Australian Electoral Commission divisional returning o cer Deborah Giosserano read out the results of primary votes with Helen Haines (Independent) 44,270, Mitch Bridges (Labor) 8860, James Trenery (Liberal) 32,476, Athol Thomas (One Nation) 7619, Alysia Regan (Greens) 3838, Tim Quilty 1706, Michael White (Family First) 1901, Ben Howman (Legalise Cannabis) 3162, and Mark McFarlane (1518).
As a footnote, Ms Giosserano said the votes are not necessarily the nal gures for each candidate.
BY STEVE KELLY skelly@ nemedia.com.au
“I anticipate that while there are zero votes to be received by my ofce to be counted, there may be slight variations as a result of nal sortings – these votes will not affect the nal result of the election,” she said.
Dr Haines, and Family First candidate Michael White, were the only candidates in attendance on Wednesday.
The third term MP spoke a er the declaration about Brad eld and Goldstein being the only seats without a con rmed result.
“We’re still waiting on a couple of seats, of course, Brad eld and Goldstein, but the crossbench has fewer Greens, for example, only one Green compared to four before, but it looks like all but one of the Independents have been returned to the parliament, possibly an additional one, so we’ll wait to see,” she said.
Despite Labor having a large majority, Dr Haines said it won’t change the way she operates.
“I’ve only every worked with a government that has a majority, so
in terms of how I operate, nothing changes,” she said.
“I continue to do the work out in the electorate, take that through to the federal parliament and in uence it in the ways that I have before.
“I’ll be seeking to push the government very hard on their investment in rural and regional Australia on infrastructure particularly around roads and health care and the housing and here in Wangaratta of course we’ve got some big projects that we’re seeking funding for so I’ll continue to work with our community groups and local government to pursue those agendas.”
Dr Haines said her o ce has been busy since the election with many people wanting to speak to the returned MP.
“I have written to key ministers in the 48th Parliament to outline the key platforms and issues that I will be pursuing for Indi,” she said.
“This work re ects the clear priorities of the people of Indihousing, cost-of-living, healthcare, childcare, regional infrastructure and action on climate change.
“These are the platforms that I took to the election and will guide my advocacy in the new parliament.”
annual festival, which will run from 4pm to 6.30pm, is a powerful reminder that even small, everyday moments can make a big impact on our lives and mental health.
Stallholders keen to be part of the event, including local groups, clubs, services and organisations which can provide engaging, inclusive and interactive stalls are encouraged to register their interest before Friday, 27 June at https://forms. office.com/r/JQEQXjv8Q9 GC all set for reopening in June
By SIMONE KERWIN
WANGARATTA’S Grand Central Hotel will reopen to the public on King’s Birthday weekend, following an eight-month closure.
The 115-year-old hotel has been undergoing its first major renovation in 30 years, creating a shift in Wangaratta’s nightlife since its temporary closure in late September.
It will reopen on Saturday, 7 June, featuring a new-look cocktail bar and restructured nightclub.
SUPPORTERS: Hoping the community will support the current appeal are (from le ) NHW maternity team members Kate Stirling, Hannah Gorter, Taya Allen, Caitlin Poulter and Matt Bolte with Isabella Szeligiewicz (10 months), Paul Szeligiewicz, Amelia Szeligiewicz (5 years) and Grace Szeligiewicz
AVA Dining in Milawa will host a special fundraising dinner on Friday, 25 July, with all proceeds going to support the Northeast Health Wangaratta (NHW) Newborn Critical Care Appeal.
This community-focused evening will feature: snacks on arrival, a ve-course dinner with expertly matched beverages, and one entry into the evening’s ra e.
Tickets are $130 per person and doors will open from 6pm.
Guests will also have the chance to take part in a silent auction and ra e, with all funds raised going towards the purchase of two neonatal resuscitation units - critical equipment that will support the safe care of newborns at NHW.
Bookings are essential and can be made via scanning the QR code (at right).
NHW chief executive o cer Libby Fi s thanked Ava Dining for leading this initiative and hosting what promises to be a standout evening of food, community and generosity.
HELP RAISE $70,000 to care for newborns TO DONATE VISIT: nhw.org.au/appeal
“We’re incredibly grateful to Ava Dining for taking the lead on this event and choosing to support the appeal,” she said.
“It’s a great example of local partnership in action, where great food meets a great cause.
“We’re calling on more local businesses and community members to get involved and help us give our youngest patients the best possible start in life.”
Paul Szeligiewicz, head chef and owner of Ava, said the business is proud to be part of something that brings the community together while supporting a service as essential as NHW.
“We’ve put a lot of love and e ort into this event because it means a lot to us,” he said.
“NHW helped ensure the safe arrival of our three baby girls, and we’re incredibly grateful for that.
“We hope future families receive the same level of care.
“We’ve created a menu that showcases the best local produce, and we’re looking forward to a great night.”
Donations to the NHW Appeal help fund the purchase of two state-of-the-art Panda Neonatal Infant Resuscitation Units.
Every donation, large or small, contributes to better health outcomes for the region.
All donations of $2 or more are tax-deductible.
To make a donation, visit: nhw.org.au/appeal.
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“Residents, workers, and visitors are encouraged to familiarise themselves with the EasyPark system or to purchase a CBD Parking voucher to avoid fines,” Stephen Swart, council’s director of sustainability and culture, said.
Users of the EasyPark app on a casual plan will incur an 11.5 per cent charge on top of the actual parking fee.
For more information about the fees visit https://www.easypark. com/en-au/help/ payment-pricing/whats-the-cost-of-usingeasypark.
“There are a variety of paid and free parking options throughout the CBD precinct from one hour to all day parking,”
DIGITAL:
By STEVE KELLY
A KERBSIDE glass collection service will begin in Wangaratta and surrounding towns on a quarterly pick-up basis from September but the expansion of FOGO bins to new towns has been put on ice.
Wangaratta councillors unanimously agreed to pause the food organics and garden organics (FOGO) bin roll-out as it will allow for proper consultation and a clearer response to state government guidelines.
The alternative motion put forward by Cr Harvey Benton that will essentially introduce a quarterly collection of 80-litre purple-lidded glass recycling bins but defer the roll-out of the FOGO bins to the new locations, the latter contrary to the council ofcer’s recommendation.
Glass collection bins will be delivered to properties in Wangaratta, North Wangaratta, Waldara, Killawarra/ Kensington Drive, Wangaratta South, Glenrowan/ Hamilton Park, Oxley, Milawa, Tarrawingee, Eldorado, Whorouly, Everton, Peechelba, Springhurst, Moyhu,
Whit eld and Cheshunt ‘township’ and ‘low density residential’ zones. Council will undertake a comprehensive community engagement and education campaign to inform them of
Sit back and relax in our new cellar door. Enjoy great food, great tunes, and superb wines in a laid-back and picturesque setting in the middle of our vineyard. On the Menu:
We will be cooking up a storm with our homemade Italian-style sausages (perfect any time of day but a particular favourite on Sunday morning), Whole Baked Brie with Walnuts & Honey, Bang Bang Chicken Skewers and Crispy Polenta Chips.
the adopted change to the kerbside service.
Cr Harry Bussell said it was long overdue to have a purple bin, albeit he had concerns about the 80-litre volume as it might be too small.
Mayor Irene Grant said it was a service the state government was asking local government to provide to the community.
“We’re seeing this glass collection, and into the future
on how the green FOGO bins will be rolled out probably depends on what the state government provides back to the community,” she said.
Cr Allison Winters was happy to see community
engagement and education included in the alternative motion.
“I believe it’s really important that we clearly communicate the reason why the purple bins are really important to the community and it’s more than ‘we’re being told to do this’,” Cr Winters said.
“It’s also really important to have glass out of our landll and recycling bins and to where it can be of best use.”
Residents will receive glass bins and collection services at no charge during the 202526 nancial year.
Council has already engaged more than 600 residents and students through education programs and this will continue in June with the community.
The new bins will be delivered to properties in July 2025, with commencement of the service in September.
Owners of units with a density greater than 8-units/ apartments can negotiate and customise their kerbside bin service.
Some 11,830 properties will receive a glass collection bin and the service is expected to divert more than 1000 tonnes of glass annually.
By STEVE KELLY
GRIEVANCES over a 230lot subdivision and wastewater treatment facility in South Wangaratta were aired at a local four-day Victorian planning panel meeting last week.
The rezoning and subdivision are proposed to take place at Clarkes Lane and plans show that the integrated water management facility (IWMF) is marked for establishment at Targoora Park recreation reserve.
Nearby residents are opposed to the development on the grounds of its high density, including lot sizes down to 328sqm, tra c concerns, and the location of the wastewater treatment facility.
An objector present at the panel hearing last week, Jenny Hart, who lives nearby, said the matter has gone to the panel because there were several aspects needing to be resolved with queries from each of the referring authorities.
“This includes the Environment Protection Authority, North East Water, and North East CMA over issues with the IWMF,” Ms Hart said.
“There are lots of unresolved issues and this development can’t go ahead without the IWMF getting its
licence from the EPA.”
Ms Hart said council is generally supportive to the ‘innovative solution’ to shortterm housing demand but by providing this sewer solution the question remains about the long-term solutions.
“Is this a short-term bandaid solution which becomes permanent and can’t be undone because the Low Density Residential Zone [LDRZ] will be rezoned to General Residential Zone (GRZ), simply to satisfy a short-term solution of some interim sewerage capacity, which should be North East Water’s responsibility to resolve in the long-term?” she asked.
“If this amendment goes ahead and they construct this development, this area is now permanently GRZ with 230 lots developed.”
Ms Hart said the major issues from nearby residents with the IWMF are the concerns around odour generation, the volume of water and its discharge into One Mile Creek.
A considered lack of open space in the subdivision is a concern, even though Ms Hart said it is meeting its ve per cent.
“The proponents say they’re delivering more but it’s not viable, active open space that’s going to promote
healthy lifestyles and wellbeing as it’s such dense living,” she said.
If the project was to be approved, several objectors would like the subdivision to be less dense and the IWTF to be on the private land of the subdivision.
Ms Hart contrasted the situation to the northwest and south growth corridor areas where private land has now become public land to accommodate submerged retention tanks to store sewage.
This was carried out as a solution for Wangaratta’s urban sewer capacity issues. However, Ms Hart said that in the Clarkes Lane permit, plans are for the proponents to be gi ed the land for the IWMF including a storage pond.
“This particular proponent is being gi ed recreational land and they’re reaping their $60 million project value,” she said.
The panel has 20 days a er the conclusion of the hearing to recommend changes to the Rural City of Wangaratta and the panel report must be made public a er 10 days of receipt.
Councillors will make a decision to approve the permit and it will then be sent to the minister for planning.
Conosci i tuoi diritti e le tue responsabilità per poter discutere di sicurezza sul posto di lavoro.
Per parlare con WorkSafe avvalendoti di un interprete, chiama il numero 131 450 o visita il sito worksafe.vic.gov.au/italian
Scan for information in Italian.
To speak to WorkSafe with an interpreter call 131 450, or visit worksafe.vic.gov.au/languages Workplace safety is our common language
Understand your rights and responsibilities, so you can talk about safety at work.
THE Garry Nash & Co Community Fund has once again shown the generosity and giving spirit which the Wangaratta community prides itself on.
The funds has awarded 20 different community groups and projects a share of $45,797 to strengthen and support those who make our rural city a community.
By awarding a share of the fund to so many different local projects, a wide variety of groups within the wider community will be touched by the benefits.
The funds will support volunteers, notfor-profits, emergency support groups, primary schools, local arts, aged care organisations, preschools and kindergartens, community halls, health providers, sporting teams and much more.
Every organiser, volunteers or group member knows how far each of these grants will go in supporting our community in its diverse and meaningful events, projects and groups.
As a community it’s crucial for us to recognise and celebrate those who do an extraordinary job of supporting those who are making a difference in Wangaratta.
For the fourth year running, the Garry Nash & Co Community Fund, along with the generous donations, have been able to provide a helping hand to those who get the job done.
This is a fine example for other local businesses on how to be a team player and give back to the community who support you.
It’s time to ask yourself how you can be involved in our community to build connections, encourage your neighbors, lend a helping hand or offer some practical help.
Donations can be made via the Into Our Hands website https://intoourhandsfoundation.com.au/fund/garry-nash-co-community-fund/.
FACEBOOK users this week commented on Victorian Nationals distancing itself from the federal coalition split.
• Judy Heather: They are different parties and thankfully have different directions but are our only conservative pair that we have. They need to be different but come to a compromise for the betterment of Australia. Australia is made up of cities, regions and rural, but currently only cities
and partial regions are being looked after. Rural needs the coalition.
• Leslie Matthews: It’s time the Nats and the Libs read the tea leaves. The Coalition at both State and Federal levels is now in terminal decline..
• Paul Crabb: Coalition of devision and self interest ! Facebook users this week commented on Wangaratta Council’s reminder to motorists that the CBD has switched to
THE mainstream media have a lot to answer for in what happened between the Liberal and National parties since the election of Sussan Ley as the Liberal leader.
They were so negative and said she was only a stop gap leader until someone else with a higher pro le stood up against her.
They said the opposition would be in the wildness for at least the next six years.
They obviously did not understand the elections result as Labor only got 35 per cent rst preferences and got a large amount of second preferences from the third who did not vote for either major party.
So, for the bene t of the country, could all the Liberal and National parties’ members stand behind their present leadership and promote strong policies which will entice the third of voters who did not vote for either of the major parties to change their preferences at the next election.
I am still to work out why people vote for the Teal candidates as they are not united into a political party, thus have no policies on immigration, defence, national security etc..
The individual policies which stand out are “not in my backyard” and “help the billionaires get richer using taxpayer dollars”.
NOTE: Comments as they appear online, without corrections.
app-only parking.
• Mike OConnor: Dropped into Wangaratta on a recent cold, damp day Thought a coffee and a light lunch would be in order. The cover on the parking machine said to download an app to pay, so I just moved on.
• Paul Maiden: So are the elderly going to pay for this when not all have smartphones or the capability to use said app
• Joanne McKellin: Paul Maiden they don’t care
• Eric Douthie: Pity the council make it hard for residents and visitors including the elderly with no tech knowledge
• Leslie Matthews: Excellent idea..
• Judy Collins: Leslie Matthews I’ll message every time I park and you can pay for it given you think it’s an excellent idea
• Leslie Matthews: Judy Collins No worries Judy
• Andrew Meloury: Watch the fines roll out
Our follower total is Like the Wangaratta Chronicle Facebook page to have your say.
15,336
John Walker North, Wangaratta
TO mark Menstrual Hygiene Day (28 May), national charity Share the Dignity has written to every local councillor and mayor in Australia, urging them to take action on period poverty by joining the Council Cares program, a grassroots initiative that equips councils with practical tools to promote menstrual equity.
As part of this outreach, Share the Dignity has provided each council with access to localised statistics from the 2024 Bloody Big Survey, the largest dataset of its kind, with over 150,000 menstruators surveyed in Australia.
Now, councils can see how their own community compares, and take action before the next Bloody Big Survey in 2027.
The Council Cares program invites councils to provide free access to period products such as by installing Dignity Vending Machines in public spaces; among other things. Anyone can support the movement by emailing their local council and encouraging them to take part.
A pre-written email template is available
FAMILY CELEBRATED LYN’S 80TH: Family members travelled from Brisbane, the Gold Coast, Melbourne and Adelaide for an early celebration of Lyn Briggs’ 80th birthday in Wangaratta recently. Members gathered at the Pinsent Hotel for dinner on Easter Saturday, ahead of Lyn’s birthday on May 9. Pictured are (from le , back) Patrick Edwards, Ebony O’Donohue, Danny Craven, Peter O’Donohue, Georgia Kelly and Emma Kelly; (front, from le ) Linda O’Donohue, Brit Broben, Jasper Craven, Xavier Craven, Ron Briggs, Lyn Briggs, Kylie Wealands, Damien Kelly and Kim Wealands. Lyn’s eldest granddaughter Breeana O’Donohue was unable to attend because she is working in London however Lyn is holding the phone with Breeana’s photo on it. Xavier’s wife Liv was unable to travel from Brisbane because she was pregnant, soon to give birth to Lyn’s great grandson.
at: www.sharethedignity.org.au/end-periodpoverty/council-cares.
Rochelle Courtena, Share the Dignity founder and managing director
THIS Sunday the Wangaratta community will come together to celebrate a special moment in recognition of two remarkable locals, Peter and Wendy Lester.
Earlier this year, Peter and Wendy were honoured as Wangaratta’s Citizens of the Year, a well-deserved acknowledgment of their outstanding contribution to our community.
Their dedication and generosity have le a lasting impact, and this weekend, their handprints will be added to the Marmungun Rock at Apex Park as part of Reconciliation Week.
The Marmungun Rock tradition, instigated by the late Uncle Wally Cooper, is a powerful symbol of unity and reconciliation.
It serves as a meaningful reminder of the importance of recognising and respecting all cultures, and it’s heartening to see this tradition continue in such a thoughtful and inclusive way.
This week in parliament, I was proud to acknowledge Peter and Wendy’s contribution and highlight the signi cance of the Marmungun Rock as part of our ongoing journey toward reconciliation.
Congratulations again to Peter and Wendy - and thank you for all you have done for Wangaratta.
I look forward to attending the unveiling and celebrating this proud moment with our community.
Tim McCurdy, Member for Ovens Valley
Facebook users this week commented on local lobby group and politicians final rally to prevent solar farms in the King Valley.
• Natalie Duszynski: How ironic. With the drought the most productive paddocks right now are those which are being used to generate solar energy.
• Leslie Matthews: The horse and cart is somehow quite symbolic given the backward attitude of some of those opposed to the Solar Farm.
• Robert Rosicka: Leslie Matthews The horse and cart is very symbolic of where we are heading if we adopt a solar , wind and battery approach to powering our country . It has not worked for any other industrialised economy and for a Few reasons , cost and renewables can’t produce baseload electricity generation . So when everything goes black because the grid fails the only way around will be horse and cart because you won’t be able to charge your Tesla .
• Jessica Conroy: Robert Rosicka nailed it !!! Haha great comeback Robert. So buy a horse and cart and a generator Leslie Matthews, as your computer won’t work, so there goes your day job of trolling comments
• Leslie Matthews: Robert Rosicka delusional nonsense
• Leslie Matthews: Jessica Conroy actually my ‘computer’ works off solar energy, I’ll bet yours runs on steam.
• Jessica Conroy: Leslie Matthews it won’t be working
on solar energy today Leslie! Thank-goodness for the rain more today hooray
• Leslie Matthews: Jessica Conroy it is actually. never heard of stored energy?
• Brett Francis: Leslie Matthews can always build it in your backyard...
• Helen Senior: Brett Francis he won’t. He’s got his head in sand and won’t investigate the real truth.
• Leslie Matthews: Helen Senior the ‘real truth’ ? that’s quite amusing..
Our follower total is Like the Wangaratta Chronicle Facebook page to have your say.
15,336
wee bit of pottery on Sunday while shooting some more portraits for the @ beechworthartscouncil #familyalbum #exhibition #pottery marc_bongers_photographer
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X USERS this week commented on a footy game between Shepparton and Golburn Valley, the second Bishop of Wangaratta and the opening of the Inland Rail project at Wangaratta Railway Station.
Wangaratta RoversFNC @wangrovers
@Sheppbears & @GVLeague midfielder Ned Byrne literally bent the post at the WJ Findlay Oval on Saturday! @oandmlive @bordermail @wangchronicle @ctryfootyscores
AustralianAnglican @AustAnglican
29 May 1952: death of the Rt Revd John Stephen Hart, aged 85. Second Bishop of Wangaratta 1927-1943. Fifth Dean of Melbourne 1919-1927. #anglican #73years Biography: http:// adb.anu.edu.au/biography/hart-john-stephen-6590
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Wangaratta Station opens completing Inland Rail tranche 1 http://dlvr.it/TL1hSt #InlandRail #RailNews #VLine #Melbourne #victoria
If you have something to say, add our handle @wangchronicle to your tweet and we will publish some each week.
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This morning I attended the Rural City of Wangaratta’s #SorryDay event hosted by brother & sister Anita and Kevin (Cooper). They shared their fathers story of being stolen & his journey to return to family, to Country. Extraordinarily moving & deeply place based.
LOCAL projects across the Rural City of Wangaratta will receive a boost this year, with 20 groups awarded a share of $45,797 through the 2025 Garry Nash & Co Community Fund, managed by Into Our Hands Community Foundation.
The grants support initiatives that strengthen wellbeing, access to services, education, community connection and local arts, with recipients ranging from schools and kindergartens to health providers and grassroots volunteer groups.
Marion Nash of Garry Nash & Co Community Fund said the diversity of successful projects shows the value of exible, small-scale community grants.
“Each year we’re impressed by the dedication and creativity of local groups,” she said.
“These grants allow them to get on with the job - whether that’s running mentoring programs, repairing community halls, or supporting people facing illness or isolation.
“It’s about building connection, encouraging participation and o ering practical help.”
Now in its fourth year, the Garry Nash & Co Community Fund continues to provide grassroots organisations with funding opportunities which will aid in the implementation
of many local projects.
It is administered by Into Our Hands Community Foundation, with oversight from a local advisory panel from Garry Nash and Co. GN & Co Community Fund appreciate and thank all donors who have assisted in making these grants possible.
Donations can be made via the Into Our Hands website https://intoourhandsfoundation.com.au/fund/garry-nashco-community-fund/.
The successful 2025 projects are:
Big Brothers Big Sisters Wangaratta
Funding will support the coordination of mentoring relationships between trained adult volunteers and vulnerable young people, helping build confidence, stability and social connection.
Centre Against Violence
The grant will enable victimsurvivors of family violence to access social and recreational activities with their families, supporting recovery and community reconnection.
Goulburn and North East Arts Alliance
The Across the Arts Festival will bring people together through creative workshops and performances, marking 25 years
of the event in Wangaratta.
North East Emergency Action Group
Funding will support the 2025 North East Emergency Expo, which raises public awareness of disaster response, preparedness and local emergency services.
Open Door Neighbourhood House
The Caring and Ageing Well Festival will promote active ageing, community support and access to services for older residents across the region.
MHA Care (Moira Shire)
This grant will help Moira
FoodShare provide emergency food relief for individuals and families in crisis, addressing rising food insecurity.
Whitfield District Primary School
Students will help develop and maintain a small-scale “mini farm” that supports hands-on learning and wellbeing, while strengthening local food literacy.
Beautiful You Program
The funding will assist women undergoing cancer treatment with house cleaning and other support services, easing the burden during a vulnerable time.
Venus Moves Therapy and Education
A wellbeing playgroup hosted at Carraragarmungee
Primary School will provide parenting support and connection for rural families with young children.
Glenrowan Preschool
Funds will go towards creating an outdoor climbing and adventure space, encouraging physical development and imaginative play.
Wangaratta Festival of Jazz and Blues
The grant will support the festival’s free community stage and precinct programming, ensuring local access to nationally recognised music and culture.
Wangaratta High School
Classroom novel sets will be purchased to enhance learning across English programs, reducing the cost burden for students and families.
LINE Wangaratta
The Pride Hub project will provide a welcoming space for LGBTQIA+ young people and their allies to connect, socialise and access information.
Wangaratta Hockey Club
A new defibrillator will be purchased for emergency preparedness, improving safety for players, volunteers and spectators.
Bobinawarrah Hall
Repairs to the storeroom and purchase of a community BBQ will support gatherings and events in this important rural community space.
Wangaratta Lions Club
A defibrillator will be installed to improve public safety during community events and at the club’s regular meetings.
Wangaratta Players Inc.
Funding will replace an ageing kitchen fridge at the theatre, supporting hospitality for cast, crew and community hirers.
Wangaratta Prostate Support Group
Printed materials and outreach activities will promote peer support and raise awareness of prostate health across the district.
Wangaratta Girl Guides
A digital projector and motorised screen will improve meeting presentations and educational activities for local Guide units.
Wangaratta West Kindergarten
The funding will support delivery of the Dolly Parton Imagination Library program, providing free books to support early literacy development at home.
By JORDAN DUURSMA
WANG Night Shelter is opening three out of the seven nights of the first week of June, with the hope to open every night this winter with more volunteers.
Starting 2 June, the shelter will offer a warm meal, a safe place to sleep and community connection on Mondays at the Wangaratta Wesleyan Methodist Church on Alpine Rd, Thursdays at Zac’s Place on 1-3 Wills St and Fridays at the Uniting Church on Reid St.
As more volunteers are trained, the shelter team hopes to open the additional four nights from the second week of June.
Including, Tuesdays at The Salvation Army Wangaratta Corps on the corner of Greta Rd and Buchan Ave, Wednesdays at Victory Community Church on Ryan Ave and Saturdays and Sundays at Wangaratta Seventhday Adventist Church on Phillipson St. It’s not too late to register for Volunteer Shelter Orientations at Zac’s Place, to be held on Monday, 9 June from 7-9pm and Tuesdays 3 and 10 June, from 2-4pm.
To get involved or for more information, contact Wang Night Shelter via email at wangnightshelter@gmail.com or come along to a volunteer orientation session.
To keep up to date, follow Wang Night Shelter on Facebook.
FRONTIER Touring has announced five-time ARIA award-winning artist Katie Noonan will embark on a 20date headline tour across Australia, performing the works of Jeff Buckley’s iconic album Grace, visiting the Wangaratta Performing Arts and Convention Centre on Friday, 10 October.
Celebrating one of music’s most notable albums, Katie first introduced her unique adaptation of Jeff Buckley’s Grace live during five soldout nights at Sydney Festival, and has described the 1994 release as the single biggest influence on her own musical journey.
Joining Katie as special guest will be Melbourne-based artist Georgia Fields; the singer-songwriter collaborating with Andromeda String Quartet as part of the evocative, genre-defying show. Tickets are available now at wpacc. com.au or by calling 5722 8105.
BUILDING HEALTHIER WORKPLACES: Members of the Wangaratta business community completed a two-day mental health first aid training program, building skills, awareness, and support for a mentally healthier workplace. A $2000 Australia Post grant for Project 365 will go towards mental health initiatives in the area, potentially including an extension of the scholarship program.
AS the rst round of a mental health rst aid scholarship program reaches completion in Wangaratta, a $2000 Australia Post grant could assist in further boosting this vital support within local businesses.
An initiative coordinated by the Wangaratta Grit and Resilience Program and marking the rst on-the-ground use of funds raised by local mental health initiative Project 365, the scholarships have so far empowered 27 people with specialised mental health training.
Participants came from a range of sectors, including hospitality, retail, health, tourism, manufacturing and agriculture, ensuring workplaces across the region are better-equipped to address mental health challenges in their circles.
Business owners and sta completed two days of training facilitated by St John Ambulance, covering mental health rst aid, recognising and responding to crisis situations, and the essentials of mental health and wellbeing.
As a result, 974 community members connected with those businesses will bene t from enhanced mental health support in their workplaces.
$2000 from Australia Post to help Project 365 in its important work
BY SIMONE KERWIN skerwin@ nemedia.com.au
Project 365 founder Pete Rourke said the group was keen to keep encouraging important conversations about mental health, and had “de nitely put the foot on the pedal” through the scholarships.
“It’s like having soldiers on the ground; if we can saturate our community with mental health rst aid support, we will go a long way to ensuring our community is healthy,” he said.
“We know how important mental health is in the workplace, and this program has provided local businesses with the tools they need to create safe, supportive environments.
“Project 365 is excited about expanding the mental health rst aid scholarship program to support more small-to-medium businesses.
“Our vision is to make Wangaratta the healthiest place to work
and live when it comes to mental health.
“The impact goes beyond just the workplace - this training can be used anywhere, anytime, helping individuals support their families, friends and communities.”
Pete said the funds provided through the recently-received Australia Post grant would go to the Project 365 sub-fund of the Into Our Hands Community Foundation, where it would be used for projects potentially including a further round of scholarships.
“This assistance goes a long way to helping us achieve what we want to achieve as an organisation,” he said.
“So many people have been generous, and this is another good shot in the arm which adds to that ‘ripple e ect’ we talk about, and it has a huge impact on the community.
“Our sincere thanks to Australia Post, this means a lot.”
The $2000 People of Post grant was part of $400,000 in grants donated by Australia Post to more
than 200 community and not-forpro t groups across Australia, many of them focusing on mental health.
The program o ers Australia Post workers the chance to nominate local groups they believe need support, and Project 365 was nominated by Australia Post Wangaratta’s Polly Kenny.
“We’ve seen a lot of people coming in wearing the Project 365 shirts, so did a bit of checking up on what they were all about, and thought it was a fantastic cause,” Polly said.
“Most of us know someone who has experienced mental health concerns, and with the mental health rst aid scholarships initiative one of the things they’re involved with, it was a big plus to be able to support them.”
Pete said important conversations about mental health would continue at Project 365’s inaugural gala ball on Saturday, 16 August at the Wangaratta Turf Club.
“Tickets will be released for that in coming weeks - it will be another opportunity for us to come together, celebrate the things we have achieved and raise some more funds for the cause,” he said.
By JORDAN DUURSMA
JENNY McGregor has been honoured for her 22 years of involvement and service as a life member and literature convenor with the Wangaratta University of the Third Age (U3A).
The U3A is an international movement whose aims are the education and stimulation of mainly retired members of the community - those in their third ‘age’ of life.
U3A de ne the ‘third age’ as a time in your life (not necessarily chronological) where you can undertake learning for its own sake.
Jenny said she has been involved in a leadership role which has given her the opportunity to explore and share her passion for literature.
“Learning is a life long thing, I believe strongly in keeping your mind active and engaged, and I like the philosophy of U3A to do that,” she said.
“U3A has also been an opportunity for me to build community and connections with likeminded people.
“It’s certainly been a great experience and a journey.”
Stepping down from her leadership role, Jenny said she
encourages other people to get involved with U3A.
“It’s a very worthwhile activity to do and there are great people involved in it,” she said.
“There is a wealth of knowledge from so many di erent people from di erent walks of life.
“I did it because I loved it, but it’s time now to step away and do something else.”
U3A provides learning, social and physical activities to retirees, and o er a community to help people get the most out of their retirement.
For more information contact U3Awangaratta@gmail.com.
BY ANITA McPHERSON amcpherson@ nemedia.com.au
A SPECIAL event to celebrate the 150th birthday of the historic Oxley Shire Hallone of the Rural City of Wangaratta’s most signi cant rural buildings - will be held in Oxley on Saturday, 28 June.
The hall committee is preparing a multi-faceted celebration, which will include a heritage display and family fun in the a ernoon, a birthday cake and o cial ceremony, followed by food, music and entertainment into the night.
It promises to be the type of occasion be tting a hall which is beloved by its community and has been at its heart since it was built in 1875.
The hall was used as the council chambers for the Oxley Shire up until 1966, and is believed to be the oldest continually used community building in North East Victoria.
When it fell into disrepair in the mid-1970s, a group of residents who recognised its historical signi cance embarked on a decades-long campaign to save it, restoring and reinstating it as the active community hub it is today, home to a weekly table tennis competition, lm screenings, trivia nights,
events, meetings and the centrepiece of the Oxley Bush Market.
A local committee of 20 volunteers, authorised by the Rural City of Wangaratta, now manages and oversees the hall’s operations, and the committee says it is supported and assisted in every way by the Oxley Residents’ Association and the wider community.
Committee member Don
Heath said a sub-group of the committee is bringing the event together, with wine tasting and a variety of food trucks to be among the attractions.
“We’re hoping to catch up with people who helped get the renovation o the ground back in the ‘70s, many of who are still around,” he said.
“We’ll also be putting up historic photos for people to look at, and there will be en-
tertainment for the kids too.”
Fellow committee member Janet Heath said they are endeavouring to reach out to everyone who has had a connection to the hall, or been involved in the restoration process, and encouraging them to bring both their memories and memorabilia along.
“We’ve got lots of historical memorabilia of our own to share, and we’re hoping de-
COMMUNITY ASSET: Janet and Don Heath are among the committee members involved in the hall’s restoration, and they invite new community members and old to the 150 year celebration.
scendants of those involved in the hall from the very beginning - right back to 1875 - will come on the day,” she said.
“We also want to encourage people who are new to Oxley to come along, get an understanding of what has been going on, perhaps get involved, or just get to know more people in their community.”
The 150th birthday cel-
ebration of the historic Oxley Shire Hall will be held on Saturday, 28 June with all welcome to enjoy family fun including a heritage display, kid’s activities, a ernoon tea and wine tastings from 3pm to 5pm, an o cial welcome and birthday cake from 5pm to 6pm, followed by an evening of food, music and entertainment, with refreshments available to purchase.
LAST weekend the weather gods blessed 48th Historic Winton with two-days of sunshine for its new program of historic car racing, happy crowds, inaugural trophies and quality rare and unusual car displays.
Presented by the Austin 7 Club (Vic), Historic Winton is well-known as being Australia’s most popular historic race event presenting racing cars from the very beginning - more than 100 years ago - to the mid-1980s.
The national event opened with a marvellous parade of
Austin 7s from the 1920s and 30s celebrating the 75th Anniversary of the founding and organising club, the Austin 7 Club (Vic).
Crowds packed into Winton Motor Raceway watching edgeof-your-seat racing, viewing the race cars in the competition paddocks and marvelling at the displays; from much loved Holdens to more exotic types, such as a very early European Kiblinger, a massive 1921 American La France re truck converted into a road car, and a wood-panelled, three wheeled cycle car.
Other highlights included the awarding of the inaugural Bill Sheehan Trophy, which went to the late Brenda Campbell who was event secretary of Historic Winton for many years and went on to hold a number of in uential roles in Australian historic motorsport. Historic Winton founder and short track designer Bill Sheehan was on hand to present the trophy to Brenda’s husband, Grant Campbell, who is equally accomplished. Another rst was the running of the Ted Brewster Trophy, which saw a national
eld of racing Minis battle it out on the Winton Motor Raceway track.
The winner was South Australia’s Jason Armstrong in his 1964 Mini Cooper S which streaked ahead of the already fast eld like a driver possessed to win the award celebrating the achievement of Mini race legend, mentor and car engine, Ted Brewster, now 90.
Competitors continued the tribute with a dinner with Ted as the guest of honour.
The 49th Historic Winton will be held on 30 and 31 May 2026.
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
“It was also an opportunity to understand a lot more about mental health, because there are vast differences in the different types of mental health issues people experience.
“Everything we learnt can also be translated into everyday life, including for yourself.
“I recently lost my wife to breast cancer, and the course helps you recognise things within yourself that may need attention.
“Over the time I took to deal with the loss of my wife, I had to learn to let other people in and to talk about how I was feeling, and walking every morning has also helped me.”
The scholarship program has empowered 27 individuals with specialised mental health training, aiming to bolster community support across Wangaratta and foster resilience and wellbeing.
Participants came from a range of sectors, including hospitality, retail, health, tourism, manufacturing and agriculture, ensuring a wide selection of workplaces across the region are better-equipped to address mental health challenges.
Business owners and staff completed training facilitated by St John Vic.
“I think it’s fantastic that this has been offered to the local business community,” Chris said.
“There are quite a few of us at North East Funerals with that knowledge, which is very helpful.
“For every business to have at least one person who has completed a mental health first aid course would make a big difference, because the more people speak about it, the better it is.
“For anyone who hasn’t done the course, I’d say it is well worth doing. Definitely put your hand up and do it if you get the chance.”
By JORDAN DUURSMA
A FUNDRAISER held over the weekend saw $2000 raised to support local business owner and cruise night organiser, John Giggins, to build his dream car following his stage four brain cancer (Glioblastoma) diagnosis.
The lm screening of Running On Empty at the Wangaratta Cinema Centre saw 128 people rally behind the cause and about 20 cars meet up for a
show and shine in the car park beforehand.
Initially $1920 was raised from ticket sales and John Coxhell from the Wangaratta Cinema Centre chipped in the extra amount to bring the total to an even $2000.
The funds will go toward John’s medical support and family, as well as helping him build his dream car - a 1980 Ford Falcon XD, done up as Dick Johnson’s Bathurst winning ‘Tru Blue’ race car with a
small-block 351 V8 engine and ve-speed manual gear box.
John’s long-time friend of nearly 30 years, Heath Lloyd, said the event was a success and everyone in attendance had a ball.
“It’s a 1980s movie so the acting is pretty crappy but that’s half the fun and it was nostalgic for all of us,” he said.
“It was very nice to see so many people coming out again, we’ve had a couple of fundraisers and they’ve all gone exceptionally well which is obviously
a testament to the sort of guy John is.
“The funds will go a long way to helping John and his family, and they were very thankful for the community support.
“Before the lm played John yelled out a big thank you to everyone in cinema.
“I would like to thank everybody that came along and John Coxhell from the cinema for putting it on.
“It’s great to see our community being a community.”
By ANITA MCPHERSON
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 ri e through thousands of second-hand titles in search of treasure at bargain prices.
Whether your interest is in ction, non- ction, 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.
The Rotary Club of Wangaratta’s Keith Snowdon said long-time supporter of the event, Canny’s of Wangaratta, have been looking a er their huge stockpile of donated books free of charge, and will deliver the loaded pallets to St Patrick’s Hall on the day before the fair opens.
He said they will then be laid out on big tables in St Patrick’s Hall ready for browsing, with up to 20 volunteers from both clubs rostered on over the weekend to keep topping up the tables and operate the EFTPOS machine.
Entry to the fair is by gold donation and all proceeds from the event will be used by both Rotary Clubs to support a range of local community projects and worthy
causes, such as youth development, education, health and local events.
It’s a great way to indulge your own love of reading and stock up the bookshelf for the year to come, to purchase a ordable gi s for family and friends, or maybe try something new, knowing money spent at the fair will go back into the community.
Wangaratta’s Friends of the 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.
By GRACE FREDSBERG
THERE’s something about talking death and dying that might seem uncomfortable or taboo; but everyone has questions about it.
The Good2Go Collective are inviting people from the North East to participate in an open and refreshing conversation on this subject at the Good2Go Expo, a free event coming to The Stage Door (4D Evans Street), Wangaratta on 1 June, with a mission to bring knowledge and, where appropriate, humour to this stigmatised issue.
Highlights will include comedian Stell Muses with her show, ‘Laughing with Death’, emotional expression and healing sessions with art therapist Lucinda Fraser and
a screening of ‘In the Realm of Death and Dreaming’.
Rose Sexton of the Good2Go Collective is an end-oflife “doula” - a title typically reserved for birth “doulas” who engage a non-medical role in pregnancy, bringing with them a willingness and expertise in that area.
Rose’s role is virtually the same; except her area of expertise is in death and dying.
Her work as an end-oflife consultant at End Stage Matters and her role at the Good2Go Collective has helped promote death literacy through events and workshops, navigation and coaching and Advance Care Planning (ACP).
She has an extensive history in this industry, with more
than 40 years nursing experience and quali cations in palliative care.
“In around 2017, it really became clear to me that people needed more support and there was a gap,” Rose said.
“A lot of the super-developed western cultures have
managed to relegate death to the shadows.
The upcoming expo, as well as the death cafes she runs every month, through the Good2Go Collective challenge this widely accepted notion and instead encourage people to be open about their experience with death and dying.
“I’ve heard people say, ‘why didn’t I do this earlier?’ and ‘oh, I wish I’d known all this ve, 10 years ago’,” she said.
“Sometimes we think there’s this big, scary thing chasing us and then we turn around and realise it’s just a little kitten.
“Death is a part of life… if we cooperate with that, we’re going to get much better experiences.”
Rose said in today’s soci-
ety, we’ve lost touch with the communal aspect of death and dying; no one knows what to do or how to react to the subject.
“We are all thinking that no one wants to talk about it, and yet there was a report that came out in around 2016 that actually found people did want to talk about it but thought that everyone else didn’t,” she said.
“So we’re all sitting around thinking, ‘I’d like to talk about death’.
“My passion is to reclaim that inner knowing and that community, the fact that the community knows how to support somebody.
“I long for a world where people know how to support someone who’s grieving and how to support
someone who’s dying.”
The Good2Go Collective is a group of like-minded people working to bring more events like this to the area. If you’ve been waiting to jump at the chance to ask your burning questions about death and dying, the Good2Go Expo, hosted by the Good2Go Collective, is the perfect opportunity to do so.
Additionally, information about ACP, Will preparation, funeral planning and other resources about death will be available on the day.
Visit https://events.humanitix.com/copy-of-good2goexpo-wangaratta for more information, or scan the QR code attached to this article. See more about the Good2Go Collective via G2gproject.com.au.
YEAR 2 students stepped back in time during their exciting camp to Beechworth, donning period costumes and diving into gold panning, museum visits and hands-on history.
It was a golden experience all around.
HERITAGE FUN: CCW students Eli Taylor, Thomas Liddell and Jax Gray explored the historic wonders of Beechworth during their camp.
STUDENTS laced up their runners and hit the river tracks for their annual whole school cross country event.
Students from all year levels tackled varying distances suited to their age groups.
The event wasn’t just about speed - it was a celebration of perseverance - with many students digging deep to cross the finish line.
Teachers and families praised the determination and resilience on display, as every participant gave their best.
It was a fantastic day of fitness, fun and community spirit for the school.
STARTING LINE: Year 1/2 students prepare to race in the Wangaratta Primary School cross country event.
STUDENTS have been enjoying cooking class. Aviana Panozzo and Mason Webbers were in charge of creating a dessert for the meal, which was a delicious, dark chocolate sour cream cake.
CHOP CHOP: Carra students Aviana Panozzo and Mason Webbers prepare the chocolate for their dessert cake during cooking class.
TOP EFFORT: Appin Park year 4 student Ella Fraser looked comfortable as she passed the halfway mark of her 2km event in the cross country.
UNDER perfect weather conditions, all students flocked onto the walking tracks behind the school in readiness for their respective cross country events. Supported by many families and friends who encouraged them along, the students ran either 1, 2 or 3km, before enjoying the obligatory oranges wedges and then a sausage sizzle for lunch. Many of the older students set the scene by challenging themselves to complete the longer distance.
As they set off, the younger students were ‘champing at the bit’ to complete their 1km, but they had to wait until the 2km runners were sent on their way. Running across the suspension bridge added to the running task. With all students on the track at the one time, the cheering from each other and the smiles on their faces was evidence of the positive connection throughout the school community, and that one of the key values of being kind is a noticeable positive attitude.
STUDENTS have recently been enjoying visits to Mullinmur Billabong as part of their outdoor education program.
There have been plenty of environmental inspections where students have reported back on their discovery of yabbies and a host of native fish.
With the low water levels, it has been a great chance to identify all the local animal tracks left in the mud too.
SCIENCE STUDY: Yarrunga Primary School student Harper Fenlon takes a close look at a yabby found at Mullinmur Billabong.
4
THE St Patrick’s Hall Indoor Market will be held in the Ford Street hall on Saturday, 31 May from 9am to 1pm.
It will feature 24 stallholders offering a wide range of goods, and a glimpse of what will be available can be seen on the Market in the Hall Facebook page.
Browse the stalls and enjoy a free cuppa in the Sip & Chat corner, with future markets planned for 6 September and 6 December.
AN exhibition called Inside Outside featuring the work of artists Janet Campbell and Helen Hill is open at the Art Gallery on Ovens in the laneway off Murphy Street in Wangaratta.
The exhibition features landscapes inspired by the natural environment of the Grampians and Winton in outback Queensland by Helen Hill, and paintings including still life works celebrating everyday items from the home and garden by Janet Campbell.
Inside Outside is open Friday and Monday from 10am to 4pm and on Saturday and Sunday from 10am to 2pm and entry is free.
THE Wangaratta Contemporary Textile Award 2025 exhibition is open at the Wangaratta Art Gallery.
With the significant investment of project partners, the Kyamba Foundation, prize money now stands at $40,000, representing the richest textile prize in Australia.
The 2025 finalists, selected from over 430 entries Australia-wide, are contemporary artists who not only demonstrate a mastery of technique in a broad textile medium, but innovation and excellence alongside a rigorous and robust conceptual practice.
See the work of the 10 finalists including Helvi Apted, Elisa Jane Carmichael, Hannah Cooper, Charlotte Haywood, Cara Johnson, Charles Levi, Emily Simek, Jacqueline Stojanovic, Sera Waters andaward winner Jemima Wyman, on display until 17 August.
WANGARATTA is gearing up for a day of adventure with the All Outdoor Expo on this Sunday from 10am to 2pm.
Held at the Wangaratta Turf Club, the expo with free entry will showcase a diverse range of indoor and outdoor stalls.
Attendees can browse through displays of four-wheel-drive vehicles, camping gear, bicycles, shing and hunting equipment, specialty goods, energy providers, and more.
Whether it’s upgrading camping equipment or planning a cycling adventure, the expo
caters to a variety of interests.
A series of informative presentations will also be featured.
Better Boating Victoria, Paul Boags Outdoors, and Robbie Alexander will share their expertise on fishing and outdoor pursuits.
Younger attendees can enjoy a jumping castle and face-painting.
Refreshments will be available throughout the day.
Rural City of Wangaratta Mayor, Irene Grant, expressed council’s support for the event.
“Council is committed to
BRUCE Poulter has been performing in Victoria for decades.
He first started out with his solo career in the early 80s; he always loved to sing and taught himself how after venturing away from the keyboard.
Bruce continued to entertain as a soloist on the local circuit, with his easy listening style of music that contained catchy dance rhythms as well as great classic country rock songs.
This music opened many doors, and he became a regular at many of the local clubs and hotels in the area, never failing to entertain the patrons.
In 2002, Bruce teamed up with David Turk, lead guitarist and vocalist, and the went on to perform as the successful duo,
THE 2025 Across the Arts Festival retrospective exhibition is being held in the Bainz Gallery at the Wangaratta Library this month. The exhibition features 31 artworks by 18 Goulburn and North East Arts Alliance (GANEAA) members in a wide variety of styles and mediums including ceramics, printmaking, painting, photography and textiles. It includes the finished artwork from the 2021 Mullinmur Billabong Linocut Project, comprised of linocuts made by 13 artists who took part in the collaborative project.
THE Wangaratta community market runs every Sunday (except Easter Sunday) at Moore Than Swimming, located at 11-13 Mason Street in Wangaratta, from 8am until 1pm.
There are a wide range of stalls to browse with new and used items, plants, fruit and veg and more, with refreshments available.
Stalls are available for just $20 each (no bookings required) and car boot sales are welcome for $15, with more information via the market’s Facebook page or call Sheree on 0401 665 886.
supporting local businesses with events that promote outdoor activities, bring people together, and enhance the quality of life for all residents,” she said.
A full list of stallholders can be found on the Wangaratta council website.
Speaker times are: 10:30am to 11:15am - Chris Padovani (Better Boating Victoria & Victorian Fisheries); 11:30am to 12:15pmPaul Boags (Paul Boags Outdoors); and 12:30pm to 1:15pm - Robbie Alexander (Robbie Fishing).
The turf club is located at 20-32 Racecourse Road, Wangaratta.
One Eyed Jacks.
One Eyed Jacks played a significant role in Bruce becoming an entertainer, as it enabled him to venture into different genres of music, rounding out his repertoire of songs to include some great rock classics.
Bruce is now once again a solo performer and presents a varied, easy listening style, singing songs and playing the guitar to the music that he grew up with.
He has a variety of music to present, from the 60s through to some more current tunes.
His music is now influenced by Creedence Clearwater Revival and later John Fogarty, the Beatles and Australia’s Paul Kelly, plus all that great music he grew up with.
In 2015, Bruce took the
TAKE a trip down memory lane each weekend by visiting the Wangaratta Historical Society and Museum in the old fire station in Ford Street. The museum is open every Saturday and Sunday from 10am to 1pm and entry is free, with exhibitions updated regularly.
For more information email wangarattahistorialsociety@ gmail.com or drop in and have a chat.
opportunity to travel throughout Australia over four months.
He took his guitar and performed at Alice Springs, Tennant Creek, Kakadu, Kununurra, Broome, Coral Bay and Kalbarri to name a few.
With all the experience and knowledge Bruce has gained over the years, you can be guaranteed professional performances complete with sequenced backing, providing a full-band sound using well-maintained and reliable equipment.
Bruce will be performing at Da Vinci Social Club this Sunday, 1 June.
Tickets are $20 members and $25 non-members.
Doors open at 1pm.
To book please call 0409307606.
By ANITA MCPHERSON
FINALISTS in the Wangaratta Contemporary Textile Award 2025 were among an enthusiastic audience who gathered for the o cial announcement and opening at the Wangaratta Art Gallery on Saturday.
More than 100 guests attended the special event including seven of the 10 nalists, who had travelled from Sydney, Adelaide, Melbourne and regional centres for the occasion.
Welcomed by Rural City of Wangaratta Mayor Irene Grant and award project partners the Kyamba Foundation, those in attendance had the opportunity to take in the awe-inspiring array of textile artworks now installed in Gallery 1, before the winner was revealed.
The Amery family were rst to announce the Highly Commended Ruth Amery Award of $2,500, which went to Elisa Jane Carmichael for her work Mirrigimpa, 2024.
Then guest judge, Murray Art Museum Albury CEO Dr Blair French, revealed Jemima Wyman was the recipient of this year’s $40,000 Wangaratta Contemporary Textile Award, for her work, Haze 19, 2024.
Foundation’s Alison
director Rachel Arndt.
The work, a custom-printed Chi on curtain spanning over 6 metres in length, forms part of a series of ‘Haze’ curtains which, according to the artist, function as ideological textiles - a term used by Wyman for textiles that carry political ideas in their bres, like soviet era propaganda textiles, war rugs, military camou-
age and protest attire.
Dr French described Haze 19 as “simultaneously seductive and subversive” and “a standout work within an exhibition of outstanding contemporary textile art.”
He said the Wangaratta Contemporary Textile Award 2025 exhibition features ten substantial works created by artists at di erent career
stages engaging with a wide range of processes.
“It makes for a rich and deeply thought-provoking viewing experience and highlights how textile practices o er contemporary artists unique means to hinge together material making and conceptual speculation, personal and collective experience, human touch and technological
production,” he said.
Wangaratta Art Gallery director Rachel Arndt said the atmosphere at the event was extraordinary, particularly when guests realised the catering responded to the artists’ works in technique, method, ingredient and colour palette.
A Battenburg-style cake was served, which responded to Jacqueline Stojanovic’s
WINNING WORK: Jemima Wyman, Haze 19, 2024, winner of the Wangaratta Contemporary Textile Award 2025, installation view Wangaratta Art Gallery. PHOTO: Jeremy Weihrauch
CATERING
SURPRISE: A Battenburg-style cake was served at the o icial opening and announcement of the Wangaratta Contemporary Textile Award 2025, which responded to Jacqueline Stojanovic’s textile weaving, Adria.
textile weaving, Adria. Wangaratta Art Gallery Friends president Deb Kemp rounded out the speeches on the day with an anecdote about Corowa silk which was enjoyed by all.
The Wangaratta Contemporary Textile Award 2025 exhibition, featuring the entries of all 10 nalists, is open to the public until 17 August.
• Weekly 30-minute lesson (during school terms).
• FREE year round pool access!
• FREE entry for one supervising adult.
• Class availability 7 days a week.
&
By IAN DAVIDSON and CHRIS TZAROS
OF all the local bush birds here in the North East, the Golden Whistler must surely be in the line-up as one of our finest songsters.
Though they are most vocal in spring at the onset of breeding, with males singing for prospective mates and to establish a breeding territory, we are still hearing Golden Whistlers in the bush now.
However, their autumn and winter calls are merely contact calls which are a much weaker version of only a small part of their breeding song.
When they get into full swing, their song is a melodious sequence of strident whistles, given persistently and purposefully, often while the bird is perched in a dense wattle or among the foliage of a eucalypt.
Male Golden Whistlers are visually striking birds.
They have a bold black hood and a crisp white throat, bright yellow chest and collar, and olive green back.
Females are much plainer in colour, generally being pale grey with paler tinges of white on their throat and sometimes with a hint of yellow around the abdomen.
Young males in their first year typically resemble females, though they have distinctive rusty coloured panels in their wings.
Golden Whistlers occur in a range of different habitat types, though they do tend to prefer more forested environments, typically only venturing into open woodland
country when on migration.
At this time of year, birds are widely dispersing out of the higher mountainous regions into the relatively milder lowlands, and it is clear from their movements that they use vegetated corridors including treed rivers and creeks, roadsides, and remnant bush among farmland.
They are commonly seen and heard in patches of revegetation, especially where there are dense thickets of wattles and eucalypt saplings, which afford the birds good cover from aggressive species such as Noisy Miners.
They also feed on insects within this vegetation, procuring their food mainly from leaves and small branches.
They spend a lot of time quietly searching for prey, sitting motionless and scanning nearby foliage for a potential meal, before hopping along a branch or hovering to snatch their food.
Locally, Golden Whistlers can be seen in any of our larger bushland areas, such as the Warby Ranges, and along the Ovens and King Rivers, especially where there is good understorey of Silver Wattle.
Kaluna Park and Northern Beaches are two places worth a look.
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THE inclusive and welcoming environment The Wangaratta Players Inc o ers to those interested in being involved in amateur theatre, was recognised at the 5th Annual Amateur Performance Theatre (APT) Awards Border Region announced on Friday, 23 May at the Thurgoona Country Club Resort.
The Players were the winner of the Kylie Wilson Company Award, an annual award presented to the ensemble who “displays unwavering commitment to making theatre inclusive, ensuring that everyone regardless of background ability or experience - has a place on and o the stage”.
The award was established in honour of inaugural APT Awards member Kylie Wilson, a Wangaratta resident and enthusiastic supporter of local theatre, who passed away in 2020.
Wangaratta Players’ Bec Carta also picked up a prestigious award on Friday night, announced the winner of Best Performer in a Play for her role as Dr Watson in Ken Ludwig’s Baskerville: A Sherlock Holmes Mystery - her rst major role with the Players. Bec said she and partner
BY ANITA McPHERSON amcpherson@ nemedia.com.au
Heather had a fabulous time at the awards, enjoying the company of their Wangaratta Players family.
“It was a bit unbelievable in the moment when they announced my name - I was so surprised,” she said.
“Receiving the recognition from the APT adjudicators was amazing - only topped by having so many beautiful people congratulating me on the night and over the coming days.
“Theatre people are so supportive.”
Wangaratta Players president Nicky Powell congratulated Bec Carta on her achievement, and said it was a thrill for the Players to have received multiple nominations in a wide variety of categories.
“It is just gratifying to know people appreciate what we are doing,” she said.
“And for us to win the Kylie Wilson Company Award is wonderful, recognising we’re open to as wide a representation of members from the community as possible - including through
Receiving the recognition from the APT adjudicators was amazing... - Bec Carta
our youth group - and for providing arts to the Wangaratta community as a whole.
“That award means the most to me - it’s something I believe we do really well - and as someone who knew Kylie, it’s close to my heart.
“To be identi ed in the North East among other community groups for the work that we do - being open to all - is really lovely.”
The Wangaratta Players next production will be the Neil Simon play Rumours, a riotous comedy by the renowned playwright, currently in the nal stages of rehearsal.
It opens on Friday, 27 June and runs until Sunday, 6 July at the Stage Door in Evans Street, Wangaratta and tickets are on sale now at trybooking.com/CZDWH.
By SIMONE KERWIN
MORE than 70 people took advantage of the opportunity to watch free live sessions from the Sydney Writers’ Festival at the Wangaratta Library last week.
Part of the Live & Local program, which the library accessed for the rst time last year, the 12 sessions offered between Thursday and Saturday covered a wide range of literary styles and concepts.
They were lapped up by those who attended, with sessions featuring Helen Garner, AC Grayling, and the Moriarty sisters - Liane, Nicola and Jaclyn - proving most popular.
Wangaratta Library coordinator Loueen Twyford said all feedback received from patrons about the Sydney
Writers’ Festival program had been positive, though many were surprised more people hadn’t attended.
“For library sta , it didn’t matter if only one or two people attended some of the sessions, as our aim was to o er a program to encourage thought, re ection, conversation, and to assist people in feeling connected to wider national events,” she said.
Ms Twyford said the library would look to be part of the Live & Local program again next year, and was always looking at options provided by other literary festivals.
“Our digital providers o en have special online sessions that we promote, such as author talks o ered through BorrowBox, and we will look at options to screen these in the library if the timing is suitable,” she said.
By RUSSELL SULLY and TONY LANE for WANGARATTA LANDCARE and SUSTAINABILITY
SOME 40 Wangaratta Landcare and Sustainability members recently took a bus trip to the global award-winning Bullanginya Lagoon at Barooga to enjoy the spotlighting and artistic storytelling of the Bangerang peoples dreaming.
RECREATIONAL shers are being encouraged to get into the great outdoors during winter and catch a Murray spiny freshwater craysh when the three-month season opens this Sunday, 1 June.
Victorian Fisheries Authority (VFA) chief executive o cer Travis Dowling said the prized freshwater species could be caught in northern and North East Victoria and were great fun for shers of all ages and experience levels.
“One great thing about catching crays is you don’t need heaps of gear – a piece of steak on a length of string or a labelled hoop net will do the job,” he said.
“Many families have great memories of winter weekends catching crays, which are perfect to enjoy around the camp re with loved ones or can be released to stay at liberty.
“It’s important to know how to measure crays correctly, from just behind the eye socket to the rear of the carapace, which is the main body shell.
“The legal size range of 10-12 centimetres helps keep large, breeding fe-
males in the system to produce offspring for years to come.”
In good news for the treasured native species, a study funded by recreational shing licence fees has found wild populations across 17 sites in North East Victoria remain in strong shape.
Researchers from the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action’s Arthur Rylah Institute (ARI) and Nature Glenelg Trust
surveyed the locations using hoop nets and found only minor changes from a similar study undertaken in 2016.
VFA recreational sheries manager Dr Taylor Hunt said the assessment compared the abundance, size and sex ratio of freshwater crays caught in the two surveys and showed their numbers remaining steady, with very little to no change in the Ovens, Kiewa and Mitta Mitta rivers.
“This is good news and suggests our existing shing rules are balancing shing opportunities for recreational anglers with the right level of protection for a really important native species,” he said.
“We’re also working with ARI to produce Murray spiny freshwater craylings at our Snobs Creek conservation hatchery, which will further bolster numbers in these spots and more.”
Key rules for Murray spiny freshwater cray sh include the 10-12cm ‘slot limit’, a daily bag limit of two crays and state-wide possession limit of four per person at any one time.
For more information, grab a free Recreational Fishing Guide from a tackle store, download the free VicFishing app or head to www.vfa.vic.gov.au/fishingguide.
Earlier this year, Bullanginya Dreaming took out top honours at the 2024 ‘Blooloop Innovation Awards’, winning the storytelling category ahead of giants like Disneyland and Merlin Entertainment.
It was an amazing display of the region’s Indigenous history and culture.
The laser light show blended the Bangerang peoples’ insights, knowledge and cultural experience with nature and the environmental elements into a powerful cultural experience.
Through a collaboration with artistic laser lights and Bangerang creative powers, the installations conveyed a very powerful three-dimensional visit into the history and culture of the people of the tall trees.
Walking the night-time track through 12 installation, we learned about flora, fauna, waterways, cosmos and the chaos brought about by the ever-changing seasons of the natural environment.
It helped us understand why “Country” and “caring for Country” is embedded into the culture and patterns of First Nations people.
Local First Nations Elder Uncle Dozer featured heavily in the sounds and light show, sharing his knowledge of his culture.
For further information: bullanginyadreaming.com.au
TUCKED behind a charming red brick façade, this character-filled residence seamlessly blends timeless elegance with modern convenience.
Boasting original ornate ceilings and two spacious living areas, the home invites comfort and style from the moment you step inside.
Two generous bedrooms include a main suite complete with its own private ensuite, offering a peaceful retreat at the end of the day.
The galley-style kitchen is both functional and stylish, flowing effortlessly into neatly updated interiors that retain the home’s classic appeal.
A separate self-contained granny flat, complete with its own toilet, basin, and split system heating and cooling, offers flexibility for visiting guests, a creative studio, or extended family living.
Set on a generous 766m² approx. allotment, the landscaped, low-maintenance yard is complemented by a
double carport and a three-car garage, ensuring ample room for vehicles, storage, or workshop needs.
Ideally positioned within easy reach of the city centre, walking tracks, local shops, and schools, this home presents an excellent opportunity for buyers seeking space, character, and lifestyle convenience.
Whether you’re looking to upsize, invest, or settle into a home with heart, this property ticks all the right boxes.
| $660,000 Land | 766m2 approx. Location | 45 Murdoch Road, Wangaratta
IN
This charming four bedroom residence is a celebration of rural living, thoughtfully renovated for modern comfort while embracing its picturesque surroundings.
The spacious open-plan layout offers a perfect flow for family life and entertaining, anchored by a stylish, modern tiled bathroom and the cosy appeal of both reverse cycle heating and a wood combustion heater.
Step outside to a paved alfresco area that captures the sweeping beauty of rolling hills and lush vineyards - a view that truly feeds the soul.
For those with a passion for the outdoors or small-scale farming, the property offers excellent shedding, including a substantial open machinery shed and a brand-new secure structure.
It’s not just a home - it’s a gateway to the good life in King Valley.
With 55,000 litres of water storage and a well in place, it’s as practical as it is peaceful. Whether you’re seeking a full-time family haven or a weekend escape from the city bustle, this property is a rare opportunity to embrace the best of rural Victoria.
•
4 Roger Street, WANGARATTA
Price on Application
Timeless appeal. A central classic.
• Sought after location. Close to CBD / Merriwa Park.
• Four large bedrooms. High ceilings.
• Red brick with traditional front verandah.
• Formal dining room. Large living area.
• Enormous potential. Good condition for age. Established trees/garden. Rear lane access. Available for private inspection. Call us for more.
2 Sunset Drive, WANGARATTA
Price on Application
Fully renovated. Move-in ready. New flooring and paintwork.
Excellent kitchen with adjoining alfresco.
Two renovated bathrooms.
Ducted heating and cooling.
West End location with creek outlook.
• Neat, secure yard. Make it yours!
Available for private inspection. Call us for more.
97 Warby Range Road, GLENROWAN
MOTIVATED VENDOR. OFFERS INVITED
6 acres (approx.). 2 titles. Big shed.
Brick-and-slab home. New carpet.
Sits back of the block – away from traffic.
Two titles. Leave as-is or build again. Deep reliable bore. Plenty of rainwater capacity.
• Large shed with office. Outside toilet.
• Close to Glenrowan. Easy commute to Wang. Available for private inspection. Call us for more.
112 Lakeside Drive, CHESNEY VALE
For Sale: $685,000
Modern home with stunning views
3.3 acres (approx.). Winton Wetlands views. Ducted reverse cycle heating/cooling. Open plan kitchen/living/dining. Large main bedroom. Walk-in robe / ensuite. Raw water supply + rainwater.
• 22km to Benalla. 33km to Wangaratta. Available for private inspection. Call us for more.
‘Kinross’-
Tastefully
20 Appin Street, WANGARATTA For Sale: $499,000
Solid brick with space / potential. 3 bedrooms with built in
Wangaratta
Wangaratta 10 Dianella Street
Wangaratta 2 Billabong Drive
Tarrawingee 228 River Road Lifestyle
Myrrhee 1475 Benalla-Whitfield Road
58
Architecturally
Nutrien Harcourts Wangaratta
I STILL remember the launch of the first Hyundai Santa Fe back in 2000, the year that was going to change everything.
After 25 years, this familysized SUV has reached its fifth generation, and has come a long way since those early days.
The first version was okay, the fourth was pretty damn good and this one is something special; the winner of numerous awards and a wagon that boxes way above its weight.
Hyundai describes the boxy newcomer as “open for more”, a rugged yet refined large SUV that seamlessly integrates the demands of family life with the desire for adventure - it’s got something to do with Koreans sleeping in the back?
Santa Fe comes with a five-year/unlimited kilometre warranty, with eight years on the hybrid battery.
Servicing is due every 12 months or 10,000km, and you get roadside assistance for 12 months.
STYLING
Priced from $53,000 (the price has grown with the car), available with petrol and hybrid powertrains in either two- or all-wheel drive.
That gets you the base unnamed version with a 2.5-litre turbocharged four cylinder petrol-engine along with an eight-speed dual clutch style automatic and frontwheel drive.
In case you’re wondering, there isn’t any diesel anymore - the hybrid now fulfils this role and pretty well to a point as we discovered.
Base petrol with all-wheel drive is another $3000 at $56,000, while the base
hybrid with a 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol- engine kicks o at $58,500.
All prices before on-road costs.
Mid-range Elite is priced from $65,000, while our test vehicle, the top of the range seven-seat Calligraphy Hybrid attracts a price tag of $75,000.
But wait there’s more.
It was also decked out in pecan brown Nappa leather ($295) as well as the functional but very stylish oroad XRT Peak Option Pack, which adds $9990 to the price, bringing the estimated driveaway price to $93,575.
NOTE:
The XRT pack adds 17-inch o -road wheels and tyres, mudflaps, o -road suspension, underbody skid plate, black side steps, roof racks, roof platform, bonnet protector and style visors.
It wasn’t that long ago that the first Hyundai cracked the $70,000 mark with the first Genesis sedan.
Creamy white and terracotta orange cost nothing.
Premium paint adds $750; matte takes it to $1000.
Five star safety extends to 10 airbags, head-up display, 360-degree camera and autonomous emergency braking.
The latter is capable of detecting and reacting to vulnerable road users such as pedestrians, cyclists and motorcyclists and operates at speeds from 5-85km/h.
There’s also active cruise control, tra c sign recognition, blind-spot monitoring with active collision avoidance, auto evasive steering assist, lane keeping assist, junction-turning and crossing assist, steering-initiated rear evasive assist and driver attention warnings, Navigation-based smart cruise control recognises
the vehicle ahead using the front-view camera and front radar, and determines the safe speed range for curves ahead using the navigation system.
The petrol-electric powertrain consists of a 1.6-litre four cylinder turbocharged petrol engine and 47.7kW electric motor that draws its power from a 1.49 kWh lithium-ion polymer battery.
Combined output is 172kW of power at 5600 rpm and 367Nm of torque from 10004100 rpm, with a conventional six-speed automatic (not dual clutch) that feeds power to all four wheels as required.
This compares with the previous 2.2-litre turbo-diesel that it replaces which produced 148kW of power at 3800 rpm and 440Nm at 1750 rpm.
DRIVING
Santa Fe is the same width but 45mm longer, with Hyundai graphic elements.
It’s also 60mm higher than before, with a 50mm longer
wheelbase which translates to more legroom.
Getting in for the first time the new model feels spacious.
A large centre console has space for two mobiles to charge side by side simultaneously.
The look and feel is upmarket, unexpectedly more than the badge suggests, but we’re not huge fans of the pecan leather.
It’s a long way back to the two of the seven seats right down the back, with a second row bench that slides and reclines, and one-touch control to access the third row.
Each of the third-row seats also fold and recline.
Hyundai claims 628 litres of cargo capacity with the first two rows of seats in use.
There are four drive modes: Eco, Normal, Sport and My Drive, as well as three multiterrain modes: Snow, Mud and Sand.
The dash from 0-100km/h takes nine and a half seconds and it has a top speed of 190km/h.
Among other things, the XRT pack brings 17-inch
wheels with chunky all-terrain rubber, together with o -road tuned springs and dampers that lift ground clearance by 30mm boost to a handy 210mm.
It also improves approach and departure angles: approach (19 degrees), departure (22 degrees) and breakover (19 degrees).
A hidden handle folds out of the C-pillar, providing improved roof access.
Of course, it poured cats and dogs the day we planned to put the vehicle through its paces on our favourite fire trail.
But it certainly looks the part and a colleague that tried it out on the same trail was impressed with the way the car performed.
It’s more than ready to take on muddy conditions, icy slushy sealed roads and moderately rough dirt tracks - just don’t get too adventurous.
On the downside, a spacesaver spare is provided but does not meet the requirements of o -road driving where a puncture is on the cards.
The hybrid powertrain performs well most of the time, tootling around town, doing the family shop or getting the kids from school.
Under hard acceleration, however, it starts to feel a little underdone.
Initial response is good, but after that it begins to fade, sounding more like the hardworking four cylinder engine that it is - turbocharged or not.
Load it up with kids and a boot full of luggage and the powertrain could really be put under pressure.
Predominantly front-wheel drive, the clever all-wheel drive system is an active system and always sends a percentage of driving force to the rear wheels, rather than
waiting for wheelspin like most systems. There’s a good chance you’re going to want to tow something with your new Santa Fe, so it is important to note that the hybrid is limited to towing a 1650kg braked load.
Steering and handling are surprisingly good, particularly the latter where we would have expected more body roll.
But the busy steering wheel and twist-grip gear selector with its park button on the end will require some mastering.
Mounted below the indicator stalk, they can be confused at times, especially during hurried three-point turns.
With a 67-litre tank, it takes standard 91 unleaded and has claimed fuel consumption of 5.6L/100km.
We were getting 7.8L/100km after about 350km of mixed driving, including dirt and pavement. The 1600km long term average was also 7.8L/100km.
SUMMING UP
The Santa Fe is an impressive car, especially with the XRT kit fitted.
But the price could be a stopper, at more than $90K by the time you put it on the road.
That’s a long way from $36,990 for the top of the range GLS when the Santa Fe was launched here back in 2000 - but it’s a lot more car.
RATINGS:
Looks: 7.5/10
Performance: 7/10
Safety: 8/10
Thirst: 7/10
Practicality: 7.5
Comfort: 8/10
Tech: 8/10
Value: 5/10
Overall: 7.3/10
Want to learn how to use Artificial Intelligence to grow your business? Register for this forum and hear from industry leaders as they explain the opportunities and practical applications for AI in regional Victoria. Wednesday 11 June, 10.30am - 3pm, Wangaratta Performing Arts & Convention Centre. More info & tickets. https://events.humanitix.com/ai-forum-wangarattaleveraging-ai-to-create-and-grow-regional-businesses
Council reminds drivers that the city has transitioned to App-only paid parking in the Wangaratta CBD. EasyPark representatives will be available at the Community Kiosk on Reid St and can help with downloading and using the app. Thursday 29 May & Friday 30 May from 10.00 am – 2.00 pm. For more information https://www.wangaratta.vic.gov.au/Services/ Parking/EasyPark
Synergy Youth Hub is open for 12–17-year-olds on Monday afternoons from 3.30-5.30pm. Hang out or join the activities at 29 Flanagan St, Wangaratta.
A Community Vision captures the community’s aspirations for the next 20 years and helps guide all Council decision-making and planning. Provide feedback on our draft before 13 June via Connect. connect.wangaratta.vic.gov.au/reviewing-ourcommunity-vision, or at one of our upcoming drop-in sessions:
• Monday, 26 May 9 - 10 am | Wangaratta Government Centre, Foyer 1
• Thursday, 29 May 4 – 6 pm | Wangaratta Library, Foyer
You can access the Community Engagement report for the Council Plan and Community Vision, here: https://connect.wangaratta.vic.gov.au/council-plan
Come along to a day of outdoor activities and local trade displays. Explore a wide range of outdoor stalls o ering everything from 4WD vehicles, camping gear, and bicycles to fishing, hunting equipment, and more!
Sunday 1 June, 10:00 am to 2:00 pm. www.wangaratta.vic.gov.au/Community/ Whats-On/All-Outdoor-Expo-2025
The annual Community Grants Program are closing soon! The Program seeks to empower organisations dedicated to making a positive impact within our community. Applications are due by Thursday 5 June. For more information: www.wangaratta.vic.gov.au/CommunityGrants
Council’s firewood depots at Glenrowan and Eldorado are now open to residents of the Rural City of Wangaratta. Those planning to gather firewood need to purchase a permit from the Government Centre or the Glenrowan Post O ce. Permits are not available to purchase from the Eldorado store this year. For more information search Firewood Collection on our website.
www.wangaratta.vic.gov.au/Community/EnvironmentSustainability/Firewood-Collection
Premium o ce spaces available on the ground floor of the Wangaratta Government Centre.
• Prime location with government services
• Two areas available approx. 475m2 and 527m2. Smaller spaces can be accommodated.
• Flexible o ce space options
• O -street parking
Contact Garry Nash & Co. to discuss. www.garrynash.com.au
This year’s Marmungun Rock Ceremony is hosted by the Dirrawarra Indigenous Network and proudly supported by the Rural City of Wangaratta. As part of National Reconciliation Week, Wendy and Peter Lester’s carved handprints will be revealed as the newest additions on the Marmungun Rock. Wendy and Peter received the local 2025 Citizen of the Year Award after being nominated for their extensive community work. Sunday 1 June, 11am, Marmungun Rock in Apex Park, Parfitt Road, Wangaratta
37 Rowan Street, Wangaratta 3677
LACEBY WEST CFA END OF SEASON MEETING AND SECTION 29
To be held at the Laceby West CFA Station on Friday, June 13, 2025.
Section 29 starts at 5pm and The meeting starts at 7pm. All operational and non-operational members are urged to attend. Pizza’s to follow.
Please direct any enquiries to 0413 780 416.
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.
CONCRETING , big or small jobs, paths, driveways, shed slabs, verandahs, 15 years experience. For a free quote phone Trev Anderson on 0422 200 761.
FRANKS DOG
TRAINING, behavioral solutions, quali ed, experienced, a ordable. For more information please ph Frank 0418 314 610
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.
ANTIQUES , retro furniture, tools, shop shelving, dolls houses, bone cutlery set, craft, sewing, plants. Friday, May 30, 12pm-5pm, Saturday, May 31, 9am-3pm, 66 Edwards Street, Wangaratta.
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.
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
FIREWOOD, Mixed bulk loads, mill edgings in length, post and rail fencing and garden sleepers. Ph.0448 933 999.
FREE Range Hens, ISA Brown Pullets, POL, $35 each. Phone Becky or Hugh on 5798 1868.
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.
BRICK veneer house, 3bedroom,plusstudy, modern kitchen and bathroom, split system and wood heating, Milawa area, $450 per week plus bond. Ph 03 5727 3490.
SALAMI pig, heavy berkshire sow, $3kg live weight. Ph 5726 5233.
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
7X5 Box Trailer built in 2018 by Wangaratta Trailer Sellers, must sell, located Wangaratta, $600 nonnegotiable. Ph 0431 072 232.
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.
2017 Ford Transit CamperVan,54,000km, (1KG6TW),$56,000, for more information ring Phil 0418 994 147.
2007 Regal deluxe 28ft caravan, good condition, bathroom, washing machine, solar panels, registered March 2026 and more details, $32,000. Ph 0407 317 372.
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.
2022 15ft Signature Iridium S Offroad Hybrid van, great condition, $49,900, more details on Caravancampersales. com.au. Ph 0418 609 877.
Brown Family Wine Group is one of Australia’s most loved and respected wine companies, built on over 130 years’ experience in quality winemaking, market leading innovation and family values that are at the heart of everything we do.
We are a proud and passionate business, determined to maintain our certi cation as “A Great Place to Work” for the seventh year in a row.
The following opportunities are now available to join our dedicated and hardworking team, based at our Milawa site:
• Casual Packaging Operators
• Casual Pruners (Banksdale Vineyard)
• Cellar Door Shift Leader, Part Time
• Reliability Technician (Maintenance Fitter), Full Time
• Casual Wine & Food Assistant
For further information and to view the full advertisements, please check out our Careers page by scanning this QR Code or contacting (03) 5720 5500.
Family Liaison Officer
Part-Time (0.7 EFT 26.6 hours per week)
Do you want to make a difference in the lives of local families? If so, we want enthusiastic people with a passion for working with families in their home.
You will provide links to high quality community-based services which assist and support vulnerable families with children aged 0-18 years to develop, maintain and strengthen their independence and well-being by improving connections to education, health and other services. You will work collaboratively to provide goal orientated and outcome focused solutions which strengthen families.
To be successful you will have a qualification in social work or a related field, for example a Diploma in Welfare or Community Services and experience in the delivery of support services to vulnerable families within a community setting.
For a confidential discussion on the position, telephone Family Services Team Leader Rebecca Mudd on 0458 001 664.
Download an Employment Information Pack at www.benalla.vic.gov.au or obtain a pack from Human Resources Coordinator Rhonda McDonald, telephone 03 5760 2662.
Applications addressing key selection criteria should reach us by 5pm Tuesday 10 June 2025.
Benalla Rural City Council is an Equal Opportunity Employer and a Child Safe Organisation.
About us
Are you a mechanic who is looking for more purpose in your work?
Do you enjoy having variety in your work and solving problems? Would you like to join a passionate team of people?
Based in Wangaratta, Arboressence is a leading provider of professional arboriculture tree services, environmental land management and expert consultancy, ensuring best value to our clients across Victoria’s north-east and southern NSW.
Our purpose is to contribute to a greener future for communities by creating greater awareness about the value of trees, healthy green spaces and how they enhance people’s lives.
About you
Ideally you will have:
Minimum Cert III Automotive or equivalent
• Minimum 5 years diesel motor mechanic and experience servicing, diagnosing, maintaining and repairing light vehicles, trucks and heavy machinery
• Great communication skills and enjoy working in a team environment
• Excellent organizational and problem-solving skills
Current driver’s license (preferably truck license)
Working with Arboressence
When you work with us you will receive:
• Attractive salary + annual profit share
• Access to training and development that will help you exceed in your role
A highly autonomous team who look a er each other to do what it takes to get the job done
• A professional work environment with high quality tools, equipment and facilities
If you feel this role could be the one for you, send your cover letter detailing a little about you and why you’re the right fit along with your resume to admin@arboressence.com.au or if you would like a confidential conversation to learn more about this opportunity or to obtain a position description, please contact Pete on 0456 521 991.
• Utilise your Corrective Services expertise to support Beechworth Correctional Centre
• Work with a high-performing and passionate team in the Victorian Public Service
• Earn $79,122 - $96,073 plus super Beechworth Correctional Centre is a minimum-security facility with a focus on preparing individuals for release and successful reintegration back into society. When not engaged in work, the men attend rehabilitative programs to address their offending behaviour and engage in education, recreation and community assistance programs.
As an Assessment and Transition Coordinator, you will:
• Deliver prisoner risk and needs assessments, parole application and pre-release services.
• Coordinate applications for parole and contribute to the Case Management Review process.
• Support the delivery of the Corrections Victoria Reintegration Program.
As our ideal candidate, you will possess a demonstrated ability to:
• Understand transition and reintegration issues and the needs of prisoners.
• Administer risk assessment tools.
• Work with individuals and groups who are difficult to engage.
Experience of working within a correctional environment is desirable.
For further information on this position and to submit your application, please visit careers.vic.gov.au
Applications close Monday 9 June 2025
PRIVATE NURSING HOME
Rangeview Private Nursing Home currently has vacancies for ENROLLED NURSES
Aged Care experience required. A variety of shifts available. Email resumes to qualitymanager@meracare.com.au
Engagement & Communications Advisor
Beechworth Permanent Full-time
$87,358 - $95,412
Youth & Childrens Librarian
Libraries and Outreach services across Indigo Shire
Permanent Part-time 32 hours per week
$35.04 - $36.79 per hour
Customer Experience Officer
Customer Service Hubs across Indigo Shire
Casual
$32.76 - $34.79 per hour + 25% casual loading
Applications close 5pm Sunday 15 June 2025. Visit https://www.indigoshire.vic.gov.au/AboutCouncil/Careers-and-volunteering to download the position recruitment kit, and to view instructions on how to apply.
www.indigoshire.vic.gov.au
& REMEDIAL MASSAGE (Subcontractor)
We’re a vibrant, multidisciplinary health and wellness clinic looking for a passionate Myotherapist and/or Remedial Massage Therapist to join our growing team.
Enjoy the benefits of:
Competitive rates
• Established and loyal client base
• Flexible hours to suit your lifestyle
• Fully equipped treatment rooms with electric li tables
• Linen and treatment consumables provided
• Full admin support including online booking services
• We value professionalism and collaboration in our ever-evolving clinic environment Requirements:
• Relevant qualifications
• embership with a recognised professional association
If you’re ready to thrive in a supportive and engaging space, we’d love to hear from you!
Email admin@motionhealthcollective.com.au or call Brenton 0413 717 438
PRIVATE NURSING HOME
Rangeview Private Nursing Home currently has vacancies for REGISTERED NURSES
Aged Care experience required. A variety of shifts available. Email resumes to qualitymanager@meracare.com.au
CLARK, Colleen Marea. 21/11/1929 – 25/5/2025
Loving wife and mother.
Beechworth Graveside service TODAY at 1pm.
Please see North East Funerals website for funeral service details.
BAILLIE, Jesse Liam.
REICH, Mandy.
A sincere thank you to all our dear family and friends who came to Mandy’s funeral. Thank you to all your beautiful words of support, owers and cards that we have received. Your love has been overwhelming. We are so thankful we could celebrate Mandy’s life with you all and appreciate all those who travelled to share in the day.
HUDSON, Ken.
Always in our hearts.
Love to the Hudson family. Our thoughts are with you all.
~ The Finlayson family.
KEIR, Allison.
Passed away peacefully at Blackwood Cottage, Beechworth Health on Friday, May 16, 2025. Aged 79 years.
Beloved partner of Gary Dean. Loved mother and mother-in-law of Dean and Kerry and mother of Murray (dec).
Treasured grandmother of Malcolm, Holly and Jesse. Adored sister of Janet. Aunty to Anna and Erin. ‘Forever in our hearts, will be sadly missed.
ZEINSTRA (nee Van Der Werf), Johanna “Jo” Catherina. 6/12/1931 – 27/5/2025
Loving wife of Henk for 72 years.
Loving mother and mother-in-law of Frank and Liz, Barbara, Marianne, Fred and Christine, Terry and Jenny. Proud Oma of 9 grandchildren and Groot Oma of 8.
A funeral service to celebrate the life of Jesse Baillie will be held Monday, June 2, 2025 at North East Funerals - Bell Room, 184 Great Road, Wangaratta, commencing at 11am. Guests are encouraged to arrive at 10.30am to sign Jesse’s memorial and say their nal goodbyes to Jesse.
Jesse’s service can be viewed via live stream at www.northeastfunerals.com.au/livestream.
The funeral service to celebrate the life of Allison Keir will be held at the N J Todd Funeral Home – ‘Feehan Chapel’, 81 Baddaginnie Benalla Road, Benalla on Wednesday, June 4, 2025 commencing at 1pm. Private family burial. Livestream of the service will be available, please go to the N J Todd website and follow the livestream link.
N.J. TODD
BENALLA (03) 5762 2461 EUROA 1800 352 425
McCARTHY, Theodora “Thea”.
A memorial service celebrating Thea’s life will be held at North East Funerals, 184 Greta Road, Wangaratta, Victoria on Thursday, June 5, 2025 commencing at 1pm.
~ Blessings Manfred, Simon, Henry and Wendy Reich.
DYER, Bert “Skipper”. May 29. Thinking of you this special day. Happy Birthday. Bert friend and husband. Eager to help. Riding your bike. True Blue Aussie. Hi Golden Hawk. Love to Lynette, Rae and Brenda RIP. Forever in our thoughts.
~ Love Margaret; David, Jan and all the family.
A funeral service to honour the life of Johanna (Jo) will be held at Our Lady’s Catholic Church, corner White Street and Murdoch Road, Wangaratta commencing at 11.30am on Friday, June 6, 2025 followed by interment at the Wangaratta Lawn Cemetery.
Jo’s service can be viewed via live stream at northeastfunerals.com.au/live-stream
WANGARATTA Chronicle photographer Melissa Beattie made her way down to Wangaratta Junior Football League on Saturday to capture some action. Photographs can be purchased at the Chronicle.
Black played Porepunkah Panthers in all grades of North East Baseball at Targoora Park on Sunday.
The juniors were rst on the diamond, in the under 12s Panthers had 15 players turn up for the game which is great for baseball.
They batted through the seventh batter to lose only one out and bring in six runs in their rst at bat, while Rangers were slow to start and did not get any runs in their rst turn at bat.
Both teams batted well for the rest of the game with Panthers using all their players and only the slow start by Rangers gave Panthers the lead and the win - Panthers 25 to Rangers 18.
The under 15s game, Rangers Black held Panthers to just one run in the rst innings while they brought in six runs themselves to have a good lead to start.
Panthers added another three runs in their second turn at bat, but Blacks were playing a better game scoring another ve runs in the second innings and ran out winning 17 runs to Panthers’ four when time and game was called.
In the C grade game, Panthers brought in one run in their rst inning but le two runners on base when they lost their third out.
Rangers scored three runs in their turn at bat and the Panthers’ rst four batters were all brought home before they lost their rst out then added another three before they were side away.
Rangers scored seven in their turn at bat to hold a one run lead at the start of the third.
Panthers’ rst two batters were both put out before they reached rst base but they brought in one run be-
fore they lost their third out to even the score, with Rangers yet to bat.
Rangers batted through their line-up to lose one out and have another seven runners home before time and game was called.
Rangers won 17 runs against the Panthers 10.
In the B grade game, it was not until their h turn at bat that Panthers got their rst batter on rst base safely.
Although Rangers Black were not doing much better, they had scored six runs in their rst three innings to lead six runs to nil at the top of the h innings.
With two batters out, Panthers started to bat safely and scored three runs in h before they lost their third out.
Rangers Black added two more runs in their turn at bat, then Panthers scored two in their last bat.
Rangers did not have to bat and won eight runs to Panthers ve.
In the A game that followed, the Panthers’ woes continued although they scored three runs in their rst turn at bat, and it was to be the only innings that they scored in.
elding error saw those two runners come home before the third out was made and still holding a two-run lead.
Rangers Black did not have it all their own way, scoring just one run in their rst innings, shut down in the second, scored another four in the third, only one in the h and three more in the last to win by six runs in the nish in a good, tight elders game.
Across the Murray River, up in Lavington, Wangaratta Rangers Orange played Albury Bears at Springdale Heights in their A, B and two juniors’ teams of baseball.
Although Bears brought in a lot more runs than Rangers in the under 12s game - it was their batting that was the difference.
All the Bears’ players had
three safe hits for the game while most of Rangers’ players only had one and their base running brought in the runs.
Bears won 17 runs to Rangers Orange, ve.
In the under 15s game, the result was much the same as the under 12s.
Most of the Rangers players are only in their second year of baseball and this season, the rst year that they have had to face a pitcher and learn to pitch themselves, but the boys and girls are all enjoying the game and are improving each game.
By PHOEBE MORGAN
WELCOME rain did not deter 13 intrepid table tennis enthusiasts from their weekly gathering at the Oxley Shire Hall last Tuesday evening. Competition at the centre tables saw balls almost continuously ricochet around the hall as players tested out their trick shots.
A match between Manni ‘many-shots’ Poulos, Neil ‘swi -serve’ Spurzon, Graham ‘the grounded’ Stephens and Phoebe ‘the fast-hitting’ Morgan saw projectiles y almost constantly to other
ends of the Hall. Father-daughter team, Adam ‘the alternator’ and Millie ‘battle-bat’ Boskey played against June ‘the judge’ Uebergang and ‘nextlevel’ Neil Brock to a number of contested shots. With odd numbers, new games allowed newcomer Sue ‘sure-footed’ Bull and repeat round-goers Richard ‘the rocket’ Morgan, Martin ‘the maximum’ Butcher, Adrian ‘the batsman’ Brunken and Jason ‘just-over-thenet’ Mullins to alternate time on the sidelines to watch the non-stop games. The evening was complete
as players enjoyed a warm cuppa along with some homemade desserts brought by a number of attendees.
Final games were played with gusto before attendees retired for the night, safely making it to their cars under the dazzling display of lightning clouds overhead, heralding the arrival of a blustery storm later that evening.
Adults and secondary students of all ages and abilities are welcome to join in on the group, which meets at the Oxley Hall every Monday at 7pm, public holidays excluded.
BYO bat, $2 entry and a plate to share.
Mason Jones, in his third game of baseball, was the only player for Rangers that had two safe hits from two at bats.
The B grade game saw neither team score a run in the rst innings.
Rangers Orange scored their rst run when their lead o batter was walked to rst base and was brought home by the batters that followed before they lost their third out.
Bears scored ve runs in their next turn at bat then got Rangers Orange out, three up, three down to hold a ve
runs to one lead at the top of the fourth.
Orange started to hit the ball safely and had two runs in and one on base when Cooper Bennett hit deep right eld for a home run and brought in another two runs for the dig.
Bears added another two run in their turn at bat to lead seven runs to Orange ve at the top of the h innings.
Tony Smith and Steve Peruzzo both hit a two-baser and were brought home by the following batters in the h.
They then had Bears two out and two on base, and a
Orange had another safe hit by Bennett and a big three base hit to right eld by Ryan Brockwell saw Orange add two runs in their turn at bat. They then got Bears out, three up, three down to even the score on nine runs a piece at the start of the seventh dig.
The pressure was on both sides, Orange le a runner on base when they lost their third out, then Bears rst batter got on base from a safe hit, stole second and came home on a elding error by Orange. Their next batter hit a hard ball to short stop with time and game called and Bears had the win, 10 runs to Orange nine.
The win in B grade brought the best out of Bears’ A grade and the loss did nothing for the Rangers’ Orange in their game.
Rangers Orange rst batter got on rst base from a walk, then was brought home by their next three batters before they lost their third out for what was to be their one and only run for the game.
The Bears batted well all game, hitting to the out eld to bring in runners ahead of them.
Tom Simmons was Bears best, he batted 1000 ( ve safe hits from ve at bat, one being a home run), his cousin, Brendon Simmons also hit a home run.
Rangers Orange had no answer to Bears’ batting when they were put out three up, three down in ve of the seven innings played for the game, with Tetsu Kamiyama being their only player to get a safe hit for the game.
Bears won 13 runs to Rangers one.
ROUND ve of the Goulburn Murray Storm Premiership kicked o with a commanding performance from the Knights’ Ladies team, who le no doubt about their dominance with a 46–0 shutout victory over the Bears.
From the rst whistle, the Knights were in control - relentless on both sides of the ball, racking up tries with clinical precision while maintaining a solid defensive line.
Try scorers for the match were: Issy Simmons (1), Nicola Melville (1), Fredericka Allan (2), and Constance Dodd (5).
Successful Conversions were kicked by Constance Dodd (3), and Tiana Stuart (2). It was the Men’s Tackle match that delivered the real drama.
In a nail-biting contest that kept spectators on the edge of their seats until the nal siren, the Wangaratta Knights narrowly defeated the Border Bears 32–30.
WOMEN’S, Tuesday, 20 May
9 Hole Stableford Event
Winners: Glenda Dodson 18 points.
Runner Up: Annie Wilson.
NTP 4th and 9th: Glenda Dodson.
18 Hole Stroke Event
3rd Round Women’s Club Championship
Winner: Karen Smith 69 nett C/B.
Runner Up: Jill Halbwidl 69 nett.
Ball Winners: Janette Collier. Judith Hirschfeld, Jacqui Hoggan, Candice Jones.
NTP 13th: Janette Collier.
Women’s Club Champion: Jan Hill.
Runner Up: Glenda Dodson.
Division 2 Club Champion: Jacqui Hoggan.
Runner Up: Janette Collier.
Division 3 Club Champion: Jill Halbwidl.
Runners Up: Barbara Woodward.
Men’s: Wednesday, 21 May
18 Hole Stroke Event
Winner: Michael Webster 66 nett.
Runner Up: Craig Donoghue 67 nett.
Ball Winners: Daymn Hoffard, Dean Campagna, Luca Campagna, Henry McInnes, Andy Raison, Daniel Bihun. NTP 4th: Luca Campagna. NTP 7th: Ross Anderson. NTP 9th: Chris Oates. NTP 11th: Michael Webster. NTP 16th: Luca Campagna.
9 Hole Stableford Event
Winner: Graham Whitehead 34 points C/B.
Runner Up: Bob Haynes 34 points C/B.
Ball Winners: Peter King
Women’s: Thursday, 22 May
3 Person Ambrose Event
Winner: Helen Tate, Julie McInnes, Jan Hill 65.833 nett.
Runner Up: Glenda Dodson, Janette Collier, Traccey McInnes 67.5. NTP 4th: Sue McCall. NTP 9th: Carolyn Sullivan. NTP 11th: Dawn Fleet. NTP 13th: Jan Hill.
Men’s Competition: Saturday, 24May
18 Hole Men’s Par Event
President’s Gold Cup
A Grade Winner: Cooper Drury +3.
Runner Up: Ian Rundell +2 C/B.
B Grade Winner: Darren Oats +6.
Runner Up: Charles Seager +4 C/B.
Ball Winners: Peter King, John Southwell, Cameron Nottle, Neil McKinnon, Chris Oates, Dan Lacey, Russell Wallace, Ashley Clayton, Drew Winter.
The game was a erce arm wrestle from the outset, with both teams trading tries and momentum swings throughout.
Each side displayed grit, power, and creativity in attack, but it was the Knights who held their nerve in the dying minutes, sealing the win with a gutsy defensive stand as the Bears pushed hard for a late comeback.
Try scorers were: Austin Seri (2), Sailasa Vakarau (2), Semesa Seruvatu (1), and Matthew Flewin (1).
Successful conversions were kicked by: Mathew Flewin (3), and Jacob Roberts (1).
The atmosphere at Glenrowan Recreation Reserve was electric, and this victory solidi es the Knights’ reputation as a force to be reckoned with this season and builds excitement for the rounds ahead.
This Sunday sees the Knights’ Ladies heading o to Mooroopna to play the CSU Mud Dogs, with the men taking a bye for round ve.
NTP 4th: Darren Burns. NTP 7th: Chris Oates. NTP 9th: Jack Dean. NTP 11th: Trevor Cooper. NTP 13th: Darren Kelly. NTP 16th: Julian Bau.
Birdies: Subway - Ben Clarke. KFCCooper Drury, John Southwell.
Secret 6: Chris Oates.
Raffle Winner: Kurt Schubert. Medley Competition: Sunday, 25
May
18 Hole Stableford event
A Grade Winner: Jason Perna 40 points. Runner Up: Samuel Reid 39 points.
B Grade Winner: Jack Dean 41 points. Runner Up: Tim Mortimer 40 points.
Ball Winners: Jake Burns, Kris Allan, Henry McInnes, Bryce Mortimer, Lachy Moore, Paul Judd, Michael Webster.
9 Hole Stableford
Winner: Stephen Beavis 19 points. Runner Up: Nathan Bradley.
JUBILEE GOLF CLUB
THURSDAY, 22 May
Ladies’ 18 Hole Stableford
Winner: Josie Fitzsimons 36
Ball winners: Judy Fogarty (2) 35, Bruna McDonald 35, Liz Collihole 35.
9 Hole Winner Ros White 18.
NTPS: 4th: Jackie O’Brien, 8th: Vicki Moorhead, 13th: Sherie Coghill, 17th: Pauline Mercer.
Saturday, 24 May
Ladies Stroke
Winner Val Ellis C/B +4.
Ball winners Chris Boseley +4, Di Murphy +4.
NTP: 8th: Val Ellis.
Saturday, 24 May
Men’s stroke 4th round and Monthly medal
A Grade Winner Greg Rigoni C/B -2.
Runner up: Steve Fisher -2.
B Grade Winner: Rodney Sebire Medal winner -4. Runner up: Robert Voss +1.
C Grade winner: Doug Ritchens -3.
Runner up: Bill O’Brien -2.
D Grade winner Terry Docherty C/B +2. Runner up: Brendon Essex +2.
Best Scratch: Greg Rigoni 76.
Ball Winners: Andrew Oliver E, Steven Rigoni +1, Ian Dinsdale +2, Darren Jones +2, Jacob Schonafinger +2, Les Naidoo +2, Peter Geldens +2, Tanu Nu’u +3, Glenn Ryan +3, Zac Hedin +3, Charl De Mink +3, Trevor Neppress +3, David O’Connor +3, Alex Jones +4, Daniel McPhee +5, Matt Walker C/B +5.
Eagle on 9: Daniel McPhee. NTPs: 4th: L Naidoo. 8th: D Ritchens. 13th: R Voss. 17th: B Bruce. Wednesday, 28 May
Men’s 18 Hole Stableford
A Grade winner: Steve Fisher 38.
B Grade winner: Alex Gibbs 33 C/B.
C Grade: Terry Docherty 31.
Ball winners: Ian Dinsdale 36, Stephen McNaughton 34, Jim Moore 33, Andrew Skewes 32, Ian Mills 32, David Richards 31, Neville Hogan 31, Andrew Kelly 31.
NTPs: 4th: Ian Mills. 8th: Ian Dinsdale. 13th: Col Ramsay. 17th: Pat Ernst .
Men’s 9 hole stableford
Winner: Kim Arnold 18.
Ball winners: Peter Walker 17, Michael Tanner 17, Mark Dean 17, Rhys Rigoni C/B 16.NTPs: 4th: B Nolan. 8th: C Norris.
RESULTS Saturday, 24 May.
The members played the final round of the club championships and congratulations to the Tarrawingee Club Champion for the 2025 season in Ken Miller with a total of 254 for the best three rounds.
The runner up was Mark Nolan with a total of 258.
The Handicap Champion for 2025 is Angelo Garraffo. with a nett score of 210. NTP: 4th Angelo Garraffo, there were no other NTPs for the day.
On Sunday, 25 May four members travelled to Bethanga to participate in the NEDGA Sandscrape Championships, a very good day was had by all with Angelo Garraffo being defeated on a countback for the B Grade handicap receiving a trophy for runner up.
Golf to be played on Saturday, 31 May will be announced on the day.
Ladies are definitely welcome to also join the members’ for a day’s golf. It will be an 11.30am roll up for an 12 noon hit off.
New members are always welcome at the Tarrawingee club with first year membership of $100 and very reasonable competition fees
This can be done by contacting a member or phoning 0428 122 590.
RESULTS for Monday, 26 May:
Maureen O’Keefe and Nathan Reynolds d Joan Dyson and Susan Fischer 7/3, Elise Downes and Cheryle
Beckley d Margaret Bennett and Peggy Ritchie 7/2.
Last weekend, North Eastern Croquet Association held their Open Singles Tournament at Benalla Croquet Club with 30 entries from the North East, Goulburn Valley and Bendigo Regions.
Division 1 was won by Des Davis of Wodonga with 9 wins.
Division 2 was won by David Box of Beechworth from Christine Blay of Benalla in a 19 point final and Division 3 was taken out by John Barwood of Beechworth from Loretta Gawne of Mooroopna in a 7/6 playoff.
Play is at 1pm on Monday, Wednesday and Saturday.
Please arrive 15 minutes earlier to allow for a draw to be undertaken.
The club is located at 46 Ryan Avenue, Wangaratta.
For further information please contact president Susan Fischer on 0417 217 009, or secretary Terry Wilson on 0417 326 739.
WARBY RANGE BUSHWALKERS
SUNDAY, 25 May. Lake William Hovell to Top Crossing Hut.
A group of eight eminent walkers met in Wangaratta to undertake what I believe is a new walk for the club to Top Crossing Hut.
The make-up of walkers for today was rather special with an equal number of men and women involved.
Club folklore was established on Sunday, 31 July, 2022, when men outnumbered women on a club walk. Amazing.
The drive to Lake William Hovell started out as a cloudy day with a temperature of 15 degrees with little chance of rain.
Our beginning elevation at Evans Creek was about 430m and we would encounter three water crossings on our hike.
This first one was easily navigated via a series of stepping stones without necessitating a change of footwear.
It was only about 30 minutes before we took the opportunity to have morning tea at a car park area adjacent to the King River.
Less than one kilometre later we passed the river crossing that leads towards Sandy Flat Track.
We were fortunate that this was not one of our King River crossings
because it is deeper and wider than most of the river along this track.
It’s at about the 4.5km mark that the first of our major water crossings required a rethink of footwear.
The two necessary river crossings were within a short distance of each other and so the new footwear remained on until the second was completed.
During the walk a couple of wallabies were spotted retreating into dense bush and brightly coloured Rosellas were in abundance.
Signposted a short distance off the Top Crossing Track is an old mining track constructed in 1897and it runs from Tolmie to Buckland Junction and is some 72km in length.
Jeanette and Anne were keen to explore that short track, but I said no, as afternoon tea at the end of the day was a priority.
A steady climb of almost 100m in elevation over 800 metres in distance and then we were back down to meet the river again at the hut.
Top Crossing Hut is the most meagre and humblest of all huts in the northeast.
That is where we consumed lunch, on the banks of the river.
After a relaxing lunch, it was time for the customary group shot before leaving.
Our return was by the way we had walked out, but in more pleasant sunshine than we had experienced earlier.
This track hugs the King River all the way and when you can’t see the river, you can still hear it cascading.
The 15km walk was completed in about five hours which allowed time for a welcome afternoon tea at the Cheshunt Café.
Coming Events
Sunday, 8 June. Cherry and Canyon Walks, Bright. Erin, 0419 200 998. Two popular easy walks along the Ovens River at Bright.
The walks are approximately 5k each and we will follow the Ovens River on both sides with bridge crossings. Total walking approx 10k.
Wednesday, 11 June. Salisbury Falls, Mount Warby and Wenham’s Camp. Michael, 0447 617 880.
A medium walk of approx 12k in the Warby Ovens NP. Starting at Salisbury Falls, to Mount Warby then Wenham’s Camp, and return.
WANGARATTA Dragons Hockey Club celebrate their 118th birthday this Saturday at their Cathedral College base.
The day is the club’s biggest event of the year and will feature an Under 7s and Under 10s carnival, jumping castle, in atable hockey, bake sale, and a barbecue with everyone invited.
Sunday will see some senior action, with the Division two men, Division three men and Division three women taking to the eld.
Dragons president Daniel Warner said their players are gearing up for an exciting weekend.
“Cathedral College is marking out a second hockey eld on the football oval to accommodate for the event,” he said.
“You won’t want to miss this weekend’s games and birthday celebrations.”
Division three men
On another glorious Saturday a ernoon out at Cathederal College the division three men took on the top of the ladder Magpies.
With many of the team’s players and the playing dads away at the state under 18 championships the full squad wasn’t able to attend.
The club took the opportunity to encourage some of the younger players to step up and test themselves against a strong team.
In the rst quarter the Maggies jumped out of the box scoring quickly and early.
A er the short break the backline was beginning to isolate the dangers players with youngster Atticus Thomson applying youthful tenacity in clearing the ball many times.
A er half-time the backline was still seeing the lions’ share of work with Cameron Gillies and David McIntyre saving the team’s bacon many times.
In the goalie kit coach Michael McMurrie was throwing more moves than a TikTok clip keeping the ball out.
When the ball was cleared into the centre Tim Longman and Hamish Kerr were creating their regular brand of mideld mayhem with the help this week of Thomas Wright.
The team’s experienced players steadied the play in the
last half but with weary legs and a depleted bench opportunities to score were scarce.
A er the nal siren the team was buoyed by the abilities of the young players and the bright future this club has.
The Wangaratta Dragon ladies had a few new entrants to the team with Pip Murray and Caitlyn Barden playing their rst Division 3 games for the season.
The Dragons had a lot of strong attack for much of the game with many penalty cor-
ners and eld shots that just weren’t making it into the goals.
Magpies did an amazing job holding o all shots on goal until the last quarter with Jamie-Lee Sexton sneaking a shot into the net a er a beautiful de ection pass from Kate Riley in a penalty corner.
A tough win for the ladies with the Magpies making them work hard for the points this round.
Wangaratta 1 – Magpies 0 Under 16 girls
The United Wangaratta
and Corowa team, ably led by captain Sophie Shallue, took on the in-form Scots team on a very wet Friday night in Albury.
The game was an even game with both teams creating lots of opportunities to score.
However, Scots were able to capitalise on the scoreboard early on and went on to take the lead going into the nal quarter.
But with some spirited play, strong passing, impeccable defence and relentless attacks on goal, the United
team fought back to demand a ve all draw.
Under 12 girls
The under-12 girls faced o against the top-ranked and formidable Corowa United on Saturday.
Aware that they would encounter tough competition, the girls set their focus on intent and execution of some key skills of the game.
With their usual goalkeeper unavailable, Teale Mo at stepped in for her debut as goalkeeper and made an impressive number of saves.
Corowa dominated most of the attacking play during the rst three quarters, establishing an unbeatable lead on the scoreboard.
However, to the Dragons’ credit, they never gave up and truly excelled in the last quarter.
Each and every player put maximum e ort into the game and all should be so proud of themselves.
Some highlights of the game were Pippa Reilly’s relentless running and hassling while her big sister Amelie Reilly mastered some great tackles, switch of play e ectively through Ava Ryan and Maddy Benton and outstanding defensive e orts from Georgia Sessions, Eliza Taylor and Zara Hamilton. In the end, the Dragons le the eld with smiles on their faces, despite the nal score of 8-0.
Coaches award went to Teale Mo at.
Division 2 xture has been deferred to Wednesday night with a number of players from both teams at the Under 18s state champs.
The Under 16 boys and Under 14 boys also had byes.
By SHANE DOUTHIE
WANGARATTA City Ladies will be looking to bounce back from last weekend’s disappointing loss to Cobram Roar when they travel to Wodonga Diamonds on Sunday.
Devils women’s coach Raul Pahina said his senior side was jumped from the opening siren in that encounter.
“Cobram started the rst half at a very high tempo while we were asleep,” he said.
“They scored in the rst 10 minutes, with us equalising quickly with a penalty from Hannah Swindley.
“But unfortunately Cobram was able to score another two goals before halftime and led us 3-1.
“The second half was better, with Beth Oliver getting on the scoreboard.
“We moved the ball a lot
better and isolated Cobram, but unfortunately it was too late with the nal whistle blowing for a 4-2 loss.”
To compound the loss the Lady Devils lost their captain Clair Christison to a knee injury halfway through the 2nd half and she will be in doubt for this weekend’s clash.
“The last time we played Diamonds it was a great match ending 2-2 and we hope we can improve on that and get a win,” Pahina said.
It appears an even bigger challenge for the senior men’s team with the eighthplaced Devils taking on thirdplaced Wodonga Diamond on their home park at Latrobe.
The sides last met on April 13 when the Diamonds handed out a 9-2 drubbing to the Devils and in the three games since they have scored an astonishing 22 goals.
Senior men’s coach Vitaly Leschen accepted it was a tough task in front of his side but remained positive.
“It’ll be a challenge alright,” he said.
“The last time we played them it was our most disappointing game of the season so far so we’ll be trying to reverse that outcome, whether that’s winning or just being more competitive.
“This is the rst game of the second half of the season so we can get a gauge on whether we have improved or not in the return bouts.
“Hopefully, we have some better results in the second half to start building some momentum for the end of the season.”
In some welcome news, the Devils will be boosted with the return of Justin Cirillo to the side.
By BAILEY ZIMMERMANN
AN Ovens and King Football Netball League club president has aired his disappointment after an on field racial vilification incident was made public during the week.
A Greta footballer was handed down a one game suspension by the O&K and issued a public apology on Tuesday night following an incident in the Blues’ reserves match against Moy-
hu in round four.
The player said he told an opposition player that “he would be back on a plane to where he came from” during the Good Friday clash at the Greta Recreation Reserve.
“I didn’t mean to be hurtful, but I now understand how my words have caused harm,” he said.
“It was disrespectful and went against the values of respect, dignity and inclusion that we aim to uphold.
“I’m committed to learning from this, reflecting on my behaviour and taking steps to be more aware of the impact of my words.”
The O&K also released a statement on behalf of the league and the AFL.
“We would like to reiterate that the OKFNL, along with the AFL, will not accept any form of vilification,” the statement read.
“Football is a game for everyone, and it is up to all of us to create an inclusive
environment and to treat each other with respect.”
Both the league’s and the player’s statements have since been taken down from the O&K’s Facebook page.
Moyhu FNC president Geoff Hogan said the incident was the third case of racial abuse directed at one of the club’s football players in the past 12 months.
“It’s really disappointing from our club perspective in this day and age with all the education courses that
are available and literature that is out there that this is continuing to happen,” he said.
“We have a very diverse playing group... no one needs this.
“It’s certainly affected our players, and you can see it in their demeanour at the club.”
Hogan said the club was pleased to see Greta and the player put their hand up and publicly apologise for the incident.
By GRACE FREDSBERG
THIS Saturday, Bonnie Doon will play host to Bright in what looks like a thrilling round 10 in the O&K A grade netball xture.
It’s the second time the rivals have gone head-to head this season following a stellar performance by both teams in round ve which ended in Bright’s nail-biting one-point win over the reigning premier Bonnie Doon.
Despite the loss for Bonnie Doon, all eyes were on their star shooter Amy Starzer, who netted 52 goals with a 96 per cent accuracy.
Bright has had some smashing results this season following a narrow loss to the top-of-the-rank Demons, and their rst game against Bonnie Doon saw Emily Nightingale score 46 goals for the second week in a row.
With both teams sitting within the top ve, a win for either team would see them on a four-match winning streak.
Bright’s A grade netball coach Ash Grimes said the team’s resilience in round ve was impressive and a good indicator of how they have performed this season.
“We were sort of within two goals of each other the whole game, so it was a really tight game from the rst siren to the last,” Grimes said.
“The thing that impressed me the most [about our team] was the resilience and persistence to play out four quarters of really strong netball, and not let the pressure of such a tight game get to them.”
Given the tightly-contested nature of their rst match against Bonnie Doon, Grimes said a strong start will provide the team with more leverage to claim a comfortable win.
“[We’re] trying to get a few more rst ball intercepts, a few more turnovers just to get us that start we’re a er so [the game’s] not as tight,” Grimes said.
“Our players definitely wanted to go down the official channels to call it out, otherwise the wider community doesn’t know it’s going on,” he said.
“I just really hope that people have learnt enough and can respect all races, nationalities and people with a disability instead of getting victimised and vilified.”
The O&K declined to comment further on the incident.
Are Milawa flag fancies this year?
“But Bonnie Doon’s an incredible side, so we think it’s probably going to play out pretty similar.”
She said the girls have brought a promising start to each game this season and this is something they will continue to build upon.
“Something we focused on this year is having a really strong game plan, so I think we’ve sort of worked over these rst few weeks to learn that game plan and make sure we’re all on the same page,” Grimes said.
“So now it’s just about smoothing out all the wrinkles and making sure we’re happy with what we’re putting out each week.
“But I think if we can go in each week with a strong start and perform the game plan to our best ability, the results will speak for themselves.
With all players expected to show at this Saturday’s game, Bright’s goal shooter Emily Nightingale is sure to make her presence known, sitting at the top of the A grade scoring ladder.
“She’s not a tall six-foot goal shooter like a lot of the other teams have, she’s quick and she’s got really smart play – she’s very accurate with the ball in hand,” Grimes said.
In addition to a stellar shooter, Grimes said Bright’s defensive unit will shine at Saturday’s game.
“Through our midcourt, we’ve got our captain Ash Farmer in wing defence, so I think if we’re going to try and turn that ball over, she’s sort of the one to be watching for.
“She’s got such great closing speed and something we really worked on with her is her control – not to over-
run it – and she’s doing that really well.
“If she has a good game, it will be a good day out for Bright.
Grimes also said Amber Quirk in goal defence is “coming o a couple of really good rounds leading up to this match”.
“I think her ability to hunt and her smartness in that goal defence position is one to watch for sure,” she said.
In other games this week, it’s Blacks vs Dogs at Friendlies Oval, while Greta will contest against the Demons with optimism following their win against the Hawks last Saturday.
King Valley will contest against Goorambat, and Moyhu travels to Whorouly to play the Lions.
Let’s find out
■ From back page
“I think Aaron and Kearns are averaging around five goals a game from our midfield which has been a massive improvement from where we have been with our scoring powers in the midfield for the past few years,” he said.
The Blues bounced back from their surprise loss to Bonnie Doon at North Wangaratta last week and welcomed the return to form of spearhead Frazer Judd after a two-week layoff. They are sitting at a deadlock at 6-2 with the Bombers and Goorambat, one game behind Milawa. Graham said his team will quickly find out just how far they’ve come since their home loss to the Blues in round two.
“They press up so well into position, their premiership last year was a sevenyear build, it’s a group that know exactly how each other plays and that’s why they’re never out of a game,” he said.
“It’s something that’s been really hard for us to beat in the last few seasons and we’re looking forward to the challenge.
“For us it’s to find out have we improved, and if so, how much have we improved; we get that test on Saturday.”
The reserves will kick things off on the field of Greta Recreation Reserve from 12pm, with the seniors to follow at 2pm.
Around the grounds, Bonnie Doon will look to keep their run of form going against Bright, Whorouly host Moyhu, Benalla faces Tarrawingee and King Valley comes up against Goorambat.
North Wangaratta has the bye.
JUNE
By SHANE DOUTHIE
ON paper, the clash between top of the table Wangaratta Rovers against ninthplaced Corowa-Rutherglen seems a lop-sided a air. But think again.
The Roos are coached by former Rovers coach Daryn Cresswell and include a host of former Rovers players including Cody Schutt, Finn Osborne, Elijah and Noel Amery, Tyler Roos (son of former Sydney Swans premiership coach Paul Roos) and Ky Williamson.
Wangaratta Rovers director of football Barry Sullivan said there would be no room for complacency.
“Their ranking doesn’t correlate with how well they have been playing this year,” Sullivan said.
“And Daryn will be keen for his side to perform at their best against us and on our home ground.
“He did a lot for us to help
get us to where we are now so it will be a competitiive match no doubt.”
Cresswell’s replacement, Sam Murray, will also be eager to perform at his best, both on and o the eld, against his mentor and the man who played a key role in getting him in the brown and gold as a player and then become a premiership coach.
Both teams should be well rested a er the interleague round last week although each had players in the side that crushed the Goulburn Valley.
“It was a good opportunity for most of the players to freshen up,” Sullivan said.
“Tom Boyd (co-captain) is still a few weeks away but Lockey McCartney (general soreness) should return while Justin Lewis (fractured wrist) is also a chance to play.
“Everything is going along nicely at the club but there is still plenty of motivation to keep winning.
“We all know the competi-
WELCOME BACK: LOCKEY McCARTNEY IS EXPECTED TO RETURN TO THE BROWN AND GOLD THIS WEEKEND. PHOTOS: MELISSA BEATTIE
tion is so close this year and if you don’t put in your best each week, no matter who you play, you will be in trouble.”
The home teams will also be spurred on to perform at their best with a mass of past premiership sides holding their reunions this weekend.
That includes the 1965 and
1975 senior football sides, the 2005 A grade netball team, and the 1985 and 1995 thirds premiership sides.
All past players from those halcyon days are invited to the catch-up with catering upstairs in the clubrooms and a few presentations re ecting on those ag victories.
Celebrations will continue into the evening with a dinner and awards night catered for by Railyard Wangaratta featuring an American BBQ dinner (entry $20 per person).
Everyone is welcome. Wangaratta Magpies travel to Lavington to face the h-
placed Panthers with the aim of keeping their top two position intact.
Lavington have been extremely competitive this season rolling Myrtleford and pushing the likes of Wangaratta Rovers and North Albury so this could well be the match of the round.
By SHANE DOUTHIE
THE interleague round couldn’t have come at a better time for Wangaratta Roivers A grade netball team with the players returing rested and fully charged for their match against top of the table Corowa-Rutherglen.
Hawks coach Gracie Reid said her squad was not intimidated by the task ahead.
“The break has come at a great time in the season with winter rolling in and sickness e ecting some of our players,” Reid said.
“We have used this time to recover and I can already see the team have come back sharper, more focused, and really eager to get back out on court.”
The two sides couldn’t be further apart as far as points go at this stage of the season with the Roos holding 6-0 record and the Hawks the exact opposite but that hasn’t al-
tered Reid’s aims.
“We set ourselves small goals each game to stay focused and on track toward our overall season objective,” she said.
“With such a strong competition this year and so many top-of-the-table teams, it’s important that we stay engaged and intentional in our approach.
“These weekly goals help keep us accountable and ensure we’re continuing to build and improve with every match.”
The side will be without Kara O’Donohue who is unavailable this weekend, but that has opened the door for Hawks young gun Sophia Pasquali (GS/GA) to step up.
“She’s been working hard and this will be a great opportunity for her to show what she can do at the next level,” Reid said.
“Pasquali is also a member of the O&M Interleague team and has earned her
spot through consistent hard work and strong performances.
“She’s a composed, driven player and we’re looking forward to seeing her rise to the occasion.”
Pasquali is not the only young star to impress this season.
“Amelia Sharpe (WD/GD) and Holly McCarthy (C/WA) have been making the trip to Melbourne each Tuesday to compete in the U/19s VNL competition and they will relish goping up against the best in the league,” Reid said.
“The exposure to such a high standard of netball
has been invaluable, and it’s been fantastic to see both players grow and develop as the season progresses.
“I’m always excited to see what kind of performance they’ll deliver come Saturday - they bring intensity, skill, and a strong presence on court.”
“We’ll also welcome Kyia Wohlers (C/WA) up from B Grade this weekend.
“Another exciting young player, Kyia has been outstanding in B Grade this season, and her speed, court smarts, and commitment to the team have truly stood out.
“She thoroughly deserves this opportunity, and we’re con dent she’ll make the most of it.”
The team will also be out to impress the players from the Rovers 2005 A grade premiership team who will be a part of the weekend’s reunions.
“A club isn’t built solely
on who’s playing today - it’s shaped by the history, the lessons, and the support of all who have playd, past, present, and future,” Reid said.
“This Saturday, we proudly welcome back the 2005 premiership players and all past Rovers players to the club.
“It’s always special to see our past legends return, sharing their stories, memories, and wisdom with today’s team.
“These moments remind us all why we play - for the pride, the mateship, and the legacy that lives on through every player who wears the Rovers colour.”
Sixth-placed Wangaratta Magpies travel to Lavington to take on h-placed Lavington needing a win to stay in touch with the top ve.
The Magpies pushed undefeated North Albury all the way in their last match and should be ready for the challenge.
– Build Confidence, Support Your Club
AFL North East Border and AFL Victoria are hosting a free practical training session for current and aspiring club umpires on Wednesday 4th June, 6:00pm–7:30pm at the Wangaratta Showgrounds.
Whether you’re interested in goal, boundary, or field umpiring, this is a great opportunity to learn key skills like positioning and game laws in a hands-on setting. Clubs will receive a $75 incentive per participant, so it’s a win-win for volunteers and local teams.
→ Register via the QR code! Free Club Umpire Session
WANGARATTA ALL GIRLS AUSKICK & SUPERKICK – REGISTER TODAY!
Girls aged 5–12 are invited to join our 5-week Auskick & Superkick program in Wangaratta – perfect for beginners or footy fans looking to build skills and confidence in a fun, inclusive setting.
• 5 weeks of footy fun for just $20 (use code 59EF012D)
• Skill-building, teamwork and new friendships
• Special visit from a Richmond AFLW player during the AFLW Community Camp!
Starts: Wednesday, 28 May
Time: 4:00
celebrate 118 years
Page 35
BACK IN THE GYM HAWKS premiership players Eddie Flynn, Andrew Scott, Ross Gardner, Neville Pollard and Barry Cook dropped in for a quick visit to the Kevin Hill Gym at the Wangaratta Rovers clubrooms. It was a warmup for the club’s multipremiership reunions this weekend.
■ Story page 37.
Milawa can firm their premiership credentials with a win at Greta, or lose their top two spot
A MILAWA team on the rise will face the ultimate test of their premiership credentials against the reigning champions of the O&K in Greta.
The Blues outlasted Milawa by 23 points in their early season clash, but it was the last loss the ‘Dees have had this season.
BY BAILEY ZIMMERMANN bzimmermann@
nemedia.com.au
recent weeks, their resume’ boasts key wins against Bright and Goorambat to have them knocking on rst place prior to the King’s Birthday bye.
Despite injuries to Mick Batey, Josh Owen and Jordan Baker-Swain crippling their key defensive stocks in
Coach Matt Graham said the group has come a long way in a short period of time.
“Some players have really
found their role and position in the team and really bought into it together as a group,” he said.
“There’s still plenty to work on and improve on, but that will be the test for us this weekend.”
A big factor in that improvement has been a mid eld rotation which has quickly become one of the best in the league.
Recruit Aaron Law has added a touch of class
through the middle while Jared Lea has brought the muscle since his move to the mid eld this season.
Reserves best and fairest from last season
Jack Stevenson and new ruckman Henoch Kebede have also been consistent factors in complementing the dominance of Brayden Kearns, Aiden and Dan Bihun with Tyler Dunn and Kyle Collison owning the wings.
Graham said the individual
development of players has taken the team to a new level, while his backline’s “next man up” mentality has been infectious throughout the group.
“Jared [Lea] been exceptional from day one of the 2024 season, we had a chat about a role that was there needing a big body mid elder, and he has grabbed it with both hands,” he said.
“The longer the game goes the better he gets and it’s something that’s really
complimented bringing Aaron Law into the group.
“It seems to be a real mindset of the group, whatever the role is that needs to be played they’re willing to do it for the four points.
“It’s been really nice to see.”
The ‘Dees recruited Law from Melbourne with Joel Radovanovic and Kebede, and according to Graham, the trio have become “part of the furniture” at the club.
■ Continued page 36
