WC300525SamReiher

TODAY

17o

Frost then sunny

16o 17o 18o SAT

SUN

MON

Friday, May 30, 2025

edit.chronicle@nemedia.com.au

wangarattachronicle.com.au

Weekend Edition $2.00 inc GST

BOOKS GALORE 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

Community mourns tragic death of arts advocate Page 2

PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

$45,000 in grants for groups Page 10

D-Day for Demons

Sport

Meters out: apponly paid parking 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 offer 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.

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.

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

RESIDENTIAL

LIFESTYLE

RURAL

COMMERCIAL & INDUSTRIAL

RESIDENTIAL MANAGEMENT

COMMERCIAL MANAGEMENT

CLEARING SALES

BUSINESS BROKERING

23 Baker St, Wangaratta | Ph: (03) 5722 2663 | garrynash.com.au |

Integrity, Experience & Results for over 43 yrs

Page 2 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, May 30, 2025

wangarattachronicle.com.au

Community mourns tragic loss of a passionate arts advocate Family, community members pay tribute to Dianne Mangan, killed in two car collision Saturday

N

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 afternoon when she died in a two-car collision at Everton Upper.

The tragedy has left Di’s family, the Beechworth community, and members of the North East arts scene in mourning for a gifted 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 gift 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 confidence in our ability to make something simple into art.”

Prior to her move to the North East, Di worked as a

and with care - that’s what a true mentor is.

“As an arts leader in the skerwin@ community, she’s left a huge nemedia.com.au legacy, including the Wangagallery assistant in South ratta Contemporary Textile Melbourne, having built on Award - that was her baby. her study of art and design at “She came up with the idea Caulfield Institute of Technolthat Wangaratta’s textile story ogy, and fine art - ceramics at needed to be told by combinRMIT to complete a master’s ing our city’s social history degree of art administration with contemporary textile at CoFA UNSW and enable her arts practice, and it was Di’s move into the gallery sector. initiative to start the award, Proximity to the snow and she had a vision that it was to the chance to pursue a passion be Wangaratta’s point of diffor skiing brought the Manference and what it was to be gans to Wandiligong in the known for.

1980s, where Di set up a studio “She lobbied local governin a former church to work on ment to take the arts seriously, her ceramic art, the beginning and that is why Wangaratta of her contribution to the local can be proud to have an estabarts scene. lished regional art gallery that “One of the things I really collects significant artworks admired was that drive she from across the country. She had to do what needed to be was driven, passionate and done; she was so passionate,” had a vision that she worked to Marcia said. make a reality.”

“She loved her role with the Nina Machielse Hunt, ownWangaratta gallery, and always er/director of the Beechworth wanted to make sure the best Contemporary Art Space exhibitions could be shown which exhibits Di’s work, here.” said she met Di on moving to Di continually honed her the region and they quickly own work in ceramics, and became firm friends. also loved painting, explain“She was a genuine and pasing on her website that she sionate advocate for art and believed “with regular work artists; this was reflected in practice, intuition, expression everything she did,” Nina said. and ideas keep flowing”.

“Di was also an outstanding She was well-known locally artist; her celebrated ceramics through the Wangaratta Art works were exquisite - perGallery director role she held fectly-designed and formed, with the Rural City of Wangaporcelain, unique and distincratta from January 1998 to July tive, world class.

2016, and during that time was “She participated in numeralso part of a working group ous important national exhibiTRIBUTES FLOW: Beechworth-based artist and former Wangaratta Art Gallery director which planned for developtions and international design Dianne Mangan is being remembered by the North East community following her passing on ment of the Wangaratta events.

Saturday.

PHOTO: Marc Bongers Performing Arts Centre.

“Artists right across the Her role with council “Di was an impressive crea- region were fortunate to have diverse range of media. ural City of Wangaratta extended to see her become Di’s relentless, passionate and tive thinker who has left an She exhibited her ceramic manager arts culture cultural services manager, professional support. incredibly important legacy works extensively in her early and events Simone which involved overseeing “She advocated for countfor the arts in our region. career, and more recently in Nolan said Di, who was her the performing arts centre, “She had a really critical eye, less emerging artists and a solo and group exhibitions; supervisor when she began library, gallery and events in brought outstanding artists curated numerous exhibiher work is included in the work in the gallery sector in the rural city. to our region through her tions throughout her career, permanent collections of 1998, was “a fantastic mentor, Di ran the Off Centre Gallery Parliament House Canberra, and was dedicated to working time as gallery director and not just for me, but for many and Studio in Milawa from alongside the artists she repre- art business owner.

Sydney’s Powerhouse Mucreatives in the region”.

2016 to ‘21, a project which was seum, Launceston’s Queen “Her legacy remains in the “Over her 18-and-a-half years sented and presenting them to interrupted by the COVID-19 incredible ceramic pieces a greater audience.

Victoria Museum and Art in Wangaratta, she achieved a pandemic but helped showshe created and in the tex“Di was a dear friend and Gallery, and other public and great deal; she was an advocate, case a stable of North East and private collections in Australia a lobbyist, and an artist in her tiles award she instigated at the greatest critic, who proAustralian artists working in a and abroad. the Wangaratta Art Gallery.” vided feedback ever so gently own right,” she said.

BY SIMONE KERWIN

R

f

yo

u r l o c a l co

m

S

SAUM VEMER R

6.00 12 MONTH FIXED TERM CONDITIONS APPLY.

%

y

A SUNNY

unit

A par

m

to

YOUR LOCAL

RADIO STATION

livestreaming

www.oakfm.com.au

Since 1990

LIVE & LOCAL BROADCAST

✆5721 5200 www.winsec.com.au

Wang Rovers V Corowa Sat 31st from 1pm

43 Reid Street Wangaratta E: info@winsec.com.au Important Notice: Win Securities Ltd, AFSL Licence No. 240901, Australian Credit Licence No. 240901. Win Securities Ltd offers investments in Winsec Notes and is not a Bank. All investments involve risk and investors risk losing some or all of their principal investment.

The risk of investment in Win Securities Ltd is set out in our current Prospectus lodged with ASIC and dated 27 November 2024 and should be read and understood before investing.

Investments in Winsec Notes may only be made by completing the application form that accompanies the Prospectus.

Copies of our Prospectus are available at our office situated at 43 Reid Street Wangaratta or on our website at www.winsec.com.au or by calling 5721 5200.

Effective 12 December 2024. Subject to change without notice. *Conditions apply.

104 Murdoch Rd Wangaratta

5722 1569

admin@oakfm.com.au

THE CHRONICLE, Friday, May 30, 2025 - Page 3

wangarattachronicle.com.au

“Evil and terrifying”: tobacco standover man two years jail 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 firebombed 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 Gifts, and Ramseen Gifts, 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 first arrived at Wodonga with an unknown co-offender 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 puffer 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 Gifts 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 filmed 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 Gifts and Ramseen Gifts were extensively damaged by fire.

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 after 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 offending was of grave concern for the community.

Magistrate Ian Watkins said Al Essawi’s offending 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 fined an accumulative $1150 for other driving, theft of identification cards and drug possession charges.

He was also sentenced for imprisonment for possession of an imitation ‘Desert Eagle’ pistol.

SUPPORT TO ENABLE EMERGENCY READINESS AT NEIGHBOURHOOD HOUSE

By SIMONE KERWIN

Community Fund following storms in February last year, BEING prepared for emer- to support projects across gency events and power out- its electricity distribution network in Eastern and ages will be made easier for North East Victoria, and MelOpen Door Neighbourhood bourne’s north and east.

House and its community Pangerang Community through a $30,000 grant from Hub in Ovens Street has AusNet. previously received a grant Provided via the second through the fund and had round of the power comits solar power and battery pany’s Energy Resilience Community Fund, the grant installed earlier this year, and now Open Door will do is part of $1 million being the same. distributed across Victoria.

Gady Parker from Open AusNet executive genDoor said the $30,621 grant eral manager distribution Andrew Linnie said the fund from AusNet would fund a supported projects designed 7.6Kw solar and 6Kw battery to help build long-term com- system at the Burke Street house, for the back-up of munity energy resilience critical circuits which will and provide support during provide light and power at severe weather events. the site during emergency “We are actively investing events and outages. in our network to improve In addition, Indigo Power reliability and resilience. has assisted with the apThrough these grants, we’re pleased to contribute further plication process, easing the path to solar energy. to help build community “We had considered the energy resilience and assist option of solar over the years people to stay connected to reduce costs, and this and safe during prolonged funding gives us the opporoutages and emergencies,” tunity to do so,” Ms Parker he said.

AusNet established the $12 said.

“It will ensure people can million Energy Resilience

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, flooding and drought.

“Indigo Power offered 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 POWERING UP: Open Door Neighbourhood House’s Gady Parker (front) met with Heath opened on 26 May. Shakespeare from Indigo Power to discuss the upcoming installation of solar power at the For further information, Burke Street house, using an Energy Resilience Community Fund grant from AusNet. visit ausnet.com.au/ercf.

PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

“We have a wide range of short courses available for you or your business” Call today on 03 5721 0200 www.thecentre.vic.edu.au HLTAID011 - Provide first aid SITHFAB021 - Provide responsible service of alcohol (RSA) SITHFAB025 - Prepare and serve espresso coffee SITXFSA005 - Use hygienic practices for food safety HLTAID012 - Provide first aid in an education and care setting

Lets Get Social The Centre for Continuing Education, Inc. Reg No. A0001858K | A Child Safe Organisation TOID 4172

Page 4 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, May 30, 2025

wangarattachronicle.com.au

Planning under way for Grit and Resilience Festival

Est. 1884, Incorporating Wangaratta Despatch, Est. 1861

WEATHER

By SIMONE KERWIN

TEMPERATURES: Friday

Max 17 Min -1 Frost then sunny

Saturday Max 16 Min -1 Frost then sunny Sunday

Max 17 Min -1 Fog then sunny

Monday

Max 18 Min 1 Mostly cloudy

Tuesday

Max 18 Min 4 Late shower

OUTCOME: Australian Electoral Commission divisional returning officer Deborah Giosserano (left) hands a list of the official results to Indi MP Helen Haines fittingly printed on orange paper.

PHOTOS: Steve Kelly

RAINFALL:

Last 72 hours

Last 7 days

Wangaratta

0.0 mm

0.0 mm

Lake Buffalo

0.0 mm

0.0 mm

Cheshunt

0.0 mm

0.0 mm

*NB: Rainfall totals up until 3pm, Thursday

NEWS TIPS Office Hours: 5723 0100 After Hours: 5723 0107 Email: edit.chronicle@nemedia.com.au Fax: 5721 9447

CONTACTS POSTAL ADDRESS: 37 Rowan Street, Wangaratta GENERAL TELEPHONE INQUIRIES: 5723 0100 CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING INQUIRIES: 5723 0101 DISPLAY ADVERTISING INQUIRIES: 5723 0139 Fax: 5721 9447 Email: edit.chronicle@nemedia.com.au Website: wangarattachronicle.com.au

Find us on: ADVERTISING CLOSING TIMES Monday Issue: Display Thurs. 10am. Classifieds Fri. 2pm Wednesday Issue: Display Fri. 10am. Classifieds Tues. 2pm Friday Issue: Display Tues. 10am. Classifieds Thurs. 2pm Published by Hartley Higgins for North East Media Pty Ltd, 37 Rowan Street, Wangaratta 3677.

Responsibility for election comment is accepted by Editor Jeff Zeuschner.

Copyright: All advertising and editorial content of this issue is the copyright of North East Media Pty Ltd and cannot be used without the company’s permission.

Member

Victory confirmed, now the job ahead

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.

At Wednesday’s declaration of the poll, Indi’s incumbent federal MP was announced as the official 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 officer 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 final figures for each candidate.

BY STEVE KELLY

skelly@ nemedia.com.au

“I anticipate that while there are zero votes to be received by my office to be counted, there may be slight variations as a result of final sortings – these votes will not affect the final 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 after the declaration about Bradfield and Goldstein being the only seats without a confirmed result.

“We’re still waiting on a couple of seats, of course, Bradfield 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 influence 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 office 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 reflects the clear priorities of the people of Indi housing, 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.”

‘APPRECIATE the little things’ is the theme of this year’s Grit and Resilience Festival, which will again be held in the King George Gardens on Friday, 10 October.

Aligning with World Mental Health Day, the festival has become a much-loved event on the Wangaratta calendar over the past three years.

It has brought together hundreds of locals, community groups and organisations to celebrate connection, inclusion and mental wellbeing.

The theme of the fourth 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.

THE CHRONICLE, Friday, May 30, 2025 - Page 5

wangarattachronicle.com.au

GREAT EOFY DEALS ACROSS THE BT-50 RANGE SUPPORTERS: Hoping the community will support the current appeal are (from left) 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 (3 years), Be James, Leah Dridan and Jacqui Webb.

Ava Dining to host fundraising dinner for NHW

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 five-course dinner with expertly matched beverages, and one entry into the evening’s raffle.

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 raffle, 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 officer Libby Fifis 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 effort 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.

$55,198 DRIVE AWAY FROM

*

*conditions apply

COME IN AND SEE OUR BT-50 EXPERTS MARK AND NOEL FOR AN AMAZING DEAL THIS BT-50 WEEK

Meters being removed, motorists now have app-only paid parking ■ from page 1

“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.

“There are a variety of paid and free parking options throughout

the CBD precinct from one hour to all day parking,” 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.

GONE DIGITAL: The dysfunctional parking meters will be removed soon but motorists are already required to pay for parking via the EasyPark App.

*Conditions apply - See in store

WANGARATTA

M A Z DA

Dial-a-Deal 5721 5677

LMCT 12188

Scan QR code to view our entire range of Used Cars

Visit us at TEMPLETON STREET

MOVING YOU... ONE MILE AT A TIME

Page 6 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, May 30, 2025

wangarattachronicle.com.au

Purple-lidded bin passes, but green FOGO on hold

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 officer’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,

BINS GALORE: An 80-litre glass recycling bin will join the kerbside collection service in Rural City of Wangaratta towns.

Whitfield and Cheshunt ‘township’ and ‘low density residential’ zones.

Council will undertake a comprehensive community engagement and education campaign to inform them of

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.

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

Panel hears issues on high profile subdivision

Darling Estate Welcomes you to a

Weekend

By STEVE KELLY

Fit For a

King

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.

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

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 landfill 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 financial 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.

Get Your

Tickets

Kings Birthday Weekend, Sat & Sun 10am-5pm

| 94 Whitty Lane, Whitfield | 0494 300 520

Part of the King Valley’s Weekend Fit for a King festival

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, traffic 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 five 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 gifted the land for the IWMF including a storage pond.

“This particular proponent is being gifted recreational land and they’re reaping their $60 million project value,” she said.

The panel has 20 days after the conclusion of the hearing to recommend changes to the Rural City of Wangaratta and the panel report must be made public after 10 days of receipt.

Councillors will make a decision to approve the permit and it will then be sent to the minister for planning.

THE CHRONICLE, Friday, May 30, 2025 - Page 7

wangarattachronicle.com.au

Sicurezza sul posto di lavoro: parliamo la stessa lingua

Workplace safety is our common language

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

Understand your rights and responsibilities, so you can talk about safety at work.

To speak to WorkSafe with an interpreter call 131 450, or visit worksafe.vic.gov.au/languages

Scan for information in Italian.

Page 8 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, May 30, 2025

wangarattachronicle.com.au NOTE: Comments as they appear online, without corrections.

Celebrate those who give to the community 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/.

CROSSWORD NATIONAL CROSSWORDPUZZLE 14399 1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

10

9 11 12

13

14

15

18

19 22

23 25

27

16

24

26

28

29

30

NATIONAL CROSSWORD 31 32 33 1

9

2

3

35

4

5

13

18

7

14399 34 8

39 41

14 42

6

37 10

36 38 11

40 12

17

21

20

19

20

15

16

17

21

ACROSS to the letter 22 23 14 According 24 716Shrewd ACROSS 3 Postpone Makers of suits 9 Long effusion 17 Progress downward 25 26 819Remain 310Postpone Reddish-brown Unmusical sound 13 beds 92711Long effusion 28 thrust 29 twitchover 30 Sudden 20 Canopies Facial 12 Sloping type 24 Mourned to the 14 According 10 Reddish-brown 31 32 33 Pronoun 34 15 Den 26 11 18 Sudden Reservedthrust 28letter Lemon-like fruit 37 Minister 35 36 21 Consumed 30 16 Makers of suits 12 Sloping type 22 Bristle 33 Gusto 17 downward 15 23 Den Most unctuous 38 39 34 Progress Dogma 25 Moral 35 Irritation 19 18 40 Reserved 41Unmusical sound 27 Edicts 36 Comfort 20 21 29 Consumed Fashion 39 Facial Limb twitch 42 31 Normal drowned valley 24 Mourned 22 Bristle 32 Showing veneration 26 Pronoun to the letter 23 unctuous ACROSS 14 According 35 Most Valuable fibre 3 Postpone 16 Makers of suitsfruit 37 Sword-shaped 28 Lemon-like 25 Moral 9 Long effusion 17 Progress downward 38 Watchful 30 Minister sound 27 Edicts 10 19 Unmusical 40Reddish-brown Select 11 thrust 20 Facial twitchNo.14399 41Sudden With great rapidity (mus) 33 Solution Gusto 29 Fashion 12 24 Mourned 42Sloping Incited type 34 Dogma 31Den Normal drowned 15 26 Pronoun 18 Reserved DOWN 28 Lemon-like 35 Irritation fruit valley On the move 211Consumed 30 Minister Comfort 322Bristle Showing veneration 36 Much ornamented 22 33 Gusto 3Most Not robust 23 unctuous 34 Dogma 39 Limb 35 Valuable fibre Draw out 254Moral 35 Irritation 375Edicts Sword-shaped Work unit 27 36 Comfort 6 Regrets 29 Fashion 39 Limb 38 Watchful Shrewddrowned valley 317Normal 40 Select 8 Remain 32 Showing veneration 13Valuable Canopies over beds 35 fibre 41 With great rapidity 37 Sword-shaped (mus) 38 Watchful 40 42Select Incited 41 With great rapidity (mus) SOLUTION Solution No.14399 42 Incited

A O D E F E R A S R U S S E T S C R E E D N L U N G E T A T S T U D Y I T A L I C A T E R E T I C E N T S E T A O I L I E S T T E T H I C A L C D E C R E E S M O D E R I A R E V E R E N T E N S A T E I S T L E R A L E R T C N T V E L O C E C H O O S E N E G G E D N T H

A O D E F E R A S R U S S E T S C R E E D N L U N G E T A T S T U D Y I T A L I C A T E R E T I C E N T S E T A O I L I E S T T E T H I C A L C D E C R E E S M O D E R I A R E V E R E N T E N S A T E I S T L E R A L E R T C N T V E L O C E C H O O S E N E G G E D N T H

DOWN

DOWN 11 On move On the the move Much ornamented 22 Much ornamented 3 Not robust 34 Not Drawrobust out Work unit 45 Draw out 6 Regrets 57 Work Shrewdunit Remain 68 Regrets 13 Canopies over beds

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

• •

app-only parking.

Pity the • council make it hard for resi•into Wangaratta on aDropped recent dents and visitors including Eric Douthie:

Mike OConnor:

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

• •

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

• • • •

Like the

Wangaratta Chronicle Facebook page to have your say.

Our follower total is

15,336

Sussan Ley needs opposition unity 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 profile 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 first preferences and got a large amount of second preferences from the third who did not vote for either major party.

So, for the benefit 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”.

John Walker North, Wangaratta

Plea to councils to end period poverty 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 left, back) Patrick Edwards, Ebony O’Donohue, Danny Craven, Peter O’Donohue, Georgia Kelly and Emma Kelly; (front, from left) 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-periodThis week in parliament, I was proud to acpoverty/council-cares. knowledge Peter and Wendy’s contribution and Rochelle Courtena, Share the Dignity highlight the significance of the Marmungun founder and managing director 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 THIS Sunday the Wangaratta community will celebrating this proud moment with our comcome together to celebrate a special moment in munity.

Tim McCurdy, Member for Ovens Valley 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.

WE welcome your letters to the Editor. Priority is Their dedication and generosity have left a given to typed/emailed letters under 250 words. lasting impact, and this weekend, their handprints will be added to the Marmungun Rock at Every letter must have your full name, address Apex Park as part of Reconciliation Week. and a daytime phone contact number supplied for The Marmungun Rock tradition, instigated by verification purposes. Any letter may be edited for the late Uncle Wally Cooper, is a powerful sym- reasons of space, content or legibility. bol of unity and reconciliation.

It serves as a meaningful reminder of the Email edit.chronicle@nemedia.com.au importance of recognising and respecting all Post Letters to the Editor, cultures, and it’s heartening to see this tradition 37 Rowan St, Wangaratta 3677 continue in such a thoughtful and inclusive way.

Paying tribute to great community leaders

THE CHRONICLE, Friday, May 30, 2025 - Page 9

wangarattachronicle.com.au

NOTE: Comments as they appear online, without corrections.

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..

• • • •

Like the

Wangaratta Chronicle Facebook page to have your say.

Our follower total is

15,336

Tweet Penelope Joy 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.

A wee bit of pottery on Sunday while shooting some more portraits for the @ beechworthartscouncil #familyalbum #exhibition marc_bongers_photographer #pottery

Follow Check out some of our best photos at our @wangchronicle Instagram account.

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 VicRailNews @vicrailnews Wangaratta Station opens completing Inland Rail tranche 1 http://dlvr.it/TL1hSt #InlandRail #RailNews #VLine #Melbourne #victoria

@LopeyPen 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.

If you have something to say, add our handle @wangchronicle to your tweet and we will publish some each week.

ANNUAL TAX TIME

THURSDAY 5TH OF JUNE 7:30AM TIL 5:30PM NEW PRODUCTS - DISPLAYS - SPECIALIST REPS ON SITE PRODUCT DEMONSTRATIONS - FREE SAUSAGE SIZZLE

TOOL SALE ONE DAY ONLY

NOTHING BUT HEAVY DUTY

TRUSTED INDUSTRIAL & TRADE TOOL SUPPLIER

26 TONE RD WANGARATTA 03 5722 2288

Page 10 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, May 30, 2025

wangarattachronicle.com.au

More than $45,000 awarded through annual grant round

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 flexible, 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 offering 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

SUPPORTING THE COMMUNITY: Marion Nash, Mike Noble (centre) and Garry Nash are proud to announce the 20 local projects to receive a share of $45,797 through the 2025 Garry Nash & Co Community Fund. 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.

THE CHRONICLE, Friday, May 30, 2025 - Page 11

wangarattachronicle.com.au

Season 2025

What’s On A play by Maryam Master based on the bestselling book

7

JUNE

The Queen’s Nanny

SAT 7.30pm

27 JUNE

12 JUNE

THU 6.15pm

Kate Ceberano – Australian Made Tour

5

JULY

FRI 7pm

SAT 7.30pm

21

31

AUG

THU 7.30pm

Garry Starr – Classic Penguins

Oh What A Night!

AUG

SUN 3pm

Jimeoin – Pandemonium

19

Ratburger

JUNE

THU 10am, 12pm & 6pm

18 9 JULY FEB

FRI 7.30pm

Shamrock Tenors

1&2 SEP

MON 6pm TUE 10am & 12pm

20 JUNE

The Sounds of Simon & Garfunkle

FRI 7.30pm

26

Best of the Bee Gees – Saturday Night Fever

SAT 7.30pm

The Gruffalo’s Child

9 6

JULY

FEB SEP

Snow White – Victorian Ballet

La Boheme – Opera Australia

SAT FRI 7.30pm 7.30pm

Cnr Ford & Ovens Sts Wangaratta | 03 5722 8105 | wpacc.com.au

Page 12 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, May 30, 2025

wangarattachronicle.com.au

Local homeless shelter to open from 2 June

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.

Katie Noonan to present Grace at Wangaratta PACC 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.

Grant supports mental health knowledge boost

AS the first round of a mental health first 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 first 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 staff completed two days of training facilitated by St John Ambulance, covering mental health first 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 benefit from enhanced mental health support in their workplaces.

200 community and not-for$2000 from Australia Post to help than profit groups across Australia, of them focusing on mental Project 365 in its important work many health.

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 “definitely 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 first 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 first 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 effect’ 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

The program offers 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 first 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.

Local U3A member honoured for 22 years of involvement, service

By JORDAN DUURSMA

LIFE MEMBER: President Erica Pike (left) and treasurer Guy Robertson (right) celebrating Jenny McGregor’s (centre) U3A life membership.

PHOTO: 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 define 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 different people from different 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 offer a community to help people get the most out of their retirement.

For more information contact U3Awangaratta@gmail.com.

THE CHRONICLE, Friday, May 30, 2025 - Page 13

wangarattachronicle.com.au

Community set to celebrate 150 years of Oxley Shire Hall

BY ANITA McPHERSON

amcpherson@ nemedia.com.au

A SPECIAL event to celebrate the 150th birthday of the historic Oxley Shire Hall one of the Rural City of Wangaratta’s most significant 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 afternoon, a birthday cake and official ceremony, followed by food, music and entertainment into the night.

It promises to be the type of occasion befitting 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 significance 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, film screenings, trivia nights,

HERITAGE BUILDING: The historic Oxley Shire Hall (as it looked circa 1900) will celebrate its 150th birthday in June.

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.

PHOTO: Kurt Hickling 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 off 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-

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, afternoon tea and wine tastings from 3pm to 5pm, an official welcome and birthday cake from 5pm to 6pm, followed by an evening of food, music and entertainment, with refreshments available to purchase.

48th Historic Winton’s car-only program pleases crowds 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 fire 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 influential 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 first was the running of the Ted Brewster Trophy, which saw a national

field 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 field 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 PARADE: Austin Seven’s open the 48th Historic Winton in commemoration of the Austin 8.

PHOTO: Andy Day 2026.

7-8 WEEKEND JUNE CELLAR DOOR

FIT FOR A KING 175 KING VALLEY RD, WHITFIELD

Dance, sip & feast at Pizzini with delicious food by Pinchos, wine tastings and wine cocktails. Plus tunes by DJ Elijah on Saturday and on Sunday Paris & Co. and Bric a Brac.

Pizzini’s event is part of the Wines of the King Valley’s Weekend Fit for A King Festival.

Entry is $40pp includes event glass plus access to all festival venues.

For more details and to book your tickets www.wineofthekingvalley.com.au

PIZZINI.COM.AU

SANGIOVESE E SALSICCE

@PIZZINI

Celebrate Sangiovese with feasting, dancing & friends this King’s Birthday weekend!

Page 14 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, May 30, 2025

wangarattachronicle.com.au

Mental health support appreciated

By SIMONE KERWIN NORTH East Funerals staff member Chris Walker (pictured) was among the locals who recently took part in a mental health first aid scholarship program coordinated by the Wangaratta Grit and Resilience Program, using funds raised by local mental health initiative Project 365.

Chris, a care consultant and mortuary supervisor at North East Funerals, said staff had been approached by management asking if they would be interested in taking part in the program, which was open to small and medium businesses across Wangaratta.

“I started here as a mortuary technician, then moved into funeral arranging, and I thought (mental health first aid) would help with that role, which goes hand-in-hand with grieving,” Chris said.

“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.”

www.corcoranparker.com.au

SHOW AND SHINE: John Giggins, Belinda Giggins, Heath Lloyd and Thomas Giggins standing in-between Noel Gambold’s blue 1970 XY Ford Falcon and Heath Lloyd’s black 1971 XY Ford Falcon at the show and shine before the film screening.

PHOTOS: Auto Chick Photography

ON FIRE: Ian Hughes’s 1935 Ford Coupe.

CHERRY RED: Pat Ruston’s 1979 HZ Ute.

ON DISPLAY: Brenton Savage’s HT Holden Kingswood.

Running On Empty showing raises $2000

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 film 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 five-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

WEEKLY DRAW TUESDAY 3RD JUNE 2025 1. AWN 2. CP 3. ELD 4. NTR

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 film 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.”

I’m hearing stuff I haven’t heard in years!

DON

Justin Keane: 0427 927 500 jkeane@corcoranparker.com.au Reiley Murtagh: 0455 550 625 rmurtagh@corcoranparker.com.au Henry Dundas: 0428 573 109 Harvey Benton: 0407 265 240

Gordon Perkins: 0439 662 030 Shawn Spooner: 0427 652 439

Brady Purcell: 0437 611 615 Laurie Purcell: 0458 577 201

“Experience and Reputation”

Harris Doodewaard: 0408 851 333 Dane Fountain: 0436 442 306

Wangaratta's premier audiology clinic

angaratta udiology

Everyone deserves to communicate

82 Docker St Wangaratta|www.wangarattahearing.com.au|Phone: 03 5722 4433

THE CHRONICLE, Friday, May 30, 2025 - Page 15

wangarattachronicle.com.au

Treasures waiting to be found at the Wangaratta Book Fair

By ANITA MCPHERSON

BOOKS GALORE: Rotarians 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.

PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

LOCAL book worms will have the opportunity to restock their shelves in time for winter when the Wangaratta Book Fair returns to St Patrick’s Hall in Ford Street on Saturday, 7 June and Sunday, 8 June.

The Rotary Club of Wangaratta has once again joined forces with the Rotary Club of Appin Park Wangaratta to present two big days for book lovers to rifle through thousands of second-hand titles in search of treasure at bargain prices.

Whether your interest is in fiction, non-fiction, classic tales, family favourites or children’s books, every taste and genre are represented, and all are available at just $1 for

paperbacks and $2 for hard covers.

The Rotary Club of Wangaratta’s Keith Snowdon said long-time supporter of the event, Canny’s of Wangaratta, have been looking after 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 affordable gifts 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.

An open conversation about death won’t kill you

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

BRIDGING THE GAP: Talking about death isn’t as scary as it sounds according to endof-life doula, Rose Sexton.

PHOTO: Grace Fredsberg than 40 years nursing experience and qualifications 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

Z200 Series Zero-turn Mowers Elite level cut every time Get what you pay for with Kubota’s Z200 Series.

Designed for residential users that demand superior durability, comfort and performance, to handle even the most challenging mowing tasks.

Get to your local Kubota dealer today to learn more.

SHEPPARTON VIC 198-200 Numurkah Rd Ph: (03) 5821 3299

BENALLA VIC

UNCOMPROMISED RESULTS

EFFORTLESS PERFORMANCE Z232 MODEL STARTING FROM

$

183 Bridge St Ph: (03) 5762 3633

ALBURY/WODONGA 520 Dallinger Rd Ph: (02) 6025 5390

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 five, 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-

RRP INCL GST

www.bertolis.com.au

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.

FROM BEGINN EXPERTS WE FROM BEGINN YOU COVE EXPERTS WE The most comprehensive range of Sala YOU COVE

ORDER ONLINE MYS TomatoORDER ONLINE W Passata Sausage Cookware Making M

MYS The most comprehensive range ofdeliv Sala

deliv

Tomato Making W Passata Sausage Cookware Making M Making Pa Butcher Salami Smoking Supplies P Making Pa Ma Butcher Salami Smoking Supplies P Making order online & instore Ma OPEN 159 Vincent Road, Mon - Fri 9am - 5pm Sat 9am - 1pm Sun 9:30am - 12:30pm

Wangaratta

www.mysliceoflife.

FROM BEGINNERS TO EXPERTS OPEN 159 Vincent Road, Mon -HAVE Fri 9am - 5pmYOU COVERED. WE www.mysliceoflife.

Sat 9am - 1pm The Sunmost 9:30am - 12:30pm comprehensive range of Salami-Sausage making suppplies (03) 5798 3489 Find us on

8,199

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

Wangaratta

Mon-Fri 9am - 5pm Sat 9am - 2pm Sun 10am - 2pm 161 Vincent Road, Wangaratta

MYSLICEOFLIFE.COM.AU delivered or local pick-up

Page 16 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, May 30, 2025

wangarattachronicle.com.au

Fun at camp Cathedral College Wangaratta 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.

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.

HERITAGE FUN: CCW students Eli Taylor, Thomas Liddell and Jax Gray explored the historic wonders of Beechworth during their camp.

School run

Appin Park Primary School

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.

Wangaratta Primary School 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.

Great outdoors

In the kitchen

Yarrunga Primary School

Carraragarmungee Primary School

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.

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.

SCIENCE STUDY: Yarrunga Primary School student Harper Fenlon takes a close look at a yabby found at Mullinmur Billabong.

1

Incisor, molar, and canine are all types of what?

2

Which is greater: the distance from the centre of Earth to the North Pole, or the distance from the centre of Earth to the equator?

3

What is palynology the study of? Is it a) the study of tanning, b) the study of fossil trees or c) the study of pollen and dust?

4

How long, on average, does it take for a red blood cell to complete one cycle through the human body?

For more CSIRO Double Helix science visit www.csiro.au/helix or call 02 6276 6643.

5

How many solstices are there in a year?

QUIZ ANSWERS: 1. Incisor, molar, and canine are all types of teeth. 2. The spin of the Earth makes it bulge slightly at the middle, so it’s further from the centre to the equator! 3. c) Palynology is the study of pollen and dust. 4. On average, it takes about a minute for a blood cell to circulate your body. 5. There are two solstices in a year, the longest day of the year in summer and the shortest day in winter.

THE CHRONICLE, Friday, May 30, 2025 - Page 17

wangarattachronicle.com.au

WHAT’S ON THIS WEEKEND

Saturday market in St Patrick’s Hall

Across the Arts retrospective exhibition

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.

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.

Inside Outside exhibition in Wangaratta 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.

Wangaratta Contemporary Textile Award 2025 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 community market THE GREAT OUTDOORS: Come along to the free Outdoor Expo this Sunday at the Wangaratta Turf Club.

Gear up for All Outdoors Expo on this Sunday

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, fishing 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

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 12:15pm Paul 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.

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.

Wangaratta Historical Society open weekends 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.

BRUCE’S BLENDED MUSIC STYLE A MUST-HEAR LIVE

ROCKIN’ TUNES: BRUCE POULTER’S IMPRESSIVE MUSICAL REPERTOIRE IS GUARANTEED TO MAKE DA VINCI SOCIAL CLUB’S UPCOMING EVENT MEMORABLE.

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,

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

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.

Page 18 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, May 30, 2025

wangarattachronicle.com.au

Textile award impresses all at Wangaratta Art Gallery

By ANITA MCPHERSON FINALISTS in the Wangaratta Contemporary Textile Award 2025 were among an enthusiastic audience who gathered for the official announcement and opening at the Wangaratta Art Gallery on Saturday.

More than 100 guests attended the special event including seven of the 10 finalists, 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 first 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.

WINNING WORK: Jemima Wyman, Haze 19, 2024, winner of the Wangaratta Contemporary Textile Award 2025, installation view Wangaratta Art Gallery. PHOTO: Jeremy Weihrauch

OFFICIAL ANNOUNCEMENT: Celebrating the Wangaratta Contemporary Textile Award 2025 announcement were Sullivan + Strumpf associate director, Siobhan Slope (representing artist Jemima Wyman), Kyamba Foundation’s Alison FitzGerald, MAMA CEO and guest judge Dr Blair French, and Wangaratta Art Gallery director Rachel Arndt.

PHOTO: Jeremy Weihrauch The work, a custom-printed Chiffon 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 fibres, like soviet era propaganda textiles, war rugs, military camou-

flage 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 different 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 offer 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

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 finalists, is open to the public until 17 August.

Learn to Swim

$1K FOR MAY!

Safe Summer swimming starts in Winter!

• •

• Enjoy small classes, qualified instructors, with a focus on • safety, skills, and fun.

Dont miss our

BIGGEST

give away ever!

Get the ultimate pool heating package when you sign up a pool in May for just $1,000!

NORMALLY $9,899, ALL THIS IS YOURS FOR ONLY $1,000!* *Offer available to the first 10 customers only •

CATERING SURPRISE: A Battenburg-style cake was served at the official opening and announcement of the Wangaratta Contemporary Textile Award 2025, which responded to Jacqueline Stojanovic’s textile weaving, Adria.

$28.50 per fortnight with concession prices available*.

Weekly 30-minute lesson (during school terms).

FREE year round pool access!

FREE entry for one supervising adult.

Class availability 7 days a week.

ENROL TODAY

• OASIS HEAT PUMP 500 MICRON POOL BLANKET avaliable in 3 colours • STAINLESS STEEL POOL BLANKET ROLLER

+

=

$1,000

*Terms and Conditions apply

www.oipools.com (03) 5743 1060 oipools@outlook.com

To find out more and enrol, visit, wsac.vic.gov.au

*Terms & conditions apply

THE CHRONICLE, Friday, May 30, 2025 - Page 19

wangarattachronicle.com.au

NORTH EAST NATURALLY

GOLDEN WHISTLER – THE GLORIOUS SONGSTER

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.

VOCAL: A male Golden Whistler belts out his early morning chorus.

PHOTO: Chris Tzaros (Birds Bush and Beyond).

The Sounds of

Simon && Garfunkel Simon Garfunkel

118 THDAY BIR

WANGARATTA HOCKEY CLUB 1118

INVITES YOU TO OUR

TH

BIRTHDAY BASH H

H A captivating acoustic performance….

Performed by ‘Shelley & O’Regan’…

Saturday 31st May (TOMORROW)

…Homeward Bound…The Boxer

CATHEDRAL COLLEGE WANGARATTA

...Bridge Over Troubled Water…

...El Condor Pasa...

FIRST GAME KICKS OFF AT 8.15 A.M 🍴 BBQ UNTIL 3PM

 JUMPING CASTLE - FREE

🍰 BAKE SALE

🍰 FACE PAINTING (GOLD COIN)

🍰 INFLATABLE HOCKEY FIELD

🎂 BIRTHDAY CAKE

🎟 MAJOR RAFFLE DRAWN

 MEET THE SPONSORS

_/'�"'-

SF BUILDERS

Sounds of Silence... ...I am a Rock…...many more...

FRIDAY JUNE 20 - 7.30PM WANGARATTA PERFORMING ARTS & CONVENTION CENTRE www.wpacc.com.au

Page 20 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, May 30, 2025

wangarattachronicle.com.au

CASH FOR UNWANTED GOLD & JEWELLERY! Turn your unwanted jewellery and gold and precious items into CASH

We buy all gold Jewellery, Antiques & Contemporary Jewellery Diamonds, Silver Jewellery, Gold Sovereign Coins and other coins, Precious Stones, Including Broken Jewellery and Watches and unusual Items.

Your Questions Answered

HOW DO I DO THIS? Show your items to our expert buyers.

After we have calculated the price based on its resale value, you can then decide to sell them to us or just walk away with a free assessment of your jewellery!

WHY SELL? Is it worth keeping old jewellery that you will never wear again? The extra cash may help now or in the future rather than unwanted jewellery sitting in your drawer!

“Your Jewellery maybe worth a lot more than what you think!”

ONE DAY ONE DAYONLY! ONLY

Wednesday 5thofMarch 2025 -- 11am 11amto to3pm 3pm Tuesday 3rd June 2025

Wangaratta Club Wangaratta Bowls Bowls Club 20Park ParkLn, Ln,Wangaratta Wangaratta 20 Ph: 0481 290 411

Ph : 0481 290 411

www.hqjgoldexchange.com.au www.hqjgoldbuyersmelbourne.com.au

THE CHRONICLE, Friday, May 30, 2025 - Page 21

wangarattachronicle.com.au

Accolades for Wangaratta Players at recent regional theatre awards THE inclusive and welcoming environment The Wangaratta Players Inc offers 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 off 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 first 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 identified 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 final 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.

A NIGHT TO REMEMBER: The Wangaratta Players Inc representatives including (from left) Heather Lambert, Nicky Powell, Charlotte, Aleeta Carmody (back), Bec Carta (front), Makenzie Clark, Brad Buckingham (back), Kerrie Evans (front), Shane Douthie, Fiona Evans and Shelley Bovenkamp, celebrated their success at the APT Awards.

GALEN CATHOLIC COLLEGE

ANNIVERSARY You're part of our story— join us in celebrating 50 years of Galen this August.

AUGUST 2025 Fri 29

College Tours | 11am & 12pm at Galen

Sat 30

Anniversary Mass | 10am at Galen

Gala Evening | 7pm at the Gateway Hotel

REGISTER TO ATTEND

Page 22 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, May 30, 2025

Literary talks enjoyed

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 first 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 staff, it didn’t matter if only one or two people attended some of the sessions, as our aim was to offer a program to encourage thought, reflection, 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 often have special online sessions that we promote, such as author talks offered through BorrowBox, and we will look at options to screen SHARING THOUGHTS AND IDEAS: Wangaratta Library coordinator Loueen Twyford these in the library if the tim- welcomes patrons to the first session of the Sydney Writers’ Festival’s Live & Local ing is suitable,” she said. program on Thursday morning.

PHOTO: Simone Kerwin

Freshwater crays season opens Sunday RECREATIONAL fishers are being encouraged to get into the great outdoors during winter and catch a Murray spiny freshwater crayfish when the three-month season opens this Sunday, 1 June.

Victorian Fisheries Authority (VFA) chief executive officer Travis Dowling said the prized freshwater species could be caught in northern and North East Victoria and were great fun for fishers 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 campfire 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 fePARTICIPATING WINERIES:

MEASURE CORRECTLY: Key rules for Murray spiny freshwater crayfish include the 10-12cm ‘slot limit’. males in the system to produce offspring for years to come.”

In good news for the treasured native species, a study funded by recreational fishing 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 fisheries 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 fishing rules are balancing fishing 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 crayfish 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.

wangarattachronicle.com.au

Bullanginya Dreaming at Barooga lagoon shines a light on Bangerang peoples

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.

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

WEEKEND FIT FOR A KING WINE, FOOD & MUSIC

$40

FESTIVAL GLASS GIVES ACCESS TO ALL FESTIVITIES

5PM FRI 6TH K SAT 7TH V SUN 8TH JUNE 2025

www.winesofthekingvalley.com.au/weekend-fit-for-a-king/

30 MAY - 5 JUNE | 2025

Charming and stylish red brick home 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

SWITCH SAVENOW SOONER

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.

2

2

Agent

| Garry Nash & Co

Phone

| 03 5722 2663

Price

| $660,000

Land

| 766m2 approx.

5

Location | 45 Murdoch Road, Wangaratta

$2,000 back to you when you refinance your home loan* APPLY ONLINE NOW

*Visit humebank.com.au/switchnow for T&Cs. Terms, conditions, fees, charges and eligibility criteria apply. ABN 85 051 868 556. AFSL and Australian Credit Licence 244248.

At Your Service

Business Guide (03) 5723 0100 sales@nemedia.com.au

ROOF REPAIRS ROOF PAINTING

Rooffix

H A L L A B O UT

P L U MBI NG for hall your plumbing and gas fitting needs

Fo r Ha l l yo u r P l u m b i n g and Gasfitting needs.

Covering Wangaratta and NE Victoria

9Roof repair and restoration 9All work guaranteed 9Fully qualified roof tiler 9Local, well known tradesman CALL DARREN ON

0428 218 271 www.rooffix.com.au

0409 473 220

0409 473 220 Licence no. 104114

Licence no. 104114

At Your Service Business Guide Advertise for as little as $ 5723 0100

25

PER WEE K

sales@nemedia.com.au

If you’re not in the North East Property Guide, you’re not in the market.

The region’s best property guide located inside your local paper every week and online anytime.

A gateway to the good life IN the heart of Victoria’s renowned King Valley wine and gourmet region lies a rare gem that promises not just a home, but a lifestyle.

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.

With 55,000 litres of water storage

4

1

Agent

| Garry Nash & Co

Phone

| 03 5722 2663

Price

| $699,000

Land

| 1.5ha

2

Location | 3496 WangarattaWhitfield Road, Edi

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.

It’s not just a home - it’s a gateway to the good life in King Valley.

Take the property market with you Search over 10 million properties Australia wide.

Whether you’re buying, selling, renting or researching, the View app has everything you need in one place.

WEBB LEGAL C O N V E YA N C I N G & P R O P E R T Y L AW • RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL (VIC/NSW/QLD) • RURAL • ALPINE • R E L AT E D PA R T Y & FA M I LY T R A N S F E R S • L E A S E S & C O M M E R C I A L L AW • SALE & PURCHASE OF BUSINESS (VIC/NSW) O P E N A L L W E E K M O N D AY - F R I D AY 9 A M - 5 P M

P (03) 5721 5500 W WEBBLEGAL.COM.AU E info@webblegal.com.au

See all properties with view.com.au

Selling? We are.

NEW LISTING

4

2

1

3

2

4 Roger Street, WANGARATTA

97 Warby Range Road, GLENROWAN

Timeless appeal. A central classic.

6 acres (approx.). 2 titles. Big shed.

Available for private inspection. Call us for more.

Available for private inspection. Call us for more.

Price on Application

MOTIVATED VENDOR. OFFERS INVITED • 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.

• 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.

NEW LISTING

4

2

1

4

2

2 Sunset Drive, WANGARATTA

112 Lakeside Drive, CHESNEY VALE

Fully renovated. Move-in ready.

Modern home with stunning views

Available for private inspection. Call us for more.

Available for private inspection. Call us for more.

Price on Application

4

1

• 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.

2

3

2

54 Perry Street, WANGARATTA

20 Appin Street, WANGARATTA

‘Kinross’- CBD location

Solid brick with space / potential.

Available for private inspection. Call us for more.

Available for private inspection. Call us for more.

For Sale: $740,000 to $765,000

across all our estates ☞

• 3 bedrooms with built in robes.

• Neat, updated kitchen.

• Wood heater + ducted heating and cooling.

• Double carport. Garage. Good storage.

• Sunroom. Large laundry. Alfresco.

• 660 square metre block. Secure rear yard.

SOLD

SOLD

SOLD: 8 Wisteria Pde

SOLD: 82 Greta Rd

SOLD

SOLD

SOLD: 10 Carolina Ave

SOLD: 2-7 Russell Ave

SOLD

SOLD

SOLD: 2 Tilbridge

SOLD: 17 Riparian

SOLD

SOLD

SOLD: 84 Swan St

SOLD: 216 Orchard Drive

SOLD SOLD: Clear Creek Rd

SOLD SOLD: 5 Plymouth St

SOLD SOLD: 30 Murdoch Rd

SOLD SOLD: 83 Appin St

INSITE REAL ESTATE 72 Murphy St, Wangaratta (03) 5721 7995 • insiterealestate.com.au

2

For Sale: $499,000

• Tastefully renovated with Period features.

• Great kitchen for the ‘home chef’.

• Classic red brick. Re-stumped.

• Excellent outdoor living.

• Large workshop/shed.

• Appealing central location.

LAND LAND LAND Many options

2

For Sale: $685,000

• 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!

NEW LISTING

4

Angelo Pomponio

Trevor Morris

Simon McKay

Sarah Gregory

0409 640 119

0428 349 406

0438 004 615

0408 899 767

Wangaratta 5 Silverwood Grove

Milawa 185F Milawa-Bobinawarrah Road

Wangaratta 10 Dianella Street

740m2

376sqm

670sqm

1

2

1

2

3

Wangaratta 2 Billabong Drive 1154m2

2

3

2

2

Low Maintenance and Style in Milawa

Modern Home in Creek View Estate

Classic Ranch Style Home on Large Allotment

For Sale $495,000 View by appointment, Wangaratta.nutrienharcourts.com.au/L33988123 Nutrien Harcourts Wangaratta

For Sale $690,000 - $730,000 View by appointment, Wangaratta.nutrienharcourts.com.au/ L33638491 Nutrien Harcourts Wangaratta

For Sale $735,000 - $775,000 View by appointment, Wangaratta.nutrienharcourts.com.au/L21903209 Nutrien Harcourts Wangaratta

Hugh Amery M 0487 777 311

Danial Siperki M 0400 027 473

Paul Reid M 0417 537 520

Harcourts Wangaratta

Harcourts Wangaratta

Harcourts Wangaratta

Tarrawingee 228 River Road

Waldara 113 Old School Road

Wangaratta 16A Crisp Street

Wangaratta 8 Harper Sreet

3.59 Acr

5 Ac

382m2

920 sqm

Development Opportunity with Approved Plans & Permits Ready to Build For Sale $280,000 View by appointment, Wangaratta.nutrienharcourts.com.au/L23295630 Nutrien Harcourts Wangaratta Danial Siperki M 0400 027 473 Harcourts Wangaratta

3

1

2

2

4

2

4

2

2

4

2

2

Lifestyle opportunity in Tarrawingee township

Waldara Lifestyle Living with Development Opportunity

Stunning Home in Central Location

Fully Renovated in Highly Sought Central Location

For Sale $775,000 View by appointment, Wangaratta.nutrienharcourts.com.au/ L32635463 Nutrien Harcourts Wangaratta

For Sale $1,060,000 View by appointment, Wangaratta.nutrienharcourts.com.au/L19742379 Nutrien Harcourts Wangaratta

For Sale $1,100,000 - $1,200,000 View by appointment, Wangaratta.nutrienharcourts.com.au/ L19193820 Nutrien Harcourts Wangaratta

For Sale $1,150,000 View by appointment, Wangaratta.nutrienharcourts.com.au/L19190940 Nutrien Harcourts Wangaratta

Hugh Amery M 0487 777 311

Danial Siperki M 0400 027 473

Danial Siperki M 0400 027 473

Danial Siperki M 0400 027 473

Harcourts Wangaratta

Harcourts Wangaratta

Harcourts Wangaratta

Harcourts Wangaratta

Myrrhee 1475 Benalla-Whitfield Road 58 Ac

4

2

2

Oxley 15 Gibb Street

Waldara 54 Wonga Park Drive

Wangaratta 11-13 Mason Street

2.5Ac

4145sqm

6 Acres

3

2

2

4

2

4

Architecturally Built Home with Passive Solar Features

Style and Tranquillity with Development Opportunity

Magnificent Family Home in a Prestigious Location

‘Unique Development Opportunity’

For Sale $1,480,000 View by appointment, Wangaratta.nutrienharcourts.com.au/L19192688 Nutrien Harcourts Wangaratta

For Sale $1,550,000 - $1,700,000 View by appointment, Wangaratta.nutrienharcourts.com.au/L19190732 Nutrien Harcourts Wangaratta

Contact agent View by appointment, Wangaratta.nutrienharcourts.com.au/L33002921 Nutrien Harcourts Wangaratta

For Sale $2,150,000 View by appointment, wangaratta.nutrienharcourts.com.au?L22321743 Nutrien Harcourts Wangaratta

Hugh Amery M 0487 777 311

Hugh Amery M 0487 777 311

Danial Siperki M 0400 027 473

Hugh Amery M 0487 777 311

Harcourts Wangaratta

Harcourts Wangaratta

Harcourts Wangaratta

Harcourts Wangaratta

Wangaratta 14 Chisholm Street

1169m2 1 1 3 “Kingsview” CBD Location & River Views

∙ Californian Bungalow in an exclusive location with timeless charm and original features ∙ Centrally located with uninterrupted King River views ∙ Located on a spacious 1170m2 allotment ∙ Original period features throughout the home with 12 ft high ceilings and a wide hallway ∙ Flexible 2-3 bedroom layout with original bathroom and functional kitchen ∙ Split system heating and cooling for yearround comfort ∙ Amazing renovation/extension potential to create a stunning riverside residence ∙ Have the CBD at your doorstep with this prime, exclusive central location

AUCTION Friday 6th June 1pm - Onsite View by appointment, Wangaratta.nutrienharcourts.com.au/ L26690453 Danial Siperki M 0400 027 473

Wangaratta Selling & Leasing, Residential, Rural & Commercial

Joe McKenzie

Paul Reid

SALES

Anthony D'Agostino Hugh Amery

Andrea Bowman Danial Siperki

Lori SamCurr Lyster

PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

Marni McKenzie

4444Ryley Wangaratta Ryley Street, Street, Wangaratta

03 035722 57229444 944 admin.wang@nh.com.au admin.wang@nh.com.au www.wangaratta.nutrienharcourts.com.au www.wangaratta.nutrienharcourts.com.au

Hyundai Santa Fe XRT Hybrid open for more

By CHRIS RILEY, MARQUE MOTORING

hybrid with a 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol- engine kicks off 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 offroad XRT Peak Option Pack, which adds $9990 to the price, bringing the estimated driveaway price to $93,575.

The XRT pack adds 17-inch off-road wheels and tyres, mudflaps, off-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.

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 SAFETY Five star safety extends to for 12 months.

10 airbags, head-up display, 360-degree camera and auSTYLING Priced from $53,000 (the tonomous emergency brakprice has grown with the ing.

The latter is capable of car), available with petrol and hybrid powertrains in either detecting and reacting to vulnerable road users such two- or all-wheel drive.

That gets you the base un- as pedestrians, cyclists and named version with a 2.5-li- motorcyclists and operates tre turbocharged four cylin- at speeds from 5-85km/h.

There’s also active cruise der petrol-engine along with an eight-speed dual clutch control, traffic sign recognistyle automatic and front- tion, blind-spot monitoring with active collision avoidwheel drive.

In case you’re wondering, ance, auto evasive steering there isn’t any diesel any- assist, lane keeping assist, more - the hybrid now fulfils junction-turning and crossing this role and pretty well to a assist, steering-initiated rear evasive assist and driver atpoint as we discovered.

Base petrol with all-wheel tention warnings, Navigation-based smart drive is another $3000 at $56,000, while the base cruise control recognises

■ BIGGER PRICE, BIGGER CAR: Hyundai’s latest Santa Fe model has an increased wheelbase of 50mm, offering up much more leg room.

AT A GLANCE MODEL LINE-UP: SANTA FE 1.6 T-GDI 2WD HYBRID: $55,500 SANTA FE 1.6 T-GDI AWD HYBRID: $58,500 SANTA FE 1.6 T-GDI AWD HYBRID ELITE: $65,000 SANTA FE 1.6 T-GDI AWD HYBRID CALLIGRAPHY: $75,000 NOTE: These prices do not include government or dealer delivery charges. Contact your Hyundai local dealer for drive-away prices. the vehicle ahead using the front-view camera and front radar, and determines the safe speed range for curves ahead using the navigation system.

ENGINES / TRANSMISSIONS 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 off-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 off-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

Page 28 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, May 30, 2025

wangarattachronicle.com.au

Rural City Connection Friday 30 May 2025 Have Your Say on the following projects via Connect Wangaratta

Community Grants Closing Soon 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

AI Forum Wangaratta 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

Community Vision

Firewood Depots Open

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

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 Office. 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

Community Engagement Report

Expressions of Interest – Office Space Available

You can access the Community Engagement report for the Council Plan and Community Vision, here: https://connect.wangaratta.vic.gov.au/council-plan

Premium office 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 office space options • Off-street parking Contact Garry Nash & Co. to discuss. www.garrynash.com.au

Marmungun Rock 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

EasyPark App Community Education 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

Positions Vacant Role Early Childhood Educator - Level 2 Maintenance Worker - Drainage Safety and Wellbeing Officer Financial Accountant Maintenance Worker - Unsealed Team Leader - Sealed Membership & Engagement Officer

All Outdoor Expo

Synergy Youth Hub 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.

Come along to a day of outdoor activities and local trade displays. Explore a wide range of outdoor stalls offering 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

Closing 2-Jun-25 2-Jun-25 2-Jun-25 2-Jun-25 2-Jun-25 2-Jun-25 2-Jun-25

For further information on these positions please visit www.wangaratta.vic.gov.au/Your-Council/Careers

Contact your Councillors Tania Maxwell

Appin Ward 0447824785 t.maxwell@wangaratta.vic.gov.au

David Fuller

Bullawah Ward 0429 545 907 d.fuller@wangaratta.vic.gov.au

Harry Bussell

King River Ward 0429 475 863

h.bussell@wangaratta.vic.gov.au

Harvey Benton

Deputy Mayor Ovens Ward 0429 542 928 h.benton@wangaratta.vic.gov.au

Irene Grant

Mayor Warby Ward 0428 189 249 i.grant@wangaratta.vic.gov.au

Council Contact Details 03 5722 0888 council@wangaratta.vic.gov.au Wangaratta Government Centre Cnr Ford & Ovens Streets Wangaratta 3677 PO Box 238, Wangaratta, VIC 3676. Open - Monday to Friday from 8.30am to 4.30pm Closed - Public Holidays

Ashlee Fitzpatrick

Wareena Ward 0448 384 600 a.fitzpatrick@wangaratta.vic.gov.au

Allison Winters

Yarrunga Ward 0437 181 228 a.winters@wangaratta.vic.gov.au

wangaratta.vic.gov.au

wangarattachronicle.com.au

IN PERSON BY PHONE BY EMAIL 37 Rowan Street, classifieds@ 5723 0101 Wangaratta nemedia.com.au 3677

WHEN TO BOOK

THE CHRONICLE, Friday, May 30, 2025 - Page 29

Chronicle Classifieds 2pm business day prior to print North East Jobs 3pm Friday

SELLING A CAR

2 WEEKS REGIONAL WITH PICTURE

from $42

OPEN HOURS 9AM TO 5PM MON-FRI

BUY ONLINE

General Classifieds: wangarattachronicle.com.au Employment: northeastjobs.com.au Real Estate: northeastproperty.com.au

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

FOR SALE

EMPLOYMENT

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, d r ive wa y s, s h e d slabs, verandahs, 15 years experience. For a free quote phone Trev Anderson on 0422 200 761.

FRANKS DOG T R A I N I N G , b e h a v i o r a l solutions, qualified, experienced, affordable. 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.

W H E E L E R Earthworks, available for all your earthworks needs yard clean ups, stump removals, driveways, material supply and sp rea d i n g , r u ra l work and more. Call Marcus on 0491 094 545.

ANTIQUES, retro fu r n i t u re, t o ol s, shop shelving, dolls houses, bone cutlery set, craft, sewing, plants. Friday, May 30, 12pm-5pm, Saturday, May 31, 9am-3pm, 66 Edwards Street, Wangaratta.

G A R A G E / WAREHOUSE SALE, antiques, household go o d s, fu r n i t u re packs and more.

Fr i da y, Ma y 3 0 , 2pm-5pm, Saturday, May 31, 9am start, 14 Gibson Street, Wangaratta - cash only.

BROWN FAMILY WINE GROUP POSITIONS VACANT

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.

CLASSIFIEDS - 5723 0101

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 n ew an d secondhand, trailer, rims, wrecking. New hours 9am to 5pm, Monday, Tuesday, We d n e s d a y, 4 4 Newman Street, Wangaratta. Ph 0428 257 221, Adzam Tyres.

7X5 Box Trailer built in 2018 by Wangaratta Trailer Sellers, must sell, located Wangaratta, $600 nonnegotiable. Ph 0431 072 232.

2017 Ford Transit CamperVan,54,000km, (1KG6TW),$56,000, for more information ring Phil 0418 994 147.

We are a proud and passionate business, determined to maintain our certification 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

GALAXYSOUTHERN CROSSSERIES4 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

$23,000 ONO Ph 0438 003 652

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 2012 Holden Captiva, 877. 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.

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.

• Casual Pruners (Banksdale Vineyard) 2007 Regal deluxe 28ft caravan, good condition, bathroom, washing machine, solar panels, registered March 2026 and more details, $32,000. Ph 0407 317 372.

• 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.

SCAN TO APPLY

BENALLA RURAL CITY COUNCIL Family Liaison Officer Part-Time (0.7 EFT 26.6 hours per week)

Sell it!

Classifieds

Classifieds get results.

Phone: 03 5723 0101

• Reliability Technician (Maintenance Fitter), Full Time

If you don't use it...

Classifieds

WORK!

• Cellar Door Shift Leader, Part Time

5723 0101

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. www.benalla.vic.gov.au

Page 30 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, May 30, 2025

wangarattachronicle.com.au

Classifieds Your Local Marketplace EMPLOYMENT

EMPLOYMENT

Maintenance Coordinator

Looking for a change of direction?

PRIVATE NURSING HOME

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?

About us 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 after each other to do what it takes to get the job done • A professional work environment with high quality tools, equipment and facilities To Apply 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.

EMPLOYMENT

EMPLOYMENT

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

• 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

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.

contribute to the Case Management Review process.

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 lift 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

EMPLOYMENT

• 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

CreditCard& Eftposfacilities Why not charge your advertisement to Mastercard or Visa?

5723 0101

Classifieds

MYOTHERAPIST & REMEDIAL MASSAGE (Subcontractor)

assessments, parole application and pre-release services.

• Coordinate applications for parole and

or go online anytime at

Beechworth Permanent Full-time $87,358 - $95,412

www.indigoshire.vic.gov.au Phone: 1300 365 003

Assessment and Transition Coordinator

Find your next job in the classified section of the

JOBS AT INDIGO

Connecting with the community in so many ways.

Share your thoughts on facebook and have your favourite newspaper delivered to your computer, tablet or smartphone.

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

VIEW US ONLINE!

https://www.wangarattachronicle.com.au @wangchronicle facebook.com/WangarattaChronicle

THE CHRONICLE, Friday, May 30, 2025 - Page 31

wangarattachronicle.com.au

Classifieds Your Local Marketplace DEATH NOTICES

CLARK,

Personal Notices

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.

FUNERAL NOTICES

BEREAVEMENT THANKS

TODAY

17o

Mostly cloudy

18o 18o 18o THURS

FRI

SAT

Wednesday, May 28, 2025

BAILLIE,

Jesse Liam.

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 final goodbyes to Jesse.

Jesse’s service can be viewed via live stream at www.northeastfunerals.com.au/livestream.

REICH, Mandy.

edit.chronicle@nemedia.com.au

Purple bins on the way for 12,000 households

$2.00 inc GST

wangarattachronicle.com.au

Traffic adjusts to intersection works

Full wrap of O&K netball

plus Page 3

tv

GUIDE

Page 3

Sport

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, flowers 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. ~ Blessings Manfred, Simon, Henry and Wendy Reich.

CELEBRATION: Dignitaries including (from front left) V/Line acting executive project director Anita Gelfond, Indi MP Helen Haines, Minister for Infrastructure and Transport Catherine King, Inland Rail CEO Nick MIller, McConnell Dowell operations manager Harriet Christopherson, and Rural City of Wangaratta Mayor Irene Grant were joined by others at the project opening, which included the ceremonial ribbon cutting (inset).

PHOTOS: Steve Kelly

$70m rail build Minister officially opens new Wangaratta Railway Station transformation as part of Inland Rail: Construction created $18m in employment, benefiting 48 Wangaratta businesses and 488 people

THE $70 million Inland Rail project at Wangaratta was officially opened with dignitaries marking the historic occasion on-site yesterday.

Planning and works have been five years in the making, and 48 Wangaratta businesses have benefited from $18m in employment during the construction phase, including 488 local people liv-

BY STEVE KELLY

skelly@ nemedia.com.au

ing in the Wangaratta district.

It was part of tranche one Inland Rail Beveridge to Albury, which cost $300 million, with $161 million of this spent on employment including $10.5m with First Nations’ businesses - and

overall about 1500 workers were locals.

Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Catherine King opened the Wangaratta Inland Rail project with the cutting of a ribbon, while a local choir sang an entertaining song titled ‘Wangaratta Choo Choo’, written by Jim McKean, to mark the milestone event.

“As part of getting double

stacked freight trains onto Inland Rail we’ve also been able to upgrade this rail precinct in Wangaratta,” Ms King said.

“There have been so many local people from the surrounding district employed on this project.

“The fact that we’ve seen local electricians, plumbers, construction workers building this precinct here is a great testament to the skills

and Inland Rail contributing to the skills growth in this community.”

The Wangaratta Railway Station project works included the filling of the former dive track and platform on the Norton Street side, removal of two pedestrian bridges, building of a new west track and platform for northbound traffic, installation of accessibility infrastructure such as

lifts, pedestrian ramps and amenities, and new carparking on the east and west sides of the station.

As part of the project the tracks were lowered 2.8 metres under the Green Street bridge to allow for doublestacked freight trains, and the old bridge was replaced, complete with road works and barriers.

■ Continued page 2

FIREWOOD FOR SALE

CALL US ON 0429 101 236 or order online by scanning the code

DYER, Bert “Skipper”.

KEIR HUDSON, Ken. Always in our hearts.

Love to the Hudson family.

Our thoughts are with you all. ~ The Finlayson family.

DEATH NOTICES KEIR, Allison.

FUNERAL DIRECTORS

Anytime, Anywhere, Anyhow.

Page 4 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, January

SOCIAL FOCUS

15, 2021 wangarattachronicle.com.au

Charge up your engines

THE CHRONICLE, Friday, January 15,

Wangaratta students compare admirably

MEMBERS of the Northeast Radio Control Car Club gathered at Mitchell Avenue last Saturday to test their vehicles in competition.

New members are always welcome.

For more information contact president Matthew Johnson-Begg on 0467 974 305.  INTO HIS CARS: Gordon Flighty

with his Touring Car. PHOTOS: Kieren Tilly

 REVVED UP: Northeast Radio Control Club president Matthew Johnson-Begg works on his machine in the pits.

 HOT WHEELS: Teo Valle (9) from Peechelba raced for the first time in RC Touring Class.

THE Wang Repair Café will hold its next event tomorrow at Apex Park from 8am until 12pm.

The café will have some t-shirt rugs for sale as well as other items, and cash donations as well as donations of unwanted Christmas presents for them to sell would be appreciated, as the volunteer-run organisation seeks assistance to cover its operating costs and ensure its continuation.

Bring items in need of repair to the park tomorrow morning where volunteers will be on hand to help bring them back to life.

 FAST TRUCK: Talon Fullerton (14) from Wangaratta with his racing truck.

A

SIGH OF RELIEF: After a long, tough

IS NOW IN PLACE

(left) and Amy Henderson were celebrating

double degree in Arts and Public Policy with a major in third-world development at the Australian National University in Canberra.

“I was happy with my ATAR score even if I thought I could do better but it’s been a tough year,” Kayla said.

“It was difficult not having feedback from classmates because I didn’t know if I was doing okay or needed to improve.

“But, I got there in the end and am

looking forward to the next step.”

Amy, 18, will be doing occupational therapy at Deakin but hopes to branch into humanitarian work in third world countries.

“I had hoped for a higher ATAR but I didn’t need one, I’m pretty happy with how I went,” Amy said.

“Last year I really missed out on having the balance of sport and social aspects of school which really help me get through the study aspect.

their university offers yesterday.

PHOTO: Kieren Tilly

Musicians invited to orchestra meeting MUSICIANS interested in becoming part of a new regional orchestra being formed in Wangaratta will be meeting in the King George V Gardens on Sunday at 2.30pm.

A newly formed committee, involving local violinist Sally Ross, will be in attendance and the group welcomes other potential members to come along, particularly seeking violin and flute players, a percussionist and a conductor.

For more information visit the Wangaratta Arts Council on Facebook or come along to the meeting in the park on Sunday.

W

Home Care Packages for Wangaratta

Live at home for longer

For more information visit CORONAVIRUS.vic.gov.au Authorised by the Victorian

Latrobe Community Health Service has worked as a trusted provider of Home Care Packages for 23 years. If you live in Wangaratta or the surrounding area, we can help you live at home for longer.

aGardening and home cleaning aHome nursing services aCaring local staff aTransport for medical appointments a Personal care

Government, Melbourne

1800 242 696 or visit care.lchs.com.au

“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.

offers

“The offer I received was my first choice so I’m really happy with that.

“I’ll jump straight in this year I think because my initial plans to have a gap year and travel aren’t likely now.

“Eventually I want to go into allied health overseas and Kayla and I have always talked about collaborating; she’s more interested in the politics side and I’d do the health side so that could be cool.”

O

Victorian and New South Wales border residents will be able to travel into Victoria by showing their driver’s licence or other formal photo ID, to access the services they need.

Travel delays are expected, so please plan ahead.

year local graduates Kayla Fisher

Teens look to the future with uni

WANGARATTA High School year 12 graduates Kayla Fisher and Amy Henderson were among hundreds of local students, and tens of thousands around the state, who received their first round university offers yesterday.

The pair are both interested in humanitarian work and development, and were offered their first choice course at their chosen universities.

Kayla, 17, has been offered a

N

McCARTHY, Theodora

2021 - Page 5

after a year like no other

Wang Repair Café returns

BORDER BUBBLE

A funeral experience... not just a funeral service

wangarattachronicle.com.au

Country stacks up in VCE

A STUDENT’S ability to apply themselves during their schooling is a large ting a slightly better percentpart of how they perform Beechworth Secondary Mansfield Secondary Col- College age of 40+ scores at 3.6pc College

BY STEVE in VCE, but there are many Wodonga had a mehad a median study lege had a median of 29 with dian of 29, with compared to Cathedral’s score KELLY other factors that contribute 3.2pc 40+. of 29, but it was its 40+ 1.3pc of scores 40+.

3.3pc. their desired outcome such skelly@ Yarrawonga College P-12 score that was a standout Myrtleford P-12 College was nemedia.com.au But while Wangaratta with as getting into a university a median of 28 with 13.7pc reaching the A had a median of 28 with 3.3pc of scores High School had a lesser me- grade course of their choice.

40+. figure.

Wangaratta’s three sec- dian 3.9pc of scores 40+, while study score at 26, it was Despite students dealing ondary The top three schools in Benalla P-12 College had Marian schools stack up well better than College had a me- Victoria were Galen and Cathe- a median study with adversity from the pan- when Bialik Colscore of 26, dian of 28 with zero compared to others dral with a 40+ percentage of with zero over scores lege in Hawthorn that demic in 2020 and the touted across had 40+, while FCJ 40+. the region and even 3.9. country-city education divide, several a median of 38 with 39.9pc College Benalla had a strong metropolitan counMount Beauty Secondary of scores Across the region Goul- median they performed reasonably terparts 40+, Mount Scopus of 30 with 6pc of College had across the state. a median of 28, Memorial College burn Valley Grammar School scores well judging by the VCE study was next 40+.

Galen Catholic College in Shepparton with 2.7pc of scores 40+. scores released by the Victo- and had a median with 38 and 39.7pc, with Euroa Secondary College’s Cathedral College both 35 with Wodonga Senior Second- Ballarat 21.6pc achieving dux achieved rian Curriculum and Assess- achieved Clarendon College one of the ary College had a median study 40+, placing a median third with 38 and 38.4pc. ment Authority (VCCA). it 30th best in highest scores score of 29 with Galen get- Victoria. in the region score of 23, with 1.1pc of For the full results visit with a 98.55 ATAR. scores 40+, while Catholic vcaa.vic.adu.au.

LL

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.

N.J. TODD BENALLA (03) 5762 2461 EUROA 1800 352 425 Member AFDA

Local News.

CA

Passed away peacefully at Blackwood Cottage, Beechworth Health on Friday, May 16, 2025.

Aged 79 years.

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.

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.

XOXO

Latrobe Service

Mason Park Funerals

‘Forever in our hearts, will be sadly missed.

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

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.

ZEINSTRA 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

Family owned and operated

03 5722 2525 www.northeastfunerals.com.au

Personal Notices

Personal Notices Subscribe now at

wangarattachronicle.com.au

Page 32 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, May 30, 2025

wangarattachronicle.com.au 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.

AUSTIN CANNING

MADDOX COLEMAN

SAMUEL GULEY

LOGAN VINCENT

LUKE O’BRIEN

TOM HILL NOAH GIGLIOTTI

CHARLIE HOURIGAN

ZANDER IVORY MASON BARR

RAFFERTY LYSTER JAX BORSCHMANN

COOPER BOWMAN

THE CHRONICLE, Friday, May 30, 2025 - Page 33

wangarattachronicle.com.au

SPORT

Bears claw their way to victory in A and B grades WANGARATTA Rangers Black played Porepunkah Panthers in all grades of North East Baseball at Targoora Park on Sunday.

The juniors were first 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 first at bat, while Rangers were slow to start and did not get any runs in their first 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 first 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 five 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 first inning but left two runners on base when they lost their third out.

Rangers scored three runs in their turn at bat and the Panthers’ first four batters were all brought home before they lost their first 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’ first two batters were both put out before they reached first 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 fifth turn at bat that Panthers got their first batter on first base safely.

Although Rangers Black were not doing much better, they had scored six runs in their first three innings to lead six runs to nil at the top of the fifth innings.

With two batters out, Panthers started to bat safely and scored three runs in fifth 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 five.

In the A game that followed, the Panthers’ woes continued although they scored three runs in their first turn at bat, and it was to be the only innings that they scored in.

Rangers Black did not have it all their own way, scoring just one run in their first innings, shut down in the second, scored another four in the third, only one in the fifth and three more in the last to win by six runs in the finish in a good, tight fielders 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

SAFE: Josh Wells (Rangers Black) sliding into base with Scott Jenkins (Rangers Orange) at base.

PHOTO: Yack Drone 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, five.

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 first 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.

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 first innings.

Rangers Orange scored their first run when their lead off batter was walked to first base and was brought home by the batters that followed before they lost their third out.

Bears scored five runs in their next turn at bat then got Rangers Orange out, three up, three down to hold a five

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 field 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 five at the top of the fifth innings.

Tony Smith and Steve Peruzzo both hit a two-baser and were brought home by the following batters in the fifth.

They then had Bears two out and two on base, and a

fielding error saw those two runners come home before the third out was made and still holding a two-run lead.

Orange had another safe hit by Bennett and a big three base hit to right field 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 left a runner on base when they lost their third out, then Bears first batter got on base from a safe hit, stole second and came home on a fielding 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 first batter got on first 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 outfield to bring in runners ahead of them.

Tom Simmons was Bears best, he batted 1000 (five safe hits from five 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 five 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.

Bringing the thunder to Oxley table tennis

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 ‘swift-serve’ Spurzon, Graham ‘the grounded’ Stephens and Phoebe ‘the fast-hitting’ Morgan saw projectiles fly 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.

ROCKET RETURNS: At the forefront table, Manni Poulos, Neil Spurzon, Richard Morgan and BYO bat, $2 entry and a Adrian Branken exchange a quickfire rally, while at the back table, Neil Brock, Millie and plate to share.

Adam Boskey and June Uebergang discuss a point.

PHOTO: Phoebe Morgan

Page 34 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, May 30, 2025

wangarattachronicle.com.au

SPORT

Knights impress with twin victories over Bears

ROUND five of the Goulburn Murray Storm Premiership kicked off with a commanding performance from the Knights’ Ladies team, who left no doubt about their dominance with a 46–0 shutout victory over the Bears.

From the first 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 final siren, the Wangaratta Knights narrowly defeated the Border Bears 32–30.

The game was a fierce 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 solidifies 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 off to Mooroopna to play the CSU Mud Dogs, with the men taking a bye for round five.  BAD NEWS FOR BEARS: Semesa Seruvatu breaking through a tackle.

PHOTO: Fox & Found Images

SCOREBOARD WANGARATTA GOLF CLUB

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.

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. KFC Cooper 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.

TARRAWINGEE GOLF CLUB

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.

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.

WANGARATTA CROQUET CLUB Less than one kilometre later we RESULTS for Monday, 26 May: passed the river crossing that leads Maureen O’Keefe and Nathan towards Sandy Flat Track.

Reynolds d Joan Dyson and Susan We were fortunate that this was Fischer 7/3, Elise Downes and Cheryle 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.

THE CHRONICLE, Friday, May 30, 2025 - Page 35

wangarattachronicle.com.au

Dragons’ birthday bash 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, inflatable 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 field.

Dragons president Daniel Warner said their players are gearing up for an exciting weekend.

“Cathedral College is marking out a second hockey field 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 afternoon 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 first quarter the Maggies jumped out of the box scoring quickly and early.

After 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.

ADVANCE: Amelie Reilly runs the ball upfield.

BATTLE FOR THE BALL: Hannah Lindsay and Emma Gall advance up the field as their opponent battles PHOTOS: Wes Samson for the ball.

DEFENCE: Hannah Lindsay advances the ball with her opponent on her heels.

STICK CONTROL: Kat Riley in full control.

After 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 midfield 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.

After the final siren the team was buoyed by the abilities of the young players and the bright future this club has.

Division 3 Women The Wangaratta Dragon ladies had a few new entrants to the team with Pip Murray and Caitlyn Barden playing their first 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 field shots that just weren’t making it into the goals.

Magpies did an amazing job holding off all shots on goal until the last quarter with Jamie-Lee Sexton sneaking a shot into the net after a beautiful deflection 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 final quarter.

But with some spirited play, strong passing, impeccable defence and relentless attacks on goal, the United

team fought back to demand a five all draw.

Under 12 girls The under-12 girls faced off 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 Moffat stepped in for her debut as goalkeeper and made an impressive number of saves.

Corowa dominated most of the attacking play during the first 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 effort 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 effectively through Ava Ryan and Maddy Benton and outstanding defensive efforts from Georgia Sessions, Eliza Taylor and Zara Hamilton.

In the end, the Dragons left the field with smiles on their faces, despite the final score of 8-0.

Coaches award went to Teale Moffat.

Division 2 fixture 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.

Wangaratta City faces a daunting challenge against Wodonga Diamonds

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 first half at a very high tempo while we were asleep,” he said.

“They scored in the first 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 final 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 first 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 POSSIBLY IN: Justin Cirillo is a chance to return to the Devils senior men’s side for the clash Cirillo to the side. against Wodonga Diamonds this weekend.

PHOTOS: Kat De Naps Photography

Page 36 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, May 30, 2025

wangarattachronicle.com.au

MATCH PREVIEWS

ROUND

��

O&K club disappointed to be victims of third racial abuse incident in 12 months

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.

Top three on the horizon for Bright

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 fixture.

It’s the second time the rivals have gone head-to head this season following a stellar performance by both teams in round five 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 first game against Bonnie Doon saw Emily Nightingale score 46 goals for the second week in a row.

With both teams sitting within the top five, 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 five 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 first 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 first 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 first ball intercepts, a few more turnovers just to get us that start we’re after so [the game’s] not as tight,” Grimes said.

HIGH ACCURACY: Bright’s Emily Nightingale shooting ability will be an integral part of the team’s performance this weekend.

PHOTO: United Bright Football Netball Club “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 first 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-

OVENS & KING ROUND �� MATCHES SATURDAY, MAY ��

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 off 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.

LEAGUE BYE

JUNE �

“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?

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.

ROUND �� MATCHES SATURDAY, JUNE ��

BONNIE DOON VS BRIGHT

WHOROULY VS MOYHU

BENALLA VS TARRAWINGEE

KING VALLEY VS GOORAMBAT

GRETA VS MILAWA

Bonnie Doon Recreation Reserve

Whorouly Recreation Reserve

Friendlies Oval, Benalla

King Valley Recreation Reserve

Greta Recreation Reserve

North Wangaratta - BYE

GOORAMBAT vs BRIGHT KING VALLEY vs NTH WANGARATTA MOYHU vs GRETA BENALLA vs BONNIE DOON MILAWA vs TARRAWINGEE WHOROULY � BYE

wangarattachronicle.com.au

MATCH PREVIEWS

ROUND

�

THE CHRONICLE, Friday, May 30, 2025 - Page 37

LEGENDS OF PREMIERSHIPS PAST TO SPUR HAWKS ON AGAINST ROOS

No shortage of motivation for Rovers

By SHANE DOUTHIE

ON paper, the clash between top of the table Wangaratta Rovers against ninthplaced Corowa-Rutherglen seems a lop-sided affair.

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 off the field, 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 after 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

ROVERS LEGENDS: Players from the Wangaratta Rovers’ 1975 Ovens and Murray senior premiership team will join other champion Hawks teams this weekend for a day of celebration and reminiscing. Pictured on the Rovers balcony reliving some of their 1975 triumph were (from left) Eddie Flynn, Barry Cook, Neville Pollard, Ross Gardner and Andrew Scott.

PHOTO: Shane Douthie 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 reflecting on those flag victories.

BIG IN: JUSTIN LEWIS IS HOPEFUL OF TAKING THE FIELD AGAINST COROWA-RUTHERGLEN.

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 fifth-

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.

Rovers relish netball’s toughest challenge

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 effecting 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.

WANGARATTA ROVERS V COROWA-RUTHERGLEN

Saturday 31st May

PAST PLAYERS / PLAYER SPONSORS / PREMIERSHIP REUNION DAY DINNER

$20 Join us on Socials

PER HEAD

Dinner & Awards Night (upstairs after the game). | Catered by Railyard Wangaratta American BBQ Dinner - pulled pork, beef brisket, smoked Kransy’s, Mac ‘n’ Cheese & Salads.

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 fifth-placed Lavington needing a win to stay in touch with the top five.

The Magpies pushed undefeated North Albury all the way in their last match and should be ready for the challenge.

“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 confident 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

Coming up...

Saturday 7th June

STEPPING UP: Wangaratta Rovers young gun Sophia Pasquali will play a key role in this weekend’s clash with CorowaRutherglen.

PHOTO: Marc Bongers

GO ROVERS!

By SHANE DOUTHIE

Wangaratta Magpies v Wodonga Raiders Wang Magpies Junior Development Day Free Entry to all WDFL & Wang Netball Association Players Parents and Families Come Along for a Game Day experience at Wang Magpies wangmagpiesfnc

Wangaratta Magpies Football & Netball Club

Footy2025 20

BUSINESS

Page 38 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, May 30, 2025

wangarattachronicle.com.au

AFL

TIPPING

Round 12

THURSDAY MAY 29 Brisbane Lions vs. Essendon

Brisbane Lions Collingwood Gold Coast Greater Western Sydney Adelaide Melbourne Geelong

TIPSTER

FRIDAY MAY 30 Collingwood vs. Hawthorn (M.C.G.)

SATURDAY MAY 31 Gold Coast vs. Fremantle (People First Stadium)

GWS Giants vs. Richmond

Brisbane Lions Collingwood Gold Coast Greater Western Sydney Adelaide St Kilda Geelong

Chris Doyle

(The Gabba)

Last week: 7

TIPSTER

Brisbane Lions Collingwood Gold Coast Greater Western Sydney Sydney Melbourne Geelong

Max Webster

TIPSTER

Neil Barassi

KILARA GROUP

WEBSTERS ELECTRICAL & LIGHTING

OAK FM 101.3

03 5722 1996 27 Baker Street

03 5722 1492 15 Norton St

(03) 5722 1569 104 Murdoch Rd

www.kilara.com.au

www.websterselectricalvic.com.au/electrical

TOTAL: 70

Brisbane Lions Collingwood Gold Coast Greater Western Sydney Sydney Melbourne Geelong

TIPSTER

30 Ovens St, Wangaratta P: 03 5722 9600 W: travelncruise.com.au

Last week: 7

TOTAL: 68

Brisbane Lions Collingwood Gold Coast Greater Western Sydney Adelaide Melbourne Geelong

Scott Moss-Holland

TIPSTER

www.oakfm.com.au

Last week: 7

TOTAL: 67

Brisbane Lions Collingwood Gold Coast Greater Western Sydney Adelaide Melbourne Geelong

Helen Haines MP

TIPSTER

Mark Flynn

JCS INDUSTRIES PTY LTD

HELEN HAINES MP

FLYNN’S INLAND SURF CO

03 5721 5456 49 Rowan Street

03 5721 7077 117 Murphy St

(03) 5722 1533 41 Murphy St

(ENGIE Stadium)

Sydney vs. Adelaide (S.C.G.)

SUNDAY JUNE 1 Melbourne vs. St Kilda (TIO Stadium)

West Coast vs. Geelong

Last week: 7

www.jcsindustries.com.au

TOTAL: 67

Brisbane Lions Collingwood Gold Coast Greater Western Sydney Adelaide Melbourne Geelong

TIPSTER

LADDER

After

ROUND 11

Collingwood ............................36 Brisbane Lions .......................34 Gold Coast ...............................32 Adelaide ....................................28 Geelong .....................................28 Hawthorn .................................28 W Bulldogs ...............................24 GWS Giants .............................24 Fremantle ................................24 Essendon..................................24 Melbourne ...............................20 Carlton....................................... 16 Sydney ....................................... 16 St Kilda ...................................... 16 Port Adelaide .......................... 16 Richmond................................. 12 Nth Melbourne..........................8 West Coast .................................4

Last week: 7

Brisbane Lions Collingwood Gold Coast Greater Western Sydney Adelaide Melbourne Geelong

Bailey Zimmermann

TIPSTER

Mario Antonello AFONSO BUILDING SOLUTIONS

03 5721 3123 63-67 Appin St

03 5723 0109 37 Rowan St

03 5721 5330 74 Murphy St

TOTAL: 66

www.wangarattachronicle.com.au

Last week: 6

TOTAL: 66

Brisbane Lions Hawthorn Gold Coast Greater Western Sydney Adelaide Melbourne Geelong

Matthew Elliott

TIPSTER

Last week: 7

www.afonso.com.au

TOTAL: 65

Brisbane Lions Collingwood Gold Coast Greater Western Sydney Sydney Melbourne Geelong

Hayden Murray

TIPSTER

Ringo

AFL NORTH EAST BORDER

MC GREGOR MACHINERY

WANGARATTA CLUB

03 5722 1993 Wangaratta Sports Development Centre, Wangaratta Showgrounds

03 5722 9933 285 Tone Rd

5721 3711 4 Victoria Pde Laneway Bistro

www.aflneb.com.au

Last week: 7

TOTAL: 65

Brisbane Lions Collingwood Gold Coast Greater Western Sydney Adelaide Melbourne Geelong

Last week: 6

TOTAL: 66

WANGARATTA CHRONICLE

Brisbane Lions Collingwood Gold Coast Greater Western Sydney Adelaide Melbourne Geelong

TIPSTER

TIPSTER

www.flynnsinlandsurf.com.au

Last week: 7

WEST SIDE TAVERN

www.thewestside.com.au

TIPSTER

TOTAL: 67

Brisbane Lions Collingwood Gold Coast Greater Western Sydney Adelaide Melbourne Geelong

Riley Grimshaw

(Optus Stadium)

www.helenhaines.org

Last week: 6

www.mcgregor-machinery.com.au

Last week: 7

TOTAL: 63

Brisbane Lions Collingwood Gold Coast Greater Western Sydney Adelaide Melbourne Geelong

Chandan Kulkarni

TIPSTER

www.wangarattaclub.com.au

Last week: 6

TOTAL: 63

Brisbane Lions Collingwood Gold Coast Greater Western Sydney Adelaide Melbourne Geelong

Kay Reid

TIPSTER

Luke Stanton

AFL NORTH EAST BORDER

TRAVEL & CRUISE NORTH EAST

OLD GARAGE BARBER

03 57221992 Wangaratta Sports Development Centre, Wangaratta Showgrounds

5722 9600 30 Ovens St

0488 394 835 58 Norton St @oldgarage.barber

www.aflneb.com.au

TOTAL: 62

Last week: 8

www.travelcruise.com.au

TOTAL: 60

Last week: 6

TOTAL: 60

wangarattachronicle.com.au

Footy2025 20

THE CHRONICLE, Friday, May 30, 2025 - Page 39

BUSINESS

AFL

TIPPING Round Round Round 12 Round 12

12

Brisbane Lions Collingwood Gold Coast Greater Western Sydney Adelaide Melbourne Geelong

Brisbane Lions Collingwood Gold Coast Greater Western Sydney Adelaide Melbourne Geelong

TIPSTER

Elise Stewart

Mystery Tipper

TIPSTER

Beth Watson PINSENT HOTEL

03 5721 6233 7 Chisholm St PO Box 182

03 5721 2183 20-22 Reid St

TOTAL: 59

Brisbane Lions Collingwood Gold Coast Greater Western Sydney Adelaide Melbourne Geelong

TIPSTER

TIPSTER

Brisbane Lions Hawthorn Gold Coast Greater Western Sydney Adelaide Melbourne Geelong

JOHNSONSMME

johnsonsmme.com.au

Last week: 7

30 Ovens St, Wangaratta P: 03 5722 9600 W: travelncruise.com.au

Last week: 7

TOTAL: 59

Essendon Hawthorn Fremantle Richmond Adelaide St Kilda Geelong

Nathan de Vries

Last week: 5

www.pinsenthotel.com.au

TOTAL: 59

Essendon Hawthorn Fremantle Richmond Adelaide St Kilda Geelong

TIPSTER

Shayne Gannon

TIPSTER

Lillian & Nino

WANGARATTA CHRONICLE

TOWN ‘N’ COUNTRY TAVERN

WANGARATTA MAZDA

03 5723 0116 37 Rowan St

03 5722 1788 174-182 Greta Rd

03 5721 5677 10?14 Templeton St LMCT 121188

www.wangarattachronicle.com.au

Last week: 7

TOTAL: 58

www.townandcountrytavern.com

Last week: 6

TOTAL: 55

www.wangarattamazda.com.au

Last week: 5

TOTAL: 50

12 Round 12 LEADERBOARD

Chris Doyle ........................70 Max Webster ................... 68 Neil Barassi .......................67 Scott Moss-Holland ......67 Helen Haines MP.............67 Mark Flynn ....................... 66 Riley Grimshaw .............. 66 Bailey Zimmermann ..... 66 Mario Antonello ............. 65 Matthew Elliott .............. 65 Hayden Murray .............. 63 Ringo................................... 63 Chandan Kulkarni .......... 62 Kay Reid ............................. 60 Luke Stanton ................... 60 Elise Stewart ....................59 Mystery Tipper ................59 Beth Watson ....................59 Nathan de Vries ............. 58 Shayne Gannon .............. 55 Lillian & Nino ................... 50

THE

FOOTY PULSE THE WEEKLY FOOTY WRAP UP

Free Club Umpire Session

– Build Confidence, Support Your Club

WANGARATTA ALL GIRLS AUSKICK & SUPERKICK – REGISTER TODAY!

FUNDING OPPORTUNITY

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.

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.

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.

• 5 weeks of footy fun for just $20 (use code 59EF012D)

CDS Victoria offers community football clubs a fantastic opportunity to raise funds while making a positive impact on the environment. Clubs interested in fundraising can register to become a donation partner and receive payments from members.

Clubs will receive a $75 incentive per participant, so it’s a win-win for volunteers and local teams.

• Special visit from a Richmond AFLW player during the AFLW Community Camp!

→ Register via the QR code!

• Skill-building, teamwork and new friendships

Starts: Wednesday, 28 May Time: 4:00 – 5:00 PM Location: WJ Findlay Oval, Wangaratta Don’t miss out – spots are limited!

Scan the QR Code to Register Now!

- Container Deposit Scheme!

For more information and to register as a donation partner, simply scan the QR code. 📱

Page 40 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, May 30, 2025

wangarattachronicle.com.au

Dragons celebrate 118 years

ªxHRKILCy872010z

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.

PHOTO: Shane Douthie

D-Day for Demons

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.

Despite injuries to Mick Batey, Josh Owen and Jordan Baker-Swain crippling their key defensive stocks in

BY BAILEY ZIMMERMANN bzimmermann@ nemedia.com.au

recent weeks, their resume’ boasts key wins against Bright and Goorambat to have them knocking on first place prior to the King’s Birthday bye.

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 midfield rotation which has quickly become one of the best in the league.

Recruit Aaron Law has added a touch of class

Next THURSDAY...

5th JUNE 7:30AM TIL 5:30PM

through the middle while Jared Lea has brought the muscle since his move to the midfield 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 midfielder, 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

NEW PRODUCTS - DISPLAYS - SPECIALIST REPS ON SITE PRODUCT DEMONSTRATIONS - FREE SAUSAGE SIZZLE

NLY

L O O T LE A ON

26 Tone Rd Wangaratta 03 5722 2288

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

YO E DA

S