Wangaratta Chronicle 300623

NEW BEGINNINGS

DEMOLITION works have been ongoing this week to clear the Wesley flats site for an $18m community housing development.

Solar, liquid nitrogen bid

Development plan to refuel trucks, decarbonise transport industry pp,py

STEVE KELLY skelly@ nemedia.com.au

manufacturer is designing its future fuel cell trucks to include liquid hydrogen on board, which will give the vehicles a 1000km-plus range.

While it’s still a few years away, the rollout of these vehicles would synchronise well with the establishment of the environmentally sustainable Winton facility, with potential for dozens of fuel cell trucks able to be refueled at the

site in four years’ time.

Bart Simes, Lochard Energy general manager of energy development, said the company has been conducting studies in the region over the last 18 months, and as part of the engagement process, recently carried out a 6000-brochure letterbox drop to households and businesses in the region.

“The site is 4km from the Sydney Road and

Winton-Glenrowan Road interchange that crosses the Hume Freeway,” he said.

“The proposed access for trucks going north or south is via that interchange and that’s about a 4km stretch of that b-double road to get to the site.

“Widening the road by about 300 metres at the entrance will allow trucks to move into slip lanes and turn without disrupting the flow of traffic.”

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Full story page 5

PHOTO: Bailey Zimmermann

Officer says his high-speed response saved motorists from crash fate

A BENALLA Highway Patrol officer who drove at more than 200kph to respond to a crash involving another police officer has said his actions saved at least 77 other motorists from being involved in a serious crash.

The 55-year-old Leading Senior Constable has fought back against allegations his driving was dangerous, after prosecuting lawyers were forced to withdraw speeding allegations having been unable to prove the accused had driven at an alleged speed of 230kph.

During a four-day hearing at Wangaratta Magistrates

Court this week, Magistrate Victoria Campbell was tasked with deciding whether the accused, a Victoria Police goldlicence holder, had acted dangerously when he undertook urgent duties driving between Violet Town and Euroa on March 21, 2021.

The accused’s licence entitled him to drive at unlimited speeds when completing police duties.

In-car bodycam footage, as well as a record of interview undertaken by the accused later in 2021, were also broadcast to the court.

During the in-car footage, the accused was alleged to

have overtaken some 77 vehicles along the Hume Freeway in a 20km span, following a call from a police unit which had been rear-ended on the freeway near Euroa.

While driving past a stationary traffic camera, in-car footage showed the accused point to the camera while driving at more than 200kph, and state “I don’t care about the speed”.

The accused fought back tears as he explained his thought process from the witness stand on Thursday, noting he had immediately considered a worst-case scenario as he drove to be the first re-

sponding officer at the scene of the collision.

He said through the limited information he had been relayed, he thought he may have been attending a fatal or serious injury crash.

“(We) came as soon as a colleague came up on the radio saying he’d been hit,” he said.

He noted the Hume Freeway’s use of wire rope barriers acted “like having the bumpers up in ten-pin bowling” and said it was vital he arrive at the crash scene as soon as possible to secure the site.

He said he had not been considering the exact speed he was travelling at, but had

adjusted regularly to ensure he was passing vehicles safely.

“I didn’t care about the specific number,” he said.

“I was doing, in my opinion, everything I’ve been trained to do.

“(It’s) 77 people I’ve at least assisted with not crashing into the same pile-up as the cars that were already there.”

Crown prosecutor Marcel White said the accused had shown a “conscious lack of intellectual curiosity towards his own speed”, and said it was an obligation of all drivers to be aware of their speed at all times.

He said the accused had

failed to accurately assess the risk his driving posed to other motorists on the freeway, a statement opposed by defence counsel Colin Mandy SC.

“This man has been driving this car 500km a day – he knows how fast is safe, because he has perfect control of the car and his abilities,” he said.

“The uncertainties made it necessary for him to get there as quickly as possible.

“All he was doing was his job, and doing it as he was trained to do.”

Ms Campbell adjourned the matter to return for decision next week.

Neighbour queries council on proximity of servo to homes

BY STEVE KELLY skelly@ nemedia.com.au

CONCERNS have been raised by a local resident that the proximity of a proposed 7-Eleven 8-pump service station at the corner of Wangaratta’s Ryley Street and Perry streets could be too close to nearby properties and a childcare centre.

Under the Wangaratta Planning Scheme, while it doesn’t explicitly state how far service stations must be from sensitive land uses such as a residential address and childcare centres, a nearby neighbour to the proposed development has queried the proximity of the intended fuel pumps.

Meldrum Street resident Jeremy Kraybill asked council at the June meeting to consider amending the Wangaratta Planning Scheme to increase the minimum Industrial 1 Zone separation distance between service stations and listed sensitive uses from 30m to 100m for stations operating up to 16 hours a day and from 30m to 200m for those operating more than 16 hours a day.

“I would also request that council include properties under any heritage overlay NRZ zone or that childcare centres in a list of zones that require a minimum of separation distances of 200m from service stations,” Mr Kraybill said.

“I would also like to request that council considers amending the Wangaratta Planning Scheme to implicitly apply the minimum land use separation for service stations… to proposed service station developments

in any zone, not just in Industrial 1 Zone.”

Mr Kraybill noted that the service station is proposed for a site less than 30 metres from the directly abutting residential homes and less than 100 metres from an active childcare centre (Good Start Learning Wangaratta on Moore Street).

“A clear guideline regarding land use separation for service stations is needed given the application distance of 100 metres to 200 metres are consistent with

the current research of effects on emissions of service stations on surrounding areas where elevated benzene and other BTEX (Benzene, Toluene, Ethylbenzene and Xylenes) emissions have been shown to be detectable of up to at least 160m from service stations,” he said.

Council director - sustainability and culture Stephen Swart confirmed that the application did not have a planning strategy which would inform a future planning scheme amendment

request to the minister for planning.

He explained that the merits of the application are yet to be considered and an assessment will have a range of information including the application, the relevant content of the Wangaratta Planning Scheme, community submissions and referral authority responses and relevant sections of the Planning and Environment Act.

Mr Kraybill also queried why there were only a small

number of notifications about the service station which was initially distributed to only 10 properties and noted there were already 22 submissions to the application.

Mr Swart replied that council undertook a review and made a decision to change and expand the notice, write letters to more neighbours and place an advert in the Wangaratta Chronicle, and provide more time for submissions to be made.

“When it comes to planning permit applications, the way notice is given to some extent is up to a judgment call by the officer who looks after the application,” he said.

“In this case initially it (distribution of notices) was narrow because of those judgement calls made at that point but we had an opportunity to review how we give notice and expanded that immediately.”

Plans include eight fuel pumps, 7-Eleven pay station and convenience store with a floor area of 203m2, 11 parking bays including a disabled space, one loading bay, and signage which will be illuminated.

Submissions to the application close today.

DEAD AGAINST: Resident Jeremy Kraybill (fourth from left), supported by other nearby residents, is against plans of a service station at the corner of Ryley and Perry streets as he believes it’s too close to surrounding homes.

PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

$1.99m to attract, upskill farm industry’s next generation

GOTAFE has received $1.99m as part of the Victorian Government’s Agriculture TAFE and Training Funding.

The funding will support education aimed at ensuring students have the skills required for a career in agriculture – addressing the need for additional workers in the Goulburn-Ovens region.

The Victorian Skills Plan 2022-2023 has identified that the agriculture, forestry and fishing industry will need an additional 3000 workers over the next three years, with the

regional workforce forecast to grow by an additional 564 employees by 2025.

Key existing GOTAFE agriculture and horticulture courses will be supported by the funding, while 10 new short courses will be created, including in Aboriginal practices and land management and farm safety.

Jenny Wilson, board member at GOTAFE and chief executive officer at Murray Dairy, said the funding will add significant value to both students and industry.

“This funding will help upskill existing workers in the agriculture and horticulture industries, while also helping to attract diverse cohorts to undertake new and enhanced training,” she said.

“We’re looking forward to working with education institutes and industry to deliver training to ensure the future workforce is equipped with the required experience and skills.”

Rob Hall, coordinator land and animals at GOTAFE, said the funding will not only support industry, but

will also provide a range of benefits to staff and students.

“Getting this funding is an incredible boost in morale for our staff - it improves their confidence and ability, while also providing them opportunities for additional training and upskilling,” Mr Hall said.

“The funding will create synergies between traditional land and farm management, so the courses have cultural relevance.

“There’s a skill shortage within industry and we’ve struggled with this, which is why I think a

multi-layered approach including secondary school connections and communitybased elements is so important.”

Farm safety will also be a key focus of the funding.

This is aimed at reducing the rate of workplace deaths in the agriculture industry, with approximately 14 per cent of annual fatalities attributed to agriculture workers despite it only making up about two per cent of Victoria’s workforce.

“On-farm safety is an ongoing focus of GOTAFE’s

Scented gum trees and understorey removed at Wangaratta Railway Station

THE Cusack Street pedestrian bridge over the North East rail line at Wangaratta station permanently closed yesterday and works began on the removal of four scented gum trees and understorey on the Norton Street side of the railway line.

IS

These Inland Rail works coincide with the closure of the North East rail line this Monday from 3am to 9am.

Pedestrian access through Wangaratta Station Precinct will be via the Docker Street footbridge until the pedestrian under-

pass is built for service.

During July and August works will include the removal of Cusack Street pedestrian footbridge; drainage works; relocation and connection of water, power and sewer services in the rail corridor; and excavation works in readiness for

(03) 5721 5500 WEBBLEGAL.COM.AU

construction of the new pedestrian underpass in September.

For any concerns or enquiries call 1800 929 244 or email victoriaprojects@ artc.com.au or visit the ARTC shopfront at 48a Norton Street on Thursdays between 10am and 2pm.

education delivery,” Ms Wilson said.

“It’s a tragic reality that farmers are over-represented in workplace deaths – that’s why it’s so important that farmers are given adequate training and support.

“A new worker induction program and a short course safety refresher for current workers will improve onfarm safety, while providing opportunities for both new and existing workers.”

For any further questions, please phone 1300 GOTAFE (468 233) Mon-Fri 9am-5pm or visit the GOTAFE website.

Animal welfare still front of mind for local council

RURAL City of Wangaratta council will assess the viability of establishing its own pound facility in Wangaratta after its transfer of pound services contract to Albury Animal Welfare Centre, Albury Council expires in two years time.

As reported in Monday’s Wangaratta Chronicle, council’s pound services contract was recently awarded to Albury Council, effective July 31, following what council said was a fair and rigorous tender process.

Mayor Dean Rees said the decision to go to a new provider, and not renew the contract with the RSPCA, would save the rural city more than $500,000 over the next two years.

In delivering pound services, council said its objective is to ensure the safety of domestic animals within the municipality and reunite them with their owners swiftly, safely and in a cost-effective way.

Rural city CEO Brendan McGrath said council maintains its ongoing commitment to the welfare of domestic animals and support of pet ownership.

“The primary aim of council’s provision of pound services for our community, is the safe return of as many animals as possible to their owners within 24 hours,” Mr McGrath said.

Council is encouraging pet owners within the municipality

to ensure their pets are microchipped and their pet registration details are up to date.

“This is the fastest and easiest way to reunite pets with their owners within the first 24 hours of an animal coming into our care,” Mr McGrath said.

“If animals are registered and microchipped, we will in fact often return them to owners without them being impounded at all, either in Wangaratta or Albury, which does not occur under the current arrangements.”

Mr McGrath said council will care for lost domestic animals for the first 24 hours in a holding facility in Wangaratta that meets Animal Victoria standards, while efforts are made to return the pets to their rightful owners.

‘’Community members whose animals are taken to Albury after this period, are encouraged to contact council and can arrange for the return of their animals through the animal transport service that will run on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays each week,” he said.

Pet owners wishing to collect their animals outside of these delivery days may go directly to the Albury Animal Welfare Centre should they choose.

Council said it strongly supports the RSPCA in their renewed focus on their core business – the prevention of the cruelty to animals.

TREE REMOVAL: Workers concentrating on the removal of a large scented gum tree at Wangaratta Railway Station.

PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

Green plan to refuel trucks, decarbonise transport industry

■ From page 1

Mr Simes said the technology was a long way off being able to support larger b-double trucks and the industry will start off with heavy rigid trucks and single articulated trailer trucks with fuel cells.

He said as the technology matures there might be the emergence of b-doubles as fuel cell trucks.

“Although this site is being designed to accommodate b-double trucks, I don’t expect you will see that this decade and you might not see it next decade,” he said.

There are several reasons why Winton is the preferred site for the refueling station including high solar radiance, the company is in discussions with North East Water to look at scope of recycling waste water, and the location lies halfway between Melbourne and Tarcutta trailer exchange.

Mr Simes said they are in the process of wrapping the studies up so they have a thorough assessment of the site and the region.

“We can present that to the Victorian Government as part of the planning application,” he said.

“In parallel to those studies we do a lot of stakeholder engagement with community groups, government, council and we have

just finished a 6000 brochure letterbox drop to households and businesses in this region.

“We want to keep people up to speed and invite their comments and input.

“Once it is submitted to government in July, the plan will be to let the public see the project in its entirety and ask any questions and provide any feedback they wish.”

Mr Simes guessed that this process would take between two to six months and upon successful planning approval there is still a lot of development work that needs to

continue before there is a final investment decision.

This could be at least two years away and to build a project of this scale is about two years onto that timeframe as well.

“If the right policy setting and market incentives exist, this could be providing clean fuel in fairly large volumes, not only to this site but also to other refueling locations by about 2027, when it would start to make a significant difference into decarbonising transport in Australia,” Mr Simes said.

“Producing hydrogen and dispensing it for vehicles has been around for some time in California, and emerging in Europe, Japan and China.

“This project is one of the more unique ones in terms of its potential size and its potential flexibility.”

Based on demand, this fuel could be carted from the Winton facility to other depots with the storage and transport of liquid hydrogen proving easier than gas.

Mr SImes said the energy density of liquid hydrogen is much higher than gas and carting it in bulk to other locations is simpler and more cost effective.

These future facilities are intended to supply renewable hydrogen to heavy-vehicle transport operators, bus companies, fuel retailers (for both light and heavy vehicles), and those wishing to decarbonise their materials handling operations.

H2REFUEL has the potential to displace up to 24 million litres of diesel per annum, consequently abating about 65,000 CO2 emissions each year.

Mr Simes does not envisage that the development of Inland Rail will in any way interfere with the scope of this project.

Wangaratta Piano Comp proved a success for all

ACCORDING to author Maria Cristina Mena, “the piano keys are black and white but they sound like a million colours in your mind” and that was the experience for the audience at the Wangaratta Performing Arts and Convention Centre when the 2023 Wangaratta Piano Competition was held last Friday.

The event was presented by the Wangaratta Festival of Dance, thanks to the support of the Rural City of Wangaratta through a community grant.

A total of 49 piano students from across the region, ranging from six to 16 years, competed in the inaugural event, showcasing 115 individual performances in the genres of classical, popular, jazz/boogie/blues, musical/movie theme, and their own choice.

Wangaratta Festival of Dance president Terri Dillow said the arts centre was the perfect

BY ANITA McPHERSON amcpherson@ nemedia.com.au

venue to hold the event, where young musicians had the opportunity to perform on the Steinway; a world-renowned piano known for its distinctive, warm, longer-sustaining tone and greater dynamic range.

She said the competition was also very fortunate to have had Helena Kernaghan adjudicate the event.

Based in Albury, Ms Kernaghan has established herself as one of the most versatile and accomplished pianists and musicians of recent times, having performed throughout Australia and internationally.

Also a passionate music educator, she works with students

across a variety of formats, nurturing the next generation of up-and-coming talent.

Ms Kernaghan said she was very impressed with the organisation of the event, commending the committee for its decision to run the competition in age groups.

She said she found the process of adjudication challenging given the high standard of the young competitors, but thoroughly enjoyed the atmosphere and the experience.

“The team who coordinated the competition were knowledgeable, organised and incorporated technology in a really effective way for the adjudicator, so in terms of how smoothly it ran, it was 10 out of 10,” Ms Kernaghan said.

“They attracted kids from all across the region and standard was really high, particularly in

the 10 to 14 year age bracketwith some really strong young pianists in that age group.

“The piano is a treasure for the town, so it was a wonderful opportunity for them to be able to get up on stage and perform on the Steinway.”

Receiving Adjudicator Encouragement Awards at the competition were Saeesha Golhar (under 10 years), Bella Goodman (11 to 12 years), and Isaac Aiton (over 12 years).

Ms Dillow said it was a positive and encouraging event, giving young pianists the chance to perform and to learn valuable skills about competing.

“The committee hopes to run more in the future,” she said.

“We will have a debrief and seek feedback from competitors, their parents and piano teachers to see how the competition may look moving forward.”

COMMENDED: Receiving Adjudicator Encouragement Awards at the 2023 Wangaratta Piano Competition in their age categories were (from left) Saeesha Golhar (under 10 years), Bella Goodman (11 to 12 years), and Isaac Aiton (over 12 years).

FUTURE REFUELING OPTIONS: A truck refueling station powered by a solar energy facility would have the capacity to power up to 150 vehicles with liquid hydrogen fuel per day. The target is to have the major refueling centre operational by 2027.

Wesley flats demolished to clear site for $18m community housing development

By STEVE KELLY

THE demolition of the former Wesley flats on Templeton Street began this week to make way for an $18 million community housing development.

Kristie Looney, general manager housing and property at Uniting Vic.Tas, said preliminary site works are now underway on the 44-unit community housing development which will provide much needed accommodation in Wangaratta.

“The $18 million development is part of Uniting Vic.Tas’s commitment to improving access to community and social housing across Victoria,” she said.

“Delivered in partnership with Homes Victoria and part of the Victorian Government’s $5.3 billion Big Housing Build, these homes will provide housing for up to 100 people, creating jobs and attracting funding to the

Wangaratta region.”

The intent of the development is to help fill the need, delivering high-quality, modern, architecturally designed units which will be suitable for singles, families and older people.

“People can only live a safe and dignified life if they can afford life’s essentials, free from constant worry about how they will keep a roof over their heads and food on their table,” Ms Looney said.

“This redevelopment of an existing low-cost housing site will replace ageing buildings, which are no longer fit for purpose.

“The houses have been sustainably designed by award-winning Jackson Clements Burrows Architects (JCB) and will be designed to integrate with the local environment and reflect the character and heritage of surrounding buildings.

Uniting Vic.Tas are in the process of appointing a builder after which they will have more details around the construction schedule.

Bruck Textiles trio to stand trial

THREE former Bruck Textiles executives charged with entering into an agreement to withhold or reduce access to employee entitlements have been committed to stand trial before the County Court.

Former chair Philip Bart, chief executive officer Geoffrey Parker and chief financial officer Ron Johnson entered not guilty pleas to the allegations on Wednesday,

Wangaratta

after Magistrate Robert Stary found sufficient evidence was available for the matter to be heard before a jury.

The trio was formally charged by the Australian Security and Investments Commission (ASIC) early last year, nearly eight years after the company’s sale for $1 to Mr Parker and Mr Johnson’s new business, Australian Textile Mills (ATM) in July 2014.

A Melbourne Magistrates

2023

Court committal hearing heard some 22 days’ worth of evidence over almost two months, with prosecuting lawyer Nicholas T Robinson KC alleging the accused trio was aware its decision to sell the company could leave staff unable to access entitlements.

Representing Mr Bart, Neil J Clelland KC had labelled the ASIC investigation “fundamentally flawed”, and had questioned ASIC’s decision

not to offer the accused trio the opportunity to provide a record of interview until after court proceedings had already commenced last year. By the time a trial commences, a decade will have likely passed since Bruck Textiles’ sale.

In committing the charges to the County Court, Mr Stary noted there had been an “unacceptable and incomprehensible delay in the matters pro-

ceeding to committal”.

He said witnesses who provided evidence before the committal had suffered from an “egregious lapse in time in which witnesses are asked to remember, independently of their notes, what happened during that period”.

He said the case had experienced a “complete absence of continuity” and included a three to four year period where the ASIC investigation

had remained dormant.

However, he rejected the defence’s claim that unpaid employee entitlements, which totaled up to $3.48m for 58 Wangaratta-based employees who were made redundant, could have been left to be paid by a third-party entitlements guarantee scheme. A directions hearing before the matter proceeds to the County Court was set for August 9.

BUILDING BRICKS: With demolition of the Wesley Flats in Templeton Street this week, Uniting Vic.Tas are in the process of appointing a builder to undertake an $18m community housing development on the site.

PHOTO: Bailey Zimmermann

Fijian workers welcomed

ST JOHN’S Respect has welcomed 11 new personal care assistants (PCA) from Fiji as part of a new initiative.

According to St John’ Respect general manager, Margaret Winter, the new initiative is a part of the Pacific Labour Scheme, which Respect has joined.

The scheme offers opportunities for people from 10 Pacific Island nations to work in Australia for up to four years in rural areas in industries such as aged care, that are experiencing workforce shortages.

“The new initiative will further strengthen our team and enhance our ability to continue to provide exceptional care to our residents, as well as the Wangaratta community,” Ms Winter said.

The 11 PCA staff were officially welcomed on Monday, June 26 at a morning tea where many of the staff and residents were in attendance.

Each of the new Fijian team members had a Certificate III in Individual Support and undertook around two weeks of training before officially commencing work.

The training program for the new workers not only taught them how to care for the residents, but also about cultural differences in Australia.

BY CHLOE JAENICKE cjaenicke@ nemedia.com.au

“Our current orientation program has been redeveloped to cover a number of different subjects due to the cultural diversity and to ensure our mission and values are well presented in a way to meet cultural differences,” Ms Winter said.

“This also included how the bus system works to enable them to be independent and introducing them to various businesses.

“Along with this as the majority of the staff have religious affiliations, we are introducing them to their respective church.”

The 11 PCA staff are currently being accommodated onsite to allow them to integrate fully at the retirement village.

Many of the Fijian workers said they had limited experience caring for people outside their families and that everyone so far has been welcoming.

“It’s been an interesting journey, we’ve already been so overwhelmed by the community, the staff here, and the management and we’ve felt so welcomed,” said Fijian Mereti Raitoma.

“We’re looking forward to the experience and getting to explore Wangaratta, but more importantly the experience working here,” said fellow worker Adi Ana Siganisucu.

One of the biggest challenges they have had to overcome is adapting to the cold weather, however the thing many of them wanted to experience the most is seeing snow.

“When they left Fiji it was a nice 30 degrees and when they arrived it was 10

degrees, just a bit of a difference,” Ms Winter said.

“We have spoken about what they would like to experience whilst here in Australia and a number of them said snow, I am sure this is something that can arranged in the future.”

Ms Winter said while it has been a challenge to get everything ready in time for the new staff, it is an exciting opportunity for St John’s Respect to foster a culture of diversity and inclusivity as well

Ready to book your stay in nature parks?

BOOKINGS for some of Victoria’s most popular campsites will open for the 2023-24 season next week.

From stunning beachside retreats to the cool of the mountains, dense forests to near-desert, bookings in parks across Victoria for dates from September 2023 - October 6, 2024 will be open from Tuesday, July 4.

As part of an upgraded online booking system, Parks Victoria has removed ballots from the last remaining balloted campground in the state –Tidal River Campground at Wilsons Promontory National Park. This means campers can now book every bookable campground across Victoria instantly with no need to wait to hear if a ballot application was successful or not.

as enhance their care to residents for the next four years.

“The team at St John’s worked tirelessly to achieve this, so as a team we celebrate this initiative coming into fruition,” she said.

“Each of our new colleagues brings with them a unique set of skills and experiences, and their addition to our team will play a significant role in supporting our St John’s community, including all of our current team members.”

Bookings open at 11am on Tuesday, July 4 for Wilsons Promontory campsites (including Tidal River).

Bookings at Lake Catani (Mount Buffalo National Park) campgrounds open on Thursday, July 6, and for the - overnight hike/journey campsites from Falls to Hotham Alpine Crossing on July 7.

For a full schedule and more information and instructions on how to book got to the Parks Victoria website at: https://www. parks.vic.gov.au/where-tostay/booking-information.

EMBRACING DIVERSITY: Elonoa Nailivalia, Annie Brown, Adilaite Namatesere, Eseta Lato, Martina Colaudolu, Salote Seni, Jennifer Naqanui, Mereti, Raitoma, Rosalia Karolina and Adi Ana Siganisucu were excited to start work at St John’s Respect for the next four years.

“Worst nightmare”: teenage girl dies after car collides with truck

By DARREN CHAITMAN

A 15-YEAR OLD girl died after an alleged stolen car she was travelling in, driven by a 14-year-old female, collided with a truck in Locksley on Wednesday morning.

The front passenger of the vehicle died on impact at the scene, while the driver and another passenger, a 12-yearold male, are under police guard in the Royal Children’s Hospital in Melbourne, where they were taken with non-life-threatening injuries.

Police said it is believed the 14-year-old female driver was travelling north in a grey Holden Captiva wagon along the Hume Freeway near Alexandersons Road when she collided with the back of a truck travelling in

the same direction.

The 45-year-old truck driver from Tabilk was not injured and assisted police with their enquiries.

Acting Superintendent Michael Layton said the wagon was taken from a driveway near Wangaratta before midnight on Tuesday.

“What we’ve been able to ascertain is that the three youths were known to each other, from the North East of Victoria, in and around that Wangaratta region,” Acting Superintendent Layton told reporters at the scene.

He said police believed the youths were friends, but further details, including where they had travelled and what were they doing, were not yet known and will form part of an ongoing investigation.

“[It is] a life-changing event, unfortunately, for the family of the deceased 15-year-old girl, and also for the families of the other two youths in this incident, where they’re coming to terms with the injuries and the consequences of what’s occurred,” Acting Superintendent Layton said.

“It’s every parent’s worst nightmare, who might be dealing with rebellious teens and young people.

“This is just a terribly tragic and confronting thing to have occurred.”

He said pending the police investigation, which is around the parameters of “dangerous driving causing death”, the 14-year-old driver will face consequences appropriate to her age and the circumstances.

Jailed after high speed chase

A NORTH East man who led police on a chase through Killawarra earlier this year before attempting to evade officers by swimming across a creek has been jailed for nine months.

Bernard Smith, 35, received the sentence at Wangaratta Magistrates Court this week, having pleaded guilty to charges including theft of a motor vehicle, dangerous driving while pursued by police, failure to stop and criminal damage.

He was arrested on March 9, following an extended chase along Wangaratta-Yarrawonga Road and into paddocks and bushland after reaching almost 150kph in a stolen black Mercedes-Benz.

Having evaded police stop sticks at least three times, Mr Smith’s vehicle - which had been stolen from a Melbourne address eight days prior by an unknown individual – was eventually slowed by police,

after upwards of $24,000 of damage to paddock fencing in the Killawarra area.

Mr Smith attempted to escape by swimming across Boundary Creek, but was later apprehended by police.

On Monday, defence counsel Nancy Battiato urged Magistrate Ian Watkins to release her client from Fulham prison to allow him to engage with a corrections order, before returning

for sentence at a later date.

Mr Watkins said the proposed course would be “inappropriate” due to the nature of what he described as “top-end offending”.

He said Mr Smith had been “determined to avoid apprehension” and had subsequently risked his own life and the lives of other road users.

Mr Smith had previously told police he had received the keys to the vehicle from a man

named Tim earlier on March 9, but Mr Watkins labelled the notion Mr Smith did not know the vehicle was stolen as “fanciful” and “scuttlebutt”.

At an earlier plea hearing, lawyers had expressed Mr Smith’s partner was pregnant and expecting a child before the end of the year, and Mr Watkins said he hoped the birth of Mr Smith’s first child would result in a change in his behaviour.

“I’m uncertain whether you’ll be present for the birth of that child, and if not, you’ll only have yourself to blame,” he said.

“I hope it’s the catalyst for you to change your offending ways.”

Mr Watkins sentenced Mr Smith to a nine-month prison term, of which 109 days has already been served, and banned him from driving for 18 months.

ROAD CLOSED: A stretch of the Hume Freeway from Avenel to further north past Locksley was closed for much of Wednesday following the incident. INSET: Acting Superintendent Michael Laytons aid the incident was “every parent’s worst nightmare”. PHOTOS: Darren Chaitman

Vital investment in next gen farming

THE future of the region’s agricultural sector received a needed boost with funding into greater education and training for current and aspiring agricultural workers.

GOTAFE received $1.99m of funding as a part of the Victorian Government’s Agriculture TAFE and Training Funding program.

The funding addresses a stark need for additional workers in agriculture across the region, as it is predicted an additional 3000 workers will be needed in the next three years to match a rising workforce forecast in the agriculture, forestry and fishing industry.

Ensuring the next generation of the region’s farmers receive the best education available to them will boost the quality of the industry’s future and with the availability of a higher level of education to aspiring agricultural workers, it will only entice more students to take agricultural pathways.

Farm safety is an ongoing focus of the industry, with approximately 14 per cent of annual fatalities attributed to agriculture workers despite it only making up about two per cent of Victoria’s workforce.

Studies in other states including Western Australia reported a “risk-taking culture” among farmers which ultimately led to more workplace accidents.

Teaching adequate safety, training and support for aspiring agricultural workers with funding such as this can make a potentially lifesaving difference in someone’s agricultural aspirations.

GOTAFE will also be enabled to improve their ability to deliver such training with greater opportunities for teaching with the additional courses to be created.

The funding will have the chance to deliver a boost to the industry with greater training in safety and agriculture which hopefully attracts a diverse range of cohorts into agriculture in the North East.

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

FACEBOOK users this week commented on our weekly poll which asked users: ‘Should we celebrate the Kelly Gang’s siege of Glenrowan?’

• Charles Branstom: The Ghost of Edward “Ned: Kelly the first Victorian born man to be hanged and by a corrupt system, still haunts the Old Melbourne Jail.

• Ned Kelly: The True Story: If anyone should be celebrated its Thomas Curnow the hostage in the Ann Jones

Inn who learned about the train derailment and the police massacre the criminal Kelly gang had planned, who then tricked Ned Kelly into letting him go so he could stop the train, save everyone on board and enable police to bring the Gangs reign of terror to an end.

• Tim Lycett: I just read the article quoting Mr Suta and have to say that his comments are verging on the ridiculous if not completely unproven. It has never been proven that Fitzpatrick ever made any

Significant tree to be removed by the ARTC

RECENT editions of the Wangaratta Chronicle have notified readers of the rapidly advancing ARTC schedule to remove the railway footbridges and transform our railway station.

“Vegetation clearing will take place to accommodate the works..” ( June 16) is a vague and inadequate description of what will be the destruction of several trees and shrubs.

One in particular I would class as a significant tree; a majestic Lemon Scented Gum which stands erect and towering at the station’s southern entrance.

Its branches and shade hang over the historic Cusack Street footbridge.

Every week dozens of people walk over this footbridge which is immediately next to this impressive and attractive tree.

In November 1973 this Eucalyptus tree was planted by the chairman of the Victorian Railways Board, Mr A.G. Gibbs, to commemorate 100 years of trains travelling on the Melbourne to Wodonga track.

Fifty years later it stands in perfect health but we are watching its final few days.

In close proximity to this gum are small trees of the same species, sapling trees which self seeded from the parent tree.

It is time to say goodbye.

CassandraPollock,Wangaratta

Have a heart council, save RSPCA pound

THERE is enough sadness and cruelty for animals already without Wangaratta council effectively closing the RSPCA pound.

It has been there for many years and what a shameful council that they would want to save money instead of animals.

I don’t know what the council people were thinking but it certainly isn’t about caring for animals.

Please, have a heart for animals and change your decision.

MareeParkinson,Wangaratta

No public consultation over pound closure

I HAVE just read with dismay the council is looking at closing the RSPCA Shelter in Wangaratta. I cannot believe it.

No community consultation at all.

This needs to be overturned immediately and something must be done to stop it.

Those council members involved need to be removed. It’s a total lack of respect for the community

JoeIrvine,Wangaratta

NOTE: Comments as they appear online, without corrections.

advance towards Kate Kelly. In fact, this allegation never even surfaced until proposed third hand in a newspaper nearly twelve months later. The notion that the Kelly gang murdered the police in self-defence is nothing short of victim blaming.

• Bellini Homer: Tim Lycett You speak of hard evidence and facts based on solid historical research. Yet produce none of it in support of your assertions.

• Bobby Boss: Why are we celebrating the life of

Cold Blooded Murderers.

• Timothy Simpson: The siege should not be celebrated as it meant the end of the only people prepared to stand up to the corrupt regime at the time. Not to forget the innocent ‘hostages’ killed by reckless and lawless troopers’ gunfire. 143 Years after the great man’s death we still have bent coppers, corrupt Politicians and the rich getting richer at the expense of the poor. Ned must weep.

Losing the pound is an appalling decision

I TOO, like Julie Reid (Chronicle letters, Wednesday, June 28), am profoundly disappointed with the decision by our local government to disrespect the work of the RSPCA, a registered charity, a fact which our mayor seems not to understand.

POLL RESULTS

GLENROWAN SIEGE

Should we celebrate the Kelly Gang’s siege of Glenrowan?

votes to yesterdaynoon 101 Yes 39 No 62

THIS WEEK

Should ratepayers fund a local animal ‘pound?’

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A GOOD YARN: Ruth Wolfel and Leigh Southwell from the Evening Spinners group helped with the selection of exhibits for the Wangaratta Handweavers and Spinners 50th anniversary exhibition being held today and tomorrow at the Milawa Community Hall.

All are welcome to the special event which includes displays, demonstrations and sales, open from 10am until 3pm.

To adopt a pet, collect a lost pet, and maintain a good society where we act humanely towards our animals, we will need to travel interstate.

The last time I looked it was the responsibility of local government to run a local pound for local animals.

What will we outsource next?

ClaireRussell,Wangaratta ■ MORE LETTERS PAGE 10

WE welcome your letters to the Editor. Priority is given to typed/emailed letters under 250 words. Every letter must have your full name, address and a daytime phone contact number supplied for verification purposes. Any letter may be edited for reasons of space, content or legibility.

Email edit.chronicle@nemedia.com.au

Post Letters to the Editor, 37 Rowan St, Wangaratta 3677

PHOTO: Marion Stewart

FACEBOOK user this week commented on Wangaratta’s animal pound service being set to shift to Albury.

• Jack Carruthers:This will lead to pet dumping.

• Tanya Gibson: Surely this is a joke. Ridiculous decision.

• Paul Carrick: Especially bad for elderly residents, people in financial hardship and those who rely on public transport. How does a 93 year old pensioner recover her dog from Albury and at what cost? Also reduces opportunity for

volunteers, often the very young people Council spends money on in other ways. This decision needs to be reversed.

• Julie Reid: Incredibly sad for all the animals who are just numbers. Poor decision.

• Kevin Adams: Utterly ridiculous and irresponsible. Not good enough!

• Belinda Blom: How is a two hour round trip saving council money to deliver an animal an hour from home? How are those without transport or those who work supposed to

NOTE: Comments as they appear online, without corrections.

get their animals back within pound operating hours? People have forgotten who works for who here.

• David Marsh: This is a very poor decision by wangaratta council. This is something that should have some consultation with pet owners. I do think a partition should be taken up or a large number of pet owners should attend the next session/ meeting of council to discuss this.

• Paul Crabb: Council management try to further

TWITTER users this week tweeted about Geoff Duryea’s retirement from horse racing, results of local jockeys and the derby last weekend.

Andrew Bensley @AndrewBensley

distance itself from another of its actual duties .Far to much of our rates being wasted on frivolous ego stroking projects, while real responsibility are neglected

• Toni Booker: So are they going to stop collecting pet registration fees? It’s one thing to justify paying this ridiculous fee when you hope that it helps support the local pound, but if the fee is not going to that, well they can get stuffed then.

• Leslie Matthews: Pity about the animals though.

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Tweet

One of racing’s good guys… Well played Geoff @ DuryeaRacing From a young bloke growing up in Wangaratta, Duryea is one name I’ve always followed.

wangarattahighschool

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We all wish Year 11 student Zoe Baguley (centre) a safe and enjoyable journey as heads off to walk the Kokoda Track these school holidays.

Wangaratta Turf Club @Wangarattatc Congrats to our local trainers & connections collecting over the weekend! GATEAUX at @ BallTurfClub for @BenBrisbourne. MIGHTY FEAT at @ Narranderaraces for Scott McIntosh. KING OF THE BOUNTY at @Narranderaraces for Ledger Racing.

RSN927am @RSN927

One act affair the local derby in the @omfnl match at the Wangaratta Showgrounds.

Magpies 19-13-127

Rovers 6-8-44

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

Madeline from Fawnlee Studios with handmade bilby earrings at the Wangaratta Country Women’s Association sale.

Asher Wolf @Asher_Wolf

Please consider wisely the 7-Eleven proposal

RE: Ryley Street Debacle

I WRITE with concern regarding the proposed service station and 7-Eleven Store planned for 22-28 Ryley Street.

I urge all council staff, no matter what their portfolio, to express their opinion on this proposal.

Council staff are paid from residents’ rates to work for the best interest of residents and ratepayers, of which their priority is and should be the safety, health, and wellbeing of residents and ratepayers.

I urge these hardworking people to voice their opinion to the decisionmakers in this proposal, which completely ignores the safety and welfare of ratepayers and residents.

I also plead with all councillors who have been elected and salaries paid by ratepayers and residents to prioritise the safety, health, and welfare of those who elected them to this responsible position.

If it gets to the stage where they have to vote on this proposal, I plead with them to prioritise the safety, health and welfare of this great city of ours, and not the selfish monetary power of big business who obviously have no regard for the safety of our community, as is obvious from their planning application.

We have had a hardworking, harmonious, trustworthy council for several years now.

I fully trust they will make the right decision in this important matter.

Peter Mudge, Wangaratta

NECMA’s climate project praiseworthy

THE Embedding Climate Adaptation in Agriculture (ECAiA) project made for interesting reading (“Local farmers lead climate change adjustment”, Chronicle, June 26).

A survey by Farmers for Climate Action found that farmers overwhelmingly want to improve their carbon footprint while still being profitable, but they need more help.

It seems that the North East Catchment Management Authority survey found similar results.

So, it was pleasing to see that the ECAiA project provides a spatial tool with nine components:

1) Climate explorer;

2) Water balance explorer;

3) Cropping explorer;

4) Horticulture explorer;

5) Viticulture explorer;

6) Dairy explorer;

7) Beef/sheep grazing explorer;

8) Forestry explorer;

9) Local Government explorer.

Clearly farmers need time to become familiar with this new technology.

And as they say, time is money.

But times, as well as climate, are changing, and where there’s a will there’s a way.

Full credit to the NECMA for leading the way.

Ray Peck, Hawthorn

FACEBOOK users this week commented on the precinct works at Wangaratta Railway Station with major steps to be taken agead of the permanent removal of the Cusack Street footbridge.

• Leslie Matthews: It’s an old bridge way past it’s use by date. If you haven’t been able to get over it before now then its too late, it’s time to move on.

• Gill Skalic: So sad it was a great childhood activity to stand on the

bridge and view everything around especially the steam trains

• Kevin Adams: Obliterating history.

• Helen Senior: Don’t know why it couldn’t have been lifted and left as heritage. Didn’t have to be used

• Alec Cassar: Should invest some more money into fixing the roads, stop making this town “pretty” work on the functionality of the roads! Hannah Jaggers

• Cindy Knight: Alec

I REFER to a letter by John Suta of Wangaratta (Chronicle, June 23) relating to the Kelly family, which contains numerous myths and falsehoods.

Ellen Kelly was charged with being an accessory to the attempted murder and was found guilty by a jury of 12 men from her area. She was not charged with attempted murder.

Constable Fitzpatrick did not approach Kate Kelly.

Kate made that story up 10 months after the event.

William Williamson and Ned Kelly, who were there, confirmed that Fitzpatrick did not approach Kate.

When interviewed by a journalist after his capture, Kelly stated the following.

“No that is a foolish story. If he or any other policeman tried to take liberties with my sister, Victoria would not hold him” (The Age, August 9th, 1880).

Constable Fitzpatrick was dismissed.

He was not dismissed for being a “perjurer and a drunkard”.

Two hundred of the residents of Lancefield initiated a petition to have him reinstated.

It was unsuccessful, on two occasions.

He was dismissed without being given a reason.

At Stringybark Creek, Constables Lonigan and Scanlan were murdered by Ned Kelly, with neither having a weapon in hand.

The police had two sets of handcuffs to secure their prisoners.

The gang chased Sgt Kelly through the bush for 800 metres, wounding him, and Ned Kelly eventually murdered him by shooting him at point-blank range with a 12-gauge shotgun while he was standing erect.

Kelly knew he had five young children under 10, and his wife was pregnant.

It was not self-defence.

Kelly then robbed his corpse of a pocket watch.

Years later, the Kellys offered this watch to Sgt Kennedy’s widow, but a ransom was required.

Bridget Kennedy refused.

A publican later paid the ransom, and

NOTE: Comments as they appear online, without corrections.

Cassar Have you driven down Murdoch, Greta rd lately I’ve been waiting to be pulled over for drink driving cause you swerving all over the roads to miss the holes

• Kayla Jose: Yep doing a new overpass thingo. Was there when they came and talked about it. They’re also doing one near Coles I believe Facebook users also commented on the official retirement of teacher Liz Maher, who has been teaching in Catholic schools

the watch was returned.

The Republic of North East Victoria is a myth.

Ned Kelly never mentioned a republic.

in Wangaratta for 38 years.

• Helen Jolly Lyons: Congratulations on your retirement you will be missed. Many students have had the pleasure of your dedication and expertise. X

• Lisa Campagna: Congratulations Liz Maher, an amazing teacher, enjoy retirement.

• Keens Benno: Congratulations Liz Maher on an amazing career. Best wishes. xo

• Suzie Quarters: Congratulations Liz x

The Royal Commission of 1881 found that the police acted appropriately in their dealings with the Kelly family.

The information above comes from historical documents and professional historians with PhDs, who are experts in the Kelly story.

Brad Williams, Adelaide

WANDI (the dingo) is a wonder; his story is remarkable.

It is a good thing that the kids of Wandiligong school have close ties with him and are educated about environmental issues.

But that education should include all evidence-based sides of the debate.

All dingoes are members of the Canid family and therefore are dogs, even if the name is changed from Canid familiarus to Canid Dingo.

If living alongside people, like Wandi, like those that lived alongside Aboriginal people, or like our pets, then it is at least tamed, if not fully domesticated.

If living in the bush, it is a wild dog that can and does breed with other dogs (if the pack doesn’t kill them first).

A 2019 article co-authored by Dr Cairns states that 46 per cent of dingo samples across Australia have no other dog ancestry while in South East Australia (Victoria) it is 1-4 per cent.

That seems to prove that cross-breeding is not a fallacy.

The dingo’s arrival is estimated between 3-5000 years ago by boat.

That they have become part of the ecosystem does not mean they are “native” or indigenous, unless we also consider that, in a few thousand years, feral cats might also be considered “native”.

Being an apex predator simply means it has reached the top of the food chain; the dingo is a hunter that has no predators and nothing to control its numbers except human intervention.

Research published in the Royal Society Open Science journal (2017) demonstrates that dingo predation does threaten native species.

Other research indicates it may have been

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a major contributor to the extinction of the thylacine on mainland Australia.

And, uncontrolled wild dog populations are a well-documented problem for sheep farmers. Tell the kids the story, but tell them all the story.

Roxanne Bodsworth, Eldorado

AUSTRALIA’S peak body for public health applauds the ‘You Win Some, You Lose More’ final report from the Parliamentary inquiry into online gambling ads and its recommendations for a public health approach to tackling the ads scourge.

It’s an excellent document that determines the extent of the problem, cites evidence including from people with lived experience and numerous other experts, and lists 31 recommendations.

We welcome its public health approach which includes restrictions, regulations and levies, education campaigns, more independent research into gambling and associated harms, and treatment and support programs across all jurisdictions.

It’s essential that the Australian Government acts now, despite the fightback which the gambling industry and its associated partners will mount.

The Public Health Association of Australia (PHAA) appreciates that the committee has accepted the case that online advertising causes multiple preventable harms, but we argue that three years to phase-in restrictions is too long to wait.

Adjunct Professor Terry Slevin, Public Health Association of Australia CEO

WE welcome your letters to the Editor. Priority is given to typed/emailed letters under 250 words. Every letter must have your full name, address and a daytime phone contact number supplied for verification purposes. Any letter may be edited for reasons of space, content or legibility. Email edit.chronicle@nemedia.com.au

SUPPORTING YOUR CARTAGE NEEDS ALL YEAR ROUND

Kelly heroic legend is a myth

A Dingo by any other name is still a dog

Gambling ads inquiry shows action needed

Community Update

Welcome to Eileen O’Toole, who has joined NHW as Director of Nursing at Illoura. Eileen is an experienced clinical and aged care nurse specialising in Gerontology and Palliative Care. She has spent many years leading care teams with a focus on Person Centred Care within Residential Aged Care.

Special thanks to outgoing Board Director Martin Hession as he completes his tenure with NHW. Legislation prescribes directors can serve a maximum term of 9 years. Martin has made an enormous contribution to our health service over these 9 years.

Board Vice Chair 2014-2015

Finance Committee Chair 2014-2022

Finance Committee Deputy Chair 2022-2023

Project Control Group Deputy Chair 2017-2018

Project Control Group Chair 2018-2023

Audit and Risk Committee Deputy Chair 2019-2023

Winter brings an increase in illness circulating in the community and it can sometimes be difficult to get a timely appointment with your GP or local clinic. We want to remind our community of some statewide services available to all Victorians for non-life-threatening emergencies.

Thanks to the generosity of our local community, our Vital Signs Appeal has raised $158,400. This enables us to replace 44 vital signs monitors across our servicesequipment that provides essential monitoring for many of our patients. Your help was vital!

There are lots of ways you can support our health servicewhether through volunteering some time or providing financial support. To find out more phone our Giving Team on 5722 5297 or email volunteers@nhw.org.au.

The Victorian Virtual Emergency Department (VVED) can connect you with emergency doctors and nurses via a video consultation from the comfort of your home. To connect visit www.vved.org.au/patients

Nurse-on-Call is available via phone on 1300 60 60 24, putting you directly in touch with a registered nurse who can provide professional health advice around the clock.

Always remember, if it's life-threatening or an emergency, phone 000 or present to our Emergency Department.

Pictured above (L-R) Former Board Chair Jonathan Green, current Board Chair Alison Maclean, Martin Hession, former Board Chair Brendan Schutt, CEO Libby Fifis

GETTING CREATIVE: Anita Laurence (left) and Rhonda Diffey (right) were among those taking the opportunity to learn from an expert during a workshop held by artist Mary Barron (centre) at the Wangaratta Art Gallery this week. The session on bobbin lacemaking was held to complement the 2023 Wangaratta Contemporary Textile Award and exhibition. Mary will be in Gallery 2 today from 10am until 3pm with all welcome to visit. A closing reception will be held tomorrow at 2pm with free tickets available at wangarattaartgallery.com.au.

HRCLS, Gateway Health celebrate seven years of HALO project

By SHANE DOUTHIE

THE ‘Holistic Outreach and Legal Assistance’ (HALO) project is a health justice partnership (HJP) between Hume Riverina Community Legal Service (HRCLS) and Gateway Health which is celebrating seven years of delivering important services to local communities.

The HALO project enables lawyers from HRCLS to deliver free legal advice appointments on-site at Gateway Health in Wodonga, Wangaratta and Myrtleford, and to work collaboratively with health professionals to meet client needs.

Clients are able to access important legal support, family violence specialist agencies and other supports in the one building/location in a place where they feel safe and are supported.

Gateway Health general manager mental health and

wellbeing, Alana Pund, said clients in regional areas may feel more comfortable accessing legal advice anonymously at a health centre, where they are not seen walking into the community legal centre.

“The project allows disadvantaged people and communities to access important legal services that they might not otherwise access,” Ms Pund said.

In the project’s seventh year of operation it is also focused on training and empowering Gateway Health staff to better understand key legal issues such as family law, credit and debt and family violence legal issues, as well as measuring outcomes of the project in conjunction with Health Justice Australia.

Recent funding has led to an increased focus on clients suffering poor mental health.

Project manager and

HRCLS managing lawyer, Deborah Fisher, said that it has been a privilege to work with Gateway Health for the past seven years and to be part of the development of a well-integrated HJP meeting many of the intersecting legal and non-legal issues our clients face.

“We know that legal problems don’t exist in a vacuum,” Ms Fisher said.

“It is important that we work together to identify how we can best support people and help them navigate what is often a complex and overwhelming system.

“We know that mental health, family violence, homelessness and other issues can impact on people’s legal problems and their capacity to address them.

“Gateway Health are leaders in this space and are to be commended for their ongoing commitment to HALO and to the transformative work of partnership.”

MAKING A DIFFERENCE: Deborah Fisher (project manager and Hume Riverina Community Legal Service managing lawyer), Alana Pund (Gateway Health General manager mental health and wellbeing) and Karlee Hirt (lawyer) celebrated the HALO Project’s continued benefit going into its seventh year.

All Seasons Pest

Termites are bad news for homeowners as they can infest homes without detection. By the time you notice their presence, the damage is already done. Termites nest underground and they often go totally undetected. Without proper termite control they can cause devastating timber damage to areas including oorboards, joist and even the frames supporting a house.

The key to success in eradication of termites is to focus on and eliminate the colony. We recommend using the termite management and baiting system: Exterra, to create a unique termite interception zone around the perimeter of your valuable home. Safe for you and your pets, Exterra has been used in more than 40,000 Australian homes.

When it comes to termite control and eradication don’t wait until its too late, call us today

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PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

Mega reunion for former St Joseph, Champagnat and Galen students

By CHLOE JAENICKE

A REUNION is being planned in Wangaratta this November for students who attended Champagnat, St Joseph’s or Galen College from 1970 to 1979.

Fran Chapman is organising the reunion and said an annual gathering with the Galen class of 1977 has been the catalyst to host a bigger event.

“The class of ’77 has an annual dinner and some of the people in that year level were also boarders and we thought it would be good to get a broader cross section of those students together,” she said.

“Really it’s just to reconnect and connect and give people a chance to perhaps catch up with some old friends.”

The reunion is aimed at those who were in year 11 or 12 at the three schools in the 1970s.

“In those years many students would have left to take on trades or go to another school but it’s for them as well, it’s not just for students who went all the way through to year 12,” Ms Chapman said.

She said she has a comprehensive list of people from her year level and the class of ‘78 but is looking for the contacts of others who would like to attend.

The reunion will take place on Saturday, November 11 at Oaks Wangaratta for dinner and formal invitations will be sent out in August.

For more information email chapman15@bigpond.com.

Minister for Indigenous Australians to visit Indi for forum on the Voice

MINISTER for Indigenous Australians, Linda Burney, will visit Wodonga to take part in a community forum about the upcoming referendum seeking to recognise Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the First Peoples of Australia in the Constitution, through an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice.

To be held on Tuesday, July 25 at The Cube in Wo-

donga, the forum will also include Indi Independent federal MP Helen Haines and Yes23 Campaign director Dean Parkin.

The forum seeks to give people the chance to find out more about the Voice, why it’s needed and how it will improve lives.

It is open to all community members, is free to attend, and will also be streamed online.

“I am delighted Minister Linda Burney is visiting us in Wodonga, sharing her knowledge and experience as we approach this referendum,” Dr Haines said.

“In the lead up to the referendum, I want to help people feel fully informed as they make their decision and that is why I invited Minister Burney and Dean Parkin to Indi, so people can hear from them first hand.”

Dr Haines has engaged with the Uluru Statement from the Heart and the Voice to Parliament proposal for many years.

“In the last Parliament, I was a member of Minister for Indigenous Australians Parliamentary Working Group, working with former Minister Ken Wyatt,” she said.

“Many people in Indi also participated in the consulta-

tion process steered by Professor Marcia Langton and Professor Tom Calma.

“I have had many conversations with people across Indi about the Voice.

“These have been respectful and thoughtful conversations and I hope we can all approach this debate with an open mind.

“I support this simple yet powerful change to the Constitution to consult Aborigi-

nal and Torres Strait Islander Australians on issues that affect them.

“I believe this will create practical change in improving the lives of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.”

The forum will be held on Tuesday, July 25, 7.30-9pm at the Cube, Wodonga or via livestream.

Tickets: https://events.humanitix.com/indi.

REUNITING OLD FRIENDS: Fran Chapman with the Galen College class of 1977 who were the inspiration to host a larger reunion for students who attended Galen, Champagnat and St Joseph’s in the 1970s.

PHOTO: Simon Attard, Elevated Media

Exploring the past and the future through technology

By CHLOE JAENICKE

HAVE you ever wondered what future landscapes will look like in 30 years or what it was like to be a part of the Eldorado gold rush around 150 years ago?

Students from Milawa and Carraragarmungee primary schools have, and they answered these questions last week with the launch of their multimedia 3D creative writing platforms, Parallel Wilds and Wild Gold, along with creative director Craig Dent. Students and teachers alike were excited to present the projects at the Wangaratta Performing Arts and Convention Centre on June 23.

Carraragarmungee Primary School principal, Marie DePrada, said both projects taught students valuable skills.

She said it was a chance to integrate a lot of curriculum together, such as art, visual, digital technology, writing, reading the research.

The Parallel Wilds project saw years four to five students from both schools create speculative universes on the future of the wilderness in their region in 2050.

The project was funded by Regional Arts Victoria as well as the Foundation for Rural Regional Renewal (FRR).

Milawa Primary School principal, Bron Wright, said it was great to see students so involved in the project.

“It moved beyond just filming something on our iPads to really immerse students around technology and integrate that forward thinking around sustainability and the ecology of our current environment,” she said.

Students also got the opportunity to use drones and 360 degree cameras to create the project.

Ms De Prada said the project also helped students be conscious of the environment in a practical way, with plants and trees to be planted locally.

Students Ashley Goyne and Josh Canning from Milawa Primary School said they had a great time working on the project.

“I enjoyed writing out the names for the four people and designing the characters and using the 3D drones,” Josh said.

“It was pretty cool seeing our ideas being made into a movie,” Ashley said.

Year’s three to six students from Carraragarmungee Primary School created Wild Gold, which explored the history of gold in Eldorado.

This project was funded by Creative Victoria as a Creative

Learning Partnership.

Students used similar technologies to that in Parallel Wilds and got the chance to visit sites in Eldorado, including the dredge and Eldorado Museum.

“It was just a way of encapsulating the history of gold out in Eldorado that wouldn’t be just for our school but in-

corporate people from the community and be able to be shared back among the community,” Ms DePrada said.

Students Sadie Piye and Stanley Richardson from Carragarmungee Primary School said they enjoyed creating the artwork and using the drones to create the project.

Police are investigating attempted armed robbery

POLICE are searching for four offenders following an attempted armed robbery in Wodonga on June 27.

It is understood a 43-yearold Thurgoona man was walking back to his car on Vermont Street, when he was approached by four people.

The group threatened him with a knife, demanding cash and property.

The victim escaped uninjured and ran back to Wodonga Hospital on Vermont Street for help.

The four offenders fled emptyhanded and were last seen running through Martin Park.

Anyone who witnessed the incident or information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report online at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.

Moyhu Bowls Club AGM

“I did some research on the history of Eldorado and then I created the characters and their backstories,” Sadie said.

“I enjoyed writing the script and using the big 360 camera and a drone to take pictures of different areas to create the stories,” Stanley said.

MOYHU Bowls Club will hold its annual general meeting and a morning tea this Sunday at 10am with all welcome to attend. Come and find out more about the community club with new members (and all ages) welcome, at the Moyhu Bowls Club in Byrne Street, Moyhu.

INTERACTIVE PROJECTS: Milawa Primary School principal Bron Wright, students Stanley Richardson, Josh Canning, Sadie Piye, Ashley Goyne, Liam Bennett and Carragarmungee Primary School principal Marie DePrada were all excited for the launch of Parallel Wilds and Wild Gold projects.

Johnsons MME thrilled to announce new directors

JOHNSONS MME is thrilled to announce the appointment of Aidan Jenkin and Chad Rigoni as new directors.

As accounting service providers in the Albury-Wodonga and Wangaratta regions, Johnson MME aspire to foster local talent.

Managing director of Johnsons MME, Paul Goonan, said this strategic decision demonstrated the company’s belief in the vast potential of young professionals who choose to build successful careers in regional areas rather than heading to capital cities.

“Their extensive experience, unwavering commitment, and innovative approach will undoubtedly contribute to the continued growth and success of our firm,” he said.

“We are proud to showcase the incredible talent that thrives right here in our community.

“Mr Jenkin has made significant contributions to the business services and tax team at Johnsons MME.

“His strong relationship management skills and strong communication abilities have helped him under-

stand and meet the needs of clients effectively.

“Mr Jenkin’s client-driven approach and unwavering dedication to providing excellent service have earned him a place in the leadership team.”

Originally from Myrtleford, Mr Rigoni started at Johnson MME in 2011 after completing university at Albury Wodonga.

Mr Goonan said Mr Rigoni brings a wealth of experience and a deep passion for building strong and lasting client relationships.

“Recognising the importance of tailored advice and support, Mr Rigoni is committed to helping clients achieve their financial and family objectives,” he said.

“Mr Rigoni’s expertise in interpreting data and effectively communicating its implications for clients and their unique situations will further enhance Johnsons MME’s service offerings.”

Johnsons MME invites the local community to join them in congratulating Mr Jenkin and Mr Rigoni on their promotions.

The company looks forward to the exciting developments and future achievements that lie ahead.

NEWLY CROWNED: Aidan Jenkin and Chad Rigoni have been announced as new directors at Johnson MME.

WHAT’S ON THIS WEEKEND Wangaratta Handweavers and Spinners exhibition

LOCAL group Wangaratta Handweavers and Spinners is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year with a two-day exhibition at the Milawa Community Hall today and tomorrow.

The exhibition features a range of handcrafts including beautiful scarves and other winter apparel, as well as decorative items and artworks demonstrating a range of techniques, with many for sale. There will also be a retrospective display of items crafted in the early years of the long-running group.

It will be open from 10am until 3pm and entry is free with refreshments available.

Dolly Parton Experience at The Vine Hotel

THE Dolly Parton Experience featuring Vanessa and the Jealous Guys will perform a matinee show on Sunday, July 2 at The Vine Hotel in Wangaratta.

The eight-piece band will play the hits of the superstar singer, songwriter and musician, who took Nashville by storm in the sixties and whose career in country and pop has spanned generations.

With the show starting at 2pm (lunch available prior), tickets are available by visiting thevinehotel.net.au.

Lacemaking workshops at the art gallery

WANGARATTA Art Gallery is hosting a residency led by acclaimed artist Mary Elizabeth Barron in Gallery Two, as part of the 2023 Wangaratta Contemporary Textile Award.

Barron’s artistic practice primarily revolves around sewing, papermaking, basketry and bobbin lacemaking, with a particular focus on utilising waste materials and addressing themes of family, women’s work, memory and environmental concerns.

To find out more visit www. wangarattaartgallery.com.au or see the artist in residence in Gallery 2 until tomorrow.

IMAGINATIVE INTERPRETATION: Linda D’Agostino’s latest exhibition (shown in the process of being installed) showcases her characteristic style while also exploring different mediums.

Whimsical approach abounds in Linda’s latest exhibition

By ANITA MCPHERSON

AN exhibition of distinctively-styled artworks which celebrate their subjects in thoughtful layers of texture, tone and colour, is on display at the Art Gallery on Ovens.

Created by resident artist, Linda D’Agostino, the exhibition includes more than 20 mostly-new works in mediums of acrylic, watercolour, ink and pencil.

While Linda is renowned for her whimsical landscape paintings in muted tones which capture the beauty of the local countryside throughout the seasons, she has also ventured into somewhat new territory, using mediums of lino-printing and dry point in varying scales.

She said while they may involve very different techniques, the resulting artworks retain her characteristic style.

“A couple of years ago I bought myself a printing press and I’ve been experimenting with it, and also working with smaller illustrations and portraiture, as well as landscapes,” she explained.

One of the highlights is a lino-print of Linda’s late grandmother, inspired by a collection of slides Linda inherited, which captured the intrepid traveller’s adventures in the 1960s.

“There was a photo of her sitting in a café somewhere overseas and I loved it - and I immediately wanted to make it into a lino-print,” said Linda.

“It may be a bit different from the rest of the collection, but it’s part of what I’m enjoying doing right now - making little portraits.”

Those who are familiar with Linda’s landscapes, often featuring striking bare trees and exquisitely shaped build-

Wangaratta Contemporary Textile Award

THE eighth Wangaratta Contemporary Textile Award and exhibition is open in Gallery One at the Wangaratta Art Gallery. The Wangaratta Contemporary Textile Award is a biennial event, presented in partnership with the Kyamba Foundation, which celebrates the diversity and strength of Australian textile art.

The 2023 exhibition includes 29 works, in what is a representation of excellence from practitioners across the nation, and it will be on display until August 20.

Wangaratta community market

THE Wangaratta community market runs every Sunday at Moore Than Swimming, located at 11-13 Mason Street in Wangaratta, from 8am until 1pm. There is a wide range of stalls to browse and refreshments available.

ings, will be pleased to know they still feature.

“Whenever I drive to Bright or the King Valley I always look at the green hills and the interesting trees, and it’s what I think about when I’m back and painting them,” she said.

“They come from my imagination and my memory - and those bare trees have become my signature.”

Linda said seeing all the new works framed and ready to go has been exciting, as she and fellow artists from the community gallery began the process of hanging earlier this week.

Artworks by Linda D’Agostino is now open and can be seen Mondays, Thursdays and Fridays from 10am until 4pm and on Saturdays and Sundays from 10am until 2pm until July 10, and entry is free.

Stalls are available for $25 each (must have own market stall insurance) with more information via the market’s Facebook page.

Interwoven exhibition at Benalla Art Gallery

AN new exhibition which draws together artworks from north Queensland and North East Victorian artists to tell stories of community, environment, and connection to Country, will open at the Benalla Art Gallery tonight.

Interwoven: Stories of Country from North and South includes a new work woven from natural fibres by Benallabased artist and proud local elder, Aunty Desiree Walker.

Aunty Desiree’s work includes a largescale eel trap, woven using traditional methods she reinterprets through her art practice, and passes on to future generations through workshops. The exhibition will officially launch today at 6pm on Friday 30 June with Aunty Desiree Walker to present the First Mondays artist talk at 10am on Monday, July 3.

PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

BEVERIDGE TO ALBURY TRANCHE 1 WORKS

Construction activities July – August 2023

We are constructing Inland Rail in Victoria.

Easter n Grey Kangaroo Eastern - a l w a ys w o r t h a l o o k - always worth a look

By IAN DAVIDSON and CHRIS TZAROS

THE Eastern Grey Kangaroo is arguably the most familiar and well-known Australian animal in our region.

They can cover up to 6m in one hoping bound and may maintain a speed of 20kph for long periods of time.

As a Kangaroo’s speed increases, so does the distance of each hop and for short periods, they can hop at speeds of up to 65kph.

Eastern Grey Kangaroos can be up to 1.5m tall and weigh almost 60kg.

Their fur is grey brown in colour.

Their underparts are pale grey or whitish.

They eat grasses, herbs and occasionally shrubs.

Their food is well chewed before it is swallowed and digested.

They mainly feed in areas where grasses are most plentiful and are found in eastern Australia from Tasmania to Cape York Peninsula.

Areas with patches of trees for cover near open grassland provide perfect habitat for Eastern Grey Kangaroos.

During the day, they generally rest in the shade and sheltered areas, emerging in the evenings and early morning into open areas to graze.

They are uncommon in dense forests where grass is not readily available.

Eastern Grey Kangaroos can breed throughout the year; however, most births occur during summer or in response to favorable conditions.

Joeys are born 36 days after conception and are about the length of a jellybean.

They crawl into their mother’s pouch where they suckle until around nine months of age.

Joeys remain with their mother for approximately 18 months after leaving the pouch.

Females may have a second joey in their pouch while still tending young at foot.

Eastern Grey Kangaroos live in groups called mobs and have a dominant male that attempts to prevent other males from mating with receptive females.

Several mobs may merge outside breeding season.

Because of their relative abundance in country Victoria it is easy to take their appearance for granted.

We recommend that the observer take the time to watch their utterly Australian uniqueness and their incredible ease of movement.

Good places to observe Eastern Grey Kangaroos include the Wangaratta Common and Wenham’s Camp in the Warby Ranges, however they may also be found on any open pasture area adjoining bushland, especially at dusk or early morning.

Works are progressing to provide sufficient clearance to allow double-stacked freight to pass safely along the existing North East rail line. These include building a new Beaconsfield Parade bridge at Glenrowan, lowering the rail track under the Murray Valley Highway at Barnawartha North, building a new Seymour-Avenel Road bridge and pedestrian works at Wangaratta Station Precinct.

At Wangaratta, the Cusack Street footbridge is being removed from 3 July. Pedestrian access across the station precinct will be maintained via the Docker Street footbridge. These works will occur from 2am to 10pm on 3 July 2023. For full details visit inlandrail.info/cusack

At Glenrowan, temporary road closures and traffic changes are in place. For full details visit inlandrail.info/traffic

Inland Rail is a nation building project that will transform how goods are moved around Australia, generating opportunities for our regions and our economy, now and into the future.

Planned works include: Planned works include:

Glenrowan

Construction of piers and bridge supports for the new Beaconsfield Parade bridge.

Wangaratta

Removal of Cusack Street pedestrian footbridge.

Drainage works.

Relocation and connection of water, power and sewer services in the rail corridor.

Excavation works in readiness for construction of the new pedestrian underpass in September.

1800 732 761

Barnawartha North Drainage works.

Construction of retaining walls near the Murray Valley Highway bridge overpass to strengthen the bridge foundations. Ground investigations in readiness for the track lower in September.

Seymour

Under bore drilling to enable cabling works in preparation for new signalling infrastructure near Seymour-Avenel Road bridge.

victoriaprojects@artc.com.au

inlandrail.com.au/b2a

We thank you for your patience and cooperation while we carry out these works.

If you are interested in work on the Beveridge to Albury Tranche 1 project visit; mcconnelldowell.com/people/career-opportunities

Scan the QR code to sign up for project newsletters, updates and information.

The innocent stare of a young Eastern Grey Kangaroo.

PHOTO: Chris Tzaros (Birds Bush and Beyond)

ALL SET: Katie Dean (left) and Olivia Lindsay are preparing for tomorrow’s Wangaratta Football and Netball Club annual Ladies Day, with a swag of prizes up for grabs.

It’s a big footy weekend for women, and cancer cause

Friday, June 28, 2013

By CAITLIN SARTORI

DRESSED in pink, overlooking the football with a glass of champagne in hand is exactly what ladies at the Wangaratta Football and Netball Club will be doing tomorrow afternoon.

The Ladies Day Champagne Soiree will allow women from the club to unite with a glass of bubbly on the Magpies’ balcony, with 10 per cent of proceeds raised donated to the National Breast Cancer Foundation.

10 years ago 10 years ago

Around 80 women are expected to attend, with organisers Katie Dean and Olivia Lindsay thrilled with the support of the community behind this year’s event, which is expected to be the biggest Ladies Day the club has held to date. Tickets are still available, and

can be purchased at the gate on Saturday.

The Magpies are not the only local club to fundraise for the NBCF this weekend, with Ovens and King club Greta also holding a fundraiser when it meets Milawa tomorrow.

Jeremy Ackroyd has organised a barbecue at Greta’s clubrooms in support of the Breast Cancer Foundation, with tomorrow’s efforts adding to the near $9000 already raised.

Both fundraising efforts coincide with the annual AFL’s Women’s Round.

WILL YOU TAKE ME

HOME: Snuggleton may come off as shy at first but once he becomes comfortable in his new home, he will become super playful and cuddly. He would love to live in a home with another kit and/or kids. Snuggleton is also happy to stay at home while you’re at work as long as he has a safe place to cuddle up or explore. His microchip number is 956000016636289.

WANGARATTA RSPCA ADOPTION LIST

THE Wangaratta RSPCA currently have plenty of options for your new playmate/s. For more information or to meet any of the kittens, cats, dogs, puppies and rabbits the Wangaratta RSPCA currently have available, call (03) 5722 2874 or visit the shelter and find your new special friend.

Wangaratta RSPCA’s source code is #BR100934.

Cats:

 Short hair, grey tabby, female, 1 year, 956000016636713, ‘Felicity’;

 Short hair, black, male, 3 years, 941000027404577, ‘Luther’;

 Short hair, torbie, female, 1 year, 956000014961745, ‘Pastel’;

 Short hair, black tortoiseshell, female, 2 years, 956000016662906, ‘Puzzle’;

 Short hair, black, male, 1 year, 956000016636289, ‘Snuggleton’

Kittens:

 Short hair, torbie, female, 4 months, 956000016640044, ‘Opal’;

 Short hair, black, male. 4 months, 956000016699024, ‘Bran’;

 Short hair, black, male, 3 months, 956000016690607, ‘Douxie’;

 Short hair, tabby, female, 12 weeks, 956000016640409, ‘Lace’;

 Short hair, black, female, 4 months, 956000016695936, ‘Sansa’;

 Short hair, grey tabby, male, 4 months, 956000016634441.

‘Theon’

Dogs:

 Koolie, blue, female, 10 months, 956000015995275, ‘Bailey’;

 Kelpie, black, male, 9 months, 953010006181614, ‘Pepp’;

 German Shepard, black, female, 8 months, 956000015860150, ‘Pip’;

 English Staffordshire Bull Terrier, tan, female, 3 years, 956000016691233, ‘Pixie’

PHOTO: RSPCA

PHOTO: Caitlin Sartori

Pothole problems

Plantations bouncing back after bushfires

HVP Plantations is getting back on its feet in the Myrtleford area after the devastating Black Summer bushfires, with the plantation company making steady progress in restoring its burnt plantations, salvaging, cleaning up and preparing sites, and planting millions of new trees.

According to HVP, the Black Summer fires of 2019/2020 burnt 6300 hectares of plantation estate in North East Victoria, including 3000 hectares in the Myrtleford and Carboor plantation area.

This winter’s treeplanting season marks a significant milestone for the Myrtleford area, with all replantings finally being completed.

Road conditions raise concerns over driving safety

ALPINE Shire residents are calling out the state of local roads, with potholes an increasing safety worry and residents concerned repairs are merely patching over the problem.

Myrtleford local David Hogg said he counted 148 potholes on a recent drive on the Happy Valley Road between Ovens and the eastern edge of Rosewhite, before ascending the hill.

The local postman drives the roads regularly and said he has never seen it this bad, particularly noting road conditions on Happy Valley Road and the Myrtleford-Yackandandah Road.

“It’s getting beyond a disgrace - it’s actually getting dangerous,” he said.

“Even when they do patch them, they patch them with some bitumen and they tend to throw sand on top.

“I’ve noticed it breaks up within two days.”

The Myrtleford Times can confirm at least one of the worst pothole sites on

BY BRODIE EVERIST beverist@ nemedia.com.au

the Happy Valley Road was repaired last Thursday.

The turn into Wonnangatta Avenue in Tawonga South is a wellknown site of potholes, and avenue resident Mary Pike said it’s often so bad motorists avoid the left hand turn altogether, simply turning from the Kiewa Valley Highway and potentially slowing traffic.

The left-hand turn has had so many holes filled in, she likened it to a “patchwork quilt with lumps and bumps all over the place”.

She said it had been repaired last Wednesday, with the holes filled in, but they wouldn’t last long.

“It really needs the subbase rebuilt,” she said.

The Department of Transport and Planning is responsible for a number of major roads in the Alpine

Shire, including the Great Alpine Road, the Kiewa Valley Highway, the Tawonga Gap Road, Happy Valley Road, and the Snow Road.

Chris Bonacci, comanaging director of a local bus company, said they have self-imposed speed limits for their drivers due to the bad condition of the roads, and the Snow Road is off limits due to the potholes, unless they are picking up or dropping off a group through that route.

He said only two weeks ago one of their drivers hit a pothole, wrecking a $400 tyre and damaging the rim of the wheel.

“We’ve definitely had more tyre damage, not tyre wear - ripped out treads, torn sidewalls,” Mr Bonacci said.

He said another risk is the unexpected braking and swerving from other drivers trying to avoid potholes, and even he had a recent scare driving a truck when a vehicle in front slammed the brakes.

“I knew the damage

of the road was there, obviously they didn’t, and they just braked really hard in front of me,” he said.

“I’ve got 30 years of driving heavy vehicles - it rattled me.

“We’re seeing a lot more of that.”

HVP Plantations general manager for the northern region Mick Evans said the planting season – which is underway and will continue to mid-August - is timed to tap into the best crop establishment conditions for pine seedlings.

“It’s a major achievement for us to return the final hectares of burnt area back into a productive plantation crop,” Mr Evans said.

“This means we’re back to supporting our timber mills and local

processing facilities, and importantly providing stable employment to many people and businesses across the North East region.

“We plan to cover approximately 800 hectares of radiata pine plantation in the Myrtleford area.

“It’s a big task which is mostly completed by hand, and we’ll be doing it with the dedication of 45 planters.”

HVP Myrtleford district forester John Rigoni expressed his delight at seeing the fire-impacted area re-established and ready for the next generation of forest management.

“I have been part of the local forest industry for many years, and to see the impacts of those fires and the losses incurred was devastating,” Mr Rigoni said.

“As a local forester, you take great pride and care in the estate you are responsible for managing – to see it back in trees is a wonderful sight.”

The tree-planting project in Myrtleford is part of HVP’s North East program, which will plant approximately 2.5 million trees over more than 2000 hectares throughout 2023.

CRACKING UP: Myrtleford postman David Hogg said he has never seen the state of local roads this bad.

PHOTO: Brodie Everist

CCGU:ytleodpostaadoggsadeaseeseetestateolocaloadstsbad.

Bart Crawley, CEO

Glorious

Celebration time: Graduates Darren Metcraft, Julie Canning and Josh West with Merriwa CEO, Bart Crawley and Packaging Factory Manager, Paul Rundell

Proud trainers: Melinda Gray from Belvoir, Deanne Brown from Merriwa and Maddie Miles from Gr8 Training supporting the students through the SBAT program.

Savvy students: Sebastian Day, TJ Davis and Ayla Sedgwick enjoying

at Merriwa.

Far m labour Farm shor tages shortages

P k b di lli f

LOCAL farmers have raised concerns over ongoing labour shortages in agriculture, following the release of the Federal Government’s latest labour market update and peak food supply bodies calling for an end to labour shortages.

Kiewa Valley dairy farmer Stuart Crosthwaite said farmers in the North East are leaving the industry or adjusting their business because they can’t find skilled staff

He said demand for workers is high, increasing wages for farm labour, but they are still struggling to employ people in the long or medium term.

“There’s plenty of people out there that want a job, but just aren’t up to it,” he said.

“They can’t handle it, and so they end up resigning and moving on to something else.”

According to Mr Crosthwaite, strong dairy prices are offsetting the increase in wages, but he was concerned if prices drop.

BY BRODIE EVERIST beverist@ nemedia.com.au

“Farmers are scrambling over the top of each other to get good staff and they’re paying unbelievable amounts to attract people,” he said.

“When the milk prices drop, then we’re paying people so much for their labour - how’s that going to be sustainable?”

He said he has had success employing a Filipino man with an animal science degree who has worked on dairy farms in the US, and hopes to find another employee like him.

“If we are going to grow and our farms are going to get bigger, and we’re going to have more cows, we need more people,” he said.

“If we can’t find them in the Australian we have

to look outside.”

The Federal Government’s latest Labour Market Update backs up Mr Crosthwaite’s concerns, with an employee survey showing a vacancy rate of over 15 percent in regional Australia for skilled workers in animal, agricultural and horticultural industries between March 2022-23.

Meanwhile, the ‘National Food Supply Chain Alliance’, a group of peak food industry

bodies including the National Farmers Federation, has recently said labour shortages are contributing to increasing food prices.

According to the peak bodies, the food supply chain urgently requires a suite of solutions, including reducing barriers to work and providing suitable visa pathways to welcome overseas workers.

Myrtleford cattle, berry and persimmon farmer Frank

Primerano said while finding seasonal workers had eased somewhat since the COVID-19 pandemic, he found them to be unreliable.

“We had two workers when we were harvesting this year,” he said.

“When we finished picking they told us at nine o’clock at night they are leaving at four o’clock in the morning.”

“We were left with no workers for the next day.”

And while numbers of contract workers have increased since the pandemic, he said, they are charging high prices for their labour.

“Contractors are now charging between $30 to $35 an hour plus GST,” Mr Primerano said.

“When you when you’re paying so much for wages and you getting little reward in your fruit, it’s very difficult to get ahead.”

We've done all the hard work for you with our designer Acreage range.

WORKER WORRIES: Myrtleford cattle, berry and persimmon farmer Frank Primerano and his brother-in-law Joe La Spina, who owns a farm in Whorouly, are concerned about costs for farm labour.

PHOTO: Brodie Everist

Twin bedrooms, bathrooms and courtyards. Wow

THIS two bedroom townhouse on independent title has a great West End arterial location, close to shops, hospital, butcher’s, bakery, schools, bus and walking tracks.

It is superbly presented inside and out with ensuite, second renovated bathroom, Induction cooktops, dishwasher, gas heating, gas

HWS and evaporative cooling.

The open plan affords ample morning sunlight and street views from the kitchen and breakfast bar.

The home has built in robes and floating flooring, with upgrades throughout in the past five years.

The front yard is bathed in northern winter sun while the rear courtyard with new

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

fencing and paving offers privacy leading to the carport and lock up brick shed.

This is an Ideal first home, investment or small home opportunity with the second bathroom, courtyards and location being very appealing.

There is an open house at 12:00pm this Saturday, July 1st and 11:00am Tuesday, July 4th.

Nutrien Harcourts 5722 9444

$455,000 1/165 Rowan Street, Wangaratta

Agent | Phone | Price | Location | wangaratta.nutrienharcourts. com.au/L19193801

roof purlins and columns), 10,000 litre & 5000 litre Fuel Tanks, Dam Floats, RSJ Columns & Steel, Culverts, Tether Rake, 2-4 mtr Bucket & Grab c/w JD Quick

Hitch, 3pl Scallop Discs, Heavy Duty Slasher, Smudger, Stick Rake, Old handmade Bricks & Bluestone, Outdoor Timber Bench Seats, Sleepers, 80yr old Oregon, 3pl Spreader, Honda

Motor & Fire Pump c/w Hoses, 1,000 ltr s/s Ex Milk Vat, Timber & Steel Roof Trusses, Roofing

Iron, Quantity of Timber Logs (Mixed Species, some cypress pine), Quantity of Storage

Lockers, Quantity of Timber Slabs (Red Gum, Fiddle Back & Stringy), Mobile Tractapak Welder c/w Holden 186 Motor, Trailers, Inter Truck Bonnet, Drill Press 2 hp, Wood Lathe, Laminated

Flooring, Collections, Horse Drawn Plough, Trawallah Jack, HR Holden Station Wagon Body, TK Bedford Cab, Volkswagen Motor, Stained & Lead Light Window Panels, Historic

Devine in Dalwhinnie

A QUALITY build completed in 2017, 6 Dalwhinnie Drive has a lot to offer for anyone looking for a tidy low maintenance investment, or a home with plenty of high-end finishes.

Located in one of Wangaratta’s newest central streets, situated just 600m to supermarket and 1.5km to the CBD, this property is worth inspecting. Comprising three bedrooms, the master bedroom has walk in wardrobe

and stylish ensuite and the two additional bedrooms both have BIR.

The open plan kitchen/dining makes great use of space, caesar stone benchtops, breakfast bar, modern gas cooktop and electric oven (900mm).

A second living area is off the main hallway perfect for a movie room or kids rumpus room.

The main bathroom has a separate shower and toilet, while the separate

laundry has good storage and access outside.

Refrigerated ducting heating and cooling, low maintenance lawn and garden and double garage, are just some of the reasons why inspections are a must to appreciate the quality.

The property is currently rented for $500 per week until January 2024.

There is an open house this Saturday, July 1st from 11am - 11.30am.

‘Baxendale’s Vineyard’ can only be described as unique, exceptional, and one of a kind for its production, potential, position, views & location in a developing tourist precinct. Developed & operated by the current owners since 1988.

Agent | Phone | Price | Location |

Nutrien Harcourts 5722 9444 $565,000

6 Dalwhinnie Drive, Wangaratta

3 2 2 wangaratta.nutrienharcourts. com.au/L19194447

TOYOTA IRONS OUT ROGUE TUB-TOP KINKS

By DEREK OGDEN, Marque Motoring

FOLLOWING an earlier stumble or two, the Rogue has redeemed itself.

The HiLux top-dog ute has taken its rightful place as the genuine hero of Australia’s best-selling range of vehicles.

My introduction to the HiLux Rogue last year was fraught, with its motorised roll-top tray cover jamming centimetres from full retraction with no amount of button pressing – even physical exertion on my part - getting it to close.

Revisiting the MY21 dualcab utility recently everything worked to order, which was welcome as the tonneau cover is the result of design and development by Aussie engineers as part of their task to produce a combination of toughness, complemented by a more recreational focus for a vehicle designed to go anywhere and be sold in markets around the world.

Toyota Australia’s role in developing and evaluating the 2.8-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel engine, rear suspension and hydraulic power steering was supported by teams from Japan and Thailand, as well as representatives from other markets.

The Rogue sells for $68,990, plus on-road costs and options.

The HiLux, in general, continues its reign as the bestselling vehicle in Australia and like all Toyota vehicles

is covered by Toyota Service Advantage, with each of the first scheduled services costing just $250 each.

STYLING

Out of Toyota’s Melbourne design studio comes a dark vertical grille that cascades from the bonnet down to the prominent lower bumper and under-guard.

LED headlamps, with dark internals, combine with bold outer corners of the bumper, which links to strong fog lamp surrounds.

An aggressive side profile continues the theme with robust fender flares, unique wheel-arch mouldings and an integrated resin sports bar making its debut.

Wheel-arches also are generous enough to take bigger, fatter alloys than the factory-fitted 18-inchers.

A new sports bar, made from resin, is easier to mould than steel, allowing it to have a more artistic ‘sailplane’ shape.

Out back are redesigned bumper and tailgate.

The tub itself is kitted out, up the walls too, like a fully carpeted lounge room (no place for gravel, rocks or rubbish), with marine-grade liner lifting appearance and coverage.

INFOTAINMENT

Pride of place is a larger 8-inch display touchscreen plus control knobs, an upgraded multimedia system with Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, and a premium

JBL nine-speaker sound system.

ENGINES / TRANSMISSIONS

The upgraded 1GD turbodiesel engine now develops 150 kW at 3400 rpm and 500 Nm between 1600 and 2800 rpm, gains of 15 per cent and 11.1 per cent respectively.

The six-speed automatic transmission has been recalibrated to allow earlier lockup for improved acceleration and to ensure Toyota’s temperature tolerances, especially when towing, were observed.

SAFETY

The HiLux Rogue carries a five-star safety rating on 2019 testing and is equipped with Toyota Safety Sense, including a pre-collision system with autonomous emergency braking and the ability to detect pedestrians around the clock and cyclists in daylight.

DRIVING

Driving has been made easier by work done on the rear suspension, improving unladen ride comfort, while a new variable flow-control power-steering pump offers more help in low-speed manoeuvres such as parking.

Braked towing capacity has been uprated by 300 kg to 3500 kg, courtesy of the higher-output engine and a recalibrated six-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission.

Eco or Sport driving

modes are accessed by pressing one of two buttons on the centre console.

Sport frees up engine revs and fun ride but Eco is worth ignoring.

It’s a Toyota, so there’s also a low-range mode for tough off-road driving.

Toyota claims a combined urban / highway fuel consumption of 8.4 litres per 100 kilometres.

The test vehicle worked out at 11.7 litres per 100 kilometres in suburban streets down to 6.4 litres per 100 kilometres when opened up on the motorway.

Improved ride and handling are all-encompassing with the MY20 Rogue.

Leaf springs and shock absorbers were re-tuned to improve unladen ride comfort without compromising the vehicle’s ability to carry loads over uneven terrain, while low-friction rear shackle bushes add to ride comfort.

Rear stability benefits from leaf spring front bushes with increased lateral stiffness.

Revised chassis mounts reduce vibrations and noise transfer to the cabin, particularly on rough roads.

A variable flow control power-steering pump improves steering feeling on winding country roads and reduces steering effort when parking.

It’s a pity about the outsize 12.6 metre turning circle.

SUMMARY

The Rogue is up against

AT

MODEL RANGE

TOYOTA HILUX ROGUE FROM $68,990

Note: These prices do not include government or dealer delivery charges. Contact your local Toyota dealer for driveaway prices.

SPECIFICATIONS (Toyota HiLux Rogue 2.8L 4-cylinder diesel, 6sp automatic, 4WD Utility)

RATINGS:

Looks: 8/10; Performance: 8/10; Safety: 7/10; Thirst: 6/10; Practicality: 8/10; Comfort: 7/10; Tech: 7/10; Value: 7/10

some of the stiffest competition in the premium luxury ute market and it’s fair to say the power roll top would be considered an important selling point for the Hilux ‘hero’.

Fortunately, the test automatic tonneau was back on track.

So is the HiLux Rogue.

ENGINE:

Capacity:2.755 litres

Configuration: Four cylinders inline

Maximum Power: 150 kW @ 3400 rpm

Maximum Torque: 500 Nm @ 1600-2800 rpm

Fuel Type: Diesel Combined Fuel Cycle (ADR

81/02): 8.4 L/100km

Emissions CO2: 220g/km

DRIVELINE:

Six-speed electronically controlled automatic, allwheel drive

DIMENSIONS, WEIGHT AND CAPACITIES:

Length: 5325 mm

Wheelbase: 3085 mm

Width: 1900 mm

Height: 1795 mm

Turning Circle: 12.6 metres

Kerb Mass: 2231 kg

Fuel Tank Capacity: 80 litres

STANDARD WARRANTY: Five years / unlimited kilometres

■ RIDING THE BUMPS WITH A GRIN: Full retraction . . . Rogue tonneau tale with a happy ending.

Local people, local places

...immerse yourself in the region

Rural City Connection

Public

Community Grants applications open next week. If you have an idea for a project come see us at one of our community drop-in sessions!

Discuss your idea with a knowledgeable Council Officer and get your application underway and submitted!

Wed 12 July | @WangarattaLibrary | 2pm-4pm

Thu 13 July | @King River Cafe - Oxley | 10am-12pm

Thu 13 July | @Plough Inn – Tarrawingee | 5pm-7pm

Tue 18 July | @Whorouly Cafe | 1pm-3pm

Thu 20 July | @Wangaratta Library | 5pm-7pm

Tue 25 July | @Glenrowan Bakehouse | 10am-12pm

Tue 25 July | @Wangaratta Performing Arts Centre | 5pm-7pm

Registration is essential! Please email communitygrants@wangaratta.vic.gov.au or call 5722 0888 to book a time.

For more information, assistance or to apply, please visit, https://www.wangaratta.vic.gov.au/YourCouncil/Grants-and-funding/Community-Grants

Draft Policies

The Fraud and Corruption Control Policy 2023 has been endorsed by Council and Council is inviting community submissions up to 5pm on Friday 28 July 2023.

How to make a submission

By Email: council@wangaratta.vic.gov.au.

Please include “Fraud and Corruption Control Policy 2023” in the subject line.

Mail: PO Box 238, Wangaratta VIC 3676. Please include “Fraud and Corruption Control Policy 2023” as the reference.

In Person: To Customer Services, Wangaratta Government Centre – Corner Ford and Ovens Street, Wangaratta. Please include “Fraud and Corruption Control Policy 2023” as the reference to your submission

To view the policy, please go to our website www.wangaratta.vic.gov.au/Public-Notices.

For further information please contact (03) 5722 0888.

Celebrate NAIDOC Week with the whole family!

Come down to the Northern Beaches on Friday 7 July between 10:30am and 2pm for a fun family day out on Country.

Learn all about local wildlife, with presentations and activities, as well as face painting, games, and art and craft.

There will be a FREE BBQ LUNCH from 12pm No need to book - see you there!

Public

To kick start your Plastic Free July, check out these fantastic FREE workshops at the Wangaratta Library: What A Waste Workshop - Learn how to make a beeswax wrap to help you on your plastic free journey, on Saturday 1 July at 10am. Reusable Nappy Workshop 101 - Learn about using cloth nappies, save money and help reduce landfill, on Monday 3 July at 11:30am.

To register for these events please visit, https://events.humanitix.com/plasticfreejuly.

And if you are in the King Valley, the King Valley Food Hub have bulk whole foods for sale and a food share will be underway this Saturday 1 July from 10.30am -12.30pm at the Cheshunt Hall. Bring along your containers to fill and any excess produce you have to swap. There will also be a workshop to make your own reusable vegetable bag!

AUCTION

Grays.com are selling an ex-Council Hino cherry picker, to view the vehicle and lodge an EOI please visit, https://www.grays.com/sale/3025808/ transport-trucks-and-trailers/never-used-2022hino-fg1628-cherry-picker-truck-eoi.

Tenders

C40797 Reconstruction of Merriwa Park Retaining Wall – Stage 2 Tender closes at 2pm Wednesday 12 July 2023.

Further details may be obtained by visiting Council’s website at, https://www.wangaratta.vic.gov.au/Your-Council/ Working-with-Council. To discuss upcoming projects in your community please contact Council on 03 5722 0888

Positions vacant

Child Care Educator

Town Planner

Grit & Resilience Support Officer

Compliance Coordinator

Building Inspector/Surveyor

Domestic Care Worker

Community Care Worker

Mechanic - Heavy Stream

Lifeguard

Aquatic Education Instructor

Gym Instructor

Group Fitness Instructor

Customer Experience Officer

Payroll Officer

Social Planner - Housing

Case Manager

Management Reporting Coordinator

Customer Experience Officer

Visitor Services Officer

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

NAIDOC Week artwork, Nurratj Galnya - Dream Sweet - Koorie Art by Rebecca Atkinson

INPERSONBYPHONESELLING

37 Rowan Street, Wangaratta 3677 5723 0101 classifieds@ nemedia.com.au

WHENTO BOOK BYEMAIL

ACAR BUY ONLINE

2

PEOPLE STILL WANTED FOR ALPINE FOOD BIN ROLLOUT

Are you fit, active?

Mobile Bins Australia is working with Alpine Shire to deliver Food & Organics wheelie bins.

Expression of Interest

Commercial Builders

Registrations sought for Commercially Registered Builders for Marian College Myrtleford

New Wellbeing and Learning Centre

Construction of new single storey education building with associated works and the demolition of existing classroom building .

Total building approx. 407m2.

Tenderer’s registration to include and will be evaluated on the following criteria: Submission quality; Previous relevant company experience; Personnel experience; Current commitments; or past experience with client and design team; Proximity; and Perceived ability to provide an appropriate service on this project.

Registration does not imply selection on limited tender list. Documents expected to be released to selected tender list August 2023

Registrations by email only by 14 July 2023 to

No. 42 Architects Pty Ltd kenwoodman@no42architects.com.au

Contact Ken Woodman 0427 424 201

All towns need 1 x bin per home. We have a team but need more hands to assemble & deliver. Get involved in this project that helps turn food waste into organics. JUNE/JULY 2023.

Top casual rates paid, ABN holders too. To apply write and tell us briefly about yourself and why this job might suit you.

Email: info@ridestorm.com.au

JOBS AT INDIGO

Plant Operator/Road Maintenance Worker Rutherglen

Road Maintenance Worker Yackandandah

Library Coordinator Rutherglen

Marketing and Digital

Employment: northeastjobs.com.au

Real Estate: northeastproperty.com.au

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

Vacancies

Clinical Nurse Consultant Palliative Care

Part Time, 3 Year Contract 56 hours per fortnight

Care Coordinator Complex Care Service Part Time, 12 Month Contract 56 hours per fortnight

Enrolled and Registered Surgical Nurses Multiple Contracts Available

For further details and employment opportunities visit northeasthealth.org.au/careers

Advertising Account Manager (Full-Time)

Wangaratta Chronicle is looking for a driven and committed individual to join the advertising team at our office in Wangaratta.

If you can always see an opportunity and enjoy the idea of helping businesses grow, then we want to talk to you. To be successful in this role you will be able to demonstrate

Excellent work ethic, organisational skills & attention to detail with a drive to achieve results.

An ability to communicate with a wide range of people across various industries. Create innovative business proposals, develop collaborative partnerships and provide excellent customer service both internally and externally.

Building Surveyor Yackandandah

Maternal and Child Health Nurse

Works

Seasonal Municipal Operations Opportunities

Farming Support Officer

opportunity for a Level 1 Electrical Technician to join our close knit

Alkifklif

The Electrical Technician plays a maintenance response across the North of the Industrial Control System team infrastructure.

: visit www newater com au/careers

please do not hesitate to contact Damien Kelly, Industrial Control Systems Coordinator on 0400 583 028 2 July 2023.

North East Water Recruitment Ph: 1300 361

Taking over an established client list, you will be selling advertising and digital marketing opportunities to existing clients while looking to drive new business opportunities. An ability to develop and maintaining business relationships will be the key to your success in this role.

An attractive remuneration package is offered including a base salary, commission and employer superannuation contributions.

North East Media is an independent media group publishing award winning publications in print and online across North East Victoria and beyond.

Please forward your application and covering letter to Ian Pople Sales Manager at the Wangaratta Chronicle, ipople@nemedia.com.au

TRAIN THE NEXT GENERATION

BRING YOUR SKILLS AND PASSIONS TO WORK EVERY DAY

Contribute to the future workforce and make a positive difference in the community. We have a range of Full-time, Part-time and Casual available across Wangaratta, Shepparton, Seymour

Construction

GOTAFE will help successful candidates who do not hold a valid Certificate in Training and Assessment to gain this qualification.

Apply now or contact recruitment@gotafe.vic.edu.au or more information.

ANGUS bulls, very quiet, good growth, visit mmas.com.au for videos, data and pricing, Marramungee Angus Stud. Ph 0429 809 288. FREE Range Hens, ISA Brown Pullets, POL, $27 each. Phone Becky or Hugh on 5798 1868.

MOVING house, everything must go!Furniture, linen, kids toys, kitchen stuff. Saturday, July 1, 8am12pm. 17 Swan Street, Wangaratta.

CONCRETING - Big or small jobs. Paths, driveways, shed slabs, verandahs. 15 years experience. For a free quote phone Trev Anderson on 0422 200 761.

DANIEL’S Carpentry and Maintenance Solutions. Servicing Wangaratta and surrounds. For a free quote and examples of my work find us on Facebook or www. danielscarpentry.com or phone 0413 660 636.

ENVIRO LIQUID WASTE. Your locally owned and operated septic cleaning business. Servicing septics, grease traps, triple interceptors and winery waste. Phone Peter 0419 163 420.

GARDENING, MOWING for all gardening needs in Wangaratta district from Violet Town to Cheshunt, Springhurst, Bundalong South. Please phone Geoff Moore 0421 639 775.

GUTTER CLEANING, hedge trimming, cleaning, pruning, garden tidy up, rubbish removal, odd jobs. 25 years trade experience. Phone Michael 0412 857 771.

PAINTER, old school, for all your painting needs. Commercial, industrial renovations. Phone Julian 0412 597 482.

2016 Nissan Navara

R X D23 4WD Twin Cab, steel tray, bull bar, 124,600kms, RWC, R EG (1UW9XF) to F eb 2024, $35,000. Phone Tav 0438 217 468.

2015 , Holden Astr a VXR Turbo, excellent condition, 27,000km, RWC, 12 month rego, (AJJ295), $22,800, ONO. Ph 0401 518 029.

2011 Subaru Forester, AWD manual, 343,258kms, moto r rebuilt by Subaru at 186,047kms 2/5/2017, (YJF 550), Rego June 2024, $9,000, Ph 0407

Personal Notices

60TH WEDDING ANNIVERSARY

VW TOUAREG

4x4, 2007 model, V6 turbo diesel, silve r exterior, grey interior, automatic, excellent condition, regularly serviced and garaged, leather upholstery, wood grain dash, mechanically sound, good fuel economy, very comfortable to drive, two new tyres, current Vic Reg (UWA862), RWC supplied, $12,000 ONO. Ph John Atkins 0428 690 267.

SOLD

MOBILE Cool room, 8ft long, 7-6ft high, 4ft wide, hanging rails, r egistered, $4000. Ph 5725 1313.

60 th Wedding Anniversary

Congratulations Vic and Betty Wingrave on your 60th Wedding Anniversary! Not many kids get to wish their parents a Happy 60th Anniversary these days. We consider ourselves very lucky and look up to the commitment and love you have shown through good times and bad. Enjoy your special day together with family and friends.

~ Lots of love Rhonda and Jamie, Ray and Marni, Gary and Melissa and all 8 Grandchildren.

DEATH NOTICES

DELANEY, Kevin Daniel. 30/1/1938 – 22/6/2023

Son of William and Ellen (both dec).

Loved husband of Angela. Loving father of Lori and Merryn. Grandpop of Arki, Gradyn and Mira. Rest in peace.

Cherished father of Lori. Father in law to Jie. Your memory a treasure, You are loved beyond words, And will be missed beyond measure.

DEATH NOTICES

GUAN, Valerie.

10/8/1933 - 26/6/2023

Sharon and Greg wish to advise the passing of their beautiful mother Valerie Lorraine Guan (Birmingham). Valerie passed peacefully on Monday, June 26, 2023 aged 89. Beloved Wife, Mother, Mother in-law and Nana. A gentle soul forever in our hearts.

MUNRO (Reid),

Clare.

16/10/1952 – 27/6/2023

Sadly passed away. Loving wife of John. Loving mother and mother-in-law of Emma and Corey.

Loving Nana to Arj and Luka. Cherished sister of Laurence, Peter, Robert, Fabian, Frances (dec), Mary, Catherine, Jim, Barbara, Jo and Angela.

RYAN, Patricia Ann (Pat). 25/9/1939 – 25/6/2023

The family of Patricia Ryan is saddened to announce her passing on June 25, 2023.

Aged 83 years. Pat passed away peacefully. Much loved wife of Desmond (dec). Mother and mother-in-law of Toni (dec) and Amando, Wayne and Sue, Darryl and Sarah.

FUNERALS

MUNRO (Reid)

16/10/1952 – 27/6/2023

Funeral service to honour the life of Clare Munro will be held at North East Funerals, 184 Greta Road, Wangaratta at 11am on Friday, July 7, 2023. A private cremation will follow the service.

In lieu of flowers please make a donation to a charity of your choice.

GUAN

Relatives and friends are invited to attend the committal service for Mrs Valerie Guan at the Bright Lawn Cemetery on Wednesday July 5, 2023 at 11am.

A memorial service to celebrate Valerie’s life will follow in the Mason Park Chapel, 95 Mason Street, Wangaratta on Wednesday, July 5, 2023 commencing at 2.00pm. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Dementia Australia at www.dementia.org.au

Valerie’s Service can be viewed via livestream at www.masonpark.com.au/live-streaming/

BEREAVEMENT THANKS

McGRANAHAN, John.

LUMBY, Merlyn Jean. Passed away July 2, 2019.

As we look upon your picture, Sweet memories we recall, Of a face so full of sunshine, And a smile for one and all, To us you were so precious, So loving and dear, How we wish Mum and Nan, That you were still here.

~ Sharon, Michael and Jordan.

McCLEAN, Bronywn. 10 years since you passed away Mum. Always remembered by Darryl, Lynn, Pud and families.

RYAN, Patricia.

25/9/1939 – 25/6/2023

SUZUKI DRZ400 (2002), very good condition, low kilometres, recentl y serviced, 12 months rego, sold without RWC, (CB657), $3500. Phone Michael 0405 535 477.

CARAVANS & CAMPERS

JAYCO Starcraft caravan, 15ft, r egistered, $10,500. Ph 0493 045 146.

30 TONNE firewood block splitter $1500, Husquvarna ride on mower $1500, other items available. Ph 0493 045 146

TYRES new and secondhand, trailer, rims, wrecking. New hours 9am to 5pm, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, 44 Newman Street, Wangaratta. Ph 0428 257 221. Adzam Tyres.

Much loved father of Merryn. Father in law of Chris.

Cherished grandfather to Arki, Gradyn and Mira. Loved and remembered always xxx.

Loved husband of Angela.

Father of Lori and Merryn. Father in law of Chris and Jie. Pop to Arki, Gradyn and Mira. Rest in eternal peace.

Narelle and Richard.

Please see next Friday’s Chronicle for funeral details.

Dearly loved sister-in-law of Margaret (dec) and Clarrie Fischer. Loved Aunty of Kaylene, Janelle, Tania and families. We will always remember you Pat as someone special. We will think about you often. We will talk about you too. We have so many lovely memories of you. Gone to be with Des again.

SAMPSON, Hec. Late of Finley, formerly of Moyhu. Beloved brother and brother-in-law of Rosemary and Gordon Gibson (both dec).

Adored Uncle of Andrew, Marianne, Geoff, Howard and families.

Cherished Memories

FUNERALS

RYAN

GATTY, Jeffery “Jeff”. 13/11/1959-27/6/2023

Formerly of Cheshunt.

Dearly loved brother of Jean and brother-in-law of Frank. You will be sadly missed.

The requiem mass to celebrate the life of Mrs Patricia Ryan will be held in the Mason Park Chapel, 95 Mason Street, Wangaratta on Tuesday, July 4, 2023, commencing at 10.30am.

Burial will follow at the Wangaratta Lawn Cemetery.

Pat to Northeast Health Palliative Care Unit can be made online at www. givenow.com.au/nhw.

The family of the late John McGranahan wish to extend our sincere thanks for the love and support that has been extended cards and home-cooked meals. at North East Palliative Care for the compassion and comfort they provided John so he could remain at home until his peaceful passing and for their ongoing support to our family.

forever in our hearts.

FUNERAL DIRECTORS

Instead of flowers, a Memorial Gift

An alternative to flowers at a funeral of a loved one is a memorial donation. Family and friends can make a donation in lieu of flowers in recognition of the care and attention provided by Northeast Health Wangaratta. For more information please contact ourCommunity Engagement Team (03) 5722 5069 or PO Box 386, Wangaratta, Vic 3676.

Proud

John & Christine Haddrick

Why not charge your advertisement to Mastercard or Visa?

5723 0101

JACK HART

WANGARATTA Chronicle photographer Kurt Hickling made his way down to junior football on Saturday and Melissa Beattie went to Wangaratta Knights’ league tag to capture some action. Photographs can be purchased at The Chronicle office in Rowan Street.

COURTNEY HIGLETT

TIANAN STUART

COOPER BOWMAN

ARCHIE EVANS

JAX BORSCHMANN (COLLEGE)

KAYLA LYNCH

JACK TONKIN

LUKE PENSAK

CHLOE DARCY

NICOLA MELVILLE

JUBILEE GOLF CLUB

Saturday, June 24

Stroke

A Grade Winner: Linda

Stone 74.

B Grade Winner: Frances

Duffy (Medal) 73.

Ball winners: Robyn Ottaway 74, Leanne Carmody 76, Val Ellis 76.

Saturday, June 24

Stroke Monthly Medal

A Grade Winner: Gordon Paterson 71.

B Grade Winner: Glenn

Oconnell (Medal) 68.

C Grade Winner: Zac Hedin 73.

D Grade Winner: Gary Voss 70.

Ball Winners: Adrian Speziale 71, Mathew Nunn 72, Joe Marjanovic 73, Glenn Ryan 73, Rodney Seibre 73, Rhys Rigoni 73, Nigel Cooper 74, Eon Scott 74, Wade Goodwin 74, Willie Lomard 74, Ian Mills 75, Joshua Ormond 75, Atila 75, Nat Hirunwiwat 75.

Best Scratch: Jarred Adamo 77.

Super Nine

Club Shirt: Tashi Tenzig

26.

Aroma Deli: Glenn Oconnell 21.

2 Balls: Gary Voss 21.

NTP: 4th Rhys Rigoni, 8th Wade Goodwin, 13th Ben Robertson, 17th Glenn Oconnell.

Sunday, June 25

Mixed round robin, pinehurst and stableford

Winner P’Hurst: Melody Adams & Andy Senkic 69.87.

Runners Up: Joy Hester & Wayne Roberts 72.50.

Winner S’ford: Michael Cordier 40.

Ball winners: Tom Aggett

34.

NTP: 4th Michael Cordier-Frances Duffy, 8th Andy Senkic-Joy Hester, 13th Glenn O’Connell-Leeanne Carmody, 17th Michael Cordier.

Monday, June 26

Stableford Vets

A Grade: Martin Hill 38.

B Grade: Rob Lowe 38.

Ball winners: Ian Harbourd 37, Barry Adams 36, Ian Dinsdale 36.

NTP: 8th Barry Adams, 13th Martin VanRhee.

Tuesday, June 27

Stableford 2nd round

SCOREBOARD

morning tea.

The birds were out in abundance and Pete was able to identify quite a number for us: Little Pied Cormorant, Australasian Darter, Musk Duck, Pacific Black Duck, Great Egret, Noisy Minor, Superb Fairy Wren, White Plumed Honeyeater, Magpie, Magpie-Lark, Raven, White Ibis, Galah, Kookaburra, Eurasian Coot, Australasian Grebe, Sulphur Crested Cockatoo - just to name a few!

Lunch was enjoyed in the gardens of Pfeiffer’s Winery along with some sparkling Pfizz for the ladies and Tempranillo for the gents.

This was followed by the experience of consuming Pat’s now long established afternoon tea which now has hungry bushwalkers dipping into bowls with exotic tastes.

Coming Events

Saturday, July 8

weekday aggregate

32

Winner: Josie Fitzsimons

Ball winners: Vicki Moorhead 30, Joy Hester 29, Erika Lombard 21.

Wednesday, June 28

Stableford

A Grade Winner: Dr Eon Scott 40.

B Grade Winner: Doug Ritchens 34 C/B.

C Grade Winner: Ray Hyland 36.

Ball winners Jacob Schonafinger 38, Glenn O’Connell 37, Micheal Cordier 36, Micheal Monro 34, Noel Holmes 34, Pat Earnst 34.

NTP: 4th Laurie Miller, 8th Alex Gibbs, 13th Mitch Howe.

Wednesday, June 28

9 hole stableford

Winner: Leo McCoy 16.

Runner Up: Tony Kosch 14.

WANGARATTA GOLF CLUB

WGC Competitions: Week ending June 25

Mens Competition:

June 21

18 Hole Stableford

Winner: Phil Moss 33 Points.

Runner Up: Greg Sullivan

32 Points.

NTP 9th: Matt Nicolosi.

9 Hole Statbleford

Winner: Keith Fleet 12 C/B Points.

Runner Up: Arthur Ingarfield 12 C/B Points.

Womens Competition: 9 Hole June 22

Winners: Maggie Ray 15 Points.

Runners Up: Nora Martin 14 C/B Points.

Men’s Competition: June 24

A Grade Winner: David Altair 35 Points.

A Grade Runner Up: Trevor Cooper 33 C/B Points.

NTP: 4th David Altair, 9th Darren Burns, 11th Phillip Moss, 13th Trevor Cooper. Birdie: Trevor Cooper. Secret 6: Andrew Brereton.

TARRA GOLF CLUB

Tarrawingee Golf Club

Results Saturday, June 24.

Due to the wet conditions a par three event on a composite course was played with the winner being Pete Nolan 72-21-51, runner up Manny Tanirau nett 54, there were no nearest the pins recorded.

Monthly Awards

Captains Award: Lindsay Steer, Secretaries Award: Lindsay Steer, Gobblers: Mark Nolan, Birdies: Pete Nolan.

Golf on Saturday, July 1 will be a stroke event for the Monthly Medal, ladies are also invited to participate as there will be a separate event played for them.

The hit off times for Saturday’s are 11:30am roll up for a 12noon start, we ask members to be early to enable the days program to be organised.

New members are always welcome at the Tarrawingee Golf Club, the joining fee is $100 the contact number is 0428122590 or by contacting a member of the club.

CROQUET

Results for Monday, June 12 are as follows:

Robyn Muller and Dawn Wind d Susan Fischer and Elaine Mudge 7/3, Heather Gulbin and Terry Wilson d Gabi Heywood and Maureen O’Keefe 7/4, Joan Dyson and Cheryle Beckley d Christine Ireland and Gavan Kelly 7/1, Nathan Reynolds d Elise Downes 7/4.

Twenty members enjoyed lunch at the Wangaratta Club on Tuesday and eight members braved the cold weather on Wednesday to enjoy some hard fought games.

Playing days are Monday, Wednesday and Saturday commencing at 1pm.

Visitors are welcome to come down and enjoy some games with our members.

Please arrive 15 minutes early to allow for the draw to be done.

Late arrivals will be included in the next game.

The club is located at 46 Ryan Avenue, Wangaratta.

For further information please contact one of the numbers listed below.

President Susan Fischer on 0417217009 or secretary Terry Wilson on 0417326739.

WARBY WALKERS

Saturday, June 24

Lake Moodemere, Wahgunyah

This loop walk around Lake Moodemere was attended by seven members. The weather forecast wasn’t promising as a cold and overcast day along with some rain was expected.

The day started off overcast but the clouds disappeared for a time and we saw quite a bit of blue sky.

The 11k walk started at Pfeiffers Winery headed from where we headed south on a bush track which in parts was a stream of water to be navigated.

We all got through with dry feet and continued on to the sporting section of Lake Moodemere for

Mt Pilot, Chiltern - Mt Pilot NP (Michael, 0447 617 880).

An easy walk of about 6k, and a medium walk of about 11km on gravel roads and bush tracks involving some moderate ascent from the Yeddonba Aboriginal Cultural Site, to Mt Pilot in the Chiltern - Mt Pilot National Park.

360 degree views from atop Mt Pilot.

Thursday, July 13

Lake Benalla and Benalla Art Gallery (Andy, 0439 209 749).

An easy level loop walk of about 6k around Lake Benalla, and then it’s off to the Benalla Art Gallery to check out the artworks and café. Bush tracks, and some sealed surfaces.

Sunday, July 23

Mount Glenrowan via Chick Hill, WONP (Chris, 0418 503 802).

An easy to medium return walk of about 12k along the Ridge Track to Mt Glenrowan with a side trip to Chick Hill.

Walking mostly on gravel roads, and some bush tracks, in the WONP.

Excellent views from Morgans Lookout at Mt Glenrowan, and views to the alps over the King and Ovens Valleys from Chick Hill.

COLD MORNING: Barb Thomas tees it up on Saturday’s winter’s morning at the Wangaratta Golf Club. PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

Fine-tuning Demons out for revenge

By NATHAN de VRIES

THE last time Milawa took on King Valley, the Roos came away with the victory by a single point – tomorrow, the Demons will seek to set the record straight.

Milawa sits fourth on the ladder but will be lamenting their three dropped games this season, but none more so than their defeat at the hands of the Roos back in round two.

Since then, Milawa have been surgical, only falling to top sides Greta and Bonnie Doon, and have shown they have stars all over the ground.

Co-coach Matt Graham said his side had all the motivation they’d need to peg one back over the Roos.

“I don’t think we, as a coaching staff, have to motivate them too much, I think they’re self-motivating for this weekend,” he said.

“Last game, we did get caught off-guard, I think our group as a whole probably thought we were a little bit further ahead of where we were.

“We got caught napping at the start and we were chasing tail for the rest of the game.

“That’s something we need to improve on Saturday, we make sure we put our best foot forward right from the start and make sure we don’t end up chasing tail.”

The Demons have been going from strength to strength as the season has worn on, bolstered by an iron-clad defensive structure.

Milawa has conceded the fewest points (386), one less than second-placed team Bonnie Doon (387).

“Defensively we structure up quite well, that’s still led by those same leaders like Mick Batey, Simon Pane, Josh Owen, Rick Petts,” Graham said.

“That’s sort of flown through the team now so we know that whoever we play and wherever, we’re at least in the contest for the four quarters.

“We’re hoping to get that improvement as the season goes on but there are a few young guys.

“Jarryd Wallace is starting to find his feet within the Ovens and King system, Luke Toohey, Seb De Napoli – these are younger guys who will continue to improve as the season goes on.

“We’ve found a couple of little gems in there, but they’re just not quite polished as yetwe’re looking forward to what they can produce through the back half of the year.”

The Demons host King Valley tomorrow, with the senior game commencing at 2pm.

In other round 13 matches, Tarrawingee takes on Bright at home, the Blues head across to Goorambat, Moyhu makes the trip to Bonnie Doon, and the Lions play Benalla All Blacks at Whorouly.

Young Hoppers hoping to upset Bombers

By NATHAN de VRIES

DESPITE a tumultuous season so far, Moyhu’s A graders are fired up and determined to make finals, but it’s going to be a challenge.

The Hoppers sit eighth on the ladder, and will need to upset some teams higher on the ladder than themselves to find their way into the six.

Coach Sharlene Wohlers said her side had struggled with consistency earlier in the year, but were ready to make their case for September action.

“We’ve just got to consistently play four quarters,” she said.

“We’re actually gelling really well, that’s not the issue – there are passages of play that are absolutely brilliant, you can’t ask for any better transition from one end to the other, but then there’s some poor decision-making every now

and then that creeps in.

“Maybe the opposition team gets a few goals and takes off, and there’s a bit of panic.

“We’ve been working together as a team one night a week, we’ve started doing some stuff by ourselves which has made a difference, even against Whorouly we were super competitive in defence all the way down the court.

“I look forward to the second half of the year.”

The Hoppers head down to Bonnie Doon tomorrow without shooter Sophie Morey, with Holly Vincent taking her place in goals alongside Zara Berry.

“Zara and Sophie started off in goals together, and Holly was playing B grade, she sat on my bench for a few games and I brought her on for a couple of quarters here and there,” Wohlers said.

“She played well, and I

spoke to her about three weeks ago about permanently bringing her up into A grade, she’s been holding her own and shooting well.

“It’s having that new combination of Zara and Holly together in the ring, but Zara’s an outstanding player as well.”

The last time Moyhu took on the Bombers was back in round four, a 51-63 loss, but Wohlers said her side could provide the upset.

“We’re absolutely a better side than we were in round four, but obviously Bonnie Doon’s improved as well,” she said.

“Tayla Ward’s been playing really well in the last couple of weeks, her agility and speed on the court’s been outstanding.

“We’re really excited and pumped knowing it was fairly close that first match - hopefully Hoppers come away with the win.”

“Struggling” Benalla All

Blacks focus on improving

BETWEEN injuries, inconsistencies and player numbers, the season has been difficult for Benalla All Blacks.

After the dual flags in 2022, the Panthers find themselves seventh on the reserve ladder and last in the ones.

Despite this change of fate, senior coach Nich Spencer said his squad was focussing on building a formidable defensive unit and taking each week as it comes.

“We’re still struggling a little bit – our injury list is almost as long as our game day list at the moment,

BY NATHAN DE VRIES ndevries@ nemedia.com.au

we’ve got the whiteboard up in the club rooms with plenty of names on it,” he said.

“We’re trying to work on our backline, got some young blokes playing back at the moment.

“Guys like Jesse Walker, David Button, Josh Hyland, Tom Levy’s floated back a bit as well.

“We’re just trying to get the right mix in that backline, obviously they’re

heavily under the pump lately, we’re just trying to get that right, get some confidence back there to back themselves in.”

Several younger players have stepped up and taken leadership roles within the team, eager to improve both their game and their squad as a whole.

“Most of those blokes came over the year before we brought in a heap of people, they’re starting to find their voice now and step into that role,” Spencer said.

“Kieran Linke has been our biggest surprise.

“He’s super smart with

the footy, his disposals are really good – he’s probably only 65kg dripping wet I reckon, but he’s always in and under and leading from the front.

“Blokes like Jesse Walker as well, he’s been playing backline the last few weeks now and keeps improving.

“He’s pretty hard on himself on the training track, he’s turned into a good young leader at the club, I’m really happy with the way he’s going.”

The Panthers head up the Hume Freeway to take on the Lions at Whorouly tomorrow, with Spencer citing the desire to take each

quarter as it comes and improve where they can.

“I think over the last few weeks we’ve been really competitive in the first quarter and probably had at least half or most of the possession – we just haven’t been able to capitalise in front of goal, it’s been one of our biggest issues,” he said.

“The second quarter’s been our worst all year consistently.

“We’re just going to try and make sure we can put together a first half and worry about that, reset at half-time and just take it slow, one quarter at a time.”

TIME TO FIRE: Tayla Ward and the Hoppers take on the fourth placed Bombers to start their build into finals.

PHOTO: Nathan de Vries

GAME BY GAME: Benalla coach Nich Spencer said his squad was focussing on incremental improvements every week.

PHOTO: Garry Jones

Another Rovers’ legend makes prestigous O&M Hall of Fame

ANTHONY Pasquali is the latest Wangaratta Rovers player to be named in the Ovens and Murray Hall of Fame.

Pasquali was announced as the latest inductee yesterday, joining this year’s nominations including Ritchie ‘Tank’ Castles (Benalla), Matt Fowler (Albury) and Daniel Leslie (North Albury) in the select club.

He timed his entry into the Ovens and Murray with Wangaratta Rovers to perfection. With a thirds best and fairest and exposure at reserves level under his belt, Pasquali graduated into senior ranks in the mid-1980s where he would star for the next two decades.

A noted big game player, Pasquali was a member of the club’s 1988, 1991 and 1994 premiership teams, with a foot stress fracture robbing him of a spot in another flag in 1993.

Five times he finished in the top-3 of the Rovers best and fairest behind club champion and good mate, Rob Walker.

Pasquali also relished the challenge of playing for the O and M, which he did 12 times.

He also made seven appearances for Victoria Country. His only time away from Rovers and the O and M was when he accepted the coaching job at Benalla which saw him make the move to the Goulburn Valley in 1998.

Castles debuted for Benalla in 1957 at the age of 17, but a

car accident forced him onto the sidelines the following year before he returned to make the back pocket his own in a team on the rise.

He won Benalla’s best and fairest in 1960 and spent the following year playing alongside his uncle Dick Reynolds at West Torrens in the SANFL.

Upon his return, Castles played in Benalla’s back-toback flags in 1962 and 1963 under former Fitzroy player Vin Williams.

Castles was among the Demons’ best in the 1963 triumph over Corowa when they kicked eight goals to nil in the final quarter to cruise to the flag.

Castles was picked in the Ovens and Murray Team of the Century in the back pocket.

Fowler’s journey to Albury’s games record holder and one of the most dominant forwards of his era began in 1993.

Two years after making his debut, Fowler was one of the young guns of the Tigers’ first leg of a premiership hat-trick that began with a narrow win over Wodonga.

Twelve months later Albury triumphed again with Fowler among the Tigers’ best with the hat-trick completed a year later against Wodonga Raiders.

Resisting offers to move interstate, Fowler also became a permanent fixture in an Ovens and Murray interleague team, riding the wave of unprec-

edented success in the Victorian Country Championships with 16 appearances for the league.

His highest goal tally in a match for Albury was 11, and his career tally of 812 goals puts him third on the all-time list behind two other Hall of Famers in Steve Norman and Stan Sargeant.

Fowler’s second run of premiership success came late in his career with another hattrick of flags from 2009.

Loyal to the core, Leslie played his entire Ovens and Murray career with North Albury that would end with him as the club’s games record holder.

His father Trevor was a best and fairest winner and premiership player with Albury, but from the moment Leslie joined the Hoppers under 17’s, Bunton Park became his lifetime football home with the exception of a brief stint in the west.

Leslie started his long career at centre half-back before being switched to centre halfforward.

He was the Hoppers’ leading goal-kicker for four successive seasons from 2009, finishing with 354 career goals and twice kicking 10 goals in a match.

Leslie was also North Albury’s best and fairest winner three times in 2013, 2015 and 2017, and captained the club for seven years from 2008.

Wangaratta City men return from huge 28 day break

By WILLSON MACK

WANGARATTA City’s men

finally return to play on Sunday after an astonishing 28 days between drinks.

With a league bye and a number of club byes throughout the month of June, the Devils haven’t played since June 4 when they lost to Boomers 0-3, but will return with a clash against St Pat’s at Alexandra Park on Sunday.

Wangaratta City coach Raff Molinaro is hopeful his side return back to play seamlessly.

“We’ll definitely be taking them really seriously and

won’t be expecting an easy game given we’re coming off such a long break,” Molinaro said.

“It’s our first game in three weeks so we won’t be taking it easy and I’ll be making sure everyone’s focused and ready to go.”

Along with the fixturing issues, Wangaratta City has also had trouble with training with South Wangaratta Reserve out of action due to the pitch being too wet.

The Devils have been training at Appin Street Athletics Complex, along with indoor sessions at the Wangaratta Indoor Sports

and Aquatic Centre.

“We’ve been having to train in different places and have been struggling to train two sessions a week,” Molinaro said.

“We’ll probably be basing selection on who’s been putting in the work over the break because the boys have had to do running sessions in their own time.

“I’ve had the boys send me running sessions so those that have been doing that we want to reward them for showing commitment.”

Although Wangaratta took out their round nine clash 8-2 against St Pat’s, the Paddies

grabbed an early lead scoring the first goal in the 19th minute.

Molinaro wants his side to start well this time around.

“They actually got up early on us last time so we don’t want that to happen again,” he said.

“We want to put pressure on them from the get go and try and start well.

“We want to make sure we control the game early.”

The Devils have the majority of their squad available for selection after players recovered from injuries and soreness over the break.

Sunday’s clash starts at 3pm.

Sunday, July 2

JUNIORS: FROM 9:55AM

D2

WOMEN: 9:50AM

D1 MEN: 3:00PM

BIG RETURN: Stoycho Ivanov and Wangaratta City play their first game in 28 days against St Pat’s on Sunday.

AMONG THE GREATS: Anthony Pasquali (pictured in his heyday) has been named in the O&M Hall of Fame.

ONLY THE BEST: (From left) Anthony Pasquali, Ron Montgomery (chair, OMFNL Hall of Fame sub-committee), Ritchie Castles, and David Sinclair (chairman, SS&A Ovens and Murray Football Netball League) at yesterday’s announcement.

Magpies not taking Dogs lightly

By WILLSON MACK

WANGARATTA’S hot form rolls on with the ‘Pies set to take on Wodonga at Martin Park tomorrow.

Fresh off dismantling archrivals Wangaratta Rovers in last weekend’s derby, the Magpies will be gunning for seven straight wins.

The Bulldogs showed plenty of promise early on in the year winning five straight but have dropped off in recent weeks to sit in fourth position with a five wins, four losses record.

Wangaratta fell to Wodonga in round two by 24-points but have come a long way since then.

Wangaratta coach Ben Reid said his side won’t be taking the Dogs lightly.

“Wodonga touched us up in round two so we won’t be taking them lightly,” Reid said.

“We saw first-hand a couple of months ago how handy they are so we’re going to have to be switched on, particularly with our full ground defence.

“They like to kick, mark so our defence will need to be on.”

The Dogs will be eager to bounce back after losing to North Albury in round 10 and superstar Angus Baker will be looking to lead the charge.

Baker’s been a standout in the O&M this year, averaging over 31 disposals a game.

“Baker’s arguably in the top two or three in the competition and he killed us in round two,” Reid said.

“We’ll have to wait and see what we do with him but I think we’ll trust our mids to get the job done.

“Our midfield will be eager to respond after getting beaten by them in round two so they’ll be chomping at the bit.”

After missing two weeks with a bye when they were scheduled to face CorowaRutherglen and then missing the first week of the split round before playing Rovers, the Magpies now have a clear run home.

“We’ve been playing better for longer over the past few weeks but it’s only the end of June so there’s still a long way to go,” Reid said.

“We enjoyed the win on Sunday but we moved on pretty quickly and now we’re focused on the last two months of the season before finals.”

The only forced change the Magpies will need to make will be bringing someone in for Brad Melville who returns to VFL duties with Richmond.

Wangaratta netballers looking for control

By WILLSON MACK

WANGARATTA A grade netballers will no doubt start tomorrow’s match against the second last placed Wodonga as heavy favourites as the ‘Pies look to build on their strong form.

After showing some brilliant netball in their 40-goal win over Rovers on Sunday, Wangaratta will want to build on that performance before meeting ladder leaders Yarrawonga next weekend.

Wangaratta co-coach Hannah Grady said she’s looking from a four quarter performance from her side.

“There are definitely a few things we need to polish,” Grady said.

“Hopefully we can improve on a few things and then try and implement them this weekend.

“We’ve been building over the past few weeks and we know in

previous years that we’re playing our best come finals but we’ve got a few tough games going into finals this year so we need to be playing well a bit earlier.”

Although the ‘Pies won easily against the Hawks, Grady said her side was messy at times.

“The focus for us this weekend is on our speed and making sure we’re not losing control of it,” she said.

“In the first quarter last weekend we had a few chaotic passages of play that meant we needed to slow down.

“We’ll be looking to control the ball a lot better on Saturday.”

Georgia Clark and Amanda Umanski combined for their best game together since Umanski returned from an ACL injury against Rovers and Grady couldn’t be happier to have the pair.

“It was great to see those two get a good run at it on the week-

end,” she said.

“It’s so good having Amanda back and she’s starting to find her feet again and I’m sure they’ll only start working better together over the next few weeks.

“Amanda’s been playing some VNL as well which has helped her get back into it.”

After a two week spell before the derby clash Grady said her side is feeling refreshed.

“Some of the girls were saying at training how good they’re feeling after the break,” she said.

“Unfortunately Ellie (Cooper) and I didn’t get that break because we played for the O&M on the week off but the girls are feeling good.

“We’re all eager to get back into it and really attack the back end of the year.”

Meanwhile, Rovers will host the third-placed Wodonga Raiders at home tomorrow.

Rovers ready for Raiders

WANGARATTA Rovers want to put a tough few weeks behind them when they face Wodonga Raiders at WJ Findlay Oval tomorrow.

After spectacularly beating Yarrawonga in round eight and announcing themselves as a genuine finals contender, the Hawks have suffered two disappointing losses since at the hands of North Albury and Wangaratta.

“We’re certainly looking forward to getting back on

BY WILLSON MACK wmack@ nemedia.com.au

our deck and regrouping after a tough couple of weeks,” Sullivan said.

“Wangaratta were too good last weekend so we just need to focus on what we can do to improve but the sun comes up and we have to move forward.

“At the same time we can’t

HOME GAME

accept that result so I’m sure everyone’s looking to improve.”

This season could be one of the most even in recent times with all teams besides Myrtleford and Raiders in the finals hunt.

Raiders nearly toppled Rovers in round two with the Hawks only just winning by seven points and have shown that when brute midfielder Cam Ellis-Yolmen is on, they can take it up to anyone.

“On their day anyone is capable of winning and Wodonga Raiders are no different,” Sullivan said.

“We saw in round two that they can get their tails up and put in a good performance.

“They showed that they can be hard to get over the top of, they’re an enthusiastic group that’s well coached by Marc Almond.”

Sullivan couldn’t find a reason for the Hawks drop in form but admitted the derby

was simply a case of Wangaratta playing too well.

“Last weekend was more of a case of the opposition playing too well, we couldn’t apply the pressure that we have for most of the season,” he said.

“They were running strong and using the ball really well as opposed to us who didn’t have composure.”

The Hawks will lose VFLlisted players Ryan Hebron and Nathan Cooper as they return to the state league.

NEXT HOME GAME

RAIDERS CHALLENGE: Jack Gerrish and Wangaratta Rovers play Wodonga Raiders at home tomorrow.

PHOTO: Marc Bongers

BUILDING: Issy Newton and Wangaratta are in solid form ahead of their cladh with Wodonga.

PHOTO: Marc Bongers

Wangaratta Rangers A grade to host Porepunkah

THERE were no games of North East Baseball last weekend due to Wangaratta being host to the Victorian Country Under 18s Championships which were unfortunately washed out due to wet grounds.

This weekend sees round

nine being played on Sunday with the following games;

A Grade

Wodonga Warriors vs Albury Bears at Gayview Park, Wodonga.

Wangaratta Rangers Black vs Porepunkah Pan-

thers at Targoora Park, Wangaratta.

B Grade

Wangaratta Rangers Grey vs Porepunkah Panthers at Targoora Park, Wangaratta. Wodonga Warriors vs Albury Bears at Gayview Park, Wodonga.

Rangers Orange vs Benalla Bandits at Targoora Park, Wangaratta.

C Grade

Wodonga Warriors vs Albury Bears at Gayview Park, Wodonga.

Rangers vs Porepunkah Panthers at Targoora Park.

Under 12s Wodonga Warriors vs Albury Bears at Gayview Park.

Rangers vs Benalla Bandits at Targoora Park, Wangaratta.

There is a bye in the u15s as the u14s Championships

are being played in Bendigo and North East have a rep team attending.

There is also an all girls baseball carnival in the juniors playing at Bendigo this weekend also with North East representing a team as well.

A family affair at Oxley table tennis

LIKE the stock exchange, recent numbers have been up and down at the Oxley social table tennis competition; but 21 bravehearts invested in and earned more than their money’s worth of physical and social enjoyment at the Oxley hall last Monday night.

Hot to trot from 7 o’clock were Neil Brock and the unknown quantity June Uebergang, when they lined up against ‘winter wackabout’ Debbie Brunken and Brian from back o’Bourke.

In a great game of skill and determination the lead fluctuated for what seemed an eternity.

And as each player, par-

THE INNER SANCTUM

ticularly one, was showing signs of slowing down the match finally came to a close with big handshakes and laughter with scores reading 20 each.

In the c ouple’s event the crafty Joyce Fisher and husband John challenged the ‘couple from the crossroads’, Alison and Graham Stephens.

With each player displaying their signature strengths, the whole match left onlookers winning and losing their bets as to which pair would win.

But from the word go it was anybody’s game, and ‘anybody’ ultimately won in a tie-breaker.

Play.AFL App

When big hitter Clive Brooker began pulling his hair out while trying to figure out what trick the mini fast flying Kate Cole was going to throw up next in their singles encounter, he and those watching knew it was going to be a corker.

Taking at least 14 strokes to determine a point, it was tough and tenacious from beginning to end.

Final scores were 21-20, one way or the other.

Adam’s family feud starring Adam, Jane, Phoebe and Millie Bosley were all in good form as they paired up in the first of many sets each played during the night.

The new Play AFL App is now available to download from the Apple Store or Google Play!

The app has been built for community football fans and contains fixtures, ladders, results, and statistics for all leagues using PlayHQ! Community footy fans can follow their favourite players, clubs, grades and leagues which gives you easy access to all the information you care about. It is quick and easy to use, and you have all the information you need in the palm of your hands.

Download the app now from your app store and check it out!

WDJFL Coach Workshop

AFL North East Border and the Insite Real Estate Wangaratta and District Junior Football League are excited to provide the following Coaching Workshop opportunity for both coaches and presidents within the league.

While Adam played the big stuff, Millie topped it off with her deft touch, putting the racquetball star Jane and the pacy precision of Phoebe under pressure.

However it was a case of happy family, when cuddles all round confirmed it was all god fun.

When Simon says go, Simon goes, and this motto was delivered in spades when and ‘LOL’ Lucy Uebergang joined forces to pull the mat from under Debbie Brunken and Will Bonwick who ‘steaks’ his claim on victory well before the deal is cooked.

Shot for shot was all the

Our second session of the year will focus on Coaching at Training & Club Coach Environments, the session will comprise of the following -

– A Practical Session with Justin McMahon covering off Fundamentals, connecting training and game

– Coaches and Presidents

– Building a positive coaching environment within clubs with Justin McMahon and best practice examples

We know that one of the biggest factors in retaining junior players in sport and football is positive experiences with their junior coaches and the environment they are in, if kids have a positive experience with their coaches they are much more likely to keep coming back the following years.

When

– Monday 10th of July

– 6:30pm to 8:30pm

– Wangaratta Sports Development Centre (Wangaratta Showgrounds)

go with Brown showing ‘wheelie’ good anticipation and return delivery, while Uebergang contributed by putting a spanner in Brunken and Bonwick’s advances that came hard and fast.

But the deciding blow came when Brown spun his wheel and his and Uebergang’s number came up trumps.

In what could have been a Commonwealth Games qualifying event, Martin, the Butcher and Richard ‘the baker’ Morgan threw out the challenge for selection to jumping Jason Mullins and the man about town Manni Poulos.

Umpire Come & Try Events

The AFL North East Border Umpire group is always keen to welcome along some new faces, and these school holidays we will be hosting two Come & Try events for anyone interested in giving umpiring a go!

– Tuesday 4th July at Wareena Park from 2pm to 3pm

Wodonga – Thursday 6th July at Les Cheesly Oval from 2pm to 3pm

Umpiring is a great way to get involved in football, you get front row seats to the action, meet new people and make new friends, increase and maintain fitness levels as well as making some extra money on the weekends!

Contact maison.ring@aflneb.com.au for more information.

As they fought gallantly, spectators sipped a cuppa while salivating the intensity of the game in front of them. Final scores were not recorded, but nothing was left on the table in their fight for glory.

Another enjoyable night concluded when everyone gathered to replenish lost stamina with a cuppa and a supper.

Adults and secondary school students of all ages and abilities are welcome to join the action at the Oxley hall on Monday nights beginning at 7pm. Bring your own bat, $2 entry fee and a plate to share.

PRIME TIME: Neil Brock, June Ubergang, Brian Bourke and Debbie Brunken were keen and eager at Oxley table tennis on Monday night.

PHOTO: Jason Mullins

News, Results, Events

30 Ovens St, Wangaratta

P:

Thursday, June 29

Brisbane Lions vs. Richmond (G)

Friday, June 30

Sydney Swans vs. Geelong Cats (SCG)

Saturday, July 1

Adelaide Crows vs. North Melbourne (AO)

Western Bulldogs vs. Fremantle (MRVL) (OS) (N)

Gold Coast SUNS vs. Collingwood (MS)

Essendon vs. Port Adelaide (MCG)

Sunday, July 2

Hawthorn vs. Carlton (MCG)

Melbourne vs. GWS GIANTS (TP)

West Coast Eagles vs. St Kilda (OS)

leaderboard after round

Dameon Holmes ..85

Max Webster ......84

Chris Doyle .........84

Tom the Baker .....84

Brett Anderson ....84

Jess Maddy .........83

Dave Harrop .......83

Beth Watson .......83

Jack Lancaster .....83

Nick Bell ...............82

Rob Bell ................82

Sean Barrett ..........80

Carlo De Napoli ....79

Kent Wathen .........78

Pranav Menon .......78

Kay Reid ...............78

James Salafia .........77

Shayne Gannon ....76

Tom McCurdy .......75

Jack Penny .............74 Trent Terry .............73

Cassie Hall .............71 Helen Haines ........69

Shayne

Pasquali named in O&M hall of fame

Page 35

CHILLY MORNING

DESPITE a cold winter’s morning, Chad and Logan Vincent still had a hit at the Wangaratta Golf Club’s driving range on Saturday.

Devils’ Hall of Famers

Wangaratta City legends Sam Sgarioto, Sal Verde and John De Luca inducted into AWFA HOF gygg,

THREE of Wangaratta City FC’s most generous servants were inducted into the inaugural Albury Wodonga Football Association Hall of Fame last Saturday night.

The Hall of Fame was opened in celebration of the association’s 50 years of activity,

having been formed in 1973. The initial class of 24 inductees from across the league featured such homegrown international stars as Archie Thompson and Josh Kennedy, but it was Wangaratta’s local heroes who shone on the night.

Club legends Sam Sgarioto, Sal Verde and John De Luca were all selected for the Hall of Fame from a shortlist of 50 potentials, due to their unwavering commitment to the league and their club over decades of playing, coaching,

refereeing and administration.

AWFA president Greg Scott said the Hall of Fame induction was a small way of expressing thanks to those who have made the league what is it today.

“This is an amazing mile-

stone for the association, but it can only happen with the contribution of a large number of people,” he said.

“The strength of football in this region is a credit to those people during our 50 years.”

Stephen Hayes, Wayne Fraser, Mark Leman, Ian Bel-

gre, David Pye, Vince Pica, Bill Luders, Hans Laramee, Nick Andronicus, Carlo Villani, Cobb Millyn, Franco Bertazzo, Ivan Janissen, Jennifer Barlow, Amy Chapman, Sheena Storrie, Scott Kidd, Tony Barlow and Angela Ianotta were also inducted.

Scoreboard: Page 33

PHOTO: Kurt Hickling