Chronicle Friday 310524

NEW LOOK ENTRANCE

LANDHOLDERS along the King River from Cheshunt to Moyhu are calling for urgent action to be taken to address significant flood damage which they say is impacting properties and affecting the long-term health of the waterway.

The property owners have identified numerous sites of concern along the

BY ANITA McPHERSON amcpherson@ nemedia.com.au

King River, where they say repeated flood events and a lack of maintenance has led to debris blockages, sediment islands, erosion of prime agricultural land and loss of riparian habitat, while destroying infrastruc-

ture put in place decades ago to prevent the damage from happening.

Many of them say they have raised the issues repeatedly over the years with the North East Catchment Management Authority (NECMA), with 13 landholders writing to NECMA and signing a petition calling for them to address the problem four years ago.

The authority responded and acknowledged the problem but said it “was not in a position to contribute financially” to the works, instead saying it would “help facilitate consent” for them to do it themselves.

Late last year, NECMA CEO Katie Warner defended pushing the responsibility back onto landholders, saying while it had a regulatory

LOCAL bricklayer Des Smith was one of the first to check out the new entrance to Wangaratta Railway Station yesterday. Des came down especially to view the new look area and the dive that has now been filled in as part of the Inland Rail’s transformation of the station.

role under the Water Act 1989 to authorise flood mitigations activities, it “does not have a responsibility to carry out flood mitigation activities on waterways themselves”.

Ms Warner advised that NECMA planned to consult with communities during the next two years to revise its North East Regional Waterway Strategy (2014)

Steve Kelly

which outlined its regional goals and guided its works programs. The issue has come to a head once again after NECMA held three drop-in sessions in Oxley, Moyhu and Cheshunt last month, where it said it was seeking community input for the development of a Rehabilitation Plan.

■ Continued page 12

PHOTO:

Meet Bubbles artist Alexander Knox in OxleyWoman airlifted to hospital after fwy crash

THE Rural City of Wangaratta is inviting the community to an artist meet and greet event being held tomorrow at the Oxley Hall from 2.30pm to 4pm.

Community members who are interested in finding out more about the much-anticipated large-scale Prosecco Road gateway sculpture are invited to come along.

There will be Prosecco on arrival and light catering

provided (all welcome, no bookings required).

The commissioned artist Alexander Knox is attending and will provide insights into the inspiration and research that informed his response to the artist’s brief.

The iconic sculpture titled ‘Bubbles in the landscape’ aims to create a distinctive sense of arrival to the King Valley region. The artwork is to be posi-

tioned at the Oxley township entrance on the intersection of the Snow Road and Wangaratta-Whitfield Road.

The $350,000 Prosecco Road Sculpture commission is one aspect of a larger project that has been enabled by $4M in funding from the Victorian Government, as part of the King Valley Prosecco Road Revitalisation Project, initiated by Tourism North East.

By BAILEY ZIMMERMANN

A 42-YEAR-OLD Glenrowan woman was airlifted to hospital in a critical condition after her car collided with a barrier on the Hume Freeway near Winton yesterday afternoon.

Police said it was understood the sole-occupant and driver of a car crashed into a barrier, just past the Bowers Road turnoff at about 12.15pm.

An Ambulance Victoria spokesperson said the woman suffered a suspected medical episode and was airlifted to Bendigo Base Hospital in a critical condition.

Police and paramedics attended the scene, with the woman being assessed at the crash.

An air ambulance was dispatched along with advanced life support and mobile

intensive care units. The scene was deemed safe at around 1:24pm. Police said the exact circumstances surrounding the crash are yet to be determined and investigations are ongoing.

Anyone with information, dashcam vision or anyone who witnessed the crash is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Cr Herry fails to rescind motion against state planning fast-track

BY STEVE KELLY skelly@ nemedia.com.au

COUNCILLOR Jack Herry has failed in his attempt to have a motion of resolution rescinded that will activate council to appeal State Government legislation that fasttracks renewable energy facility planning applications at the state tribunal.

An initial motion, which also prompted council to ask the government to support the protection of agricultural land for food, fibre and viticultural production, was passed at the April council meeting with the mayor’s vote deciding a 3-all split in favour.

Cr Herry submitted a Notice of Recission post-meeting to have the matter addressed at the May council meeting that took place on Tuesday.

The Notice of Recission was on the grounds that the vote was made by “a partial council” - Cr Ashlee Fitzpatrick was not in attendance.

“It was a controversial motion, I think it’s fair to say, and it was passed on the casting vote of the mayor, so I thought it not unreasonable to have time to be exposed to the community, have some airing time, and time for people to think about the issues and considerations behind it,” he said.

Brendan Perry-Van Der Hayden, through a written question, asked councillors who voted against the initiating motion whether they hold any shares in solar farms

or are receiving foundings (funds) from solar farms.

All three councillors Herry, Harry Bussell and Dave Fuller replied no.

While Tom James asked whether Cr Harvey Benton, who introduced the initial motion against the State Government’s legislation, would vote against all planning permits to subdivide or build on productive land or ‘is it just solar farms he is against’?

“Will Cr Benton vote against any planned housing estates around Wangaratta as this land is also productive farmland and can never be farmed again,” he said.

Cr Benton described the

question as “presumptuous” and that he would judge every decision by its own merits.

Prominent advocate and member of the Meadow Creek Agricultural Community Action Group, John Conroy, who lives near a proposed solar facility on 566ha of land, posed several questions to Cr Herry around the stripping of people’s rights to appeal planning decisions.

“We’re not objecting to solar farms in the municipality, we’re trying to defend the right of people to go to VCAT and put their case forward,” he said.

Cr Herry said the reason why the appeal processes

were curtailed is because there is an urgency for transitioning energy sources.

“Energy being an absolutely critical, fundamental aspect of our society, so there is an urgency around that and how we navigate that,” he said.

“The processes have led to long, protracted delays, and in any industry transitioning there needs to be certaintythere is a significant amount of investment, assets, large players involved.

“The same thing has been done with housing, providing the opportunity for people to get their expedited processes where appeal processes have been removed.”

Cr Herry spoke for another five minutes after questions from the gallery and highlighted his views that the initial motion contained several “falsehoods”.

The motion to rescind the previous motion was seconded by Cr Bussell but was voted down 5-2.

After the meeting Cr Fitzpatrick said she watched the previous council meeting to look at all the arguments around the topic, but “it was made more complex than what was needed”.

“Doing an action plan, you can add those things in there when you’re advocating to State Government,”

DIFFERENT VIEW: Cr Jack Herry (centre) had trouble seeing merit in the motion for council to advocate against the State Government’s legislation which has removed the VCAT process with planning matters concerning renewable energy facilities.

Cr Fitzpatrick said.

“If you want to focus on social housing and not just solar farms, we can do that, and that’s the purpose of an advocacy document and an action plan.

“It felt that my voted needed to be with that so we can have that conversation and direct how it is.

“That was the less complex solution, that I found.”

Cr Fuller also voted against the motion to rescind, however, he clarified after the meeting that he still stood by his stance not to support the initial motion, however, he didn’t support overruling his colleagues.

ALL FOR AGRICULTURE: Meadow Creek Agricultural Community Action Group members (from left) Anna, Isla, Will, Jess, Jack Conroy, Darren Edwards, and Debbie and John Conroy before the meeting at Wangaratta council. PHOTO: Steve Kelly

Extra cash for our roads

THE Rural City of Wangaratta will benefit from a share of the $4.4 billion in Roads to Recovery funding over the next five years.

The federal government has committed to progressively double the program’s funding to $1b annually from 2024-25.

The funding increase will allow local governments to plan for the long-term maintenance and upgrade of their road network, shielding critical road safety measures from the uncertainty of budget cycles.

Federal Government doubles Roads to Recovery funding to $1b in FY25 G y f g $ 2

BY STEVE KELLY skelly@ nemedia.com.au

Roads to Recovery supports local road construction and maintenance by local government.

It directly impacts the quality of our local roads, allows for potholes to be filled, pavements to be repaired, culverts to be installed to improve drainage and keep roads open during bad

COMMUNITY PANTRY FOR THOSE IN NEED AT NESAY

By JORDAN DUURSMA

NORTH East Support and Action for Youth (NESAY) is rolling out a community pantry at its Rowan Street base in Wangaratta, Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm.

This mobile pantry ensures easy access to essential items for any community members in need.

Expect a rotating selection of seasonal and purchased goods onboard, with additional items like blankets becoming available as they’re acquired.

NESAY transitional services manger Claire Anderson said the community pantry is open to everyone.

“This is a response to the increased need in the community,” she said.

“We are well aware of the high cost of living and the affect that has, particularly on our young people.

“We are aware of the impact it has.

“We have had positive feedback and the pantry has been getting well used.

“We have found the response has been really positive, people don’t take everything, they just take what they need.

“It’s really easy access here, people walking past can come and help themselves.

StreetSmart Australia has provided funding to get the initiative

weather, and helps makes sure we all get home safely.

“We welcome the additional funding for road maintenance, which is crucial given the recent impact of wet conditions on our roads,” rural city CEO Brendan McGrath said.

“Over time, council has significantly increased its road maintenance budgets, particularly for gravel roads.

“This extra support will enable us to enhance our efforts further.

“While we don’t have a specific figure yet, any increase will be utilised effectively to benefit all road users.”

Victorian councils will receive $895 million over five years, an increase of $368 million.

Roads to Recovery funding for each local government area is determined based on factors such as population and road length.

At this stage it’s the main federal government infrastructure funding council

will receive in 2024-25 with several project applications through the Growing Regions Program missing out.

These include $8m for a new community hub at Wareena Park, $1.5m for the Wangaratta Creative Arts Precinct, and money for the improvement of the rail trail to connect to the King Valley.

Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minis-

ter Catherine King said local councils “are our trusted

off the ground but it will run on donations once the funding ends.

Donations to the community pantry are welcomed.

“Any contributions will go a long way and financial donations are tax deductible,” Ms Anderson said.

“We had a donation of blankets from the Glenrowan vet and we will accept donations of groceries.

“We have sanitary items, blankets and things like shower gel available.”

A community pantry is also stationed at NESAY’s Benalla Commu-

nity Hub on 52 Carrier Street from 10am to 2pm.

Benalla Community Services Hub is a partnership between 12 health and community agencies working from the one location.

The pantries have been affectionately named Flo and Esme.

“The NESAY home used to be both a private and returned soldiers hospital in Wangaratta, being called Westham,” Ms Anderson said.

“We have been able to ascertain that one of the matrons that

worked in the hospital was named Florence Nevett.

“Given this, we called our community pantry trolley Flo, as a nod to the matron’s service during the hospital years.

“Our Benalla Hub doesn’t have the same history, so we chose to go with names of a similar vintage for the trolley, and Esme seemed appropriate, and just as special as Flo.”

For more information or to contact NESAY visit https://nesay.com. au/ or call 03 5720 2201.

delivery partners and they know where the work on local roads is most needed to improve safety”.

Regional Development, Local Government and Territories Minister Kristy McBain said councils across Australia have consistently asked for more support so that they can better maintain and upgrade their road networks, especially with the severe weather events that have so heavily impacted local infrastructure in recent years.

Caravan alight in Laceby grass fire

By BAILEY ZIMMERMANN

A CARAVAN was engulfed in flames as a result of an ongoing 15-acre grass fire at Laceby on Wednesday.

A CFA spokesperson said 16 local CFA units alongside FRV responded to a grass and scrub fire at Griffiths Lane at around 1.43pm. The spokesperson said the incident was under control at around 3:30pm.

Police were also called to the scene for traffic management. An advice notice was posted on VicEmergency, as smoke was visible in the area.

Firefighters were kept busy throughout Wednesday afternoon, with two smaller grass and scrub fires being attended to at around the same time.

A FRV spokesperson said CFA and FRV crews worked to contain a small grass fire at Wonga Park Drive, Waldara, at around 2:40pm, with the incident deemed under control at 3:04pm.

CFA also responded to a grass fire at North Wangaratta at around 1:55pm.

A CFA spokesperson said four units from Eldorado, North Wangaratta, Bowser and Everton responded to the blaze which burnt through around half an acre in land.

“The fire had spread to trees on the road side,” the spokesperson said.

The incident was deemed under control at 2:56pm.

COMMUNITY PANTRY: Lynelle Nash and Claire Anderson with community pantry ‘Flo’ who is stocked up with groceries for anyone in need.

PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

Breaking down the fourth wall

BY SHANE DOUTHIE sdouthie@ nemedia.com.au

DIRECTOR Brad Buckingham had always held a yearning to direct The Long Road by Shelagh Stephenson ever since he was involved in a production of the play in Melbourne with Eltham Little Theatre Company, before he and wife Kathy relocated to Beechworth several years ago.

Then he was stage manager but as the play unfolded and was finally performed Brad’s desire to direct it himself one day only grew.

When he responded to a callout from Wangaratta Players for directors last year he was quick to apply and was overjoyed when he was given the go ahead to direct this production.

“I love this play,” he said.

“I love its sparseness.

“As you will see, the set is minimal, with the lighting, sound and costume designs also simple.

“I also love how in this play, a play of loss and grief, we hear not just from the grieving family as they cope with the sudden murder of a child and brother, but also the girl who commits the murder.

“We rarely hear the voice of the criminal.”

The story follows the aftermath of the death of 18-year-old Danny who is fatally stabbed in a random attack and how his family struggles to find meaning and forgiveness.

His mother Mary’s determination to understand the atrocity brings her face to face with his killer and forces the family to confront the bitter senselessness of their loss.

Stephenson was commissioned to write The Long Road in England by the Synergy Theatre Project and, in collaboration with The Forgiveness Project, started to work on a play about forgiveness and restorative justice.

Her research took her to

DIRECTOR BRAD MCPHERSON EXPLAINS HIS PASSION FOR THE UPCOMING PRODUCTION OF THE LONG ROAD

prisons to meet prisoners and then the victims of the prisoners’ crimes.

Brad said he also delighted in the removal, at times, of that invisible fourth wall which separates the audience from the onstage action and direct contact with the characters.

“The play speaks to you, the audience. Literally,” he said.

“There are multiple scenes where the characters are talking with you.

“You’re not there listening in to a private musing (think of Shakespeare’s “To be or not to be”).

“Instead, you are the friend, the confidant or the support group members the characters are talking to.

“Mix this in with some traditional fourth wall scenes and it’s a lovely mix for the audience of observer and listener.

“The Stage Door is such a beautifully intimate theatre for such a play.

“I’m hoping that, in a sense, you can’t ‘hide’ in the audience and just be the passive theatregoer.

“You’re in the middle of this.”

The Long Road features Colette Quin as Mary, Jack Johnston as Joe (Danny’s brother), Shane Douthie as John, Mary’s husband, Makenzie Clark as Emma, the teenage homeless girl, and Miranda Schroeder as Elizabeth the social worker.

Despite the play’s heavy drama, Brad said there was some light as well.

“There is clearly a lot of pain experienced by characters in this play,” he said.

“Ultimately, though, we end on a note of care and compassion. “And hope.”

The play is recommended for mature audiences and contains adult themes, coarse language, and violence, and will be performed at The Stage Door Studio 4D Evans Street Wangaratta at 7.30pm on Friday, June 14 and 21, Saturday, June 15 and 22, and at 2pm Sunday, June 16 and 23.

Tickets are $30pp available now at https://www.trybooking. com/CRRUA.

For more information checkout the Wangaratta Players Facebook page.

ONE GREAT SHOW 2 GREAT ENTERTAINERS

GUIDING THE CAST: Director Brad Buckingham in deep concentration during rehearsals for Wangaratta Players upcoming production of The Long Road.

PHOTO: Shelley Bovenkamp

Savour a taste of Italy at the Fit for a King Festival

BY CHLOE JAENICKE cjaenicke@ nemedia.com.au

EXPERIENCE the joy of mixing wine and food at the Wines of the King Valley’s Fit For a King weekend celebrations on June 7 to June 9.

The wineries participating in the festival are Brown Brothers, La Cantina, Pizzini, John Gehrig, Dal Zotto, Darling Estate and Politini.

Natalie Pizzini from Pizzini Wines said no matter which winery you go to, you’ll have a completely unique experience.

Starting at the lower end of the King Valley, you have John Gehrig and Brown Brothers who can offer the best of both worlds in terms of dining experience.

“You’ve got the more refined elegant dining at Brown Brothers with about 30 wines in the wine range,” Ms Pizzini said.

“Then you go to John Gehrig which is a lovely quaint cellar door experience where you probably get to taste more of the fuller bodied wines that come from the region.”

In the upper King Valley you have La Cantina, Pizzini, Dal Zotto, Darling Estate and Politini, who all offer different Italian food and wines to enjoy.

the combination of food and wine.

“With the Weekend Fit for a King, you go from southern Italy to northern Italy and from to bold reds to lighter style reds and crisp Proseccos, so I think the joy is in the difference,” she said.

“The festival celebrates the fact that wine goes with food so well.

“The wine styles from the King Valley are made to go with food.”

In each ticket to the festival, you get access to all seven of the wineries as well as a common glass to use at all of them, which Ms Pizzini said was sorely missed during the COVID years.

“It was certainly an event that people really missed,” she said.

“If you want beautiful Sicilian style, if you’re looking for something from southern Italy the arancini from Politini are just the best,” Ms Pizzini said.

“If you have kids with you and you’re wanting Napoli pizza, then Dal Zotto is the best.

“And of course La Cantina have the best lasagne going around but the beauty of their wine styles is that they’re preservative free.”

This festival also allows you to learn about the history of wine making from the first family to grow grapes in the upper end of the King Valley.

Whatever you’re looking for, Ms Pizzini said the festival offers a taste of every region of Italy and celebrates

“You can head to Darling Estate and see Grace and Sophie to find out the history of wine making and grape growing in the upper end of the King Valley,” Ms Pizzini said.

“Post COVID it took a couple of years to get back into having that common glass or entry fee and now that it’s back people really love it and we’re excited to have it back.”

For more information on the festival or to buy tickets, visit https://www. winesofthekingvalley. com.au/weekend-fit-for-aking/#PROGRAM.

FIT FOR A KING: Shannon Pizzini, Reuben Corsini, Cristian Troncoso Jara, Robyn Hogan, Jasmine Baldry, Carmela Candoni, Matthew Reiter and Georgia Hamidon invite everyone to come to the King Valley for the Fit for a King Festival.

Tyre Straits on a mission

BY SIMONE KERWIN skerwin@ nemedia.com.au

GALEN Catholic College teacher Gerard Kelly is gearing up for a family road trip with a difference, as he and son Matt prepare to take part in June’s Winter Shitbox Rally.

The pair will leave on June 14, driving from Melbourne to Alice Springs in a 2003 Mazda 323 which has 345,000 km on the clock, in a week-long event raising funds and awareness for the Cancer Council.

In line with the event’s guideline that rally cars must be worth no more than $1500, Gerard purchased their vehicle for $1000.

“It’s a bit rough and has a few scratches, but that doesn’t matter,” Gerard said.

“I bought it in Queensland and drove it back here, and it made it alright, so I think it will be okay.”

Matt, a Broome-based doctor, took part in a 10th anniversary Shitbox Rally from Perth to Sydney in 2020 with his partner, so he has some experience of the event.

Gerard said the duo, who have named their team Tyre Straits, are prepared for the possibility of breakdowns or being bogged as they travel through the Simpson Desert, but with up to 240 rally

teams travelling in groups of 10, said everyone would be out to help each other.

“Matt and I have done a few big trips together; we went from Broome to Cairns a few years ago, and drove up through the middle of Western Australia through the Pilbara from Kalgoorlie to Broome,” he said.

“We’ve got a bit of knowledge, and could patch something up if need be, but they do also have a small team of mechanics to help out as well during the rally.”

The rally is not a race, but a fun, colourful, unpredictable adventure, with participants travelling at their own pace in smaller groups.

Each night is spent camping beneath the stars and celebrating the day’s achievements, providing the chance to see Australia and make life-long friends.

Like many involved in the event, Matt and Gerard’s main motivation is to help raise funds for research into cancer, which has impacted

a number of their family members and friends.

“It’s a dreadful disease, and several of the people who have donated to our team so far have similar stories to tell about it touching their own families,” Gerard said.

“Matt has seen his own family experience cancer, and also sees it every

day through his work.

“It’s a great cause, especially with the funds raised going to research.”

Tyre Straits have already raised almost $5000, and have a target of $7000.

To donate to the team’s effort, visit https://winter2024. shitboxrally.com.au/tyrestraits or scan the QR code on this page. Matt and Gerard have already received great support from a number of local businesses, and anyone keen to sponsor the team is encouraged to email gpkelly6@ gmail.com

Helping community members in need

NESAY needs the community’s help to assist those in need through their newly launched community pantry.

The aim of the community pantry is to ensure easy access to essential items for any community members in need.

It will be set up in a way that will allow people to walk in and help themselves to items that they need.

NESAY hopes to have a selection of seasonal and purchased goods onboard, with additional items like blankets becoming available as they’re required.

While the initiative currently has funding support from StreetSmart Australia to get it off the ground, NESAY will have to rely on the generosity of the community once this funding runs out.

All donations to the community pantry will go a long way to help those who are struggling, and they are also accepting financial donations.

Currently they already have some sanitary items, blankets and toiletries such as shower gel and they will also be accepting donations of groceries.

The community pantry was designed as a response to the increased need in the community and has already gotten plenty of use so far.

It’s also a response to the rising cost of living, which is impacting everyone, especially young people.

There will be a community pantry stationed at NESAY’s Wangaratta Rowan St base, Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm and another stationed at NESAY’s Benalla hub on 52 Carrier St, Monday to Friday from 10am to 2pm. For more information NESAY visit https://nesay. com.au/ or call 03 5720 2201.

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

FACEBOOK users this week commented on the weekly poll which asked: Do you think nuclear power as an energy source should be explored further?

• Kristie Campbell: So I assume all the yes voters would vote yes to it being built near Wangaratta and the nuclear waste also buried in the area as well?

• Amanda Corbett: Should of been done decades ago.

• John Giggins: Yes definitely. We are one of the richest countries of natural resources on the planet, yet we want to sell it to every other country that thrives on our natural resources. We are no longer the lucky country.

• Ray Hargreaves: Yes indeed 100%.

• Sam Pitty: Ahhhh yea. Should of done it 30 years ago.

• Timothy Simpson: When the heads of multiple energy companies and the

Quality wines will always have a market

THE change in wine drinkers’ expectations and tastes is what is hitting the big wine producers who make basic wines.

The wine industry is evolving to better wines and higher expectations.

Wine drinkers are maturing and have gone beyond the irrigation style wines.

The boom of the cask wine engaged with new wine drinkers who now look for better wines and a cellar door relationship through value packed, good wines and estate grown.

The June long weekends’ ROAM Rutherglen is an example of wine and gourmet tourists out in full to sip and savour great value quality wines and regional produce prepared by local chefs.

Victoria’s wine regions are a massive part of the tourism and image and the family wineries need to be valued and supported year round and not just at festival times.

A weekend in Rutherglen for Melburnians is full of delights and charming family wineries.

It should be a go to destination the same way the Hunter Valley is for Sydney people.

Stuart

Davie, Corowa

Time to make a bigger leap for our animals

VETERINARIANS are calling for the Federal Government to do more to protect animals - by changing Australia’s environment laws to make sure they can protect our wildlife from climate change harm.

The Federal Government has introduced legislation into parliament to set up Australia’s first national Environment Protection Agency, known as Environment Protection Australia (EPA).

While we commend this first step, we are urgently calling on our government to introduce a comprehensive package of nature law reforms to protect our unique wildlife and their habitats.

Without stronger amendments to our federal environmental laws, the new EPA will not be able to protect our unique wildlife from new fossil fuel projects or the clearing of millions of hectares of their habitat.

Vets for Climate Action will be writing to the Federal Government calling on the Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and his ministers to introduce a comprehensive package of nature law reforms urgently.

Stefany Goldring, Vets for Climate Action CEO

CSIRO say nuclear doesn’t make sense for Australia, and Dutton’s response is tantamount to “Nuh uh” and “don’t trust those egghead scientists”, we do not have a debate. We have a distraction. Meaningless party-branded words filling the invisible advertising space in the air.

• Jack Carruthers: Commonwealth legislation passed by the Howard government in 1998 prohibits nuclear power. This would need to be lifted before anything else could happen. Facebook users also commented on The Old Town N Country Tavern winning Best Family Dining at the AHA victorian State Awards for Excellence

• Alicia Arlov: I couldn’t think of a team that deserved this more!

• Phil Hutchieson: well done guys.

• Lucy Caminiti: Best pamas in town.

Our follower total is Like the Wangaratta Chronicle Facebook page to have your say.

14,860

CHEQUE: Northeast Health Wangaratta executive director clinical operations Bernadette Hammond (left) and co-nurse unit manager of cancer and wellness service Sam Cooper (right) accept a cheque from Auskick representatives Will Stamp and Baxter Rourke. The Wangaratta Auskick centre raised the $2800 through its recent Mother’s Day raffle, to support Northeast Health Wangaratta’s breast and gynaecological cancer service. Sam said the service was humbled by the generosity of the community, and thanked locals for their support, which would make a real difference to clients going through a difficult time. She said: “We plan to put this generous donation back into the local community by obtaining gift vouchers which will go towards everyday living expenses. The cost of living is increasing every day, and this can add another layer of stress to people who are already struggling to meet all their needs. People often don’t have the back-up funds to purchase extra medications or see medical professionals. Hopefully these vouchers will go some way to reduce some financial pressure”.

PHOTO: Steve Kelly

Should the North East Catchment Authority be responsible for repairing flood damage in local

HEALTHY

FACEBOOK users this week commented on Jackie Creek being celebrated for excellence by Palliative Care Victoria (PCV) as part of their state awards.

• Megan Barbour: Well deserved Jackie.

• Wayne Marjanovic: They all are very good at what they do... couldn’t think of a harder job do keep up the good work ladies.

• Annette Jones: Congratulations Jackie well deserved. Your dedication is incredible just like you.

• Meredith Lane: Congratulations Jackie, very well-deserved and an acknowledgement of your dedication to your role.

• Tania Pool: Well deserved recognition for everything that u do Jac. Congrats and cheers to u beautiful lady.

• Colleen McGrath: Congratulations Jackie. Very well deserved x

• Jen Lugg: Congratulations Jackie! Great recognition!

• Leanne West-Honybun: So well deserved Jackie. We

wangaratta_council

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On National Sorry Day Wangaratta Citizen of the Year, Ruth Kneebone’s carved handprint was unveiled on the Marmungun Rock in Apex Park. Each year the local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community, through the Dirrawarra Indigenous Network, recognise the Citizen of the Year with this ceremony.

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

will forever be grateful for your excellent care and support for our dear mum. Congratulations!

• Casey Elizabeth: Congratulations Jack! Beyond proud of you.

• Georgina Cusack: That’s my girl Congratulations Jackie. So good to see your absolute devotion to your chosen career recognised by your peers. A truly worthy recipient of this prestigious award.

• Cheree Ree: So deserved!!!! Well done, Jackie!!!!

• Cathryn Carboon: Congratulations. Great recognition for your work and dedication to our community!

• Mel Fraumano: Well deserved! Thank you Jackie and congratulations.

• Andy Babs: Well done Jackie . Awesome work.

• Anita Walker: Fabulous.

• Lois Foley: Congratulations Jackie what wonderful recognition for your amazing work...

• Rachael Mackay: The best! Well deserved Jackie.

Our follower total is Like the Wangaratta Chronicle Facebook page to have your say.

14,860

X USERS this week tweeted about local football games, the need for infrastructure in rural Australia and upcoming events at the Wangaratta Turf Club.

Ovens & Murray FNL @omfnl

THE SS&A OVENS & MURRAY FNL IS BACK FOR ROUND 8! With games across Wodonga, Albury, Wangaratta, North Albury, and Lavington, there is sure to be an opportunity to support your local team! Find more detail on our website: http://omfnl.com. au/matches

Joel Shepherd Author @ShepJoel

We have the right number of cities for a country of 10 million, not of 26 million and growing. We need more cities. Fast trains from Melbourne-Sydney-Brisbane would shorten travel times and open up places like Wangaratta, Albury-Wodonga, Wagga Wagga, Goulburn etc to massive development.

Wangaratta Turf Club @Wangarattatc

Join us on Saturday 6th July for the inaugural Into Our Hands Community Race Day at @Wangarattatc ! Headlined by 3-time @MelbourneCup winner Damien Oliver.

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

Stand for council in 2024

Rural City of Wangaratta voters head to the polls, via a postal ballot, in October to elect seven councillors for the next four years.

This year’s election wlll be different as a state electoral review will see the rural city’s current council ward structure of four wards (one city ward with four councillors, three rural wards electing one councillor each) being replaced with a new seven single-councillor ward structure.

Voters in each of the seven wards (Appin Ward, Bullawah Ward, King River Ward, Ovens Ward, Warby Ward, Wareena Ward and Yarrunga Ward) will only get to choose between those candidates standing in their ward.

Local government remains our closest distinct tier of government and a democratically-elected council to provide good governance for the benefit and wellbeing of the municipal community has never been more important.

The Wangaratta Chronicle, together with the Rural City of Wangaratta, is encouraging community members to start considering what qualities, experience and skills you want to see in prospective candidates, and what expectations you have of your council?

For prospective candidates, a significant time commitment (last survey 70 per cent of Victorian councillors said they spend 16 hours or more a week), and ability to work through a challenging annual budget process, and wide-ranging list of council responsibilities under more than 120 pieces of Victorian legislation, including land use planning and building control, public health services, domestic animal control and environmental protection legislation, as well as maintaining community infrastructure come with the civic role.

To add some context to the current state of local government, and create greater understanding and hopefully raise interest in prospective candidates and the wider community, we’re asking each current councillor a series of questions.

Today’s column features Councillor Dave Fuller..

Cr DAVE FULLER

What skills, qualities or experience do you believe are needed to be an effective councillor?

A personable nature and the ability to interact and communicate with various people in different settings.

It’s great if you are comfortable with public speaking, but you also need to be a good listener and show up and be present for our community.

It helps if you have a governance background and have been on a board or a committee.

In essence we are a board or a committee, so understanding the key principles of the decision-making process is valuable. You need to be available and flexible with

your schedule, for example you may need to attend events at short notice and spend 10 minutes at one place and then 10 minutes somewhere else.

I encourage anyone considering standing for council to spend time with one of us and gain an understanding of what being a councillor entails.

I am happy to offer this, just reach out.

What are the biggest challenges facing our incoming council?

One of the biggest challenges is time management.

I was very fortunate to have an employer that allowed me to switch to a part time role.

I’m not sure it’s possible to work full time and be a councillor.

Flexibility is important - some weeks you may have two hours contact time but others you might have 20 hours.

Discussing flexibility with your employer is key before taking on this role.

There are both challenges and opportunities with your management of social media.

It is an important tool for connection, but you need to be savvy in this space.

How do you balance the needs of your ward against those of the municipality?

I think representation should apply to the whole community and I believe wards are not conducive to a municipality.

I understand the benefit for rural constituents being able to access a councillor directly, but what happens if you’re not able to contact your representative?

I’m available to anyone for any conversation whether it be rural or city focussed.

What has been the most rewarding aspect of being a councillor?

The opportunity to interact with our community, to contribute to decision making and see projects through to fruition whether large or small.

Receiving positive feedback from the community when you have been able to exact change.

It’s also good to hear constructive feedback - any conversation is a good conversation if it is respectful. If we were all quiet, nothing would ever happen.

I’ve been fortunate to hold a few different portfolios: economic-development, arts, and community engagement.

The arts contribute vibrancy and positive mental health to our community.

The three R’s are very important, but as a previous arts manager said, there is no point building roads if there is nowhere to go.

There is a genuine need for and engagement with varied art forms in our community - the ability to interact with a mural or go to a gallery is priceless.

STAND FOR COUNCIL PUBLIC SESSION

The Rural City of Wangaratta, in partnership with the Municipal Association of Victoria, is holding an information session for the community and prospective candidates. The session, to be held at the Wangaratta Performing Arts & Convention Centre at 6pm on Thursday, June 13, can be attended inperson or online. The session will cover local government, role and responsibility of a councillor and the election process. For more information visit mav.asn.au/stand-for-council-2024.

Nikki James and Jesse Cooper welcome us to Yorta Yorta Country as our Wangaratta/ Wodonga community camp begins.

Clinical trials helping local people

BY STEVE KELLY skelly@ nemedia.com.au

CLINICAL trials are helping patients across a spectrum of illnesses with treatments spanning multiple areas at Wangaratta’s public hospital.

Northeast Health Wangaratta (NHW) carries out medical trials on patients who are undergoing, for example, surgical procedures, have a cancer diagnosis, have had a stroke, sepsis, or septic shock through infection.

Clinical trial study coordinator at NHW Jacqueline Lake said clinical trials seek to determine how to improve the care and quality of life for people affected by illness by testing novel treatments, devices or methods of care.

She said moreover, being part of a clinical trial can be seen as getting the treatments of tomorrow, today.

“The clinical trial program at NHW aims to provide access to novel treatments, devices and processes of care that are not yet available, as well as not typically available in regional, rural or remote settings,” Ms Lake said.

“Our program intentionally offers a diverse range of clinical trials across various therapeutic areas; our team recognises that

across all disease arears there are important questions that remain unanswered.”

The clinical trials team sees immense value in contributing to answering these questions and they see the importance in offering alternate, novel treatment options to a population with diverse illnesses.

They also hope that by increasing the delivery of clinical trials to Wangaratta and surrounds, that they are building capacity and capability of the regional workforce.

Clinical trial coordinator Nicole Humphreys said for example if a patient had a breast cancer diagnosis they would see their oncologist and they would offer them and discuss an opportunity to participate in a trial.

The clinical trial staff offer close support to participants and monitor how the patients are going with side effects to treatment.

“It can be a long journey for patients sometimes, for example 15 years with long-term survival of cancer, so there are really good relationships established,” Ms Humphreys said.

“We are an extra support person and someone who can guide them through the

make sure they have regional input into them as well.

whole process.”

Trials at NHW currently include two that look at stroke and one in particular that is trying to extend the time for a patient to receive Thrombolysis or ‘clot buster’ medication.

Ms Humphreys said it currently has to be within 4.5 hours from the onset of a stroke and this can prove problematic in country areas in presenting to the ED in such a short amount of time.

“They are looking to extend this out to 24 hours to see if it is as effective,” she said.

Two breast cancer trials, with one that looks at treatment after chemotherapy, are ongoing.

Ms Humphreys said patients get the standard of care plus something that might improve their outcome more following chemotherapy.

In the anaesthetics department there is a trial that looks at a drug to prevent infections in gastrointestinal surgery.

“While they’re having their normal anaesthetic, they’re administered either a medication or placebo and we follow them afterwards to look at outcomes of infection to see if there is a difference

between the two in terms of infection rates,” she said.

NHW is waiting on the results of a trial that compares chewing gum to medication for nausea after surgery.

“Something as simple as a piece of chewing gum after surgery instead of taking medication could be a big game changer,” she said.

“Our role is to support the doctors and clinicians who undertake the trials.

“We’ve got a very stringent process of having to go through our ethics committee and Rowan O’Hagan is our governance officer to make sure that we’re doing all the appropriate things in the hospital and that we’re able to perform all the study tasks.”

Some people have completely embraced the opportunity to participate in a trial and a lot of people are grateful that these trials are available in a regional area.

“A lot of people see the bigger picture of what contributing to research does for knowledge in general as well as potential improvements for themselves,” Ms Humphreys said.

“It helps to upskill our clinical workforce in current and potential treatments so they’ve had experience in delivering medications

already when they become approved.

“It is an attractor for metro clinicians wanting to come to the regions and still being able to participate in research.

‘It’s great to have a supporting department like this that can facilitate clinical trials and research.

“We’ve only been going since 2019 and we’re up to a team of five and it’s a great way to grow and upskill workforce.”

Research development and governance officer Rowan O’Hagan said it’s part of some staff professional development credentials to have a research component so it really helps them when they’re working to become a senior doctor and moving on to become a consultant.

“They can do that here rather than having to go and live in a metropolitan area and work at a metropolitan hospital,” Ms O’Hagan said.

“A lot of the trials are commenced and sponsored elsewhere and we’re an additional site and that suits our profile as a regional hospital.

“We can certainly add numbers to other trials and

“Not only is it good for the patients who are participating in the trial, the data also reflects regional situations as well.

Trials are initiated in larger hospitals and through the academic realms, and drug companies also sponsor them such as earlier phase research for new compounds for example.

But more people are receiving access to clinical trial support with regional clinical trials coordinator Narges Janalizadeh explaining how the Australian Teletrial Program increases access for rural and regional people.

She said people can have access to the newest medications, models of healthcare and technologies in the rural and regional areas.

“This saves the patients time and money and it’s less stress for them and their families,” she said.

Ms Lake said the teletrials still allow patients to use services close to home and patients can see their clinician at the regional site, can get blood tests or whatever is available at their local services.

She said whatever isn’t available locally, then patients can go to metropolitan or larger centres to receive the rest of their care.

EXPLORING MEDICINE: The clinical trial team are (from left) Australian Teletrial Program regional clinical trials coordinator Narges Janalizadeh, research development and governance officer Rowan O’Hagan, clinical trials admin Kelie Higgins, clinical trial coordinator Nicole Humphreys, and clinical trial study coordinator Jaqueline Lake.

PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

Last chance for feedback on rural city draft budget

COMMUNITY members are encouraged to have their say on the Rural City of Wangaratta Council’s 2024/25 Draft Budget, with submissions closing at 5pm on Wednesday, June 5.

The draft budget outlines the resources required to deliver the council plan’s strategic objectives and includes a four-year budget forecast.

It is currently on public exhibition for community feedback through written submissions or online via the Connect Wangaratta portal.

Rural city CEO Brendan McGrath said council values the voices of residents and believes that community engagement is crucial for shaping a shared future.

“We encourage everyone to offer their insights and feedback, either through written submissions or by

participating online via our Connect portal,” he said.

“Public input is essential in helping us make informed decisions that reflect the needs and aspirations of our community.”

Council will meet to adopt the 2024/25 Budget at the on at the Tuesday, June 25 meeting at 3pm.

Budget highlights and headline figures of the draft budget include:

 Total income of $91.76m;

 Total operating expenditure of $80.29m;

 An accounting surplus of $11.47m;

 An adjusted underlying operating surplus of $516k;

 A capital works program of $25.76m, inclusive of $3.67m of works to be carried over from 2023/24;

 A rate rise of 2.75 per

cent in line with the Fair Go Rate Cap;

 A waste service charge rise of 2.75pc reflective of the rate cap;

 An individual user fees and charges rise of 4pc, in line with inflation; and

 No new borrowings.

The draft budget is available online at: https://connect.wangaratta.vic.gov.au/93597/widgets/435795/documents/285324, or from the Wangaratta Government Centre, Cnr Ford & Ovens Streets, Wangaratta during office hours.

To make a submission visit community engagement portal Connect Wangaratta https://connect.wangaratta. vic.gov.au/

Any person may make a written submission regarding the proposed strategy.

For further information contact (03) 5722 0888.

Treasure trove of collectables discovered on Laceby property

By JORDAN DUURSMA

AUSTRALIA has a high percentage of people who spend their spare time collecting vintage items.

There are collectors’ clubs for those interested in stamps, tractors, empty bottles, The Beatles, and whatever.

Closer to home in Laceby, on the the Laceby-Targoora Road, is an historical shrine for typewriters, amassed over the past 70 years.

The collection is for sale and bids are expected from local and overseas fanatics.

Typewriters have been phased out in the modern office but these days they’re valuable items on a collector’s wish list.

Sisters Elizabeth Stagg and Catherine Duncan are auctioning off typewriters and many other vintage items in the lots originally started by their late father.

“My Dad disliked throwing anything away, just in case they came in handy, even though their usedby date had long expired, hence the auction,” said Elizabeth.

“I know Dad would be pleased to know if we couldn’t keep them that they get passed on to someone who is keen enough to collect and look after things.

of the many treasures that will be available at auction this Sunday.

“That’s how collectors work, one spends a lifetime collecting something and then it’s passed on to the next collector and so the cycle goes on.

“We are very sad selling them because they were so much a part of Dad.

“They were treasures to him.”

The online auction takes place this Sunday, June 2, starting at 10am.

Public inspection is on today (Friday, May 31) from 1pm to 3pm

For more details go to online@martinevansauctions. com or call 0403 894 455.

HIDDEN TREASURES: Elizabeth Stagg holding one

Regulator announces a $100 cut to default electricity price

THE Essential Services Commission (ESC) has released its final decision on the Victorian Default Offer electricity price, locking in lower prices for consumers and small businesses.

From July 1, the average rate Victorian Default Offer customers pay for their electricity will reduce by around $100 (or six per cent) for residential customers and around $260 (or seven per cent) for small business customers.

Around 340,000 residential and 58,000 small business customers are currently on the Victorian Default Offer.

There are also 180,000 cus-

BY CHLOE JAENICKE cjaenicke@ nemedia.com.au

tomers in embedded networks, such as apartment buildings and office blocks, in which the Victorian Default Offer applies as a maximum charge.

ESC chief executive officer, Sarah Sheppard, said the decision is good news for Victorian consumers, reducing typical household bills by up to $124 a year in some distribution areas.

“A typical domestic customer on the Victorian Default Offer will save $100 a year, and a typical small busi-

ness customer will save $260 a year,” she said.

Managing director from North East based Indigo Power, Ben McGowan, said these changes will affect people in different ways, depending on their energy usage.

“Those who rely on a big feeding tariff will probably be disappointed but those who use more electricity will probably be pretty happy,” he said.

The ESC said its decision considered feedback from stakeholders, movements in key market data, and the final network tariffs for 2024–25 approved by the Australian Energy Regulator in May.

Lower futures contract

prices for wholesale electricity are primarily responsible for the reduced 2024–25 default offer rate.

The impacts of lower electricity purchase costs were partly offset by increased network costs, which were updated after the draft decision to reflect higher tariffs set by the Australian Energy Regulator.

Ms Sheppard thanked all stakeholders for providing their views to inform the final decision.

In addition to the $100 saving for Victorian Default Offer customers, all Victorian households will benefit from the $300 energy bill rebate

announced in the Federal Budget. Those experiencing financial difficulty may also be eligible for additional Victorian Government energy concessions and Utility Relief Grants.

The Victorian Default Offer is based on an assessment of the efficient costs retailers need to recover to provide electricity.

It acts as a reference price so customers can more easily compare different deals in the market.

Mr McGowan suggested that those looking for a better electricity deal should take into account different factors including when they use elec-

tricity and the amount they use.

“It’s a little bit about understanding how you use your electricity and then trying to find a plan that works for you,” he said.

“It is moving from anytime you use electricity you have a flat price to much more well if you use electricity at these time it’s really low and if you use electricity at these times it’s really high.”

Consumers can visit the Victorian Energy Compare website, the free and independent Victorian Government online energy price comparison service, to see what offers are available.

Local landholders talk of ongoing damage, and demand urgent care for the King River

■ From page 1

NECMA project officer Phill Falcke said in a media release the authority “was conscious more work is needed following the flood damage over the past couple of years” and that central to developing the plan was “understanding what concerns, priorities and aspirations the neighbouring landholders and community have for the King River”.

But King Valley landholders, including those who had signed the petition in 2020, say they were not notified about the drop-in sessions, despite years of ongoing interactions with the authority, instead hearing about it via local media and word of mouth.

They questioned NECMA’s genuine interest in seeking community input, given less than two weeks’ notice was given for the meetings, and its unwillingness to answer questions at the Cheshunt session, attended by about 25 people.

Local resident Peter Burrowes said he believed NECMA was not interested in listening to the concerns of long-term landholders or addressing the interests of freehold title owners.

He said the river used to be managed so it maintained the natural course it ran since 1917, but NECMA now wanted to let it carve its own path around the debris and sediment, no matter what damage it caused to private property or to the local environment.

“We see greater environmental values in keeping the river, the banks and the vegetation where it is - not just for us, but for everyone who benefits from the river,” he said.

the Victorian Government, fix flood damage and maintain the waterway in the long term to protect it for generations to come. Some of the many concerned residents calling for urgent action to be taken are (from left) Bob Allan, Kaye O’Kane, Jean

Franco

Alan Sampson, Peter Burrowes, Jim Canfield, Paul Bettio and Bryan Rossi.

“In the last 15 to 20 years there has been steep decline in maintenance.

“All landholders are asking is for is the protection of their freehold title - which is paramount - and for the maintenance of the river to be upheld, before more damage is done.”

Franco Corsini is among the landholders who have seen the course of the King River change dramatically due to effects of flood damage, with the build-up of debris and mountains of sediment causing turbulent water to push around blockages, erode banks and destroy infrastructure

PHOTO: Anita McPherson

Wait for plan in july, says NECMA

WHEN asked a series of questions by the Wangaratta Chronicle this week, NECMA advised it would not be responding, saying “completion of the plan will allow NECMA to provide an informed update on this project in July”.

including railway line barriers put in place near his property to prevent such damage decades ago.

He’s been calling for assistance for the last six years but says he’s been told at different times by NECMA that they either don’t have the funds or are not interested in addressing issues affecting landholder’s property.

“I remember the railway

barriers going in 35 or so years ago when my parents owned the property and they were very effective over many floods, up until five years ago,” Mr Corsini said.

“We’re simply asking for the river to be protected and held where it was, but they’re not interested it that - they want it let it flow wherever it goes.

“But it’s not its ‘natural’

flow at all, because it’s blocked from going where it wants to go.”

The landholders, who add they pay costly licenses for permission to pump water from the river, believe the railway line barriers work effectively when they are maintained.

But ongoing erosion has seen the loss of swathes of farmland, leaving pumps stranded well away from where the river once was.

Landholder Paul Bettio said it is also the water quality which is affected by the uncontrolled erosion, with large volumes of soil washed into the river and

riparian vegetation lost.

With many having cared for the land and waterway for generations, they want to see it protected for the future.

“We’re all here for the long haul - for our generation and perhaps the next generation,” said Brett Hennessy.

“The river is important to all of us, but we’re seeing it filling up.”

The landholders want the Victorian Government to fund the necessary resources to protect the King River; recognising both its environmental and economic importance to the region and the state.

CHANGING LANDSCAPE: Franco Corsini says the course of the King River has changed dramatically since his parents owned the property, with a lack of maintenance by the catchment authority leading to a build-up of sediment and eroded banks.

PHOTO: Anita McPherson

DEEP WATER: King Valley landholders whose properties front the King River want to see the North East Catchment Management Authority, supported by

Box,

Corsini, Steven Wozniak,

Volunteers weave hope

As knowledge of Wangaratta’s Thread Together clothing hub grows along with the need for its offering, a call has gone out for more volunteers, to help extend its reach.

The hub, which saves brand new, end-of-line clothing from landfill by providing it to people in need through hubs across Australia, has been operating in the rural city since late last year after being initiated by the Wangaratta Baptist Church.

The service is available to those whose need is identified by a referral agency, with access available by appointment.

The Wangaratta hub is set up in the form of a retail store, with guests able to browse, choose, and try on clothing items to ensure they fit, and then select two full outfits per visit.

More helpers needed to extend the reach of Thread Together p g r

BY SIMONE KERWIN skerwin@ nemedia.com.au

Based in the former Baptist church on the corner of Docker and Baker streets, Thread Together currently opens each Wednesday, but there are plans to add a Thursday opening to better cater for guests’ schedulesif enough volunteers can be recruited.

Wangaratta Baptist Church Pastor Aaron Wardle said there was also a need to promote the availability of the service, as many people still did not know it existed to help them.

Referrals and appointments for people wishing to access the local service can be made through the Baptist

church, or fellow referral agencies Loaves and FishesChristians Caring, Anglicare, Salvation Army, Junction Support Services, Beyond Housing, NESAY, St Vincent de Paul, Uniting Church, Open Door Neighbourhood House and Upper Murray Family Care.

“And we’d love to hear from anyone who would like to volunteer their time to help in the hub,” Pastor Aaron said.

Colleen Jackel is among those who currently lend their time to Thread Together.

“You can do a couple of hours a week or a fortnight, or whatever suits, and it’s open to anyone,” she said.

“That could involve sorting, changing the racks, or helping

people choose their clothes if they need assistance.

“For me, it’s a chance to help people and give back a little bit, and to continue interacting with people.

“I’d encourage potential volunteers to come and have a look and see whether it’s something they could do.”

Fellow volunteer Heather Tyers agreed: “It’s a case of learning as you go, as every person who comes through the door is different; we help one another.”

Maurie Tyers and Bruce Neilson were busy sorting clothing and shoes in the storeroom at the hub when the Wangaratta Chronicle dropped by.

“This is done as an outreach, but it’s also a reachout for the people who come in; a lot of people are a bit shy about going to the shops

due to their circumstances, and this gives them the opportunity to get something for nothing when they are in need,” Maurie said.

“You can see that their faces light up when they walk out with their oufits, it’s a great thing.”

Bruce, who travels from Bright to volunteer at Thread Together, said it was satisfying to know that quality clothing items which would otherwise be taken to the tip were able to be given to people who needed them.

Even fittings in the store are saved from retail stores which would otherwise have had to throw them away.

“At the same time, it gives people a bit of support and they feel a part of the community; if you don’t look the part, you won’t get the part,

so it’s helping people in that way,” he said.

Pastor Aaron said the service could assist a range of people, from those fleeing domestic violence to children in the foster care system, people who are homeless, the long-term unemployed seeking clothing for job interviews, refugees, and those in financial distress, or affected by natural disaster.

The initiative does not need clothing donations, as they are provided through the program, but donations of funds to cover operating costs and gaps in the market can be directed to Thread Together Wangaratta BSB: 083945 ACC: 317678370.

• Anyone interested in donating their time as a volunteer with Thread Together is encouraged to email threadtogether@wangarattabaptist.com.au

HERE TO HELP: Volunteers (from left) Colleen Jackel, Heather Tyers, Kerryn Bramich, Maurice Tyers and Bruce Neilson enjoy the chance to assist fellow locals at Thread Together.

PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

PROBUS NEWS

Busy season ahead for clubs

WANGARATTA LADIES PROBUS

THE club welcomed visitor Maureen Delany and celebrated eight birthdays this month.

May has the most birthdays celebrated for the club.

Shirley Sullivan advised that there is a bus trip to Griffith Spring Festival which is a three day tour with Cardwells of Numurkah on October 17 with a pick up in Wangaratta for those who wish to go.

The club had nine ladies attend the Seniors Race Day and from all accounts it was a wonderful day out.

Mary Garlick enjoyed herself as she went home with money in her purse.

The Social Dine Out was at the Town and Country Tavern this month with 10 ladies attending.

All plates went back to the kitchen empty, so the food was excellent.

The Garden Club visited Barb Forster’s garden, which has lots of ferns and bromeliads, and after a shared lunch Barb showed the ladies her beautiful paintings which are going in an exhibition in Beechworth.

Barb is a very accomplished painter and the exhibition will be well worth seeing.

The club’s virtual tour is continuing around Tasmania going to Miena, Brighton and Bothwell this month.

As there was no guest speaker this month and as Janet Clarke was away last month, she shared her most embarrassing moment with us, plus a few other stories.

Another topic of discussion was of the “Olden Days” and “Do you remember when” with members regaling the group with stories of their past.

WANGARATTA CENTRAL COMBINED PROBUS

THE meeting was opened by president Gerry Knobben.

The ‘Who Am I’ was new member’s Vonnie, who gave a good history of her life and work, living in various locations, but her life began

SHARING MILESTONES: Wangaratta Ladies Probus president Christine Spriggs presenting member Doreen Holmes with her 30 year badge.

here in Wangaratta, and she has moved back to be close to family.

Current membership is 67, there were 47 members present with 16 apologies, two on leave of absence.

Coming events are breakfast on Thursday, June 13 at the Gateway at 8.30am.

In-House Lunch on Friday, June 21.

Club birthday on Tuesday, June 23.

‘Christmas in July’ at the Vine Hotel on Friday, July 26, the cost is $30 per head, payment at the next meeting.

‘The Mousetrap’ at the Albury Entertainment Centre on Saturday, August 10, the cost is $90, or $80 group booking.

Mystery Trip on Tuesday, September 10, self drive or car pool.

Guest speaker was Trudy Holdsworth, whose research

CELEBRATING 30 YEARS: Doreen Holmes cutting her celebration cake.

the Vine Hotel in December cost $35.00 pp. All in all heaps of fun, fellowship and friendship to be had within the Probus club.

The group extended their thanks to the hospitality team Elaine Broadway and ladies for the lovely Mothers’ Day morning tea enjoyed at fellowship break.

Next meeting is on Tuesday, June 11 from 10.30am at Wangaratta Club.

WANGARATTA WEST PROBUS

PRESIDENT Pauline McAliece opened the meeting and welcomed members and four guests.

Members observed one minute’s silence in memory of their esteemed member Don Greenwood who sadly passed away on May 5.

Three new members were inducted, Sandra and Peter Headland also Elaine Ferguson.

The group wished them fun and friendship and happy times with the club.

The usual monthly Sunday Lunch at Eldorado Tavern was popular.

The Star Hotel was the venue for this month.

Celebrate Sangiovese with

into 10,000 soldiers from World War I and exemptions from war service led her to write two papers. Her talk was based on her paper, ‘The Men Who Stayed Home.’

The next general meeting will be held at the Wangaratta Bowls and Sports Club at Park Lane at 10am on Friday, June 21.

WANGARATTA APPIN PARK COMBINED PROBUS

PRESIDENT Lyn Evans called the 14th May meeting to order welcoming all members present and two visitors, Jenny Micheli and Phil Ash. Apologies were accepted

and birthday wishes were extended to Hugh, Angelina, Margot, Susan and Bill.

Minutes were accepted and general business attended to, then Special Interest groups informed the group of the many and varied activities available for members to enjoy within the club.

Well done to the leaders of these groups for coming up with great ideas, things to do and places to go.

On May 15 several members travelled to Mansfield Zoo then onto the Delatite Hotel for lunch.

On May 17 some members lunched at the RSL club, while May 19 saw others lunch at The Pre Vue

before going the movies.

Activity officer John Cleal and his ‘off-sider’ Brian Davey have many other great events planned for the rest of the year including Morning Melodies and morning tea at Masonic Hall at 10am-12pm on Wednesday, June 19, cost is $10.00 with lucky door prizes.

Christmas in July at Wangaratta Club on Tuesday, July 23 with a two course meal and a cost of $25pp.

In September there will be a visit to the Turf Farm followed by lunch in Yarra, while in October there will be a Bonfire and BBQ Country and Western theme, venue Cod Point, Ovens River, Killawarra.

In November a visit to a cherry farm and lunch at Mokoan Café with Christmas Celebration at

The big trip to Tasmania is on in October and details are available from Helen Baker 0448 388 474.

This interesting trip is for seven days and if you wish to book contact Helen soon.

The club’s annual Casserole Lunch is on Wednesday, June 12 at Park Lane Bowls Club.

Christmas in July will be celebrated at Moyhu Hall on Wednesday, July 17 and catered by Remel 185.

After morning tea the Guest Speaker was introduced.

Max Baker who lives in Moyhu shared an interesting talk about the beginnings of Moyhu and the early settlers and some funny anecdotes as well.

The old photographs were of interest too.

President Pauline thanked Max for a very entertaining talk.

The June meeting will be held on Monday, June 10.

SANGIOVESE E SALSICCE

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

Pizzini’s event is part of the Wines of the King Valley’s Weekend Fit for A King Festival. Entry is $40pp includes event glass plus access to all festival venues.

Community garden helping nurture social connection

BY JORDAN DUURSMA jduursma@ nemedia.com.au

THE Wangaratta Community Garden (WCG) is a volunteer-run project created by the community for the community.

The garden provides plots, equipment, knowledge and water for members to grow food and to nurture social connections through community gatherings.

On the fourth Sunday of every month the garden is open to the public and morning tea is shared at 36 Wills Street, Wangaratta.

WCG committee chair, Mary Daly, said a major part of the project is building community and being resilient.

“To be able to grow your own food and have a level of reliance on a local food system is really important,” she said.

“I’d love to see this place full of food that is free for people and goes out to the community.

“I would like to see the skills passed on to the next generation.

“The power of community is really strong and when something goes wrong, the community rallies.

“It would be great to have more of the community involved, particularly families.”

The garden has two levels of membership - plot holders and social members.

Plot holders pay a fee to garden a plot, with 24 hour access with a key, access to water and use of the com-

munity tool shed.

Social members are friends of the garden who are able to come along and garden when someone with key access is on site.

Membership provides the

opportunity to see people’s gardens evolve over the seasons, learn from and ask questions of experienced gardeners and to share knowledge.

Members can also get

involved in the chook wranglers, the worm farm, compost, seed raising or saving, and sustainability practices at the garden.

Subsidised cost to attend garden workshops to learn about composting, chook care and permaculture is also included.

The Wangaratta Garden Playgroup runs every Monday during school term at the WCG from 10am.

The playgroup is a social group for parents, carers and children up to five years old.

It is facilitated by a volunteer parent and supported by garden members.

Activities on the day are held in the undercover area of the garden with a range of toys, crafts and games that support outdoor activities and exploration of the garden.

The chickens, giant pumpkins and mulch piles are also a key attraction for the little ones.

• To get involved or keep up to date with community workshops and events, follow the WCG Facebook page at https://www.facebook. com/wangarattacommunitygarden.

COMMUNITY SPIRIT: Mary Daly encourages the community to get involved with the Wangaratta Community Garden. PHOTO: Jordan Duursma

Inland Rail partners with STEM Punks program

NORTH East Victorian school students had the opportunity to broaden their understanding and interest in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM), as part of the Inland Rail Skills Academy’s partnership with STEM Punks.

Visiting schools in Wangaratta and Wodonga, STEM Punks is an education program that aims to inspire career pathways in STEMrelated fields.

Through hands-on engagement, the program connects industry with schools to raise awareness of career pathways and job opportuni-

ties within the STEM field, helping to future proof of the industry’s workforce needs.

The STEM Punks program has been developed by industry professionals and teachers to align with the Australian curriculum.

The in-school delivery of the program is based on Inland Rail-related problem-solving scenarios and Inland Rail staff attend to provide real world connections for students with STEM professionals and share their knowledge and experience of working on one of Australia’s largest in-

frastructure projects.

STEM Punks will visited Wangaratta High School, Galen Catholic College and Wodonga Catholic College this week.

Ed Walker, ARTC general manager Victoria and South Australia Projects said they’re thrilled to be working with STEM Punks to help bring practical STEM education and real-world industry experience to schools.

“Through the program, students from Year 7-10 will have the opportunity to actively contribute their skills towards the development of Inland Rail,” Mr Walker said.

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IT’S official - the 2024 Sunshine Ride raised a total of $142,000 fpr the Albury Wodonga Regional Cancer Centre Trust Fund.

Organiser Steven Ballard, his committee and team of volunteers were absolutely thrilled with the community support, which saw the total up $29,000 on last year’s ride.

This year’s event saw almost 300 riders taking part in a 24-hour bike challenge to raise money and awareness for the Albury Wodonga Regional Cancer Centre Trust Fund.

“The support we get from our community is unbelievable and we can’t thank them enough for getting right behind the Sunshine Ride in aid of the Albury Wodonga Regional Cancer Centre,” Mr Ballard said.

“It was amazing the number of teams that jumped on board this year, with gyms from Albury, Wodonga, Wangaratta, and Wagga.

“As well as Comet Cycles, sporting clubs, transport companies, the police force from both sides of the border families and friends.”

For Mr Ballard and his family, the support his wife Debbie received during her battle with breast cancer spurred his desire to raise valuable funds for the local cancer services. All funds raised by the local community, stays in the region and goes towards improving cancer services.

“We have an awesome committee and volunteers that make this happen, and we are keen to make 2025 bigger and better,” Mr Ballard said.

Michelle Hensel, chair of the Albury Wodonga Regional Cancer Centre Trust Fund Board, said she looks forward to the Sunshine Ride in March every year and was incredibly grateful to all involved.

“The hours and hours of work that Steven and his team devote to this event fills my heart with gratitude,” she said.

“This event is an important one on our calendar, one that is filled with optimism and a strong sense of teamwork that enables the trust fund to continue to support cancer services in our region.”

The Sunshine Ride was thrilled to present Adrenaline Boxing and Conditioning Gym with the award for the highest fundraising team after they raised $23,793.

The 2024 top fundraising Individual award winner, Mick Alexander raised $15,170. $142,000

TALKING SCIENCE: Inland Rail’s Jacinta Piazza has the interest of the STEM Punks at Galen Catholic College.

St Patrick’s deb ball joy

ST Patrick’s Parish recently held it’s first debutante ball in numerous decades. The current debutantes and partners came together on Saturday, May 25, to dazzle family and friends with their dancing prowess mastered over several weeks of tutelage by Rebecca Hansted from Razzamajazz Dance Studio.

photos taken by The Occasion Studio.

Bishop Shane Mackinlay and Father Nathan Verallo joined the debutantes and their partners for official

The presentation portion of the evening was hosted by MC Lucia Tekesic a St Patrick’s parishioner and the participants were individually welcomed by Mrs

COMING SOON

The ultimate guide for tourists and locals

Doreen Holmes and Mrs Loris Fletcher both long time parishioners and volunteers within the St Patrick’s Church community and the local St Vincent De Paul Society.

St Patrick’s Hall looked

resplendent decorated to transport those attending to New Orleans for Mardi Gras, feathers, masks, beads and streamers adorned tables, walls and the stage.

DJ for the evening Mickey Bonacci kept the dance floor full, playing great music that made it hard for anyone to sit down and take a break, wholeheartedly embracing the theme for the evening “Laissez Le Bon Temps Rouler”- Let The Good Times Roll.

DEBUTANTE BALL: (Back, from left) Fr Nathan Verallo, Sebastian Carlesso, Wyatt Sinclair, Jaxsun Williams, Theo Bongers, Bishop Shane Mackinlay, Stephen Duggan, Mikylle Grainger, Kyle Schultz,

Rebecca Hansted; (Front, from left) Sophie Bussell, Samantha Richards, Eliza Harding, Kaylee Wane, Harmony Duggan, Faithe Butterworth and Emmalee Murphy. PHOTO: The Occasion Studio

Val’s Palestinian mission for peace

Friday, May 30, 2014

By SIMONE KERWIN

VAL Edwards is not one to shy away from a challenge, though she admits her latest move is a little more adventurous than usual.

Her varied life experiences include time in a religious order, as well as in teaching, counselling, adult education, working with the Australian Bureau of Statistics, in two different factories, and managing up to 20,000 tenancy leases for ACT Housing.

In early August, the 69 year old will take on a three month placement in Palestine and Israel as an ‘ecumenical accompanier’, through a program run by the World Council of Churches, and organised in Australia through the Australian National Council of Churches.

The role could see her based in Bethlehem, Jerusalem, the West Bank or Gaza, or in a small Palestinian township, and will involve her working closely with church and community leaders in Palestine and Israel.

She will be required to assist vulnerable communities, monitor and report human rights abuses, and support Palestinians and Israelis working together for peace.

ADVOCATE: Wangaratta’s Val Edwards is heading to Palestine in August for a three month placement as an ecumenical accompanier.

A fortnight of training sessions before she leaves will involve learning basic spoken Hebrew and Arabic, and taking part in role plays to examine avenues for nonviolent conflict resolution.

“It’s not going to be easy, and sometimes I am going to be under threat,” Val said.

“I’m not frightened, but I am daunted; I think anyone

NEWSTADIUM

Milawa’s Biggest Morning Tea hits close to home

how I’ll react to being sur rounded by armed soldiers.

10 years ago 10 years ago

would be silly not to be a bit daunted.

“It will be a fairly challenging three months, and I don’t have any idea

“Though what we are doing will be what Palestinian people do every day of their lives.”

Val said she had always been passionate about the Irish and the IsraeliPalestinian conflicts (“they somehow link up in my mind”), and was keen to raise awareness of the latter.

MILAWA Kitchen & Milawa Bread hosted Milawa’s biggest morning tea to raise funds for the cancer council last week, putting together a fabulous hamper valued at over$480 with generous donors from Milawa Cheese Company, Wood Park Wines, and Wattle Tree collective.

All tea sales from the day were also donated.

This cause means a lot to the team at Milawa bread, be-

ing a small family run business which has been directly impacted by cancer.

Florence Desoutter, coowner with Adam Rivett, was diagnosed with breast cancer only last year and has just recently finishing treatment.

Thye morning tea raised over $500 on the day which will all go to future research into cancer.

The lucky winner of the hamper was Sam Caddey.

PHOTO: Luke Plummer

SAVOURING THE WIN: The winner of the wonderful hamper at Milawa Bread & Kitchen’s Biggest Morning Tea was Sam Caddey.

Hardhead - A deep diving duck

By IAN DAVIDSON and CHRIS TZAROS

THE Hardhead is a mediumsized duck which looks chocolate brown when swimming, with a white undertail.

In flight, the underwings are white, edged with brown.

A white breast patch is obvious in flight and when standing in the

species is also known as the Whiteeyed Duck.

When flying, the wings make a distinctive whirring sound.

permanent open freshwater wetlands with dense fringing vegetation like cumbungi but during dry times may use large dams.

Hardheads often disperse during dry times, with numbers increasing after good rain.

may dive well over 10 metres underwater, using their feet to propel them.

They eat aquatic plants and animals, particularly mussels and freshwater shellfish.

The bill is pale blue on the tip.

Males have a distinct white eye, while the eye is brown in females.

Th This i rellativel e y uncommmon

g Hardheads sit low on the water and are diving ducks

The Hardhead is endemic to (only found in) Australia. Haard r heads inhaabit t deeepp, mostly l

Beveridge to Albury Tranche 1 Works

Clutch size is usually around 10 eggs which she incubates alone.

Hardheads have declined in some areas where freshwater wetlands have been drained or in wetland areas with poor water quality and turbidity which hinders the duck’s ability to find g g shallows.

p g to move to wetlands times.

Locally, they are mostly found in spring and summer and tend to move to northern Australian wetlands during cooler times.

These ducks breed in low, thick vegetation, in or near the water, along rivers and channels and around billabongs and and is often added to with what she can reach from the nest.

g dams.

y suitable prey

Hardheads dive for their food, leaping forward and diving smoothly under the water and

Hardheads dive for their forwward an a d g smmooothly undder e the h w t ater a d nd

The nest is a trampled platform of reeds, sticks and vegetation, with some e down lining. g

The nest t is b buil i t by b the h femalle

At present these birds may be seen on the main Winton wetland and Lake Moodemere near the cumbungi i and reeds

Construction update

In June and July, our contractor McConnell Dowell will continue construction activities to provide sufficient clearance for doublestacked freight trains along the North East rail line.

Planned works include:

Wangaratta

• Installing canopy, fencing and stairs for the new western platform.

• Concreting and formwork of the stairs, ramps and lift shafts for the new pedestrian underpass.

• Site preparations for installing the Green Street bridge deck.

• Offsite fabrication of the bridge deck superstructure.

Utility relocations.

Glenrowan

• Installing streetlighting, pedestrian handrails and anti-throw screens.

• Pavement construction and asphalting of local roads.

• Landscaping in and around the new bridge.

• Starting removal of site offices, plant and equipment.

Seymour

• Pile capping for the new bridge abutments, concreting around the bridge substructure.

• Offsite fabrication of the bridge deck superstructure.

• Constructing approach roads on either side of the bridge. Utility relocations.

Corridor-wide

• Powerline and lighting upgrades at Broadford and Avenel train stations.

• Rail bridge strengthening works.

To view all work notifications, visit inlandrail.info/ notifications

to sign up for project newsletters.

Thanks for your patience and cooperation while we carry out these works.

Interested in work on the Beveridge to Albury Tranche 1 project sites? Visit mcconnelldowell. com/people/career-opportunities.

BRIGHT EYES: A male Hardhead identified by its white eyes. PHOTO: Chris Tzaros (Birds Bush and Beyond)

Library book sale

THE Friends of Wangaratta Library are holding a book sale this Saturday morning from 9.30am to 12pm at Wangaratta Library.

There will be a large range of second-hand adult fiction, nonfiction and children’s books to choose from, with all money raised assisting the library in providing programming and events.

Tickets on sale for The Long Road

TICKETS are now on sale for the Wangaratta Players Inc production, The Long Road, which opens at the Stage Door Theatre in Evans Street on June 14.

It tells the story of what happens after 18-year-old Danny is fatally stabbed in a random attack, and how his family struggles to find meaning and forgiveness after their unimaginable loss.

A topical and powerful play which shouldn’t be missed, see it on June 14, 15, 21 and 22 at 7.30pm and on June 16 and 23 at 2pm, with tickets at https://www.trybooking.com/CRRUA.

Two of Us exhibition in Wangaratta

AN exhibition by Sian Lim and Joan Mullarvey called The Two of Us is open at the Art Gallery on Ovens.

The exhibition celebrates not only each of the resident artist’s vision and technique with divergent perspectives and distinct styles, but also where their friendship and creativity intertwine.

See it today and Monday from 10am until 4pm and on Saturday and Sunday from 10am to 2pm.

Quilts on display at My Little Patch

FOR the month of June, My Little Patch will be showcasing an exhibition of quilts created by Kathy Bickerdike.

Come along and be inspired by the display during opening hours at the shop, located at the rear of 49 Reid Street in Wangaratta.

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 with new and used items, plants, fruit and veg and more, with

Good things come in small packages WHAT’S

TINY textile artworks are captivating the attention of visitors to the Wangaratta Art Gallery.

The Petite Miniature Textile exhibition, a biennial exhibition which draws entries of smallscale works from artists from across the country, has once again delivered when it comes to innovative and thoughtprovoking design.

This week, year 10 students from Galen Catholic College were among those to come and see the collection.

Wangaratta Art Gallery director Rachel Arndt, who co-curated the exhibition with previous Petite exhibitor, artist Susie Losch, has been wowed by the public feedback to the exhibition.

refreshments also on site.

Stalls are available for $20 each (an autumn winter special, no bookings required) and car boot sales are welcome for $15, with more information via the market’s Facebook page.

BY ANITA McPHERSON amcpherson@ nemedia.com.au

She said the gallery has also added a couple of favourite works to the rural city’s own collection.

“We’ve had a fantastic response and I’ve been blown away by the visitor comments, who’ve described it as ‘absolutely amazing’, ‘inspiring and heartfelt’, also saying the exhibition design is outstanding,” she said.

“They have also said the personal stories are amazing, and that it’s something they want to share with their kids.

“A visitor told me she has been coming for years and this is the

Shadow Murmurs at Wangaratta Art Gallery

AN exhibition of drawings and sculptures by Julie Monro-

best the gallery has ever looked and that ‘whoever thought of the colours and shape designs should be congratulated’.”

Showcasing innovative textile practice, the Petite Miniature exhibition demonstrates how much can be said through the medium of textiles, even in small scale.

The 30 works, selected from hundreds of entries, each respond to the theme “of the times” and touch on topics such as mass production, war, and recent climate activist attacks on irreplaceable artworks.

Questions are also raised as to how widespread access to artificial intelligence may affect the arts.

The two works which will be joining the gallery’s own collection, funded by generous

Allison which explores themes of transformation and the evolution of form, is on display in Gallery 2 at Wangaratta Art Gallery.

Shadow Murmurs includes ink and graphite drawings, ceramic forms, bronze and woven cane sculptures,

donors, are Janita Ryan’s Me, The Glasshouse Mountains, 1829 kilometres and AI, and Gillian Bencke’s Olympe Vessel.

Ms Arndt said both of these have been firm favourites with visitors to the gallery.

She said the exhibition has a following across the country and the gallery is one of only a few galleries internationally to hold such an event every two years. Works were selected for their articulation of contemporary issues and ideas, combined with the quality of execution, mastery of technique, and the artist’s interpretation of the term miniature.

See Petite Miniature Textiles 2024 at the Wangaratta Art Gallery from Tuesday to Sunday, 10am to 4pm, until June 23.

developed from sketches made while investigating and observing living organisms and their cycles of life: in this instance the termite mounds in Far North Queensland. It will be open to the public until June 9.

SMALL SCALE: Wangaratta Art Gallery’s Hilary Timma and Rachel Arndt are pictured with the artwork (centre) Olympe Vessel by Gillian Bencke, now a part of the gallery’s collection. PHOTO: Chloe Jaenicke

North East country lifestyle

IF a country lifestyle and space to move is what you desire, then this property may be just the one for you.

A comfortable four bedroom weatherboard home (circa 1982) centred on approximately 16 hectares (40 acres) on the outskirts of delightful Moyhu.

When the day is done, relax in the light-filled living area by the Coonara wood heater, prepare meals in your country-style kitchen featuring a fiveburner gas stove, and entertain on the expansive verandah and decking.

Three of the four large bedrooms include built-in robes for easy organisation.

There is a central spacious family bathroom with separate bath and shower, and additional storage/linen cupboard.

A second toilet is located in the laun-

Combining classic country charm with modern convenience, this property offers you the opportunity to explore rural lifestyle pursuits, run livestock, grow your own vegetables in the established vegetable beds, and yet still enjoy the conveniences of town being only a short 28km drive from Wangaratta and Myrtleford. For the food and wine enthusiast you are also positioned in excellent proximity to the Milawa and King Valley gourmet regions.

dry off the main deck.

Enjoy year-round comfort with evaporative cooling and a split system in the bedrooms.

The inclusion of solar panels and an electric hot water service promote sustainable living.

Livestock handling is provided for with the inclusion of a 10-panel set of steel portable stock yards (no crush).

The property also includes two dams for stock and garden use.

There is plenty of space to park vehicles, a double garage with tilt door, adjoining workshop, small machinery shed and wood shed all completing the

Impeccably maintained

STEP into the market as a first home buyer or savvy investor with this meticulously maintained home.

The home offers three bedrooms all with built-in-robes, family bathroom and an expansive living space with delightful bay window, all nestled on a very generous 796m2 allotment.

The home welcomes you with abundant natural light, creating an enjoyable living environment.

Year-round comfort is assured with two gas heaters, ducted evaporative cooling and a split system in the living room, ensuring a pleasant living environment regardless of the season.

The functional kitchen and dining area, complete with gas cooking facilities and a dishwasher, provide both convenience and functionality for everyday living and entertaining.

Outside, expansive shedding offers plenty of storage space, complementing the secure yard.

Ample parking is available alongside a substantial 9m x 3.5m garage featuring a concrete floor and power supply. This property presents an ideal opportunity for those seeking a well-established home that combines comfort and practicality.

Don’t miss the chance to make this impeccably maintained property your own – contact Garry Nash & Co for more information or to arrange a private inspection.

Springhurst 29 School Road

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Opportunity in country town of Springhurst

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Charming West End Cottage

Laceby 302 Wangaratta-Kilferra Rd 10.3Ac3 22

Lifestyle Living in Laceby For Sale $899,000 View by appointment, wangaratta.nutrienharcourts.com.au/L23995911

Nutrien Harcourts Wangaratta

Killawarra Lot 2 Forest Road

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Rural opportunity with great shedding

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Development

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Hybrid power points to zero emissions

■ EXCEPTIONAL FUEL CONSUMPTION: With an exceptional 3.9 litres per 100 kilometres fuel consumption the full 38 litre petrol tank should give a careful driver almost 1000 kilometres of range.

By DEREK OGDEN, Marquee Motoring

WITH a dim start to electrification of the automobile

Down Under, due considerably to the snail-pace roll-out of charging infrastructure to keep up, many car manufacturers have doubled down on petrol/electric hybrid models.

Latest switch-on is Hyundai with its new Kona SUV range consisting initially of internal combustion engine vehicles and totally electric powered variants.

The small sports utility hybrid vehicle makes use of a 1.6 litre petrol engine and 6 speed dual clutch transmission with a 1.32 kwh battery pack and electric motor, designed to deliver a driving experience similar to a conventional ICE vehicle.

With an exceptional 3.9 litres per 100 kilometres fuel consumption (91 RON) on the combined cycle claimed by the maker, the full 38 litre petrol tank should give a careful driver almost 1000 kilometres of range.

As well as standard features such as AM/FM/DAB+, wireless Apple CarPlay/ Android Auto connectivity, Hyundai Bluelink with calendar integration, Over-The-Air (OTA) updates, USB-C input and Google Fast Pair Service for Android across the Kona range, the test car was specced up to Premium level.

Options on Premium include wide-glass sunroof at $1500, metallic mica paint $595 and Light Shale Grey/ Sage Green interior $295.

The Kona N Line Hybrid is covered by Hyundai’s fiveyear unlimited kilometre warranty, with battery warranty of eight years or 160,000 kilometres.

STYLING

The Kona hybrid follows on the futuristic design chops of the all-electric variant.

Standout features of the Neoteric (aka modern) Yellow test car included light strip front and back, twin alloy tipped exhaust pipes, N Line body-coloured cladding, N Line front bumper with gloss black front bumper insert, N Line side skirts and N Lineexclusive 18-inch alloy wheels.

There’s a black N Line wingtype spoiler and mirror caps, N Line rear bumper, plus N Line aluminium badging.

Dual projector beam headlights combine with LED indicators, black beltline moulding and ‘seamless horizon’ centre LED positioning light.

INTERIOR

With wider-opening doors, back seat space – 77mm more leg room and 11mm extra headroom – is well ahead of the previous Kona.

Second-row shoulder room (1402mm) is also among the largest in class.

This level added Bluelink connected satellite navigation, Bluelink live traffic updates, voice control, SMS playback capability, split-screen function and voice memo function.

Buttons and dials dominate the climate and drive mode controls, so it’s simple to hop into Sport, or adjust the climate.

Stacks of storage space is partly the result of the lack of a transmission tunnel with its old-style T-bar gear lever, leaving room for an open centre console.

All-new Kona’s optional N Line pack interior offers leather appointed seating with Alcantara inserts, along with red highlights and N logos.

There’s an N Line steering wheel, dark metal door handles, plus leather dashboard tray and highlights.

Black headlining and pillar trims may seem a bit too gloomy for some.

The boot has room for 470 litres of cargo with the rear seat backs raised, blowing out to 1421 litres with the backs folded (almost) flat.

A temporary spare wheel can be found under the boot base, which is height adjustable.

ENGINES/TRANSMISSIONS

New for Australia, the Kona hybrid powertrain combines a 1.6-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine with an electric motor plugged in to a 1.32 kWh battery pack.

The electric motor produces 32 kW of power and 172 Nm of torque, the combined system putting out 104 kW and 265 Nm.

The package is mated with a six-speed dual-clutch transmission.

SAFETY

This is where the Hyundai SmartSense safety system comes into the picture with functions including autonomous emergency braking (with pedestrian and cyclist detection), as well as AEB rear.

Also included are driver attention monitoring, blind-spot monitoring and assist, lane keep assist, safe exit warning, plus parking sensors.

And to help further in pedestrian safety, the Kona Hybrid, with its almost silent powertrain, features a Virtual Engine Sound System which generates a futuristic sound for pedestrians to hear through a speaker at the front of the vehicle.

A further chime is ‘played’ when the car is reversing.

There are seven airbags in Kona, including a front centre side airbag.

Mounted in the left of the driver’s seat backrest, it can prevent or reduce the severity of injuries caused by coming together of front occupants, or collisions between occupants and the interior during a side impact.

DRIVING

The dash-mounted pushbutton start fires up the allbut silent electric motor, to be joined by the 1.6-litre petrol engine, in an ultra-smooth transition at around 20 to 30 km/h when needed for optimum performance, a great help in town traffic.

It’s not the most powerful vehicle but a heavy-footed

NOTE: This price does not include government of dealer delivery charges.

take-off can have the Kona’s front wheels spinning in the wet, trust me.

Paddles behind the steering wheel allow the driver to get in on the action of the sixspeed double-clutch tranny.

Oh, and can deliver different levels of regenerative braking.

Claimed fuel economy is a miserly 3.9 litres per 100km on the combined urban / highway cycle.

On test the Kona accrued a fuel consumption figure of 5.1 litres per 100 kilometres over a week’s work on a range of road conditions.

Traffic sign recognition and warning sounds like a good idea but the Kona goes a step too far for my liking, not only issuing a visual warning but beeping too.

Frequent changes of speed limit can come up with an incessant ‘one-note’ samba.

More annoying than helpful.

Also, the system is inclined to pick up the speed limit of an on or off-ramp while still on the motorway and on test was wont to hold on to a car park 10 km/h speed limit when the car was well on its way down the road.

SUMMARY

With skinflint fuel usage without the worry of running out of ‘juice’ it’s a win/win situation with the Kona N Line petrol / electric hybrid SUV. Good looks, space and heaps of high-tech tackle add to the appeal, as does the $40K+ sales price.

Film fundraiser to support polio effort

THE Milawa Oxley Rotary Club invites the community to a special screening of the heartwarming and inspirational movie, “The Way, My Way,” at the Wangaratta Cinema Centre on Tuesday, June 18 at 6pm.

This event is not just a cinematic experience but also a fundraiser to support global polio eradication efforts.

Based on the best-selling Camino memoir, “The Way, My Way” chronicles one man’s journey along the 800km pilgrim trail, the Camino de Santiago in Spain.

With a mix of humour and deep emotion, the film captures the authentic experiences of walking the Camino, featuring both actors and real pilgrims.

If you are a keen hiker, bushwalker, or have been or are planning to walk the Camino, this is the show for you.

The movie beautifully portrays the trials, triumphs, and transformative experiences of long-distance walking.

It offers inspiration and insight into the journey, making it a must-see for outdoor enthusiasts and anyone with a passion for adventure and self-discovery.

Melissa Hebbard, a spokesperson for the Milawa Oxley Rotary Club, said funds raised will support vaccination programs, research, and initiatives aimed at eradicating polio.

“IT REMINDS US ALL THAT THE DESTINATION DOESN’T ALWAYS COUNT; IT’S THE JOURNEY AND THE PEOPLE ON THE WAY THAT MAKE IT SPECIAL.”

- Melissa Hebbard

BACKING POLIO CAUSE: Wangaratta’s Melissa Hebbard and her husband Peter walked the 800km Camino Frances trail back in 2018 and encourages others to attend the fundraising screening of “The Way, My Way,” based on the walk at the Wangaratta Cinema Centre on Tuesday, June 18 at 6pm.

“Rotary International has been instrumental in reducing polio cases by 99.9 per cent since their first vaccination project in the Philippines in 1979,” she said.

To date, Rotary members have contributed more than $2.1 billion and countless volunteer hours, protecting nearly three billion children across 122 countries from polio.

While polio remains endemic only in Afghanistan and Pakistan, sustained ef-

forts are crucial to keep other countries be polio-free.

Adding a personal touch to the event, Ms Hebbard and her husband Peter walked the 800km Camino Frances trail from St Jean Pied de Port to Santiago de Compostela in 2018, completing it in 43 days

Since then, they have caught the bug and have also completed one of the feeder routes, the Podiensis, and the Kumano Kodo sister walk in Japan.

“It’s addictive,” Ms Hebbard said.

“You’re walking with likeminded people, you make a

Camino family, everyone is caring and looks after each other.

“It comes out in this movie - the caring nature, the people he is walking with are part of his journey.

“It reminds us all that the destination doesn’t always count; it’s the journey and

the people on the way that make it special.”

Tickets are $20 each - to book visit: https://events.humanitix.com/special-screening-the-may-my-way.

The club extended its thanks to the Wangaratta Cinema Centre for their generous support.

FILM FUNDRAISER: A special screening of one man’s journey along the Camino de Santiago in Spain will be held at Wangaratta Cinema Centre to raise funds for polio.

Biggest Morning Tea raised $350 for the Cancer Council

By KURT HICKLING

WANGARATTA Children’s Services Centre provided a big spread for the Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea with families and staff enjoying the celebration on Friday, May 24. Event organiser and educational leader Stephanie Lloyd said the event raised more than $350 for the Cancer Council.

Mayor Dean Rees, deputy mayor Harvey Benton and fellow councillors joined community members, staff and families at the morning event, enjoying delicious coffees and chai’s from Dolly’s Addiction, with hot (warm) chocolates and kinder sized (baby) chinos for young supporters.

“We had a lot of positive feedback, with many people keen to see Dolly’s Addiction selling coffees on site of a morning drop off,” Ms Lloyd said.

CUPPA KICK START: Monique White and Jaz Stott.

FAMILY MORNING TEA: Ryan, Judd and Billy Heafield. HATS ON: Victoria Strand, Makayla Billing and Zoe Konkoly.

DIG IN: Hudson Frazer.

COOL SHADES: Matilda Frazer.

HAPPY DAYS: Heidi and Ashlee Croxford.

THUMBS UP: Olivia Surmon and Dean Keat.

CUPPA AND A BISCUIT: Lynette and Lydia Tarrant.

PHOTOS: Kurt Hickling

Tributes flow for Beechworth cyclist after tragic accident

By BAILEY ZIMMERMANN

THE Beechworth community have been in mourning following the tragic loss of a local father and husband following a biking accident on Saturday.

Brenton Kaitler, 40, was found dead at around 8am Sunday morning near the Indigo Epic Trail off Twist Creek Road.

Mr Kaitler had been riding on the track on Saturday and alarms were raised when he didn’t return from his two-and-a-half-hour ride.

Officers, including search and rescue members, were notified the man was missing late on Saturday and attempts to ping his phone were unsuccessful.

A search was launched, which included assistance from firefighters, members of the public, and a police helicopter crew.

The coroner will investigate the incident, which is being treated as an accident.

The 40-year-old held a passion for mountain and road biking as well as rally car driving.

Mr Kaitler is survived by wife Sally, and their children Sophie and Sebastian.

The North Eastern Car Club, of which Mr Kaitler was a committee member, made a statement on Monday, reflecting the “deeply saddening” news over the weekend.

“The committee and members send their heartfelt condolences

to Sally, Sophie, Sebastian and Brenton’s family and friends,” the club said.

“Brenton was an integral part of the executive committee of this year’s Mitta Mountain Rally and recently secured a new drive to reignite some motorsport ambitions that have taken a backseat over the past couple of years.

“Although the ‘Kaitler’ name is well known in rallying circles, Brenton was also an avid cyclist - both mountain and road, and his loss will be keenly felt by the cycling community.”

The Beechworth Chain Gang posted a tribute to Mr Kaitler on social media, which said the riding community in Beechworth would truly miss he’s vitality, kindness and warmth.

“Brenton was a passionate advocate of all things bikes whose love of riding was felt by all those who were lucky enough to get out on a ride with him,” they said.

“Brenton was endlessly generous with his knowledge, time and resources, contributing significantly to the care and maintenance of local MTB trails, encouraging new riders and participating wholeheartedly in as many Chain Gang events and activities as he was able to.”

A service to celebrate the life of Mr Kaitler will be held at his and Sally’s property in Beechworth next Thursday, June 6 at 1pm.

Two-way traffic restored on Bogong High Plains Road

BOGONG High Plains Road fully reopened to two-way traffic on Monday after major remediation and landslip prevention works were completed.

The completed works come after almost 18 months of earth removal and reconstruction following a major landslide in October 2022 near Bogong Village.

“From today, two-way traffic has been restored on Bogong High Plains Road for the community and the thousands of skiers and tourists who head to the slopes each year,” Minister for Roads and Road Safety Melissa Horne said on Monday.

“The landslide in October 2022 was one of the worst we’ve seen in our state’s history and our crews have worked tirelessly to not only repair the damage on the road but to prevent the risk of another dangerous landslip reoccurring.”

The Bogong High Plains Road opened under single lane traffic control ahead of schedule in late April last year.

The road was closed in the wake of October 2022’s devastating heavy rainfall due to debris from a mammoth slow-moving landslide, above the township of Bogong Village between Mount Beauty and Falls Creek.

Plastic items (like packaging, fruit stickers and plant pots) won’t break down with your food and garden scraps. They are difficult to remove and can contaminate the compost made from your scraps.

Only food scraps and garden clippings belong in your green bin.

COMMUNITY IN MOURNING: Brenton Kaitler is being remembered as a kind and warm father and husband as the bike rider suffered a fatal accident while riding the Indigo Epic Trail on Saturday.

FAMILY CELEBRATIONS: Megan Brunken and daughter Clara Silveira (above) were among those attending the Mother’s Day breakfast, as were Hasini Wasala with her mum, Sasika (below).

Mother’s Day

Wangaratta Primary School

MOTHER’S Day dawned with a burst of love and warmth at Wangaratta Primary School.

Students, bubbling with excitement, held a special breakfast to honour their beloved mothers and special persons.

The school transformed into a haven of joy, adorned with colourful and fragrant blooms as mums enjoyed an arrangement of fresh fruit, croissants, breakfast muffins together with coffee and juice. With beaming smiles, students welcomed their mothers, showering them with hugs and heartfelt wishes. It was a morning of shared affection, bonding and gratitude, etched into memories for years to come.

WELL DONE: Individual year level winners included (back, from left) Jack Doig, Jimmy Kerlin, Lucas Hart, Chester Glendenning, Kamalei Cokanauto, Arya Tsamados, Cleo Campbell, Talina Cokanauto and (front, from left) Ed Wright, Chase Glendenning, Judd Campbell, Emma James, Atelaite Cokanauto and Isabel James.

IT’S A WRAP: Students including Gemma Ham, Taylah Watkins and Harley Smith learn how to put on their ties, as part of the winter uniform.

Appin Park Primary School

LAST week the school held their annual cross-country event on the bike paths running along One Mile Creek.

Utilising these paths directly behind the school allowed the students the opportunity to enjoy some natural scenery as they completed either a one, two or three kilometre event.

The day began with the year 5/6 students competing in a three kilometre run.

Although the older students were given an option to run two or three kilometres, the majority elected to finish the longer run, really showing great strength in their character because running is not for all of them, but they were prepared to tackle a more challenging distance.

Shortly afterwards, the two kilometre participants were sent on their way and there were many students in this event as it was comprised of year three to six students.

Finally, the foundation to year two students began their one kilometre event.

At one stage all the students were running on the tracks at the one time before some began to cross their finish line.

Along with the concentration and concerted efforts required, there was a lot of encouragement and support from all participants as they ran.

Judd Campbell was the eventual winner of the three kilometre event, Chester Glendenning the two kilometre event and Jimmy Kerlin the first-place getter in the one kilometre.

KNIT ONE: Marie Jones and Sasha Gazzar get some assistance from volunteer Jen Brown during the knitting and crocheting lunchtime club.

All dressed up Craft

Cathedral College Wangaratta

WITH the changeover to winter uniform, year six students spent a homeroom session learning how to tie their new middle school ties. It took a bit of practise but it is something they will eventually get used to as the season continues.

Oxley Primary School

MARIE Jones and Sasha Gazzar are among students enjoying the knitting and crocheting lunchtime club that a lovely community volunteer runs each week. It’s an environment where participants can share their skills and enjoy each other’s company.

What does a selenologist study?

Where in the human body would you find a buccinator?

VCAT appeal lodged against Falls Creek development

By LEAH ANDERSON-BYRNE

THE Cross Country Skiing Association of Victoria (XCSAV) has officially declared its objection to the Falls Creek Lakeside Development Project, lodging an appeal with the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT) against the approved planning permit.

Traditional Owners Jaithmathang TOBOO and local resident John Spring are also listed as objectors on the appeal.

Falls Creek Resort Management was looking at clearing a 1.6km stretch of Bogong High Plains Road from Windy Corner to Rocky Valley Dam of snow during winter.

It wants to allow vehicles all–year access and provide an additional 75 car parking spaces as part of its plans to redevelop the current Australian National Antarctic Re-

search Expedition (ANARE) shed at Rocky Valley Lake, as part of its lakeside precinct project.

The Falls Creek Alpine Resort Management Board (FCARMB) developed a masterplan in 2016 as part of its strategic planning initiatives which included a focus area for the development of the Rocky Valley Lake foreshore.

The planning permit was approved in April this year, before going up for public notice for 28 days to allow for objections.

XCSAV president Sandra Paul said the group was initially concerned about the loss of access to cross country ski trails.

“By clearing that stretch of road, it would make it impossible for us to host any of our international races including the Kangaroo Hoppet,” she said.

“In huge news for us, the

SNOW GO?: This area, 400 metres from the start of the Kangaroo Hoppet, will be the new car park and road for the resort’s proposed lakeside project.

Hoppet has been classed as a Ski Classic Challenger, so if this project succeeds we’d have two more years before that’s over.

“It would also mean no selection races and we will lose our safe and nice ski areas.

“The suggestion of alternate trails made by the

FCARMB is ludicrous.

“I’ve just returned from an overseas course in homologating ski trails for racing so I know we have no other options.”

Ms Paul said the group are also concerned about environmental impacts, road safety issues and lack of con-

sultation with Traditional Owners.

“We’ve learnt there are critically endangered species that live near where the carpark is going to be,” she said.

“In 2022 the project proposed 100 car spaces but the Department of Transport and Planning told FCARMB to reduce the number due to environmental concerns.

“The road is also an issue as it was already considered unsafe by the FCARMB back in 2010 when I was on the board and nothing has been done since.

“We believe it’s also an issue that the Jaithmathang TOBOO weren’t consulted further.

“At the very start, when the ANARE shed was proposed as a research centre, they offered their support, but when it changed to being a commercial operation with a massive carpark they asked if they could be consulted and

Falls Creek never responded.

“They do have a number of concerns so they’ve also lodged an application to VCAT.”

Ms Paul said XCSAV would like to see the funding spent in other areas.

“Windy Corner, for example, services lots of people and is used by both downhill skiers and snowboarders,” she said.

“In 2016 the FCARMB called it derelict but again, nothing has been done.”

Since XCSAV lodged its appeal, Alpine Resorts Victoria (ARV) have requested the case be listed as a major case; moving the date forward from February next year to October 9, 2024.

ARV was contacted for comment but said as the decision to issue a planning permit was being challenged in VCAT it was not appropriate to make comment at this stage.

Community rallies to save Mansfield District Hospital from amalgamation

BY EMMA OLIVER eoliver@

nemedia.com.au

WITH petitions at 20 venues across the township and medical practitioners and staff out in force at the Farmers’ Market on Saturday, the campaign to save the Mansfield District Hospital from amalgamation has begun in earnest.

Standing as a united front, doctors from both Central General Practice and the Mansfield Medical Clinic, along with visiting specialists and Mansfield Shire councillors, spent the morning talking with the community on the local impact of budget reforms to the health care system.

Under the state government’s Health Services Plan, community ownership of the Mansfield District Hospital would be relinquished, falling under the jurisdiction of Goulburn Valley Health (GV Health).

The current powers and responsibilities of the hospital board would either be dissolved or downgraded, and the role of CEO made redundant, resulting in a remote administration, based in Shepparton.

The ability to respond to shire health care needs and drive innovation at a local level would ultimately be lost.

Dr Graham Slaney voiced concern for the future of the hospital’s obstetrics and emergency services.

“Any forced consolidation suggests that there will be a

SHOW OF

rationalisation of services across the region,” he said.

“Judging by experienceboth interstate and closer to home - when organisations get amalgamated services are often reduced on the periphery.

“And we’re on the periphery.”

News confirming that the hospital will merge under GV Health raises further concerns.

Currently Mansfield does not have any referral pathways to the health service provider.

“We do however have a

great working relationship with Northeast Health in Wangaratta and for more specialist services Albury Wodonga Health have clinicians that visit Wangaratta which we have access to,” Dr Slaney said.

This would all change under Department of Health reforms.

In addition to forging new operating systems with GV Health, it is the increased travel time that represents a significant issue.

“Travelling an hour and a half to seek medical attention

is just dangerous,” Dr Slaney said.

In the last decade both Alexandra and Seymour have lost obstetrics.

Women that used to deliver in Seymour now travel to Kilmore, and ladies from Alexandra, Thornton, Yea and Eildon all come to Mansfield.

“The very real danger is that our obstetrics service will be closed under consolidation, with preference given to a service that generates higher numbers some-

place else,” he said.

“For some this will entail travelling to Melbourne, and for others it potentially means delivering in Shepparton.

“It’s a long way.

“Women in the country already travel significant distances to give birth.

“If we close down Mansfield these women will potentially have to travel even further.

“And the reality of the situation is that we’ll have women delivering by the

side of the road.”

Dr Slaney conducts statewide training for rural obstetricians.

“The focus has been on getting doctors into communities – like Mansfield – that still have a vibrant service and want to support their community and provide birthing close to home,” he said.

Under the Department of Health’s own capability frameworks informing best practice for maternity and newborn services, providing birthing and newborn care at a local level is a priority.

“Proposed reforms fly in the face of everything the department has previously attempted to achieve,” Dr Slaney said.

Member for Eildon Cindy McLeish reiterated Dr Slaney’s concerns stating government reforms will see the loss of healthcare sector jobs and local services.

Ms McLeish foresees a disruption to continuity in aged care, with the government plan representing a huge threat to theatre and maternity - particularly in Mansfield - and to primary health care overall.

“It is inevitable that services will be cut, and vulnerable and sick regional Victoriansincluding those living locally - will need to travel for services once provided in their hometowns,” she said.

“It makes no sense whatsoever to have these services run out of Goulburn Valley Health in Shepparton.”

SUPPORT: With the Mansfield District Hospital facing consolidation under the jurisdiction of Goulburn Valley Health in Shepparton, Dr Will Twycross, Mayor Cr Steve Rabie, Dr Graham Slaney and Cr Mark Holcombe took to the Farmers’ Market on Saturday rallying community support in opposition to the merger.

Beechworth’s Bee School buzzing with national win

Police seek driver over road incident

MOUNT Beauty police are investigating an incident that occurred at 7:30pm on Thursday, May 23 on Happy Valley Road in Rosewhite.

A 21-year-old female driver was hit by an object that has fallen from a vehicle heading toward Myrtleford.

The object has caused the windscreen to shatter and showered the female driver with broken glass and has caused significant damage to the vehicle requiring it to be towed.

Police said the vehicle that the object fell from did not stop at the scene to render assistance and may not be aware that it occurred.

Police are requesting the driver or any witnesses to contact Mounty Beauty Police on (03) 5754 4244.

Information can be provided anonymously via crime stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Police arrest man, seize smoke haul

BENALLA police arrested a man and seized cigarettes, vapes and more than $16,000 in cash in Benalla last Wednesday.

Benalla Neighbourhood Policing Unit officers and Benalla Crime Investigation Unit detectives executed a search warrant at an address on Bridge Street East about 3.40pm. More than 11,000 packets of cigarettes, more than 3000 vapes and cash were allegedly seized.

A 23-year-old Benalla man is expected be charged on summons at a later date, Victoria Police said last week.

By CORAL COOKSLEY

BEING a category winner in this year’s Keep Australia Beautiful National Tidy Towns Sustainability Awards has meant another level of recognition for a local national program about the crucial role of bees.

Beechworth Honey’s Bee School won the Behaviour Change Campaigns and Education category announced at a gala awards presentation event held in Western Australia’s remote outback town of Gascoyne Junction earlier this month.

One of two local entry organisers, Iris Mannik last Thursday delivered the trophy to the bee school accepted on their behalf at the awards presentation.

Bee school education team member, Liana Beatson, said the award recognised vital work and research undertaken

LOOKING FOR HELP: (From left)

Troy Gavin and Ty Caling from Conservation Collaborators with Myrtleford Landcare president Paul Reser and vice president Phil Prior. The group are developing a riverine strategy and need community feedback. PHOTO: Brodie Everist

wrapped around bees for food security, biodiversity and ensuring a healthy and sustainable planet for the future.

“Two thirds of Australia’s agriculture relies on bees and one in three mouthfuls of food has been touched by them,” she said.

“We have a wide variety of food sources and bees are really important to make sure we can thrive with food security.”

Liana said the educational program is offered to kindergarten, secondary and tertiary students as well as a recently introduced program for adult education groups, with bookings taken on weekends.

The bee school has been running for three years and joined forces around 18 months ago with the Wheen Bee Foundation - a non for profit Australian based charity celebrated

worldwide – adding to the learning hub.

“We have an online learning platform with bee learning kits where teachers can download resources as well,” Liana said.

The educator said the hub continues to develop from research undertaken as well as different events, including World Bee Day held on May 20.

“That was a really big focus for us with some groups coming in to celebrate,” she said.

Liana said getting the message to children at a young age means they will be future change-makers with greater investment in the pollinators.

Iris agreed about the role of educating young children and upwards about bees.

“They are the ones who will hopefully take up the mantle,” she said.

“No bees - no food, and

I think that’s probably the strongest message you can give anyone.”

Iris said the awards not only recognised volunteer projects, but ones including the Beechworth Honey Bee School with its educational endeavours.

Besides Beechworth Honey’s Bee School win from eight Beechworth entries submitted in various categories, Indigo Future Proof Action Group won the Young Legends category while the Heritage and Culture category was nabbed by the Burke Museum’s People of Beechworth Exhibition.

The outback town of Gascoyne Junction hosted the national event early this month as it had been crowned last year’s national winner.

With Beechworth clinching the title this year the town will host next year’s national awards gala event.

Stream strategy

MYRTLEFORD and District Landcare and Sustainability are seeking feedback regarding one of their latest projects - a strategic plan for waterways across Myrtleford.

The landcare group are holding a community information meeting next Wednesday, June 5, at the Myrtleford Library between 4-7pm, where attendees can ask questions, peruse maps and provide input on the long-term plan.

According to landcare vice president and project coordinator Phil Prior, the strategy will help ensure revegetation works and other projects are working towards community priorities.

The plan will include all creek and river frontages in

Have your say on Myrtleford yyyyriverways

BY BRODIE EVERIST beverist@

nemedia.com.au

the township of Myrtleford, including Barwidgee Creek to the Recreation Reserve and Happy Valley Creek towards Ovens.

“We want it to be a broad plan,” Mr Prior said.

“It doesn’t mean that everything’s going to be done straight away.”

Mr Prior said a recent market stall had already raised various community ideas, including the use of more river frontage, an off-leash dog area, and extending walking paths.

“There’s been a lot of discussion about more use of the Ovens River areas, particularly around the Rotary and Apex Park areas,” he said.

“There is a lot of river frontage in there that’s just not accessible nor used.

“The main thing really is accessibility and usability of the areas.”

Landcare have contracted Conservation Collaborators, a Eurobin-based environmental consultant company, to help draft the plan.

Managing director Ty Caling said they will assist in collating information, including community input,

user groups, and the various land management agencies involved.

“The other benefit in having a plan is that there are a lot of different user groups and sometimes there can be competing uses,” he said.

“It’s about understanding that and providing a plan that supports a variety of different uses.”

He said the strategy would help landcare successfully apply for grants, as it would demonstrate grant funding is assisting a long-term community-supported plan.

Myrtleford Landcare president Paul Reser said the project continues a

strong partnership between the group and government stakeholders, including the Alpine Shire Council, the Department of Environment, Energy and Climate Action and the North East Catchment Management Authority.

Shortly after the community engagement is complete, a draft report will be circulated amongst community members for further feedback.

The project is the result of a $15,000 State Government grant the landcare group received in September last year. It is expected to be completed by November this year.

For further information or to provide feedback call Phil Prior on 0467 522 706.

THRILLED: One of two KAB entry organisers Beechworth’s Iris Mannik (middle) holding the category trophy with Bee School team members Amelia Bourke (left) and Liana Beatson. PHOTO: Coral Cooksley

Rural City Connection

Have

your say

Draft Budget 24/25

Last chance to have your say on the 2024/25 Draft Budget. The Draft Budget outlines the resources required to deliver the Council Plan’s strategic objectives and includes a four-year budget forecast. Copies of all documents are available on our website or from the Wangaratta Government Centre, during office hours. Visit Connect Wangaratta to make a submission https://connect.wangaratta.vic.gov.au/

Submissions close Wednesday 5 June.

Affordable Housing Strategy

Last chance to have your say on the Affordable Housing Strategy which aims to see an increase in the supply of social, affordable, and key worker housing in the city. You can make submission in writing or via the online engagement portal Connect Wangaratta https://connect.wangaratta.vic.gov.au/ For more information visit our website or come along to a drop-in session at the Wangaratta Library Wednesday 15 May 4.30pm to 5.30 pm, Thursday 30 May 4.30pm to 5.30pm. Submissions close Monday 3 June.

Wangaratta Art Gallery Acquisition Committee Call for Nominations

Wangaratta Art Gallery is calling for nominations from the community to join the Gallery’s Acquisitions Panel. The Panel provides advice and support to the Gallery Director in the consideration of works of art to be added to the Gallery’s permanent collection. Nominations close on Friday 14 June, 5pm. To find out more or to nominate, please visit the Gallery’s website https://www.wangarattaartgallery.com.au

Community Grants Now Open

The annual Community Grants Program is now open! The Program empowers organisations dedicated to making a positive impact within our community. Applications open 15 May and close on 2 July 2024. If you are not sure how to get started on your application or would like to discuss your project, Council Officers will be available to chat at the sessions listed below. Visit the Community Grants page of our website for more details.

Monday 3 June Hobbledehoy Café Whitfield 1-3pm

Wednesday 5 June Milawa Bakery 10am-12pm Vine Hotel 3-5pm

Thursday 6 June Eldorado Tavern 10am-12pm Wangaratta Library 2-4pm Wangaratta Library 5-7pm

Whitfield Recreation Reserve –Special General Meeting

The Rural City of Wangaratta invites the Whitfield community to a Special General Meeting to appoint a new Community Asset Committee. The Committee plays an integral role and ensures this important venue and service for the Whitfield and King Valley Community is maintained.

When: 5:30pm Wednesday 3 July 2024

Where: Whitfield Recreation Reserve, AC Swinburne Pavilion, Whitfield

For more information on becoming a committee member and to register to attend email recreation@wangaratta.vic.gov.au or call Council on (03) 5722-0888

The Rural City of Wangaratta is inviting expressions of interest (EOI) to lease the Wangaratta Aerodrome terminal building.

The Wangaratta aerodrome is located within a short distance of the CBD and close to the Hume Freeway. The terminal building presents an opportunity to extend the aviation industry within Wangaratta and to grow the vision for the aerodrome. For more information or for a copy of the information booklet and registration form, please email economicdevelopment@wangaratta.vic.gov.au EOI Closes: Thursday 13 June, 5pm

Volunteer Morning Tea

Volunteers across the Rural City of Wangaratta are invited to morning tea. Let us thank you and celebrate your amazing contribution to our community. Please email your RSVP to recreation@wangaratta.vic.gov.au

Wednesday 12 June, 10am Wangaratta Performing Arts Centre – Memorial Hall

Planning Applications

Application No PlnApp24/064

Location 11A Cavanagh Street WANGARATTA

Proposal 2-lot subdivision and removal of restrictive covenant

This application can be viewed on Rural City of Wangaratta’s website under Development, Planning, Current Applications. Any person who may be affected by the granting of a permit may object or make a submission (must be in writing).

For more information, please contact the Town Planning Unit on 03 5722 0888. Council will not decide these applications before 14th June.

Prosecco Road Gateway Sculpture | Artist Meet & Greet

Join us for a community event to celebrate our region’s newest landmark. Meet the artist, Alexander Knox, learn about the project and discover the inspiration behind this iconic public sculpture. Prosecco on arrival & light catering provided.

All welcome, no bookings required.

Saturday 1 June, 2.30 – 4pm at Oxley Hall.

For

these

37 Rowan Street, Wangaratta 3677

WHENTO BOOK BYEMAIL

Packaged liquor licence application

I, Bonnie Kate Duyverman applied to the Victorian Commission for Gambling and Liquor Regulation on 11 November 2023 for the grant of a packaged liquor licence at 44 Reid St, Wangaratta, VIC 3677.

Any person may object to the grant of this application on the grounds that:

• it would detract from, or be detrimental to, the amenity of the area in which the premises are situated, and/or

• it would be conducive to or encourage the misuse or abuse of alcohol.

An objection must state the reasons for the objection.

All objections are treated as public documents. Objections must be made in writing to:

Victorian Commission for Gambling and Liquor Regulation GPO Box 1988 Melbourne VIC 3001 Objections must be made no later than 30 days after the date of this notice.

To Visit Visited

SOUTH WANGARATTA FIRE BRIGADE Notice is hereby given that the Annual General Meeting of Brigade members and elections for the Brigade Management Team will be held at the South Wangaratta Fire Station on Monday, June 3, 2024 at 7.30pm.

Members of the public are invited to attend.

UPCOMING SALE –

WATCH THIS SPACE!

Car and caravan package deal, lots of extras, ready for travel. More information coming soon.

5723 0101

136-140 Rowan Street, Wangaratta, no early callers, 8am start, Saturday, June 1, 2024.

To Visit Visited

ANTIQUES AND COLLECTABLES. Sunday, June 2, 9am3pm, 31 Roy Street, East Wangaratta.

ANGUS Bulls, very quiet, great EBV’s. Murramungee Angus Stud, visit mmas.com. au or phone Howard on 0429 809 288.

MINIPOODLES, phantom and sable, DNA tested, available from June 6, Source ID: MB218464, Microchip numbers: 991003002720670, 991003002720668, 991003002720667. Call Karen 0417 362 961.

Payroll Officer

Temporary Part-Time

7 Month Contract 01 July 2024 - January 2025 (approx.)

ROLE PURPOSE

This temporary part-time position will co-ordinate the Company’s payroll functions ensuring they are timely, accurate and compliant with all Legislation, Company policies and the Enterprise Agreement, in partnership with our external ADP Payroll Services. This role, will be required to work Monday – Wednesday, 24 hours per week.

For further information, please contact the HR Officer—Alexandra on; (03) 5723 0454 / 0411 911 788 or apply directly via Seek. Applications Close 12/06/2024

PRODUCTION OPERATOR

Full time opportunity

An opportunity has arisen for a production operator to join one of Victoria and NSW’s leading independent news and media groups, based at our Wangaratta and digital properties across our group. The successful applicant will be responsible for producing newspaper layouts, pre-pressing pages for print, and basic IT troubleshooting.

Skills and Experience

(InDesign, Photoshop, Illustrator)

• • and to tight deadlines

digital channels, including websites, be advantage but is not essential. an energetic and stimulating environment, we would encourage you to apply.

Applications should be forwarded to: Kelly Lovell Creative Services Manager North East Media Pty Ltd klovell@nemedia.com.au

Journalist

Career Opportunity

Full Time

North East Media, an award-winning publisher of community newspapers, has a full time position for a graded journalist based in our Myrtleford office in North East Victoria.

We are seeking a journalist with previous country newspaper experience to produce our weekly Myrtleford Times and Alpine Observer, servicing the picturesque Alpine Shire communities of Myrtleford, Bright and Mt Beauty.

The position requires a journalist with a strong work ethic and well-rounded skill set, who has a passion for community newspapers and a real desire to work with volunteer contributors.

Excellent writing, editing, photographic, communication, time management and organisational skills, and the ability to generate ideas into relevant news coverage that matters most to a local readership, will be among your strongest attributes. The ability to use social media and deliver high quality work under deadline pressure are also a must.

The successful applicant must also have a valid driver’s licence.

North East Media is an independent media group publishing award winning publications in print and online across North East Victoria and beyond. Applications, including covering letter and resume, should be forwarded to: Jeff Zeuschner Group Editor North East Media jzeuschner@nemedia.com.au

Providing the best quality Catholic education for the children in our care. Catholic Education Sandhurst. 1 Teaching Position for 2024

Beginning Term 3

Applications are invited from suitably qualified persons to join our Teaching team, Graduate teachers welcome.

The successful applicant will:

• have a passion for teaching

• have a commitment to Catholic Education and to the safety and wellbeing of children

• have a desire to join a collaborative team

• promote positive relationships amongst staff, students and parents

• deliver the Curriculum aligned with the school’s pedagogy

• have a passion for growth in their personal practice.

• have VIT registration

Remuneration is in accordance with the Catholic Education Multi Enterprise Agreement 2022 How to apply:

Detailed position descriptions and application requirements are available by emailing principal@sbwangaratta.catholic.edu.au

Applications close: 7th June 2024

This school community promotes the safety, wellbeing and inclusion of all children.

for a

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Tomorrow Today is Benalla and district’s independent community foundation, working to help build strength and resilience in our community, with a focus on improving educational outcomes for local children and young people. Tomorrow Today is excited to be entering a partnership with Ganbina, to support the educational outcomes of Benalla’s indigenous students. We are currently seeking a motivated individual who is passionate about empowering young Aboriginal people on their journey to creating a meaningful future for themselves and their community.

If you believe you have the drive to succeed in this fulltime role, please forward your application letter addressing the skills and attributes listed in the Position Description, along with a current resume with two professional referees by COB Friday 7 June 2024.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander applicants are encouraged to apply.

A full Position Description is available upon request by emailing Sally Matheson, Education Benalla Program Manager – sallymatheson@tomorrowtoday.com.au

PERMANENT PART TIME 0.40 EFT

For further information please contact Dyan Hill, Director Human Resources -(03)5728 0250 or email Dyan.Hill@beechworthhealth.org.au

FOOD & DOMESTIC SERVICES ASSISTANTS

For further information please contact Susan Plath, Director Business & Service Development -(03)5728 0342 or email Susan.Plath@beechworthhealth.org.au

• Full Salary Packaging Arrangements

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

• including Fitness Passport Program

To apply and for full details on the position, please log on to: www.beechworthhealthservice.com.au

To apply and for full details on the positions, please log on to: www.beechworthhealthservice.com.au

DOG TRAINER, Frank Vickers behavioural solutions. Ph 0418 314 610.

MARK’S Mowing, reasonable prices, ride on mowing, edging, clean up, spraying and any waste removal. Ph 0472 603 156.

TILING, wall/ floor, bathrooms, renovations. Phone Claude 0435 945 513.

WHEELER

Earthworks, available for all your earthworks needsyard clean ups, stump removals, driveways, material supply and spreading, and more. Call Marcus on 0491 094 545.

Y ELLO W H yundai s edan , 2000, (1YM9QQ), 218,2 4 2 km , g r eat car for new drivers, 5 s peed manual , $ 4 500 o n o, l o cated Man s field . P h 0 4 39 719 529

2018 SUBARU

Impreza, 34,000km, RWC, (1MA8HE), $20,000 ono. Ph 0448 641 413.

VOLKSWAGON Golf

GTI 2019 Mk7.5, fully optioned, sunroof, heated seats etc, full service history with VW, major service just completed, grey colour, black leather interior, tinted windows, dash cam, reg (1PA7CR), 85,000km, $35,000. Ph 0402 205 836.

WHITE Subaru Outback 2018

HYSTER forklift, new gas bottle, new battery, $5200. Ph 0427 936 630.

CAPONECCHIA, Paolo.

7/6/1927 –19/5/2024

A mass will be offered at St Mary’s Catholic Church, Myrtleford at 1pm today.

A private burial will follow the service.

Premium, 100,000km RWC, reg (AVG243), full service history, tow ball, adjustable roof rack Ph 0428 279 421 Wangaratta

FREE Pianola Morell, fully restored, rolls, Kangaroo Flat area. Ph 0419 273 488.

$29,000

HOLDEN Captiva 7 CG

Gen. II, 132,900km, 2012 4cyl petrol 7 seats; aircon, sunroof, recently spent $10,000 on complete transmission rebuild, v alve body and struts (AT still under warranty), 2nd owner, reg (1FY4LC), $13,500 or best offer. Contact Peter 0419 415 703.

FIREWOOD redgum, boxed and mixed, bulk loads, garden sleepers and fencing timber. Ph 0448 933 999.

FREE Range Hens, ISA Brown Pullets, POL, $28 each. Phone Becky or Hugh on 5798 1868.

RYE grass hay small squares, top quality, heavy bales. Ph 0427 662 039.

SALAMI sow, berkshire, grain fed. Ph 5726 5233.

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.

FOR GENUINE SALE – reduced price, Jayco Silverline Outback 2016 21’6” long offroad van, the Silverline range is the top model in this van with all quality fittings and appliances, excellent condition, travelled approx. 6000km (all on bitumen roads), independent 4 wheel suspension, electric brakes, electric break away safety system, reversing camera, all the normal quality appliances e.g. 3-way fridge, gas electric stove and oven etc., gas electric hot water unit, electric queen size slide out bed, microwave oven, solar panel with 2x deep call batteries, split system aircon and heater, electric washing machine, new TV, pull out awning with 2x wind stiffeners, complete package with over $10k in extras, has to be inspected to see true value of what is included, $55,000 negotiable. Ph 0407 218 028.

round 50 cents, shillings, albums. Turn old money into new. Speak to Ray 5721 7341 or 0401 177 370. CUT

AD OUT. MALE seeking males for pleasure and excitement. Ph 0436 425 412.

DI RAMACCA, Gaetana. 20/1/1932 – 28/5/2024

Passed away peacefully at St Catherine’s Wangaratta with her family by her side. Aged 92 years. Loving wife of 74 years to Raimondo (dec). Cherished mother and mother-in-law of Mim and Connie, Mary and Matt, Joe and Sue, Anne and Jack and Sam and Mary. Adored grandmother of 12 grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren. In God’s care she rests above. In our hearts she rests with love.

DI RAMACCA, Tina.

Sincere sympathy to our dear friends Mary, Matt and families on the passing of your much loved Mother, Nonna and Great Nonna. Her smile always beautiful, now a bright shining star. ~ Love always Michelle and Phillip, Skye, Simon and family.

DI RAMACCA

Requiem mass for the repose of the soul of Gaetana Di Ramacca will be held at St Patrick’s Catholic Church, Ford Street Wangaratta on Thursday, June 6, 2024 commencing at 1pm. Interment will follow the service at the Wangaratta General Cemetery –Vault Section.

Phone: 03 5723 0101

CARAVANS AND CAMPERS

DYER, Bert “Skipper”. May 29. Thinking of you this special day. Happy Birthday. Bert friend and husband. Eager to help. Riding your bike. True Blue Aussie. Hi Golden Hawk. Love to Lynette, Rae and Brenda RIP. Forever in our thoughts.

~ Love Margaret; David, Jan and all the family; Wendy and Geoff. XOXO WALTER, Glady

Treasured memories forever.

SEWELL, Christine Anne. Olivia, Mercia and Alistair sincerely thank everyone for the many cards, flowers, food, phone calls, visits, messages, condolences and support that we have received since losing our beloved Mum, Christine Sewell. Thank you to the wonderful staff at Northeast Health’s Emergency Department, Medical Ward and the TCP program for their guidance and care. We also send our most sincere gratitude and appreciation to Victoria Police, Ambulance Victoria and North East Funerals who went above and beyond to ensure Mum’s farewell was so very special.

Magical day of croquet at Merriwa Park

Lawn Tennis, Croquet and Pickleball Club members enjoyed a magical day of croquet on Sunday in perfect conditions.

Winter shenanigans at Oxley TT

ON Monday night, the Oxley Hall transformed into the epicentre of hilarity for the weekly Social Table Tennis Night.

The cold outside was no match for the warm camaraderie and fiery competition inside.

Picture this - 24 eager participants, bundled up in their best winter gear, wielding bats with the fervour of Olympic athletes—albeit, in puffy jackets and woolly hats.

First to arrive was Graham Stephens, who, true to form, declared himself the reigning champion of table tennis (a title he self-bestowed, and no one challenged).

Close on his heels were Gary and Cheryl Coad, the dynamic duo known for their synchronised doubles routine, which, while impressive, never actually won them a match. Missing in action was June Uebergang who “says” she had a cold, but maybe just couldn’t tear herself away from the fire at home.

Next came Neil Brock and Debbie Brunken, who spent more time adjusting their hats than hitting the ball, and Simon Brown, who seemed determined to use his scarf as an extension of his bat.

Brian Boorks, Clive Brooker, Jason Mullins and Erica Pike formed the peanut gallery, providing a constant stream of witty commentary that kept everyone in stitches. Meanwhile, Manni and Jenni, the silent but deadly pair, swept through the ranks with their unexpectedly fierce backhand smashes.

Adam and Milli turned up the heat, not on the scoreboard but on the dance floor—yes, there was a midtournament dance break, because why not?

Hugh Spring, with his signature "snowball serve" (don't ask), faced off against Kate Woodberry, whose laugh was more contagious than her forehand.

Janet and Don Heath's strategy involved more hot tea breaks than actual play, but their enthusiasm was unmatched.

Martin Butcher, and Paul Lawrencz and William Bonwick, the selfproclaimed strategists, spent most of their time devising plans that rarely came to fruition.

Phoebe Morgan, Kate Cole and Neil (not Brock) Spurgeon, however, were the night's true stars, balancing fierce competition with a knack for turning every missed shot into a theatrical performance.

By the end of the night, no one cared about the scores. Victory belonged to the spirit of fun, laughter, and an abundance of winter cheer.

All locals from High School age to 99 years are invited to play on Monday evenings from 7:00pm at Oxley Shire Hall.

Bring $2 and a bat and maybe a plate to share for supper.

Barbara Trower, Annette Filipek and Samantha Beaumanis wait as Clive Jones aims for the hoop.

Lorraine Johnston takes aim.

Michael Prater’s red aims to clear black.

Anne Dodd prepares, keeping head down.

Approaching the next hoop….Christine De Caneva, Heather Gulbin, Clive Jones and Anne Dodd.

Barbara Trower and Annette Filipek wait while Cheryl Sampson makes her shot.

WANGARATTA

HOT STUFF: Gary Coad and Debbie Brunken in action at Oxley table tennis. PHOTO: Jason Mullins

Rangers face off in ultimate North East Baseball derby

WANGARATTA Rangers A teams played each other on Sunday in round six of North East Baseball.

Their C Grade played Albury Bears, B Grade played Benalla Bandits and both junior teams played United.

The Under 15s played first with both teams moving well in the cold to bring in six runs each in the first innings.

The United side could only manager to add one more run in the next two digs while Rangers continued to bring in another six runs in each turn at bat to win 18 runs to seven.

After not scoring in their first innings, the Under 12s United side batted well in the next two digs bringing in 13 runs to trail the Rangers by just three runs at the start of the last inning.

Hayden Kiker hit a two

JUBILEE GOLF CLUB

SATURDAY, May 25

Stroke

A Grade: Di Murphy 70.

B Grade: Marion Hunt 73.

base hit and Tom Snell hit a home run for United, while Charlotte Robl, Lucas Hoare and Isla O’Keefe all had three safe hits for Rangers.

Rangers went on to win 21 runs to United 15.

Wangaratta Rangers played Albury Bears in the C Grade and took the full one and half hours to play only two and a half innings.

Neither team’s pitchers could find the strike zone resulting in most batters looking for and getting walked to first base.

When a batter did get a hit forcing the runner around the diamond, the seven-run rule save the game when Bears batted through their line up in the first inning to score five runs, then Rangers did the same but were able to get seven runs home in their turn at bat.

Both teams added two

more runs in their second dig. Rangers won nine runs to Bears seven.

Sarah Warfe from Wangaratta Rangers was the only batter to have two safe hits for the game.

Benalla Bandits had a bad day from start to finish in their B grade game against Rangers Orange.

Although they were hitting the ball, they were hitting straight to Rangers fielders and could only get one runner on base in their first three digs.

Rangers had brought in nine runs to have a good lead going into the fourth inning.

Fourteen-year-old Tanner Godenzi had thrown a good game for Rangers throwing 77 pitches, 48 of them strikes when he was replaced on the mound.

The slower pitcher suited the Bandits and they started

Ball Winners: Allen Mercer 2 balls 18, Matt Walker 18.

NTP: 17th Joe Marjanovic. Wednesday, May 29

18 Hole Stableford

Winner

Ball winners: Robyn Hogan (2) 70, Judy Fogarty 73, Carolyn Jeffrey 73, Sue Clayton 74, Alison Comensoli 75.

NTP: 4th Vicki Moorhead, 8th Val Ellis, 13th Robyn Hogan, 17th Di Murphy.

Saturday, May 25

Stroke-Monthly Medal 4th round men’s Championship

A Grade Charl DeMink 68; R/Up Tristan Heath 73; B Grade Laurie Miller 72; R/Up Jim Moore 73; C Grade Mark Dean 72; R/Up John McKenzie 76; D Grade Martin Hill 74; R/Up Matt Sanders 74

Best Scratch Charl DeMink 72

Ball Winners: Jacob Schonafinger (2) 73, Ian Dinsdale, Daren Jones 74, Wayne Hibberson, Joe Marjanovic, John Fitzgerald 75, Michael Baillie Jnr, Alex Jones, Allen Bastin, Rick Harnwell 75, Glenn O’Connell, Tom Arnold, Robert Voss, Kevan O’Shea 76, Ian Mills, Rhys Rigoni, Attila Kungl, Steve Fisher 76.

Super 9

Shirt: Robyn Hogan 20.

Aroma Deli: Sue Clayton 20.

2 ball: Sam Richards 19.

NTP: 4th Rick Harnwell (Pinsent Hotel), 8th Wayne Roberts (Wangaratta Lotto), 13th Stan Goldsworthy (Town & Country Tavern), 17th Glenn O’Connell (McDonalds Wangaratta).

Sunday, May 26

Stableford

Winner: Chris Palmer 37.

***Jacob Schonafinger Eagle 5th hole***

Ball Winners: Martin Hill (2) 35, Brendan Cairns 35, Mark Dean 33.

NTP: 4th Nick Jones, 8th Brendan Cairns, 13th Chris Palmer, 17th Michael Cordier.

Tuesday, May 28

Ladies 18 Hole Stableford

Winner: Josie Fitzsimons 40.

Ball Winners: Sue Clayton (2) 38, Di Murphy 33, Mary Jones 33

NTP: 4th Vickie Moorhead, 13th Sue Clayton, 17th Di Murphy.

Wednesday, May 29

9 Hole Stableford

Winner: Ray Gibbs 18.

A Grade: Steve Fisher 37.

B Grade: Jim Moore 36.

C Grade: Ian Harbourd 37.

Ball Winners: Stephen McNaughton 2 Balls 35, Mick Reidy 35, Alex Gibbs 35, Peter Ford 35, David Richards 35, Trevor Morris 35, Trevor Nippress 34, Martin Van Rhee 34, Gordon Hines 34.

NTP: 4th Steve Fisher, 8th Mick Reidy, 13th Ryan Harris, 17th Trevor Nippress.

WANGARATTA GOLF CLUB

WGC Competitions: Week ending May 25

Tuesday, May 21

Women’s 18 Hole Stableford

Winner: Jenny Kerr 33 Points.

Runner Up: Jan Hill 32 C/B Points.

Ball Winners: Barb Woodward. NTP: 4th Jan Hill, 9th Gail Dodd 1st Round of singles championships

Maggie Ray def Nora Martin 1up, Jacqui Hoggan def Sue McCall 2up, Dawn Fleet def Sue Miller 2up, Julie McInnes w/o from Liz Madden, Candice Jones def Leah Jenvey 3/2, Ros Gormly def Carolyn Sullivan 2up, Carol Coghill def Di Phillips 1up and Gail Dodd def Glenda Dodson 5/4.

Wednesday, May 22

Men’s Competition : 18 Hole Stableford

Winner: Stephen Smith 39 C/B Points.

Runner Up: Matt Nicolosi 39 Points.

Ball Winners: Matthew Diramacca, David Mallamaci, Kurt Schubert, Andy Raison, Denis Hill.

NTP: 4th Andy Raison, 7th Andy Raison, 9th Steve Bismire, 11th Kurt Schubert, 13th David Ryan, 16th David Woodstock

9 Hole Stableford

Winner: John Walker 19 Points.

Runner Up: Keith Fleet 17 Points.

Thursday, May 23

Winner: Jan Hill 39 Points.

Runner Up: Lorraine Adams 36 Points.

Ball Winners: Sue McCall, Barb

to hit safely and started to get some runs.

Rangers kept them at bat to end the game winning 17 runs to five.

In the A Grade game, It gave the spectators what they hoped for when Rangers Black played Rangers Grey. Tanner’s father, Owen Godenzi started pitching for Black.

Rangers Grey scored three runs in their first turn at bat with eight batters facing the plate.

Cheyne (Ausi) Osborne started on the mound for Grey, although Osborne played in Rangers B Grade last season, most of the Black players had never faced him before. This worked for Grey as they had side away with only five batters facing him and no runs being scored.

A change of pitcher by

Woodward, Di Phillips, Judy Brown.

NTP: 9th Jan Hill.

Saturday, May 25 - 4BBB Multiplier

Winners: Chris Oates & Matt Hardy 78 C/B Points.

Runners Up: David O’Brien & Luke O’Brien 78 Points.

Ball Winners: Colin Walker, Alastair McLean, David Woodstock, Steve Smith, Trev Trimble, Geoff Webster Neil McKinnon, Russell Wallace.

NTP: 4th Chris Oates, 7th Kurt Schubert, 9th Trevor Cooper, 11th Kris Allan, 13th Chris Oates, 16th Matt Walsh.

KFC Birdie: David O’Brien, Scott Thomson.

Raffle Winner: Scott Thomson. Women’s 18 Hole Stableford Winner: Julie McInnes 38 Points.

Runner Up: Glenda Dodson 36 Points.

TARRA GOLF CLUB

TARRAWINGEE Golf Club results

Saturday, May 25

The final round of the club championships was played with Mark Nolan being the winner on the day with a very nice round of 78/12/66, the runner up was Pete Nolan nett 69, Ken Miller was next with nett 70.

NTP: 8th Mark Nolan.

The ladies winner on the day was Fay Phillips nett 65, runner up Andrea Simmons nett 70.

NTP: 4th Andrea Simmons, 17th Andrea Simmons.

The club champion for 2024 is Mark Nolan with a three round total of 241, the handicap winner is Angelo Garraffo with a nett 208 for his best three rounds, so congratulations to both of those players.

The Tarrawingee Golf Club also held the N.E.D.G.A. Sandscrape Championships on Sunday, May 26 with the winner being Vaughan Saunders from the Beechworth Club. The Tarrawingee members played very well with Mark Nolan the handicap winner in A Grade, Ken Miller winning B Grade scratch, Angelo Garraffo B Grade runner up and Pete Nolan B Grade handicap runner up so congratulations to all of those players.

Golf to be played Saturday, June 1 will be a stroke event for the June

Black saw Nathan Pool on the mound with two runners on base.

Pool had only thrown nine pitches on the side and had Grey three up, three down.

Runs were had to get by both sides in their next two turns at bat, Black getting two runs and Grey also adding another two to hold a three-run lead at the top of the sixth inning.

A change of pitcher by both sides saw Rangers Black Aaron Parker finish the game on the mound and Bryan Wilson finishing off for Greys.

Black lifted their batting to a better standard of play when they kept Grey from adding any runs in their turn at bat, then came home with some good outfield hits to score four runs before the end of the game to finish winning six runs to grey five

Monthly Medal. Starting times for the cooler months are 11:30am registration for a 12:00 noon Start, ladies welcome.

The Tarrawingee ladies will be holding their Annual Tournament on Friday, June 7 and any members that are able to assist with the greens would be most appreciated.

New members are always welcome at the Tarrawingee Golf Club by contacting a member or phoning 0428 122 590.

Tarra Ladies

On Tuesday, May 28 the Tarra Ladies played for the Milawa Hotel Stableford Award.

The winner was Lorraine Grenfell.

Next best was Toni Wilson who also scored the NTP on the 13th.

The Club Championships have been finalised.

Toni Wilson won narrowly from Andrea Simmons.

Arrangements are well underway for the Annual Tournament on Fri, June 7.

This major event is generously sponsored by AG Warehouse.

Teams from around the North East Golf District will be competing for the coveted AG Warehouse Bowl.

WANG CROQUET CLUB

RESULTS for Monday, May 27 are as follows:

Wendy Waddington and Terry Wilson d Sally Fisher and Susan Fischer 7/4, Joan Dyson and Cheryle Beckley d Dawn Wind and Pauline Bailey 7/2, Gabi Heywood and Andy Barbero d Janet Kelly and Nathan Reynolds 6/5, Gavan Kelly d Christine Ireland7/5.

Play is on Monday, Wednesday and Saturday commencing at 1.00pm.

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

in a very tight game of baseball.

Round 7 games on Sunday are:

A Grade: Bears Gold vs Rangers Grey at Targoora Park.

Wodonga Warriors vs Rangers Black at Gayview Park Wodonga.

Bears Green vs Porepunkah Panthers at Springdale Heights, Lavington.

B Grade: Bears vs Bandits at Springdale Heights.

Warriors vs Rangers Orange at Gayview Park.

Panthers have the bye.

C Grade: Bears vs Panthers at Springdale Heights.

Warriors vs Rangers at Gayview Park. Under 12/15s: Bears vs United at Springdale Heights.

Warriors vs Rangers at Gayview Park.

Panthers have the bye.

WARBY WALKERS

On Sunday, May 26 on a beautiful autumn day, 11 walkers set off on the first of two loop walks both starting from the middle of the Bright township.

The Cherry Walk is a 5km loop walk following the Ovens River upstream, crossing two bridges and turning back at the second.

The walk is named after the Cherry family who farmed in the area in the late 1800s.

We had lunch in the central river park and then set off on the Canyon Walk which is also a 5km loop walk this time following the Ovens River downstream to another bridge and then returning.

There is plenty of goldmining evidence on this walk with numerous tail races dug through the rock on show! We were back to the main riverside park for afternoon tea and a sad announcement.

Long time club member, walks leader, committee member and afternoon tea coordinator, Pat Kuhle who has been a superb “Keeper of the Urns” and supplier of multi coloured snakes, has sadly decided to hang up her boots and poles plus hand over her famous box of cuppa supplies which has been appreciated over 10 years, She will be greatly missed. Thanks Pat.

Coming events

Saturday, June 8

Kelly’s Cave and Lookout Walk, Eldorado (John, 0417 391 044)

A medium walk of about 13k, mostly on an undulating gravel road then off track into the bush to locate the Kelly lookout and cave in the Chiltern – Mount Pilot NP.

Wednesday, June 19

White Box Walk, Chiltern-Mt Pilot NP (Jeanette, 0417 546 974)

A mid-week afternoon easy loop walk of about 8k of the White Box Walking Track in the Chiltern – Mount Pilot National Park.

The walk is mostly on bush track, with some gravel roads, it starts and finishes at the Honeyeater Picnic Area, and takes in the former goldmining landscape and remnant Box-Ironbark Forest.

High hopes for Gold Coast

DIREEN TO DREAM BIG AT SCHOOLBOY AFL NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS

GALEN Catholic College student Archer Direen will be reaching for the stars when he touches down on the Gold Coast for the School Sport Australia Football National Championships.

Archer was selected as a part of a squad of 25 for Victoria last week, and is set to play among the best young footballers aged 15-years and under in the country at the week-long carnival from July 27 to August 3.

The junior Imperials star’s selection follows his taste of national competition in the under 12s carnival in 2021.

Archer said he was looking forward to pulling the Big V jumper back on later in the season.

“It feels very good to be selected, I’m very nervous, but looking forward to it,” he said.

The selection process started out with around 600 footballers across the state for stage one trials, which involved match simulations as players were thrown across the ground in multiple positions.

The final two stages took place at the Essendon Football Club headquarters, going from 160 players in stage two, to 72 in the final stage.

BY BAILEY ZIMMERMANN bzimmermann@ nemedia.com.au

With less spots up for grabs this year due to Victoria only entering one team instead of two, Archer was still able to make a highly sought after spot on the squad.

Team manager also from Galen Catholic College, Aron Lombardi, said Archer had strong displays in each of the three trials.

“He has an amazing ability to play a number of positions and covers the ground really well, with an engine to run all day,” he said.

“Being a good height for his age, strong football ability and a large running capacity; he will give the team a lot of flexibility at the National Championships at the end of July.

“It’s great to see another Wangaratta player in the squad.”

Archer has been a big part of the under 17s Imperials undefeated start to the season through the midfield, as the team sits on top of the ladder.

“It’s been a great start to the season, I’ve got a lot of good mates at the Imps,” Archer said.

“I like playing mid because you get a lot of the ball.”

The 14-year-old has already had a taste of thirds football with Wangaratta Rovers this season, lining up against Albury.

Archer said he trained with the team throughout pre-season and regularly trains at WJ Findlay Oval during the week.

“My experience of playing with the Rovers was good, it was very different to junior league as in the game is faster and more intense,” he said.

Archer’s selection in the under 15s football squad follows fellow local Blake Newton’s last year, who went on to make the tournament’s AllAustralian team.

Archer said he looked up to Blake and his achievements in Ballarat the year prior, wanting to follow in his footsteps.

“I’ve watched how he plays and seen what I need to work on to make the team,” he said.

“I reckon it’s a big push, but I would like to make the AllAustralian team.”

Archer said he was looking forward to his first visit to the sunshine state with a couple of friends who also made the team from the 2021 under 12s national carnival.

Division three men hang on for tough win

WANGARATTA’s division two women’s team was determined to make amends for their disappointing result the previous week, when they took on ladder leaders Falcons.

Falcons showed why they are undefeated early in the first quarter forcing Wangaratta to defend gamely, facing numerous short corners and struggling to clear the ball from their defensive 25.

Tayla Coonan was outstanding in goals, ably supported by Katie Crane, Paula Collins, Carli Notman and Kate Reilly who prevented Falcons getting any easy shots at goal, going into the first break 0-0.

The second quarter saw Falcons again press Wanga-

ratta to eventually take a 1-0 lead, but Wangaratta refused to succumb and as the midfield began to link more effectively, Wangaratta started to apply pressure to Falcons.

Some quick passing breaks between Emma Gall, Lucy North and Ellie Samson on the right saw Wangaratta force their way down the field and into attack.

Solid play from Christy Christie, Sally Moore, Chloe Collins and Sharon Watkins gave the Dragons options out wide on the left, providing plenty of drive into attack, getting in behind the Falcons defence and being rewarded with their own short corners.

It took until mid-way through the final quarter when Falcons capitalised on some loose marking to

put their second goal on the board.

Wangaratta once again dug deep and a fast break from a turn over saw Lucy North, Emma Gall and Kate Reilly combine to put Wangaratta on the scoreboard.

Wangaratta continued to force Falcons into defence but time was against them, and they had to be content with a 1-2 scoreline.

It was a fun game for the div three ladies against Falcons Black on Saturday

The final score does not resemble how hard and strong the Dragons gave the Falcons a run for their money.

Falcons scored a quick four goals in the first half.

The Dragons defence was too strong in the second half and Falcons were not able to

score any further goals.

Brianna Cooper snuck in a goal from a short corner which put Dragons on the board.

Best on ground was Brooke Monshing for all her efforts in attack and defence.

The division three men travelled up the highway to Albury on Saturday to take on the Falcons.

With Michael Wheeler, John Lee and Ollie Chambers (new hockey stick in hand) returning from injury it was shaping up to be a clash to remember.

With goals from Izaac Cameron and Luke Mercer, the men looked like they were going to have very successful trip but the home team came out in the second half and responded with two quick goals.

With some great defence from Michael McMurrie and the midfielders the Dragons held onto their 3 - 2 victory.

The under 14 girls travelled up the highway to lock horns with Scots last Saturday.

Scots started well and if not for the great goalkeeping by Caitlyn Barnden, the girls would have conceded more goals.

The girls improved markedly in the second half and started to create many opportunities.

Dara Cleeve had her best game in ‘the green’ and thwarted many attacks.

Kiana Lane and Maddy Shallue created many opportunities for our attackers who went close to scoring on a couple of occasions.

The girls are improving

week by week and a win is not too far away.

With a full team the under 16 girls faced Scots on Friday night with a positive outlook.

The defenders combined to keep the opposition to only one goal in the first quarter – their best so far this year.

Ellie Samson ably led Eva Siperki, Charlotte Bongers, Charlotte Marshall and Adara Evans, with the girls showing that they are becoming a force to be reckoned with.

The forward line of Ada Wheeler, Chloe Mercer and Bella Goodman playing in a new position pushed hard however were unable to convert.

An even game that was exciting to watch.

FREE SPACE: Lucy North navigates her way through traffic.

FIERCE CHALLENGE: Bri Cooper under pressure from the Falcons defender.

GREAT TOUCH: Lily Radnor tries to protect the ball from the Scots defender in the under 14 girls. PHOTOS: Wes Samson

HOCKEY

DOWN THE LINE: Archer Direen has thrived in the midfield for Imperials and Wangaratta Rovers this year, as selectors revelled his ability to play all positions on the field.

PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

Wangaratta City men eyeing Albury United clash

DRAFTED: Toby Murray was drafted by Adelaide with pick seven in Wednesday’s mid-season draft

PHOTO: Melissa Beattie Toby Murray drafted to Adelaide with pick seven of AFL midseason draft

■ From back page

“I trained with the AFL side over the pre-season too and it was great to have him there, it made the transition pretty easy.”

Murray admitted it’s crazy to think he was playing at Wangaratta Rovers in 2023.

“I went back home a couple of weeks ago and watched Rovers and it was weird to think I was playing there last year,” he said.

“Crazy to think I was there last year and now I’m on an AFL list.”

Murray is the third in his family to make it to the big league with brother and current Rovers coach Sam playing at Sydney and Collingwood from 20162019.

Strangely, all three brothers took the unconventional path to the AFL with Nick joining the Crows as a SSP rookie, while Sam was rookie drafted straight out of Wodonga Raiders.

Their dad Peter also spent time on South Melbourne’s VFL/AFL list in the mid1970s.

By WILLSON MACK

WANGARATTA City faces the tough task of playing Albury United at Jelbart Park but will go into the clash with confidence.

While the Devils have pencilled just the two wins in thus far, a 5-2 beating of Cobram last weekend and a 3-2 loss to the undefeated Myrtleford the week before sees Wangaratta face United with plenty of belief.

Albury United haven’t had as dominant a season as previous years sitting with a 6-3 record, but a 4-2 win over rivals Albury City sees the reigning title winners finding form.

“We’ll take confidence into the match,” Molinaro said.

“Cobram are a team that

we’ve always struggled against and we managed to put five goals on them so that gives us confidence.

“We were 2-0 up against Myrtleford who are undefeated and feel we would’ve won that if we didn’t lose a couple of players to injury.”

After bagging two goals last weekend, Mason Taylor shapes as a massive player as the Devils look to win back-toback games for the first time this season.

“We need to get a run going now if we’re going to have any chance of playing finals,” Molinaro said.

“I feel like we’ve found some form and we’ve shown that any side we play against we’re competitive so hopefully the weekend’s a similar story.”

Branson tries to gain control

Rivals meet in red-hot form

By BAILEY ZIMMERMANN

OLD foes will take to Jelbart Park on Sunday as Wangaratta City’s senior women’s side face Albury United.

The two teams played off in a spate of thrillers last season, which included the green machine ending the Lady Devils season in the semi-final 3-0.

After a slow start this year, United have been winners of their past three games to shoot up to seventh on the standings, while

City have been winners of their past four.

This will be the first meeting between the sides in any competition play this season, and coach Terry Masters said his team would need to be switched on to the challenge United presents.

“They’ve had some good results and some not so good results so far, I believe they have a few players back,” he said.

“They’re the sort of middle table side that if you want to challenge for the top, they’re the sort of

games you have to win.”

Estella Hernandez will return with the gloves after being away last week, forcing the side to employ a makeshift keeper in Caitlin Rizzo who performed admirably in their win against Cobram last week.

A league-wide bye will follow Sunday’s encounter, with the two teams slated to play-off once again following the break on Thursday, June 13.

Masters said the team was looking forward to a break in the

schedule, as they prepare for a busy run of games following the break, which includes four games in 14 days.

“It’ll be good to have a break, because it’s going to be a hectic month for us,” he said.

“We’re at the halfway mark after this game and we’re pretty well placed to really give it a shake.”

Masters said the side will be close to full strength this weekend, despite from the loss of star Bianca Mulqueen, who will be away.

TOUGH TASK: Wangaratta City faces Albury United on Sunday in what looms as a big game.

PHOTO: Kat De Naps Photography

QUICK FEET: Leanne

of the ball during Wangaratta City’s win over Cobram last Sunday. PHOTO: Kat De Naps Photography

CELEBRATING 117 YEARS OF FAMILY ATMOSPHERE

THE Wangaratta Dragons will be celebrating their 117th birthday on their club day this weekend.

Club president, Daniel Warner said the main reason for holding the celebration is to raise awareness of the club’s existence.

“A lot of people don’t even know that we have a hockey club, and we want to highlight that we have been part of the Wangaratta community for nearly 120 years,” he said.

“We want to celebrate it and get the community involved and that makes for a really good club day.”

On the day, Mr Warner said they will have a jumping castle, face painting from some of their juniors, a cake stall, a barbecue, a merch stand, a coffee van, a cake cutting alongside the many hockey games being played.

Mr Warner said one of the main attractions will be the under 10s and under 7s hockey carnival being played from 9.30am to 11.30am alongside five other teams playing home games throughout the day.

He said the club day and the junior carnivals will highlight the family atmosphere that makes the club special.

“We have a lot of parents who are playing with their children in some of our senior teams, we’ve also got some parents that play in the seniors and have two or three kids playing in the junior teams as well,” he said.

“That’s what makes us so ex-

BY CHLOE JAENICKE cjaenicke@ nemedia.com.au

citing and so amazing is that we embrace the whole family atmosphere welcome anyone who wants to come and play.”

Mr Warner said over the years the club has had many ups and downs.

“In the 1950s we actually had our own association so surrounding towns would actually send all their teams to play in the Wangaratta Hockey Association,” he said.

“Over time it dwindled a bit and in the mid-70s it was deemed that no international hockey would be played on grass anymore.

“That’s when they started building synthetic fields and unfortunately due to declining numbers, we didn’t have the support to build a synthetic field back then.”

Despite the hardships, the club has kept going and Mr Warner said he is proud of how they’ve evolved and hopes they keep growing.

“In the last five years we’ve gone from 40 members to 150 players, so we’ve tripled in size.”

The club day will take place on June 1 at the Cathedral College hockey fields with the festivities starting at 9.30am.

If anyone would like to play or learn more about the club, they can contact Mr Warner on 0417 217 987.

Knights raring to go with a welcome home game this Sunday

WANGARATTA Knights are primed for their home game this weekend in Goulburn Murray Storm Premiership rugby league this Sunday at the Glenrowan recreation reserve..

“After two weeks on the road it will be great to be back at home in front of our ever growing fans base,” Knights president Brent Hansen said.

“The community of Glenrowan and entire Wangaratta area has really started to embrace rugby league and show their support when

games are played here.

“Our Ladies league tag team has made the trip to Glenrowan a formidable one this season with both games previously played here being a win and a draw.

“Both teams are excited to welcome the Tumbarumba Greens down the Hume, it’s a great way to see where we are at halfway through the season coming up against such a strong club.”

The Knights are in a good place at present with both teams playing good footy

and the culture becoming stronger each week.

“The family atmosphere around the place is something we have all worked so hard to create and embrace,” Hansen said.

“The introduction of our Junior “come and try” hour from 12:30pm has been really well received and is a great addition to our game days.”

“If you’d like to experience this for yourself the gates open at 8am this Sunday with the first game being at 10am.

“Canteen (from 9:30am)

and bar (11am) will be in full swing, entry is $5 for anyone over 16 (but show a Glenrowan address on your ID and get in for free).

“We can’t wait to see you all at the Glenrowan recreation reserve.” Game times:

10am - Ladies Border Bears v CSU Muddogs.

11:15am - Ladies Wang Knights v Tumba Greens.

12:30pm - Juniors “come and try”.

1:30pm - Mens Border Bears v CSU Muddogs.

3:15pm - Mens Wang Knights v Tumba Greens.

JOIN THE KNIGHTS ARMY: Pictured (from left) Brent Hansen Knights president and Mathew Ferguson, men’s coach welcome new players and supporters to attend training or games.

PHOTO: Adelaide Fitzpatrick

MILESTONE CELEBRATION: Dragon’s club members, Xavier Bennett, Daniel Warner and Edward Robertson are looking forward to this weekend’s club celebrations.

Demons look to put out flames of in-form Bats

BY BAILEY ZIMMERMANN bzimmermann@ nemedia.com.au

A POTENTIAL eight-point swing could be in play at Milawa on Saturday as the Demons look to tame Goorambat.

Milawa and the Bats enter their clash separated by a mere two per cent on the ladder in fourth and fifth, emerging as the two biggest challengers to top three teams in Bright, Greta and Bonnie Doon.

Demons coach Matt Graham said it would be a big game for his team in the grand scale of the season.

“They’ve recruited extremely well and they’ve got players in good form,” he said.

“Players like Jamie Dunne, you know what he’s going to bring to the game every single week, Duane Haebich has turned back the clock in the forward line kicking goals every week.

“They seem to start games similar to us, as they’re slow to get going and usually get on top in the second half and that’s very similar to us.

“It will be a battle of the first half I’d say, whoever

can get on top early has the chance to come away with the game.”

While the two teams find themselves in similar positions, both have had vastly contrasting experiences this season to date.

The Demons have been hammered by injury after being touted as a premiership

DOGS HAVE THEIR BIT BACK

By BAILEY ZIMMERMANN

TARRAWINGEE will be look-

ing to continue their resurgence up the ladder at Whorouly on Saturday

After coming off a tumultuous month of games which included losses against Greta, Milawa and Bonnie Doon, the Dogs have built their way back into form with needed wins against North Wangaratta and Moyhu and a massive 53-goal win over Benalla last week.

Coach Maddie Canning said her side has no abundance of confidence following an impressive stretch of games.

“The team is gelling really well at the moment and we are really starting to find some momentum,” she said.

“We’ve been focusing on our systems, defence and second and third efforts and these things are starting to show up on the court.

“I’ve been really proud of how the girls have bounced back after a couple of tough games, we haven’t had a full team for the last few weeks but the depth within the team has allowed me to swing players around and trust they will just go out and do their job with 110 per cent effort.”

Kaylee Allan has been in lethal

fancy during pre-season, losing stars Ben Clarke and Ricky Petts for the season and going through multiple losses to key players throughout, including the likes of Harry Allan and Nick Giggins.

Meanwhile Goorambat have surpassed plenty of expectations as this season’s biggest riser, recruiting

strongly throughout the offseason to see them almost certainly improving on their ninth-placed finish last year.

Graham said while he expected Allan, Giggins and Brent Newton to return this week after having the week off with the bye, the injury bug still remained at the club, with Dan Bihun and

Jimmy Flynn to potentially miss.

“As soon as we get two in, we have two out, which we’ve sort of become accustomed to dealing with this year,” he said.

“I think the club as a whole has been quite proactive over the last c ouple of seasons to build that

form in recent weeks and has hot up to the top of the season goal scoring tally with 300 through the ring, while Annie Creed and Tig White have been in-form in defence and through the midcourt.

Whorouly will be looking to halt Tarrawingee’s momentum though and break a slump of their own, after having faced a similarly challenging draw as Tar-

rawingee, playing Milawa, Greta and Bonnie Doon in consecutive weeks.

Canning said the Lions would be a tough challenge, but the team will be bolstered by the returns of Mollie Shanley and Tayla McPhail.

“Whorouly will be a tough game, they are a great side and always match up well on us so we’ve just got to stick to the game plan and execute,” she said.

depth at the club.

“We’ve been able to tap in and have a bit of assistance if required from the Wangaratta Tigers Junior Football Club, there’s players always available there who are willing to pull on a red and blue jumper.

“We’ve been able to get that depth of 20-28 year old footballers that are in there hopefully fighting week in and week out for a spot, so the depth of the footy club has fortunately been in a really good position.

“It’s been able to keep us competitive in both grades, even with the plethora of injuries we’ve already had.”

Duane Haebich has been the recruit of the season so far for the Bats, kicking a total of 49 goals through eight games and will be the player to watch for the Demons.

In other games across the league, North Wangaratta will make their way to Bonnie Doon to face the Bombers, Greta host King Valley, Bright look to rebound against Moyhu and Tarrawingee will be after consecutive wins at Whorouly. All teams will be taking a week off with the leaguewide King’s Birthday round bye next week, marking the halfway mark of the season.

O&K leading goal kicker to miss two weeks for striking

By BAILEY ZIMMERMANN

THE O&K’S leading goal kicker has been suspended for two weeks for striking.

Bright’s Cooper Thomason was reported during Saturday’s match against Greta for striking Alex Fitzpatrick behind play in the Mountain Men’s 22-point loss to the Blues.

An AFL North East Border spokesperson said initial gradings had Thomason missing four weeks for the strike, but was corrected during a tribunal hearing during the week.

The young star submitted an early guilty plea, which brought down his time to be served from three weeks to two.

“Kaylee Allan has really found her groove in the circle and has been playing confidently so I expect the same from her this weekend.”

In other games, Bright and Moyhu will look to keep in touch with the top six when they face off in Moyhu, while King Valley take on Greta, Milawa play Goorambat and North Wangaratta head to Bonnie Doon.

Thomason has made a strong start to this season, kicking 52 goals through eight games to lead all-comers in the senior competition.

The 20-year-old kicked 162 goals combined in the last two season and went on to lead the league’s goal kicking last season. Bright will be without their marquee forward for matches against Moyhu and Goorambat away from home.

NO-LOOK: Tarrawingee coach Maddie Canning has been proud of her team’s bounce back in recent weeks as they look for a fourth straight win against Whorouly.

PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

BIG CHALLENGE: Jarryd Wallace and the Demons will look to halt one of the most improved teams in the competition in Goorambat.

PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

‘Pies and Tigers come together to fight the beast

By WILLSON MACK

WANGARATTA returns from the interleague bye with a blockbuster clash against Albury at the Albury Sportsground.

With both teams separated by just one win, the result may be vital come the pointy end of the season.

While the on-field battle will be one to watch, both Wangaratta and Albury will be coming together for a ‘Big Freeze’ event to raise money for Motor Neurone Disease.

Wangaratta’s Tony Smart was given the dreaded MND diagnosis in 2018 and everyone at the Albury Sportsground will come together to watch border personalities slide into icy water post the senior football in a bid to fight MND.

Wangaratta coach Ben Reid will be one of the sliders, alongside 11 other people, and said he’s looking forward to taking the plunge.

“It’s a great cause and close to home given Harry (Smart) plays for us and Tony’s fighting the beast,” Reid said.

“It’s something a lot of people are getting around, you see the blue beanies everywhere so hopefully there’s plenty of people down there on Saturday.

“It’s a great initiative by Albury too, maybe this could be a yearly thing between the two clubs for the years to come.”

While the Tigers have had an up and down season sitting in fifth with a 4-3 record, they managed to knock off ladder leaders Yarrawonga prebye and look to have found some form.

“Like us they’ve had an up and

down start to the year but they knocked off Yarrawonga which showed they’re still one of the best sides in the competition,” Reid said.

“They’re a really strong contest side and their pressure is pretty hot – I rate (Rhys) King up there as just about the best pressure player in the competition, some of the stuff he does is unique for this standard of footy.

“They then have plenty of match winners, their keys like the Conlan boys (Luke and Jacob) if they play, Mat Walker and Lachie Tiziani up forward and then Isaac Muller in the ruck is their trump card.”

Muller, who leads the league in

hit outs and sits third in clearances, shapes as a massive task for Wangaratta big man Chris Knowles.

“Muller doesn’t lose too many battles but I reckon ‘Knowlesy’ is up for it,” Reid said.

“’Knowlesy’s had a good few weeks so I’m keen to see him have a crack.

“Our mids are also going to have to get to work in there and match their physicality because when Albury gets out the front of stoppage they can be damaging.”

The Magpies are hopeful of seeing the return of Hunter Gottschling, while Nick Richards will also come back into the side.

Meanwhile, Rovers will host Myrtl-

JUNIOR MAGPIES BIG FREEZE FUNDRAISER

MND is a Beast.

It is an insidious disease without any effective treatment or a cure.

The Wangaratta Junior Magpies Football Club will again be taking part in the Big Freeze 10 Campaign to Support Fight MND.

On Saturday, June 1 starting at 8.30am, the under 12s, 14s and 17s will be pulling on the Big Freeze socks to show their support.

To further support this campaign, the following businesses Elite Family Homes QLD, Reality Fine Clothing, Gateway Quality Hotel, Donna Bella Lingerie, Londrigan Finer Foods, Your Everyday Gourmet, John Wohler’s Jewellers, Bunnings Wangaratta, Spirited Party Shop, Robertson’s Pharmacy, Ramsay Pharmacy, Old Faithful’s Brew and Bar,

Scoops Wangaratta, Edgar’s News Agency, Marc and Lisa Scalzo (Piano Piano Wines) have kindly donated items towards a community raffle.

Tickets can be purchased on game day (outside the canteen) or using the below QR Code.

Tickets are $2 or 3 for $5. Prizes will be drawn after half-time of the 17s game.

‘Pies netballers refreshed after bye

By WILLSON MACK

WANGARATTA are fit and firing after a weekend off where no players featured at interleague level.

The Magpies meet the last placed Albury at the Albury Sportsground tomorrow and look a massive chance at extending their unbeaten run to eight games.

Magpies coach Shea Cunningham said her side is feeling refreshed.

“Given the skill level of the competition you can’t be complacent and take anyone lightly,” Cunningham said.

“The girls are freshened up and ready to go, we had a good hit out training during the week.

eford as they look to bounce back from their first loss of the season.

After falling to Wodonga before the interleague bye, the Hawks will be odds-on favourites to return to the winners’ list against the Saints.

While Myrtleford has only won the two games this season, besides their 45-point loss to Wangaratta, they’ve been within 25-points in all other games and will be confident this weekend coming off back-toback wins.

The Saints have plenty of quality with Lachie Murphy-Dale dangerous up forward, while Matt Munro and Frazer Dale are players to watch in the midfield.

Vs Albury at the Albury Sports Ground

“We want to make sure we’re ready to go coming off the bye.”

Cunningham admitted her side started slow after the split round three weeks ago.

“Something we noticed was that we were slow coming off the split round so we’ve done a few things to make sure that doesn’t happen again,” she said.

“We’ve done a fair bit of match simulation type stuff and hopefully that has a positive impact to how we start.

“Hopefully our intensity is high from the first whistle.”

The Magpies seem to be getting better and better every game, sitting a win clear at the top of the ladder after handing CorowaRutherglen their first loss pre-bye.

“We feel like we’re building every week which is all you can ask as a coach,” Cunningham said.

“I think we’ve still got heaps we can improve on so to be at the top of the ladder having not dropped a game is great.

“This weekend the goal is to stick to structures, keep possession of the ball and keep the intensity up for the full four quarters.”

Meanwhile, Wangaratta Rovers hosts the seventh placed Myrtleford.

The Hawks have won just the one game this season and could go on equal points with the Saints if they manage to salute.

FIGHT MND: (L-R) Harry Smart, Tony Smart, Anthony Miles and James Pitson look forward to the family event to raise much-needed funds for motor neurone disease.

PHOTO: Speak Creative

BIG EFFORT: Wangaratta Junior Magpies Football Club will be pulling on the Big Freeze socks to show their support for the Big Freeze fundraiser.

Port Adelaide vs.

Friday, May 31

Collingwood vs.

Saturday, June 1

(AO) (N)

Bulldogs (MRVL) (N)

Hawthorn vs. Adelaide Crows (MCG) West Coast Eagles vs. St Kilda (OS)

IN the space of 12 months Toby Murray has gone from playing footy for Wangaratta Rovers to finding himself on an AFL list.

The 201cm forward/ruck was drafted to Adelaide with pick seven of Wednesday’s mid-season draft off the back of strong performances for Adelaide’s SANFL side.

BY WILLSON MACK wmack@ nemedia.com.au

can’t really believe it,” Murray said.

ARCHER Direen is looking to take it up to the very best in the country as he was selected in the Victorian squad for School Sport Australia National Championships.

The 20-year-old wasted no time in stamping his authority on the SANFL, booting four goals on debut and has gone from strength to strength ever since.

“Adelaide told me yesterday (Wednesday) morning that they were going to take me so it was a long wait until my name was called out last night but it was a special day.

Murray said he still can’t believe he’s on an AFL list.

“It’s pretty crazy, I still

“Originally I just wanted to move over there, make a good first impression and

knuckle down but then I had a break out performance in round one and from there I had a few conversations with Adelaide.

“As it got closer to the mid-season draft I heard a few things and made it my goal to do everything I could to get drafted and fortunately it all went to plan.”

Murray joins his brother

Nick at the Crows who is playing his first game back from an ACL injury with the pair playing together in the SANFL when they face West Adelaide at Hisense Stadium.

With a four year age difference separating the pair, it will be the first time they’ve shared a football field since under 14s at Henty.

“I think we played a couple of games together in under 14s but that’s it,” Murray said.

“Having Nick over here has been huge for me though, he didn’t get picked up the traditional way either so he’s given me plenty of advice and I’ve tried to replicate what he does.

■ Continued page 38

PHOTO: Kurt Hickling