Wangaratta Chronicle 310723

Microchip, register pets to avoid delays in return

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THE welfare of animals travelling to Albury has been one of the major concerns for pet owners following Wangaratta council’s new contract with Albury Animal Care Centre.

Council cut ties with RSPCA Wangaratta as it sought a better value for money deal with the Albury centre to manage the unhoused animals from Wangaratta for the next two years.

However, since the contract started on July 1, there have been 13 animals picked up by Wangaratta council rangers, with nine returned to owners “very quickly” as they were microchipped.

Three of the four animals taken to Albury were not microchipped or registered and the remaining animal was microchipped, however, the owner’s records were not current.

At Wangaratta council’s July council meeting last week, public question time was moved to the beginning due to a greater level of interest, with members of the gallery asking about the processes within the new arrangement.

Margaret Shelton asked whether council’s tender process included consideration of additional trauma inflicted on unsettled or lost animals, “possibly already suffering from injury, stress, abuse or neglect”.

She questioned the process of sending animals to

BY STEVE KELLY

MUSICAL CLASSIC

Albury in a distressed state, exerting that she believed this could constitute animal cruelty.

Ms Shelton also quizzed council on the fact people will no longer be able to visit the Wangaratta pound and adopt an animal.

Council director of sustainability and culture, Stephen Swart, fielded a barrage of questions and comments but he assured the gallery that the welfare of animals and supporting responsible pet ownership remained a priority for council.

“This is reflected in our processes related to the contract with Albury Animal Care Centre,” he said.

“This includes reuniting animals with owners as quickly as possible if we can find and get in touch with owners.

“Ensuring an animal is registered and microchipped and your contact details are up to date will help us with this.

“Providing animals with the vet care they need, and in instances when an animal is not fit for transport, officers will not transport it and will seek local vet care for that animal.

■ Continued page 2

skelly@ nemedia.com.au

CATHEDRAL College students Makenzie Clark, Campbell Timms and Eliza Murrells are excited to star in their school’s production of Singin’ in the Rain in August.

PHOTO: Chloe Jaenicke ■ See story page 2

Council responds to barrage of concerns over pound deal

■ From page 1

“Keeping animals in a local short-term holding facility that meets animal welfare standards as needed while continuing to try and get in contact with the owner of that animal.

“We will minimise the number of animals needed to be transported to Albury by reuniting as many as possible with their owners, as quickly as possible.”

Community members whose animals are taken to Albury after the first 24 hours are encouraged to contact council and can arrange for the return of their animals through the animal transport service that will run on Mondays, Wednesdays, and

Fridays each week.

Wangaratta residents will be able to adopt a pet via the Albury Animal Care Centre and details will be online.

Mr Swart encouraged anyone who has lost a pet to contact council as soon as possible, even if an animal is unregistered.

Rural city CEO Brendan McGrath explained that council is going to further investigate operating a pound in Wangaratta when the two-year contract with Albury council expires.

“The RSPCA, in my conversations with the CEO, have been very open over the last couple of years that they want to return their focus to the prevention of cruelty to animals,” Mr

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McGrath recollected.

“They were very clear with me that operating that pound was cost prohibitive for them and it was taking resources away from their ability to look after animals.

“We have received a number of increases in that contract fee over the period since then and that’s something they said would happen.

“Through our most recent tender process the cost of using them for that service just no longer represented good value for money for anybody.”

The non-renewal of the contract with the RSPCA is expected to save rural city ratepayers $500,000 over two years.

Cathedral College’s Singin’ in the Rain performance in August

BY CHLOE JAENICKE cjaenicke@ nemedia.com.au

STUDENTS from Cathedral College are getting their raincoats and umbrellas ready to perform Singin’ in the Rain.

The musical follows silent film stars, Don Lockwood and Lina Lamont, trying to make the transition from silent films to talkies while a love affair between Don and a chorus girl, Kathy Seldon, begins that could make or break careers.

The students from Cathedral College have been rehearsing for weeks and co-director, Ben Hedderman, said he’s enjoyed the enthusiasm showed by the ensemble.

“They’ve been really keen and that makes a difference for everyone else,” he said.

“It’s always easier for the leads when the ensemble put a lot of effort in, the whole thing lifts so that’s been really good.”

Eliza Murrells, who plays Kathy Seldon, said what she’s enjoyed most about rehearsals is the connections she’s made with the cast.

“I’ve enjoyed the sense of community and the friendships that we’ve all built in such a short amount of time,” she said.

Over the course of rehearsals, the students have worked on perfecting their characters and are looking forward to performing them for an audience.

“I enjoy that I get to be funny on stage, my character is just about falling over and being funny, so I could just laugh at any point and it’s not out of character,” Makenzie Clark, who portrays Cosmo Brown, said.

“I really enjoy the songs and Cathy’s are just kind of different to other songs that I’ve sung before because she’s very innocent and sweet,” Eliza said.

Campbell Timms, who portrays Don Lockwood, said he’s especially excited to perform Singin’ in the Rain as it was one of his favourite musicals

growing up.

“I actually had this really great video that I showed Mr Hedderman, trying to get him to choose Singin’ in the Rain, of me as a two-year-old singing Singin’ in the Rain, it was my favourite musical as a kid,” he said.

The show has something for everyone to enjoy and Mr Hedderman said every moment in the show is a standout.

“I think the audience is going to like the arc of the story and I think it’s going to be a very interesting and engaging show to watch from start to finish,” he

said.

The performance will take place at the WPACC on Friday, August 11 and Saturday, August 12 at 7.30pm.

To book tickets visit https:// www.wpacc.com.au/Whats-On/ Cathedral-College-WangarattaSingin-in-the-Rain-Jr.

FIT AS A FIDDLE: Makenzie Clark, Eliza Murrells and Campbell Timms are looking forward to performing together in Singin’ in the Rain.

PHOTO: Chloe Jaenicke

MICROCHIP PETS AND UPDATE DETAILS: Council director of sustainability and culture Stephen Swart explained the processes behind the return of pets to owners if they’re collected by rangers.

Assault accused remanded over aggravated attack

A WANGARATTA man who forced his way into a rural city home and repeatedly punched and used a batonlike object to assault a man last year will remain in custody until at least October.

Appearing before Wangaratta Magistrates Court on Thursday, the 26-year-old pleaded guilty to charges including reckless cause injury, possess amphetamine and possess imitation firearm stemming from the September 6 attack.

Prosecutor Glenn Mohammed told the court the accused and an unidenti-

fied man had attended an Inchbold Street home in a blue Holden Commodore around 1.30am, when the accused forced entry into the home and confronted two residents, one of whom was his ex-partner, in the master bedroom.

His former partner was said to have quickly jumped on top of the victim in an effort to protect him from the accused, however, the victim allegedly remonstrated with the accused and was repeatedly assaulted to the head.

The court heard the assault was only ceased when

the unidentified man entered the home and broke the pair up, before they drove from the scene.

According to Mr Mohammed, the victim was admitted to Northeast Health Wangaratta around 3.40am complaining of “horrendous” pain in his head, which had been split open in the attack.

Doctors used adhesive to close the wounds, and the victim was later discharged around 8am.

Police later spotted the blue Commodore at the front of an Irving Street home on September 11, and arrested

the accused at the address.

A bag containing amphetamine was located in the front seat of the vehicle, while an imitation firearm was located after the vehicle was towed to Wangaratta Police Station.

Defence counsel Vincent Peters said the accused had only commenced the assault when the victim allegedly “took a swing”, however, Magistrate Ian Watkins noted the circumstances of the aggravated burglary meant it “couldn’t be said (the accused) was the peacemaker”.

Mr Peters said his client had a “fairly troubled his-

tory”, and noted several incidents for which he had been sentenced since 2018 had occurred under the influence of drugs and PTSD.

He said the accused had stressed his need for grief counselling and management following circumstances where he had found two of his friends deceased in 2018, an incident which had “permanently altered the way (the accused) sees life”. However, Mr Mohammed said the latest spate of offending shared many similarities with an armed robbery in 2018 for which the accused

was handed a 38 month jail term.

He said the accused’s prospects of rehabilitation were “guarded” as a result, and urged Mr Watkins to impose a prison sentence with a nonparole period.

However, Mr Watkins questioned whether a community corrections order targeting the accused’s mental health could improve his prospects.

He ordered the accused undergo assessment by corrections officers before the matter returns to court on October 9.

Victoria Police’s friendly face looking out for local youths

BY RYAN MALCOLM rmalcolm@

SURROUNDED by the hustle and bustle of the modern police station, Wangaratta’s First Constable Hayley McDonald cuts a calm figure, as she works to divert youth from further run-ins with the law.

Serving as Wangaratta’s youth specialist officer (YSO) over the last five months, Const McDonald’s role has changed significantly from her first exposure as a regional police officer, trading in her regular uniform beat for a responsibility which is much more proactive in nature.

Now tasked with overseeing and addressing criminal activity carried out by those between the ages of 10 and 20, Const McDonald said she worked closely with local support initiatives to limit recidivism throughout the North East.

“The YSO is more of a proactive role, linking vulnerable youth to the relevant stakeholders for support and guidance,” she said.

“I also work with staff who manage our residential houses, and the youth living in the houses – another area of my role is working together with stakeholders who are already engaged with offending youth, providing

assistance with navigating the justice system, liaising with prosecutors and anything else as the need arises.”

Const McDonald said in some cases, as many as six different organisations may be providing supports

to a single young person in a community, requiring regular check-ins with stakeholders and young people across Alpine, Indigo, Towong, Moira, Wangaratta and Wodonga shires.

She said she regularly directed youths to initiatives

such as Junction Support, NESAY, Gateway Health and Headspace, and continued to dialogue with young offenders while they engaged with local supports.

By working in conjunction with youth resource officers (YROs) tasked with

visiting schools and educating young people and communities on safety issues, Const McDonald said police had committed to proactively policing within the community.

“I love how regional towns have really close networks, and I think this is especially important in my role,” she said.

“I have some really great relationships with stakeholders in the community which makes it so easy to work together.

“I regularly attend meetings which include community and government stakeholders, including schools, so we have all available services working together to achieve positive outcomes for young people.

“There’s often a belief within the community that police are for when people need help because an incident has occurred.

“The youth roles really demonstrate that we have a huge impact on proactive measures and we work hard to promote support and education for our community.”

To engage with Const McDonald, contact Wangaratta Police Station on 5723 0888.

HELPING HAND: As youth specialist officer for the state’s North East, First Constable Hayley McDonald plays a key role in overseeing support for youth offenders.

PHOTO: Ryan Malcolm

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Alleged NDIS salary thief kept diary of alleged pay rise

A WANGARATTA business owner has denied knowledge she was being paid the same as the woman who allegedly stole more than $77,000 in salary from the local National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) provider. The accused has pleaded not guilty to theft by de-

ception, after her wage increased eight separate times between June 2020 and July 2021, ultimately resulting in an hourly pay rate of more than $91.

Under cross examination from defence lawyer Jamie Singh at Wangaratta Magistrates Court on Thursday, the alleged

victim maintained the accused had been responsible for the business’ payroll, and had not consulted the victim when increasing her own pay.

Mr Singh tendered diary entries which had been kept by accused, which allegedly detailed discussions with the victim about

the proposed pay increases, and questioned whether the victim had any notes to prove her assertion the meetings had never taken place. “How can I take a document when there was no meeting?” the victim said in response to multiple lines of questioning.

Mr Singh also tendered a number of bank statements, which showed the victim and the accused were both subject to the same pay rate, however, the victim disputed the pair had ever discussed being paid the same amount as each other. She said she had trusted

the accused.

The matter was adjourned to December 6, when the victim will return to the witness stand for further cross examination.

A further three witnesses and the police informant are expected to provide evidence at the hearing.

RSL commemorates 70 years since the Korean War ceased

WANGARATTA RSL

commemorated the 70th anniversary of the signing of the Korean Armistice Agreement which intended to bring a complete cease fire of hostilities of the Korean War, last Thursday.

Liz Rouse-Salmon hosted the morning tea event and said while she wasn’t directly involved in the Korean War, she still thinks it’s important to remember.

“There’s so few of these veterans left and Korea was known as the forgotten war,” she said.

One of the attendees was Max Hayes from Bright who was a part of the Australian Airforce for six years and was one of the 17,000 Australians who served in the Korean War.

He joined the Airforce in December 1950, not long after the Korean War started on June 25 that year.

He said it’s important to commemorate the signing of the Armistice Agreement in 1953 to honour the millions who died in the war and as a reminder that the conflicts of the war still exist today in North and South Korea.

“Two or three million people were killed during that war,” he said.

“And although it’s currently in a state of truce, it’s never truly ended.”

FORGOTTEN WAR: Anna Wise, Bright RSL president Phillip Keegan, war veteran Max Hayes, Ray Sellars, Toni Moore, Birght RSL vice president Judy Moore, Kay Adams, Liz Rouse-Salmon and Bob Hayward all came together to commemorate the 70th anniversary of the signing of the Korean Armistice Agreement.

Aspiring students get help from flying doctors

Monday, July 29

By PETER DOUGLAS

TWO Wangaratta students have scored a $2500 scholarship, courtesy of the Royal Flying Doctor Service Victoria.

Marilyn Vickery and Mikaela Vaughan’s hard work has been rewarded through the Give Them Wings scholarships, which is designed to encourage the next generation of nursing and health professionals from rural communities.

The pair will each receive a Royal Flying Doctor experience, as well as funds to help cover university costs.

Marilyn is an aspiring nurse, who once attended the tiny Carraragarmungee Primary School and now studies with La Trobe University in AlburyWodonga.

She said it was her experiences while volunteering with Wangaratta SES that sparked her interest.

“I attended several motor vehicle accidents and was impressed by the way paramedics cared for the injured,” she said.

“It really got me thinking about nursing.

“I like the hands-on, practical care involved, especially when the people are vulnerable.”

Mikaela hopes to enter the profession of physiotherapy, which she said may be because of her days playing netball with Wangaratta Rovers.

“I was always rolling my

ankles and going to the physio.” she said.

“It got me thinking about sports physio as a career, but then I realised there were so many other avenues into the profession.”

At present, Mikaela is interested in the neurological side of physiotherapy and how it can help people who have had a stroke or been involved in a car accident.

Mikaela moved from Wangaratta to study at the Peninsula campus of Monash University.

Rural Health Workforce

Woman avoids conviction after lobbing firewood at victim

from his own home.

A WANGARATTA woman who lobbed a piece of firewood at her victim during a heated argument earlier this month has avoided a conviction for her actions.

TAKING OFF: Mikaela Vaughan’s ambition of becoming a physiotherapist has received a welcome boost. She is pictured with her dogs, Hamish and Annie.

chief executive officer, Greg Sam, said the scholarships recognise the importance of rural students in helping to reduce Australia’s rural health workforce shortages.

“We think these scholarships will make a difference because students from a rural background are more likely to return to the country to work once they graduate.” he said.

On Thursday, Wangaratta Magistrates Court heard the accused and her victim had been in an “on-again, off-again” relationship at the time of the July 2 incident, which saw the victim’s ear partially severed after the accused threw a block of firewood at him around 9.30am.

The woman pleaded guilty to a charge of recklessly cause injury, after officers had initially contended the injury had been serious in nature.

Police prosecutor Sergeant Heath Dosser said a heated argument had turned physical, as the accused pushed the victim from her premises.

She was then said to have picked up a block of firewood from near the door and “lobbed” it, with the projectile colliding with the left side of the victim’s head.

The victim told police he had been left disorientated at the scene, but had left and called emergency services

Police attended the accused’s address later that morning and identified blood and the firewood at the front of the home, however, were unable to locate the accused.

She was later arrested on July 10.

She was interviewed at Wangaratta Police Station, when she told officers she “didn’t know where (the firewood) had landed or what it hit until I heard him yell out”.

The accused told officers her victim had been attempting to stomp on her phone at the time of the incident.

Defending herself in court, the accused told Magistrate Ian Watkins she “(didn’t) really have much to say” after initially admitting she “launched” the firewood.

Mr Watkins said the accused had failed to manage the situation properly, however, did not impose a conviction.

He placed her on a 12 month good behaviour bond, with conditions she continue to comply with recommendations made by The Orange Door.

PHOTO: Chloe Jaenicke

PHOTO: Rural Health Workforce

St Bernard’s avoid power line scare

By BAILEY ZIMMERMANN

ST BERNARD’S Primary School foundation students were greeted with a welcoming, although unexpected, safety message by some of our local heroes on Friday morning.

Fire Rescue Victoria and Police c rews were called at around 8am to the corner of Williams Road and Phillipson Street due to a power line fall across the St Bernard’s Williams Road school crossing.

While AusNet crews were called to fix the issue, FRV and police managed traffic to ensure no interruption was caused during the busy school drop-off time.

Fireman Grant Kidd then made a visit to the foundation class to ensure the school’s youngest and most curious cohort knew the situation was resolved and safe.

Principal Patricia Boak said she was alerted to the power line faults when she arrived at school at 7.30am and was pleased no one was harmed.

“I noticed there were explosions and sparking happening at the power pole across the road,” she said.

“We had sent a push notification to parents prior to reporting the fault not to do their drop offs at Wil-

ON THE SCENE: Local Fire Rescue Victoria and police crews responded to a power line fall near St Bernard’s Primary School Williams Road crossing on Friday morning,

liams Road.

“Everything was made very secure and safe, the police blocked off the road at the corner of Phillipson Street and Williams Road and further down Williams Road, but still enabled parents to exit from school drop offs and turn right.

“Grant also reassured

them later in the day the electrical people may put in a new electrical wire so if they saw it happening again they knew it was people fixing it.”

AusNet were able to restore power to those affected from the fallen power line at around 10.30am that morning.

Detox your Home is Victoria’s free, safe way to dispose of unwanted household and garden chemicals – without harming your health or the environment.

ALL IS SAFE; Fireman Grant Kidd reassuring St Bernard’s Primary School’s foundation class the power line fall across the road was made safe and to be wary of repair crews during the day.

Register today for Sustainability Victoria’s free household chemical drop-off day, supported by Rural City of Wangaratta.

Detox your Home accepts:

Acids and alkalis

Aerosol cans

Ammonia based cleaners

Anti-freeze, coolant

Brake fluid

Car care products and waxes

Cooking oil

Cosmetics, nail polish and remover

Detergents, bleach, disinfectants and drain cleaner

Fertilisers

Fire extinguishers

Floor-care products and waxes

Fuels: petrol, diesel, kerosene, other Glues: water-based and solvents

Hand sanitiser

Herbicides and weed killers

Insect spray, pesticides, rat poison

Oven cleaner

Pool chemicals

Solvents

Thinners, turps and paint stripper

Transmission fluid

Wood preservatives and finishes

And other items found at home with these symbols:

For a full list of chemicals accepted, visit: www.sustainability.vic.gov.au/ accepteditems

To register Scan the QR code, visit sustainability.vic.gov.au/ detoxyourhome or call

enabling safe travel during school drop-offs. PHOTO: Amanda Corbett

RSPCA pound was much-loved by many

THE display of raw emotion by several people in the community was to be seen at last week’s July council meeting.

The contract between the Rural City of Wangaratta and the Albury Animal Care Centre is signed and the decision to send animals from Wangaratta there if pet owners cannot be found within 24 hours cannot be reversed.

But it didn’t stop about eight people having their say at the meeting, mostly letting council know what they thought about the decision to not renew the contract with the RSPCA.

There are different components to the new agreement which residents were concerned about, and council answered multiple questions about the new plan and processes.

Many people have adopted pets through the RSPCA, animals that have become members of local families which have been adored and looked after for years.

The RSPCA did in some way become an institution in Wangaratta and this could be part of the reason why people might feel a sense of loss in the community service.

In terms of people worried about their pets heading up the highway to Albury if lost, council spelled out the process to people with one clear message.

Microchip your pets and make sure your contact details are up to date, so if your pet does come into council’s care, you will be reunited with your beloved pet fairly quickly.

One of the priorities for pet owners is to call council on 5722 0888 if your animal has gone missing, to avoid delays and extra costs associated with the return of your pet.

The Quiz No. 46

1. Mount Logan is the highest mountain in which country of the Americas?

2. Immediately before becoming the Administrator of the Australian Indian Ocean Territories, Barry Haase was the member for which Australian Electoral Division?

3. In which 2002 movie did Parminder Nagra play the role of Jess Bhamra?

4. Maximilian Bircher-Benner is credited with inventing which popular breakfast food?

5. What was the first team to qualify for the final of the 2015 Matador BBQs One-Day Cup?

6. In relation to the environmental group ELF, what does ELF stand for?

7. Lynda Nutter was the lead singer of which band from 1978 until 1984?

8. What are the two colours on the Flag of Qatar?

9. As at 2015, which Australian capital city has the only university named after a woman?

10. In January 2015, who was named Australian of the Year?

11. At which Summer Olympics did Peter Norman win a silver medal for Australia in the 200 metres running event?

12. Who wrote the 1972 novel, The Stepford Wives?

13. In which decade were Tim Tams first sold?

14. Who plays the role of Olivia Benson in the TV series, Law & Order: SVU?

15. Alofi is the capital of which small island nation?

16. What is Sporty Spice’s real name?

17. In what year did Ryan Crowley win the Doig Medal for best and fairest player at the Fremantle Dockers?

18. How many countries share a border with Mali?

19. Who replaced Gough Whitlam as leader of the Federal Labor Party?

20. In order of size, what type of ‘byte’ comes between an exabyte and a yottabyte?

FACEBOOK users this week commented on the closing down of the Wangaratta RSPCA as of this week, after being in operation for almost 20 years.

• Elissa Clark: Thankyou to all the staff and volunteers. We have adopted some fantastic animals from RSPCA that have given us so much joy

• Kim M Pond: This is SO SAD

• Anne Riddell: So sad about this. For over 20 years

I have used the services of the RSPCA shelter on numerous occasions when adopting kittens and cats, relinquishing abandoned kittens, and removing a legally trapped stray cat.

• Melinda Jane: So sad

• Marz Davidson: I adopted my beautiful feline tigger from wang rspca pound and am so dishartened to see it being closed down i also feel for all the poor cats dogs and animals that will now be shipped out of area making

Take care of your pets or they’ll be shipped off

I WOULD like to say thank you to the few people who turned up at Wangaratta council meeting on Tuesday night and to the two people who sent an email.

I have lived in Wangaratta all my life and to think that this town doesn’t care enough about what has happened to the pound is shameful.

I know once council has made this ridiculous and uncaring decision about the pound that they wouldn’t change their minds.

But there should have been more voices for all the animals.

I hope everybody keeps their animals safe and secure so that they are not shipped off to Albury pound or Melbourne.

They will already be stressed without having to be taken miles away with all the shelters and pounds already struggling.

I just hope all these animals will be ok.

Everyone just needs to be responsible owners please.

Maree Parkinson, Wangaratta

Time to beautify your garden, council

AROUND this time last year I send an email to council asking is it possible to brighten up the entrance to the council offices.

I am of the opinion that the entrance garden is drab and not befitting our city.

Again, this year I made the same sort of request and got the same response via phone call that the council gardening budget has all been accounted for and there was no spare money for an extra works.

Councillors and council staff, I am asking council to find some money from some other budgeted item and please uplift the garden.

This may be as simple as throwing a handful of petunia seeds in among what we have now.

Spring is coming.

The garden should in my view be welcoming and brighten the day of all who may venture into the council building, be they customer or staff

Brian Fox, Wangaratta

All new homes going electric from next year

NEW Victorian households will save up to $1000 off their annual energy bills while

it even more impossible for owners to reclaim their beloved pets this really not suitable for anyone involved and council should hang their heads in total shame

• Leanne De La Rue: Hopefully a rescue shelter will take its place instead.

• Rob Bell: Such a poor decision! For the size and population of Wangaratta there needs to be an animal shelter, Albury is too far away for some people and it’ll result in more animals never

making it back home!

Facebook users also commented on a “suspicious” fire that ignited Ramseen Gifts shop on Thursday morning where a woman and dogs were rescued from the building.

• Denise Gay: And a similar shop went up in flames in Wodonga last night.

• Jack Carruthers: The “chop chop” selfcombusted?.

• Briiony Kate: Rebecca Martin wow that’s crazy

Like the Wangaratta Chronicle Facebook page to have your say.

NOTE: Comments as they appear online, without corrections. Our follower total is

14,289

reducing household emissions, as part of the State Government’s landmark decision to phase out gas in new homes.

From January 1, 2024, planning permits for new homes and residential subdivisions will only connect to all electric networks, with houses taking advantage of more efficient, cheaper and cleaner electric appliances.

These changes will apply to all new homes requiring a planning permit, including new public and social housing delivered by Homes Victoria.

Going all-electric can be delivered at no extra cost to the buyer – and will slash around $1000 per year off household energy bills – or up to $2,200 for households that also have solar installed.

Commencing immediately, all new public buildings that haven’t reached design stage will also be all-electric.

This includes new schools, hospitals, police stations and other government-owned buildings.

To ensure homeowners can maximise the benefits of household renewable energy, the government is investing $10 million in a new Residential Electrification Grants program.

Grants will be available to volume home builders, developers and others to provide bulk rebates for solar panels, solar hot water and heat pumps to new home buyers up front.

To make it easier to go all-electric, eligible new home builders, as well as existing homeowners and renters, can access the nation leading Solar Homes program – offering $1400 solar panel rebates and interest free loans of $8800 for household batteries.

All Victorian households and businesses are also eligible for the VEU gas to electric rebates to upgrade heating and cooling and hot water heaters.

The government will work closely with industry including gas appliance manufacturers, the building and construction sector, local government, trade unions and consumer organisations to manage business, workforce and consumer impacts and support the sector in the transition.

Lily D’Ambrosio, Minister for Energy

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

1968

City 12. Ira Levin

1960s 14. Mariska Hargitay 15. Niue

Melanie Chisholm 17. 2012

Seven 19. Bill Hayden 20.

YOU LOOKIN’ AT ME?: Wangaratta Chronicle photographer Kurt Hickling took this photo of a herd of cattle at Cheshunt on Friday. They were enjoying a break of sunshine following 11.4mm of rain in the area overnight.

Action needed to stop thefts

Police urge locals to lock away personal belongings amid theft spike in the region Police urge locals o lock away personal amid hef spike in he regio

A NORTH East police Inspector has reiterated police’s commitment to maintaining public safety in the local area, after an annual survey identified a number of key safety concerns held by local residents.

A recent annual Police Community Survey saw residents within the Wangaratta Police Service Area (which encompasses Wangaratta, Moira and Alpine local gov-

BY RYAN MALCOLM rmalcolm@ nemedia.com.au

ernment areas) identify road safety, safety of possessions and drugs and alcohol as their top three issues to be addressed over the coming year.

The survey asked respondents to select their

top three community safety concerns out of eight options, with 11,000 taking part across the state.

Wangaratta PSA Acting Inspector Joel Hughes said the survey offered a local insight into community sentiment each year.

“The Victoria Police community sentiment survey is important to local police as it helps us to gauge how safe people feel, their ideas

to improve safety, their key safety concerns and how they want to engage with police,” he said.

“Local police were not surprised by these survey results, and we are committed to addressing community safety concerns and keeping all road users safe.

“We would like to thank all the survey participants for their feedback.”

A spike in opportunistic

theft offending was reflected in data recently released by the Crime Statistics Agency for the year to March, with thefts of motor vehicles and thefts from motor vehicles each rising by more than 30 instances on 2022 figures.

Act Insp Hughes said residents needed to do more to deter would-be thieves.

“We would like to take this opportunity to remind people to secure their valuables

by locking their homes and vehicles,” he said.

“Unfortunately, we are continuing to see that many of our thefts from cars are as a result of the cars being left unlocked.”

The same three major safety concerns were also identified in the Wodonga Police Service Area, while safety in public places was also a shared issue among the regions.

Wangaratta Mazda sponsors L2P for another five years

WANGARATTA Mazda has extended its support of the NESAY L2P program, signing on as sponsor for an additional five-year period.

Mazda will be providing a new Mazda Cx3 and free servicing and registration for the five years.

The L2P program relies on this sponsorship for the program to operate and without it would not be able to support local young people complete their 120 hours of drive time.

The program assists learner drivers, who do not have access to a supervising driver or car, to gain the driving experience required

to apply for a probationary licence.

L2P coordinator, Melissa Van Bergen, said there are a range of reasons young people are unable to complete their 120 hours’ drive time and the L2P program makes it possible for them to complete their hours and become competent drivers on the road.

She said the program not only develops good driving skills, helping to make safer drivers, it also increases confidence and independence of the participants.

“Having a licence in rural areas is crucial for access to education and employ-

ment,” she said.

Ms Van Bergen said NESAY is excited to be partnering again with Wangaratta Mazda and have a new L2P vehicle on the road.

“The Mazda sponsorship enables NESAY to support young people who may not otherwise be able to complete their 120 driving hours,“ she said.

“It is a privilege to work with local community minded organisations like Wangaratta Mazda, working towards a shared goal.”

The NESAY L2P program has also been fortunate enough to continue its sponsorship with Wangaratta A1

Tyrepower, which has been providing tyres and wheel alignments since the program began and keeping the L2P car safe on the road.

The home of future you.

GENEROUS SUPPORT: Wangaratta Mazda sales manager Noel Gilbert (left) handed over the Mazda Cx3 keys to L2P coordinator Melissa Van Bergen with Wangaratta Mazda dealer principal, Michael Henderson.

PHOTO: Chloe Jaenicke

SCENIC LANDSCAPE: Wetlands and Waterways features beautiful paintings by Helen Hill (pictured) and it opens at the Art Gallery on Ovens on August 3.

Waterways and wetlands celebrated in upcoming exhibition

AN exhibition in which the two participating artists share their love for nature and the wildlife and flora it supports will be held at the Art Gallery on Ovens in August.

Wetlands and Waterways features the paintings of local artist Helen Hill and her daughter-in-law Yanina (Yanya) Hill; a self-taught watercolour artist from Perth.

Helen said Winton Wetlands is one of the most significant environmental, social and economic renewal projects in the world and its beauty is inspiring throughout the seasons.

“What really appeals to me about the wetland is that it is constantly changing - the

water and vegetation take on different hues with the changing light and weather,” she said.

“The water sits into the land in different shapes and I particularly like the changes with the edge of the banks –some are definite, others sludgy and littered with leaf debris, sticks and parts of dead trees.”

Helen said in her larger

scale acrylic-on-canvas works she has chosen to depict the land around the wetland as lush and green and in parts quite colourful.

Smaller works highlight some of the interesting vegetation found in wetlands and waterways such as the bull rush which forms a great habitat for birds, frogs and other fauna.

Accompanying Helen’s paintings are Yanya’s watercolours, which focus on birds and plants and particularly species unique to Australia, which she has discovered since recently moving here.

Originally from Belarus, Yanya said she strives to capture the colours, shapes and

2 X DOUBLE PASSES (2 TICKETS EACH)

Wangaratta Performing Arts & Convention Centre

Friday 4 August 10.30am

For more information and tickets contact the WPACC on 03 5722 8105 or www.wpacc.com.au

The Seekers were 4 young Australians with a dream and they followed that dream to the top of the pop music world.

The Beggars sing The Seekers follows The Seekers story from the Melbourne cafe scene in 1962 to London the swinging center of the pop universe, to ultimately their 1968 BBC TV special Farewell The Seekers watched by millions.

Enjoy all the hits “I’ll Never Find Another You”, “The Carnival is Over”, “Morningtown Ride” and of course, “Georgie Girl”, alongside The Beggar’s originals and rollicking standards such as “Open Up Them Pearly Gates” and “Sinner Man”. All faithfully re-produced live on stage without backing tracks.

your details and post or deliver to our

Wangaratta Chronicle

The Beggars sing The Seekers competition

37 Rowan Street

Wangaratta VIC 3677

WHAT’S UP WITH THE WEATHER?

By Peter Nelson, Peter Retired CSIRO climatologist

Fourth driest JuneJuly on record

AS the month of July draws to a close many places have experienced a very dry month.

Sydney has recorded only 21mm during July and on top of a very dry June of 17.6mm, this makes it the driest June-July period of 38.6mm since 1943 when 31.8mm fell.

It’s also the fourth driest June-July period in 164 years of records.

The two other drier such periods occurred in 1880 and 1895.

Canberra has recorded it’s warmest July in 84 years of records.

The mean maximum temperature of 14.1 degrees broke the July 2019 record of 13.7 degrees.

Other warm Julys were in 1975, 1993, 1994 and 1999.

The rainfall of only 9.2mm was the driest for July since 5mm in 2019.

The City of Melbourne has had only 10.4mm this month, the driest to date since 1979.

It has been a warmer than normal July.

The mean temperature of 11.7 degrees makes it the warmest July since 2013.

Other warmer Julys were in 1975 and 2005.

Barometric pressure reached a very high value of 1037.4mbs on Tuesday, July 25, the highest in July since 1038mbs in 2013.

This does indicate further warmer than average days into August and apart from a wetter September, the spring is anticipated to be notably warmer and drier than usual in Victoria and extending right up to QLD.

The next summer is looking notably hotter than usual.

It does look certain we will have the hottest summer for 10 years.

2

textures of her subjects and finds watercolours allow her to show each delicate feature of feather, beak and foliage.

“My art celebrates nature’s strength and reminds us to protect native animals,” she said.

“I believe in the interconnectedness of all living beings and hope to inspire environmental awareness through my work.”

Wetlands and Waterways by Helen Hill and Yanina Hill will run from August 3 to 14 at the Art Gallery on Ovens.

An official opening will be held on Saturday, August 5 at 1pm with all welcome to attend.

X DOUBLE PASSES (2 TICKETS EACH)

Wangaratta Performing Arts & Convention Centre

Saturday 5 August 7:30pm

For more information and tickets contact the WPACC on 03 5722 8105 or www.wpacc.com.au

COIL is one of those rare productions: gobsmackingly clever in its execution whilst being funny, warm hearted and deeply resonant.

Blurring the boundaries of theatre and cinema, this innovative new work draws on our collective memories to pay tribute to the glory days of the video store and the communities grapple with goodbyes to move on.

Creating new work at the very edge of video technology and live performance, re:group mash theatre and moviemaking together to create ‘live cinema’. Inspired by the highs and lows of pop culture, re:group aim to turn typically comfortable and passive viewing experiences into something immersive, irreverent, and inherently live.

Full Name:

Address:

Email Address: Entries Close: 5pm August 1

your details and post or deliver to our

Wangaratta Chronicle COIL competition

37 Rowan Street Wangaratta VIC 3677

Full Name: Address:

Email Address:

PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

RUNOFF: Cheshunt had 11.4mm of rain until 9am Friday, making for some damp paddocks in the area.

PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

THE ACROSS

Centre Against Violence looks to strengthen board

WANGARATTA-based Centre Against Violence (CAV) has invited individuals with skills, knowledge, creativity, and inspiration to be a part of the CAV board. With commitments to diversity and inclusivity, CAV is looking for values of diverse perspectives, backgrounds, and lived experiences on its board.

Chief executive officer of CAV, Jaime Chubb, said the organisation is specifically seeking professionals with experience in finance, information technology, previous board governance, risk and compliance.

“This exceptional opportunity invites individuals with professional and personal expertise to seize the chance

to contribute their skills for a worthy cause,” she said.

“Our vision is to see a society where adults, young people and children live free from family violence, sexual violence, sexual assault and all other forms of interpersonal violence.”

CAV is a government funded Family Violence and Sexual Assault service

located in Wangaratta, Wodonga and Benalla, providing services across the Ovens Murray region.

Chair of the board of CAV, Corina Modderman, said there have been significant changes to more inclusive community work since her time with the organisation.

“The Centre Against Violence is now visible, we are

known in the community, we are no longer hidden away but are proud, loud, and clear; everyone deserves to be safe,” she said.

“Prevention and early intervention are now part of our vision amongst many other areas of service delivery.”

To find out more information and access the online

application forms visit the CAV website: www.centreagainstviolence.org.au. Applicants who demonstrate the necessary skills will be invited to participate in an informal interview. For those who may not be ready for a full commitment, there is still an opportunity to get involved as an association member.

‘Extravaganza’ at Benalla gallery

WETLANDS are often a source of inspiration for artists and other creative types – and this year it seems more so than ever.

Winton Wetlands in particular will be the focus for several important art events in the second half of this year.

The first of these events, Always and Altered, will run at the Benalla Art Gallery from August 4 to September 17, featuring the work of artists involved in an art residency at Dookie campus of the University of Melbourne.

Other artists are also featured, along with works from the Benalla Art Gallery collection, in an exhibition which reflects on human interactions with and impacts

upon the land.

The exhibition includes historic and recent photographs of Winton Wetlands, a site that has experienced large scale changes over generations, moving from natural wetland to agricultural use, to artificial lake and recreational venue, and ultimately a return to more natural wetland conditions, in a long-term restoration project still in its early stages.

An important element of the Winton Wetlands project is the encouragement of a return to country by traditional custodians, the Yorta Yorta people, and this aspect will feature strongly in the exhibition.

The Always and Altered

exhibition showcases outstanding work by talented artists and photographers as well as providing insight into the shaping and reshaping of landscapes and how these impact on our relationships with the land.

More information is available from Benalla Art Gallery: www.benallaartgallery. vic.gov.au.

A second art exhibition inspired by the Winton Wetlands restoration project is getting under way at Bainz Gallery, at Wangaratta Library, on August 5, and will run until August 28. This exhibition, called Palimpsest, features the work of local artists Maggie Hollins, Victoria Cooper and Doug Spowart.

Their works hint at the multiple layers of activity and relationships that are imposed upon the landscape, producing a rich history of natural and human interaction and many levels of meaning.

Through walking, contemplation and reflection around Winton Wetlands, the artists involved in Palimpsest are seeking to contribute to dialogue about the different yet overlapping stories of the wetlands.

There will be a Meet the Artists session at Bainz Gallery on Saturday, August 12 from 1–3pm.

More information and samples from this exhibition can be found on Instagram: instagram.com/wetlands.

palimpsest. Or email: greatdivide@a1.com.au.

A further art exhibition about to get underway, called Wetlands and Waterways, features paintings and watercolours created at Winton Wetlands by local artists Helen and Yanina Hill.

It runs from August 3-14 at Art Gallery on Ovens in Wangaratta. More information from www.artgalleryonovens.com.

Last but not least, Winton Wetlands – with great excitement - will have its very first Artist in Residence late in the year, courtesy of Benalla Art Gallery and watercolour artist Mark Dober.

This artist is known for producing large-scale works which immerse viewers in

the landscape - in this case the landscape of Winton Wetlands.

Through his work, Mark Dober will “convey both the beauty of the Wetlands even where so many dead trees are present and the beauty inherent in the watercolour medium”.

The work resulting from Mark Dober’s residency at the wetlands during November is expected to be on show at Benalla Art Gallery from November 24 to February 18. More information: https://benallaartgallery.com. au/mark-dober-wetlands/.

All in all, lovers of art and lovers of Winton Wetlands will have a great deal to enjoy and reflect on together in the second half of 2023.

WETLANDS ON DISPLAY: A second art exhibition inspired by the Winton Wetlands restoration project is getting under way at Bainz Gallery, at Wangaratta Library, on August 5, and will run until August 28. This exhibition, called Palimpsest, features the work of local artists Maggie Hollins, Victoria Cooper and Doug Spowart.

Local people, local places

...immerse yourself in the region

Wang Officeworks help raise almost $90k for children’s hospital

OFFICEWORKS Wangaratta has helped raise $89,882 towards the Royal Children’s Hospital (RCH) Foundation thanks to the generosity of the community during the Make a Difference Appeal.

Throughout June, the Officeworks Make a Difference Appeal encouraged customers to make a contribution at the checkout in-store or online with funds going directly to a local community organisation chosen by store teams.

Officeworks Wangaratta chose to raise funds for the RCH Foundation, to support the care, treatment, research and learning that will improve the lives of young people and their families. With the support of Officeworks customers and its team members across the country, the Make a Difference Appeal raised more

than $950,000 to directly help the RCH Foundation and 14 other local community organisations to support children to learn, create and connect for a more sustainable future.

Officeworks Wangaratta store business manager, Rhi Bradfield, said the team were honoured to support the RCH Foundation, helping provide resources and support to their vital work.

“We’re incredibly proud of how our local community and store team members came together to support the RCH Foundation and the Make a Difference Appeal,” she said.

“Thank you to all of our customers who donated to this year’s Make a Difference Appeal and for supporting our local community.”

RCH Foundation chief executive officer, Sue Hunt,

said the foundation was incredibly grateful for the continued support of Officeworks through their Make a Difference Appeal.

“The funds raised from the Make a Difference Appeal will be directed towards two projects at the RCH: the Education Institute and the Wadja Aboriginal Family Place,” she said.

“The generosity of Officeworks in supporting the RCH Education Institute and the Wadja Aboriginal Family Place will have a significant impact on the lives of some of the hospital’s sickest and most vulnerable children.”

To date, more than $5.2 million has been raised through the annual Make a Difference Appeal since 2018.

To find out more, visit www.officeworks.com.au/ makeadifference.

Murray-Darling Basin Plan to be extended

By SHANE DOUTHIE

FEDERAL Minister for the Environment and Water

Tanya Plibersek has been advised by the Murray–Darling Basin Authority that full implementation of the Basin Plan will not be possible by June 30, 2024.

Sir Angus Houston, AK, AFC (Ret’d), chair Murray–Darling Basin Authority, said considering the current progress towards legislative priorities for water recovery, the progress of projects for the Sustainable Diversion Limit Adjustment Mechanism (SDLAM), water resource plans and Northern-Basin initiatives, it was the authority’s view that the Basin Plan will not achieve its intended outcomes by the due date.

“While much has been achieved in the decade of Basin Plan implementation, the authority remains deeply concerned about key aspects of the plan’s delivery,” he said.

“There will be a shortfall of water for the environment as set in the Basin Plan.

“With 16 key SDLAM projects unlikely to be operable by June 30 2024, the authority estimates a shortfall in water recovery of between 190 and 315 gigalitres.

“Very little progress has been made in achieving the 450 GL/y efficiency target, and this water will not be recovered by June 30 2024 as required under current settings.”

Ms Plibersek said water recovery stalled over the past decade despite billions of dollars being funnelled to the New South Wales, Victorian and South Australian governments to complete these projects on time.

“Let me be clear, the Albanese government is committed to delivering the Murray-Darling Basin Plan in full, which includes the extra 450GL of water for the environment,” Ms Plibersek said.

“I’ve said that from day one, and I won’t budge .... the independent advice tells us we have to extend the time frames. That’s the reality of what we inherited.”

Sir Angus said only five of 20 water resource plans in New South Wales (NSW) have been accredited and these plans are more than four years behind schedule.

“While these numbers help track our progress towards implementation, the Basin Plan is about much more,” he said.

“It is about delivering outcomes that provide healthy rivers, floodplains and ecosystems in ways that take into account socio-economic considerations.

“Ten years ago the Australian Government, and the governments of NSW, Victoria, Queensland, South Australia and the ACT, made a world-leading commitment to a healthy future for the Basin.

“Implementation of the Basin Plan is at a critical juncture. It is important that the challenges inhibiting the full delivery of the Basin Plan are quickly

Illuminating local leadership contribution from Alpine Valleys’ course alumni

ALPINE Valleys Community Leadership (AVCL) has launched an Alumni Impact Report, drawing on the influence of the annual program through an alumni survey.

According to the AVCL, the report, available on AVCL’s website, distils high-level metrics that quantify the leadership contributions of alumni in both community and workplace settings.

AVCL board chair, Judy Charlton, said the report found the AVCL alumni contribute an average of 10 hours per week toward volunteerism and community-focused work, the majority of which is on an unpaid basis.

addressed to provide a clear pathway forward.”

He said with a changing climate, implementing the Basin Plan remains central to giving our rivers and the communities that depend on them the best chance of a healthy future, our best chance to deliver rivers, for generations.

Victorian Shadow Minister for Water, Tim McCurdy, said that Minister Plibersek must provide funding guarantees in the coming weeks.

“The Federal Government has admitted the red, green, and cultural heritage tape has driven up the cost and blown out the time to negotiate any short-term outcomes,” Mr McCurdy said.

“We know that buybacks are unviable, the Federal Government must give Victorian farmers the security they need by providing the necessary funding for SDLAM projects.”

“The Victorian Liberal and Nationals have been calling for these measures for a long time, and it is time for the Federal Government to support our farmers and irrigators.”

“Using the state of volunteering hourly labour value, on average, our alumni contribute labour worth over $8 million to the community annually,” she said.

“It’s remarkable, and a little sobering, to understand the level of time and effort that uplifts communities across the North East and Border regions.”

The annual program was first delivered in 1999 and led by its inaugural chair and now patron, John Brown.

By the close of 2023, the program will have produced more than 500 alumni.

The Alumni Impact Report explores stories of change for 10 of the alumni, which provide insight into their experience of the program and how it shaped their leadership journey.

Former Rural City of Wangaratta Mayor Irene Grant featured as a case

study in the report said one of the things she learned was there was no template for leadership.

“You could be someone working in a school canteen and you could be a leader in that sphere as much as anyone else who was going to shape the future of the community,” she said.

Another case study participant, Vidura “Del” Delpitiya, said when he, his wife and children arrived in Corryong from Sri Lanka for his new job as a dairy farmhand it was like starting life again, which inspired him to undertake the program in 2015.

“The people of Corryong, and the broader dairy farming community, embraced the family wholeheartedly,” he said

“From the footy club to the bus driver, the school principal to our green grocer and the dairy community too. - hats off to that community for embracing us.”

Ms Charlton said she

welcomed the outcomes detailed in the report.

“Up until this report, the impact of our alumni had largely been anecdotal. The formalisation and reporting of alumni contributions are both insightful and valuable,” she said.

“It is another driving force behind our commitment to ensure the continuity of this vital community leadership development program in our region.”

AVCL received significant funding for the Annual Program from the State Government, which will cease at the end of 2023.

AVCL has been preparing for this possibility, including recently attaining endorsement as a Deductible Gift Recipient (DGR) and Public Benevolent Institution (PBI).

AVCL is now consulting with key stakeholders to develop a strategy for continuing a community leadership program, so this service and its impact are not lost to the region.

MAKING A DIFFERENCE: Officeworks Wangaratta staff members (from left) Nicholas Gephart, Rosemary Jarrott, Simone Kemp and Zac Horton were proud to raise almost $90,000 for the Royal Children’s Hospital Foundation over their Make a Difference Appeal.

DILLY-DALLYING REVEALED: Sir Angus Houston hands the MDBA report to Minister for the Environment and Water Tanya Plibersek last week.

PROUD ALUMNI: AVCLP alumni Elise Hill and Vidua “Del” Delpitiya expressed the influence of the Annual Program in the AVCL Impact report with AVCL executive officer, Jacqui Bramwell.

is a machine especially one programmable by a computer capable of carrying out a complex series of actions automatically. A robot can be guided by an external control device, or the control may be embedded within.

Why did the robot fail his exam? He was a bit rusty.

ACROSS

1 When one turns aside, one does what (6)

8 Which gland secretes important digestive fluid (8)

9 That which has a harsh, disagreeable taste is called what (6)

10 Which city was formerly Constantinople (8)

11 What is something to be learnt or studied (6)

13 Name another term for wolfram (8)

16 To be deeply regretted, is to be what (8)

19 What is a person from whom a place takes its name (6)

22 Which key starts a car (8)

24 To make beloved, is to do what (6)

25 What are military commanders known as (8)

26 When one walks with a vain, pompous bearing, one does what (6)

DOWN

2 What is a sound uttered through the mouth of a human being (5)

3 What are council charges (5)

4 Name a full-speed runner (8)

5 What is a single thing (4)

6 What are enclosures for sports contests (6)

7 Name a renowned European river (6)

12 Which pit, well, or the like, collects liquid (4)

14 Name an alternative term for nakedness (8)

15 What is larger than a village, but smaller than a city (4)

17 What, in golf, are scores two below par (6)

18 To linger idly, is to do what (6)

E-QUATIONS

Letters A to Z have a number value. Some are shown in the right-hand cells. Create remaining values using clues in centre cells.

20 To be of greater age is to be what (5)

21 Name a singlecelled fungus (5)

GENERAL KNOWLEDGE CROSSWORD QUICK THINK

23 Baghdad is the capital of which Asian republic (4)

Find the following words in the grid. They may be read in any direction, even diagonally. Some letters are used more than once.

WHICH WORDS

1

BIYWORD

Build it yourself using the clues and each of the twenty-four letters once only to form ten words: five across and five down. A key word (bold clue) builds on the letter set in the grid.

CLUES:

Affirmative vote (3)

Bridle mouthpiece (3)

Discard (5)

Giant (5)

Indefinitely long period (3)

Italian bowls (5)

Of yoga (5)

Solo musical performance (7)

Unrefined iron (3,4)

Upper limit

SOLUTIONS SUDOKU

Solve the crossword. Each answer has four letters.

Dairy industry collaborates to halve food waste

THE Australian dairy industry has again taken the lead on sustainability in agriculture by publishing a sector-wide action plan to reduce food waste.

Dairy is the first Australian agricultural sector to take this significant step, setting a goal to halve food waste by 2030.

Dairy Australia managing director, Dr David Nation, said food waste from the dairy supply chain has previously been identified as one of the six highest Australian food waste sources.

The Dairy Sector Food Waste Action Plan was developed by Dairy Australia in collaboration with the Australian Dairy Products Federation and Stop Food Waste Australia, and with input from dairy businesses across the country.

Janine Waller, executive director of the Australian Dairy Products Federation, said that sustainability and good practices are important for dairy farms, dairy manufacturers, and for the future of the planet.

“Together, we have identified 10 key actions to reduce waste – from investing in R&D and technical solutions, to effective inventory management

systems to monitor and report on waste, partnering with food rescue organisations, promoting sustainable packaging solutions, and educating consumers through product labelling and storage advice,” she said.

Chief operating officer Mark Barthel at Stop Food Waste Australia, said that food waste is a $36 billion challenge in Australia and if successfully implemented the initiatives in this plan will deliver significant economic, social, and environmental benefits.

“Reducing dairy food waste across the supply chain can save millions of dollars annually,” he said.

“Studies show that just a one per cent reduction in food waste could result in savings of up to $10 million for dairy manufacturers, which would increase their ability to remain competitive in local and international markets.

“Effectively preventing and managing dairy food waste can reduce associated greenhouse gas emissions by up to 20 per cent, while also conserving water and energy and significantly reducing ecological footprint.”

The Dairy Sector Food

Waste Action Plan aligns with the goal of the Australian government and Australian Dairy Industry Council to halve food waste by 2030.

The 10 key actions to reduce waste are:

• Monitor dairy food waste across the supply chain.

• Implement practices that prevent process waste.

• Investigate technology solutions that turn processing waste and packaged goods into animal feed.

• Increase options for more DAF sludge to be composted.

• Increase awareness for more edible dairy food to go to food rescue sector

• Assess commercial feasibility of diverting excess whey to third-party processors.

• Promote value if improving labelling and storage advice of dairy food products.

• Investigate technology platforms that can help reduce dairy waste.

• Behaviour change programs to support households minimise dairy food waste.

• Investigate technology platforms that can help reduce dairy food waste.

Strong demand helps King Valley vignerons ride out storms

DEMAND for wine grape varieties which are specialties of the King Valley is helping local wine businesses ride out the vagaries of the weather and rising input costs.

It follows the release of the National Vintage Report 2023 by Wine Australia, which revealed that a challenging season delivered the smallest vintage in a generation.

While nationally, the total crush of grapes was down 24 per cent (and value down 19 per cent), Victoria’s crush volume was hardest hit, down 40 per cent.

Wines of the King Valley president Dean Cleave-Smith said King Valley’s total crush was down 15,251 tonnes (or 21 per cent), with red down 2,933 tonnes (33 per cent) and white 12,319 tonnes (down 17 per cent).

Prosecco and Pinot Grigio made up 75 per cent of all white varieties, while Sangiovese and Pinot Noir made up 61 per cent of all red varieties.

Mr Cleave-Smith said season 2023 was indeed a difficult one for growers.

“We had significant spring rainfall and cooler early summer temperatures, leading to reduced berry set early in the season and increased disease pressure,” he said.

“There were also significantly increased input costs (including fuel, labour, trac-

HARVEST REPORT: While King Valley’s total crush was down by 21 per cent this year, there has been a year on year increase in demand for its grapes, keeping value up.

tor hours, vineyard sprays and so on), so not only were yields down, but the costs associated with the resulting crop were significantly higher.

“Whilst 2023 was a tough season due to weather, we are in a strong position when it comes to planted grape varieties, varietal demand and in turn, pricing.”

An oversupply of red grape varieties grown in drier, inland areas such as South Australia’s Riverland, caused largely by the loss of the China market, has seen prices there plummet, but the King

Valley remains resilient to those pressures, though the rising cost of doing business is hurting.

“The King Valley has seen year on year increases in demand for grapes and in turn, this has resulted in increasing per ton value of crops,” said Mr Cleave-Smith.

“Ultimately the King Valley is made up of small to medium sized family-owned businesses and like many, our community growers and producers are feeling the pressure of higher interest rates and increased costs of goods and services.”

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TOYOTA Prado 1999 (TRM 702), 356,630km, RWC. 7 seater, serviced regularly, mainly highway use. Reg. until October 28, 2023. $9,000 ONO. Ph 5727 3780 or 0408 314 179.

OLD coins, notes, watches and jewellery. Including two dollar coloured coins. Phone 0478 162 069.

CEDAR chest of drawers. Two long, two small drawers. Lovely handles. Excellent condition. Will deliver locally. $250. Ph. 0402 403 887.

FOR SALE

$50 OR UNDER

MULTIPLE curtain quantities. Off white continuous. Choose what you need up to $50. 0402 403 887.

SPORT

WINNERS AND LOSERS

OVENS AND KING SENIORS LADDER

SCOREBOARD RESERVES RESULTS

NORTH

GOALS: NORTH WANGARATTA: Kye Williams 1. BONNIE DOON: Luke Murray 10, Will Foster 4, Al Bennett 3, Luke James 2, Campbell Smedley 2, James Fox 1, Matthew Hedin 1. BEST: NORTH WANGARATTA: Tyler Schulze, Adam Enever, Jay Barker, David Killen, Kyle Mcquade, Jamie Berry. BONNIE DOON: Luke Murray, Campbell Smedley, Matthew Hedin, Joel Sanford, Luke Berriman, Guy Murray.

BRIGHT

WHOROULY 2.0 3.1 3.1 3.1.19

GOALS: BRIGHT: Guy Campbell 7, Cooper Thomason 4, Jack Dalbosco 2, Samuel Dalbosco 2, Riley Bacon 1, Dylan Bursill 1, Alexander Dalbosco 1, Nick Howell 1, Kieren Jamieson

1, Chad Martin 1, Max Rampling 1. WHOROULY: Simon Chalmers 2, Jake Riley 1. BEST: BRIGHT: Michael Elliott, Guy Campbell, Joe Gray, Samuel Dalbosco, Max Rampling, Alexander Dalbosco. WHOROULY: Riley Calvene, Andrew Newton, William Allen, Paul Glanville, Cameron Wood, Lachlan Moore.

MOYHU

NETBALL SCORES

A GRADE:

King Valley 35 def by Greta 51,Nth Wangaratta 32 def by Bonnie Doon 53, Bright 20 def Whorouly 69, Moyhu 43 def by Tarrawingee 56, Milawa 80 def Benalla All Blacks 37

B GRADE:

King Valley 45 drew with Greta 45, Nth Wangaratta 38 def by Bonnie Doon 57, Bright 41 def Whorouly 39, Moyhu 43 def Tarrawingee 37, Milawa 57 def Benalla All Blacks 50

B RESERVE:

King Valley 28 def by Greta 37, Nth Wangaratta 12 def by Bonnie Doon 102, Bright 45 drew with Whorouly 45, Moyhu 49 def Tarrawingee 38, Milawa 50 def Benalla All Blacks 36

C GRADE:

King Valley 17 def by Greta 45, Nth Wangaratta 41 def by Bonnie Doon 56, Bright 28 def Whorouly 19, Moyhu 27 drew with Tarrawingee 27, Milawa 29 def by Benalla All Blacks 39

15 & UNDER:

King Valley 17 def by Greta 27, Nth Wangaratta 25 def by Bonnie Doon 34, Bright 21 def by Whorouly 23, Moyhu 26 def Tarrawingee 9, Milawa 16 def by Benalla All Blacks 21

ROUND 18

SATURDAY,AUGUST 5

GOORAMBAT vs MILAWA

KING VALLEY vs NNIE DOON

WHOROULY vs MOYHU

GRETA vs TARRAWINGEE

BENALLA ALL BLACKS vs NORTH WANGARATTA

BRIGHT - BYE

4.7 9.11 14.15 23.18.156

TARRAWINGEE 2.2 3.4 3.5 4.6.30

GOALS: MOYHU: Jared Lea 6, Charlie West 3, Harrison Bell 2, Harrison Grant 2, Nick Stewart 2, Bailey Zimmermann 2, Caleb Bell 1, Dylan Carmody 1, Liam Cook 1, Fraser Landgren 1, Jett Roberts 1, Darby West 1. TARRAWINGEE: Danyon Hearne 1, Sam Piper 1, Ethan Ryan 1, William Styles 1. BEST: MOYHU: Harrison Grant, Matthew Thrum, Caleb Bell, Jared Lea, Bailey Zimmermann, Lukas Jakobsson. TARRAWINGEE: Sam Piper, Will Creed, Brandon Igri, Ryley Benton, Joel Cain, Thomas Salmon.

KING VALLEY 0.2 3.4 4.5 5.8.38

GRETA 6.2 7.5 13.7 19.8.122

GOALS: KING VALLEY: Ryan Wait 2, Charlie Arthur 1, Charlie Davies 1, Beau Wheeler 1.

GRETA: Frazer Judd 6, Lachie Kennett 4, Daniel Cassidy 2, James McClounan 2, Nicholas

Pell 2, Tyler Arrowsmith 1, Joshua Bell 1, Brenton Newbold 1. BEST: KING VALLEY: Beau Wheeler, Bradley Collihole, Charlie Davies, Tom Davies, Ryan Wait, Tim Roman GRETA: Lachie Kennett, Zac Northey, Tom Fursdon, James McClounan, Tom Baker, Frazer Judd.

MILAWA 6.4 12.5 21.9 27.13.175

BENALLA ALL BLACKS 1.0 2.0 2.0 2.3.15

GOALS: MILAWA: Sebastian De Napoli 13, Steven Williamson 6, Harry Allan 4, Luke Toohey

2, Michael Walker 1, Jarryd Wallace 2. BENALLA ALL BLACKS: Cody Crawford 1, Tom Levy 1.

BEST: MILAWA: Sebastian De Napoli, Xavier Ham, Harry Allan, Steven Williamson, Aiden Bihun, Daniel Bihun. BENALLA ALL BLACKS: Nicholas Spencer, Alec Crawford, Kyle Collisson, Chelton Orchard, Dylan Norman, Jordan Dux.

North Wangaratta vs Bonnie Doon - ABANDONED

Bright ....................31.9.195

Whorouly ....................0.3.3

BEST: BRIGHT: Jed Pryor, Adam Whelann, Brodie Brain, Jet Walton, Joseph Crawley, Aidan Parmesan. WHOROULY: Marc Costenaro, Adam Pascoe, Peter Sang, Nathan De Vries, Ryan Harris.

Moyhu..................21.16.142

Tarrawingee ..............6.7.43

MOYHU: Leroy Dowling, Noah Crispin, Hayden Currie, Ryan Hargreaves, Nikolas McAsey, Harry Verdon. TARRAWINGEE: Charlie Eames, Declan Espejo, Thomas Deans, Harry Gorman.

King Valley ..................0.1.1 Greta ...................22.15.147

KING VALLEY: Joel Burchall, Angus Thorne, Stuart Smith, Harry White, Aaron Hammond, Josh Brown. GRETA: Luke Arrowsmith, Matthew Naish, Campbell McClounan, Damiun Cassidy, Matt Gathercole, Trent Whitecross.

Milawa ......................3.3.21

Benalla All Blacks .....10.7.67

MILAWA: Michael Box, John Conroy, Brenton Gray, Tim Leslie, Zachary Wallace, Hamish Falla. BENALLA ALL

BLACKS: Karl Mullins, Eoin Fitzgerald, John Hughes, Ayden Amos, Joshua Kotvas, Regan Sheehan

HEAD OVER THE BALL: Sam Piazza and Bright’s Michael Elliott both struggle for the ball.

PHOTO: Nathan de Vries

CLANGER: Whorouly’s Lachy Moore holds on to the mark at full stretch.

PHOTO: Nathan de Vries

HANG TIME: Jarryd Wallace gets takes a chest mark after a massive leap.

PHOTO: Marc Bongers

CAN’T STOP: Benalla’s Nich Spencer tries to get the handball out after being tackled by Xavier Ham.

PHOTO: Marc Bongers

MATCH REVIEWS

Massive margins across the O&K

By NATHAN DE VRIES

IT was a weekend for the forwards of the Ovens and King league, with every senior football match blowing out to an extensive margin.

In the one-sided round, the average winning difference was more than 131 points across the five senior matches played on Saturday.

At Bright, the Mountain Men were in control all day, taking the win comfortably 22.13 (145) to Whorouly’s 3.1 (19), with a seven goal to two opening stanza setting the tone for the day.

From a position of strength and a seven goal margin at the half, Bright tore out of the blocks through the third quarter, nailing goal after goal which left the Lions chasing the ball all day.

Bright’s Cooper Thomason extended his lead in the senior goalkicking tally with four for the day, but it was Guy Campbell making the most up forward, ending with a bag of seven majors.

Whorouly’s midfielders and backs worked hard all day, with Riley Calvene, Paul Glanville and Will Allen among the best on ground for the Lions.

Moyhu also picked up a percentage boosting win in their clash with Tarrawingee at home.

The Hoppers pushed a two goal margin at quarter time out past seven by half-time, with Jared Lea finding paddocks of space in the forward 50.

Tarrawingee tried to fire back but couldn’t convert on their opportunities, as Moyhu continued their dominant display across the ground.

Lea would finish with six goals, with 11 other Hoppers getting on the scoreboard, while Sam Piper, Will Creed and Brandon Igri were impressive for the Bulldogs.

Greta showed why they’re considered one of the flag favourites with a controlled win over King Valley at Whitfield, downing the Roos 19.8 (122) to 5.8 (38).

While they let the Blues out to a six goal lead through the first term, King Valley fought back hard and actually outscored their opponent in the second quarter, booting three goals to one to pare the margin back slightly going into the half.

However, the class of Greta’s midfield shone through, as they fed their forwards well and kicked straight, with a six goal to one quarter to put the Roos out of the contest.

Lachie Kennett, Zac Northey and James McClounan were among the best for the Blues, while Frazer Judd ended with six goals.

Veteran defender Beau Wheeler impressed for the Roos, while Brad Collihole and Ryan Wait also had terrific games.

Milawa obliterated Benalla All Blacks in their encounter at the Milawa Recreation Reserve, home 27.13 (175) to the Panthers’ 2.3 (15).

Demon Seb De Napoli was prominent up forward, ending the match with 13 majors, while Steve Williamson picked up half a dozen for himself.

With the margin almost to 11 goals by half-time, the Panthers kept fighting but could not find a response to Milawa’s sharp skills and impressive spread.

■ From back page

“You don’t want to be wasting opportunities, you’re probably fortunate you can get away with that if you’ve got the game in hand. If you’re in a contest against one of the top sides and there’re 20 shots generated, you’d definitely try to make the most count as you can.

“We’ll do as we normally do and do our goalkicking sessions at training, and hopefully that gets done and improves.”

The senior Bombers sit on top of the ladder with three rounds remaining, 82.06 percentage points ahead of Greta.

The reserve match between the Bombers and Hawks was abandoned in the second quarter after Bonnie Doon’s Fraser Cameron suffered a severe injury to his lower leg.

With a history of knee issues and reconstructions, Cameron was run down in a regulation tackle as he went to kick, and unfortunately broke his tibia, fibula and dislocated his ankle.

“It was a horrible accident, it was really ugly,” Murray said.

“He did his knee three years ago, came back after 18 months and did it again, then came back a couple of weeks ago - he had a couple of games off and was just resuming gently.

“You really feel for the guy, he went into surgery (Sunday) morning so hopefully he can get himself right.”

HE’S ON YOU: Benalla’s Brendan Moffat prepares to take down Aiden Bihun

SAFE HANDS: Steve Williamson goes to take the mark under fierce pressure from Dylan Norman.

RUNNING PASS: Luke Toohey gets his hands too it before he’s run down by Benalla’s Nich Spencer in the Demons’ 160 point win. PHOTOS: Marc Bongers

HEAD TO HEAD: Bomber Al Bennett taps the ball along under pressure from North Wangaratta’s Matt Prestianni. PHOTOS: Marc Bongers

TARGETED: Sean Campitelli gets the kick off before he’s closed by Tyler Nanson.

POWERHOUSE: Campbell Smedley and the Bonnie Doon seniors flexed their muscles over North Wangaratta on Saturday.

Luke Murray bags 10, Bonnie Doon flex their forward muscles to smash Hawks by 160 points

George earning huge praise from ‘Roos coaches

By WILLSON MACK

DESPITE only starting full training in June, Brayden George is already receiving huge praise.

The former Wangaratta Rover and Murray Bushranger was selected with pick 26 in last year’s draft which was a huge effort considering he missed half the season after rupturing his ACL.

Originally touted as a potential top 10 pick, George slid down to the second round where the ‘Roos snuck in.

The ACL injury ruled him out of this year’s AFL season but the youngster is well on his way to recovery having joined main training over the past four weeks.

North Melbourne interim coach Brett Ratten gave George massive praise when he was talking to NMFC Media in a member Q&A.

“He could be the most talented out of this year’s crop,” Ratten said.

“That’s a big call because (Harry) Sheezel is playing so well and (George) Wardlaw we know is very, very talented, but Brayden has got some real

strong AFL attributes.

“Beautiful kick, long, strong, good size, powerful, (he) goes (and) wins his own footy.

“To think what he could do next year, and he hasn’t even played, we’re just virtually getting a top 10 pick for nothing.”

George was a standout for the Bushrangers in his eight games last year, booting 18 majors as a medium-sized (187cm) forward before injury struck.

The 19-year-old also played two senior games for Rovers in 2021 where his talent was on show as a 17-year-old, kicking seven goals from just two games, while he also featured in the best players on both occasions.

North Melbourne’s GM of Football Todd Viney believes George will give plenty of support to star key forward Nick Larkey next season.

“He’s not tall but as a junior with a really successful junior career, he played as that goal-kicking, big-bodied forward,” he said.

“So we’re looking forward to seeing him get a run next year and we might be a little bit different.”

Ledger shines at GC half marathon

JOSH Ledger made his mark at one of Australia’s premier road races earlier in the month.

Competing in the Gold Coast half marathon Ledger, 17, was the fastest to finish the gruelling 21.1km of his 15-17 year old male division.

A record 10,335 entrants from across the world competed in the half marathon on July 1, one of only two Australian long distance running events to hold World Record Athletics status.

Ledger ran a six min-

BY BAILEY ZIMMERMANN bzimmermann@ nemedia.com.au

ute personal best time of 1:16:46, at a blistering average pace of 3:38/km and smashing his time from last year’s Gold Coast half marathon by 11 minutes.

The time placed him 166th overall and first in his division, quicker than the next best by just over a minute.

Ledger said it was an extreme feeling of relief when he found out he had run

the quickest time of his age group, after falling just under a minute short of the win last year.

“It was very unexpected, I set my mind to win it when I came second last year so it was my goal for the last 12 months,” he said.

Ledger said the major difference to his personal best performance in Gold Coast was an addition of a coach for the first time in his early running career, local Brendan Norden.

“My training this year was a lot more consistent and more proper, having a coach

for the last three or four months has seen a lot of progression,” he said.

“It helped with what to do especially in the weeks leading up to the race with tapering.”

While only 17 years old, Ledger has become an experienced campaigner in the half marathon, competing in six races including at the Melbourne Marathon, locally in Wangaratta and at Gold Coast twice.

When training for a race of the 21km distance, Ledger went through three to four months of preparation for

the Gold Coast event, keeping a consistent schedule of three speed sessions per week and Parkrun every Saturday while continually building mileage into the legs.

Ledger said he found his love for running through competing in numerous sprint distance triathlons across the summer.

“I do enjoy running the longer distance, previously I’ve struggled with the lower end speed in the 5km and 1500m races but I enjoy getting into a good rhythm and running,” he said.

The second year apprentice electrician at B&L North Eastern Electrical said taking on the full marathon won’t be in his short-term plans, preferring the 21km distance.

After some weeks rest Ledger has started back into his running, where he is eyeing a new challenge of taking on the 800m, 1500m and 5km distances in the near future.

“It’s different training, a lot more high intensity work for the 5km obviously but still stick to the three speed sessions,” he said.

RUNNING THE COAST: Josh Ledger was one of 10s of thousands of runners at the Gold Coast Marathon on July 1, where he flew to finish first in the 15-17 male half marathon division.

NUMBER ONE: Josh Ledger returned from the Gold Coast as the fastest of the male 15-17 division half marathon runners earlier in the month, running a personal best 1:16:46. PHOTO: Bailey Zimmermann

IMPRESSING: Brayden George is impressing his North Melbourne coaches on the track se he recovers from an ACL injury.

PHOTO: NMFC Media

BONNIE Doon firmed as flag contenders with a comprehensive 23.29 (167) to 1.1 (7) win over North Wangaratta on Satu rday, with Bomber Luke Murray booting 10 goals in a dominant display of firepower. Early chances went begging for the Bombers, only leading by two goals with a host of minor scores, 2.6

BY NATHAN DE VRIES ndevries@ nemedia.com.au

to North Wangaratta’s solitary goal.

The second term saw Bonnie Doon’s forwards hit their stride, booting 10.12 while keeping their

opposition scoreless to enter the half-time break with an 84 point advantage over the Hawks.

The Hawks had no answers to Bonnie Doon’s slick midfield craft and pinpoint ball skills, as the Bombers piled another six goals and a handful of additional minor scores through the third term,

with the scoreboard making for grim viewing for the North Wangaratta faithful.

Bonnies Doon had no shortage of power players up forward, with Luke Murray reaping the rewards with 10 goals for the game, with four other Bombers kicking multiple majors.

For the Hawks, David Killen, Kyle McQuade and Tyler Schulze fought hard all day, with Kye Williams their only goal scorer.

Bonnie Doon coach Ken Murray said errant kicking early would have to be fine-tuned before finals.

“The first quarter, we were taking shots from positions we probably didn’t

set up well enough going in,” he said.

“We were taking shots from 40 out, odd angles, whereas from that second quarter onwards, we generated a lot better looks.

“We were getting shots on goal from 30, 35 out on good angles, we just couldn’t put it through the middle.

■ Continued page 18

PHOTO: Marc Bongers