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GRAND FINAL Sunday, September 21 Lavington Sports Ground

SENIORS - 2.30pm

NETBALL C GRADE: Wangaratta vs Wangaratta Rovers 3:15pm B GRADE: Yarrawonga vs North Albury - 1:45pm A GRADE: Wodonga Raiders vs Yarrawonga - 12:15pm 17 & UNDER: Wodonga Raiders vs Wangaratta Rovers - 10:15am 15 & UNDER: Wodonga Raiders vs Myrtleford - 8:45am

WANGARATTA ROVERS

WANGARATTA MAGPIES

RESERVES - 11:30pm Wangaratta Rovers vs Lavington THIRDS - 9am Wangaratta vs Lavington

PREMIERSHIP BATTLE: Wangaratta Rovers and Wangaratta Magpies players prepared for their respective O&M grand finals this Sunday are (clockwise, from top left) Brodie Filo (seniors), Xavier Laverty (seniors), Trey Vincent (reserves), Angus Jayet (thirds), Brooke Henwood (C grade), Holly Semmens (C grade), and Lily Palmer (17 and under).

‘REPREHENSIBLE’ Police investigate scam seeking to profit off tragic deaths of fallen colleagues

A reported scam claiming to be raising money on behalf of the families of two fallen policemen has been slammed by local police.

Wangaratta police issued a statement on Wednesday saying they had received a report of a scam targeting residents and businesses in the Alpine and Wangaratta regions.

and Senior Constable Vadim de Waart-Hottart, who were tragically killed in Porepunbzimmermann@ kah on 26 August. nemedia.com.au The statement also read The statement read a con- that different levels of busiman purported to be a police ness advertisement were offered in return for each officer collecting donation donation. packages from $500-$2500 Acting Inspector Mick Drew on behalf of the families of of Wangaratta police said the Detective Leading Senior scam attempt was nothing Constable Neal Thompson

BY BAILEY ZIMMERMANN

short of “reprehensible”.

“We want it denounced in the strongest possible terms,” he said.

“It’s tragic enough what the Thompson, de-WaartHottart and the injured third officer’s family members are going through at the moment and the community as well.

“Unfortunately, there’s

always an element that will look to take advantage during times of pain, grief loss and suffering.

“We’re very committed to investigating the matter as thoroughly as possible and hopefully identifying any perpetrator and making sure we hold them to account.”

Act Insp Drew said it was too early to tell if one or

multiple scammers were at large but the investigation made significant progress in the 24 hours since it began on Wednesday.

“One of our strong focuses at this stage is to make the community aware that this activity is going on,” he said.

“We’re not yet aware of how widespread it might be.”

■ Continued page 2

aying Goodluck to all teams pl ndfinal in tomorrow’s O&M Gra

Page 2 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, September 19, 2025

wangarattachronicle.com.au

Two local builders take home regional awards

Wangaratta builder R&R Quality Homes and Commercial Constructions has taken out the top home gong, along with two more accolades for the same house, at the 2025 HIA Northern Victoria Regional Housing Awards, held in Yarrawonga.

A beautifully executed renovation and two-storey extension of a 1900s period home in Wangaratta’s Templeton Street was named HIA Home of the Year, best addition, and best renovation between $1-$2 million for the region.

The winning home strikes a harmonious balance between traditional elegance and contemporary design.

Judges said existing brickwork, Cementil Barestone wall cladding, and Maxline and Dominion profile Colorbond cladding have been thoughtfully combined in a durable, low maintenance exterior that seamlessly transitions from existing to new.

Inside, a single-spine staircase, the striking focal point of the open-plan kitchen, dining and living space, was one of the many highlights noted by the judges.

The home features ample natural light and seamless connectivity to three outdoor living spaces, including an outdoor kitchen and bar area.

“HIA congratulates everyone at R&R Quality Homes and Commercial Constructions on this award,” HIA Victoria executive director Keith Ryan said.

“The judges described the R&R team’s workmanship and attention to detail as ‘exceptional’ and selected this home as the standout from an incredibly strong field of entrants.”

Ovens & King Builders won the Greensmart Sustainable Home award for their construction of a Wangaratta home.

The home has an 8.3 star energy rating and uses 50 per cent less energy than a 7-star home.

It’s powered by renewable energy (including at 10kW photovoltaic system).

The builder’s innovative application of plaster linings as an internal membrane also contributed to an impressive level of airtightness.

High-performance insulation, heat recovery ventilation and double glazing contribute to energy efficiency as well as thermal comfort, and features such as energy efficient LED lighting and 6000 litres of rainwater storage round out an impressive package.

“The HIA awards showcase the best of the best in the residential building industry, and the outstanding quality of work being carried out by HIA members,” Mr Ryan said. “Many exceptional homes have been recognised in the 2025 HIA Northern Victoria Regional Housing Awards, and HIA congratulates all of the winners and finalists.”

Police are investigating scam seeking to profit off tragic deaths of fallen colleagues ■ from page 1

Act Insp Drew said there had been no losses from any local businesses who reported to receive a scam call.

Act Insp Drew reiterated to the community the only police recognised and advocated fundraiser for officers and their families was managed through Victoria Police Legacy.

“It’s important for anyone wishing to donate goes through that channel to do so and not at the behest of unknown people who may seek to prey upon their vulnerabilities,” he said.

Act Insp Drew said anyone who received a suspected scam call of this nature should report it to Wangaratta police on (03) 5723 0888 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

They are also strongly encouraged to refrain from making any donations to suspected scam callers.

“We’re doing all we can to try and prevent anyone from falling victim to what is clearly a scam,” he said.

You can donate to Victoria Police Legacy via their website: https:// www.policelegacyvic.org.au/ support-us/make-a-donation.

The search for Det Led Sen Const Thompson and Sen Const deWaart-Hottart’s alleged killer Dezi Freeman continues in the rugged bushland in the Porepunkah area.

A $1 million reward remains on offer for information leading to Freeman’s arrest, the largest ever offered in Victoria for facilitating an arrest.

Victoria Police advises those in the area to remain vigilant and report any suspicious behaviour.

Previous travel restrictions through Porepunkah were lifted last week.

Police advise that if you see Freeman, call 000 immediately but do not approach him as he was still considered heavily armed and dangerous.

Anyone with other information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000, submit a confidential report online at www. crimestoppersvic.com.au or visit your local police station.

For the most current advice and updates relating to this search, visit https://www.police.vic.gov. au/porepunkah-shooting-andsearch-desmond-freeman-filby

R&R THE BEST: HIA Home of the Year and best renovation for Northern Victoria division went to Wangaratta builder R&R Quality Homes and Commercial Constructions.

WINNERS: R&R Quality Homes and Commercial Constructions’ ATom Barnes (left), Andrew Worland, Rob Humpreys, Todd Rufford-Sharpe and Ryan McKibbon celebrated an unexpected SMART HOME: Ovens & King Builders won the Greeensmart win for the overall Home of the Year. They also took out the best renovation for the same house.

Sustainable Home award.

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THE CHRONICLE, Friday, September 19, 2025 - Page 3

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Former NHW worker avoids conviction for ‘mystifying’ $34k fraud

A former Northeast Health Wangaratta (NHW) employee has avoided conviction after swindling more than $34,000 from the hospital in offending that “mystified” everyone around him.

The 49-year-old appeared at Wangaratta Magistrates’ Court on Thursday in front of a packed court room to plead guilty to 17 charges of obtaining funds by deception.

He was previously facing 92 charges, but they were withdrawn in place of the 17 charges.

The court heard from November 2021 to April 2023 the defendant deceived his employer by claiming funds for the services of hospital staff for his own.

From 2018 NHW and Alexandra District Hospital (ADH) entered a services agreement for NHW radiologists to attend ADH once a week and offer their medical imaging services at the hospital.

In September 2021, the independent radiologist at the Alexandra hospital retired and the accused assumed responsibilities of submitting invoices to ADH for payment to NHW. In the monthly invoices, dates, duties and hours of each employee of NHW, primarily three radiologists, were submitted.

But instead of the funds being directed to the hospital, the accused used his own bank account under the header of his own private medical imaging service to have the funds sent directly to him.

The invoices varied from $800 to as much as $3000, totaling $34,338 over the 16-month period.

The accused concealed information of the invoices from NHW and covered up hours committed to tasks at ADH. In October 2022 ADH asked for a clarification on the hours billed in the invoices and the employees’ initials signed on them.

Following an internal investigation into the accused’s conduct, he resigned from his position at NHW. He was interviewed by police in July 2024 and told a detective he couldn’t explain the offending other than it was a bookkeeping error and he reimbursed

$16,000 worth of the funds stolen once identified.

The court heard the man repayed the rest of the funds to the hospital at a later date.

The matter had been adjourned several times throughout the year, with the accused employing the help of Barrister Colin Mandy SC, who also defended convicted murderer Erin Patterson in her Supreme Court trial earlier this year.

The matter had also been adjourned in the days following the tragic death of the lead investigator of the case, Detective Leading Senior Constable Neal Thompson.

Mr Mandy said the late detective summed it up best after a heart-to-heart conversation with the accused following his police interview, telling him he was a good bloke, who had made a bad decision.

Mr Mandy said a combination of deteriorating depression and anxiety, a significant workload following COVID-19 and financial pressures became too much for his client and led to a “significant lapse in judgement”.

The court heard the accused and his family had hundreds of thousands of dollars of damage done to their home due to flooding in 2018, which Mr Mandy said added to the financial stress.

Family, friends and supporters of the accused filled the body of the court, many of them Mr Mandy said were “mystified” upon finding out about the offending.

“His reputation to some extent has diminished, even among his family,” he said.

“They understand what he has done was dishonest and they are mystified by it as well.”

Many character references were read out in court which indicated the man was otherwise an exemplary member of the Wangaratta community.

“They really speak with one voice about a good man,” Mr Mandy said.

“He wants an opportunity to have the community trust in him restored and he’s doing everything he can.”

One friend said the 49-year-old was an invaluable mentor to young men in the

football community and his “lapse in judgement” was not a reflection of who he was.

A colleague at Mansfield District Health said it was clear the 49-year-old was ashamed of his actions and deeply remorseful, and was highly respected despite the allegations hanging above him.

The court heard the medical governing body Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA) were set to review the 49-year-old’s medical practicing licence following the court matters.

Mr Mandy said a non-conviction was crucial to seeing the 49-year-old back into his work which would best serve him and his community.

Police prosecutor Acting Senior Sergeant Kane Williams said police were not pushing for jail time or conviction despite the seriousness of the offending and remorse and accountability he had been shown.

“It’s clear he was a very high standing member of this community,” he said.

Magistrate Peter Dunn, who contemplated sending the matter to a higher court before accepting the jurisdiction, imposed an 18 month community corrections order without conviction.

Magistrate Dunn said the man’s proactiveness in seeking help by seeing a psychologist regularly and longstanding contribution to the community persuaded him to not give a conviction.

“I can’t repeat too many times, this is a massive breach of trust,” he said.

“The impact on all of his family and friends from his behaviour will weigh heavily on him.

“We all know health providers are in need of all the funding they can get.

“If he is ever to return to assist in the community with his skills he will have to persuade them [APRA].

“I would have every confidence he will continue to seek assistance.”

The order will include 150 hours of community and treatment for the 49-yearold’s mental health.

NHW declined to comment.

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OFF THE ROAD: An 18-year-old Bandiana man had his licence suspended for six months on Sunday, just an hour after he received his licence.

P-plater’s licence gone within an hour after caught speeding

By BAILEY ZIMMERMANN A Bandiana teen who just received his P-plates on Sunday in Wangaratta had his licence suspended within the hour near Wooragee.

A Wodonga police spokesperson said highway patrol officers clocked a black Yamaha motorcycle at 134km/h on the Beechworth-Wodonga Road in a 100km/h zone.

The 18-year-old man had just completed a ‘Ride Safe’ course in Wangaratta and only

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held his probationary licence for less than an hour.

“When he handed over his paper licence, the ink was still wet,” the spokesperson said.

The Bandiana teen also tested positive for drug driving and received $1272 in fines to go with his six-month licence suspension.

“A reminder that speeding and drug driving doesn’t just cost money - they cost lives,” the spokesperson said.

“Take it slow, ride safe, and make good choices on our roads.”

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Page 4 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, September 19, 2025

wangarattachronicle.com.au

Est. 1884, Incorporating Wangaratta Despatch, Est. 1861

SIGNIFICANT REDEVELOPMENT: Deputy secretary Mental Health and Wellbeing Pam Anders, AWH chief executive officer Bill Appleby, AWH Allied Health and Mental Health chief operating officer Alana Jacob, AWH nurse unit manager Kerferd Unit Jessica Johnson, AWH mental health clinician Rob Sartori and AWH clinical nurse consultant Kerferd Unit Fiona Pilkington.

PHOTO: Jordan Duursma

WEATHER

New era in mental health care as Kerferd Unit’s new Intensive Care Area opens

TEMPERATURES: Friday

BY JORDAN DUURSMA

Max 20 Min 6 Possible shower

jduursma@ nemedia.com.au

Saturday Max 13 Min 5 Mostly sunny Sunday

Max 15 Min 4 Possible shower

Monday

Max 16 Min 5 Late shower

Tuesday

Max 17 Min 1 Mostly sunny

RAINFALL:

Last 72 hours

Last 7 days

Wangaratta

9.0mm

9.0mm

Lake Buffalo

18.2mm

18.2mm

Cheshunt

18.8mm

18.8mm

*NB: Rainfall totals up until 3pm, Thursday

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

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

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

Responsibility for election comment is accepted by Editor Jeff Zeuschner.

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

Member

A major milestone in mental health care has been reached for Wangaratta and surrounds, with the completion of a significant infrastructure upgrade to the Kerferd Intensive Care Area (ICA).

Delivered in partnership with Albury Wodonga Health (AWH), the Victorian Health Building Authority (VHBA), and Keystone Building Group, the redevelopment marks a transformative step toward safer, more dignified and recovery-focused environments for adults receiving acute mental health support.

AWH Allied Health and Mental Health chief operating officer, Alana Jacob, said the upgrade represents a strategic investment in the future of mental health care.

“It reflects our commitment to embedding trauma-informed design into our infrastructure and ensuring our environment supports the recovery, dignity and safety of every person in our care,” she said.

“We are deeply grateful to VHBA for their support in turning this project into a reality.”

The upgraded ICA has been purpose-built to support traumainformed and gender-sensitive care, with features designed to enhance privacy, safety and therapeutic engagement.

These include: • private bedroom ensuites for dignity and security; • consumer-controlled swipe card access to bedrooms, promoting autonomy; • redesigned seclusion spaces for safer, more therapeutic management; • dedicated family meeting room to strengthen engagement; and

A NEW ERA: AWH Allied Health and Mental Health chief operating officer Alana Jacob announcing the completion of the project along side AWH clinical nurse consultant Kerferd Unit Fiona Pilkington and AWH nurse unit manager Kerferd Unit Jessica Johnson.

• expanded therapeutic areas supporting recovery-focused practice.

The project responds directly to a recommendation of the Royal Commission into Victoria’s Mental Health System, which calls for improved gender-based safety and consumer autonomy in inpatient care settings.

The completion of the ICA upgrades was celebrated last Thursday, 11 September with representatives from the Department of Health, including deputy secretary of Mental Health and Wellbeing Pam Anders, members of the executive teams of AWH, Northeast Health Wangaratta and Gateway Health, project partners, clinical staff members and communitive representatives.

Attendees were given guided tours of the redeveloped ICA, allowing guests to experience firsthand the features designed to support safety, dignity and recovery.

Ms Anders said the investment is part of a statewide reform program aimed at modernising care

and increasing capacity.

“It’s not just about uplifting workforce and capacity, but also looking to upgrade facilities and increase the capacity facilities so we can bring mental health into a the 21st century in terms of contemporary care,” she said.

“We also know there’s significant demand on services, so it’s about transforming the existing system and and growing it as well.

“A real focus of the program is not just about the access to services, but it’s about equality.

“It’s about increasing more equitable access across the state, where there is fast growing populations and the system hasn’t kept up.

“There are different requirements that need to be met to provide the care communities need in regional areas.”

The upgraded ICA began operation this week, with clinical teams supporting consumers in a space that reflects the evolving standards of contemporary, consumer-centred mental health care.

Kerferd Unit nurse unit manager, Jessica Johnson, said staff were ready to use these new features in a way that enhances therapeutic relationships with consumers.

“This space has been designed with purpose, and we’re proud to be part of a service that puts consumer experience at the centre,” she said.

AWH director of nursing, mental health and wellbeing, Matthew Grace, said the inclusion of private ensuites and consumer-controlled access reflects their commitment to listening to consumer feedback and implementing best practice standards.

“It represents a significant step forward in delivering care that is safe, gender-sensitive, and recovery-focused,” he said.

“By creating a more respectful and private environment, we are reinforcing our dedication to person-centred care and ensuring that individuals feel valued, safe, and supported throughout their recovery journey.”

THE CHRONICLE, Friday, September 19, 2025 - Page 5

wangarattachronicle.com.au

Whitfield water usage highest in North East

Springhurst residents are using less water per person per day than any other households in the Rural City of Wangaratta so far this spring.

According to North East Water (NEW) weekly water usage figures for the first two weeks of September, daily water use per person averages 199 litres in Springhurst, compared to 205 litres in Wangaratta/Glenrowan, 212.5 litres in Moyhu, 233 litres in Oxley and a whopping 311.5 litres in Whitfield.

In fact, Whitfield’s daily average water use per person is the highest across the North East region.

NEW general manager of environmental systems and operations, John Day, said the average daily usage across the region was 202 litres per person.

“While every community depends on water for daily life, the data reveals some towns are using much more than others,” he said.

“For example, towns like Whitfield recorded average daily usage of 318 litres per person (second week), while on the lower end, Walwa used just 133

NEW is reminding residents and visitors that Permanent Water Saving Rules (PWSR) are in place year-round across Victoria and include:  Always use a trigger nozzle on your hose.  Only use watering systems between 6pm and 10am.  Never hose down concrete paths or driveways.

Weekly water usage statistics are available at www.newater.com.au/usage, while people can find great tips to reduce water consumption at www.waterwise.tips.

litres per person per day.

“To put that into perspective, the difference between Whitfield and Walwa is equivalent to around six four-minute showers per day.

“This data gives us a great opportunity to reflect on our habits and consider how we can all use water more wisely.”

Mr Day said most of the region’s water storages are now in a much better position compared to earlier this winter, when water restrictions were a real possibility for several towns.

“However, the volume we’re permitted to extract from rivers this summer is lower than previous years,” he said.

“This could impact larger towns like Wodonga, Wangaratta and Yarrawonga, especially if demand increases during peak periods.

“We’re also closely monitoring Bright, where water usage remains high and the storage is low.

“If consumption doesn’t decrease there, we may need to introduce staged water restrictions there as early as December.”

Weekly water usage statistics are available at www.newater. com.au/usage, while people can find great tips to reduce water consumption at www.waterwise. tips.

HYPATIA TALKS HER WAY TO THE STATE PUBLIC SPEAKING FINAL THIS SUNDAY Cathedral College Wangaratta grade 4 student Hypatia Fidge (pictured) will compete in state final of the Lions Club Junior Public Speaking contest at Kialla West this Sunday.

Hypatia recently won the district

level final at Corowa after having qualified at her school level and then moving onto club and regional finals.

Her three minute speech was about creating a new invention.

Page 6 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, September 19, 2025

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Family to undertake Mighty Trek for preemie newborns

CHAMPION: Avery Exintaris (pictured) spent almost 100 days in the neonatal intensive care unit in Melbourne.

BY GRACE FREDSBERG

gfredsberg@ nemedia.com.au

Father’s Day this year was extra special for Wangaratta dad Dan Exintaris as he celebrated the occasion with his premature one-year-old son Avery, whose earliest days were supported by Life’s Little Treasures Foundation (LLTF).

One of Australia’s leading support organisations for parents of sick and premature children, LLTF will be commemorating their 20th anniversary this year with their Mighty Trek Challenge as part of the annual Walk for Prems event.

Throughout October, they’ll be travelling 900km and pushing a NICU incubator through 20 selected locations from Sydney to Melbourne.

Dan and his wife Fairlie Exintaris will be partnering with the foundation during their stop to Norm Minns Oval, Wangaratta on Thursday, 16 October, with the couple to assist in pushing the NICU incubator.

Dan and Fairlie’s first steps into parenthood were far from their expectations; after infertility struggles, Fairlie conceived through IVF in 2020 and later gave birth to their daughter Sutton at 35+3 weeks, weighing just 1650g.

Sutton spent three weeks in special care, requiring low-flow oxygen due to her premature arrival, and this experience was very isolating and difficult to navigate, especially during the peak of the pandemic.

They acquired the support of LLTF through a family member’s recommendation, and their Precious Prems Pack provided much-needed

LIFE’S LITTLE TREASURES: The Exintaris family engaged the support of Life’s Little Treasures Foundation with the birth of their first child Sutton and again when their son Avery was born at 25 weeks. Pictured are Fairlie (second left) and Dan Exintaris with daughter Sutton (far left) and son Avery. guidance, support and comfort during this time.

“We were up in Brisbane at the time and received a pack from Life’s Little Treasures but we didn’t know much about (the organisation) at the time,” Dan said.

Fairlie delivered their son Avery at just 25 weeks old after being transported to Melbourne due to ruptured membranes and no fluid being detected in a 23-week scan.

Only weighing 899g, Avery proved as resilient as his older sister, being welcomed home in January this year after spending 96 days in hospital.

As parents from regional Victoria, the experience was nothing short of tough, being away from home, unable to work and apart from their daughter Sutton.

“I think they (LLTF) are looking at how best to support regional families,” Dan said.

“It was a bit different for us - I grew up in Brisbane my whole life so our first child lived in the city, it was a lot easier.

“But being remote/regional now and going to Melbourne, having to stay in Melbourne for three months, it was a different time all together.”

Support from Ronald McDonald House and LLTF through care packs, community and connection helped them navigate through this difficult time. “(LLTF) were pretty good, giving us all sorts of things like a morning tea at the hospital, a gift voucher to spend, lots of little things over the time we were there,” Dan said.

“They’re always someone you can turn to... offering whatever they can to support parents in need.”

He urged the community to get behind the cause whether through participating in the walk or making a

donation toward funding incubators, which aren’t cheap but save lives.

“Someone will always be in need,” Dan said, “It’d be good to get the community behind this because it’s something not a lot of people know about.”

Dan and Fairlie are running a personal fundraiser with a goal of raising $1000 which you can donate to at walk-for-prems-2025. raiselysite.com/t/avery-sutton-exintaris.

To register and for more information on the various options available, visit themightytrek.org.au.

Be prepared and register your burn-off online, urges CFA With people are preparing their property for fire season, emergency services are urging landowners to register their burn-offs online through the Fire Permits Victoria website.

Spring is a common time for landowners to take advantage of the favourable weather conditions to conduct burning off activities, however up to 50 per cent aren’t registering their burn-offs online, with many unnecessarily waiting on hold to

register over the phone.

Triple Zero Victoria chief operating officer, Nicole Ashworth, said the quickest and easiest way to register your burn-off is by using the Fire Permits Victoria website at www.firepermits.vic.gov.au/ notify.

CFA chief officer Jason Heffernan said by registering your burn-off, it allows emergency services to verify the fire is not an emergency before unneces-

sarily calling out local brigades.

“It also allows us to display burn-offs on the CFA website so the public can see where a burn-off is taking place, preventing needless calls to Triple Zero (000),” he said.

“Over the past year, CFA responded to nearly 900 escaped burn-offs, which utilised around 19,000 hours of our volunteers’ time.

“Please don’t leave your burn-off unattended and only

burn-off when conditions are favourable.”

The website allows you to notify emergency services of your burn-off, and also check and apply for a permit, if necessary.

However, if your burn is taking place within the next two hours, you must register your burn via the phone line on 1800 668 511.

For more information about burning off safely, visit www. cfa.vic.gov.au/burn-off.

Before you register your burn-off make sure you: • Follow regulations or laws by CFA and local council.

• Notify your neighbours if the burn will generate fire and smoke.

• Check the weather forecast for the day of the activity and a few days afterward.

• Postpone your activity if high fire risk conditions develop.

• Establish a gap in vegetation or fire break of no less than three metres cleared of all flammable material.

• Have enough people to monitor, contain and extinguish the burn safely and effectively.

• Never leave a burn-off unattended.

THE CHRONICLE, Friday, September 19, 2025 - Page 7

wangarattachronicle.com.au

HELP WANTED TO CREATE 100 GUITARS FOR WANGARATTA JAZZ FESTIVAL

By ANITA MCPHERSON SCHOOLS and community groups are invited to help turn 100 guitars created by the Wangaratta Men’s Shed into canvases ready for decoration during the 2025 Wangaratta Festival of Jazz and Blues.

Ten years ago, members of the Wangaratta Men’s Shed group were vital contributors to the Diddley Bow project - a fun and highly successful community engagement activity created for the festival by instrument maker Luke Davies and art teacher David Godkin.

This year, the Wangaratta Men’s Shed are at it again, creating 100 guitars for a new project paying tribute to the great Blues singer and guitarist BB King, who would have turned 100 this month.

The 100 guitars are in the shape of BB King’s black Gibson guitar he called Lucille, which will be covered by a layer of paper mache, painted black and made available at the commu-

nity stage area over the festival weekend for people to decorate as part of an arts activity, with guidance from volunteers.

This year’s project is once again being led by Mr Godkin, who has conducted a number of entertaining engagement projects for the festival.

He said it should be a lot of fun, and a great way to learn about the history and culture of Blues music and its influence on the music of today.

“It’s a fun way to learn about BB King - one of the greats of Blues music - with the reverse side of the guitar to have a photo and some information about him,” Mr Godkin said.

“I was very fortunate to see him and his band perform in Melbourne’s Festival Hall about 1990 and it was memorable - his band absolutely rocked.”

Any schools or community groups interested in getting involved in the 100 GUITARS project are encouraged to contact Mr Godkin on 0439 040 868 or via wangjazzblues.com.au.

ROCKING OUT: Members of the Wangaratta Men’s Shed including (from left) Max Vincent, Owen Rush (president), Charlie Parkinson (vice president) and Jon Guymer (behind the BB King record cover), with BB King records, guitar PHOTO: David Godkin shapes and Diddley Bows in hand, are supporting the 100 GUITARS project.

Man admits to stealing ute in home burglary

A Benalla man has admitted to his role in a home burglary of a couple’s ute after several warrants were issued for his arrest for avoiding authorities and the courts.

The 25-year-old appeared from the custody box at Wangaratta Magistrates’ Court this week seeking bail, after pleading guilty to aggravated burglary of a car and assault.

The court heard in the early hours of 1 May last year, the man, who was living in Wangaratta at the

time, broke into an elderly couple’s Benalla home as they were sleeping, took the keys of their white Isuzu utility and drove off in it.

It is alleged there were three other co-accused during the offending and the 25-year-old was unlicenced at the time of driving.

The accused drove to Wangaratta and the car was found by police at Bunnings Warehouse around 8am with four occupants.

Detectives went to search a property frequented by

the accused in Wangaratta at 12:30pm, finding the stolen utility affixed with stolen number plates.

Three of the accused would attempt to flee, jumping the fence at the back of the property.

A fourth alleged cooffender was arrested inside the address.

The 25-year-old would later be charged with the offending on 3 July last year after a search of this home.

He also pleaded guilty to assault of his neighbour, an

elderly woman, hitting her in the head with a piece of plywood.

The court heard the man had been in and out of custody numerous times since the offending due to several warrants being issued for his non-appearances in court.

Giving evidence, Senior Constable Eli Holland-Dean said the 25-year-old actively avoided police on multiple arrests, giving a false name on one occasion and attempting to hide in a pile of clothes on another.

“The accused has shown a complete disregard to conditions while on bail,” Sen Const Holland-Dean said.

The man was arrested on Saturday on Cowan Street in Benalla.

The court heard the 25-year-old was a daily user of cannabis and took methylamphetamine regularly.

Magistrate Megan Casey remanded the man in custody for a community corrections order assessment to be completed before reappearing at court today.

Caring, Ageing Well Festival in October A Caring and Ageing Well Festival will be held as part of 2025 Wangaratta Seniors Festival at the Wangaratta Performing Arts and Convention Centre on Wednesday, 15 October from 10am to 1pm.

Presented by the Rural City of Wangaratta and Open Door Neighbourhood House, the free event celebrates older adults and carers, with information available from local services who can provide tips for healthy ageing, support for carers plus fun activities for community connection.

All are welcome, with no bookings required.

Page 8 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, September 19, 2025

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

Rural city takes O&M’s centre stage The Ovens and Murray grand final is one of the major sporting events in the North East and this year it is dominated by Wangaratta clubs It’s been 48 years since the two clubs met in a senior football decider so this will become another one for the history books, and no doubt Kevin Hill’s blog.

Given the level of competition needed to stay in the race against the Albury/Wodonga clubs, it’s a testament to everyone involved.

From the footballers and netballers doing battle, and those who volunteer at the canteen, to the parents who drive their kids to practice each week and the teenagers who sacrifice their weekends for the game, and the sponsors and members, the involvement is community wide.

Forget the rivalry between the clubs, Sunday isn’t just about Magpies or Rovers, the rural city as a whole has skin in the game.

In a regional area such as ours, it’s generally impossible to be connected through a single thread, but everywhere you look in those taking part this weekend there are connections, from former schoolmates competing against each other, to the next generation of footballers and netballers following in their parents’ footsteps, some even switching allegiances.

The cross pollination between the Rovers and the Magpies today highlights how those old rivalries can change, even if they will never disappear totally during winter.

And while we are all chuffed to see Wangaratta in the race, it is such a pity that our town won’t economically benefit more from the sheer number of people who will make their way to Lavington Sports Ground.

Maybe one day.

CROSSWORD NATIONAL CROSSWORDPUZZLE 14431 1

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SOLUTION Solution No.14431 C A R P E T F E W S J R R E L E V A N T A R O M A E D I T E C E D E P R E F E C T S M I S T I T R O D R F O E S N O M I T S P A T E L A N D R O T P T S A R U S U R Y P A C E R P S L O E S E R E N A D E T E R M E P E E I S T L E I C O A L E S C E R N K D E N S T Y L E S

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C A R P E T F E W S J R R E L E V A N T A R O M A E D I T E C E D E P R E F E C T S M I S T I T R O D R F O E S N O M I T S P A T E L A N D R O T P T S A R U S U R Y P A C E R P S L O E S E R E N A D E T E R M E P E E I S T L E I C O A L E S C E R N K D E N S T Y L E S

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Facebook users this week commented on GoulburnMurray Water’s concern over a lead contamination risk from solar panels at the proposed Meadow Creek Solar Farm.

Neil John Maclean: Idiots !

Leslie Matthews: 0.1% of the total weight of a solar panel might contain lead. there’s more lead leaching from the farmer’s tractor...

Dave Allen: Leslie Mat-

thews so .1%per panel x how many solar panels in the paddock? Adds up a little quick.

Leslie Matthews: Dave Allen stick to crayons Dave Dave Allen: Leslie Matthews standard tractor battery has roughly 8.7kg of lead. Industrial solar panels contain 12-15g. So doing maths, you only need a little over 1300 panels per battery per paddock.

Leslie Matthews: Dave Allen Interesting arithmetic

but there you go. I must say 12 grams sounds more than 0.1% though...

Dave Allen: Leslie Matthews yeh, purple crayons gets the old think tank going Leslie Matthews: Dave Allen Compared to open cut coal mining, fracking or even nuclear solar still presents as the cleanest option but why let facts get in the way, ideology wins out every time...

Gustov Balart: The science is in - GMW is out...

John Barnard: Surprised it got this far before the corrupt Labor government told them to pull their heads in Facebook users this week also commented on council plans to respond to a predicted change in households over the next decade in the city.

Nathan Andrew: Mega rates $$$$$ Adam Anderson: Sweet, are we getting a 5th bin? Can’t wait....

Have your say Like the Wangaratta Chronicle Facebook page.

Wangaratta Chronicle 15.7K followers

Unpaid staff placement is unfair in 21st century Having recently spent many hours at Northeast Health Wangaratta ICU, I was surprised to learn that staff on placement during their training, often a long way from family support and needing to spend money to enable their further training, are not remunerated for their enormous level of dedication.

Had they taken on any apprenticeship in a different field they would have been paid.

Had they decided not to do anything productive at all upon leaving school they would have been supported by our generous Centrelink system.

Dr Helen Haines our local federal member is making efforts in parliament to redress this disgraceful situation and ensure ‘A fair day’s pay’ for nurses, and I welcome that.

Let’s support her endeavors however we can.

The ‘Fair Work Commission’ surely needs to be involved, because this is clearly far from fair.

Peter Martin, Wangaratta

Peaceful protesters deserve more respect Whether it was two or three generations of the Edwards family who attended a march for Australia (Wangaratta Chronicle letters, Friday, 5 September) it doesn’t matter.

The blast from Georgina Rea (Wangaratta Chronicle letters, Wednesday, 10 September) for expressing their democratic right was uncalled for.

Dot Fox, Wangaratta

TRUE COLOURS: Damien Lappin from Sport North East with Matt Alferi, Nakita Walsh and

Victor Austin, all geared up in their footy colours for the VMCH School Holiday Program sports day on Wednesday, 24 September. To be led by the Sport North East team, the day celebrates the fact that AFL grand final weekend is just around the corner, with participants encouraged to wear the colours of their favourite sports teams, and get involved in a day full of energy, fun and connection. The event will feature a variety of sports and games designed to be inclusive and engaging for everyone, followed by a barbecue lunch. For more information, phone Bella on 0419 530 920.

The world is approaching the point of no return on climate action.

Only meaningful cuts to climate pollution this decade can address the worst climate risks outlined in this national report.

At three degrees of warming, sea-levels would rise by one-metre, leading to 18-times more coastal flooding and up to three million Australians in coastal communities facing a high or very high risk of flooding, erosion, and inundation by 2090.

This risk assessment demonstrates how urgently we need to slash climate pollution.

A strong target, as close to net zero as The Emergency Leaders for Climate Action say this week’s National Climate Risk Assess- possible, by 2035 is critical to help protect Australians and our economy from worsenment gives a confronting but not surprising picture of the escalating risks climate change ing climate disasters in the future.

Australian communities also need urgent poses to Australians.

The National Adaptation Plan intends to lay investment to adapt and prepare for superthe groundwork for preparing our communi- charged weather events coming at them over and over again. ties, business and emergency services for The assessment shows our emergency these risks. responders will face a greater physical and The National Climate Risk Assessment mental health burden from responding to predicts dangerous fire weather days will more frequent and potentially simultaneous happen more often, with longer fire seasons disasters. and the potential for megafires in southern Our emergency workers, our volunteers and eastern parts of the nation - at least until and our communities need to be protected mid-century, when forested areas may start from the worst of the escalating dangers. to change into grasslands.

Climate risk assessment rings alarm bells

We know that every dollar spent on climate change adaptation and disaster risk reduction saves between $2 and $11 in avoided recovery costs.

This can’t just be another report that ministers read over a coffee and then try to forget about.

The details are too confronting.

Australians expect a strong national plan to act on this climate emergency, not a timid climate target.

Greg Mullins, former Commissioner of Fire & Rescue NSW

WE welcome your letters to the Editor. Priority is given to typed/emailed letters under 250 words.

Every letter must have your full name, address and a daytime phone contact number supplied for verification purposes. Any letter may be edited for reasons of space, content or legibility.

Email

edit.chronicle@nemedia.com.au

Post Letters to the Editor,

37 Rowan St, Wangaratta 3677

THE CHRONICLE, Friday, September 19, 2025 - Page 9

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

Find our best photos at @wangchronicle

@wangyouth

Facebook users this week commented on Old Faithfulls owners plans to branch out after they lodged an application to open another cafe, restaurant and bar establishment in Wangaratta’s west end.

Melanie Hellebrand: That mouldy rundown building with no parking, all the neighbours did were complain to council about car parking and noise, It’s definitely not the right location if they want to keep their standards high.

Kirsty Hawkins: We definitely need another cafe this side of town David Thayer: How does old Faithfulls afford models to be in there articles. WOW

Have your say

Rhonda Wiedemann: Wonderful news for our young uns and young at heart!!

Bill Liam: By the time council look at it it’ll be up and running in 15 years Pete Rourke: Hop, skip and a jump Cara Stamp: David Hale came to town Bec Rowe: Yes please!

Lisa Bishop: Hell yes guys!!!

Georgia Mahoney: Lisa Bishop it’s a yes from me Hugh Mags: Cue the whingers because it’s going to be 600m from a school Ashleigh Rose: Hugh Mags circle of life up near the old country tavern, beer cemetary day care Andrew Flukie: Yes Please!!

Like the Wangaratta Chronicle Facebook page.

Wangaratta Chronicle 15.7K followers

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This time last week, , two of our Co-Design crew joined Andy Bell to present the draft Youth Strategy to our Councillors and Corporate Management Team (CMT). Andy, from Youth Gurus , was brought on as a consultant to help shape the strategy—and the first thing he asked for was a group of passionate young people to co-design it alongside him. After all, young people know young people best!

There were workshops and meetings, and they created a census to gather data, and finally, Sept 8th, the draft was presented! Well done team. You should be proud of everything! #wangyouth #youthstrategy

SPRING INTO THE SPRING CLEARANCE! 29 - 45 Tone Road, Wangaratta 3677

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Page 10 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, September 19, 2025

wangarattachronicle.com.au

LOCAL STORIES

Open doors, open hearts: Why shopping local matters with

MANDIE At Hello Petals in Wangaratta, the doors are always open.

For owner Mandie that detail mattered when she chose her shopfront. She wanted a space people would not hesitate to enter, a space were all community is welcome.

Mandie’s journey to floristry wasn’t straightforward. After 12 years of nursing, she found herself drained during the pandemic, watching families unable to visit their loved ones in aged care.

“I just wasn’t finding happiness in it anymore,” she says. Taking leave, she worked in a florist shop, discovered a new skill, and realised an old passion.

“As a kid, I always wanted to be a shopkeeper. I used to imagine sweeping the shopfront and keeping it beautiful,” she says.

Flowers, she admits, are a luxury, but they can also be meaningful. A bouquet marks a new baby’s arrival, a birthday, or the difficult farewell of a funeral. For her, the privilege of creating those tributes feels like a continuation of the care she once gave as a nurse.

On the counter during our chat sat a striking floral arrangement threaded with a Collingwood scarf. She

Hello Petals

Local Tips Shop Local: I love browsing at Sorella - Beth always has something a little bit different, and she’s been such a support to me.

Eat Local:

For coffee, I can’t go past TJ’s, Bread & Butter, or Clyde’s.

Each has its own vibe and they all do it so well.

Play Local:

When it’s time to go out, I enjoy Watermarc - the food is beautiful and the cocktails are amazing.

explained it was for her father’s best friend, who had been a cleaner at the local secondary school. He was, she said, a no-fuss kind of man, and the scarf was a tribute to his lifelong support of Collingwood.

In gestures like these, flowers become stories of people and community.

Supplying flowers locally is the majority of Mandie’s business and many of her arrangements are made with natives and foliage grown here in the North East.

“We’ve got a lady who grows the most beautiful zinnias and ranunculus around Christmas, and they fly out the door,” she says with a smile. Varieties of gum and other greenery often come from local gardens, brought in by people who want to support the shop.

“We never turn growers away.

If they’ve taken the time to pick something, I’ll buy it. It’s locals supporting locals,” she says.

While it might be easier to grab a bunch at the supermarket or online, she says it’s not quite the same as a face-to-face purchase. When asked what makes the difference, she talks about people that are connected to the shop.

“A young artist who sees her cards for sale on the shelf, a grower who drops off gum leaves from their garden, or kids pooling their coins to buy something special,” says Mandie.

For her, those connections are what keep small towns alive. And when asked what locals can do to help, her answer is simple.

“Every time someone buys here, it means we can employ local women, support community events, and keep our doors open. Without locals, we wouldn’t be here,” says Mandie.

MORE THAN A BUSINESS: For Mandie from Hello Petals, working as a florist is about connecting with people and using flowers to express their thoughts and feelings.

A small act makes a big impact.

Your yellow bin is now for paper, cardboard, metal and hard plastics only. Take a moment to update your recycling knowledge.

Visit wangaratta.vic.gov.au/purplebin

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wangarattachronicle.com.au

Man who trashed father’s home awaits sentence today A Myrtleford man who caused thousands of dollars in damage to his father’s home is set to be released after nearly two months in custody.

The 39-year-old appeared at Wangaratta Magistrates’ Court on Monday from a custody link from Melbourne Assessment Prison after being assessed for a community corrections order.

Magistrate Megan Casey is to sentence the defendant today.

He has pleaded guilty to trash-

ing his father’s home on numerous occasions from March to July this year, progressing in seriousness on each incident.

In July this year he was found to have destroyed the home and caused more than $50,000 worth of damage.

All the windows at the property were smashed, plaster was ripped off walls and a fire was lit in the living room on a pile of destroyed furniture.

He was arrested following the

incident and has been in custody since.

Just a week prior he was kicked out of the home by his father for doing around $10,000 worth of damage to the property.

He was also guilty of being in possession of small amounts of methylamphetamine and cannabis on numerous occasions, often when riding his bike without a helmet around Myrtleford.

In court on Monday, the man ad-

mitted to further offending during the same week of his most serious property damage incidents.

On 19 July he left two nurses in a Myrtleford hospital emergency department in fear after being told to leave and going on an aggressive outburst at the hospital.

He walked out to a nearby car park as police arrived, throwing a plastic bottle near a person and kicking the front and rear doors of a parked car.

When arrested he said he was heavily intoxicated and was bitten by a dog.

The court heard the results of the man’s psychology assessments indicated further testing and assessments may be necessary before he could be released.

A previous psychology report heard in court diagnosed the man with major depression, reduced intellect, chronic anxiety, PTSD and alcohol and drug abuse.

“Worth every step”: Dad running across states for neuroblastoma Most would consider a 30-day interstate trek from Melbourne all the way to the Sunshine Coast to be one of the most challenging journeys that one could ever take on; but it’s one that Melbourne dad Trent Robertson is willing to embark on in support of a worthy cause.

Dropping in at Glenrowan Primary School on Thursday, 4 September, Trent told students that he would be running 10 marathons and cycling 1200km in just 30 days as part of his challenge ‘Noosa for Neuro’.

He’s on a mission to raise vital funds for Neuroblastoma Australia during September Childhood Cancer Awareness Month.

Neuroblastoma is a type of cancer that tragically takes the lives of children under five more than any other cancer.

The aggressive type bears only a 50 per cent average fiveyear survival rate, and currently, one-third of neuroblastoma survivors suffer adverse side effects from the toxicity of their treatment.

So far, Trent has raised well over 50 per cent of his $100,000 goal and hopes the support he continues to garner will help fund safer, more effective treatments for this disease; especially since the cause hits close to home for him.

He said it was seven-yearold Oli, a family friend of the Robertsons, who was the driving force behind his dedication.

“Watching Oli’s journey

BY GRACE FREDSBERG

gfredsberg@ nemedia.com.au

opened my eyes to how cruel childhood cancer is and how desperately more support and research is needed so that no other child has to go through what Oli endured,” Trent said.

“As a dad with young kids, I felt a strong urge to do something.

“If putting myself through this challenge helps even one family, then it’s worth every step.”

Trent’s initiative took more than just getting out on the road, having dedicated the past two years to intensive training in preparation for what would be both his biggest physical and emotional challenge yet.

“It’s been an awesome first four days,” he told the Wangaratta Chronicle.

“I thought I’d reach out to a local school if I was going to stop in a town like this, bringing along a school for the ride.

“Hopefully they take something out of it and might learn a few life lessons.”

Trent said he travels for about four to five hours each day, dedicating the remainder of the day to recovery and rest.

You can follow Trent along on his journey to Noosa on his instagram: instagram. com/rockingrobbo, or visit his website noosa-for-neuro. raiselysite.com/ to make a donation.

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YOUTH SUPPORT: Students from Glenrowan Primary School had the opportunity to learn about Trent’s initiative as the team passed through the town.

CHALLENGE UNDERWAY: avelling from Parkdale, Trent Robertson (second from left) was joined by Luke Mann (to his left), Troy Allen (to his right) and Colin Stewart for the first phase of his ‘Noosa for Neuro’ fundraiser through Glenrowan.

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THE CHRONICLE, Friday, September 19, 2025 - Page 13

wangarattachronicle.com.au

Veterans rally around Wangaratta police

BY BAILEY ZIMMERMANN bzimmermann@ nemedia.com.au

A simple idea of a barbeque lunch gathering became much more at the Wangaratta Police Station last week as retired police veterans wrapped their arms around the local policing family.

More than 70 members of Police Veterans’ Victoria (PVV) came to the station to stand side-by-side with police members, sharing food and swapping stories under a bright and sunny Wangaratta day.

It came as a symbol of support as the community continues to come to grips with the loss of Wangaratta stationed officers Detective Leading Senior Constable Neal Thompson and Senior Constable Vadim de Waart-Hottart.

The officers were shot dead near Porepunkah on Tuesday, 26 August as part of a 10-member team executing a search warrant.

A third officer was shot and continued to recover at home.

Many former Wangaratta police members attended the barbeque along with former police officers from right across the state.

PVV chief executive officer Debra Richardson was at the station on Thursday, and she said it was clear the local community was still carrying a heavy loss in their hearts.

“Their foyer still has two shrines overflowing with flowers; their cupboards were already filled with food dropped off by their community; there were signs acknowledging the heroes on the way into town… but at the same time, their grief is still palpable,” she said.

“It wasn’t really about a barbeque, it was about a gathering to support each other, and I think that mattered.”

SUPPORT GOES ON: Police Veterans Victoria members paid a visit to the Wangaratta Police Station on Thursday and had a special barbeque lunch to stand with local members as the community continue to come to terms with the loss of fallen officers in Porepunkah.

Senior Sergeant and Wangaratta Police Station Commander Mick Mannix said it was a real thrill for the local force to have decades of police experience present at the station.

“For them to take time out of their day and to come at a time like this was so appreciated,” he said.

“It’s good to hear their experience back in the day and how it compares to today, the experience that was in the room was just something to behold.

“The underlying principles of policing are still very much the same.

“I love the history of it and I love the camaraderie of it.”

Snr Sgt Mannix said some of the veterans’ service stretched back as far as 50 years and it was great for the junior members of the force to take in their expertise and experience.

He said one of the attendees was also one of the lead investigators in the 1979 murder of Detective Senior Constable Rocky Lane near

Swan Hill, which led to the apprehension of David Chapman.

The circumstances were also close to many of the retired officers’ hearts, having served with Det Led Sen Const Thompson themselves.

“Some of this may have been triggering for them but they still made the effort to show their support, how do you thank them for that,” Snr Sgt Mannix said.

“We’ll never forget the service these people made for our community.”

Ms Richardson said the raw feeling of grief and shock continued to be felt across generations of the Blue family.

“My community all wanted to pull on a uniform last week and help,” she said.

“We are walking this dreadful journey with them.

“In the face of real adversity also comes the human spirit, and the chance to share, to remember and to support each other.

“It wasn’t the food that mattered most yesterday.

“It was being together.”

Over the weekend hundreds of serving and retired police embarked on the Wall to Wall Ride for Remembrance in a powerful display to honour their fallen colleagues.

The ride which raises money for Victoria Police Legacy, saw riders embark on an 850km journey to the National Police Memorial in Canberra.

A special legacy baton presented

by Acting Deputy Commissioner Russell Barrett contained the named of Det Led Sen Const Thompson and Sen Const de Waart-Hottart.

A ceremony was held at the Victoria Police Memorial on St Kilda Road before riders departed under police escort.

Some 2000 riders from police forces across Australia joined the riders as they arrived in Canberra on Saturday.

SUNDAYS First Sunday of the Month

1:30PM - 4:30PM

Noted historian to share story of WW2 hero Lovers of history writing will be excited to know that bestselling author Peter FitzSimons will be in Wangaratta next month.

The acclaimed historian will be at the Wangaratta Performing Arts and Convention Centre’s Memorial Hall on Thursday, 30 October from 6pm, in an event staged by Wangaratta Library and Booktique.

Mr FitzSimons will share insights into his latest work, ‘The Courageous Life of Weary Dunlop’, a gripping tribute to one of Australia’s greatest war heroes.

Discover the extraordinary story of Sir Edward ‘Weary’ Dunlop: surgeon, soldier, and saviour of thousands of POWs on the infamous Thai-Burma Railway during World War 2.

Through Mr FitzSimons’ vivid storytelling, Weary’s legacy of courage, compassion and resilience comes to life.

Tickets are $5 each, and can be secured via https://events. humanitix.com/meet-the-author-peter-fitzsimons-cr7h5glh

Open morning Myrrhee Primary School will hold an open morning on Friday, 17 October from 10am to 11am, with all year levels invited.

Families can visit the school and see the facilities, or they can contact the school to organise a tour or access an enrolment application at myrrheeps.vic.edu.au.

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Page 14 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, September 19, 2025

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WHAT’S ON THIS WEEKEND

A Tribute to the Eras of Taylor Swift concert Taylor: A Tribute to the Eras of Taylor Swift Music starring New Zealand singersongwriter and recording artist, Josette, will play at the Wangaratta Performing Arts and Convention Centre on Friday, 19 September at 7pm.

The all-ages concert will provide an opportunity for fans to get together with their fellow “Swifties”, celebrate their musical hero and be part of a fun and uplifting music experience, with Josette supported by an international cast of musicians and dancers.

Featuring over 20 renditions of Taylor’s biggest hits from every era of her career including Shake It Off, Anti-Hero, You Belong With Me, Love Story and more, tickets are available at wpacc.com.au.

Mat Vaughan exhibition to open at Wangaratta Art Gallery today A new exhibition by Wandiligongbased artist Mat Vaughan called There there, will open in Gallery 2 at the Wangaratta Art Gallery on Friday, 19 September.

Vaughan’s latest series of large-scale paintings delves into the creative process, examining how the act of making art influences both the artist and the viewer, reflecting on the enigmatic and sometimes elusive moment of completion.

A free opening celebration and artist talk will be held at 5pm, with all welcome and RSVP appreciated for catering purposes to wangarattaartgallery.com.au/Programs/Opening-ArtistTalk-There-there-Mat-Vaughan.

Moyhu Lions country market on tomorrow The next Moyhu Lions country market will be held at the Moyhu Lions Park in Moyhu on Saturday, 20 September from 8am to 12pm.

Browse a wide range of stalls with local produce, arts and crafts, giftware, spring seedlings and much more, enjoy a Lions breakfast and a freshly brewed coffee, and enter the monthly raffle, with the chance to win a $100 fuel voucher, drawn at 10.45am.

LA DOLCE VITA: See a collection of new work by resident artists Melissa Johns and Linda D’Agostino at the Art Gallery on Ovens until 29 PHOTO: Anita McPherson September.

Get a taste of Italy in combined exhibition

Local artists Melissa Johns and Linda D’Agostino are once again joining creative forces for their seventh combined exhibition titled The Sweet Life – La Dolce Vita.

The show celebrates the beauty of Italy’s landscapes alongside playful, sustainable art, offering visitors a colourful and uplifting experience.

Linda D’Agostino presents a new series of works inspired by a recent family holiday to Italy.

Her paintings reflect the breath-

taking scenery of Cinque Terre, the romance of Venice, the tranquil charm of the Lakes District, and the rolling hills of Tuscany.

Each piece captures the light, colour and atmosphere of the places that have long stirred the imagination of travellers and artists alike.

Melissa Johns continues her exploration of whimsical recycled art, reimagining discarded materials into vibrant and imaginative creations.

With a focus on sustainability and storytelling, her works transform everyday objects into delightful pieces that spark curiosity and joy.

Together, the exhibition brings contrasting yet complementary styles into harmony - D’Agostino’s sweeping landscapes evoke a sense of wonder and escape, while Johns’ inventive recycled works remind us of the magic to be found in reinvention.

The Sweet Life – La Dolce Vita

invites the community to slow down, savour the moment, and celebrate creativity in all its forms.

See it at the Art Gallery on Ovens in the laneway off Murphy Street on Monday, Thursday and Friday from 10am to 4pm and on Saturday and Sunday from 10am until 2pm, until 29 September.

An opening celebration will be held on Saturday, 20 September from 11am until 2pm with all welcome to attend.

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THE CHRONICLE, Friday, September 19, 2025 - Page 15

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WHAT’S ON THIS WEEKEND Geekcon 2025 at Wangaratta Library The region’s premier pop culture convention, GeekCon, will return to the Wangaratta Library in Docker Street on Saturday, 20 September from 2pm to 5.30pm.

Funded by the Engage program through the State Government and supported by the Rural City of Wangaratta, GeekCon 2025 offers an afternoon of creativity and community spirit for the seasoned cosplayer, tabletop adventurer, robotics enthusiast, or simply fans of all things geeky.

GeekCon will have a cosplay competition, gaming zone, Dungeons & Dragons adventures, LARP Battles, stalls and vendors and more, and is open to all ages with entry free and no registration required.

Timor-Leste and Indi Friendship celebration ALL-STAR JAM: Greats from the Aussie blues music scene will take to the stage at the Wangaratta Performing Arts and Convention Centre on Saturday night, in the Blues Guitar Roadshow.

PHOTO: Jason Rosewarne Photography

Celebration of Blues Guitar in Wangaratta

The Blues Guitar Roadshow ensemble spectacular will roll into Wangaratta this weekend for a show at the Wangaratta Performing Arts and Convention Centre on Saturday, 20 September at 8pm.

It has become one of the hottest tickets in the Australian blues scene, with sold-out shows and standing ovations across the country.

The roadshow is not a cover band or a tribute band, but a group of old-school, passionate musicians playing great music.

It brings together the best performers of the Aussie blues scene and puts them in front of both blues fans and mainstream “theatre” audiences, playing out like an old-time blues review, or variety show.

Music Victoria Hall of Famer

Andrea Marr emcees the show, with each artist in their own headline spot.

The BGR House band backs each artist for their individual set, and the show builds to the “All-Star Jam” where everyone hits the stage together and the audience can’t stay in their seats.

Among the lineup are Aussie blues legends, â€Lloyd Spiegel, Geoff Achison, Wilbur Wilde, The

McNaMarr Project (Andrea Marr/ John McNamara), Corey Legge, Dale Alison and Shane Gilbert.

It’s live music at its very best; the artists all inspiring each other to reach new heights, with the all-star jam at the conclusion simply unforgettable.

Described as being like four days of Byron Bay BluesFest rolled into one night, get your tickets now at wpacc.com.au.

An event to celebrate 20 years of friendship between the three friendship groups located in the North East Victorian region and communities in Timor-Leste, will be held at the Uniting Church Hall in Wangaratta on Saturday, 20 September from 6pm to 9pm.

There will be live music with the Mystic Trio band, video links to Timor-Leste, a raffle and other entertainment, with tea and coffee provided (BYO grazing platter and drinks).

Tickets are $25 per person available at trybooking.com/DEBZT.

Wangaratta Repair Café at the Sunday market Wang Repair Cafe have a special event this Sunday repairing toys and bikes to help get them back into working order, at the Wangaratta Community Market in Mason Street from 8am until 12pm.

They will also be fixing any other items people bring along, including garden tools, small furniture, textiles, electronics and electrical appliances, with more information available by visiting them on Facebook.

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Page 16 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, September 19, 2025

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Opening night of ‘Duck House’ was enjoyed by all Friends and family of King Valley artists Cara Dosser and Alex Ryan spent their Thursday evening browsing the pair’s latest exhibition at the Art Gallery on Ovens two weeks ago.

The exhibition, named ‘Duck House’ after the artists’ home and studio, featured a large array of works informed by the Australian landscape, something both artists resonate with having grown up on farms and now living on a rural property.

Coupled with delicious cheese platters, good wine and lots of mingling, attendees certainly had a lovely night.

‘Duck House’ was on show until Monday, 15 September, but there are plenty of other upcoming exhibitions at the Art Gallery on Ovens which may pique your interest.

Visit https://www.artgalleryonovens.com/exhibitions for more information.

TALES FROM A LIFE: Rod Halsted’s visit to the Wangaratta Library will see him discuss his recently-released book, ‘Take My Advice, I’m Not Using It’.

Listen in to Rod’s advice

CREATIVE FORCES: Cara Dosser and Alex Ryan (exhibition artists).

KINSHIP: Ilona Brown (Cara’s sister) and partner John Brown with John Ryan (Alex’s dad).

PHOTOS: Grace Fredsberg

Kerrilyn Arendt and Vicki Dosser (Cara’s mum).

IN ADMIRATION: William Ryan (Alex’s brother) and Laura Gundrill were pleased to see this collection come to life in the gallery.

IMPRESSED: Rod MacGregor and partner Meg Ryan (Alex’s sister), plus Lincoln Skinner (friend of Alex).

Albury author Rod Halsted will be at the Wangaratta Library on Thursday, 2 October to discuss his book, ‘Take My Advice, I’m Not Using It’.

An evening presented in collaboration with Booktique, the author talk will run from 6pm at the Docker Street library.

Rod will be in conversation with Geoff Romero about his wild life - from drugs to jail to pubs, nickel mining and patisserie management - before building a million-dollar pressure-washing business 25 years ago.

This is the laugh-out-loud story of Rod’s rollercoaster life from penthouse to the slammer, and how he finally found his way back to sanity.

To book your place, visit https://events.humanitix.com/ meet-the-author-rod-halsted

Sister act to take opposite sides in B grade grand final Friday, 18 September 2015

By CAITLIN SARTORI Two sisters, two teams, one grand final.

For Monique and Simone Gannon, tomorrow’s Ovens and King B grade grand final will have much more on the line than a premiership trophy.

Simone is set to line up in defence for King Valley, while at the other end of the court, older sister Monique is likely to take the court in wing defence for Glenrowan.

It is the first time both Monique and Simone will take the court in a grand final and the latter joked the

10 years ago family wouldn’t know who to barrack for with ties to both clubs.

Their dad, John Gannon, coached Glenrowan in the early 2000s and 2012 while he spent a year coaching King Valley’s senior side in 2007.

The duo started playing netball in primary school and agreed they had fond memories as youngsters

spending Saturdays watching Wangaratta Magpies football when John coached there.

“I’m very happy but there’s definitely mixed emotions, we both want to win but it’ll be devastating for the one who loses,” Simone said.

“Nique first got me playing in the Ovens King when she was at Rutherglen, we both played there together.”

Monique played netball at Glenrowan from 1997 to ’00 and joined Simone and John at King Valley in 2007.

Simone has spent the past two years with the Roos while Monique joined the Kelly Tigers for the last eight games of the home and away season

after having baby girl Reese earlier in the year.

Making the day even bigger, Monique’s partner Chris Sussyer will line up in Glenrowan’s senior grand final.

While the Roos are arguably favourite heading into the match after finishing top of the ladder, the Kelly Tigers will go in underdogs after effectively coming from outside of the top six in the last round to initially secure a finals spot.

And it hasn’t stopped the duo trying to suss out opposing tactics in the lead up with a friendly family rivalry thrown into the mix.

FAMILY BANTER: Sisters Simone and Monique Gannon will line up for King Valley and Glenrowan respectively in tomorrow’s Ovens and King B grade grand final.

PHOTO: Marc Bongers

THE CHRONICLE, Friday, September 19, 2025 - Page 17

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NORTH EAST NATURALLY

ANOTHER SPRING DAY, ANOTHER SPRING MIGRANT

By IAN DAVIDSON and CHRIS TZAROS

SPRING RESIDENTS: Seen up close, the Shining Bronze-cuckoo is a very handsome and striking bird.

PHOTO: Chris Tzaros (Birds Bush and Beyond)

It is characteristic behaviour of cuckoos to patiently sit and wait while In keeping a local nature scanning nearby vegetation diary and coming up with for any signs of caterpillar subjects for this column, it’s a activity. bit hard to go past the arrival typically quite shy and rather Upon seeing a prey item, of our spring migratory birds hard to see. they pounce on it from above As the breeding season at the moment. and immediately bash it on approaches, males can sing We have featured a few of the ground, a nearby rock or persistently from a favourite these in recent weeks and branch, to kill the caterpillar perch, day and night, are likely to continue on this quickly before potentially especially on moonlit nights. being stung (by species theme as the candidates Their call is a plaintive, keep rolling in. species such as Cup Moth This week, we have noticed mournful whistle, similar to Caterpillars). the arrival of Shining Bronze- their relative the Horsfield’s Again, like all cuckoos, Bronze-cuckoos, yet there cuckoos in our region.

Shining Bronze-cuckoos are are key differences between This species occurs in nest parasites relying on a host eastern Australia and further the two that allow them to be species to rear their young. readily identified. afield into Papua New They select small insectThe call of the Horsfield’s Guinea, so some of our recent eating bird species as arrivals might have travelled Bronze-cuckoo is a their hosts, typically those descending ‘tseeeeuw, extraordinary distances to that build dome-shaped tseeeeuw’ repeated many get here. nests such as fairy-wrens, times, but they also give a Most years, they start to thornbills and gerygones, but high-pitched chirruping call arrive in August but it is not also some open cup-shaped as well. until September and early nesters as well, such as The main call of the October that we see our robins and honeyeaters.

Shining Bronze-cuckoo is biggest numbers.

The cuckoo lays its egg in a series of high-pitched Their occurrence in any the nest and removes one of whistled notes that rise (as given year varies; in some the host’s eggs. opposed to fall) in sequence years they are particularly The cuckoo’s egg is the before ending with a common yet in others they first to hatch, after which it are scarce, perhaps choosing descending note. instinctively forces the other As with all cuckoos, bronze- eggs and chicks out of the nest. to visit a completely different cuckoos are insect eaters and region.

The cuckoo chick then they feed primarily feed on Upon their arrival, they receives the sole attention give their very distinctive and hairy caterpillars gleaned from and care of its ‘foster parents’ the ground, from grasses and at times monotonous calls, until it leaves the nest and for herbs, and shrub and tree which is often the best way a period thereafter until it is foliage. to locate them, as they are independent.

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Page 18 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, September 19, 2025

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Building intergenerational connections

Residents at St John’s Wangaratta have recently enjoyed being part of an intergenerational program with students from Greta Valley Primary School.

Over their weeks together, the residents and students have done everything from playing games and tackling electronics challenges to having fun with puppies, and enjoying a lunch of fish and chips.

ert work

Tom Lamb • Phyllis Varcoe and together.

• Lindsay Humphry and Doogal Pollard.

• Sue Platten, Mitchell McGee, Joy Sait, Jonothon Holmes-Brown and Hazel Watt.

• Joyce Ryan, Hunter Pollard and Ann Chellew.

PHOTOS: Simone Kerwin • Kara Barr and Wyn Airey.

• Alex Lambert, Ian Elliott and Sophie Clancy.

• Charlie Bevan and Gwen Plum.

• Audrey Slater and Orlando Orr.

Kitty Flanagan adds third show in Wangaratta Comedian Kitty Flanagan has added a third date to her tour visiting the Wangaratta Performing Arts and Convention Centre in November.

The award-winning star of Fisk, Utopia and Have You Been Paying Attention? will be performing her new stand-up show which asks all the big questions, like were we smarter before social media, and has your call ever been used for training purposes?

While the first show on Wednesday, 5 November has sold out, limited seats are available for Thursday, 6 November, with a new show added on Friday, 7 November at 8pm, and tickets are available from the box office or by visiting wpacc.com.au.

Object and identity explored by artist Jan Donaldson Contemporary jewellery and small sculptures by Jan Donaldson are currently featured in the Benalla Art Gallery shop, in an exhibition titled Objects of Being.

The exhibition explores identity through artifacts.

Using form, image, and symbol, the works investigate the intimate and often uncanny relationship between object and self.

Drawing on the theatricality of dolls, puppetry and masks, the works engage with beauty, illusion and the human condition.

The artist explains her work is inspired by “the relationships between artifacts and identity, and explores objects intimately linked

to identity… alluding to the drama and folly of human existence.”

Each piece is a narrative, blending the emotional with the symbolic to offer a compelling reflection on identity, desire and the roles we inhabit.

Jan Donaldson’s studio practice is based in Shepparton.

She studied at RMIT University in Melbourne and holds a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Fine Art, a Master of Art (Fine Art) Degree, and a Diploma of Fine Art in Gold and Silversmithing.

Jan exhibits regularly and her work ranges in scale from jewellery to large sculptural works.

She is known for her use of the

figure and text, as well as for her research into the relationships between objects and identity.

Jan has been lecturing for over 30 years in regional Victoria and Melbourne, is a former president of the Jewellers and Metalsmiths Group of Australia (JMGA) Vic and past editor of Lemel Magazine, the quarterly journal of the JMGA. She has been an artist in residence and workshop instructor at numerous schools, universities, community groups, arts organizations and galleries, and is a former gallery director with extensive experience working on community arts projects.

Benalla Art Gallery director, Eric

Nash, said Jan Donaldson’s practice is prolific, and deeply personal with a universal resonance.

“It’s a privilege to display these works at Benalla Art Gallery,” he said.

Jan Donaldson: Objects of Being continues until 28 September with all works available to purchase.

STATE OF BEING: The exhibition includes pieces such as Jan DONALDSON, The Poetry of Voice I, Brooch Cast pewter, Brass, 925 Silver, 18ct Gold, 23ct Gold Leaf, Turquoise, Paua Shell, Cotton, Linen fabric, Felt, Found objects – vintage tin, recycled ivory bead, brass switch, kilt pin 25 x 8 x 3cm.

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Sport North East works with local government, clubs and the community to enhance and increase participation of community sport and recreation across the North East of Victoria.

email: sportnortheast@thecentre.vic.edu.au Sport North East is a division of The Centre for Continuing Education The Centre for Continuing Education, Inc. Reg No. A0001858K | A Child Safe Organisation | TOID 4172

THE CHRONICLE, Friday, September 19, 2025 - Page 19

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SENIOR FOOTBALL

PAGES 19-21

THIRDS FOOTBALL

RESERVES FOOTBALL

PAGE 22

Stage is set for O&M’s biggest day

PAGE 27

NETBALL REVIEWS

PAGES 28-30

SOUVENIR PREVIEW The Chronicle: Friday, 19 September, 2025

SUNDAY, 21 SEPTEMBER LAVINGTON SPORTS GROUND

O&M FOOTBALL

BY NATHAN DE VRIES ndevries@ nemedia.com.au

Forget about Christmas - the most wonderful time of the year is right now.

After months and months of hard work, heartbreak, jubilant triumph, blood, sweat and tears, it’s finally here – it’s time for the Ovens and Murray Football Netball League grand final.

The biggest show in country sport - as it’s being touted by the league - raises the curtain on Sunday, 21 September at the picturesque Lavington Sports Ground, with eight scorching clashes set to be played.

With nothing less than eternal glory on the line, and their entire seasons having led to this very weekend, it’s understandably a massive occasion for all involved.

It’s an action-packed day across football and netball, and it all starts bright and early from 8.45am, with Wodonga Raiders taking on Myrtleford in a repeat of last year’s cup clash.

For those locally-minded fans, the first team in action will be Wangaratta Magpies’ thirds, who take to the park at 9am against Lavington.

The action keeps rolling on, with the Wangaratta Rovers 17 and under netballers taking on Raiders on the netball court from 10.15am aiming to go one better than last year’s runner-up.

From then on, the netball court doesn’t feature much for

PUTTING THE OVENS BACK INTO THE OVENS AND MURRAY: THERE WILL BE TWO ALL WANGARATTA GRAND FINALS THIS WEEKEND, WHEN THE C GRADE NETBALL AND SENIOR FOOTBALL PREMIERSHIPS ARE CONTESTED AT LAVINGTON. PHOTOS: MARC BONGERS

Wangaratta sports enthusiasts, with the A grade match between Raiders and Yarrawonga from 12.15pm, and Yarrawonga taking on North Albury in B grade at 1.45pm.

The intensity reaches a fever pitch at 3.15pm, with a C grade Wangaratta vs Rovers derby showdown a perfect finale to the day’s netball proceedings, with the Magpies looking to

make it two in two years.

The football action is sure to keep punters entertained – after the thirds match, it’s the Rovers’ turn to fight for glory, with the Hawks’ reserves taking on the Panthers from 11.30am.

For local supporters, the bigticket item is the senior football grand final, a derby grand final for the most coveted cup in the land

for the first time in almost 50 years.

Reigning premiers Wangaratta Rovers will go in as favourites against Wangaratta Magpies from 3.15pm, with the premiership cup – and bragging rights over their oldest rival – on the line.

On the official side of things, former Brock Burrum Saint, Lavington Panther, and current Melbourne Demon Aidan

Johnson has been announced as this year’s Grand Final Day Ambassador, with Craig Willis as ground announcer to oversee all on-field cup and medal presentations once more.

Gates open at Lavington Sports Ground from 7.30am - a reminder the event is strictly no pets, no BYO alcohol, no glass containers, and no vaping or smoking inside the venue.

Best of luck to the U17’s Girls Netball, C Grade Netball, Reserves & Senior Men’s Football teams playing off in the O&M Grand Finals this weekend

WE ARE WANG ROVERS!!!

74 Murphy Street, Wangaratta | (03) 5721 5330 | admin@afonso.com.au

Page 20 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, September 19, 2025

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2025 GRAND FINAL - SENIORS Rovers determined to build a dynasty O&M FOOTBALL

BY NATHAN DE VRIES ndevries@ nemedia.com.au

A

Wangaratta derby to decide the senior football premiers of the Ovens and Murray – it’s so perfectly scripted, it should be up for an Oscar.

The season comes to a head this Sunday when Rovers take on Magpies at the Lavington Sports Ground from 2.30pm in what has the makings of an all-time classic.

For the brown and gold, it presents a chance to secure back-to-back flags for the first time since 1993-’94, and there are plenty of reasons why they could actually pull it off.

The Rovers have been seen as the benchmark of the competition all year, and for good reason.

After doing the deed in the last match of 2024, the Rovers recovered well from their opening round loss, stringing together a six-match winning streak before tasting defeat again.

They haven’t always put teams to the sword, but they’ve always done enough to get the job done.

Rovers coach Sam Murray said his side has been putting the work in to show the 2024 flag wasn’t a flash in the pan, but the start of a dynasty.

“It’s been a long time since this club had success and even longer since they’ve had sustained success,” he said.

“That was the Rovers of old, when they won premierships back in the day they were able to stay consistent and stay at the top for a long period of time.

“We’re trying to create our own history with that. It’s exciting, we’ve worked really hard to get here, nothing’s come lightly.

“We’ve spent a lot of time getting ourselves in the right position, training and working really hard, and it’s a credit to the boys, but now it’s time this weekend to go one more.

“It’s obviously a day we’ve had a little bit of experience with now through our efforts last year, so

king seeing guys t the ourt in lso o untry

SOAR TO THE FLAG: Rovers co-captain Tom Boyd (right) and gun Brodie Filo will be key factors in the Rovers lifting the premiership cup once again.

PHOTO: Marc Bongers

we’re looking forward to getting to do it again.”

They’ve certainly got the talent to get the job done – Murray is arguably the best player in the competition, averaging 30 disposals, seven marks and five inside 50s a game just by himself.

Throw in the damaging ruckforward combo of Ed Dayman and Will Christie, midfield ball magnet Charlie Thompson, the versatile Nathan Cooper, Rising Star Noah Scholte, and newly-minted Morris Medallist Lochie O’Brien, and the list is starting to wander into superlative territory.

and approach the game, so it’s just about being able to compound and get that better.

“The time that we’ve been able to spend in working on our game has allowed us to essentially become better at it over a longer period.”

Murray said the match would be their most difficult challenge all year, with the derby stage and the grand final coinciding perfectly.

“I don’t think Wangaratta have overachieved at all, I think they’ve achieved right to where they are,” he said.

“They’re a good side, they’ve

got good depth, they’ve got great leaders and some game-winners, so we’ve got to be at our best on Sunday and make sure we’re able to compete right to the very end.

“The derby in itself has that extra weight, but our boys have really enjoyed and thrived off the challenge over the last few years, we’ve been able to get ourselves on the right side of the ledger more often than not, but there’s no doubt Magpies are going to come with a really strong brand.

“We respect them a lot, and we’re looking forward to having that battle.”

FIRST HOME GAME OF 2022 GOOD FRIDAY

Best of luck to our Seniors & WANGARATTA ROVERS VS RAIDERS Reserves Footballers Join us on Friday 15th April for ourand our first home game of 2022.

C Grade & U17 Netballers in Gates open at 9am this grand Footy start times: U18s weekends 10am RESERVES 12pm SENIORS 2pm finals!

us 22.

ased mApp, enswear,

The depth of talent in the brown and gold is almost oppressive in its elite-ness – it will take something miraculous to deny them the flag.

“We’ve obviously recruited two really key important players for us in Nathan Cooper and Charlie Thompson, who have added some really important depth in certain areas of our game where we needed a little bit more profile,” Murray said.

“We’ve continued to build on the really good work we did last year, we’re really comfortable with our style and the way in which we play

GO ROVERS!

Netball start times: U17s 9.30am C GRADE 11am Join us on Socials

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THE CHRONICLE, Friday, September 19, 2025 - Page 21

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2025 GRAND FINAL - SENIORS

Magpies plot regicide in grand final coup O&M FOOTBALL

BY NATHAN DE VRIES ndevries@ nemedia.com.au

Y

ou come at the king, you best not miss.

Wangaratta will enter Sunday’s grand final as the underdogs, aiming to deny rivals Rovers back-to-back senior premierships for the first time since the 1990s – there’s sure to be plenty of feeling in this one.

Punters may have written them off at times, or at least stretched the odds so long they were an outside chance to even make finals, but Wangaratta is an insanely good team, a fact they’ve proven time and again.

Their road to the final started back in April, in a derby opening round win over the recently crowned Rovers, signalling their intent to challenge for the title once again.

The Magpies won five of their first seven games, including statement wins against the resurgent Wodonga and North Albury.

While they did suffer some losses, they were never down for long, and weathered a tough late draw of three losses on the trot to still qualify for finals.

From there, the Magpies proved their class, coming up with the goods against North Albury, Lavington (thanks to an after the siren goal which brought the crowd to their feet), and even against Myrtleford, who they hadn’t defeated all season.

In his first year at Norm Minns Oval, Magpies coach Jason Heatley said the rollercoaster season had them in the best possible state to challenge for the crown.

“It’s vindication of the journey that we set ourselves on in the back end of September-October last year,” he said.

“The club’s been extremely supportive, and the history of the Maggies over the last eight or 10 years has been around turning up and giving yourselves opportunities to play in games like this.

“It’s good to look on both sides of

BRING IT ON: Magpies co-captain Jackson Clarke will lead his men onto the turf at Lavington for the biggest match of their season. PHOTO: Marc Bongers

the fence throughout the course of the year, that’s why footy seasons in some sense become a marathon.

“You get growth out of that, you get growth out of winning, you get growth out of losing, adversity and injury – each one of our guys can tell a story outside of footy, and I think that’s the most important thing.”

There are so many stars on the park for the Magpies, of all ages, from the dependable Michael Bordignon and Cam Barrett, to the new wave of emerging talent like Max Bihun and Blake Newton.

Xavier Laverty is reliable in front of goal, Alex Federico is one

of the slickest ball-users in the competition, and big Chris Knowles is putting together a courageous and dominant finals series.

But it’s the group’s team-first mentality which has seen them win through to the biggest game of the season.

“We don’t compromise on anything else but team first,” Heatley said.

“Our job is to bring it all together with everyone playing their part.

“We don’t need any stars, we just need contributors.”

Looking ahead to Sunday’s match, Heatley said the battle in

the guts would go a long way in determining the 2025 premiers.

“I think the game will be won around the midfield,” he said.

“If you look at all of the finals games and largely throughout the course of the year, I think the side who gets more looks wins, to put it really simply.

“It’s certainly one of our key strengths, it’s certainly one of Rovers’ key strengths.

“They have some real top-end talent that aids their journey and progression, so there are a lot of things that we’re looking at, but we have supreme confidence in our group as well.

“Our list, there’s no question it’s started to get healthy, and for it to get healthy, we needed the guys to go through situations like this in preparation.

“We’ll put an exceptional side on the field – there’s a lot to play out, but we’re in a good space.

“It’s obviously been a tough time in this neck of the woods, there’s been a lot happening, and I just think for the Wangaratta community to embrace two great footy clubs who have a lot of history and a lot of passion, but more importantly have a lot of respect for each other when you really break it down.”

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Page 22 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, September 19, 2025

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2025 GRAND FINAL - THIRDS LEADING FROM THE FRONT: WANGARATTA THIRDS CO-CAPTAINS CHARLIE KERWIN (LEFT) AND JOHN BLAKE WILL BE LEADING THEIR SIDE OUT AGAINST THE HOMETOWN LAVINGTON PANTHERS ON SUNDAY MORNING. PHOTO: MARC BONGERS

Young ‘Pies ready to embrace the moment

E

mbrace the moment.

That’s been the message from Wangaratta thirds coach Chris Knowles to his young Magpie troops as they look to be the first of Wangaratta’s premiership hopefuls to be lifting the cup at Lavington Sportsground on Sunday.

Just like Knowles’ senior counterparts, the Magpies thirds have hit their straps when it’s mattered most and stormed into the grand final on the back of a six-game win streak and a big win against their previously undefeated crosstown rivals on home turf a fortnight ago.

The Magpies used the week off to put their future prospects to the test and held a scratch match at the Wangaratta Showgrounds last Saturday morning.

Knowles said his team were

During the week Owain Boyle saw the rewards of a terrific season through the midfield with

BY BAILEY a fourth placed finish in the league ZIMMERMANN best and fairest count on Monday bzimmermann@ night and will be spearheading the nemedia.com.au Magpies engine room once again.

He has been well supported feeling fresh and pumped to be throughout the year by many running out in front of thousands different contributors including against Lavington, and he the likes of Angus Jayet, Will encouraged his team to take in Peterson and ruckmen Cooper all the highs and lows in chasing Newton and Hamish Laverty. premiership glory.

But Knowles said it has taken far “A lot of people like to say grand more than the one contributor to finals are just another game of have taken the team this far, crediting footy, it’s not, it does carry a bit of his side’s maturity throughout the extra weight and all of your nerves year as the driving force behind their and excitement are good if you late season purple patch. use them in the right way,” he said.

“We’ve just talked about the whole “That’s what we’ve been time clicking at the right time of speaking about over the last year and using losses as learning couple of weeks and using our points and they’ve just done that emotions to our advantage.” tremendously well,” he said.

O&M FOOTBALL

“We’ve always spoken about needing 22 blokes to contribute come finals time and it’s to the boys credit.

“They’ve had the right mindset coming into these games and even the last few games of the regular season as well.”

Wangaratta and Lavington have played a trilogy of thrillers this season, including Wangaratta’s stirring comeback win in the qualifying final a few weeks ago.

The ‘Pies were down by as much as 21 points in the last quarter before storming home to win by just over a goal.

The Panthers boast plenty of star power with the likes of newly crowned Leo Dean medalist Cooper Hall and Riley Costello through the midfield.

Lavington were held goalless in the opening half of the

preliminary final, but the Panthers ran the Rovers off the ground to sneak home by two points and earn their chance at a premiership.

Knowles said the battle on Sunday would most likely be won in the midfield as he looked to his side’s depth as the key to their success.

“Their top six or seven players are really good thirds footballers and will be really good seniors footballers over the next couple of years,” he said.

“We feel if we are able to shut them down, our next 15 blokes will be able to get the job done for us.

“It’s going to be won or lost in the midfield, they’ve got a really good setup, but if we get on top and we win the territory battle it starves them of opportunity.”

First bounce of the thirds will take place at 9am.

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THE CHRONICLE, Friday, September 19, 2025 - Page 27

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2025 GRAND FINAL - RESERVES

Full-circle moment for reserves coaches O&M FOOTBALL

LET’S GO: WANGARATTA ROVERS RESERVES CAPTAIN KYLE SMITH AND CO-COACH LUKE PETERS ARE GEARING UP FOR THE HAWKS’ CLASH WITH LAVINGTON ON SUNDAY. PHOTO: MARC BONGERS

BY SIMONE KERWIN skerwin@ nemedia.com.au

W

hen Wangaratta Rovers reserves won their last flag, Darcy Booth and Luke Peters were teenage members of the premiership side.

Eighteen years on from that 68-point victory over Albury, which came after grand final losses in the two previous seasons, the pair are preparing for the Hawks’ latest tilt at the reserves title - this time as co-coaches.

“It’s really come full-circle,” Booth said in the lead-up to Sunday’s clash with minor premier Lavington, which trounced Myrtleford by 90 points in last week’s preliminary final.

The Booth-Peters co-coaching arrangement had its origins at the Findlay Oval in 2022, and they took the Hawks’ reserves to a grand final meeting with Yarrawonga that year, before stepping aside to concentrate on playing.

Now back sharing the role, they’ve guided the current crop of reserves to within a win of premiership glory.

In the tradition of seconds footy, this year’s Hawks combination has included a number of graduates from the successful Rovers thirds program, alongside a smattering of experienced players including Mitch Booth and captain Nic Henderson - the latter having suffered two knee injuries which ruled him out - and the two coaches taking the fields at various stages.

The Hawks come up against

a Lavington side playing on its home deck on Sunday, but having carved themselves a straight path to the grand final including a 22-point semi-final win over this week’s opponent, they know they can match the Panthers.

“Lavi are a very good side, and have gotten stronger since our last match-up, with senior players like Nic Sedgwick and Drew Beavan coming back in, but we’ve beaten them in all three of our

encounters this year,” Booth said.

“Among our prime movers will be Harry McMonigle, who is a class above in the twos, and Oscar Clelland, who won the reserves goalkicking award (at Monday’s Morris Medal presentation).”

That win made it back-to-back league goalkicking awards for Clelland, after he took out the thirds’ John Longmire Medal in 2024.

“We’ve also got Max Cullen in

the ruck, Joe Allen who’s had a great year, and Sam Rourke, who’s reinvented himself as a centrehalf-forward and played some senior footy,” Booth said.

The Rovers’ Sam Comensoli was also on the leaderboard at Monday night’s medal count, finishing runner-up in the Leo Burke Medal (the league’s reserves best and fairest award) to Lavington’s Harryson Barber, who will be among the Panthers’ players to watch on Sunday, along with Sam Hargreaves and 300-game player Adam Butler.

Booth said the two sides played a very similar style of football, and he expected the game to be won in the midfield.

“We want to win it,” Booth said.

“Regardless of the result, though, it speaks to the health of the club that both the seniors and reserves are there on Sunday.

“We’ve been really fortunate to have lots of numbers this year, with a very young list across the club; a healthy list can also create problems at times telling blokes they have to miss out is probably the toughest part of the job.”

Despite the fact there may be some tough calls still to make this week, Booth said it was an exciting time for the club, offering great signs for the future.

“

Thank you to the Wangaratta Rovers for the amazing ride over the last 16 years.

Come in store 59 Reid Street, WANGARATTA Call us on 03 5757 6400

Thanks for the support and good luck to the Seniors & Reserves Football and C Grade & U17’s Girls Netball in their Grand Final this weekend.

Go Rovers!

”

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Page 28 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, September 19, 2025

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2025 GRAND FINAL - C GRADE Magpies going for back-to-back flags

“Come Sunday though, we will embrace the pressure, the build up, and the crowd and do our best

BY SHANE to walk away with that cup.”

DOUTHIE Petts said her ‘ring’ defenders, sdouthie@ Jessie Knights and Phebe Gibson nemedia.com.au Shooters in GD and GK, will have a massive Imogen Robinson job on their hands against two of Brooke Henwood (capt) the most accurate shooters in the angaratta Magpies are Georgia Clark league. on the verge of a rare Mids “They are both premiership sporting achievement, Diaz Matthews (vice-capt) players from last season’s side, and going for back-to-back flags in Taylor Boyle as a unit they work tirelessly to Ovens and Murray C grade netball.

Shel Petts give the attackers opportunity to Adding to the theatre of the Charlotte Woosnam convert ball,” she said. match is the added interest of Defenders “Lily Cairns in WD is also pivotal doing it against cross-lane rivals Jessie Knights - (assist through our defensive end, and Wangaratta Rovers. coach) when she is firing she is able to They hold a 2-1 edge on the Lily Cairns intercept and deflect balls through Hawks in season 2025 including a Phebe Gibson the midcourt. win in the most recent bout in the Jess Henry “In our attacking end, Taylor qualifying final, but coach Rachelle Maggie Walker Boyle in WA/C provides us a ‘Shel’ Petts said past history was DEFENDING CHAMPIONS: Magpies C grade captain Brooke Henwood (left) Ruby Croucher- injured and coach Shel Petts.

PHOTO: Marc Bongers beautiful mix of stability and only a guide not a result in itself. consistency but is also hard to the “Our focus has been on getting the basics right, working through been key for us given we had the finals are hard to come by.” a great day of netball viewing and ball and has pinpoint feeds.

“Imogen Robinson in GS has our usual style of play and building week off.

Petts said playing in a grand banter,” she said on some of our combinations,” “We need to make sure we start final comes with a huge amount “To have two Wangaratta teams the ability to shoot a game out Petts said. out strong as we don’t want to of pressure and build up, and playing off in a netball grand final, and gives the players around her so much confidence with her “We match up quite well against be playing catch up like we did although she would like to say as well as the seniors, and then shooting accuracy.

Rovers across the board, and I feel against Myrtleford. that the derby doesn’t add another to have three other sides from “Immy can be hard to stop when like we play a similar style of game.

“We are lucky to have a great layer, she confessed for many of Wang in a grand final is something she is on, and we know that she “This means we don’t have to group of girls coming along to the players out there, it absolutely we should be proud of as a will need to be at her best for us to adjust too much, but it also means train with us, and that’s been does. community. we can’t become too predictable pivotal in our ability to keep “Playing Rovers is always a “Last weekend I was in the midst get the win.”

Petts herself is in a race against in our patterns of play or how we training to a high standard, but to big day locally, and while the of the Rovers crowd, cheering that the clock to be fit for Sunday but approach them in defence. also have those encouraging words competition is fierce, there are so C grade side on to get the win, “Keeping up the intensity and of advice and reminders to enjoy many friendships and connections because I always want to see local will leave the final decision as late as matchday. working under pressure has also the experience because grand across both teams that it makes it teams doing well.

O&M NETBALL

MAGPIES C GRADE Coach: Shel Petts Team manager: Deanne Kelly

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THE CHRONICLE, Friday, September 19, 2025 - Page 29

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2025 GRAND FINAL - C GRADE

Rovers ready to take on reigning champs O&M NETBALL

WANGARATTA ROVERS C GRADE Coach: Deb Doyle

BY SHANE DOUTHIE sdouthie@ nemedia.com.au

T

here has been little to separate Wangaratta Rovers and Wangaratta Magpies in the Ovens and Murray C grade netball this season, with Magpies finishing one rung higher on the ladder in second position, just a win and a draw in front.

Since then, both sides have toppled minor premier Myrtleford to find themselves face-to-face in a highly-anticipated derby.

Rovers C grade coach Deb Doyle said the opening round loss to Magpies gave her squad a clear picture of where they needed to lift their game, and the team responded quickly, winning the next three matches in a row.

“Myrtleford have been our greatest rivals; the preliminary final was actually our first win against them this season,” Doyle said.

“Raiders were also tough competition, and through the middle of the season we strung together eight consecutive wins, which showed the players’ growing confidence and ability to work together as a team.

Late in the season the Hawks suffered another two losses, and

AIMING HIGH: Rovers C grade co-captains Tyler Cleal and Maggie Chant.

PHOTO: Marc Bongers

then a qualifying final nine-point defeat against Magpies.

“That defeat hurt, but it also sharpened our focus and reminded us of the intensity required at finals level,” Doyle said.

“Since then, the team has thrived on the challenge of bouncing back, producing some thrilling performances that have left both me and the spectators on the edge of our seats.

“It’s truly been a team effort all season.

“When I look back to where we started, I’m proud of the leaps and bounds every player has made in their own game and in how they’ve worked together as a unit.

“In defence, Sam Lyster (GK) has been outstanding.

“Together with Maggie Chant, Ella Masters and Tyler Cleal, they’ve built a formidable defensive line that has been vital to our success.

“In attack, Mia Eddington has been brilliant, consistently finding space and finishing with confidence.

Shooters Mia Eddington Holly Semmens Lauren Flynn (assist-coach) Mids Charlotte Annett Emma Kreltszheim Lily Shanley Defence Ella Masters Tyler Cleal (co-capt) Maggie Chant (co-capt) Sam Lyster Extended bench to be confirmed: Lily Lyster Freya Chant Lily Palmer

“Holly Semmens has added real strength in the shooting circle, combining well with Lauren Flynn to keep the scoreboard ticking over.

Doyle said, through the midcourt, Lily Shanley has taken her game to a new level.

“She’s stepped up from being a supportive centre to becoming our key play, providing a solid link between defence and attack,” she said.

“Charlotte Annett (WA) and Emma Kreltszheim have rotated beautifully, and their contrasting

styles keep our play unpredictable and difficult to shut down.

“Our 17 and under players have also been significant throughout the season and on our road to finals.

“They have readily stepped into the side and played with confidence and determination.”

Doyle has experienced grand finals before during her impressive and varied netball career but this will be the first time with her home club.

“It has been a real ride,” she said “Heading into the game, my key messages to the team are simple: be confident, trust in your preparation, and enjoy the moment.

“The biggest takeaway from the season, for me, has been the importance of teamwork; not just on court, but working closely with the players and the collective coaching group.

“I’ve gained so much insight from everyone around me, players included.

“Of course, we play to win, and winning makes for a great season, but having fun along the way is just as important.

“There’s plenty of excitement around the club and the town, and I’ve encouraged the players to soak it all up and enjoy the build-up.

“On Wednesday, we trained as a full netball squad: 17s, C grade, and the wider club, with music and good vibes.

“On Friday, we’ll reset, narrow our focus, and prepare for the game ahead.”

Good Luck Rovers in the 2025 O&M Grand Final.

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

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2025 GRAND FINAL - U17s

Rovers confident of wresting 17 and under crown O&M NETBALL

WANGARATTA ROVERS 17 AND UNDER TEAM Coach: Stacey ‘Mina’ Lamb Assistant Coach: Ellie Miller Team Manager: Holly McCarthy First Aid: Amelia Sharp

BY SHANE DOUTHIE sdouthie@ nemedia.com.au

W

angaratta Rovers get one more shot at toppling Ovens and Murray 17 and under netball flag favourites Wodonga Raiders this weekend.

The two clubs have been a class above the rest of the field this season, with Raiders suffering their only defeat for the season at the hands of the Hawks, although that result was reversed in the semi-final.

Rovers coach Stacey ‘Mina’ Lamb is a seasoned finals campaigner with last year’s 17 and under runners up experience under her belt.

She coached Rovers B grade with Michelle Caruso to a grand final in 2011, another three at Milawa in the Ovens and King, and last year’s Rovers grand final side, and is keen to go one better this year.

“To play in a grand final with your mates for this fabulous club is a dream come true,” Lamb said.

“We have prepared all year for this and now it’s time to go out there and play the game we love with our friends for the club we love.

ONE STEP FURTHER: Rovers 17 and under representatives (from left) Lily Palmer, coach Mina Lamb, Anne Harding (captain) and Sadie Pellegrino.

PHOTO: Marc Bongers

“We go into this grand final with a full and fit squad.

“We have had a tough year riddled with injuries and players in and out, but the pieces of the puzzle have come together at the right time of the year.

“With the support of assistant coach Ellie Miller, we have been building for this game all year.”

Lamb said the win over Raiders this season was proof enough they are in with a fighting chance.

“We are playing some high

quality netball,” she said.

“Lily Lyster consistently shoots bulk goals and is beautifully supported by Sophia Pasquali and Freya Chant.

“As a team we have shot the most goals for the year, over 1000.

“We have fit and fast mid-court rotations with Sadie Pellegrino, Elle Gibson and Brooke Del Mastro.

“Our defensive unit is strong and relentless with league Best and Fairest winner, goal keeper

Shooters Sophia Pasquali Lily Lyster Freya Chant Mids Sadie Pellegrino Elle Gibson Brooke Del Mastro Defence Annie Harding (capt) Lainey Draper Lily Palmer Bench Issy Pizzini Arabella Cavicchiolo

Lily Palmer, captain Annie Harding and ball winner Lainey Draper.

“We also have depth on the bench with Issy Pizzini and Arabella Cavicchiolo benching for us from the 15 and under team.”

Lamb said she expected there will be an element of nerves coming into the game, but she hoped her squad would embrace it and really enjoy the day.

“The crowd will be big and loud and I know that we will give it our

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best shot as a team and as a club,” she said.

“But it’s got to be fun, we spend a lot of time playing and coaching netball as a hobby so you have to enjoy it.

“It’s fun when you are learning, working hard and having success with a group of people that support you.

“When the scores were level in the prelim final on Sunday, I knew as a team we were good enough to win.

“I got all the girls to stop, come in close, take a breath and look each other in the eye.

“The message was that we got to this point in the season because we are a good team.

“Look at each other and know that we trust each other and we can finish off this game.

“I really hope they take this trust and belief into Sunday’s game because they can do it.”

Lamb described the build-up this week as “awesome”.

“It’s the talk in the town and around the club, and is so exciting,” she said.

“But the expectations and the pressure needs to be acknowledged and enjoyed.

“We are the two best teams that get to play the last game of the year.

“Everyone playing on grand final day is the envy of the league.”

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THE CHRONICLE, Friday, September 19, 2025 - Page 31

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FAMILY TIME: Mick and Morgan Hope with Ella and Christian McGauran, were among those to attend the Father’s Day breakfast at Wangaratta Primary School.

Father’s Day breakfast

UNDER COVER: Carra students Bonnie Nottingham and Matilda Wilson (with education support William Styles) enjoy a parachute activity on their fourth transition day.

Flying high

Wangaratta Primary School

Students and families enjoyed a special Father’s Day breakfast, sharing delicious bacon and egg rolls together.

The morning created a wonderful opportunity for students to celebrate and thank their dads and special

Carraragarmungee Primary School

father figures, strengthening community connections and making cherished memories before the school day began.

Students enjoyed a parachute believers in getting kids ready for school early. activity on the school’s fourth It is yet another one of those transition day for the year. things that doesn’t change with The staff team are big

kids - no matter how much time goes by, they will always get a kick out of simple things, like running under a parachute.

LIFE SKILLS: APPIN PARK YEAR 6 STUDENT JOANA ROGERS PRACTISED HER COMPRESSION SKILLS ON “FRANK”.

WINNING TEAM: James Turner, Isaac Turner and David Turner showed their true colours during the Father’s Day event at CCW.

Good sports for Father’s Day Cathedral College Wangaratta It was a huge success, bringing together families for fun and friendship.

Thanks go to everyone who joined in and helped make the day so memorable.

1

Appin Park Primary School Year 3 to 6 students had the opportunity to further develop their basic first aid skills when participating in the St John’s First Aid Schools Program.

All classes looked at the “DRSAB” with the senior classes also working on the “C” component Compressions.

Understanding the Dangers that they may be exposed to and keeping themselves safe was the first topic of discussion, before discussing

If you were using your zygomaticus major muscle, which of the following would you probably be doing? Is it a) typing, b) smiling, c) digesting or d) standing on tip-toe?

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Response and Sending for help, checking the Airways and Breathing.

All students engaged with great enthusiasm and showed some recall of previously learned information.

The school considers continuing to grow their knowledge around basic first aid is important, not only for themselves, but potentially for family and friends and others within our community.

Having some skills when needed could be lifesaving.

Which Australian bird is the largest member of the kingfisher family?

GOOD SPORTS: On the podium in the U7 Girls Long Jump were (first) Sophie Martin, (second) Hannah Bagley, and (equal third) Millie Stewart and Isla Snowdon.

House Athletics action

Yarrunga Primary School The practise students did prior to House Athletics Day certainly paid off, with everyone participating to the very best of their ability.

Even more pleasing than the athletic performances was the way students supported each other, assisted by Yarrunga

3

People with gelotophobia are afraid of what?

Is it a) brainfreeze, b) clowns, c) being laughed at or d) wheat?

QUIZ ANSWERS: 1. b) The zygomaticus major muscle is in your cheeks and pulls the corners of your mouth up when you smile. 2. The laughing kookaburra is the largest member of the kingfisher family. 3. c) Gelotophobia is the fear of being laughed at. 4. a) Jupiter’s largest moon is Ganymede. Also, all the other moons in the list orbit different planets. 5. Yes, rats laugh when they’re playing and when they are tickled by humans. However, their laughter is too high pitch for most humans to hear.

The college’s Father’s Day Breakfast and Sports Colours Day was a fantastic morning filled with games, great food and even better company.

First Aid in schools

staff and volunteers from Wangaratta High School.

The students greatly appreciated the cheering from the sidelines from the many members of the school community who attended the event at the Bill Eaton Athletic Complex.

4

What is Jupiter’s largest moon? Is it a) Ganymede, b) Phobos, c) Triton or d) Charon?

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

5

Can rats laugh?

Page 32 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, September 19, 2025

wangarattachronicle.com.au

REGIONAL NEWS

Benalla Art Gallery to mark 50 years and next chapter

Benalla Art Gallery will mark its 50th year in its iconic building with a community celebration on the evening of Thursday, 25 September.

The organisation was established in 1968 with considerable community backing and significant donors, enabling the appointment of noted architects Philip Sargeant and Colin Munro to design the purpose-built Benalla Art Gallery.

Located between the banks of Lake Benalla and the Benalla Botanical Gardens, the new gallery opened in 1975 and has since provided the foundation of Benalla’s artistic and creative culture.

Benalla Art Gallery now welcomes the community to gather and celebrate the milestone anniversary, while looking forward to the next 50 years as it prepares to embark on its stage one redevelopment designed

by Williams Boag architects.

Benalla Rural City Mayor Cr Bernie Hearn said Benalla Art Gallery has been a special part of the community for 50 years.

Gallery director Eric Nash said the event is a way to honour the past and acknowledge and pay tribute to supporters, while looking forward to the next exciting chapter.

“With the gallery temporarily closing from 29 September to enable the stage one redevelopment, we’re confident it will continue to bring many more years of enjoyment to residents and visitors,” he said.

The celebration will feature music, a community drawing activity, and a postcard time capsule for attendees to share their favourite memory from the gallery’s first 50 years.

It takes place from 6pm to 8pm and RSVP is essential by GRAND OPENING: Laurence Ledger MBE made a speech at the opening of the new Benalla contacting 5760 2619 or gal- Art Gallery building on 18 April 1975, with the gallery now celebrating its 50th year. lery@benalla.vic.gov.au.

PHOTO: Courtesy Sue Clark

Huge demand for Bright’s largest residential development in years

By JEFF ZEUSCHNER Public demand to be part of Bright’s largest residential development in decades is showing no signs of slowing, with Bright Valley Development revealing it has completely sold out the 78 lots of stages one and two, and has more than 2200 people on the waiting list for future stages.

Stage three of the development - comprising a 53 lot subdivision on 2.25 hectares of land adjoining the Great Alpine Road on the western entrance to town - received planning approval at last week’s Alpine Shire Council meeting.

All councillors, except Cr Jean-Pierre Ronco who abstained from voting, endorsed the next stage which will see roughly 17 lots per hectare, ranging from 198sqm to over 632sqm, with

the majority (89 per cent) between 300sqm and 600sqm.

Developer Will Deague, who attended the council meeting, said he expected to start selling stage three lots in the second quarter of next year.

He said demand was incredible, with 2200 people on the waiting list from all over Victoria, NSW and Canberra.

Mr Deague said the mix of sales in stages one and two had been very pleasing, reflecting the desire for a large percentage of owner/occupiers.

“It’s been 60/40 split of owner/occupiers and investors, and of the investors a lot plan to use them as holiday houses and lease them out when they are not there, or plan on retiring there,” he said.

“A lot of owners, if not all of them, have gone for a lot of the extras, like stone work on the outside of the houses.

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MOVING AHEAD: Two large trees on the Great Alpine Road were removed earlier this month to facilitate intersection access to Bright Valley Development. PHOTO: Phoebe Morgan “About 20 per cent of sales are to existing residents of Bright looking at more downsizing than upsizing.”

Mr Deague said all civil works on the development are expected to be completed by the end of this year, and they will hopefully pour the first slab in late January or February next year, with the first house

settling in July next year.

He said they are planning on smaller, more affordable products for stage four to meet buyer demand, as there “is not as much demand for $2m two storey houses, but probably more the three bedroom $1.25m houses”.

He said permits for stage

four of the seven stage development were likely to be lodged with council early next year, with two of the remaining stages on the lower section of land and two more stages on the upper tier, where larger lot sizes will be offered.

Mr Deague said he anticipated all seven stages would happen within another five years.

“The biggest issue ahead of us now is North East Water only have enough sewage capacity for 135 connections,” he said.

“They are not bringing on more capacity until 2029, so we are working with them to come up with a solution for that gap while we wait for 2029.

“We expect we’ll eat up 135 connections within the next two years.”

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Albury Wodonga Health transition to fully publicly operated cancer services by July next year Albury Wodonga Health (AWH) will transition to a publicly operated cancer inpatient and day oncology model at the Albury Wodonga Regional Cancer Centre (AWRCC) on 1 July 2026.

The AWRCC, opened in 2016, has been operated under a public-private partnership with Ramsay Health Care (RHC), which currently delivers inpatient and day oncology services to public and private patients.

AWH will begin transition planning in collaboration with RHC to support continuity of care for patients and minimise disruption for staff and service partners, with RHC to continue delivering services during the transition period.

AWH said the transition aligns with its Strengthening Cancer Services Plan and aims to ensure continued access to cancer care for the community.

Dr John Elcock, chief medical officer at AWH, said the partnership with RHC has been instrumental in providing localised cancer care to the community.

“As we transition to a publicly operated service, we remain committed to working with our excellent local medical specialists and cancer care providers to maintain the highest standards of care and research while continuing to support our patients with the best possible treatment options,” he said.

AWH said it is working with the Department of Health, Safer Care Victoria, and other relevant partners to ensure the transition is safe, coordinated and consistent with current standards of care.

Victorian Minister of Health, Mary-Anne Thomas said the transition “marks an important step in strengthening cancer care for the Albury Wodonga community – ensuring services are publicly operated, accessible and sustainable for the future”.

AWH chief executive officer, Bill Appleby, said AWH’s goal is to continue the provision of high-quality cancer services for the community into the future.

THE CHRONICLE, Friday, September 19, 2025 - Page 33

wangarattachronicle.com.au

REGIONAL NEWS

Manhunt continuing, as travel warning lifted, support offered

By JEFF ZEUSCHNER Travel restrictions to the Porepunkah area have been lifted and the Victorian government has announced a support package to help businesses, while the manhunt for armed fugitive Dezi Freeman entered its fourth week in the alpine region.

Victoria Police has lifted its advice to avoid travelling to Porepunkah, with the Great Alpine Road open all the way through Porepunkah to Bright.

Mount Buffalo National Park remains closed to the public and Victoria Police

has advised its search for Freeman continues, and an increased police presence in and around the area remains, with police command still operating out of DEECA at Ovens.

Victorian Treasurer Jaclyn Symes on Monday announced a $2.5 million package to help support the visitor economy in Porepunkah, Bright and surrounding region, which has been severely impacted by the ongoing police operation to find the armed gunman, who remains at large after having allegedly killed two police officers and injured a third at his Rayner Track

MANHUNT: FUGITIVE DEZI FREEMAN Police advise that if you see fugitive Dezi Freeman (pictured), call 000 immediately but do not approach him.

Anyone with other information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000, submit a confidential report online at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au or visit your local police station.

For the most current advice and updates relating to this search, visit https://www.police.vic.gov.au/ porepunkah-shooting-and-searchdesmond-freeman-filby

property on 26 August.

Treasurer Symes said the government will continue to stand with the Porepunkah community and provide them “every support they need”.

“While our brave emergency services are still responding to this unthinkable crime, we know that businesses need support...this package will help the local commu-

nity right now and into the future,” she said.

Nationals’ MP for Ovens Valley, Tim McCurdy, who along with Bright Chamber of Commerce president Marcus Warner has been calling for urgent support for local businesses after weeks of “disruption and uncertainty”, said the support package offered “much-needed relief” and he urged businesses to register their interest without delay.

“This support is a step forward, but the priority now is making sure businesses act quickly to access it so the region can begin its recovery

with confidence,” Mr McCurdy said.

The package includes: • $5000 grants for eligible businesses impacted by loss of trade.

• Funding for Alpine Shire Council and the local business chamber to support community activities and events.

• Targeted tourism marketing and promotional activities to encourage visitors back to the Alpine and High Country region.

• Investment into Ride High Country Marketing Phase 2 to strengthen long-term tourism and economic recovery.

Breweries to host ‘Hops for Hope’ charity events for prostate cancer

By PHOEBE MORGAN

FRESH FALLS: The Falls Creek village was blanketed in white on Wednesday morning after fresh falls overnight.

PHOTO: Vail Resorts

FRESH SNOWFALLS AS RESORTS SET FOR FINAL FORTNIGHT

By JEFF ZEUSCHNER A dusting of fresh snow overnight Tuesday had Falls Creek and Mt Hotham alpine resorts blanketed in white on Wednesday morning, buoying expectations ahead of school holiday guests arriving this weekend.

“Our snow depth is sitting around 95cm, which is amazing for this time of year,” said Betony Pitcher, Falls Creek’s field marketing manager.

“Now’s one of the best times of the year to learn how to ski or snowboard with milder days, lateseason discounts and fantastic snow.

“There’s just a few weeks left for people to come up and enjoy our beautiful alpine environment before the season ends on Sunday, 5 October.”

Falls Creek has its inaugural September School Holiday Festival on for the final fortnight of this season and it includes kids’ workshops and

donut decorating, as well as twilight skiing and the iconic Pond Skim event.

Mt Hotham, which still has an average snow depth of a metre throughout the resort, also has plenty of discounts and deals on offer for resort entry, accommodation, lift tickets, lessons and equipment hire, through to apres refreshments and entertainment.

Both resorts have most of their lifts operating and terrain

opened, offering some of the best spring snow conditions in years.

• For the latest resort information, including snow reports, activities and spring deals, visit mthotham.com.au and skihotham.com.au; fallscreek. com.au and skifalls.com.au; and for Dinner Plain go to visitdinnerplain.com.au Don’t forget you must carry chains to the resorts and fit them when and where directed.

Myrtleford’s Alan Blair is calling on the local community to join him at King River Brewing and Bright Brewery to raise their glass and make a difference this Prostate Cancer Awareness Month.

Alan, who was diagnosed with stage three, locally advanced prostate cancer in June 2024, at the age of 53, has organised two charity events, ‘Hops for Hope’, to raise vital funds for the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia (PCFA).

The events will be held today, 19 September at King River Brewing in Whitfield from 5pm, as well as on Sunday, 28 September at the Bright Brewery from 12pm.

Mr Blair said there will be raffles, trivia and prizes up for grabs at each event to help raise vital funds for the cause.

“You can also help raise funds just by having a beer, with both venues offering a ‘Karma Keg’ where proceeds from your purchase will go to PCFA,” he said.

“Prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in Australia, with more than 26,000 men diagnosed every year. “‘Hops for Hope’ is not only about raising funds for PCFA, but also starting important conversations about prostate cancer and early detection.

“Currently only 36 per cent of men are diagnosed with prostate cancer at stage one when the disease is easiest to treat...we need to change that.

“All men over the age of 40 should be booking an appointment with their GP to talk about their testing options.”

For more information on prostate cancer visit: www.prostate.org.au or call PCFA on 1800 22 00 99.

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Haval H6GT plugs in to a new world

■ A PROMISING START: The first plug-in electric vehicle from Haval, the H6GT comes equipped with some impressive features and is worth it’s value on the whole.

limited kilometre battery pack warranty, five-year 24hr With more than 32,000 roadside assistance and fivesales in Australia, the Haval year capped price servicing H6 has never been backward through GMW’s network of dealerships. at coming forward.

And that’s not about to change anytime soon if the STYLING The H6GT AWD flies the brand’s first plug-in electric flag for Haval’s SUV range vehicle is anything to go by.

PHEVs have been slow to with a premium design lantake off, but with ballooning guage, including an expanfuel prices, climate change sive cascading radiator grille through fossil-fuel pollution, with dark finish ‘proudly’ and the ever-present driver showcasing a bold iteration albatross of ‘range anxiety’, of the brand’s logo.

A vertical layout of LED things are changing.

And the new H6GT, with its daytime running lights supbumper 35.4kWh battery, has port the vehicle’s upright gone straight to the top of the stance, while the sloping segment with an electricity- coupe-style roof, as opposed only range, with zero emis- to the H6 standard SUV sions, of up to 180km, almost square shape, bears witness twice that of its nearest rival. to the GT suffix.

Side-on, new black wheel This is backed up by a combined ICE/hybrid distance of arch cladding runs from front to rear, combining with new more than 1000 kilometres.

Lux and Ultra models share 19-inch multi-spoke black alloy wheels. the new-gen line-up.

Gone are chrome splashes Priced at $55,990 driveaway, maker GWM claims in favour of a cleaner, mod‘exhilarating performance’ ern, minimalist look.

At the rear, the full width from the Ultra PHEV via the brand’s new Hi4 Hybrid Intel- light bar has been ousted in ligent AWD, with a sprint from favour of a more contempozero to 100km/h in a nippy 4.8 rary array of angled individual taillights. seconds.

Centrally situated between The vehicle offers varied charging options from 30 to the lamps, the Haval badge 80 per cent via AC (6.6kW) has been replaced by G-W-M, or DC (48kW) in as little as 26 reflecting the move to its unified GMW brand identity. minutes.

The rear renovation introThis new flagship comes as part of a significant H6 up- duces a power tailgate to the grade inside and out, with en- H6 that can be easily opertry-level Lux variant, a two-li- ated at the push or a button, tre turbocharged front-wheel or with a kick motion beneath drive, coming to market for the bumper. $35,990 driveaway.

All are covered by GWM’s INTERIOR A 50mm increase in body seven-year unlimited new car warranty, eight-year un- length gives the cabin addBy DEREK OGDEN

AT A GLANCE MODEL LINE-UP: HAVAL H6GT PHEV ULTRA AWD 1.5 TURBO PETROL: $55,990 NOTE: Price driveaway. ed room, while a shift of the gear selector to the steering column frees up the centre console for more storage and wireless phone charger.

The steering wheel has been reworked to offer a thicker profile with indentations at the ten and two o’clock positions to improve grip and comfort on longer drives.

An automatic parking brake adds to convenience.

Premium materials and finishes to the minimalist decor features a new luxurious cream interior option, adding the personal touch to proceedings.

The changes, while small, are testament to GWM’s broader focus on the driver throughout the cabin.

INFOTAINMENT A ‘heart transplant’ for the H6 has come via the GT’s instrument layout, the centre of which lies a 14.6-inch infotainment screen powered

by GWM’s latest-generation operating system delivering faster processing speeds and more intuitive access.

The latter is debatable.

A fixture in other GWM models including the Tank series, the system supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, enabling smartphone mirroring and cablefree access to sat nav, media, and communications.

In front of the driver is a 10.25-inch high-res digital instrument cluster with new visuals already seen in Tank models displaying driving information in three key segments.

A 360-degree surround view monitor with seethrough chassis offers visibility for safe manoeuvring.

ENGINES / TRANSMISSIONS The plug-in hybrid powertrain is exclusive to the Ultra grade in all-wheel drive, coming up with a strong, refined, yet efficient performance.

The 1.5-litre unit, mated with GMW’s Dedicated Hybrid Transmission, produces 110kW and 230Nm. Complementing this are three powerful motors – two up front and one at the rear.

Integrated with the 4WD system, the latter an inde-

pendent 135kW and 232Nm, setting, which allows the the combination delivering choice between EV, EV priority and Intelligent Hybrid. more than 1000km range.

As far as power consumption is concerned, the test SAFETY Fitted with the latest active car on a motorway run reand passive safety systems, corded 18.0kWh per 100 the Haval H6GT is designed kilometres, which is acceptto look after occupants and able for a vehicle of its heft.

With the battery depleted, other road users to the best GWM suggests the hybrid of automotive ability.

Advanced technology mode will come up with 5.4 such as Intelligent Adaptive litres per 100 kilometres of Cruise Control, lane keep as- fuel use.

The test car bettered that sist, traffic sign recognition and traffic jam assist seam- with 4.9 litres of petrol per 100 kilometres. lessly support the driver.

The slick(ish) off-the-line Adding to core safety are autonomous emergency sprint (GWM suggests 4.9 braking, blind spot detection, sec to 100km/h) is subject rear cross traffic assist and to handling stresses on corners, mainly due to its midlane departure warning.

Convenience is enhanced size SUV bulk, so it’s probby auto parking assist and ably best to back off. for Ultra parking sensors all SUMMARY round.

For a first effort at a plug-in Seven airbags - two front, two side, two curtain and hybrid, the Haval H6GT Ultra one centre - cover all seat- is up with the best in perforing positions and Isofix child mance - but not in its infotainrestraints and driver fatigue ment communication with the driver. monitor cap off the cabin.

RATINGS Looks: 8 DRIVING Performance: 6 In place of a standard Safety: 7 transmission, the Haval Thirst: 6 H6GT relies on a two-speed Practicality: 7 system that predominantly Comfort: 6 powers the vehicle up to Tech: 6 around 80km/h before the Value: 8 ICE chips in, so take-off is SPECIFICATIONS (Haval all but silent, without being H6GT Ultra 1.5-litre 4-cyl turrubber ripping.

Switching into full steam bo-petrol, hybrid, AWD) is all but seamless, with the engine making itself no- STANDARD WARRANTY Seven years / unlimited ticed with only a restrained kilometres. growl.

Eight years / unlimited warA selection of drive modes is called up via the ranty battery pack.

Five years capped price touchscreen.

Close by is a power mode servicing and roadside assist.

19 - 25 SEPTEMBER | 2025

Family home truly has it all Tucked away in a peaceful court location in Wangaratta, this beautifully presented four-bedroom, two-bathroom home delivers the perfect balance of space, comfort and practicality for modern family living.

From the moment you step inside, the fresh updates set the tone – new carpet, recent paintwork and premium Smeg kitchen appliances combine to create a stylish, move-in ready interior.

Families will appreciate the flexible floorplan, with two spacious living ar-

eas offering plenty of room to spread out or come together.

The master bedroom is complete with ensuite, while the remaining bedrooms are well-proportioned, ensuring comfort for everyone.

Car accommodation is a standout, with a secure triple carport featuring a roller door, a generous double garage and additional workshop space – ideal for hobbies, storage or the home handyman.

Energy efficiency has also been f ront

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of mind, with a 9.1kW solar system, new hot water heat pump, ducted reverse cycle heating and cooling, multiple split systems and a wood fireplace ensuring year-round comfort while keeping running costs down.

Close to local amenities yet privately positioned, this home offers an easy, convenient lifestyle.

Whether upsizing, investing or seeking a property that simply ticks all the boxes, this residence is ready to welcome its next family.

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Agent

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Phone

| ( 03) 5722 2663

Price

| $ 590,000

Land

| 6 43m2 approx.

Location | 1 2 Baroona Court, Wangaratta

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BUFF250709_Wangaratta_Chronicle.indd 1

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At Your Service

Business Guide (03) 5723 0100 sales@nemedia.com.au 0427 112 267 admin@gibbspc.com gibbspc.com Gibbs Pest Control

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

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

Discover the perfect blend of comfort, style and space in this beautifully presented home, set on a generous 638m² approx. allotment in Wangaratta.

Offering a relaxed lifestyle, it’s the ideal setting for entertaining guests, enjoying family time or simply unwinding at the end of the day.

The heart of the home features a spacious kitchen and dining area, perfect for family meals and effortless entertaining.

Flowing outdoors, a private alfresco space provides ample room for BBQs, gardening or soaking up the sun in your own sanctuary.

Each of the three bedrooms has been thoughtfully designed with built-in robes and ceiling fans, combining practicality with comfort.

Ducted gas heating ensures warmth

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Agent | Garry Nash & Co Phone | 03 5722 2663 | $559,500 Price Land | 638m2 approx.

Location | 4 Lamble Court, Wangaratta through the cooler months, while reverse cycle systems in the loungeroom and master bedroom add year-round climate control.

Beautifully designed for modern living, this home offers both functionality and lifestyle appeal for the whole family.

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CHARMING BRICK VENEER IN SOUGHT AFTER SETTING 2 Riverview Crescent, Wangaratta

618m2

• 3 bedroom brick veneer home ideal for families or investors, set on a generous block • Enjoy the peaceful surrounds of Riverview Crescent & the tranquility of nearby King River

Superb lifestyle opportunity Set on approximately three acres (1.2ha) with sweeping views of the Warby Range, this quality-built sandstone block home, constructed circa 2010, presents an enviable lifestyle opportunity.

The spacious design features four bedrooms plus an open study, complemented by three generous living areas and two bathrooms, including an ensuite to the master bedroom.

Comfort is assured with evaporative cooling, ceiling fans and a combustion wood heater, while energy efficiency is enhanced by an impressive 11kW solar system.

Outdoor living is just as appealing, with a stunning inground heated swimming pool and an adjoining games and sports area perfect for entertaining family and friends.

Practicality is another highlight, with excellent water storage of approximate-

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Agent

| Garry Nash & Co

Phone

| 03 5722 2663

Price

| $1,099,000

Land

| 3 acres (1.2ha)

• Parklands adjacent and all within easy walking distance of the Wangaratta CBD

HOUSE FOR SALE

$765,000

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Location | 961 Boweya Road, Killawarra ly 182,500 litres, a large three-bay workshop measuring around 12m x 6m and the convenience of a school bus service at the front gate.

This property combines modern comfort with a rural lifestyle setting, offering the best of both worlds in a tightly held location.

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SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE 36 Park Lane, Wangaratta

2

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2,850m2

• Beautifully presented 4-bedroom brick veneer home, perfect for a growing family • Inviting paved alfresco area overlooking the sparkling inground swimming pool • An ideal 6mx12m (approx.) shed/workshop plus an additional 7mx15m (approx.) carport

HOUSE FOR SALE

$920,000

ONLINE CLEARING SALE 400+ LOTS

1994 NISSAN 4WD - OUTBACK CAMPER VAN - SHED FOR REMOVAL 400+ - CONNOR SHEA DISC SEEDER - ROCK COLLECTION - POTTERY LOTS COLLECTABLES - HAND TOOLS - SUNDRIES

A/C: S. M. Buchan

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LIFESTYLE ESCAPE IN WARBY HEIGHTS ESTATE 115 Baileys Road, Wangaratta South

2

15.6 ha

• Set in the Warby Heights Estate, with breathtaking outlook toward the Victorian Alps • Large central living showcasing cathedral-style Murray Pine ceilings & feature fireplace • Evaporative cooling, open fireplace, 3.3kW solar, excellent water storage, workshop/studio

LIFESTYLE FOR SALE

$849,000

View onsite - 24 Mackay St, Eldorado VIC 3746 A quality allotment of 1,200m2 approx. Land For Sale Auctioneers comment: This sale offers a wide and diverse selection of goods, pottery from our vendors ex Beechworth Gallery ‘The Kiln & Easel’ plus many other items.

Buyers can attend & bid with confidence.

VIEWING DATES: Saturday 27th September 9:30am to 12:30pm Saturday 4th October 9:30am to 12:30pm

BIDDING START: Thursday 2nd October at 10am BIDDING FINISH: Monday 6th October from 12noon

THE NEWS IS OUT!

45 Bridge Street East, Benalla

Floor 415m2 | Land 467m2

View full listing, register to bid, view photos, Terms & Conditions or to download the full catalogue by scanning the QR code here

• Substantial, central Benalla freehold in tightly held retail strip

Website - https://oa.garrynash.com.au/

• Dual access building - the rear backing onto major car park

Terms: No GST applicable. 5% Buyers’ Premium applicable on all goods.

Items must be paid for and funds cleared prior to collection date.

Copy of receipt by authorised person must be shown when collecting item/s.

COMMERCIAL FOR SALE

Attention buyers: For ease of bidding, we recommend you investigate making your offers using the ‘Autobid’ option.

23 Baker Street, Wangaratta 23 Baker Street, Wangaratta | (03) |5722 2663 (03) 5722 2663 | garrynash.com.au OPEN 7 DAYS | garrynash.com.au |

• Long established business with lease expiring 2043 (incl Options)

$950,000 No GST

TO SEE OUR LATEST LISTINGS, SCAN QR: 23 Baker St, Wangaratta | Ph: (03) 5722 2663 | garrynash.com.au |

NEW LISTING

NEW LISTING

NEW PRICE

NEW LISTING

Wangaratta 2/81 Murdoch Road

Wangaratta 49 Donald Street

Glenrowan 38 Glenrowan West Road

Boorhaman East 168 Hennessy Lane

161m2

683m2

20Ac

129Ac

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Great Location and Low Maintenance

Solid West End Home close to Schools & Shops

Comfortable Country Living on 20 Acres

Farming opportunity in Boorhaman East

For Sale Contact Agent View by appointment, wangaratta.nutrienharcourts.com.au/L22955373 Nutrien Harcourts Wangaratta

For Sale $550,000 View by appointment, wangaratta.nutrienharcourts.com.au/L36050687 Nutrien Harcourts Wangaratta

For Sale $799,000 View by appointment, wangaratta.nutrienharcourts.com.au/L31370618 Nutrien Harcourts Wangaratta

For Sale $819,000 View by appointment, wangaratta.nutrienharcourts.com.au/L36588645 Nutrien Harcourts Wangaratta

Paul Reid M 0417 537 520

Hugh Amery M 0487 777 311

Hugh Amery M 0487 777 311

Hugh Amery M 0487 777 311

Harcourts Wangaratta

Harcourts Wangaratta

Harcourts Wangaratta

Harcourts Wangaratta

NEW LISTING

NEW LISTING

AUCTION

Wangaratta 64 Willow Drive

Wangaratta 27 Milnes Creek Drive

Wangaratta 113 Wilson Road

Londrigan 659 Wang-Eldorado Road

512m2

738m2

28Ac

106Ac

4

2

4

4

2

2

3

1

3

Quality Construction and Design

Large Quality family Home

Lifestyle Living Close To Town

Superb Farming or Lifestyle Opportunity

For Sale $820,000 - $850,000 View by appointment, wangaratta.nutrienharcourts.com.au/L36049711 Nutrien Harcourts Wangaratta

For Sale $870,000 - $940,000 View by appointment, wangaratta.nutrienharcourts.com.au/L1193269 Nutrien Harcourts Wangaratta

For Sale $765,000 View by appointment, Wangaratta.nutrienharcourts.com.au/L19190933 Nutrien Harcourts Wangaratta

Auction 3rd October 11am Onsite (unless sold prior) View by appointment, Wangaratta.nutrienharcourts.com.au/L36041177 Nutrien Harcourts Wangaratta

Danial Siperki M 0400 027 473

Paul Reid M 0417 537 520

Paul Reid M 0417 537 520

Paul Reid M 0417 537 520

Harcourts Wangaratta

Harcourts Wangaratta

Harcourts Wangaratta

Harcourts Wangaratta

Londrigan 363 Boralma-Tarrawingee Rd

AUCTION

111Ac

3

1

NEW LISTING

3

“The Acacias” of Londrigan

Wangaratta 94 Tempelton Street 925m2 5 2 2 Period Charm in the Perfect Location

∙ Historic 1880’s redbrick residence “Acacia”, Londrigan’s original homestead, offered for only the second time in 145 years. ∙ Grand entry with soaring ceilings, wide hallway, polished Murray pine floors, and flexible floor plan featuring 3 bedrooms plus home office/optional 4th bedroom. ∙ Extended living space blending heritage charm with modern comforts: light-filled open-plan kitchen, dining & living, plus additional living area and formal dining room. ∙ Superb rural lifestyle on well-structured acreage: rainwater tanks, bore, 3 paddocks with laneway system, steel stockyards, shearing shed, large powered machinery shed, hay shed, and established gardens with mature trees — all within 20 minutes of Wangaratta CBD and under 5km to Tarrawingee.

∙ Restored 1940’s home showcasing its original façade and character, featuring 5 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and 2 living areas. ∙ Enhanced interiors with fresh paint, new carpets and blinds, polished Murray pine floors, plus unique details including leadlight windows, diamond-cut glass, and art deco ceiling roses and cornices. ∙ Centrally positioned kitchen with new appliances and generous storage, complemented by a fully renovated main bathroom with bath and walk-in shower. ∙ Designed for year-round comfort with ducted gas heating, evaporative cooling, and split systems in guest bedrooms. ∙ Entertainer’s outdoor area with fully undercover kitchen including plumbed gas and sink, flowing onto a north-facing yard with established gardens.

AUCTION 3/10/25 1pm Onsite View by appointment, wangaratta.nutrienharcourts.com.au/ L36037773 Danial Siperki M 0400 027 473 Hugh Amery M 0487 777 311

For Sale $1,195,000 - $1,290,000 View by appointment, wangaratta.nutrienharcourts.com.au/ L19190684

123Ac 4 2 6 Picturesque Farming opportunity in the King Valley ∙ Prime farming opportunity in the picturesque King Valley region ∙ Four-bedroom family home with outstanding shedding and sweeping views ∙ Spacious interiors, all bedrooms featuring built-in wardrobes ∙ Year-round comfort with evaporative cooling and wood combustion heating ∙ Extensive infrastructure: four-bay workshop, hay shed, machinery shed, and cattle yards ∙ Reliable water supply with five dams feeding stock troughs and household tanks ∙ Versatile land mix of cleared grazing paddocks, established shade trees, and rolling hill country ∙ Don’t miss this immaculate property—contact us today to arrange your inspection

For Sale $1,850,000 View by appointment, wangaratta.nutrienharcourts.com.au/ L26555591 Paul Reid M 0417 537 520

TESTIMONIAL

“

Excellent service, as always. The team at Harcourts are professional, friendly, and efficient.

“

Myrrhee 1694 Boggy Creek Road

Danial Siperki M 0400 027 473

Wangaratta

Selling & Leasing, Residential, Rural & Commercial Joe McKenzie

Paul Reid

SALES

Hugh Amery

Danial Siperki

Sam Lyster

44 Ryley Street, Wangaratta

03 5722 9444 admin.wang@nh.com.au www.wangaratta.nutrienharcourts.com.au

THE CHRONICLE, Friday, September 19, 2025 - Page 39

wangarattachronicle.com.au

Rural City Connection Friday 19 September 2025

Seniors Festival Program This year's theme, Connect, Create and Celebrate invites seniors to discover new interests, connect with fellow community members, and redefine what it means to age.

View the program of 171 free and affordable events and activities online, or pick up a copy at the following locations: Rural City of Wangaratta Customer Service Wangaratta Performing Arts & Convention Centre, Wangaratta Library, Wangaratta Sports & Aquatic Centre www.wangaratta.vic.gov.au/Community/Whats-On/ Wangaratta-Seniors-Festival-2025

Council Meeting This month’s Council Meeting takes place on 23 September at 6pm, Glenrowan Recreation Reserve, 5 Daniel Lane, Glenrowan.

You are welcome to attend in person or watch the recording on YouTube the following day. Community Consultation starts at 5:30pm. View the agenda and meeting details at www.wangaratta.vic.gov.au/Council-meetings Submit questions by 10:00am on the day to council@wangaratta.vic.gov.au, or ask in person during the meeting. For accessibility support, contact Customer Service on 03 5722 0888.

Tenders 19397 WPACC Cafe & Catering Services Tenders close 2pm on 22 September 2025 Council seeks suitably qualified hospitality organisations interested in managing all hospitality offerings available at WPACC, a major provider of arts experiences in the region welcoming over 110,000 visitors per year. www.wangaratta.vic.gov.au/WPACCCafe

Have Your Say on the following projects via Connect Wangaratta • • • •

Training, Placement & Transport closes 30 September Draft Council Plan closes 26 September Draft Financial Plan 2025-2035 closes 26 September Draft Asset Plan 2025-2025 closes 26 September

18791 Trade Services Panel Tender closes at 2pm on 24 September 2025 Council is calling for experienced and qualified tradespeople to join our Panel of Preferred Contractors. The panel will support maintenance and minor capital works across Council-owned buildings and facilities.

The panel will be in place for three years.

T17697 Drainage Services Panel Tenders close 12:00pm 24 September 2025 T16519 Supply of Clothing and PPE Tenders close 12.00pm on 5 October 2025

Join Youth Council Are you aged between 14-18 and want to have your say on what matters to young people in Wangaratta? Nominations are open for the 2026 Youth Council. Contribute your ideas, build your leadership skills, and make an impact in your community. If you’re up for the challenge, apply before 11 October www.wangaratta.vic.gov.au/youthcouncil

For further details please visit eProcure on Council’s website: www.wangaratta.vic.gov.au/Your-Council/CouncilSuppliers/Council-Tenders

Purple Bin Collections Have Commenced

G’day Glenrowan

Find out when your bin will be collected here: www.wangaratta.vic.gov.au/PurpleBin

G’Day Glenrowan Market Day is returning on Saturday 4 October, from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm at Lion’s Park, Gladstone Street, Glenrowan. Enjoy 60+ stalls, live music, kids’ face painting, BBQ, street performers, and free entry to Ned Kelly Discovery Hub. Support local makers, enjoy great vibes, and celebrate Glenrowan’s creative spirit.

Positions Vacant

Expressions of Interest Summer Events Local community groups, organisations, and vendors are invited to express their interest in being part of our Summer 2025–26 program. If you’re hosting a community event or would like to join Council-led events as a vendor or activity provider, we’d love to hear from you.

• 2025/2026 Summer Program Event Applications close 28 October • 2025 New Years Eve Food & Beverage Vendor Applications close 28 October • 2026 Outdoor Ball Food & Beverage Vendor Applications close 14 December For more information visit our website: www.wangaratta.vic.gov.au/Summer-EOI

Role

Closing

Membership & Engagement Officer

22-Sep-25

Quality Officer - Aged & Community Care

22-Sep-25

Vegetation Management Assistant

22-Sep-25

Waste Project Lead

22-Sep-25

Digital Enhancement Analyst

22-Sep-25

Tourism Event Funding Program

Governance & Reporting Advisor

22-Sep-25

Do you have a creative idea that will attract visitors and showcase the best of our region? We want to hear from you if you are planning an event in the Rural City of Wangaratta for 2026. Funding is available for up to $5,000 for major and marquee events, and up to $2,000 for minor events.

Applications close, 30 September. Find out more and apply www.wangaratta.vic.gov.au/Tourism-Event-Funding

Team Leader - Support at Home

22-Sep-25

Group Fitness Instructor - Aqua Exercise

22-Sep-25

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

Contact your Councillors Tania Maxwell

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

David Fuller

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

Harry Bussell

King River Ward 0429 475 863

h.bussell@wangaratta.vic.gov.au

Harvey Benton

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

Irene Grant

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

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

Ashlee Fitzpatrick

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

Allison Winters

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

wangaratta.vic.gov.au

Page 40 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, September 19, 2025

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

WHEN TO BOOK

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

SELLING A CAR

2 WEEKS REGIONAL WITH PICTURE

wangarattachronicle.com.au

BUY ONLINE

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

from $42

OPEN HOURS 9AM TO 5PM MON-FRI

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

GARAGE SALE

o

The Wangaratta Chronicle office will be closed for business on Friday, September 26, 2025 for the AFL Grand Final public holiday.

Deadline for classified advertisements for Monday, September 29 edition, will be Thursday, September 25 at 4pm.

Phone 5723 0101 Email: classifieds@nemedia.com.au

o

Annual General Meeting Wangaratta Lawn Tennis Croquet and Pickleball Club Inc. 12.45pm Saturday, October 11 2025.

Location: WLTCPC clubrooms at Merriwa Park All members encouraged to attend Contact President, Barry Sullivan 0419 373 988 FLY fishing course, full day course covers the basics of fly fishing, including equipment, casting tuition, fly selection and streamcraft, to be held on Sunday, October 12, 10am4pm at the Log Cabin, 28 Chisholm Street, Wa n ga ra t t a , c o s t $70 includes lunch.

To book your place contact 0427 756 665.

o

o

To Visit

Visited

VARIETY household goods, everything $1 unless marked, toys, clothes pre-loved and new, bric-a-brac, Saturday, September 20, 5 Taylor Street, Wangaratta.

o

To Visit Visited WOR K S HOP a n d building materials, gardening, camping, fishing and sewing g e a r, S a t u r d a y, September 20, 9am – 3pm, 81 Centre Road, Molyullah (46kms away from Wang), bring a trailer.

o

o

To Visit Visited HOUSEHOLD Items, Bric-a-brac, antique fu r n i t u re, wh i t e goods, tools and lots more, 8am start Saturday, September 20, 1 Evalyn Court, Wangaratta.

o

o

To Visit

Visited

DE C LU T T E R I N G sale. Women’s plus and baby clothing, toys and other household shed items. 9am – 2pm, Saturday, September 20, 74 Wenhams Lane, Wangaratta.

o

o

To Visit

Visited

50” smart tv, fishing rods and gear, set of golf clubs and buggy, vacuum cleaners, AFL prints and knick knacks, DVD player, some DVD’s, camping gear, books, puzzles, bric-a-brac.

Saturday September 20. 8.30am-12.20pm, Multiple Units.

22 Dunlop Street Wangaratta.

o

To Visit Visited DECEASED Estate, camping gear, tools, mountaineering books, furniture.

Saturday, September 20, start 8am, no early callers, 37 Wilson Road, Wangaratta.

o

o

To Visit

Visited

CAMPING, tools, toolboxes, furniture, household items and heaps more.

8am-2pm Saturday, September 20.

8 T i l s o n G r o ve, Wangaratta.

CLASSIFIEDS 5723 0101

SECOND hand small lift chair, wear on edges of arms and top corners, $250.

Ph 0408 547 661.

FREE Range Hens, ISA Brown Pullets, POL, $35 each. Phone Becky or Hugh on 5798 1868.

CA R PE N T RY a n d plastering. Ph 0424 911 161.

KITCHENS JUST FOR YOU, new kitchens, face lifts, wall units, prompt ser vice.

Phone Roland 0414 JAYCO Westport 20ft 950 647.

2000 model, sleeps 2, annex, combo shower LAWN MOWING, toilet, aircon, solar, pruning, quality diesel heater, tv, radio, work at a competitive everything works, price. Phone Paul very good condition, $21,500. Phone Terry 0431 945 320.

0428 398 360.

W H E E L E R Earthworks, available for all your earthworks needs - yard clean ups, stump removals, driveways, material supply and spreading, rural work and more.

Call Marcus on 0491 094 545.

2007 Range Rover, 3.6ltr, V8, turbo diesel, (2CW 9CW) power economy, good for horse float or HD towing. A world car made by Ford.

Ford Lion motor, German ZF auto, parts cheap and readily available, new AC pump, EGR valves, front wishbones. 11 months rego. RWC. priced well below market value for quick sale. $14,800 Ph 0429 139 474

MINI POODLES Bla ck a n d wh i t e parti phantom 19 weeks old, available now. DNA tested.

Source ID MB218464 Microchip Numbers 991003003251685 991003003251692 Call Karen 0417 362 961.

Classroom Teacher Positions Outdoor School 15 Mile Creek Campus – 3 positions

Job Numbers: 1494281, 1494370, 1494369 Contract Dates: 27/1/2026 to 26/1/2027 EFT: 1.0

Bogong Campus – 3 positions

Job Numbers: 1494388, 1494389, 1494390 Contract Dates: 27/1/2026 to 26/1/2027 EFT: 1.0

Bogong Campus – 3 positions

Job Numbers: 1494391, 1494392, 1494393 Contract Dates: 13/7/2026 to 7/1/2027 EFT: 1.0 Appointment of successful applicants will be made subject to the satisfaction of preemployment conditions. Further information about our school is available from our website www.outdoorschool.vic.edu.au.

Sell it!

Classifieds get results.

5723 0101

CLASSIFIEDS WORK - 5723 0101 EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST

2013 Holden Commodore VF Evoke sedan, 164,000km, 8 inch black edition mags, tinted windows, $12,000 (1JN1LQ). Ph 0400 990 522.

To apply please use the DET online recruitment website at: https://www.vic.gov.au/school-jobs Closing date for applications: Thursday, October 9, 2025.

Contact Person: Roger Blackwell – School Principal Mobile – 0417 202 578

JOBS AT INDIGO Manager Assets & Property Beechworth Permanent, full time $155,000 package

Road Maintenance Worker

EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST

1999 Honda S2000, PAINTER, old school, (PTY912) excellent for all your painting condition, $45,000. needs, commercial, Ph Bruce 0400 414 547. i n d u s t r i a l renovations. Phone Juliano 0412 597 482.

YORK exercise bike, as new condition $350. TIMBER cot and mattress $35 Ph 0408 579 394 or 03 5721 2708

If you don't use it...

AUSTRALIAN round 50 cents pieces 1966, 80% silver, $25 each, lots available. Ph 03 5721 6563.

FIREWOOD MIXED BULK LOADS Ph 0448 933 999

EMPLOYMENT

Land for Lease (3-year term with 1 year extension term option) – Benalla (VIC) Facility The Benalla Facility is owned by the Commonwealth of Australia and operated

by Thales, trading as Australian Munitions, producing energetic materials for the Australian Defence Force.

The Benalla property consist of 975 hectares suitable for mixed farming and 3 houses.

Australian Munitions is certified to ISO14001 Environmental Management System.

Tenders will need to comply with the environmental management system and other requirements defined in the EOI documentation.

To register your interest and request a copy of EOI documentation, please contact joanne. leslie@thalesgroup.com.au specifying project Land for Lease (3 year term with 1 year extension term option) – Benalla Closing date for submission of EOI documentation is Friday, September 26, 2025.

It is anticipated this activity will commence from July 1, 2026.

Rutherglen Permanent, full time $64,738 - $68,755 annual salary ($32.76 $34.79 per hour)

Customer Experience Officer

Customer hubs located across Indigo Shire Casual $32.76 per hour + 25% casual loading

Applications close 5pm Sunday 5 October 2025.

Executive Manager People & Governance Beechworth Permanent, full time $170,000 package

Applications close 5pm Sunday 19 October 2025.

Visit www.indigoshire.vic.gov.au/jobs to download the position recruitment kit, and to view instructions on how to apply. www.indigoshire.vic.gov.au Phone: 1300 365 003

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

5723 0101

Classifieds

THE CHRONICLE, Friday, September 19, 2025 - Page 41

wangarattachronicle.com.au

Classifieds Your Local Marketplace THANKS

DEATH NOTICES

Huge thanks and support Martin,Rachelle and Ross Reid would like to thank the Wang Club for their kind support they showed us on Saturday September 13, by having nibbles supplied to everyone in support of our family as we go through this tough time. The club has shown great support for us, and we are extremely appreciated to all the staff behind the bar.

Thanks for all your support

ANDERSON, Melissa.

Deepest sympathy to Eva and family on the sad passing of Melissa.

DEATH NOTICES

DEATH NOTICES

AMERY, Ian Alexander.

BERNARDI, Rino.

Passed away peacefully at Northeast Health, Wangaratta on September 14, 2025.

Aged 92 years.

Loved and loving husband of Barbara – married 68 years.

Loved and adored father and father-in-law of Jennifer and Nigel (Davies), Malcolm and Carolyne, Leonie and David (Waters), and Kaylene (Thompson).

Treasured Grandpa of 15 grandchildren and Great-Grandpa of 21 great-grandchildren.

‘Present with his Lord’.

1/2/1960 – 12/9/2025.

Dearly loved son of Agostino and Lucia (both dec).

Loved big brother of Maria and Ross.

Loved husband of Kerry.

Loving father of David.

Adored Nonno of Mia. To us you were someone special, Someone good and true, You will never be forgotten, As we thought the world of you.

ANDERSON,

Melissa Ruth.

‘Sis’ 31/7/1980 – 31/8/2025 Most beloved daughter of Debbie and partner Heath and David Anderson.

Forever in our hearts.

Loved and admired sister and sister-in-law of Adam and Kellie, Simon and Hannah, and Brad.

Greatly missed but never forgotten.

CRAVEN, Celia.

The Our Lady’s School Community is saddened by the loss of our friend and colleague Celia.

Celia’s positive attitude and infectious smile will be greatly missed by staff and students alike.

Our heartfelt sympathy to Simon, Kodi, Sienna, Ayla, Elaine and extended family.

DEATH NOTICES

DEATH NOTICES

DEATH NOTICES

McAULIFFE (nee Paterson), Judith Anne “Judy”.

PRATT, Ann.

PRATT, Ann.

Passed away peacefully at Wangaratta Private Hospital with family by her side on Wednesday, September 17, 2025.

Aged 75 years.

Much loved wife of Barry.

Dearly loved Mum of Mark and Mal (Melissa), Kym and Brett.

Adored Nana Judy of Tayla, Georgia, Hunter and Cruz.

To the world you were but one, To us, you were the world.

As per Judy’s wishes a private cremation has been held.

Mason Park

Funerals 5721 5060 masonpark.com.au

MORGAN, John Thomas “Tom”.

16/8/1925 - 18/9/2025 Passed away peacefully at Estia Wodonga.

Aged 100 years.

Dearly loved father and father-in-law of Greg and Lorraine, Debbie and Brett and Sharryn.

Cherished Pa and GG Pa to Shelley and Clinton, Kym, Melissa and Chris, Dwayne and Kirsten, Jayde, Nick, Jayden, Stacey, Charley, Brandon and Rachel.

Resting in Jehovah's Memory.

Loving grand-daughter to Marianne and Barry (dec) Beitzel.

Resting peacefully.

ANDERSON, Melissa.

Dearly loved niece of Karen and Neville.

Much loved cousin of Brendan and Lauren, Nicole and Vaughan, Ruby and Addison, Matthew and Danielle, Jordan, Evelyn and Olivia.

Our family gatherings will never be the same without you.

You had a heart of gold and our memories of you will last forever Rest in peace Sis.

ANDERSON, Melissa.

Sis, you were a beautiful soul with a heart of gold who cared so much and had time for everyone.

Our hearts are broken and we will forever miss your gorgeous and ever smiling face, your infectious laugh, your kind words and big hugs.

We love you so much. ~ Aunty Sandy and Uncle Ian, Keira, Luis, Archer, Wyatt and River, Leah and Julian, Lauren, Matt, Theodore and Matilda.

DAWS,

Glenda Noelle.

Passed away peacefully at Respect St John’s Aged Care on Tuesday, September 16, 2025.

Aged 86 years.

Daughter of Lillian and Alfred Daws (both dec).

Sister of Dianne Brandt, Eril Plum and Graeme Daws (dec).

Aunty to Jens (Christian) Brandt, Steen Brandt and their families.

A beautiful flower picked for God’s Garden.

Always cherished and will be always missed.

EDMONDSTONE, Kevin John.

Loving husband of Heather Edmondstone.

Father of Deborah, Stephen and Corey.

The service to celebrate the life of Mr Kevin Edmondstone will be held in the Mason Park Chapel, 95 Mason Street, Wangaratta on Thursday, September 25, 2025, commencing at 10.30am.

A private cremation will follow the service.

In lieu of flowers a donation to Dementia Australia in memory of Kevin can be made online at www.donate.dementia.org.au/donate Kevin’s service can be viewed via livestream at www.masonpark.com.au/live-streaming/

Mason Park

Funerals 5721 5060 masonpark.com.au

Passed away September 14, 2025.

My darling sister, my heart is broken, my sadness overwhelming. My life without you in it will never be the same.

Thanks for always being there for me through the laughter and tears over the years.

Until we meet again, bye bye Ann love you. ~ Rhonda, Paul, Emma, Leese and families.

PRATT, Ann.

15/9/1941–14/9/2025 For all the wonderful memories and get togethers from the 1950’s to today.

Rest in peace from the School Girls.

DEATH NOTICES PRATT, Ann.

Adored and cherished Mum to Jake, Trey and Eva xxx.

In our hearts you will forever remain.

Loved aunty to Max, Marley, and soon to be born, nephew.

Passed away peacefully Sunday, September 14, 2025.

My darling sister your sudden passing has left an emptiness in my heart. I love you so much and will miss you forever, especially our Friday night chats. I have great memories to keep forever.

Rest peacefully with our Dad and Mum. ~ Love always your sister Fay, John, Paula, Amber, Jack, Tim, Darcy, Max, Joe and April xxx

PRATT, Ann. 15/9/1941 – 14/9/2025 The family of Ann is saddened to announce her passing to family and friends.

To Mark, Gail, Heather, Grace, Fay, Rhonda and families.

Our heart goes out to you all.

Ann was a wonderful, kind, good friend to us all.

Great lady with a wonderful sense of humour.

Gone far too soon. ~Lee, Ross, Stacy, Adam Gardner.

DEATH NOTICES

DEATH NOTICES

PRATT, Ann.

PRATT, Ann.

Passed away Sunday September 14, 2025.

The Pratt family are deeply saddened to announce the sudden and unexpected passing of Ann Pratt.

Beloved mother to Mark.

Adored mother-inlaw to Gaily Girl.

Cherished Granny Annie to Josh, Emily and Adam.

We will forever miss her wicked sense of humour, compassionate nature and unconditional love.

Forever in our hearts.

Passed away September 14, 2025.

My little big sister.

I am forever grateful for every moment I shared with you in my whole life. I just wish there could be more.

My fun vivacious, beautiful Aunty Ann, what a privilege to have share some of this life with you.

Thank you for everything. ~ Your heartbroken sister and niece Heather and Grace xx

ROBERTS, Jan. The Wangaratta Bridge Club is deeply saddened by the passing of Jan, our much loved and respected member.

She will be missed enormously.

Condolences to her family.

RIP Jan.

Page 42 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, September 19, 2025

wangarattachronicle.com.au

Classifieds Your Local Marketplace DEATH NOTICES

FUNERAL NOTICES

ROSS,

ANDERSON

David Edward.

Passed away peacefully on September 12, 2025.

Aged 85 years.

Dearly loved and devoted husband of Helen for 60 years.

Devoted father and father-in-law of Bruce and Angela, Sandra and Kim. Much loved Pop to Austin and Juliet, Emily and Johnny, Michael and Maygen, and Rebecca.

Precious brother of Bev Stone.

David was dearly loved by his family.

He was a devoted family man who was happiest when surrounded by them.

A private funeral will be held.

Donations in memory of David to Peter McCallum Cancer Institute or Northeast Health would be welcomed.

A gentle nature, a heart of gold, One of the best this world could hold.

The celebration of the life of Melissa Anderson will be held in the Mason Park Chapel, 95 Mason Street, Wangaratta, on Wednesday September 24, 2025, commencing at 10.30am.

A private cremation will take place following the service.

Melissa’s service can be viewed via Livestream at www.masonpark.com.au/live-streaming In lieu of flowers a donation can be made to headspace in memory of Melissa at www.headspace.org.au/get-involved/ donations/

UEBERGANG, Dulcie Jean.

13/10/1930 – 13/9/2025 Passed away peacefully at Rangeview Nursing Home, Wangaratta.

Formerly of Templestowe.

Loved sister of Ken (dec) and sister-in-law of June.

Loved aunty of Neil and family; Lynda, David and family.

Bruce, Lucy and family; and Ian (dec).

Dearly loved and will be remembered by us all.

The funeral of Miss Dulcie Uebergang will be held at Tobin Bothers Reflections of Life Chapel, 816 Doncaster Road, Doncaster on Thursday, September 25, 2025 at 10am.

A private cremation will follow.

AMERY The memorial service to celebrate the life of Mr Ian Alexander Amery will be held at the Rose City Baptist Church, 93 Thomas Street, Benalla on Tuesday, September 23, 2025 commencing at 2pm.

A private family burial at the Thoona Cemetery will have preceded the memorial service.

Livestream of the service will be available with ‘Rose City Baptist Church, Benalla’ on Youtube.

A video recording of the service will also be available from 5pm, please go to the N J Todd website and follow the livestream link.

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

MORGAN A memorial service for John Thomas “Tom” Morgan will be held at the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah's Witnesses, 149 Clarkes Lane, Wangaratta.

2pm Thursday, September 25, 2025.

A private burial will be held prior to John’s memorial service.

Honouring the Journey

Mason Park Funerals

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

Funerals 5721 5060 masonpark.com.au

PRATT BERNARDI The funeral service for Mr Rino Bernardi will be held in the Mason Park Chapel, 95 Mason Street, Wangaratta on Tuesday September 23, 2025 at 2pm.

Burial will follow at the Wangaratta Lawn Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers a donation can be made online in memory of Rino to the Stroke Foundation at www.strokefoundation.org.au/donate Rino’s service can be viewed via Livestream at www.masonpark.com.au/live-streaming/

Mason Park

Funerals 5721 5060 masonpark.com.au

DAWS

The graveside service of thanksgiving for Ms Glenda Noelle Daws will be held at the Wangaratta Lawn Cemetery, Mason Street, Wangaratta on Tuesday, September 30, 2025 at 2pm.

FUNERAL NOTICES

FUNERAL DIRECTORS

Mason Park

Mason Park

Funerals 5721 5060 masonpark.com.au

FUNERAL NOTICES

Mason Park

Funerals 5721 5060 masonpark.com.au

MARSDEN On behalf of Kerry Marsden – her husband Keith (dec), children Scott and Janelle, and their families, we invite you to a celebration of her life.

Kerry loved her property and has spent countless hours creating, with Keith, a garden that is the only fitting location for her Springtime farewell.

Come celebrate her life followed by light refreshments.

‘Springtime Garden Celebration’ The Marsden Home 143b Rowan Street, Wangaratta Thursday, September 25, 2025 2pm for a 2.30pm service.

Please park on Rowan and Swan Streets and in nearby church car parks - for accessibility requirements you can access the driveway for drop-off only.

It will be held outside so please wear flat shoes, bring an umbrella and wear brightly coloured clothes. If the weather isn’t kind, we will provide 24-hours’ notice via the Mason Park website and Facebook and it will be relocated.

Mason Park

Funerals 5721 5060 masonpark.com.au

The funeral service to honour the memory of Ann Pratt will be held in the St Jude’s Church, 71 MacKay Street, Eldorado, on Monday, September 22, 2025, commencing at 2pm.

Burial will follow the service at the Eldorado Cemetery.

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

Family owned and operated

03 5722 2525 www.northeastfunerals.com.au

Mason Park

Funerals 5721 5060 masonpark.com.au IN MEMORIAM

Jenny Ingrid Gaze 22/9/2010 15 years have passed.

I think of you especially when I walk by the sea, work in the garden or feed the king parrots and remember you with love. ~ Doug

IN MEMORIAM

McNAMARA, Barbara.

Passed away September 20, 2024.

Aged 88 years.

Dearly loved mother of Jan and Kaye (dec).

Loving grandmother of Kellie, Tracy (dec) and Shaun.

Always in our hearts.

IN MEMORIAM FOUNTAIN, Nicole.

10/5/73 - 25/9/24 A year has passed and not a day goes by that I don’t think of you.

A thorn in my side but a rose in my heart.

Miss you and love you. ~ Peter

Remember your loved one in a lasting way The memory of a much loved family member or friend can live on through a donation to your local health service Northeast Health Wangaratta. This is a direct way of helping us to continually improve patient care and comfort, ensuring the availability of comprehensive health services in our local community.

Family and friends can make a donation in lieu of flowers in recognition of the medical care and attention provided.

In Memory of

Susan Tatulaschwili 8/5/1961 - 19/9/2024 Unable are the loved to die, for love is immortality.

Alex, Jess, Tanara, Sara, Alex and Eva.

The bereaved family will be notified of your memorial gift according to your wishes and you will receive a taxdeductible receipt for your donation.

To make a donation or to request information about memorial service donations or remembering Northeast Health Wangaratta in your will, please contact Community Engagement Team (03) 5722 5310 or PO Box 386, Wangaratta, Vic 3676.

THE CHRONICLE, Friday, September 19, 2025 - Page 43

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WANGARATTA Chronicle photographer Melissa Beattie made her way to the preliminary finals held at Birallee Park Wodonga to capture some action shots from the seniors match between Wangaratta and Myrtleford.

AIDEN TILLEY

CHRIS KNOWLES

HLING HUNTER GOTTSC TOBY COSSOR AND MATTHEW HEDIN

HARRISON SMART

MATHEW GR OSSMAN

DANIEL SHARROCK

SHARP AND JAKE IS L L E R E FRAS MAX BIHUN JASPER CRAVEN

TYLER NORTON AND CHRIS KNOWLES

Page 44 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, September 19, 2025

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SPORT

Team building on the range

The Wangaratta Clay Target Club recently welcomed Jayden Grisham and his team from Grimshaw Signs in Wangaratta to the club’s North Wangaratta range for a corporate team event.

The clay target club was pleased to introduce a local business to the club and provided all facilities and supervision ensuring everyone had an enjoyable, fun and exciting afternoon.

Club members are always willing to share their knowledge on gun safety procedures, technique and general advice when shooting at a moving target.

All in attendance managed to break some targets while participating in the club’s Down The Line discipline.

Several in the group did not

have much or any experience using a firearm before, however by the conclusion of the event, their capabilities in using a gun demonstrated that with a bit more practice they could easily become very proficient in the sport.

From the club’s point of view, it was very satisfying to observe a local business group in arranging their corporate day at the grounds at North Wangaratta and a look of satisfaction and lots of smiles on their departure.

For more details, contact Bob Glossop on 0427 621 195.

LEARNING TOGETHER: The team from Grisham Signs took to the range at North Wangaratta recently for a corporate team event.

SPORT JUBILEE GOLF CLUB

Thursday, 11 September Ladies Stableford 18 Hole Winner: Linda Stone 33, Joy Hester 32.

9 Hole Winner: Kathie Hyland 18.

Ball Winner: Lyn Male on C/B Robyn Harrison 13.

NTPs - 8th: Pip Whitford , 13th: Linda Stone.

Saturday, 13 September Ladies Monthly Medal Winner: Lee Freeland -7.

Ball winners: Ange Mitchell 2 ball -1, Di Murphy c/b from Kellie Roberts +2.

NTPs - 4th: Nikole Cunningham, 8th: Ange Mitchell, 13th: Pip Whitford, 17th: Kellie Roberts.

Men’s Monthly Medal A grade winner: Jacob Shonafinger -2. A grade runner up: Robert Voss +4.

B grade winner: Gary Butler +1. B grade runner up: Gordon Patterson +2.

C grade winner: Ray Hyland +1.

C grade runner up: Michael Baillie c/b from Doug Richens +2.

D grade winner: Dave Anderson -3. D grade runner up: Stan Goldsworthy c/b from Thomas Mulhall, Daine Porter -1.

Ball Winners: Thomas Mulhall -1, Daine Porter -1, Doug Richens +2, Danny Potter +2, Gary Walden +3, Ric Harnwell +3, Trevor Nippress +4, Mike Fitzsimonds +5, Joe Marjanovic Jnr +5, Bronte Bruce +5, Geoff Nicholson +6, Peter Challman c/b from others +6.

NTPs - 4th: Charl De Mink, 8th: Brendan Cairns, 13th: Mike Fitzsimonds, 17th: Robert Voss.

Monday, 15 September Veterans Stableford A grade winner: Michael Monro 34. B grade winner: Stan Goldsworthy 43.

Ball winners: Lawrence Miller 37, William Slade 33, John Batchelor C/B 32, Pat Ernst C/B 32.

Tuesday, 16 September Ladies 18 Hole Stableford Jubilee GC vs Wangaratta G.C Winner – Jubilee: Kathie Hyland 37. Runner Up: Judy Fogarty 35.

Winner – Wangaratta: Jacqui Hoggan 32. Runner Up: Lois Sanderson 27.

Team scores: Jubilee 582 @ 30.63, Wangaratta 359 @ 22.43.

Balls: Di Murphy 34, Liz Collihole 34, Sue Clayton 33, Josie Fitzsimons 32, Linda Stone 32,

Robyn Ottaway 32.

NTPs - 4th: Liz Collihole, 8th: Robyn Ottaway, 13th: Josie Fitzsimons, 17th: Ange Mitchell.

Wednesday, 17 September Men’s 18 Hole Stableford A Grade winner: Nigel Cooper C/B 36. B Grade winner: Ray Hyland 36. C Grade winner: Bernie Grealy 37.

Ball winners: Stan Goldsworthy C/B 36, Stephen McNaughton 36, Gary Butler C/B 35, Brendon Essex C/B 35, Brian Thomas 35, Michael Baillie 34, Pat Ernst C/B 34, Neville Hogan C/B 34, Trevor Nippress C/B 34.

NTPs - 4th: Steve Fisher, 8th: Stephen McNaughton, 13th: Gary Butler, 17th: Gordon Paterson.

Men’s 9 Hole Stableford A Grade winner: Michael Tanner 19. B Grade winner: Fred Porter C/B 20.

Ball winners: Garry Dickson 20, Peter Walker 18, Joseph Marjanovic Jnr C/B 16, Ray Gibbs C/B 16.

NTPs - 4th: Joseph Marjoanovic Jnr, 8th: Chris O’Keefe.

Thursday, 18 September Ladies 9 Hole Stableford Winner: Robyn Grealy 15.

Ball winners: Robyn Harrison 15.

9 Hole Stableford Event Winner: Leonard Chandler 21 points. Runner Up: Graham Whitehead 17 points.

Saturday, 13 September Men’s Competition 18 Hole Stableford Event A Grade Winner: Scott Thomson 40 points C/B. A Grade Runners Up: Jeremy Winter 40 points C/B. B Grade Winner: Bobby Hutchieson 42 points. B Grade Runners Up: Jack Dean 39 points.

C Grade Winner: Geoffrey Webster 40 points C/B. C Grade Runners Up: Joshua Camilleri 40 points.

Ball Winners: David O’Brien, Nick Jones, Stuart Bowman, Trevor Clark, Cooper Drury, Callum Honey, Gregory Sullivan, Hudson Membrey, Neil McKinnon.

NTPs – 2nd: Rodney Godde, 4th: Scott Thomson, 7th: Andrew Stevens, 13th: Stuart Bowman, 16th: Ian Rundell, 18th: Craig Henwood.

Domino’s Voucher NTP 10th 2nd Shot: Andrew Storer. RSL Voucher NTP 12th - 2nd Shot: Dale Carmody Birdies: Subway - Christopher Martens. KFC - Bobby Hutchieson.

Secret 6: Gregory Sullivan.

Raffle Winner: Callum Honey.

Women’s 18 Hole Stableford WANG GOLF CLUB Event Winner: Barbara Thomas 35 WGC Competitions: Week ending points C/B. Runner Up: Macie 14 September Thomson.

Tuesday, 9 September NTPs – 2nd: Macie Thomson, Women’s 18 Hole Stroke Event.

18th: Macie Thomson.

Winner: Janette Collier 77 nett Sunday, 14 September C/B. Runner Up: Lorraine Adams Medley Competition 77 nett C/B. 18 Hole Stroke event Ball Winners: Helen Tate, Jill Winner: Cooper Clark 38 points.

Halbwidl.

Runner Up: Jock Rogers 37 points.

NTPs - 2nd: Lorraine Adams, 4th: Sue Mcall.

TARRA GOLF CLUB September Monthly Medal Winner: Carolyn Sullivan 76 nett.

The members played a 2 person Runner Up: Janette Collier 77 nett Ambrose which was won by Leo C/B. McCoy and Lindsay Steer 75.10.1/4 Least Putts: Barb Thomas 27 63.3/4. putts.

The runner up Ken Miller and Wednesday, 10 September Angelo Garraffo nett 68.3/4.

Men’s 18 Hole Stableford Event Nearest the pins for the day on Winner: David Woodstock 38 the fourth was Ken Miller. points. Runner Up: Bill Dodd 36 On Monday, 15 September, four points C/B. members travelled to Rutherglen Ball Winners: Stephen Smith, to play in a round of the Corowa Arnold Sparks, Chris Oates, Veterans with Ken Miller winning Matthew Walsh, Trevor Trimble, A Grade with 37pts.

Michael Webster Runner up was Leo McCoy NTP 2nd: Kurt Schubert, 4th: with 36pts, and Pete Nolan was Trevor Trimble, 7th: Stephen runner up in B Grade, beaten on a Smith, 13th: Chris Oates, 18th: countback with 40 pts.

Chris Oates.

Golf to be played on Saturday,

involved the complete Murrindindi River Walk of about 12km, a shortened version of the same walk at about 8km, and a longer mix of the river walk and the Boroondara loop, which involved an ascent to the Wilhelmina Falls, to create an adventure of almost 17km.

WANG CROQUET Saturday began with all walks starting at the Cascades Picnic Results for Monday, 15 Area located at the southern end of September are as follows: the reserve.

Cheryle Beckley and Maureen To facilitate the three different O’Keefe d Joan Dyson and walks from the same location but Christine Ireland 7/4, Janet Kelly with three different end points and Robyn Muller d Terry Wilson and Jed Hart 7/4, Nathan Reynolds required 10 cars and an essential car shuffle. d Elise Downes 7/2.

It wasn’t long before each of On Saturday, our 97-year-old the three groups spread out - the member, Wendy Waddington, after trying for many years, finally long walk group continued after a sizeable break. managed to score a hoop-in-one.

At the Bull Creek Road there is A hoop-in-one is when your ball a bridge which you must cross to is in, beside or behind a hoop and when played, it runs the next hoop then continue along the river walk trail. in order.

This trail encompasses several Also of interest is that Janet Kelly foot bridges, some short steep who has recently had eye surgery is still able to run hoops from some hills, occasional steps through a variety of open forest to damp fern distance and on severe angles, gullies. even though, at times, she cannot It genuinely is a picturesque actually see the hoop. walk.

On Monday, Joan Dyson ran a Near the 10km mark we turned hoop from 20m. to begin the Wilhelmina Falls On Wednesday, Julie Sheahan, with the score at six all managed to ascent, and lunch was taken at a dislodge an opponent ball and run picnic table with a supposed view of the falls. hoop 13 to win the game.

Continuing to the top of the Play is at 1pm on Monday, falls, we rested again before the Wednesday and Saturday. final 4km leg of the trail, which Please arrive 15 minutes completes the Boroondara Loop. earlier to allow for a draw to be There was still some uphill to be undertaken. walked and then a long strenuous The club is located at 46 Ryan descent.

Avenue, Wangaratta.

This group finally reached the For further information please end which required a short walk contact president Susan Fischer along Falls Creek Road to the car at on 0417 217 009 or secretary Terry the Ferns Camp.

Wilson on 0417 326 739.

Coming Events WARBY WALKERS Friday, 26 September and/or Saturday, 27 September and/or Friday, 12 September to Sunday, 14 September - Murrindindi Scenic Sunday, 28 September.

A weekend in the Warby Ovens Reserve.

A group of 31 walkers descended National Park walking the Warbys south to north and the Killawarra upon the township of Yea and Forest to Peechelba, plus much the Riverside Caravan Park for shorter walks in the Killawarra. two days of walks within the Andy, 0439 209 749 - please Murrindindi Scenic Reserve, a contact by early next week to book park situated in the northern end into the one-, two-, or three-day of the Toolangi State Forest.

We met Friday evening at 8pm in walks.

For more details check https:// the caravan park’s meeting room warbybushwalkers.org.au/wpfor a briefing about Saturday’s content/uploads/Walks-Programwalks.

July-Sep2025.pdf.

Three walks were planned: one 20 September will be a Stableford event for the Bill & Mary McCormack memorial day - ladies are asked to please attend this very special day and all members to bring a plate.

Starting times are 11.30am rollup for a 12pm start.

THE CHRONICLE, Friday, September 19, 2025 - Page 45

wangarattachronicle.com.au

Spring in players’ steps firmly sprung

By RICHARD MORGAN and PHOEBE MORGAN On a warm spring night last Monday, 15 September, 26 players descended on the Oxley Hall where after a short time, table tennis bats were heating up with constant games played on all four tables.

New faces and seasoned attendees enjoyed the friendly social event.

Neil Spurgeon teamed up with Adrian Brunken to take on Gary Coad and Debbie Brunken.

With bats fully charged it was full on from start to finish.

The lucky shots and many impossible points made sure the game went down to the wire.

Smiles all round suggested one team won.

Clive Brooker and Kate Cole along with early start-

ers Jason Mullins and Cheryl Cole had a no-holds-barred approach.

With Clive’s serves being dished up and Kate winning returns Jason and Cheryl had plenty of opportunities to get a win.

No scores were recorded, but huge smiles suggested a great game was had by all.

Granddad Neil Brock teamed up with ‘I’m Back’ Theo Poulus against Brock’s granddaughter, Harper Nethercote and Graham Stephens.

The ‘young pair’ put the pressure on early, but the ‘older’ young ones proved after all their games had too much experience and scraped home: just.

Hot off the press, Phoebe Morgan, teamed up with Manni Poulos to take on umpire dad Richard Morgan and Neil Brock.

SPORT

HALL OF AGES: At the foremost table, Cherly Coad and Don Heath (left) sent Debbie Brunken and Janet Heath (right) a pinging projectile as, at the rear table Adrian Brunken leaves it in Ryan Van Der Poel’s capable hands to return a rapid serve from opponents Jacob Hardiman and Hugh Spring.

PHOTOS: Phoebe Morgan TABLE TENNIS TRIAL OF TWO NEILS: (from left) Neil Spurgeon and Neil Brock took on Don Heath and Bruce Fletcher, powering through the points in quick succession.

GOOD GAME: (from left) A chorus of congratulations followed Martin Butcher and Graham Stephens’ match against David Harris and Steve Van Der Poel after a tense final bout of gameplay.

After a number of long exchanges, Phoebe and Manni had the early lead.

Neil’s return off the wall and back on the table was judged as ‘no good’ by an independent jury.

A fast comeback was almost on the cards, but Phoebe and Manni scraped home by two points.

At one point, a table of the youngest players was formed with Jacob Hardiman and Harper Nethercote versus

Hugh Spring and Ryan Van Der Poel.

The gentlemen for once going at a reasonably slow pace to accommodate the hall’s newest player, but in the end, all used their youthly agility to dodge, weave and catch projectiles flying to all corners of the table.

Janet ‘I’m Here to Win’ Heath teamed up with Cheryl Coad to take on ‘The Don’ Heath and Richard Morgan.

With the boys all smug,

thinking it was going to be a ‘walk in the hall’, six points ahead; Janet and Cheryl were not giving up.

True to form they snuck home, winning by two points and left Don and Richard thinking; ‘what just happened?’

Teams swapped tables all evening, with Will Bonwick and Steve Van Der Poel taking on David Harris and Bruce Fletcher, with a high-stakes shootout

seemingly at every point.

To keep fleet of feet, Martin Butcher and June Uebergang took on team Van Der Poel at the central table, with Steve and Ryan victorious, by a measly three points.

Adults and secondary school students of all ages and abilities are welcome to join the group which meets at the Oxley hall at 7pm every Monday night: BYO bat, $2 and a plate of savoury or sweet snacks to share.

Dragons girls show grit in preliminary final, seniors star at league presentation night After a rollercoaster home and away season, the under 16 girls United team, representing Corowa and Wangaratta, entered last Friday night’s preliminary final against Norths as determined underdogs.

From the first whistle, both sides played with intensity, showcasing sharp passing and creating early scoring chances.

By quarter time, the scoreboard remained locked at 0-0.

Midway through the second quarter, Norths broke the deadlock, converting a chance in front of goal to take a narrow one-goal lead into half-time, but the United girls didn’t flinch.

They returned to the field with renewed grit and dominated the second half with relentless pressure and teamwork.

Goalkeeper Meegan Davey was a pillar of reliability, backed by the formidable defensive duo of Macy Douch and Maddi Reid, who proved impenetrable.

Their efforts consistently fed the ball into midfield, where Sienna Davis, Lily Rad-

HONOURED: MAT VOGEL WAS NAMED DIVISION TWO MEN BEST AND FAIREST. PHOTO: KYLIE SAMSON

BEST AND FAIREST: Wangaratta Dragon Kate Reilly (left) took out the top honour in the division two women’s grade.

PHOTO: Hockey Albury Wodonga nor, Sophie Shallue, and Lexi Seabright ran tirelessly to maintain momentum and set up attacking plays.

Up front, strikers Rahni Sorenson, Amelia McLeice, and Bea Zabenko kept the Norths defence on edge, with multiple opportunities created in front of goal.

United’s intensity was unwavering, keeping the ball in their attacking half for most of the second half.

With just two minutes remaining, Rahni found the back of the net, igniting a roar

from the crowd and levelling the score at 1-1.

The team surged forward with urgency, desperate to clinch the win, but time ran out before they could strike again.

Under Hockey Albury Wodonga rules, a tied match sees the team higher on the ladder advance and, sadly, this meant the end of the season for the United girls.

Despite the result, their performance was nothing short of inspirational.

They played with heart,

courage, and unity, making both the Corowa and Wangaratta Hockey Clubs incredibly proud.

Meanwhile, the Hockey Albury Wodonga senior presentation night on Monday was a chance to celebrate the incredible season of competitive sport across the region, and highlight those who are a class above.

The Dragons were well represented on the night, with Mat Vogel named division two best and fairest, who was unable to attend the night to

accept his award, while Kate Reilly took out the top honour in the division three women’s grade.

Now in her fourth year at the club, Kate is a proud and active Dragons member, serving as the junior engagement officer on the committee, cocoaching the under 12 girls, and co-captaining the senior team alongside Emma Gall, who also polled third in the vote count, making it a standout achievement for the club.

Reilly and the Dragons are into this weekend’s grand

final, hoping to break a substantial drought for the club.

“It’s been a privilege to play with the Dragons this year I’m really honoured to receive this award,” she said.

“It’s so rewarding to share the field with such an amazing group of ladies, and I wouldn’t be here without the support of my teammates.

“The Dragons have had a very successful season, and I’m hopeful we’ll be able to celebrate this accolade even more after the grand final this weekend - that would be the icing on the cake.

“It’s been years since the Dragons last won a premiership, and I’m determined to help lead our team to victory.”

Vogel said he was enjoying his new role in the middle of the action.

“It’s my first year as a midfielder in 19 years of playing hockey - with that said, I couldn’t have played as well if I didn’t have such a great team of people who are keen to learn and adapt new skills,” he said.

“I really appreciated all the support of family, friends and the Wangaratta Hockey Club.”

Page 46 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, September 19, 2025

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SPORT

Female footy encore, as interleague arrives here

By NATHAN DE VRIES

Almost a month after the final siren blared on the season, the North East Border Female Football League is back in action this weekend with a day of interleague clashes.

Set for Saturday, 20 September at Wangaratta’s WJ Findlay Oval, NEBFFL will host the Goulburn Murray Women and Girls League (GMW&G) in an under 18 game and an open women’s match, setting the stage for a day full of footy fun for all.

NEBFFL operations manager Matthew Elliott said the traditional interleague format had to be reworked due to some issues arising during the year.

“The league has played representative fixtures since 2023 against GMW&G and Central Victoria, in a roundrobin style carnival with a final in each grade to complete the day,” he said.

“The matches were planned for May initially, however due to some unforeseen challenges within all camps, we elected to reschedule the matches to September.

REPRESENT: Chloe Kungl (left) and Kaea Tua are two of 10 Wangaratta Rovers female footballers involved in this weekend’s interleague fixture.

PHOTO: Kev McGennan “Central Victoria was unable to join us this year, so we amended the carnival format to be a full game in both grades.

“This year is our turn to host within the three-year cycle of hosting responsibili-

KATE’S GREATEST CHALLENGE OF ALL

By SHANE DOUTHIE Local Para athlete Kate Fawkner literally left her hospital bed to fly to Brisbane to compete in the Oceania Masters Athletics Championships in early September, winning two gold medals in her chosen events, discus and shot put.

It was the first time the Oceania Masters Games included Para athletes in the competition, with athletes from 22 countries competing across five days of competition in track and field, cross country, racewalking and multis events.

Fawkner had been in hospital for 26 weeks after suffering a severe head injury after taking a fall while training at the Appin Street Athletics complex.

While in hospital surgeons discovered Fawkner had a brain tumour, and suffered from Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease (CMT), an inherited progressive disease of the peripheral nervous system.

But even these hurdles could not present the homegrown athletic champion from competing.

“I was excited to go up there and represent Australia,” she said.

“It wasn’t the ideal preparation but I was determined to get the doctors to allow me to compete.”

Fawkner competed in the F7 W60-65 age group winning gold in both her pet events, power seated shot put and discus.

On her return, Fawkner received a letter from the Royal Melbourne Hospital arranging an appointment with a surgeon, yet another challenge ahead for an athlete who refuses to allow life’s hurdles from achieving her goals.

GOLD CLASS: Para athlete Kate Fawkner with her two gold medals from the Oceania Masters Athletics Championships.

ties - last year we travelled to Bendigo for the carnival and finished runner-up in both grades.

“The interleague fixture is important as it brings together the competitions best players who can learn from

each other, and even players who are not selected in the final team can take something new back to their home club.

“It gives the players an opportunity to play at a level above club football which is going to benefit the stand-

ard and development of our league over time.”

While the change from a mid-season interleague carnival to a more traditional head-to-head interleague fixture - albeit a month after the season had finished - was un-

usual, Elliott said there were some advantages.

“Our NEBFFL teams commenced training two weeks after our NEBFFL grand finals, and have had three weeks of preparation time leading into Saturday’s matches,” he said.

“The timing has aligned well with our region’s VLine Cup teams playing next week.

“Further, the post-season scheduling means there are no clashes with club duties which gives the league greater flexibility with the training venue and player availability, and players don’t have to miss time with their home club to attend our training.”

Rovers Bron McGorlick and Jess Whitehead will coach the under 18 team, with Rovers Clare Collins, Gemma Couch Trinder, Lily Currie and Lily Gibb all making the cut, while Amy Collins, Rebekah Di Paola, Chloe Kungl and Kaea Tua have been named in the open women’s team.

Entry to WJ Findlay Oval is free on Saturday, with the under 18s kicking the day off at 11am, before the open women’s match at 1pm.

RUB junior cricket muster day Cricket season is just around the corner and local club Rovers United Bruck Cricket Club is kicking off its junior preparations with its annual junior muster day tomorrow.

To be held at the WJ Findlay Oval, the club is calling on all existing under 16, under 14 and under 12 players for its first session of the season, which will begin at 10am.

As well as existing players, the club encourages any other players from grades 5 through to year 9 to come along if they are wanting to get involved.

“It’s a great opportunity to get together a few weeks out from the season and get the kids back into it,” club vice president Jeremy Wilson said.

“We are looking forward to welcoming new and existing players back to the fold and want to provide an enjoyable atmosphere for everyone.

“We are playing in coloured shirts across all grades this year which is great as most kids these days love the T20 cricket.”

A barbecue lunch will follow for all in attendance.

For more information, please contact 0434271287 or email info@rubcc.com.au.

THE CHRONICLE, Friday, September 19, 2025 - Page 47

wangarattachronicle.com.au

NEWS

Magpies and Rovers lead the way in O&M club championship race

Join in the O&M grand final prematch build-up

SHARED SUCCESS: WANGARATTA MAGPIES PRESIDENT JON HENRY WITH THE O&M LEAGUE’S ROADSAFE NORTHEAST OVERALL CLUB CHAMPIONSHIP TROPHY.

By SHANE DOUTHIE As further evidence of the strength of football and netball in the rural city, Wangaratta Magpies were awarded the O&M league’s Roadsafe Northeast Overall Club Championship title, edging Wangaratta Rovers out by just three points 179 - 176.

Rovers amassed 93 points across all football grades to take out the league’s overall football title, while Rovers netball scored 83 points across all grades.

That compared to Magpies 64 points for football and awardwin-

ning 115 points across all grades of netball.

Wodonga Raiders secured the overall O&M netball club championship with an astonishing 143 points with teams playing off on Sunday in 15 and under, 17 and under, and A grade.

OMFNL general manager Kane Arendarcikas paid tribute to the Wangaratta club’s success in a particularly competitive season in all disciplines.

“In what has been one of the most competitive seasons of O&M football and netball in recent memory,

it is no surprise that the Roadsafe Northeast Overall Club Championship went right to the wire,” Arendarcikas said.

“The O&M congratulates the Wangaratta FNC for an excellent season, and with five teams across football and netball involved in finals, will no doubt be looking to add to the trophy cabinet before the season is completed.”

Magpies president Jon Henry was understandably proud of the award, which he said reflected the overall strength of the club.

“I would like to give a big shout

out to all our coaches through all the grades in football and netball,” Henry said.

“We pride ourselves on bringing strong mentors into the club who each make a difference to the players individually and as a team, ably led by our senior football coach Jason Heatley and senior netball coach Shea Cunningham.

“And of course our hard working volunteers and generous sponsors, who make it all possible to have three football and four netball sides take to the field and court each week.”

You don’t have to be an elite footballer of netballer to be a part of the build-up for this year’s O&M grand final.

Both Wangaratta clubs are holding open football training sessions at their respective home grounds on Friday evening with training for both expected to begin around 6pm.

At the Norm Minns Oval the Magpies will be operating their Riverside Bar from 5pm as well as offering roast beef rolls for sale and encourage supporters and sports fans to go along to see the players enjoy their last hit-out.

Wangaratta Rovers invite the Hawk supporters and the wider community to the WJ Findlay Oval to experience the footballers going through their paces, before joining them upstairs in the clubrooms for a lasagne dinner with the bar open.

You can even purchase some club merchandise at each venue so you are in your team’s colours for the grand final weekend and celebrations afterwards.

History in the making ■ From the back page

BATTLE TO THE LAST: Wangaratta Magpies’ Jasper Craven and Wangaratta Rovers’ Sam Murray will be among the combatants on Sunday GOLF LINKS LANE: All that separates Wangaratta’s two Ovens and Murray clubs, based at the Norm Minns Oval as the rural city’s two Ovens and (left) and WJ Findlay Oval (right). The Magpies and Hawks have been engaged in conflict for 75 years, and will Murray clubs fight it out for the 2025 PHOTO: Simone Kerwin premiership. PHOTO: Melissa Beattie play their fifth derby grand final on Sunday at the Lavington Sports Ground. tons’ grandfather, Laurie, played in the Magpies’ 1976 premiership.

Brothers Darcy and Mitch Booth - whose dad Mark was a member of the 1977 Rovers premiership team - will be part of the Hawk reserves’ tilt, with Darcy as co-coach.

There are also brotherly connections across the Rovers’ senior and reserves outfits, including Will and Sam Nolan, Joel and Kyle Smith, Joe and Sam Allen, and Alex and Harrison McCarthy.

Lauren Flynn, whose dad Eddie

played in the Rovers’ ‘77 flag, will look to mirror her father’s feat from 48 years ago when she lines up in the C grade grand final against the Magpies, to top off a season in which she notched her 150th game.

Connor Crimmins, whose late father Chris and sister Chaye both played 200 games with the Magpies, will wear the brown and gold of the Hawks in the reserves grand final.

Rovers’ Charlie Thompson will be out to snare a flag with the Hawks, just as his grandfather Des

We Are Wang Rovers

Join us on Socials

SUN 21ST SEPT - LAVINGTON SPORTS GROUND, LAVINGTON 10:15am - U17 Netball: Wang Rovers v Wodonga Raiders 10:30am - Reserve Football: Wang Rovers v Lavington 2:30pm - Senior Football: Wang Rovers v Wang Magpies 3:15pm - C Grade Netball: Wang Rovers vs Wang Magpies “We are the team, to remain supreme in 2025”

GO ROVERS!

Wangaratta Magpies thirds coach Chris Knowles - a former Hawk will start the day in charge of the ‘Pies lads and then aim to continue his fantastic run of form against his old club in the senior clash.

Magpies C-grader Brooke Henwood and her partner, Rovers footballer Will Nolan, have the chance to snare rare dual back-to-back flags, after their amazing effort in 2024.

Not surprisingly, considering Wangaratta’s ingrained passion for sport, family connections run deep both through and between the rival clubs.

In the Rovers’ two netball grand final teams, mother and daughter Samantha and Lily Lyster will be out to bring home a double as they both compete for the Hawks.

Two sets of brothers will be part of Magpies premiership bids - Xavier and Hamish Laverty, and Cooper and Blake Newton (Xavier and Blake in the seniors and Hamish and Cooper in the thirds); the New-

Coming up...

Steele did with the Magpies in 1961 and ‘76, and in the reverse scenario, Magpie seniors co-captain Jackson Clarke is in reach of the premiership glory his grandfather Les enjoyed with Rovers in 1958 and ‘60.

Sophia Pasquali could follow in the footsteps of her three-time Rovers premiership-winning uncle Anthony if her under 17 Rovers team takes the chocolates.

And the Magpies’ Jasper Craven, who moved south from Queensland in 2025 to play with dad Danny’s for-

mer club, would love to help pen a fairytale finale to the season’s script.

That’s just a taste of what’s on offer at Lavington on Sunday, and surely enough to whet the appetite of anyone who loves the unpredictability of live sport.

More broadly, the day illustrates the health of the two Wangaratta clubs and the passion surrounding them; the value of that to a city continuing to emerge from the impact of a historic pandemic cannot be underestimated.

Friday Night Open Training Session.

River Bar open from 5pm.

BBQ, chips & roast beef rolls available. Can bar open.

All the best

to C Grade Netball, Senior & U18 Football teams on Sunday. wangmagpiesfnc

Wangaratta Magpies Football & Netball Club

Page 48 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, September 19, 2025

wangarattachronicle.com.au

Dragons shine in league awards

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Page 45

PRIMED FOR THE PREMIERSHIP: Wangaratta will be well represented on O&M grand final day this Sunday, with (from left) Jackson Clarke (seniors), John Blake (thirds), Brooke Henwood (C grade), Kyle Smith (reserves), Tyler Cleal (C grade), Annie Harding (17 and under), and Tom Boyd (seniors) all ready for the biggest match of the year.

PHOTO: Marc Bongers

History in the making Wangaratta’s Ovens and Murray clubs dominate proceedings at this Sunday’s grand final event If ever there was a means to kindle the flame of rivalry between Wangaratta’s two Ovens and Murray clubs in the modern age, it’s a derby grand final.

The enormity of the impending occasion settled on anyone watching the dying minutes of Sunday’s senior preliminary final at Birallee Park, as Wangaratta Magpies booked a grand final showdown with next-

BY SIMONE KERWIN

skerwin@ nemedia.com.au

door neighbours Wangaratta Rovers.

Talk of the derby is on the lips of just about every sports fan and history buff in the district this week who - no matter their allegiance - will be chuffed that more O&M silverware will be

heading down the Hume to the rural city on Sunday evening.

The clash is indeed history in the making; it’s 48 years since the two clubs have met in a senior football decider, and it will be only the fifth time they’ve done so since the Rovers joined the league in 1950.

Their previous clashes were back-to-back meetings in 1964-’65 and 1976-’77.

The Hawks won the first two encounters, led by Ken Boyd against Ron Critchley’s ‘Pies, while Wangaratta notched its first premiership against its cross-lane foes under the guidance of Phil Nolan in 1976 - much to the chagrin of Neville Hogan’s men.

The following year, the Rovers (this time coached

by Darryl Smith) reversed the result in the clubs’ most recent grand final meeting.

Officially, modern-day supporters will tell you that any friction between the Golf Links Lane neighbours belongs to another era.

Off the record, though, it’s a different story - and there’s a fair chance those sentiments will bubble over in the cauldron of the Lavington Sports Ground, where the Hawks and ‘Pies will also contest the C grade netball grand final.

In other matches with a Wangaratta flavour, the Rovers reserves and Magpies thirds both take on Lavington in their respective encounters, while the Rovers’ under 17 netballers meet Wodonga Raiders on the hilltop netball court.

Everywhere you look, there are delicious little subplots running parallel to Sunday’s games…

■ Continued page 47

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