A new, more visible hub in the grounds of Holy Trinity Cathedral will create a vibrant atmosphere for the 35th Wangaratta Festival of Jazz and Blues, which kicks off this evening.
Featuring a free community stage in front of the cathedral, stalls showcasing local food and wine and manned by 15 local businesses, as well as kids’ activities including a jumping castle, the hub is set to develop the festive feel around the rejuvenated annual event.
An opening party will be held nearby at The Railyard this evening, and ticketed events on the festival program for Saturday and Sunday are all within easy walking distance of the cathedral, adding to the relaxed, feelgood vibe for which the event is renowned.
Shows will be happening at The Railyard, Wangaratta Performing Arts and Convention Centre, Old Baptist Church, and at the GOTAFE Auditorium, where the 2025 National Jazz Award - this year focused on brass - will be contested on Saturday from 11am.
The always-popular jazz mass will be held inside Holy Trinity Cathedral on Sunday from 10am.
There are also shows at Old Faithfulls Brew Bar, and The Vine Hotel, while the Tarra Blues Fest will compliment the Wangaratta festival over its two-day program at Tarrawingee’s Plough Inn, and a Big Record Fair at the Wangaratta Club from 10am on Saturday and Sunday will also delight music-lovers.
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MUSIC TO OUR EARS
■ From front page
On Monday, the jazz and blues festival’s focus will switch to Milawa, where performances will round out the four-day program on Melbourne Cup eve.
This year is the second staging of the decades-old festival since it was resurrected from what threatened to be its ‘last hurrah’, and festival chair Andrew Nunn said it was coming together well.
“This is such a big festival, and there is lots of goodwill around it,” he said.
“The conversation about the event is starting to change, with the ‘Why aren’t you doing this?’ questions now becoming ‘How can I help?’.
“We’re almost there in terms of turning that around.
“We have to keep trying things and seeing what works and what doesn’t; we may make some mistakes along the way, but we can also fix them.”
Festival sponsor Charmaine Hall, from Unbound Financial, said she had lived in Wangaratta for 27 years, and the event had been part of her growing-up years.
“Even though I had no idea what jazz was when I was younger, I loved the atmosphere, and it’s important that we support it to keep going,” she said.
“It’s something that the community needs, and one of the things that puts Wangaratta on the map.
“I had no hesitation in helping out.”
Kelly Kaur from Aroma Deli and Emily Scott from Watermarc will both be among the festivities over the weekend, with the businesses setting up stalls to complement the community stage and festival hub.
“We’re excited to see it all happen,” Ms Scott said.
“The festival means a lot to many of our customers, and we wanted to be part of it.
“It’s a nice cultural thing, and I remember so much of it as a kid - people sitting, eating and drinking at the festival; that’s the feeling we want to help create.”
Ms Kaur said she had worked over the last 10 years during jazz festival weekend.
“It’s always busy, and I enjoy the atmosphere; it brings people to town, and helps local businesses,” she said.
With the weather outlook promising across Saturday and Sunday, Mr Nunn it was hoped locals would enjoy the chance to peruse stalls around the community stage, and perhaps also choose to attend one or more of the shows being regularly staged close-by.
About 30 local volunteers will generously donate their time in a range of roles over the weekend to help things run smoothly, and about the same number of local musicians will take to the community stage to entertain the crowds, from 12 noon on Saturday and 12.30pm on Sunday.
On the eve of the 2025 event, Mr Nunn said festival organisers were also looking further into the future.
“We’d love to hear from anyone keen to partner with us to help grow the festival, and to take that ‘How can I help?’ approach,” he said.
TINY JAZZ: THE OLD BAPTIST CHURCH, ON THE CORNER OF BAKER STREET AND DOCKER STREET, WILL AGAIN BE THE VENUE FOR THE TINY JAZZ SERIES AS PART OF THE WANGARATTA FESTIVAL OF JAZZ AND BLUES. THE TICKETED SERIES WAS ADDED TO THE JAZZ FESTIVAL LINE UP LAST YEAR WITH SUCCESS. IT WILL BEGIN ON SATURDAY AT 2PM WITH THE ALEXANDER BEETS QUINTET, AND CONTINUES DURING THE AFTERNOON AND EVENING, BEFORE STARTING UP AGAIN ON SUNDAY AT 12 NOON.
Tarra Blues festival
Music lovers will be spoilt for choice in the Rural City of Wangaratta this weekend, with the two-day Tarra Blues festival complimenting the 35th Wangaratta Festival of Jazz and Blues.
In its third year in 2025, Tarra Blues will again be held in the grounds of Tarrawingee’s Plough Inn, from 4pm on Saturday and from 11am on Sunday.
The Saturday session is designed to get patrons up on their feet, grooving to a collection of blues music, from Sons of Motherless Goats, the Macnamar Project, Sammy Owens Blues Band and Blues Roulette.
Sunday’s program features Charlie Bedford, Hey Gringo, Fiona Boyes and the Fortune Tellers, and the Jimi Hocking Trio.
Tickets for the two-day event can be secured at https://www.trybooking.com/ events/landing/1361898
Festival free community stage, other events
Meanwhile in Wangaratta, the free community stage at the Wangaratta
BY SIMONE KERWIN skerwin@ nemedia.com.au
Festival of Jazz and Blues hub at Holy Trinity Cathedral will kick off at 12 noon on Saturday with the Wangaratta High School Band.
They will be followed at 1pm by the Army Band, at 2.30pm by Royal Motown Revue, and at 4pm by Gusto Gusto.
On Sunday, following the 10am Jazz Mass in the cathedral, which will feature Bob Sedegreen and the Amelia Evans Quartet, the community stage starts up again at 12.30pm with High Society, followed by Cope Street Parade at 2pm, The Blues Brothers at 3.30pm and the Geoff Achison Band at 5pm.
On Saturday and Sunday, people of all ages are invited to visit the festival hub between 12 noon and 3pm to be part of 100 Guitars - A Tribute to BB King (who was born 100 years ago).
A collection of 100 guitars has been created by a team of community volunteers, and they will be ready and waiting in the colourful guitar shelter for people to decorate and take home.
The community engagement project is free, and all materials are supplied.
Participants under 14 must be accompanied by a responsible adult, and collaboration is encouraged.
Festival volunteers will be on hand to supervise and offer suggestions, and 50 guitars will be available each day, until stocks run out.
It’s a chance to have fun while learning about a true music legend.
In addition to the annual Oxley Bush Market on Saturday, and the Jazz Riverside Market in Apex Park on Sunday - both starting at 9am - Old Faithfulls Brew Bar will host its second pre-loved clothing Hanger Club at the Faithfull Street business on Sunday from 9am to 12 noon.
More on Monday too
On Monday, during the ‘Milawa Monday’ of the jazz festival program, Lancemore will host a free-entry lounging jam session from 4pm, with cocktails, drinks and food available to purchase; other Milawa events will be held at Milawa Cheese Factory and Henley’s Wine Bar and Kitchen (both ticketed).
There’s a veritable feast of entertainment, both ticketed and free, for locals to enjoy over the weekend.
DAZZLING DISPLAY READY FOR 2025 KING VALLEY ART SHOW
By ANITA MCPHERSON
It has taken hard work and concentration from a committed team of volunteers, with guidance from internationally acclaimed Cheshunt-based artist Fran O’Neill, but 300 artworks have now been hung in readiness for the opening of the King Valley Art Show 2025, at King River Brewing Friday evening, 31 October.
King Valley Arts president Anita Laurence said she was thrilled by the standard of entries - and to see a good number of first-time entrants taking part - which has all helped to make it another dazzling show.
Judge Ben Winspear arrived in the King Valley on Wednesday, ready to begin the challenging and time-consuming assessment process on Thursday.
The Melbourne-based artist and tutor, who creates landscapes and portraiture in both
oils and watercolour, will also have a collection of his own artwork on display at the show on the weekend.
Ben will be conducting “en plein air” demonstrations at the brewery on Sunday, 2 November at 11am and 2pm, taking advantage of the stunning countryside around the brewery, with fellow artists Michael Ashby, Cara Dosser and Jo Kerr also demonstrating their practice on Sunday.
There is plenty for all ages to enjoy, with refreshments available from the brewery, and arts and crafts activities for children on Sunday from 12pm to 4pm.
Winners will be announced at the gala opening tonight (tickets available at humanitix. com/2025-king-valley-art-showgala-opening) before the show opens to the public on Saturday and Sunday from 10am to 5pm and on Monday from 10am to 3pm, with entry $3.
Stay in your lane this Cup Day weekend, urge police
Local police are warn ing motorists to cut down on momentary lapses while driving, as new data shows one small slip up has led to hundreds of lives lost on Vic torian roads this year.
Operation Furlong will run across the next five days, with the latest police blitz to have a significant focus on speeding and distracted drivers across the region.
Distracted driving can come in many forms from fatigue, mobile phone use and inattention, which will be a key focus for police.
Wangaratta Highway Pa-
BY BAILEY ZIMMERMANN bzimmermann@ nemedia.com.au
trol Senior Sergeant David Gillespie said local officers were seeing a disturbing trend in drivers who were failing to keep left of centre, resulting in serious collisions.
“For the oncoming motorcyclists, who we know use our roads a lot this time of year, that’s absolutely life threatening,” he said.
“Driving on rural roads for an extended period is actually very fatiguing and a lot
Police to be present for festivities
Wangaratta police on the ground and on the road will be patrolling the rural city throughout a busy Festival of Jazz and Blues weekend.
With the influx of visitation expected, members will be out and about ensuring responsible behaviour is conducted city wide, with breath and drug related testing across the rural city “anywhere at any time”.
of people underestimate how fatigued they’re going to be when they get to their destination.
”We want people to start planning their trips… stay in your lane and stay alive on the roads.”
New police data has re-
vealed motorists being killed in head-on collisions is on the rise in the North East and across the state.
More than 60 per cent of fatalities so far this year in Victoria resulted from single acts of non-compliance – also referred to as one-off
incidences or basic driving errors – rather than extreme driving behaviour.
Notably, there has been a 75 per cent increase in lives lost due to a single act of non-compliance involving a head on collision with another vehicle, with failing to keep left the most common factor.
Head-on fatalities are most frequent during the afternoon from 2pm–6pm and on rural roads with a speed limit of 100km/h.
Snr Sgt Gillespie said low level speeding also continued to trend in collisions
in the North East.
“Having a collision is unforgivable in many ways and can be lifelong,” he said.
“You’ve got to really give intersections the respect they deserve up here, particularly in the rural environment.”
Snr Sgt Gillespie urged motorists to undertake driving responsibly and treat it with the respect it deserves and needs.
“We keep asking people to start those long weekends to be safe, but we are continually seeing people are making decisions which are easily avoidable,” he said.
VARIETY GALORE: King Valley Arts president Anita Laurence invites everyone to come and see the entries in this year’s King Valley Art Show which opens on Friday night.
$200 vouchers to help kids get active
The Victorian government is helping eligible families with $200 vouchers so their children can get active and play the sports they love this summer.
The next round of Get Active Kids vouchers are now available.
Families can apply for the vouchers online before redeeming them at an activity provider like a local sporting club for a reimbursement of up to $200 per child.
Children must be 18 years and under who are named on a Commonwealth Health Care Card or Pensioner Concession Card, and named on a Medicare Card.
A second 2025/26 round of the Get Active Kids Program will open early next year, giving even more families a chance to get their child involved in sport.
For more info or to apply, visit getactive. vic.gov.au/vouchers
DIG INTO THOUSANDS OF RECORDS AND CDS AT WANG’S BIG RECORD FAIR THIS WEEKEND
By JORDAN DUURSMA
Vinyl lovers, collectors, and curious music fans rejoice: Wang’s Big Record Fair is back for its second year, promising an even bigger dig through thousands of records and CDs.
Hosted by No.49 Record Bar, the event will run this weekend, 1-2 November, at the Wangaratta Club, 4 Victoria Parade, coinciding with the iconic Wangaratta Festival of Jazz and Blues.
Organiser Ben Nyman said they have 11 local and interstate vendors bringing records and CDs to sell.
“There’ll be around 20,000 records and CDs covering every genre you can imagine,” he said.
“It’s going to be packed.”
The fair will run 10am–6pm Saturday and 10am–4pm Sunday, offering a treasure trove for collectors and casual browsers alike.
Whether you’re hunting for rare pressings, classic albums, or just starting your vinyl journey, there’s something for everyone.
Ben said the event is open to all ages.
“We’re inclusive, accessible, with parking on site and accept-
ing both cash and card.”
Last year’s inaugural event drew an estimated 400 attendees, and with buzz already building on social media, this year is expected to be even bigger.
“Last year was massive,” Ben said.
“We had to spread it across two rooms, the response was incredible.”
The timing of the fair is no coincidence.
Ben said they chose to run on the same weekend as the jazz festival because there are already music lovers in town.
“It’s a great crossover of
Emeritus Award for city mayor
By STEVE KELLY
A devoted leader in the local community Mayor Irene Grant has received two awards recognising her excellent service in local government.
Presented at a the Municipal Association of Victoria Councillor Service Awards ceremony Cr Grant received a 10-year service award and a Mayor Emeritus Award.
Cr Grant told the Wangaratta Chronicle that it was a real honour to be recognised by the sector for her involvement in local government and In particular the honour of Mayor Emeritus.
“Local government has been for me an abiding interest which began when I worked at the Chronicle, and I reported on the council meetings, though much has changed since that time, and in a positive way, I have continued my interest in the processes of council,” she said.
Looking at the highlights, Cr Grant said her involvement in local government and with the Ru-
Irene Grant recognised for her civic service and reflects on
during time so far
ral City of Wangaratta has been over a long period of time and it was difficult to focus on specific projects.
However, she viewed some of the significant achievements were the Big W development, the expansion of the Wangaratta Sports and Aquatic Centre, the expansion of the library into the old TAFE building, the development of the Glenrowan Masterplan (and finally seeing the interpretive centre coming to fruition), the adoption of a new waste and recycling service (including the organics process) and the initial development of Wangaratta performing arts complex, rural town and amenity planning as well.
“More recently, the focus has been on the ongoing development of residential land in the south and west of Wangaratta,” she said.
“Planning and planning decisions remain one of the more challenging elements and making the right decision is always a challenge.”
She reflected on one of her most rewarding experiences in her time in council, and that was being appointed as one of the three administrators when the council was unfortunately dismissed in 2013.
interests,” he said.
“People can come for the jazz and stay for the vinyl.”
With vinyl and CD collecting seeing a resurgence in recent years, Ben said the fair is part of a broader revival.
“There’s been a real return to physical media, with people boycotting streaming services,” he said.
“Even current artists are releasing on vinyl again.
“It’s great to see.”
Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just curious, Wang’s Big Record Fair is a must-visit event this weekend.
be on the basics such the maintenance of roads and infrastructure, general amenity around parks and gardens and sporting facilities, and of course the connection that comes with facilities like the library, the sports and aquatic centre, the performing arts complex and gallery and even the saleyards,” she said.
“Being an administrator gave me a completely different perspective on the role of council, and of course the importance of strong local governance to achieve the wellbeing and prosperity of the community,” she said.
“Another highlight was being appointed the chair of the Australian Regional Cities Group.”
Cr Grant said council plays a vital role in making “things better” in the community.
“Council’s focus should always
“These facilities bring our community together, it’s so important.”
MAV president Jennifer Anderson said the awards highlight the vital role councillors play in local democracy and community wellbeing.
“Being a councillor is a demanding role, often carried out alongside work and family commitments,” Cr Anderson said.
“Acknowledging these milestones is vital - they represent years of leadership, service and passion for community.”
Est. 1884, Incorporating Wangaratta Despatch, Est. 1861
DIG IN: Ben Nyman is encouraging vinyl lovers, collectors, and curious music fans to Dig into thousands of records and CDs at Wang’s Big Record Fair this weekend. PHOTO: Jordan Duursma
CATHEDRAL COLLEGE PRINCIPAL TO MOVE ON
Cathedral College Wangaratta principal Nick Jones will conclude his six-year tenure at the school at the end of this year.
Mr Jones will return to Western Australia with wife Jodie and children Maddie and Luke, as he takes up the role of principal at All Saints’ College in Perth. His time at Cathedral College began during the devastating January bushfires in 2020, and soon after he was navigating the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Mr Jones will be remembered for his compassionate, clear leadership, and his commitment to the wellbeing of students and staff at the college.
Current head of middle school Lauren Lee, who has served at the college for almost a decade, has been appointed acting principal, with AngliSchools to commence the recruitment process for a new principal in coming months.
DEPARTING: Cathedral College principal Nick Jones.
“F***ing pigs”:
Man abused police, security during court appearance
A Wangaratta man went on a disturbing tirade of abuse at police and court staff during an appearance at the local court late last year.
The court heard on 13 November last year the man was abusive to security guards when entering the court for a mention hearing.
His matter was called in the afternoon and following his appearance in court he abused the police prosecutors calling them “f***ing pigs” and slammed the door as he left.
He gave out further abuse to police and security as he left.
The defendant appeared in Wangaratta Magistrates Court this week and his defence counsel John Battiato said his client suffered from a range of medical conditions including complex PTSD connected to a failed relationship and he was diagnosed with cancer and leukemia.
The court heard the defendant had been remanded into custody for a week from 15 September after he presented to police unwell.
Magistrate Ian Watkins placed the man on a 12-month good behaviour bond and ordered he complied with treatment of medical professionals.
“You clearly were not well the day this incident occurred,” he said.
“People being subject or witness to that behaviour would’ve been annoyed or even frightened.”
Works on pedestrian crossings commence
Construction works for raised pedestrian crossings in Wangaratta’s central business district have begun, with the first phase focused on Ford Street.
Rural City of Wangaratta director community and infrastructure, Marcus Goonan, said the Ford Street works had commenced at the Murphy Street end of the road, to minimise any disruptions to this weekend’s Wangaratta Festival of Jazz and Blues.
“We are working under tight timeframes from the funding body to complete these works, and aim to have them finished before the
BY SIMONE KERWIN skerwin@ nemedia.com.au
Christmas period,” Mr Goonan said.
He said the decision to start the works at the Murphy Street end “ensures that the festival can proceed with minimal impact, while still allowing us to meet our deadlines and enhance pedestrian safety before the holiday rush”.
The works involve significant safety upgrades for pedestrians at four key locations in the CBD, made possible through the state govern-
ment’s Victorian Safe System Pedestrian Infrastructure Program.
Three new raised pedestrian crossings are being installed in the CBD by O’LEX Civil Construction, with an upgrade to the Ford Street zebra crossing north of the Murphy Street roundabout; a new wombat crossing at the Ovens Street/Ford Street roundabout, replacing the existing zebra crossing; and a new wombat crossing mid-block in Faithfull Street near Victoria Parade.
A new pedestrian-operated traffic signal is also set to be installed mid-block in Reid Street between
Ovens and Murphy Streets.
During construction, there will be temporary road closures, footpath diversions, and some reduced or restricted parking.
Detours will be clearly signed, and while through-traffic will be diverted, local access (including for customers) will be maintained wherever possible.
The Ford Street works at the Murphy Street end are due to continue until 10 November, followed by Faithfull Street from 11 to 26 November, and the Ford Street/ Ovens Street crossing between 27 November and 10 December.
Man hospitalised after Bowser Road collision
By BAILEY ZIMMERMANN
A man in his 50s was taken to hospital following a two-car collision on Bowser Road on Monday night.
An Ambulance Victoria spokesperson said paramedics were called to the incident at North Wangaratta at around 10pm.
They assessed and treated one patient on the scene and one man in his 50s was taken to Northeast Health Wangaratta with upper body injuries in a stable condition.
The incident occurred near the Burrows Street intersection, with Bowser Road closed in both directions throughout the duration of the incident.
Victoria Police and CFA also responded to the collision.
Glenrowan BESS
Second Community Drop-in Session
A Planning Application has been lodged with the Department of Transport and Planning (DTP) for a proposal to develop a Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) at 84 Glenwest Lane, Winton, connecting to the existing Glenrowan Terminal Station.
Come along to learn more about the project and speak to the project team! Light refreshments provided.
Date: Wednesday 12 November 2025 2:00 pm - 6:00 pm
Time:
Venue:
Glenrowan Recreation Reserve Hall, 5 Daniel Lane, Glenrowan VIC 3675
WORK COMMENCED: Works have started in Ford Street, and while the Murphy Street end is closed to traffic, pedestrian and vehicle access is still available this weekend from Ovens Street.
PHOTO: Jeff Zeuschner
The Victorian Government is delivering real help, right now with over 90 different savings benefits. Like free public transport for everyone under 18 with a Youth myki from January, with savings of up to $755 per child. Find out what you’re eligible for on the Service Victoria Savings Finder today.
Annual artists’ exhibition showcasing local talents
By JORDAN DUURSMA
The Wangaratta Artists Society (WAS) invites the community to experience the creativity and talent of local artists at their 2025 Annual Exhibition, which opened on Wednesday evening and runs until 4 November.
It is opened daily from 10am to 4pm at the Studio, 1a Tone Rd, Wangaratta.
This highly anticipated annual showcase features works from society members and participating artists, offering visitors the opportunity to view and purchase original artworks across various mediums and styles, including photography.
Entry is free but a gold coin donation is very much appreciated.
WAS member Robyn White said the artists have stepped up for this years’ exhibition.
“We always have great artworks but this year the quality is outstanding and the contributing artists have all created brand new works,” she said.
“Everyone should come see the exhibit, there are fresh artworks.”
Leonie Carr, who recently joined WAS, encouraged other local artists to come check out the exhibition and WAS.
“I has hesitant to join at first because I didn’t think I was good enough,” she said.
“Everyone here has been encouraging and supportive, offer-
turn’, which will be displayed throughout
ing advice when wanted.”
WAS continues to strengthen its educational offerings with an ambitious workshop program extending through 2026.
Confirmed instructors include established artists Terry Jarvis and Stephie Clark, with additional workshops planned featuring specialists in colour pencil, alcohol ink, and portrait techniques.
The society is also continuing its live portrait sessions in March 2026, providing artists with valu-
able life drawing experience and observational skill development.
Recent improvements to the WAS facilities include the establishment of a comprehensive art book library, carefully catalogued by volunteer Marina Foad.
The collection offers members access to valuable reference materials and educational resources.
Additionally, a new key safe system now provides members with flexible studio access outside regular hours, supporting artists’ var-
ied schedules and creative needs.
WAS remains committed to fostering artistic growth and community engagement through exhibitions, workshops, and educational initiatives that serve artists at all skill levels.
Membership is $70 per year and open to artists of all skill levels.
For more information about the 2025 Annual Exhibition or Wangaratta Artists Society programs, email publicity@wangartists.org. au.
Mobile services will be affected during upgrade to Telstra stations
Telstra will be upgrading its mobile base stations at Wangaratta South and Gapsted next week, temporarily affecting mobile services in the area.
The Wangaratta South station will be switched off for works from Monday to Thursday (3-6 November), with intermittent outages from Friday to Sunday (7–9 November).
The Gapsted station is being switched off on Wednesday/ Thursday (5/6 November) and will be off from 7am to 5pm on Friday, 7 November.
Telstra regional general manager Jenny Gray said the upgrades will bring a better 4G/5G user experience by improving the mobile site’s capacity, meaning faster downloads, smoother streaming and less congestion.
Telstra said landline services, NBN and satellite internet services, and mobile coverage from other providers will not be impacted during the works and any calls to Triple Zero from a Telstra mobile when the site is off air will automatically connect to another mobile network if available for connection to emergency services.
Telstra customers can continue to make calls and send texts during disruption to mobile services by switching on Wi-Fi Calling.
Business owners are encouraged to talk to their provider about connecting their EFTPOS terminals to their NBN or Wi-Fi connection to prevent delays in processing transactions.
based aged care organisation?
This role is suited to dedicated individuals looking to a make a difference in a wellestablished aged care organisation. A background with a strong focus on service delivery in a consumer-centred environment would also be advantageous.
Why Join Us? As a Board Director of Cooinda, you will play a crucial role in guiding the organisation’s strategic direction and ensuring we continue to provide exceptional services for older people.
About Cooinda: We are a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to enhancing the lives of people in our region by providing innovative, individualised care that reflects Benalla’s community life and individual needs.
Cooinda was established in 1969 by a small group of community members and volunteers as a secure place where older people could live. Today Cooinda provides a home and award-winning excellence in person centred care for up to 82 older people in a state-of-the-art facility.
Cooinda also provides community care services including domestic assistance, personal care, home care packages and short-term restorative care along with 67 on-site, independent retirement living villas offering traditional and modern living.
Cooinda supports each new Board member with a comprehensive induction. For those unable to commit to a Board member role, there may be opportunities to provide key support to the Board in our Clinical Governance, Development, Finance or Risk & Compliance committee’s.
QUALITY WORKS: Robyn White (left), Morgan Keith (centre) and Leonie Carr with Mary Ellis’ artwork ‘on the
the exhibition. TO: Jordan Duursma
A weekend of rhythm and community
This weekend, Wangaratta will come alive with the soulful sounds of jazz and blues as the 35th Wangaratta Festival of Jazz and Blues kicks off, bringing with it a vibrant celebration of music, culture and community spirit.
From the free community stage at Holy Trinity Cathedral to ticketed performances across town, the festival promises something for everyone.
The newly established festival hub at the cathedral grounds is a welcome addition, offering food and wine stalls from 15 local businesses, kids’ activities, and a relaxed atmosphere that reflects the heart of Wangaratta.
With performances at The Railyard, Wangaratta Performing Arts and Convention Centre, GOTAFE, and more, the town will be humming with energy.
The Tarra Blues Festival at Tarrawingee’s Plough Inn adds even more musical flavour to the weekend, while the Big Record Fair at the Wangaratta Club offers a treasure trove for vinyl and CD lovers.
Monday’s “Milawa Monday” rounds out the festivities with laid-back performances and local hospitality, just in time for Melbourne Cup eve.
And speaking of Cup Day, it’s just around the corner, with more excitement to mount next week.
As celebrations continue, local police will be present to ensure safety, so let’s all enjoy the weekend but celebrate responsibly.
The festivities this weekend are about more than just music, it’s a testament to Wangaratta’s resilience, creativity and community.
Whether you’re grooving to brass , relaxing at TarraBlues2 or digging through records, this weekend is a chance to connect and celebrate what makes Wangaratta truly special.
Visitor frustrated by parking app, drives on
I just want to express my absolute frustration with parking in Wangaratta.
I live in Caloundra Queensland.
Travelling down to Bendigo this week I decided to stop in at Wangaratta and have a bite to eat and a coffee.
When I pulled up in the main street, I noticed that there was a meter parking system so I grabbed a couple of dollars.
I went looking for the machines to pay the fine. None to be found.
I then noticed it was an app.
Under no circumstances am I gonna bother with an app just because I’m passing through.
Out of frustration, I jumped in my car and drove on.
Here I was thinking I would support a local business rather than a chain petrol station.
The local coffee shop missed out on selling me a meal and a coffee. Not a big deal.
However, I wonder how many others have done exactly what I did. I drove on.
Darren Love, Pelican Waters
Go nuclear, and stop destroying environment
I am not sure about Liberal Senator Andrew McLachlan’s attitude on net zero or where it comes from as I am sure he lives in a cocoon.
He says he is all for net zero by 2050 and for the environment.
Obviously, he has not been outside the city areas to look at solar or wind farms and seen the destruction of the environment.
Seems to me this net zero hoax is being promoted by wealthy billionaires which is highlighted by all the private jets which descend on the yearly COP meetings.
The Liberal Party should think beyond the media noise and enter the way the world is entering.
The technology of modular nuclear power stations is being well advanced and being installed in many overseas countries.
And we must immediately stop the continual installation of wind and solar farms by overseas investors with government subsidies.
Compare the footprint of a 100MWatt nuclear power plant which has a life of 60 plus years which provides power 24 hours everyday which is equivalent to a 300 MWatt solar farm which has a life of 25 years.
For example look at Blind Creek solar and battery which covers more than 700 hectares.
Why does Australian media not promote this new technology - are they ultraconservative fossils who no longer use investigative journalism?
John Walker, North Wangaratta
Supermarkets must honour cage-free pledge
Australia’s leading animal protection organisations have united to urge Woolworths and Coles to honour their longstanding commitments to go cage-free by the end of 2025.
BB KING TRIBUTE: Some 15 of the 100 guitars created for the Wangaratta Jazz & Blues community engagement project have already been decorated by artists of varying ages and ability. Project organiser David Godkin said they are currently on display in the Wangaratta Library but will be moved to the community hub outside the Holy Trinity Cathedral in readiness for the community workshops between noon and 3pm on the Saturday and Sunday of the festival Everyone is welcome to come along. You may even hear some BB King music while you’re there!
The supermarket giants first committed in 2013 to phasing out cage eggs from their supply chains, pledging that by 2025 all shell eggs and egg ingredients in own-brand products would be cage-free. However, earlier this year, both companies walked back those commitments – with Coles delaying its target to 2030 and Woolworths leaving the timeframe open ended.
This has undermined consumer trust and prolongs unnecessary animal suffering.
Battery cages are cruel and outdated. Modern cage-free systems, including fully indoor barn systems, can produce a reliable, affordable supply of eggs, without inflicting this level of suffering, We urge customers to raise their concerns with the supermarkets about this backward step – and we call on their leadership to uphold their promises to customers and Aussie hens.
Dr Jed Goodfellow, director, Australian Alliance for Animals Policy
It’s a start, but much more is still needed
Some 70,000 Australians with chronic kidney disease will be granted access to a medicine that works to slow further kidney damage in order to address spiralling rates of hospitalisation, dialysis and transplant across the country.
Kidney Health Australia has joined Boehringer Ingelheim and medical experts in welcoming news that from
1 November, Jardiance® (empagliflozin 10mg) will become available through the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) for the treatment of chronic kidney disease in a broad group of adults at moderate through to severe risk of their condition worsening.
While this listing is a major development in efforts to combat kidney disease, people can only be treated if they have been diagnosed, and 2.5 million Australians are living with signs of chronic kidney disease and have no idea.
Australia urgently needs to take action on chronic kidney disease through early diagnosis and treatment so that we can avoid preventable heart attacks and strokes, and delay life-threatening kidney failure and the need for dialysis.
Chris Forbes, Kidney Health Australia chief executive officer
Email
Facebook users this week commented on the cancellation of this year’s Wangaratta Regfest rodeo component due to ongoing monitoring of the rodeo grounds.
Paul Groves: I see you conveniently skipped over the fact the Rodeo is cancelled. Unacceptable. There needs to be the option for ticket refunds.
Ray Baker: Rodeo was the main attraction
Tim Chalmers: Well I was only going for the rodeo not for regfest
Nathan Andrew: Monitoring for what exactly
Peter Myers: WOW.... That’s a big call which will make quite a few unhappy. A few cheap tickets for sale now
Tracey Louise: Was the only reason I had brought tickets!! Absolutely ridiculous decision
Hayley Currie: Tracey Louise yep me too, the first rodeo before regfest came
was cancelled due to some lame reason too! Progress economy what that again?
Robert Rosicka: Say what ? The cemetery is expanding on top of a landfill site does that mean there won’t be any more graves dug .
Sazzy Larkins: No one cares about the music its a sideshow to the rodeo. Pathetic decision once again by a council who over charge ridiculous rates and give us useless purple bins
Facebook users this week also commented on a driver who’s black sedan was impounded after being caught at more than 100km/h over the speed limit in Wangaratta.
Troy Harrison: Crush the car nd take his licence for 3 to 5 years. Bloody idiot Trevor Dawson: Serves him right Josie Hurley: Good job Craig McDonald: Sell tickets to people who want to watch it get crushed. Have your say
This sweet little man was in for his routine yearly blood test. Annual blood tests ensure long-term medication is working well and not causing any side effects to organs.
Our Seventeenth Exhibition by quilters within the Rural City of Wangaratta .
Friday 31st October to Monday 3rd November, 2025
Time 10.00 am to 4.00 pm each day.
Inquiries:
Barb 0467445973
Leonie 0403226129
Helen 0458131156
Entry to the Show $5.00
Quilt displays, Devonshire teas, craft sales for charity, raffle quilt, extra raffle prizes.
DUSTY
Grayson Engineering (Fabrication)
SPEAKER: Guest speaker Dr Theresa Cook shared insights into advancements in breast cancer treatment and the importance of early detection.
Community rallies for breast cancer awareness at Pink Ribbon Breakfast
By JORDAN DUURSMA
More than $2600 was raised on Monday morning when 150 community members gathered at the Quality Hotel Wangaratta Gateway for the annual Pink Ribbon Breakfast, hosted by the Wangaratta Volunteer Group in support of Cancer Council Victoria.
The event, held from 7:30am to 9:30am, featured guest speaker Dr Theresa Cook, a respected radiation oncologist, who shared insights into advancements in breast cancer treatment and the importance
of early detection.
Attendees enjoyed a morning of connection, awareness, and fundraising, with proceeds supporting vital breast cancer research and support services.
Organiser Barb Thomas expressed her gratitude for the strong community turnout and generous support.
“We are thrilled with this wonderful support from the community and it is so encouraging for those who have survived the breast cancer journey and who are going through this journey,” she said.
PRETTY IN PINK: (Back) Wendy Pyle, Fran Carracher, Kerry Steel, Maureen Doig, (front) Cheryl Merritt, Sue Tennant, Vicki Braden and Lyndall Basker.
FUNDRAISING: Angela Giglio, Elane Broadway and Gloria Clewer.
GATHERING FOR A CAUSE: Robyn Tipping, Janine Ponter, Wendy Stephens, Heather Champlin and Lorna Hill.
SUPPORT: Cheryl Hansen, Judi Pleming and Carole Martin.
VOLUNTEERS: Cancer Council Wangaratta volunteers (from left) Linda Cork, Janet James, Barb Thomas, Robyn Dunstan and Heather Champlin received their service awards. TOS: Jordan Duursma
COMMUNITY: (Back) Marianne Franke, Dorothy Wise, Barb Crockett, Liz Cooper, (front) Kaye Connor, Suzann Lyon, Margot Joy and Christine Grounds.
LUCKY DIP: Cancer Council volunteer Barb Thomas announcing the raffle winners.
PINK RIBBON BREAKFAST: 150 community members, including (from left) Pat Bishop, Sue Clayton and Jaqui West, gathered on Monday of the annual Pink Ribbon Breakfast.
CONNECTION: ALICE DUNCAN AND IVY MAIDEN.
King Valley Challenge in November
The 16th King Valley Challenge will be held on Sunday, 23 November at Lake William Hovell, with entries open until Thursday, 20 November.
The 3km, 6km and 15km runs can be done as stand-alone events but those wanting a serious multisport challenge can run 15km, kayak 12km, road ride 39km and run 3.6km, as an individual or as a team.
Pizzini Wines is again the major sponsor with cash up for grabs for the solo competitors and team prizes on offer too.
A training day will be held this Sunday, 2 November with a run and kayak training and lessons available and more information at https://northeastsports.com.au/ king-valley-challenge-home.
Mansfield District Hospital
Auxiliary Annual Art Show
The 47th year annual Mansfield District Hospital Auxiliary Annual Art Show will be held at the Mansfield Masonic Hall in Highett Street on the Melbourne Cup Weekend.
There will be up to 200 exhibits to admire or purchase, displaying works of local and national artists, with awards to be announced by internationally acclaimed artist Tony Pridham on Friday night.
The exhibition will open to the public from Saturday to Monday and entry is $2.
Chiltern Artist Collective art exhibition
The Chiltern Court House and Chiltern Artist Collective is once again having an art exhibition at the Chiltern Courthouse on Saturday, 1 November and Sunday, 2 November from 10am to 4pm. See and buy items from regional artists with a variety of mediums on display such as paintings, drawings, ceramics, sculpture and photography.
The 14 history panels depicting law and order in the Chiltern district will also be on display, with the old gaol behind the courthouse open for viewing and to hear stories of the past.
CREATIVITY AND COMMUNITY:
St Bernard’s Primary School, including staff member Kristyn McAsey (left) and principal Patricia Boak, are inviting the community to celebrate the opening night of their art and photography show next week. The evening will be filled with creativity, conversation, and community, on Friday, 7 November from 7pm at the primary school on Williams Road, with tickets costing $35. The exhibition will be run 8-9 November from 10am-3pm with an entry fee of $5, and a makers market will be held on the Sunday from 10am-3pm.
A united approach can help stamp out harmful behaviour
A new program, STAND, delivered in partnership by Centre Against Violence and the Rural City of Wangaratta, with support from the Victorian government’s Free from Violence Program, aims to give individual community members the confidence to make a stand when another person is being disrespected or threatened.
The STAND community event focuses on building confidence and learning strategies to prevent harmful behaviours, support others, and strengthen community safety.
It is a space for reflection, conversation, and collaboration, designed to leave you with realistic strategies you can use every day to help create a safer, more connected community.
For Allison Winters, the STAND program is needed now more than ever before.
“Even with the amount of work that has happened over the last couple of centuries for equality and justice, we need this training within our communities so people feel empowered to do the right thing,”
Allison said.
“My pronouns are they/them.
someone is advocating for someone else, it can feel isolated.
“It can feel lonely to be the only person speaking up,” they said.
“The advice I always give is this: when someone is brave enough to speak, stand with them.
“Add your voice, let them know they are not alone.
“That kind of solidarity makes all the difference.”
There will be two community information sessions to choose from, Monday, 1 December from 6pm to 8pm, or Wednesday, 3 December from noon to 2pm at the Wangaratta Performing Arts and Convention Centre.
The free, interactive two-hour workshops are open to everyone in the community.
They go beyond theory, offering hands-on learning, real examples, and practical tools.
“For me, respect means celebrating diversity.
“Everyone is different, everyone has different needs, and we should be celebrating the difference in our community.
“I am the executive officer at LINE Wangaratta and a councillor for the Rural City of Wangaratta.
“Safety needs a partnership approach, with many organisations working together.
“When we do, we can achieve so much more than when we are working alone.”
So often, Allison said, when
“Safety is not something that one organisation can achieve on its own.
They will explore why noticing and responding matters, how to recognise early signs of harmful behaviour, and how to “call out” or “call in” in safe and respectful ways.
Registrations are essential and close on Friday, 28 November 2025.
To secure your place or learn more, visit https://events.humanitix.com/stand.
PHOTO: Jordan Duursma
ARMED FOR CHANGE: Allison Winters believes we need the STAND training
SPRING IS IN FULL SWING FOR THE JACKY WINTER
By IAN DAVIDSON and CHRIS TZAROS
Many of our Australian birds have weird and whacky names and one may well ponder over their origins.
An example of this is the Jacky Winter – a small insect-eating bird that belongs to the family of Australian robins.
Despite looking and behaving like a robin, some ornithologists have previously treated this species as a flycatcher, even naming it the Brown Flycatcher for a time, although it isn’t really brown (it is more grey) and it’s not really a flycatcher! Confused? So are we…
So, how did the Jacky Winter get its name?
It all comes down to its distinctive call which, with a bit of imagination, sounds like ‘Jacky, Jacky, Jacky –Winter, Winter, Winter’.
Along with most other small songbirds, Jacky Winters are most vocal during spring, singing to establish a breeding territory early in the season, then continuing to sing right throughout the remainder of their
breeding period.
They often call from the tops of dead trees and other exposed perches such as fence posts and fallen branches, especially at dawn but also regularly throughout the day.
Occupying areas of lightly timbered open woodland, locally Jacky Winters are found in areas fringing the Warby Range, the Barambogie Ranges and the Chiltern forests, however they also inhabit some areas of well-treed farmland, usually bordering roads or creeklines.
They prefer habitats with an open shrub layer with areas of bare ground and patches of leaf-litter and debris.
Jacky Winters take prey such as flies, moths, butterflies, beetles, termites and crickets.
They typically forage by sallying out from low perches such as a fallen branch, stump, post or wire, chasing insects on fluttering low flights and
picking insects out of the air, from foliage, or from the ground, always returning to another perch to repeat the procedure.
At times, they may appear nervous as they restlessly swing their tail from side to side, but when perched they are actually rather confiding and can often be approached quite closely.
Jacky Winters are known to construct unusually tiny nests – among the smallest in proportion to their body size of any Australian bird.
From July to September, both sexes contribute to building a frail saucer of fine grasses, rootlets and sometimes hair, bound together with cobweb and decorated with lichen or bark, and lined with finer fibres and feathers.
They build their nests high on a large bare branch or horizontal fork.
Once the female has laid her two to three eggs, both her and her mate incubate the eggs for around 18 days until hatching.
Again, both parents share the task of raising the young until they fledge, which is around another 18 days.
SPRING DELGHT: A female Jacky Winter sitting on her tiny nest.
PHOTO: Chris Tzaros (Birds Bush and Beyond)
WHAT’S ON THIS WEEKEND
Overland exhibition at Wangaratta Art Gallery
The first solo hometown exhibition of nationally acclaimed, Wangarattaborn artist Matthew Harris, is being presented at the Wangaratta Art Gallery until 18 January.
The Melbourne-based artist creates thought-provoking works in painting and sculpture that critically examine social power structures and historical narratives.
His exhibition, Overland unpacks the lasting impact of colonisation on the Wangaratta region and its First Peoples, in a new series of paintings informed by historical documents, alongside textile sculpture With a Warm Embrace, 2023; part of the Wangaratta Art Gallery collection.
There there by
Mat Vaughan
A NEW series of large-scale paintings by North East Victorian artist Mat Vaughan are being exhibited at the Wangaratta Art Gallery in Gallery 2.
For Vaughan, the phrase “there there” carries a dual weight; it soothes, it signals, it seeks - his works offering the viewer the space to step into a moment where the world seems to stop, when one’s breathing comes to the fore and one lives precisely in the present.
There there can be seen in Gallery 2 until 9 November.
Wangaratta community market
The Wangaratta community market runs every Sunday (except Easter Sunday) at Moore Than Swimming, located at 11-13 Mason Street in Wangaratta, from 8am until 1pm.
There are a wide range of stalls to browse with new and used items, plants, fruit and veg and more, with refreshments available.
Stalls are available for just $20 each (no bookings required) and car boot sales are welcome for $15, with more information via the market’s Facebook page or call Sheree on 0401 665 886.
Explore Horizons by Ninetta Santoro
The collection of landscapes and interiors explore the concept of ‘horizon’ and its many facets.
Ninetta said the works in this collection were mainly created over the last 12 months, and the inspiration comes from her observation of landscapes and their horizons - the point at which the sky meets the land or the sea.
“But the work is also inspired by the things and objects that surround us in our daily lives,” she said.
“In a sense, these things reflect the horizons we set for ourselves, and how they in turn, shape our daily lives, our understandings and our choices.”
Ninetta says printmaking is an art form enabling the transfer of
BY ANITA McPHERSON amcpherson@ nemedia.com.au
an image from a plate onto paper, and while she uses plates made of lino, wood and metal, she mainly creates and uses cardboard plates, or collagraphs.
“I carve lines and shapes into my collagraph plates and apply a variety of textures to them before they are inked and printed from,” she explains.
“This printmaking technique lends itself to a unique and painterly type of print that is rich in texture.
“I often experiment by overlaying collagraph prints with etching or I make prints on transparent Japanese rice paper to use with other media such as watercolour and acrylic.”
Ninetta says the collection invites viewers to step into the landscapes and to simply enjoy the colours and shapes of nature.
She said it also encourages viewers to ask questions of the interior scenes and still lifes, and reflect on the horizons portrayed.
“Importantly, I also hope that the collection - and the plates that are exhibited alongside the artworks - will help to educate visitors about printmaking techniques and deepen their appreciation of printmaking as an art form,” she said.
Horizons can be seen at the Art Gallery on Ovens in the laneway off Murphy Street in Wangaratta, open Thursday to Monday, until 10 November and entry is free.
The community is invited to come and meet the artist on Saturday, 1 November from 12pm to 2pm and find out more about her work.
Jazz riverside market on Sunday
The Milawa Oxley Rotary Club will hold its annual Jazz Riverside Market in Apex Park on Sunday, 2 November from 9am to 2pm.
Browse more than 60 market stalls showcasing local wares including arts and crafts, home and giftwares, along with local produce and much more.
All British and Classic Car Show at Winton
The British and Classic Car Show will be held at Winton Raceway on Sunday, 2 November from 10am to 2pm.
The event is a featured experience within the Hi-Tec Oils Super Series, celebrating automotive heritage and performance, where visitors can explore a diverse range of vehicles, from timeless classics and everyday favourites to high-end performance machines.
There will also be three days of racing from Friday through until Sunday as part of the Winton Wrap, with more information at wintonraceway.com.au.
Birchwood Near Benalla Open Garden
The annual Birchwood Near Benalla Open Garden event will be held on Saturday, 1 November and Sunday, 2 November at 653 Odea Road, Molyullah, open from 10am to 5pm.
The garden features salvias, iris, peonies, spring bulbs and more, with lunch, morning and afternoon teas available, a performance by the Rose City Band on Saturday and the Benalla Classical Guitar ensemble on Sunday.
There will also be plant sales, crafts, garden art, mosaics, glass and more, with entry $10 and all proceeds supporting Cancer Council Victoria and the Benalla and Wangaratta hospitals.
2023 Winner Brooke Whelan
TO: Anita McPherson
A new exhibition by experimental printmaker Ninetta Santoro has opened at the Art Gallery on Ovens in Wangaratta.
Inspiring quilts and crafts to enjoy at Strictly Quilts
Volunteers have been busy this week hanging more than 55 quilts which will be on display as part of the 17th Strictly Quilts exhibition being held at the Uniting Church hall in Rowan Street this weekend.
The combined quilting groups of the Rural City of Wangaratta are once again presenting their annual quilting and patchwork exhibition, where visitors will be able to feast their eyes on spectacular, colourful quilts created by local crafters in a wide variety of styles and designs.
All participating quilters are either residents of the rural city, or members of quilting groups located in the Wangaratta region, who share a passion for the textile artform.
This year there’s another outstanding collection of quilts in both traditional and contemporary designs, plus beautiful handmade items to purchase including placemats, tea cosies, oven mitts and more.
Many of the quilts on display are quite complex and challenging in their design showcasing the expertise of the maker, so there is plenty to inspire both the novice
BY ANITA McPHERSON amcpherson@ nemedia.com.au
and more experienced sewer.
Each quilt also has a card alongside it which explains the quilter’s inspiration and where the pattern can be found.
An added feature this year is the display of the Strictly Quilts challenge entitled “Circles” featuring small scale quilts responding to the theme.
The exhibition will be opened on Friday night by talented quilter and textile artist, Donna Hughes, and visitors to the event over the weekend will have the chance to buy a ticket in a raffle to win twin quilts made and donated by Donna, or a hamper laden with local produce.
Funds raised from the handicrafts stall will go towards the Breast Care Nurse Service.
Strictly Quilts will be held at the Uniting Church Hall in Rowan Street from Friday, 31 October to Monday, 3 November, open from 10am to 4pm each day, and entry is $5.
CRAFTS GALORE: Quilters Ros Janas and Carole Ockendon with some of the beautifully handcrafted wares which will be on sale at the stall during Strictly Quilts, with funds raised supporting the Breast Care Nurse Service.
Oxley Bush Market Saturday
Admire works at King Valley Art Show Jazz exhibition at Wangaratta Museum
The 2025 King Valley Art Show will be held at King River Brewing from November 1 to 3, with about 300 artworks on display.
The grand opening will be held on Friday, 31 October at 7pm, where award winners will be announced by this year’s judge, Melbourne-based artist, Ben Winspear.
More than 115 artists will be
represented at the exhibition with artworks in a variety of mediums including oil, acrylic, pastel, works on paper, printmaking, watercolour and more.
Tickets for the opening are available via Humanitix or visit kingvalleyarts.com.au, with the exhibition open Saturday and Sunday from 10am to 5pm and on Monday from 10am to 3pm and entry $3.
The Wangaratta Historical Society and Museum is hosting an exhibition to complement the Wangaratta Festival of Jazz and Blues, featuring jazz festival memorabilia and celebrating the music scene in Wangaratta and its surrounds from the 1960s, 1970s and 1980s.
The museum located at 29 Ford Street (the Old Fire Station) will be open daily until
for the month of October
161 Vincent Road, Wangaratta (03) 5722 2253 northeastfurniture.com.au
Tuesday, 4 November, from 10am to 1pm.
There will also be a one-hour historic guided walk of Wangaratta on Saturday, 1 November leaving from Marmungun Rock in Apex Park at 10am, covering approximately three kilometres, and ending at the museum, with registrations essential by visiting the museum’s Facebook page and scanning the QR code.
The 44th Annual Oxley Bush Market to be held on Saturday, 1 November from 9am to 2.30pm. There will be 160 stalls to browse showcasing a range of home-made, home-produced, home-grown, upcycled and new items, with a particular focus on supporting local producers and makers.
There will also be gourmet food trucks and stalls, entertainment by local musicians and buskers, and a monster raffle, with entry free and all welcome.
Cheshunt Flower Show on Sunday
The Cheshunt Hall and Recreation Reserve committee will present the annual Flower Show at the Cheshunt Hall on Sunday, 2 November from 9am to 3pm.
Enter your own exhibits or just come and enjoy the beautiful displays and delicious afternoon tea, with entry by gold coin donation.
For enquiries about entries and stall sites (no fee) contact Kayleen on 0417 522 059.
Wangaratta Artists Society 2025 exhibition
The Wangaratta Artists Society’s 2025 annual exhibition has opened at The Studio in Bachelor’s Green. This highly anticipated annual showcase will feature works from society members and participating artists, offering visitors the opportunity to view and purchase original artworks across a variety of mediums and styles.
The exhibition runs from October 29 to November 4, open daily from 10am to 4pm and entry is free, but a gold coin donation would be appreciated.
Women in Motion event empowers local women at Wangaratta Toyota
Wangaratta Toyota was proud to host its Women in Motion event on Thursday, 23 October, bringing together women from across the community for an engaging and empowering night focused on vehicle maintenance, safety, and confidence on the road.
The event, held at the Wangaratta Toyota dealership, featured hands-on demonstrations, practical advice from service technicians, and an open forum where attendees could ask questions in a relaxed and supportive environment.
Guests enjoyed an evening filled with learning, laughter, and giveaways.
Dealer principal Dean Jacob said they wanted to create a space where women could
feel comfortable learning more about their vehicles.
“From basic checks to understanding road rules,” he said.
“It’s all about empowerment, safety, and community connection.”
Wangaratta Toyota also extended a special thanks to the Wangaratta Police and the local community for their incredible support in making the night a success.
The Women in Motion initiative is part of Wangaratta Toyota’s broader commitment to supporting education, inclusivity, and confidence for all drivers on Australian roads.
service technicians.
For more information about future community events at Wangaratta Toyota, visit www.facebook.com/wangarattatoyota/.
ENGAGING EVENT: Local women gathered for an evening of education, safety and connection. PRACTICAL ADVICE: The event included hands-on demonstrations, practical advice and question time.
BUILDING CONFIDENCE: Wangaratta Toyota hosted a Women in Motion event to empower women
Peaceful rural lifestyle on 120 acres
Nestled within the tranquil rural landscape of Boweya North, ‘Pengilleys’ presents an exceptional opportunity to embrace country living at its finest.
Set on approximately 120 acres of gently undulating land, this property combines space, serenity and sustainability with an inviting family home and impressive infrastructure.
The three-bedroom residence, complete with study, exudes warmth and character.
The main bedroom offers a private retreat with walk-in robe and ensuite,
while the country-style kitchenfeaturing a Bosky combustion stove, Bosch dishwasher and striking parquetry floors - forms the heart of the home.
Light-filled living areas with hardwood floors, a Jindara wood heater, evaporative cooling and ceiling fans ensure comfort through all seasons.
Outdoor living is a true highlight, with a large rear verandah, covered entertaining area and sparkling 11m x 4.5m inground pool set against picturesque rural vistas.
Extensive shedding includes a
four-car carport, workshop, art studio, machinery shed with mezzanine, cool room and bird aviary - ideal for hobbyists or trades.
With six main paddocks, native pastures, catchment dams, 130,000L rainwater storage, 4.8kW solar system and reliable Starlink internet, ‘Pengilleys’ offers a self-sufficient lifestyle within easy reach of Wangaratta, Yarrawonga and Benalla - a peaceful haven where rural charm meets modern convenience.
For enquiries call Garry Nash & Co Real Estate.
3+1 2 4
Agent | Garry Nash & Co Phone | 5722 2663
Price | $1,275,000
Land | 48.43 ha (119.67 acres) approx
Location | 1605 Almonds Road, Boweya North
Wangaratta 3/21 Cusack Street
Wangaratta 94 Templeton Street
Harcourts Wangaratta
Harcourts Wangaratta
Harcourts Wangaratta
Harcourts Wangaratta
Harcourts Wangaratta
Harcourts Wangaratta
Harcourts Wangaratta
Harcourts Wangaratta
Joe McKenzie Paul Reid Hugh Amery Danial Siperki Sam Lyster
Peaceful Country Retreat
Set amid established gardens and mature trees, this charming weatherboard home offers a tranquil country lifestyle in the heart of Whorouly. Positioned on approximately 2,054m², the property is beautifully presented with manicured rose gardens, hedges and lush green surrounds creating a true rural sanctuary.
Inside, the home features four bedrooms and a warm, inviting atmosphere. The lounge includes polished timber floorboards, while the kitchen and dining areas showcase classic slate flooring that enhances the home’s country appeal. Comfort is assured year-round with split system heating and cooling, complemented by septic and a reliable 22m approx. well for water supply.
Outdoor living is equally impressive, featuring a covered alfresco area perfect for entertaining, a swimming pool for summer enjoyment and a powered shed with concrete floor offering generous workshop and garage space.
Conveniently located just 33km from Wangaratta, 17km from Milawa and 20km from Myrtleford, this delightful property provides the ideal blend of peace, charm and practicality—perfect for those seeking a relaxed rural lifestyle with close access to the gourmet food and wine experiences of the Milawa region.
Authorities urging campfire safety
Authorities are urging campers venturing into local forests and parks this Melbourne Cup weekend to learn about campfire safety before they go.
The Conservation Regulator Victoria, CFA, Parks Victoria, and Forest Fire Management Victoria (FFMVic) are warning than just one unattended or poorly managed campfire can cause serious environmental damage and put lives and property at risk.
They’re also encouraging people to check the weather forecast – especially the projected wind speeds – before heading out.
Scott Turner, acting chief fire officer, Forest Fire Management
Living legends rapt AFL game is back in city
Friday, 30 October, 2015
By SHANE DOUTHIE
Two premiership players from AFL clubs North Melbourne and St Kilda are as excited as local footy fans about the impending pre-season match between the Roos and the Saints in Wangaratta on 20 February next year.
John Byrne (North Melbourne premiership 1977) and Bob Murray (St Kilda premiership 1966) said the benefits of such a game were many, but it was not a new initiative.
“We played a few practice matches up here when I was at North and this was their recruiting zone,” John told the Wangaratta Chronicle yesterday.
“I remember playing one at Benalla and one at Wodonga.
“It’s changed a bit since then, there is only six or seven clubs in regional Victoria that can meet the standards required by the AFL these days and, thankfully, Wangaratta is one of them.”
John, who is chairman of the AFL North East Border which will be assisting the Rural City of Wangaratta in organising the event, said such a high profile match is ‘good for football’.
“It raises money for local clubs and it is a great promotion of the region as well,” he said.
“It’s a good kick-off for the local footy scene... it means it’s
Victoria, said people need to make sure their campfire is put out correctly by extinguishing it completely with water, not soil.
“We want everyone to enjoy their visit to our forests and parks this weekend, but if you have a campfire, it’s crucial that you put it out properly when you leave,” he said.
“Putting soil on top of a campfire does not extinguish it – you must use water.
“Fires that haven’t been properly extinguished can smoulder under soil for days and reignite in the warm and windy conditions.
“Before you light a fire always check fire restrictions, includ-
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ing whether a Total Fire Ban is in place.
“Download the VicEmergency app or go to www.emv.vic.gov. au.”
Mr Turner said people who breach campfire regulations on public land face a maximum penalty of $19,759 if the matter is prosecuted in court.
He said the maximum penalty for lighting or maintaining a fire during a day of Total Fire Ban is $47,421.60 and/or two years in jail. People can report unattended campfires to DEECA at 136 186 or call 000 to report a bushfire.
For more on campfire rules go to: https://www.vic.gov.au/ campfires-stoves-and-bbqs
time to get your memberships and get the kids down to the local clubs.”
Bob said the promotion of the sport was important due to the value of football clubs to our society.
“Footy is an important part of the community,” he said.
“They are somewhere where families can all get involved... it’s a cornerstone of country life.
“You really should want your kids to get involved in team sports.
“The match will also showcase our facilities here, which are wonderful.”
While John said local numbers involved in footy
remain strong, the pressure on small country clubs to survive was immense, so the game and its promotion needed to be “tweaked” to keep the sport in people’s minds.
It also offers diehard fans, just like these experienced campaigners, a chance to see their clubs’ teams up close and hopefully impress enough to begin early talk of finals footy.
“I want to see North keep improving,” John said.
Bob also liked what he saw about the Saints last year.
“I like the way they’ve gone for youth,” he said.
“I was impressed with their effort last year and young kids are getting a bit of experience.”
Financial wellbeing isn’t about perfection, it’s about feeling prepared. One of the easiest ways to build that confidence is to set up a surprise fund. Unexpected expenses can happen to anyone. For Hannah, a teacher from Wangaratta, it was a sudden car repair the week before Christmas. “It wasn’t huge, but it threw me,” she says. “I hadn’t planned for it, so I had to dip into money I’d set aside for gifts and groceries.”
That moment became her turning point. With a friend’s encouragement, Hannah opened a separate savings account for life’s little surprises. She started with just $20 a fortnight. Even a small buffer made her feel more in control.
A surprise fund is not about knowing what’s coming. It’s about giving yourself room to breathe when the unexpected happens. Maybe it’s a lastminute dentist appointment, a leaking tap or a school excursion you forgot was coming up. These things pop up all the time. Having something set aside makes them easier to manage.
TAKE THE FIRST STEP:
Start your surprise fund today - you never know when life will throw you a curveball.
Many Hume Bank customers are now including surprise funds in their budgets. It’s a habit that takes the pressure off when life veers off course. You can use it when you need it, then top it up again when you’re ready. At Hume Bank, we believe every small step counts.
A surprise fund is a simple way to feel more prepared when life throws you the unexpected. By setting aside a small amount regularly, is a powerful move toward becoming your own financial hero.
Daniel WHITEHOUSE
LIVING LEGENDS: AFL premiership players (from left) Bob Murray (St Kilda, 1966) and John Byrne (North Melbourne, 1977) are looking forward to the blockbuster pre-season match between the Saints and Roos on February 20 next year at the Norm Minns Oval. PHOTO: Luke Plummer
BE PREPARED: Authorities are urging campers not to leave campfires unattended.
The spirit of giving shines even brighter
The Give a Gift Appeal is back, and it’s even bigger in 2025.
UMFC, Centre Against Violence (CAV), and Gateway Health have joined forces to bring joy to the children and young people they support.
With the expanded partnership, this year’s appeal aims to reach even more children and young people in need, ensuring they experience the joy and magic of Christmas in the festive period.
The generosity of communities last year saw almost 300 children and young people across the region delivered gifts, with another 40 children supported through sharing of donations with other community organisations.
“These gifts went far beyond toys and supplies,” said Jess Blum from UMFC.
“For children and young people facing trauma, poverty, discrimination, family separation, and other hardships, each gift was a symbol of hope.
“Whether it was homewares for a young person beginning their journey into independent living or a toy for a child who has experienced family violence, every donation carried a powerful message: you are seen, you are valued, and your future matters.”
Ms Blum said this year’s ap-
peal is again being powered by the kindness of everyday community members, families, businesses, and local groups.
“We are deeply grateful for the support of Indi federal MP Helen Haines, Hume Bank, Oak FM, Wangaratta Knights Rugby League, Beechworth Correctional Centre, Wangaratta West Primary, F&S Real Estate, Boomerang Bags Wangaratta, and CWA Boorhaman, who continue to champion community-led in-
itiatives like this one,” she said. Individuals, workplaces, and community groups are being encouraged to get involved by: spreading the word; collecting gifts and supplies (new toys, sporting equipment, school supplies, or gift cards); or dropping off donations at UMFC Wangaratta (36 Mackay St) or Gateway Health (45-47 Mackay St) or any Hume Bank branch across the region, from November.
You can also make a monetary
donation by visiting the the Give a Gift Appeal page (https://umfc. com.au/donation/donationsgive-a-gift/) to contribute funds that will go toward gift vouchers, experiences, Christmas items, school supplies, and other identified needs.
Donations are being accepted from November and all contributions must be received on or before 8 December.
For more information or to donate call (02) 6055 8000.
the region
The North East Water First Nations Art Prize has returned for 2025, with this year’s collection now on display at the Burraja Cultural Centre on Gateway Island, Wodonga.
Held every two years, the exhibition brings together works from talented Aboriginal artists from across North East Victoria and the border region.
North East Water managing director, Jo Murdoch, said the exhibition is a proud collaboration with Murray Arts, Burraja Gallery and the North East Catchment Management Authority (NECMA), celebrating the deep cultural significance of water in First Nations communities.
“This is our sixth art prize since 2017, and each year it grows in meaning and impact,” Ms Murdoch said.
“It’s a privilege to work alongside local First Nations artists and organisations to honour the stories, traditions and connections that water represents.”
North East Water has once again selected a standout piece from the exhibition to be permanently displayed at its Wodonga headquarters, continuing a tradition of showcasing First Nations art in its workplace.
Ms Murdoch said this year’s art prize has been awarded to Tamara Murray (Maurara Barkindji, Yorta Yorta, Duduroa) for Yorta Yorta Dreaming.
“The diversity and quality of all artwork this year is exceptional, and it reflects the incredible talent and cultural depth of artists from across our region,” she said.
An additional prize was awarded this year for a piece supported by NECMA, further highlighting and celebrating the work of local artists.
Lauren Black, executive director of Murray Arts, said this event is a cornerstone project for the organisation.
The exhibition is open to the public up until Friday, 7 November, at the Burraja Cultural Centre, Gateway Island, Wodonga.
Trekking far and wide for prems
By GRACE FREDSBERG
Wangaratta mum Steph Lloyd is one of thousands of parents nationwide to deliver their newborn prematurely.
Being something so close to her heart, Steph and her family have been travelling down to Melbourne to participate in the annual Walk for Prems for the past two years.
This year, she didn’t have to travel so far.
The inaugural Wangaratta Walk for Prems event at Norm Minns Oval on Thursday, 16 October was well-supported by the local community, including participation from local families of premature or sick children, advocates passionate about the charity, in addition to two Wangaratta councillors.
It was the first time attending a Walk for Prems for Shannon Cutler, a Benalla mum of two preemie babies, Jack (four) and Madison (one).
“When I saw them doing the regional bits, I thought it would be good,” she said.
For herself, and undoubtedly many other parents from rural and regional Australia, resources for and about premature newborns are quite scarce.
“It wasn’t until I had a prem myself that I started becoming across it,” she said.
“Wodonga had Ronald McDonald House which was helpful, but Wangaratta – there wasn’t as much.”
It couldn’t have been a better year for Wangaratta to get involved, with the event passing through as part of Walk for Prems’ bold new fundraising initiative,
‘The Mighty Trek Challenge’.
To commemorate the 20th anniversary of Life’s Little Treasures Foundation, the challenge involves select participants pushing a NICU incubator from town-to-town from Sydney to Melbourne.
In total, the NICU incubator will travel 900km through NSW and Victoria.
For Steph, participating in the event is a way to carry on her daughter Summer’s legacy, who tragically passed away after being born prematurely alongside her twin sister Harper, who is now eight years old.
“Her and Summer were born at 30 weeks gestation,” Steph said.
“Summer had severe restrictive growth so she was the size of a 24-
week baby at only 596 grams.”
Steph hopes her advocacy will uplift those who may have endured similar experiences.
“I know other people are going through or will face future experiences similar to mine and have maybe not as much of a support network as me,” she said.
“I want to also talk and let people
know that Summer existed, I want to do good things in her name and honour her.”
Felicia Welstead, CEO of Life’s Little Treasures said Steph has been an amazing advocate for Life’s Little Treasures in raising awareness of what families endure when they have a (preemie) baby.
“They often come down to Melbourne, but we’ve brought the event to their hometown today, which I think is amazing.”
Alongside the traditional, in-person mode of participation, supporters of the cause can also take part at their own pace with the ability to compete virtually.
To register and for more information about The Mighty Trek Challenge, visit themightytrek.org.au.
EMPOWERING PREEMIE FAMILIES: Fairlie (left) and Dan Exintaris, with daughter Sutton and newborn son Avery who were both born prematurely, attended the first Wangaratta ‘Walk for Prems’ event as Life’s Little Treasures ambassadors.
TOS: Adrian Vaughan, Noisebox Productions
SWITCHED ON: Appin Park students Thomas Cottier and Lewis Chilcott were deeply engrossed in their football game.
Creative activities
Appin Park Primary School
Students are encouraged to turn off their screens and tune into activities including board games, creating art pieces and engaging with their peers, during any down time in the classroom.
If they have completed all work requirements by Friday afternoon, they may be given the time to take part in activities of their choice, and it is always pleasing to see them use their imaginations, work together and try different things.
It helps them to develop their creativity and communication skills and aids personal growth.
Bake for Project 365
Cathedral College Wangaratta
Three year 2 students, with the guidance of their teacher, decided to fundraise for Project 365 through a traditional bake sale.
With muffins, cakes, cookies and honey joys, they exceeded their goal of $100, raising $580.
Well done indeed.
BAKE SUCCESS: Celebrating their fundraising efforts were (back, from left) Michael Braendler, Nick Jones and Hannah Wall with (front, from left) students Eliana Bennett, Harriet Lipshut and Isabella Hawthorne.
Outdoor adventure
Yarrunga Primary School
The year 5/6 classes have just returned from adventuring at Borrambola Sport and Recreation camp.
Over three days everyone got to try their hand at kayaking, rock climbing, raft building, archery and much more, like the Mud Run. It was great to spend some quality time with each other as term four rolls on and the end of primary school creeps ever closer for the grade 6 students.
WATER SPORTS: Ari Younger (front) and Jayda Hickson Sutcliffe were among the Yarrunga students enjoying all the activities at camp.
Carraragarmungee Primary School
Students enjoyed their recent visit to Parliament House in Canberra. It was part of the year 6 camp undertaken with other schools in the cluster. The kids learnt a lot while also having a lot of fun.
INTERSTATE TOUR: Carra students Jack Webbers, Hayden Fletcher, Stanley Richardson and Harmoney McBean are pictured outside Parliament House in Canberra, on their school camp.
More camp fun
Wangaratta Primary School
Students in years 3-6 embraced the challenge of pushing personal boundaries, trying exciting new activities and building resilience during their three-day camp at Feathertop Chalet in Harrietville.
The experience brought everyone together, strengthened friendships and fostered teamwork in a fun and supportive environment, while making memories to last a lifetime.
OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES: Wangaratta Primary grade 3 students Clara Silveira, Scarlett Milvain and (front) Emily Smith enjoy the sunshine on the playground at camp.
Swapping Solomon Islands for wonderful Wangaratta
Wangaratta Chronicle this month hosted two journalists from the Solomon Islands as part of a international development program supported by the Pacific Media Assistance Scheme (PACMAS) in partnership with Country Press Australia (CPA).
The daily prints journalists - Loretta Manele from Island Sun and Agnes Mananopo from Solomon Star - spent two weeks immersed in the Wangaratta community, working in our newsroom on local stories to develop their skills and broaden their professional experience.
Our regular readers would have read a number of their stories over recent weeks and it was a positive learning experience for all involved.
Now back home, Agnes has penned the following piece on her time here.
I began my placement at the Wangaratta Chronicle on Monday, 13 October and finished on Thursday, 23 October.
After arriving, I toured the office, introduced myself to the staff - including my newsroom colleagues for the next two weeks - and jumped straight into work.
I was assigned to conduct interviews, cover events, and return to the office to write stories for the paper.
The Chronicle newsroom operates quite differently from the Solomon Star newsroom in Honiara.
The Chronicle publishes a paper three times a week (Mondays,
You submit your story and see it published the next day - only then do you notice any changes, additions, or errors.
At the Chronicle, editors also advise on how to take proper photos which was new and helpful for me.
These differences have been valuable learning experiences, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to observe and absorb them.
The highlight of my two weeks was meeting and interviewing Independent Indi federal MP Helen Haines at her office in Wangaratta.
She has served as the Independent MP for the Victorian seat of Indi since the 2019 federal election.
She was charismatic, approachable, and a pleasure to interview.
I’m very impressed with Wangaratta.
It’s a small town compared to Honiara and far less crowded.
interviewing Indi Independent
Wednesdays, and Fridays) whereas the Solomon Star publishes six days a week, from Monday to Saturday. Although I didn’t do much inside the Chronicle newsroom, I noticed that there were stories to work on every day, making the workload quite similar to what I’m used to back home.
Reporters in both newsrooms work from 8:30am to 5pm daily.
The Chronicle has a spacious newsroom where each reporter and staff member has their own work area, and it’s quiet, comfortable, and allows for focused work.
In contrast, our newsroom in Honiara has limited space, and we sit close to one another, which can feel cramped and less comfortable.
One notable difference is how editors handle feedback.
GONE FISHING DAY DONE RIGHT IN GLENROWAN
Families and friends enjoyed a great day of fishing at the Glenrowan Recreation Reserve dam on Sunday, 19 October.
Hosted by the King River & District Fishing Club, more than 50 people attended the event which began with the official opening of the new access track and gate into the popular fishing hole.
This project was accomplished with the help of a $3000 community grant received by the club from Rural City of Wangaratta, and support from Crameri Construction, Shan-
ley Signs, the Glenrowan Recreation Reserve committee and club members.
Club secretary Regina Callaway said it was a great day out enjoyed by everyone.
“We would like to thank Cr Dave Fuller from the Rural City of Wangaratta for attending the event, and Victorian Fisheries Authority for stocking the dam with 300 trout,” she said.
“The day was made possible with funding from Victorian Fisheries Authority - your fishing licence fees at work - and Black Aqua.
“Thank you for helping us put on a fabulous day.”
A prize donated from Tatong Anglers Group was awarded for the first fish caught, gratefully received by 14-year-old Alex McGregor who was visiting from Melbourne - the Predator Lures gear sure to come in handy.
Regina said it was great to see so many families out enjoying the day, appreciating the free barbecue and drinks provided.
The club thanked everyone who came out and supported the event.
At the Chronicle, the editor or sub-editor personally approaches you if they spot a mistake or gap in your article.
They print out your story, discuss the issue with you, and even guide you on what information to add or who to contact.
Back home at the Solomon Star, editors don’t usually provide direct feedback.
People greet you with smiles and friendly phrases like “Hello,” “Good morning,” and “Good evening”. The town is noticeably cleaner than Honiara, where rubbish is often visible.
In Australia, waste is sorted into different bins - recyclable, biodegradable, and non-biodegradable - which helps maintain cleanliness.
Prices in shops are also more affordable than back home, especially for food, groceries, and clothing.
If I ever had the chance to live in Australia, I’d choose a small town like Wangaratta.
It’s a lovely country town with a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
FAMILY FUN: Adam, Toni and Tahlia Vescio were among those enjoying a family day out at the Glenrowan Recreation Reserve.
A HIGHLIGHT: Solomon Island journalists Agnes Mananopo (left) and Loretta Manele (right) enjoyed
federal MP Helen Haines during their two week working stay in Wangaratta. PHOTO: Shane Douthie
Isuzu Ute MU-X is a versatile family SUV
By ALISTAIR KENNEDY, MARQUE MOTORING
Isuzu Ute MU-X is a seven-seat family SUV from a Japanese company that has a long history of producing hard working vehicles.
Indeed, Isuzu has a history dating back for over 100 years in light commercial vehicles.
The MU-X is one of only two vehicles offered by the Isuzu Ute brand alongside the D-Max utility with which it shares the same chassis and numerous other components.
MU-X has been a major success in Australia.
Sitting on the same platform as the brand’s D-MAX utility it , currently sitting in second place behind Ford Everest and well ahead of other ute-based rivals such as Mitsubishi Pajero Sport and Toyota Fortuner.
Originally powered exclusively by a 3.0-litre, four-cylinder, common-rail turbo-diesel engine, a 2024 upgrade to both MU-X and D-Max added the option of a 1.9-litre, turbodiesel unit.
The smaller engine proved to be short-lived and it was replaced in mid-2025 by a new 2.2-litre turbo-diesel engine that provided greater power and torque outputs, lower emissions and greater towing capacity.
At the same time the chassis and suspension were upgraded along with technical and safety improvements.
A new flagship MU-X model called X-Terrain was added with the MY2025 update, joining the existing three variants: LS-M, LS-U and LS-T.
The entry level LS-M is available with either two- or four-wheel drive.
All others are 4x4 only.
Our test vehicle here was the X-Terrain.
AT A GLANCE
4X4 DIESEL: $55,900
MU-X LS-M 3.0-LITRE DIESEL 4X4: $57,900
MU-X LS-U 2.2-LITRE DIESEL 4X4: $62,900
MU-X LS-U 3.0-LITRE DIESEL 4X4: $64,900
MU-X LS-T 2.2-LITRE DIESEL 4X4: $71,400
MU-X LS-T 3.0-LITRE DIESEL 4X4: $73,400
MU-X X-TERRAIN 3.0-LITRE DIESEL 4X4: $77,100
NOTE: These prices do not include government or dealer delivery charges. Contact your local Isuzu Ute dealer for drive-away prices.
We’ll get into one of the 2.2-litre models early next year.
STYLING
MU-X is a good-looking vehicle that’s aimed at those looking for an attractive vehicle that’s going to appeal to family buyers looking for something that’s more than an upmarket station wagon.
The bonnet is tall and slopes down at the outer edges.
The windscreen has a practical, relatively upright slope in that doesn’t reach too far back and therefore keeps the sun off the driver and front passenger.
The roof stretches back so that it provides a tall load area, again adding to the practical nature of this vehicle.
Two new exterior colours have been added to the MY2025 MU-X with ‘Neptune Blue’ and ‘Slate Grey’ joining the previous six.
Our test X-Terrain came with the exclusive ‘Slate Grey’. X-Terrain adds XT badging, black radiator grille, fender flares and 20-inch gloss black
alloy wheels, lower body side skirts and highway-terrain tyres.
INTERIOR
Inside, MU-X has an upmarket look as it’s aimed at those who want a quality family vehicle not simply an off-road machine.
There’s excellent interior space for all occupants in each dimension with tumbling second-row seats making passenger access to the third-row reasonably easy.
X-Terrain gets leather accented seats with red stitching, red ambient interior lighting and a 360-degree surround view monitor.
There are cup holders in all three rows, 12 in total, as well as 18 storage options.
Boot space with the thirdrow seats folded is 1119 litres, dropping down to a reasonable 311 litres with all seven seats in place.
All models come with full size spare wheels, all bolted beneath the rear of the vehicle. Steel in the LS-M and LS-U, alloy in the LS-T and XTerrain.
INFOTAINMENT
The LS-M variant comes with a seven-inch colour touchscreen and four-speaker audio.
Others get a nine-inch screen and eight JVC Kenwood speakers.
Likewise, LS-M comes with a smaller (4.2-inch) driver’s instrument display compared with the 7.0-inch screen in LS-U, LS-T and X-Terrain.
In bright sunshine, we struggled to read the screen with light bouncing of it.
Fortunately, there are two physical controls for the audio and some toggles below the screen to adjust the air con settings.
Embedded satellite navigation is only included above the LS-M.
Connectivity is by way of wireless Apple CarPlay or Android Auto.
ENGINES / TRANSMISSIONS
The 3.0-litre four-cylinder common-rail turbo-diesel engine has maximum power of 140 kW and peak torque of 450 Nm from 1600 rpm.
Transmission is through a six-speed Aisin automatic.
The new 2.2-litre drops to 120kW and 400Nm but gets an Aisin eight-speed auto transmission.
SAFETY
The Isuzu Ute MU-X gained a five-star safety when tested in September 2022.
The subsequent upgrades in the past two years have add numerous extra features as required by ANCAP to maintain the maximum score.
Standard safety features across the MU-X range start with eight airbags including front centre and driver’s knee protection together with the mandatory stability and traction control and autonomous emergency braking.
Isuzu’s Intelligent Driver Assist adds forward collision warning, adaptive cruise control with engine stop/ start, traffic sign recognition, lane departure warning, lane keeping assist, emergency lane keeping, blind spot monitoring, rear cross traffic alert and braking and trailer sway control.
There’s also hill start assist and descent control, rollover mitigation, post-collision braking, forward collision warning, mis-acceleration mitigation, intelligent speed limiter, driver inattention assist, rear cross traffic alert and ISOFIX child seat anchors in the outer centre-row seats.
Rear parking sensors are standard in all variants but only the LS-U and above get front sensors.
LS-T and X-Terrain also come with a 360-degree surround view camera.
DRIVING
With its 235mm ground clearance, getting into and out of the MU-X X-Terrain can be challenging especially for occupants at opposite ends of the age range.
Black sidesteps and grab handles at all doors do help.
As is the norm nowadays, there are numerous safety settings that are accessed through the touchscreen.
They are nowhere near as intrusive as many other, mainly Chinese vehicles, and can be turned off reasonably easily.
As is often the way with turbo-diesels MU-X, it’s a bit sluggish off the mark, but once it gains momentum it responds quickly.
There’s strong mid-range torque delivering a plenty of pulling power.
Steering is on the light side, making low-speed manoeuvrers easier and providing good feedback.
The vehicle turns in nicely and holds the path chosen by the driver without the need for small changes to keep it on the chosen path.
Keep in mind that you’re driving a 4WD not a passenger car, but it is excellent in the way that it responds to road conditions.
The MU-X range is covered by Isuzu’s unusual sixyear/150,000km warranty – most of its rivals have five years and unlimited distance.
It does have capped price servicing and up to seven years roadside assistance.
Fuel consumption with the X-Terrain as listed at 7.8 litres per 100 kilometres.
We didn’t spend much time off-road and averaged just under 9.0 L/100 km. Pretty good for such a large vehicle.
SUMMING UP
Isuzu’s stock-in-trade diesel power and genuine offroad ability have drawn consistently high sales numbers to the MU-X throughout the six years that it has been on the Australian market.
It’s well-priced, powerful and versatile, combining large and comfortable family transport with genuine off-road capability.
We have one in our family that spends most of its time either transporting children around or using its 3500 kg towing capacity to comfortably pull a double horse float.
RATINGS
Looks: 8/10
Performance: 8/10
Safety: 8/10
Thirst: 7/10
Practicality: 8/10
Comfort: 7/10
Tech: 8/10
Value: 7/10
Rapist jailed for sexual assault of unconscious woman at lake
A man who drove a passedout woman from Wodonga to a popular Beechworth tourist spot and raped her has been jailed for more than six years.
Matthew Carey, 47, learnt his fate at Wodonga County Court last Wednesday, following a late guilty plea which called off an initially listed trial.
His victim shared the “dreadful” ongoing impacts of his crime with the court in a heartfelt statement, saying her life had changed in many ways following the 8 December, 2023 incident.
“Since then I’ve woken up in the middle of the night
drenched in sweat, shaking and terrified, I have nightmares that feel so real I can’t tell if they are memories of what actually happened or my mind trying to make sense of it all,” she said.
“I have felt unlovable, hopeless, numb, angry and confused.
“His actions didn’t just hurt me physically, he shattered my confidence, my peace and my faith in people.”
The court heard on the night of the incident Carey was asked by a mutual friend to assist her in caring for the victim and taking her home after a night drinking and
Ovens Murray professionals unite for powerful premiere of Unanswered Calls
More than 110 professionals from across the Ovens Murray region gathered this week for the local premiere of Unanswered Calls, a confronting and deeply moving documentary amplifying the voices of children and young people living with family violence.
The event, supported by the Victorian government and hosted by the Ovens Murray Child and Family Services Alliance, Ovens Murray Family Violence Partnership, Ovens Murray Mental Health and Alcohol Drug Alliance, and Ovens Murray Homelessness Network, brought together practitioners and leaders who work every day to improve outcomes for children and families.
The premiere featured insights from Unanswered Calls contributors, including: family violence advocate Rosie Batty AO; Commissioner for Domestic, Family and Sexual Violence Micaela Cronin; and Victoria’s Principal Commissioner for Children and Young People, Liana Buchanan.
Kath Kerin, chair of Ovens Murray Child and Family Services Alliance and acting CEO of UMFC, said every child has the right to be
taking drugs in Wodonga.
Carey picked up the two women and a third woman on the way to take them all to their mutual friend’s home.
They arrived with the victim slumped over sleeping.
Carey told the other women he had to go to his home, and he would “be back in five”.
With the unconscious victim still in the car, he drove 40km to Beechworth and Lake Sambell where he parked the car, removed the woman’s pants and raped her.
The victim only became aware of what was happening when she felt the pain, reacting in “utter shock”, not
knowing where she was or who she was with.
She got back into his car and the pair drove back to Wodonga, with the victim borrowing Carey’s phone to contact her friends.
As they arrived back at the mutual friend’s home, the two women attacked his car with a spanner and an iron bar and he drove off as the victim got out.
She sent a text to Carey making it clear she had been raped.
The next day, Carey went to police and told them about the damage to his car and made them wary of a poten-
tial “false allegation of rape” which could be made.
Judge Gerard Mullaly said Carey’s efforts in attempting to “poison the well” and getting in first with police did him no favours.
In her statement to the court, the victim said her fear and confusion following the incident had never left and she had carried deep shame for something she didn’t do.
“Despite everything I’m still here… what he did will never define me but it has left a scar that will never fade,” she said.
diction and he had served multiple stints behind bars throughout a “concerning” criminal history.
Judge Mullaly imposed a six year and six-month prison sentence, with four years and four months non-parole.
“What you did was comprehensively exploit the victim’s vulnerability and breach the trust that was put in you to do the right thing,” he said.
“You had the chance to reconsider but you went ahead and did so selfishly for your own gratification.”
The court heard Carey battled an ongoing drug ad-
UNITED: Leaders at the film, committed to work together to improve outcomes for children and families, included (from left) Claire Anderson (NESAY), Jaime Chubb (CAV), Kath Kerin (UMFC) and Laura Shortis (AWH).
The court heard Carey had served 313 days prior to the sentence.
Powering on with Goorambat East Solar Farm
By JEFF ZEUSCHNER
ENGIE is powering ahead with its Goorambat East Solar Farm, with all 516,628 solar panels having been installed. The project has moved into the testing and commissioning phase of the 250 Megawatt (MW) solar farm, sited on 630 hectares some 12 kilometres north of Benalla and just south of the Goorambat township.
safe, heard, and protected.
“Unanswered Calls amplifies these rights and urges us all - individuals, organisations, and communities - to listen more deeply and advocate more strongly,” he said.
“The sector alliance’s message is clear: we must strengthen our shared responsibility for healing and recovery, and ensure the voices of children and young people are not only heard, but embedded and acted upon in everything we do.”
Laura Shortis, executive representative Ovens Murray Mental Health and Alcohol and Drug Alliance, and CEO of NESAY, described the
gathering as both powerful and unifying.
“The event was a powerful reminder of what can be achieved when our region comes together with a shared purpose,” she said.
“The collective insight on display demonstrates how deeply committed we are to listening to young people and strengthening the systems that support them to improve their experience when they seek support.”
For Jaime Chubb, chair of the Ovens Murray Family Violence Partnership and CEO of Wangaratta’s Centre Against Violence, the film highlighted an urgent truth.
“As we work to ensure that young
people are seen and supported as victim survivors in their own right, we must continue to recognise that they face their own distinct challenges, experiences and long-lasting impacts of being part of a family where violence, control, fear and instability are a constant presence,” she said.
Claire Anderson, chair of the Ovens Murray Homelessness Network and transitional services manager at NESAY, said the event’s strong attendance was a clear demonstration of the “collective commitment to children and young people, and the value of collaboration in driving meaningful change.”
Ausnet has been onsite and completed construction of the the terminal station, which is now fully energised and connected to Victoria’s transmission grid.
The Goorambat East Solar Farm is expected to generate enough electricity to power up to 105,000 average Victorian homes.
ENGIE said it is currently working with the Department of Transport and Planning (DTP) to finalise the design of the intersection upgrade at Benalla-Tocumwal Road.
A company spokesperson said construction is expected to be completed in 2026, with the farm to commence generating electricity in 2027.
SATURDAY 15 & SUNDAY 16 NOVEMBER
TICKET $40
Includes your festival glass and entry to all participating wineries
BOOK NOW
Scan to learn more about our event and to purchase your ticket
Rural City Connection
Expressions of InterestSummer Events
• 2026 Outdoor Ball Food & Beverage Vendor Applications close 14 December
For more information visit our website: www.wangaratta.vic.gov.au/Summer-EOI
Have You Re-registered Your Pet?
Council Officers are conducting checks to ensure all pets are properly registered. If your pet’s registration hasn’t been updated, you may receive a visit from an officer starting in November. Make sure your furry friend is registered—it's quick, easy, and helps keep them safe!
Tender closes at 2pm on Wednesday 12 November 2025
8718 Hygiene & Sanitary Services
Tender closes at 2pm on Tuesday 18 November 2025
95453 Targoora Park Lighting Upgrade
Tender closes at 2pm on Thursday 27 November 2025
For further details please visit eProcure on Council’s website: https://www.wangaratta.vic.gov.au/Council-Tenders
Planning Applications
Application No PlnApp25/144
Location 95 Wenhams Lane WANGARATTA VIC 3677
Proposal 17-lot subdivision, removal of easements and removal of native vegetation
These applications can be viewed on Rural City of Wangaratta’s website under Development, Planning, Current Applications. Any person who may be affected by the granting of a permit may object or make a submission (in writing). For more information, please contact Planning on 03 5722 0888. Council will not decide these applications before 17 NOV 2025
Australia Day Nominations
It’s your last chance to nominate a local hero for the 2026 Australia Day Awards. The categories include:
• Citizen of the Year
• Young Citizen of the Year (ages 16–25)
• Community Event or Project of the Year Nominate online: www.wangaratta.vic.gov.au/Australia-Day-Awards or collect a form from: Customer Service, Library, or Visitor Information at WPACC Nominations close at 6pm, Saturday 8 November 2025.
New Year’s Eve
The lineup for North East Victoria’s biggest New Year’s Eve celebration has been announced: the electrifying Melbourne Ska Orchestra, ARIA-winning country star Fanny Lumsden local rising artist RIFF, and the multi-talented Indigenous Outreach Project
For more info about the event, head to our website: https://www.wangaratta.vic.gov.au/NYE
Free Green Waste
We have 2 good reasons for you to clear out your garden this Spring!
Free green waste disposal is available at all transfer stations in November.
Council will begin annual footpath inspections next month. Remember to trim trees and shrubs on your property that overhang council footpaths. Find your nearest transfer station and opening hours: www.wangaratta.vic.gov.au/Services/WasteRecycling/Transfer-Stations
Moyhu Transfer Station Closed
Moyhu Transfer Station Closure: Saturday, 1 November
Next open date: Saturday, 15 November. To make up for the missed weekend, free green waste will be accepted at Moyhu Transfer Station on Saturday, 13 December. For more information visit: https://bit.ly/4f53YTi
Wangaratta Transfer Station Melbourne Cup Weekend Hours
Saturday & Sunday: 10:00 am – 4:30 pm
Monday: Closed Tuesday: 10:00 am – 4:30 pm
IN PERSONBY PHONE
37 Rowan Street, Wangaratta 3677
WANGARATTA HARNESS RACING CLUB INC
ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING
SUNDAY, November 16
Avian Park Raceway, Newman Street, Wangaratta commencing at 1pm.
Committee nominations and general business items to be received on or before 14/11/25.
Enquires and correspondence:
Bernadette Costantino Honorary Secretary Wangaratta Harness Racing Club Inc M: 0413 180 423
E: bcostantino@bigpond.com
All Members urged to attend.
The office of North East Media will be closed for business on Tuesday, November 4, 2025 for the Melbourne Cup Holiday. Deadline for classified advertisements for Wednesday, November 5 edition, will be Monday, November 3 at 11am. Phone 5723 0101 Email: classifieds@nemedia.com.au
JESUS
Praise His name.
Open Garden for charity at Birchwood Near Benalla
1-2 November see details birchwood nearbenalla.com.au
MOYHU FOOTBALL & NETBALL CLUB
AGM
Monday, November 10, 2025
6.30pm
MOYHU CLUB ROOMS moyhufootballclub@ bigpond.com
To Visit Visited
GLASSWARE, garden ornaments, tools, dinner sets, lots of kitchen electrical, washing machine, dining suite, wall unit, single and double bed, wardrobes, lots of bric-a-brac, no early callers, Saturday, November 1, 8am start, 5 Greta Road, Wangaratta.
WHEELER 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.
DJ and CL Collison Concrete and Kurb, all concrete works, residential and commerical, free quotes. Call Dave 0457 155 564.
CARPENTRY and plastering. Ph 0424 911 161.
KITCHENS JUST FOR YOU, new kitchens, face lifts, wall units, kitchens available before Christmas, prompt service. Phone Roland 0414950 647.
DOG Trainer/ Psychologist, proven results helping people to overcome behavioral issues with their fourlegged friends. W: franksdogtraining.au, Ph: 0418 314 610.
PAINTER, old school, for all your painting needs, commercial, industrial renovations. Phone Juliano 0412 597 482.
DANIEL’S Carpentry and Maintenance Solutions. Servicing Wangaratta and surrounds. For a free quote and examples of my work find us on Facebook or phone 0413 660 636.
YARD CLEANUPS AND RUBBISH REMOVAL, household rubbish green waste, furniture, garage cleanouts, mowing. Fast, reliable service for all your clean-up needs! No job too big or small. Call 0474 107 631.
BROWN FAMILY WINE GROUP POSITIONS VACANT
Brown Family Wine Group is one of Australia’s most loved and respected wine companies, built on over 130 years’ experience in quality winemaking, market leading innovation and family values that are at the heart of everything we do.
We are a proud and passionate business, maintaining our certification as “A Great Place to Work” for the seventh year in a row.
The following opportunities are now available to join our dedicated and hardworking team, based at our Milawa site:
For further information and to view the full advertisements, please check out our Careers page by scanning this QR Code or contacting 03 5720 5500.
Wangaratta. The
start on 1 July 2026, for up to three years.
These positions provide an exciting opportunity for persons with an interest in making a difference in the health sector and have the knowledge and skills for ensuring health care is delivered safely and effectively, with public money used to the benefit of all Victorians. As a director you will be doing more than just contributing your time or knowledge. Being appointed to a hospital board places you in a position of trust. You will play an important role in providing leadership, accountability and integrity in the delivery of healthcare across Victoria. Applicants are selected for their capabilities, including personal and professional experience, knowledge, and skills that contribute to the strategic leadership and oversight of healthcare for the Victorian community. It is preferable that applicants reside in Victoria or, within the border community of those hospitals near the New South Wales and South Australian borders. While Victorian public health boards are based on capabilities, boards are more effective when these capabilities also represent the richness of the diverse voices of Victorian communities. We encourage First Nations people, people living with a disability, people from culturally diverse backgrounds, people who identify as LGBTIQA+, gender equality, and upholding human rights.
Applications close at Midnight Sunday 23 November 2025. Further information about Victorian health service boards and how to apply can be found at www.health.vic.gov.au/board-applications
Office Coordinator / Customer Support
(Permanent / Full time)
Are you organised, proactive, and customer-focused? We’re looking for an energetic Office Coordinator and Customer Support professional to join our dynamic team. In this role, you’ll be the backbone of our office operations and the first point of contact for our valued clients and partners.
Our purpose – we help people see the value of trees.
Our vision - a greener future where people are connected with trees and green spaces.
Our mission - we maximize the benefits of trees for communities.
Based in Wangaratta, Arboressence is a leading provider of professional arboriculture tree services, environmental land management and expert consultancy, ensuring best value to our clients across Victoria’s north-east and southern NSW.
Key Responsibilities
• Manage daily office operations and administrative tasks
• Provide exceptional customer support via phone, email, and in-person
• Maintain accurate records of jobs, equipment, and client communications
• Support coordination of team training
• Contribute to internal reporting and data tracking
• Assist with invoicing, quotations, and other administrative tasks
• Collaborate with team members to ensure smooth workflow
What We’re Looking For
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Strong organizational and multitasking abilities
• Problem-solving mindset and a positive attitude
• Previous experience in office administration or customer support
• Proficiency in MS Office and familiarity with CRM systems
• High level of accuracy and attention to detail
• Passion for trees and the natural environment is a plus
We Offer
• A vibrant, supportive work environment
• Opportunities for growth and development
• Competitive salary and benefits
• The chance to be a vital part of our team!
To Apply
If you would you like to join a passionate team of people and feel that this role could be the one for you, send your cover letter detailing a little about you and why you’re the right fit along with your resume to admin@arboressence.com.au or to request a copy of the position description.
INDEPENDENT MEMBER – AUDIT AND RISK COMMITTEE
The Northeast Health Wangaratta Board is seeking an Independent member for its Audit and Risk Committee.
The Audit and Risk Committee (the Committee) has been established consistent with Section 3.2.1 of the Standing Directions 2018 under the Financial Management Act (1994).
The primary purpose of the Committee is to assist the Board to fulfil its obligations regarding effectiveness of the financial reporting framework and internal audit activities and recommendations.
The Committee also supports the Board in the review of annual financial statements, compliance attestations and annual report of operations. In addition to oversighting the external audit program, the Committee also functions to review and monitor compliance with risk and financial management laws and standards and monitoring of the NHW risk management framework.
The primary purpose of the role of Independent Member is to provide objective oversight, specialist expertise and impartial judgement to strengthen governance, financial integrity and risk management. The initial term of the role is 12 months with a view to a 3 year appointment.
Enquiries about the role (including a copy of the position description) should be directed to Kris Cirulis on 03 5722 5454.
Applications, addressing the selection criteria from the PD, should be emailed to Kris.cirulis@nhw.org.au
Applications close, November 23, 2025
2018 Kia Cerato Sport, 100,000km, immaculate condition, one owner, (2DK4WE) , RWC, $16,500. Ph 0437 771 866.
TOYOTA Hilux 2013, 171,000km, ARB Canopy and Bullbar, Outback Storage draws and boxes inside rear canopy, Black Duck seat covers and Toyota floor mats installed frontandrear,Hayman Reese ball tow bar and additional Pintle Hook Tow Bar, Mongoose 7” multimedia player / reversing camera installed, tyres 5000km since installed, cam belt checked and
HEAVY duty golf buggy tilt trailer 8’x5’ brand new, never been used due to shoulder injury. $2500 ono Contact 0415 408 344
2015 Kokoda Caravan, 18’6”, never been off road, $42,000. PH 0427 564 956.
REGAL caravan
20.6ft. Excellent condition, very little use, full annexe, as new tyres, heating and air conditioning, solar panels, Hayman hitch, 6 months rego $37,500. 5721 5794
AIR Fryer $50; industrial size misting fan $300; Mistral Robovac $50; Shiatsue foot massager $100; Reflexology body massager $200; Samsung 43414770 LED Smart TV brand new, paid $600, sell for $500. Ph 0448 430 532.
MERITS 10 Powered wheelchair. Good condition , ideal for inside the house as well as outside. $650
CHERRIES
Pick your own Own containers $5/kg 8am-5pm daily (closed Fridays) Ph 0408 597 770
FREE Range Hens, ISA Brown Pullets, POL, $35 each. Phone Becky or Hugh on 5798 1868.
CELEBRANT
Roxanne Bodsworth. Available for weddings, funerals, namings, and all your celebrant needs. 0428 401 964
RB ODSWORTH @ outlook.com WWW . sunwyse. com.au
BARRY, Joyce Lillian.
1/5/1922 – 26/10/2025
Passed away peacefully at Respect St John’s Aged Care Wangaratta.
Loving wife of Dick (dec). Dearly loved and cherished Mum and Mumma of Wendy and David Priestley; Peter and Faye (dec); Susan and Brian Fisher, Todd and Renee, Levi, Billie Joyce, Joel and Laura, Evie, Ollie, Lenny, Addy, Jordan and Steph, Pia, Riley; Brian and Karina, James, Emma.
A great friend to many.
We are grateful for every precious memory.
BECKLEY (nee Burleigh), Verna Berniece (27/11/1938 - 24/10/2025) Passed aged 86. Loved wife of W.R. “Roy” Beckley (dec). Loving mother of Stuart and Don. Grandmother to Jodie, Danielle, Alyssa, William, and Stuart R. Survived by her two sisters Ailsa and Rae.
Always in our hearts.
Special thanks to the staff at Royal Freemasons Coppin Centre for the care and support provided to Verna and her family.
Memorial service to be held on Tuesday, November 11, 2025 at North East Funerals,184 Greta Rd, Wangaratta VIC 3677.
The service will commence at 1pm, followed by afternoon tea.
The service will be live streamed via https:// funerals.northeastfunerals.com.au/funerals/ In lieu of flowers, donations to either the Wangaratta South CFA Brigade or Wangaratta
PLUMRIDGE, David Steven.
24/5/1951 -27/10/2025
Passed away peacefully on
van, built 2013, double axle, new tyres and brakes, toilet and shower combined, aircon, double water tanks, 90L fridge, excellent condition, $40,000
BARRY, Joyce Lillian.
The President and members of Wangaratta RSL mourn the passing of our highly esteemed Member.
Lest we forget.
EMPLOYMENT
BARRY
The memorial service to celebrate Joyce Lillian Barry’s 103 amazing years will be held in the Mason Park Chapel, 95 Mason Street, Wangaratta on Thursday, November 6, 2025 at 2pm.
A private cremation will precede the service.
In lieu of flowers a donation can be made online in memory of Joyce to Legacy at www.legacy.com.au/ Returned and Services Personnel are respectfully invited to attend. Mason Park Funerals 5721 5060
PLUMRIDGE
A memorial service to honour the life of David Plumridge will be held at North East Funerals, on Monday, November 10, 2025, commencing at 11am.
A private burial will precede the service.
MICHALOWSKI
The family of the late Bill Michalowski wish to express our deepest gratitude to everyone who supported us during our recent loss.
Your kind words, messages, visits, flowers, and many acts of care and compassion have brought us great comfort and strength at a very difficult time.
We would especially like to thank the doctors, nurses, and healthcare staff at The Austin Hospital for their exceptional kindness and care, and North East Funerals for their gentle guidance and professionalism in helping us say goodbye with dignity and love.
Please accept this as a sincere expression of our appreciation to all our family, friends, and neighbours. Your love and support will always be remembered.
~ With love and thanks, Lucy, Samuel, Nicholas and Maria
McINTYRE, Wes.
To family and friends, we sincerely thank you for your loving messages, cards, and flowers. Special thanks to Matt and Blair for speaking at the gathering and to Mason Park Funerals for their expertise.
May you please accept this as our personal thanks in our time of grief.
BIRD, Russell “Keith”.
18/8/1947 –5/11/2024
‘You will forever be my always’ Quietly remembered , sadly missed, everyday in the hearts of those who loved you.
~ Lyn, family and friends.
COUSINS, Deborah Anne.
25/8/1962 –2/11/2009
Treasured memories always.
~ Love Pop xoxo.
KNIGHT, Cory.
November 1, 2020. Five years has gone, yet still I stay and talk to you each passing day. I just cannot get over losing you.
JONES, Lynette (Dyer). 4/11/2025
Hello Birthday Girl. Thinking of you on this day, always in our hearts.
COUSINS, Deborah. 25/8/1962 - 2/11/2009
~ Love Mum; David and Jan; Lauren, Andrew, Chloe, Chelsea; Jason, Lea,
My Sister Deborah Every day in some small way, memories of you come our way. Though absent, you are always near.
What we would give to hear your voice, to see your smile, and just to sit and talk for a while. Still missed, loved and always dear. Forever in our hearts.
~ Love always your sister Sharon, Bruce, Tamara, Gav, Penny, Mitch, Abbey, Louis, Olivia, Georgia and Nathan xxx.
COUSINS, Deborah Anne. 25/8/1962 – 2/11/2009
Memories of you, I will always treasure and in my heart you will always remain. To walk with me, within my life, till we meet again. Loved and missed every day.
~ Love always your Mum xoxo
Honouring the Journey Mason Park masonpark.com.au
WANGARATTA Chronicle photographer Marc Bongers made his way to junior tennis recently to capture some action on the courts. Photographs can be purchased at the Chronicle.
EMILY MCLEAN
MIM HEDDERMAN
ASHTON RYAN
EMILY FILIPENKO ZOE FLYNN
FLO KIRBY
MOLLY MCINERNEY
ZOE FLYNN
NEEVE STAGG
Dragons hockey masters take the gold
Two Border Masters hockey teams, representing the 40+ and 60+ age groups, recently returned from a spirited campaign at the Australian Masters Games in Canberra, held from 18–25 October.
Despite being made up of players from various Hockey Albury Wodonga local clubs, who had never played together before, both teams delivered impressive performances and showcased the strength of regional talent.
Wangaratta Dragons were well represented, with six team members in the 40+ age group – Amelia Bock, Christy Christie, Emma Gall, Carli Notman and Kylie Samson, with Ellie Samson managing the team well.
Sharon Watkins played in the 60+ team.
SCOREBOARD
JUBILEE GOLF CLUB
Wednesday, 22 October
Men’s 9 Hole Stableford
Winner: Terry Docherty 21. Second: Ed Day 20.
Ball winners: Jim Darcy 20, Chris O’Keefe 20, Ray Gibbs 18.
Men’s 18 Hole Stableford
First: Alex Jones 40. Second: Lawrence Miller 38. Third: Nigel Cooper 37.
Ball winners: Trevor Gunn 37, Neville Hogan 36, John Batchelor, Stan Goldsworth, Noel Holmes, Angus Monfries 35.
NTPs - 4th: Stephen McNaughton, 8th: Ian Harbourd, 13th: Martin VanRhee.
Thursday, 23 October
Ladies 18 Hole Stableford
Winner: Angela Mitchell 41.
Ball winners: Chris Boseley C/B from 37, Liz Collihole 37.
NTPs - 4th: Sharee Coghill, 8th: Lee Freeman, 13th: Chris Hazell, 17th: Sue Clayton.
Ladies 9 Hole Stableford
Winner: Chris Hazell 20. Ball winners: Linda Stone 1.
Saturday, 25 October
Men’s Monthly Medal Stroke
First: Peter Ford -5. Second: Bronte Bruce -4. Third: Danny Potter -4. Fourth: Ray Hyland C/B -2.
Ball winners: Zac Hedin, Robert Voss, Les Naidoo -2; Peter Geldens -1; Martin VanRhee E; David O’Connor, Brian Thomas, Barry Adams, Adam Anderson, Alex Gibbs, Gordon Patterson, Noel Holmes +1; Brendon Essex +2.
NTPs - 4th: Trevor Nippress, 8th: Gary Walder, 13th: Wayne Hibberson, 17th: Brian Thomas.
Ladies 18 Hole Stroke
Winner: Tamara O’Connor -2.
Ball winners: Kellie Roberts -1, Alison Comensoli E.
NTPs - 4th: Linda Stone, 8th: Mary
The 60+ team got off to a flying start, notching early wins and building strong momentum, but a crucial late-tournament loss saw them slip in the standings, forcing a play-off for fifth against the sixth placed side.
That final match ended in a hardfought draw, capping off a tournament filled with grit and determination.
Meanwhile, the 40+ team overcame a shaky start, dropping early matches but steadily improving with each game.
Their resilience paid off as they surged into the semi-finals, securing a spot in the gold medal match against The Old Ducks, a team they had previously lost to.
In the final match, Border Masters came out firing, scoring two goals and setting the tone early in the game.
Jones , 13th: Tamara O’Connor, 17th: Jackie O’Brien.
Monday, 27 October
Men’s 18 Hole Stableford- Vets
Winner: Peter Collihole 36.
Ball winners: Neville Hogan 35, Alex Gibbs 32, Andrew Walker 32, Ray Hyland 31, Brian Thomas 30, Gary Dickson C/B 27.
NTPs - 8th: Brian Thomas.
Tuesday, 28 October
Ladies 9 Hole Stableford
Winner: Gerrie Versteegen 18.
Ball winners: Robyn Harrison 17.
Ladies Monthly Medal
Winner: Linda Stone (Gateway Quality Hotel Voucher) -3. Second: Angela Mitchell (Pinsent Hotel Voucher) -1.
Their opponents clawed one back late in the first quarter, but Border responded with another just before half-time.
The third quarter turned into a midfield battle, with fatigue setting in after six games in seven days. Still, the Border side dug deep, adding a fourth goal after the final break.
A late consolation goal from the opposition wasn’t enough to stop the Border Masters from claiming a 4–2 victory and the gold medal.
The tournament was not only a showcase of skill and teamwork but also a celebration of camaraderie and community spirit.
For both local teams, it was a week of great hockey, new friendships, and unforgettable memories.
WANG GOLF CLUB
WGC Competitions: Week ending 26 October
Tuesday, 21 October
Women’s 9 Hole Stableford Event
Winner: Jill Halbwidl 15 points C/B.
Runner Up: Sue McCall 15 points.
NTPs - 2nd: Jill Halbwidl.
18 Hole Stableford Event
Winner: Barbara Thomas 34 points.
Runner Up: Jan Hill 33 points.
Wednesday, 22 October
Men’s 18 Hole Stableford Event
Winner: Judd Schubert 44 points.
Runner Up: Chris Oates 40 points.
Ball Winners: Riley Allan, Matt Niclosi, Matthew Walsh, Jason Dodd, Michael Webster, Dean Campagna.
NTPs – 2nd: Paul Judd, 4th: Paul Judd, 7th: Michael Webster, 13th: Paul Judd, 16th: Henry McInnes, 18th: Michael Webster.
9 Hole Stableford Event
Winner: Leonard Chandler 12 points.
Runner Up: Joe Antic 11 points.
Thursday, 23 October
Women’s 9 Hole Stableford Event
Winner: Julie McInnes 19 points.
Runner Up: Dawn Fleet 18 points.
18 Hole Stableford Event
Winners: Rhonda Bray 36 points.
Runners Up: Jan Hill 35 points.
NTPs - 2nd: Jan Hill.
18 Hole Stroke Event
Medal Of Medals
Winners: Glenda Dodson 70 nett.
Runners Up: Jacqui Hoggan 72 nett.
NTPs - 4th: Sue McCall, 7th: Glenda Dodson, 13th: Sue McCall, 18th: Jacqui Hoggan.
Saturday, 25 October
Men’s 3rd Round Club
Championships
18 Hole Stroke Event
A Grade Winner: Henry McInnes 66 nett. A Grade Runner Up: Dean Campagna 67 nett.
B Grade Winner: Glen Seymour 63 nett. B Grade Runner Up: Peter Rundell 66 nett.
C Grade Winner: Bryce Mortimer 64 nett. C Grade Runner Up: Derek Hawksworth 68 nett.
Ball Winners: Jeremy Winter, Scott Thomson, Ben Clarke, Michael Webster, Paul Judd, Mark Comensoli, Judd Schubert, Kris Allan, Phillip Winnell, Lachlan Nottle, Lachy Moore, Jensen Perna.
NTPs – 2nd: Mark Flack, 4th: Beau Wheeler, 7th: Robert Fischer, 13th: Mitchell Bush, 16th: Matt Fischer, 18th: Robert Murray.
RSL/Wangaratta Turf Club 3 Person Ambrose Charity Day
Men’s winners: Trevor Cooper, Paul Oats, Simon McKay. Runners Up: Julian Bau, Craig Donoghue, Matt Walsh.
Mixed winners: Sue McCall, Peter Nolan, Sam Niedra. Runners Up: Janet Wraith, Debra Pascall, Ian Harbourd.
Mixed & Mens - Down the Line
Kellie Roberts, Wayne Roberts, Paul Corneilius; Carolyn Sullivan, Greg Sullivan, Lexi Bush; Michael Cordier, Gavin Braybrook, Joseph Marjanovic; Chris Simsen, Graeme Giggins, Alan Rowe; Michael Webster, Ed Dunstan, David Sutton.
NTPs - 2nd: David O’Brien, 4th: Trevor Cooper, 13th: Henry McInnes, 16th: Michael Cordier, 18th: Sam Niedra - Hole in 1.
The members played a threeperson Ambrose and the winners by 1/6th of a shot were Leo McCoy, Pete Nolan and Mark Nolan 73-9 4/6-63 2/6.
NTPs - 4th: Leo McCoy.
Monthly Awards: Captains Award: Mark Nolan. Sec/Treasurers Award: Mark Nolan. Birdies: Leo McCoy. Gobblers: nil.
Golf to be played on Saturday, 1 November is to be decided on the day.
Members are advised that the final Pete Nolan Medal of Medals is to be played on Saturday, 15 November with all eligible members asked to attend.
WANG CROQUET
Results for Monday, 27 October are as follows:
Margaret Bennett and Nathan Reynolds d Christine Ireland and Wendy Waddington 7/5, Gabi Heywood and Janet Kelly d Elise Downes and Robyn Muller 7/5. Wednesday evening saw nine members attend to play in very pleasant conditions.
Janet Kelly played some very good shots in both the morning and evening sessions.
Play is at 9am on Monday, Wednesday and Saturday and 5.30pm on Wednesday for twilight play.
Please arrive 15 minutes earlier to allow for a draw to be undertaken.
The club is located at 46 Ryan Avenue, Wangaratta.
For further information please contact president Susan Fischer on 0417 217 009 or secretary Terry Wilson on 0417 326 739.
POWER: Emma Gall strikes the ball from the sidelines.
PHOTO: Kylie Samson
GOLDEN GIRLS: Wangaratta Dragons Hockey Club members (from left) Christy Christie, Ellie Samson (team manager), Kylie Samson, Amelia Bock, Emma Gall and Carli Notman with their gold medals at the Australian Masters Games in Canberra.
NERTA season off and running
By BACKHAND WINNER
Section A
Wang Hardcourt have begun the season on a bright note and are out to atone for last year’s grand final defeat.
Everton Red (Jarrod Kneebone, Sam Bennett, Russell Bennett, Susie Bennett) faced the music this week and went away as the vanquished. Hardcourt (Matt Lucas, Andy Lucas, Chris Lucas, Kelly Clarkson) displayed that their form from last year has continued at the highest level, their overall depth will prove hard for all other teams to counter.
Hardcourt’s best - Matt and Andy Lucas; Everton Red’s best - Susie Bennett and Russell Bennett.
Putting the skates on goals at the national level
By BAILEY ZIMMERMANN
Galen Catholic College student Flynn Ackland is continuing to rise within the rink after being named the top goalie at the Inline Hockey Australia National Championships for a second straight year.
The Beechworth teenager wore the goalkeeping pads for his state in the week-long 17 and under tournament last month in Tasmania, where Victoria would go on to make the semi-finals before going down to the host state.
Throughout the tournament Flynn alternated goalie duties each games and made 64 saves, allowing just the eight total goals and recorded a stellar shutout against South Australia.
In another match, Flynn made
23 saves from 26 shots as eventual champions Queensland peppered his goals in their 3-1 win over Victoria.
He was named the championships best goalie for the 17 and under division, with Victoria conceding the least amount of average goals per game across the tournament.
He was also the only goalie in the division to hold a team goalless for a match
The national championships was Flynn’s second time representing his state, after also being named as best goalie in the 15 and under division last year.
The 17-year-old said he had an amazing experience in Tasmania, being among the best in the sport across the country for his age.
“Being with the team for a week
was easy, they are a great group of people to hang around and have a lot of laughs, the coaches who also play for Victoria and Australia are very encouraging and supportive,” he said.
Throughout tryouts for the Victorian 17 and under side, Flynn said he had to travel to Melbourne every weekend for three months straight.
“The tryouts were hard because they involve a lot of physical fitness and dedication to the sport,” he said.
The Wangaratta teen has been
TOP GOAL STOPPER: THE 17-YEAR-OLD WAS NAMED THE NATIONAL TOURNAMENT’S BEST GOALIE IN THE 17 AND UNDER DIVISION.
couraging towards me and new members,” he said.
Flynn was inspired to become a goalie and put on the rollerblades due to his interest in ice hockey and the NHL.
His favourite player and role model is former NHL champion goalie Marc-André Fleury, which inspired him to don the number 29 and support his Las Vegas Golden Knights.
“My ambitions are to continue training hard and compete regularly for the club and hopefully one day I’ll be overseas playing
Wahgunyah Deep Heat (Will Bergin, Josh Reid, Hugh Bergin, Kath Blake) were too strong for a competitive Wooragee Red (Ian McVea, Marree Nankervis, Kerrie Sutton,
Deep Heat started brightly to hold a comfortable lead but the experienced heads in the Wooragee camp fought back to apply pressure to Deep Heat, but it wasn’t enough to
Deep Heat’s best - Will Bergin and Josh Reid; Wooragee Red’s bestMaree Nankervis and Kerrie Sutton. Wooragee Blue (Dean Bensted, Mark Knoth, Eiylish McRostie, Mick McRostie) were pushed all the way by Corowa (Joel Bilney, Hudson Bilney, Oscar Rowe, Shane Quirk) and scraped home by 12 games.
The sets were split after four sets 2-2, all while Wooragee held a four-
The final two sets went Wooragee’s way after they were steadier under pressure.
Wooragee Blue’s best - Mark Knoth and Eiylish McRostie; Corowa’s bestShane Quirk and Oscar Rowe.
Section A: Wang Hardcourt 6-48 def Everton Red 0-21, Boorhaman 6-48 def Everton Blue 0-48.
Section B: Wooragee Blue 4-42 def Corowa 2-30, Wahgunyah Deep Heat 5-46 def Wooragee Red 1-26, Wahnation 6-48 def Wahgunyah Toecutters 0-48
LADDERS
Record turnout for Hume Region Hot Shots Tennis Tournament
By JORDAN DUURSMA
The courts were buzzing with energy and enthusiasm as over 150 students from across the Hume region gathered for the annual Hot Shots Tennis Tournament.
Eighteen teams from four regional divisions competed in this year’s event, marking the largest turnout in the tournament’s history.
Hume primary region coordinator for School Sport Victoria, Carolyn Willett, said it was wonderful to see so many kids getting active and involved.
The Hot Shots program, developed by Tennis Victoria, offers a modified version of tennis designed to be ac-
cessible for schools without traditional facilities.
Using portable nets, smaller courts, and low-compression balls, students can play almost anywhere.
Willet said it’s a really inclusive program.
“Even kids who don’t play community tennis can have a go,” she said.
This year’s tournament served as the regional final, with one boys’ team and one girls’ team advancing to the state finals at Kooyong.
“It’s exciting for the kids,” Willett said.
“They’ll get to play at Kooyong, which is a great experience.”
Willett said getting the opportunity to participate, es-
pecially for smaller schools, is important.
“We provide all the equipment, so it’s a great opportunity for schools that might not otherwise be able to take part,” she said.
“It’s all about giving kids the chance to try something new.”
Last year, students had the chance to take photos with the Australian Open cups as part of a Tennis Victoria initiative.
While the cups didn’t make an appearance this year, the event was a winner.
“We always welcome schools from across the region,” Willett said.
“It’s about creating opportunities and making sport accessible for everyone.”
Ryan Allan, Alfie Fulton and Ed Fulton, were among the 150 kids who participated in the tournament. PHOTO: Jordan Duursma
The magic of the Cup
Thousands expected at Wangaratta Turf Club for massive Melbourne Cup race day
By NATHAN DE VRIES
A bustling crowd of racegoers will be hoping for clear weather on Tuesday as Wangaratta Turf Club throws open its doors to celebrate the race that stops our nation.
The Melbourne Cup Day Races at the turf club is a marquee event in the region, and punters, families and those looking for a good time will don their finest and make their way trackside, with gates open from 11am.
Wangaratta Turf Club CEO Emma Merlo said tickets had been flying out the door in the lead-up to the event.
“I think we’ve seen really great, strong community support,” she said.
“We’re aiming for around 2000, I think the community’s really getting behind it –I’m really proud to see strong interest back in the club and the community supporting
the direction we’re going in.
“There’s some fun new branding out there with the ‘In Full Bloom’ theme going, everyone’s talking about it, tickets are selling really well.
“We’ve got general admission, we’ve got 30-odd umbrellas booked, 300-odd people out on the home straight, ready to sit back and enjoy the sunshine.
“We’ve got the Secret Garden Marquee, we’re looking at around the 250-mark for that which is really exciting, that will have an hour of cocktails to start, canapes all day and drinks all day as well - that’ll be a really perfect partygoers vibe there.
kids so they can make bracelets and have lots of fun in a safe area, and we’ve also got Kelly Sports who’ll have lots of outdoor activities for the very enthusiastic kids who need to run off some steam,”
Merlo said.
“We’ve also got a group coming in who will do some soft play for the younger ones.”
While the off-track entertainment will be booming, there will be plenty of action to get behind on the track, with a current seven-race card set to delight.
down the straight.
“We normally have six [races], so it is exciting to maybe get at least one more race on Melbourne Cup Day,” Merlo said.
“We had some great results here on Monday just gone, we squeezed in another race day here a couple of days ago.
“Inside the Oaks Room, we’re fully booked, 250 there for a nice sit-down luncheon, a bit more of a relaxed style to enjoy the races in the comfort of whatever weather happens.
“We’ve got corporate groups around and the pri-
vate members room, so everything’s shaping up really well to be a great, fun Spring day.”
The club is also providing a free TAC shuttle bus to the track with pick-up locations across the rural city.
While the grown ups will
have plenty to keep them entertained and hydrated, there’s also plenty on for the younger racegoers.
“We’ve got lots of kids’ stuff organised, we’ve got Little Daisy, a boutique in Wangaratta who’s coming to do three workshops for the
As well as the local action, the screens around the track will broadcast all the drama from Flemington, leading up to the running of the 165th Melbourne Cup from 3pm.
With plenty of locally trained horses set to line up across the day on their home track, the Wangaratta racing community is sure to get behind their tipped runner and cheer them home
order.
‘PIES BACK TO HUNT TIGERS: ABSOLUTE RUN-FEST AWAITS
By NATHAN DE VRIES
From one extreme to the other – after sitting on the sidelines last week with the bye, Wangaratta Magpies are faced with possibly their biggest challenge of the season this weekend.
Fresh off an early-season break, the Magpies are back in action on Saturday, heading up the Great Alpine Road to take on an extremely strong Ovens Valley United outfit on their home deck.
The teams match up remarkably well, with both boasting big hitting, depth batting, and a number of
talented bowlers.
Both the Magpies and Tigers are undefeated in 2025/26, setting the stage for a highstakes game of cricket at Myrtleford’s McNamara Reserve.
For the Magpies, it will be about nullifying the influence Ovens Valley’s Geeth Alwis has on the game with bat and ball.
Alwis made a half century in his opening game, before thumping 155* last weekend, and looks in some serious form with the ball, having picked up three wickets in both games played so far.
Wangaratta Magpies skipper Cooper Matheson said Alwis was the big wicket
his bowlers would be chasing.
“Geeth’s a very talented cricketer, he just knows how to bat and not lose his head or anything, he’s got a very good temperament,” he said.
“We’ll have to bowl really well to him, probably have our own plan set to bowling around him.
“I think our boys are more than up to the task, we’re up for the challenge.”
Matheson said the week off gave his team plenty of time to prepare.
“It was good, a few of them played A res as well, Nick Stebnyckyj played twos to get a bit of an extra hit because he missed the week before
and made runs,” he said.
“As a batting side, we’ve got a lot of aggressive batsmen.
“Early on in the day we’ll be looking to put the pressure back on the opposition side.
“Bowling-wise, we’ve got a few good strike bowlers, especially early, like ‘Clemmo’ [Chris Clement], Frase Ellis is still to come back in, ‘Killa’ [David Killen], so we’re happy with our bowling unit.”
The Magpies take on Ovens Valley United on Saturday at McNamara Reserve.
The A reserve competition is also in action, while the rest of the senior grades, and all of the juniors, take the weekend off.
“Ben [Brisbourne] and Andrew [Dale] did really well, it’s great to see the locals win at home because you see them every day, you see them working from 4am all the way through, so it’s really good and rewarding to see the big smiles on their faces.”
The Melbourne Cup Day Races at Wangaratta Turf Club are on Tuesday, November 4, with gates open from 11am and the first local race from 12.15pm.
Wangaratta race fields, together with the Melbourne Cup Sweep lift-out, will be in Wangaratta Chronicle’s Monday edition.
Rangers swinging into softball season
The Wangaratta Rangers junior under 12 softball side is ripping into the season, but suffered a first-round loss to a strong Wodonga Warriors team.
The Warriors came out swinging against the Rangers’ inexperienced team, but the Rangers piled on eight runs in the third innings to bring the game back to a respectable 16-8 scoreline.
Player of the game for the Rangers was James Turner who, in his first ever game, did a fantastic job of pitching and showing up with the bat.
Other players of note include Toby and Ben Fitzgerald, who performed well with the bat, and Zara Liphuyzen, who was solid behind the plate for the game.
The seniors played the Wodonga Gladiators after a first round bye.
The Rangers got off to a strong start scoring six runs in the first innings from some patient hitting and good baserunning.
The ball then swung to pitcher Kim Flood who got control against the Gladiators early, getting out of the first two innings giving up only two runs.
The Rangers’ bats were quieter but were still able to put on another four runs with hits to Mei Sato, Katie Maiden and Kim Flood.
However, the Gladiators were able to push back in the remaining innings, taking advantage of some loose pitching to put up 14 runs in the last two innings to run out 16-10 winners.
The next game for the Rangers will be on Saturday, 1 November against the Sloth Bears starting at 2pm with the juniors starting at 11:30am.
PHOTO: Melissa Beattie
SWING, BATTER: Wangaratta Rangers junior Isaac Turner in action.
CUP DAY MAGIC: Wangaratta Turf Club’s (back from left) Greg Brown, Lachlan Hart, (front from left) Courtney Purcell, Emma Merlo, and Enos Feng are hard at work preparing everything for the Melbourne Cup Day Races at the track.
PHOTO: Nathan de Vries
IN FULL BLOOM
Wangaratta Turf Club team members (back from left) Sam Johns, Max Buckley, Lachlan Hart, Greg Brown, (middle from left) Emma Merlo, Josh Chambers, Courtney Purcell, Mel Gilfuis, and Enos Feng (front) are eager to welcome racegoers to the Melbourne Cup Day Races on Tuesday, 4 November.
Golden chance for Colts
Youth-centred City Colts out to snare victory over Benalla in A grade cricket
They may not have had the greatest start to the season, but there’s something building at the Barr Reserve.
City Colts’ A grade squad are winless from their first three matches of the 2025/26 WDCA season, but their youthful group is improving hand over fist with every game they play.
The young Colts have been resolute in their batting - through their three games this season, they have batted their full allotment of overs bar two balls, showing the talent at Bill O’Callaghan Oval is definitely there.
BY NATHAN DE VRIES ndevries@ nemedia.com.au
Skipper Aaron Thrum said the fight and courage shown by the youthful squad was encouraging.
“We haven’t really rolled over at all, which has been really positive, especially from a young group,” he said.
“We’re definitely seeing the positives, we’re heading in the right direction.
“Everyone’s really putting their hands up, everyone’s really getting
behind what we’re trying to build.
“I’ve been really impressed with everyone.”
Without the batting and bowling talent they had last season, the next cabs off the rank have performed admirably.
“Max Marek has come a long, long way with his batting, in the first two rounds, he really took on a team role,” Thrum said.
“His energy in the field’s been really good, he’s attacking everything, he’s been one that’s stood out for me.
ers are really putting in the effort at training, they’re charging in hard every ball, they’re really trying their absolute heart out for us.”
While they are in a building year, the Colts are well-placed to notch up their first win of the year when they take on Benalla, who are also winless after three matches.
The Bushrangers are dangerous opponents, with big opening batter Brayden Stepien capable of hitting huge scores if he gets off the chain.
“We’re not getting ahead of ourselves at all, we know that any team on their day in this comp can fire,” Thrum said.
“They’ve got Steppo [Brayden Stepien] up the top who can take the game away from you if you let him, so we need to make sure we’re ready to go from ball one.”
City Colts take on Benalla Bushrangers from 12.30pm on Saturday at the picturesque Benalla Gardens Oval.
“Jed [Marek], Connor [Ormond], Alasdair [Brett], our top three bowl-
It will be up to the Colts’ young bowling attack to keep him under control and strike early.
Meanwhile, Rovers United Bruck will head into their scheduled bye with an unbeaten 3-0 record, a scintillating start to their title defence.
