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BIGGER PAY DAY Allowance rise for state’s mayors, y , deputies, p , councillors to help p attract high g calibre candidates

A TRIBUNAL ruling that has effectively triggered higher wages for all Victorian councillors is expected to attract a higher calibre of candidate in years to come. Leading the way in the pay rise stakes are deputy

BY STEVE KELLY skelly@ nemedia.com.au

mayors whose allowances have almost doubled, with Wangaratta‘s Category

2 wage range lifting Cr Harry Bussell‘s pay from $26,245 to $48,235 per annum (backdated to December 18, 2021). Wangaratta mayor Dean Rees now receives $96,470 per annum, up from $81,204, while councillors

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without the higher duty are now paid $30,024, up from $26,245. Cr Rees said the review of councillor allowances is likely to draw out more of the right people to run for council who are prepared to work after hours.

“If the pay rates aren’t good enough, many people would say as a second job, ‘I don‘t really need it considering the small amount of money’,” Cr Rees said. “I believe it will open the door to a lot more skilled people and var-

ied people with different opinions. “Rather than just getting retired people who can spend a bit of time doing it, we need business people who can really develop things in a positive way.” ■ Continued page 2

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Allowance rise to help p attract high g calibre candidates Est. 1884, Incorporating Wangaratta Despatch, Est. 1861

WEATHER

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Follow us ADVERTISING CLOSING TIMES Monday Issue: Display Thurs. 10am. Classifieds Fri. 2.30pm Wednesday Issue: Display Fri. 10am. Classifieds Tues. 2.30pm Friday Issue: Display Tues. 10am. Classifieds Thurs. 2.30pm Published by Hartley Higgins for North East Media Pty Ltd, 37 Rowan Street, Wangaratta 3677. Responsibility for election comment is accepted by Editor Jeff Zeuschner. Copyright: All advertising and editorial content of this issue is the copyright of North East Media Pty Ltd and cannot be used without the company’s permission. The Chronicle is bound by the Standards of Practice of the Australian Press Council. If you believe the standards may have been breached, you may approach the Chronicle itself or contact the council by email at info@presscouncil.org.au or by phone on (02) 9261 1930.

Member

From page 1 F Cr Rees said the deputy mayor used to get the same allowance as other councillors, however, Cr Bussell attends many events either on his own or when the mayor can‘t make it. “The deputy mayor always comes to most of the functions that I get to and steps in and does everything if I’m not available,” Cr Rees said. “He takes on the duty and he feels that it’s a prestigious role

and though he li lives outt off d even th hh town, if I say ‘Harry I need you there‘, he’ll drop everything and he’ll be there. “I’m really lucky that I have such a good, cohesive group of councillors, we disagree about things, but this is only around the councillor chamber but socially we are amicable and respect each other’s opinions.” Cr Rees explained that their standard meetings are every Monday anywhere from 2pm to 8pm and just those hours are to

centage t iincrease on wage every December. The review came about after mayors across the state were quizzed by Minister for Local Government Shaun Leane on how a wider range of people could be attracted to the role of councillor and Cr Rees said a resounding answer was higher wages. Changes were made under the Victorian Independent Remuneration Tribunal and Improving Parliamentary Standards Act 2019.

catch t h up and d go over ttopics. i “This doesn’t include any reading, going out and meeting with people on–site, plus other stints in the office regarding the portfolios,” he said. “Harvey Benton for instance is in every meeting regarding the sport, recreation, swimming pools and ovals because he wants to be included and this takes hours out of his day every week, which I’m in as well.” All councillors will also receive their incremental per-

Victims of crime help to fuel justice inquiry

TEMPERATURES: Friday

■

A STATEWIDE inquiry which began in Wangaratta has recommended 100 changes to address rising rates of imprisonment and recidivism in Victoria’s criminal justice system. Wangaratta–based state MP Tania Maxwell was part of the Legislative Council Legal and Social Issues Committee, as they received 170 submissions and undertook eight days of public hearings, beginning in the rural city last June. Ms Maxwell initiated the review through a referral motion in 2020, which launched a community–based investigation into an ever–increasing prison population and high recidivism rates among offenders. Tabling the findings of the inquiry in front of the Legislative Council this week, Ms Maxwell commended the bravery of victim–survivors who had shared their justice system experiences with the committee throughout the investigation. “I hope the recommendations in relation to victims of crime support will be accepted and implemented by the government as soon as possible,” she said. “Some of these are not new to this parliament and focus on the recurring theme that prevention and early intervention is essential for fair, just, safe communities. “We must make sure that any reforms brought about by this inquiry reduce risk, support community safety and balance the rights of victims over those of offenders – otherwise, we may simply reduce statistics without reducing crime or the

COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW: Wangaratta–based state MP Tania Maxwell and Legal and Social Issues Committee chair Fiona Patten launched the inquiry in Wangaratta last year. harm that accompanies it.” Legal and Social Issues Committee chair Fiona Patten said the committee had targeted those with lived experiences from throughout the state, with early intervention, over–representation by vulnerable populations and victims of crime identified as key areas which needed addressing. She said victims of crime had been integral in shaping the committee‘s 73 findings and 100 recommendations, with a key focus on amending the government‘s Criminal Procedure Act 2009. “We need urgent work to improve the way we deliver justice, to ensure community safety, and to find modern solutions to reduce offending and reoffending,” she said. “Victims told us we need to embed trauma–informed practices

its action and outcomes. “When I brought my referral motion to parliament in June 2020, I noted that significantly driving down crime has to be a goal that we all share,” she said. “We examined the opportunities for reform to break what is often a downward spiral of offending for those caught up in crime, and ultimately how we can limit the lifetime of suffering for those who are victims and survivors. “I look forward to the government‘s careful consideration of the 100 recommendations in this report and I will continue to advocate for their implementation, especially the 31 directed at better supporting victims of crime.” To read the findings of the inquiry in full, visit https://www. parliament.vic.gov.au/lsic–lc/article/4534.

into the design of the justice system – it needs to be more accessible and a less adversarial process for victims of crime. “We just made it a priority to involve as many individuals with lived experience of the justice system as possible – we heard some of the most heart wrenching, tragic evidence from victims of crime who have survived unimaginable loss and grief. “I thank them for their bravery and generosity, and assure them that their contribution was influential on the committee‘s recommendations.” Ms Maxwell said upwards of 50 per cent of Victorian offenders incarcerated would go on to re–offend in the existing justice system, and urged policy makers to ensure the state‘s corrections system remained sufficiently corrective in YOUR LOCAL

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Vicious assault accused remains in custody

SPECTACULAR: The Balloon Glow event, this year on the home straight of Wangaratta racecourse, is sure to be spectacular for families tomorrow night.

Light up the night Come along C l g to ffamily ily ffriendly i dly B Balloon ll Gl Glow fiesta at W Wangaratta g TTurff Cl Club b THE King Valley Balloon Fiesta will fill district skies from this morning until Sunday with a special Balloon Glow event expected to attract 3500 people to the Wangaratta Turf Club tomorrow night from 5pm to 8pm. Every year balloon fanatics head to the King Valley to enjoy the company of the fraternity and the majestic scenery the King Valley has to offer and this year the Balloon Glow will be held at the turf club racecourse for the first time. Tickets to the Balloon Glow have been selling fast and event director Paul Gibbs said it will be a great night for families to get along to see, with up to 14 balloons inflated and glowing down the home straight of the racecourse. The atmosphere on the night will be electric with a lot of work having gone into attracting great producers of food and wine from

BY STEVE KELLY skelly@ nemedia.com.au

the King Valley. A balloon magician from Melbourne, bongo drumming, a tug of war, a sack race, and face painting will keep the kids entertained. Mr Gibbs said they’ve had a good response from producers in the King Valley and Milawa Cheese, and several winemakers will be there, as will night markets. “We’re trying to be a family friendly activity because you can come out and spectate the balloons in the morning free of charge at Brown Brothers and we just love the smiles on little kids’ faces when they see something they haven’t experienced before,” Mr Gibbs said. “The night glow is the thing

that makes it all work because there are costs involved in running the event and we’ve priced it so it’s affordable for parents to bring their kids to the event.” It’s an event attracting people from all over, with eight per cent of tickets sold from Melbourne postcodes and Mr Gibbs said they’ve had enquiries from the Mornington Peninsula and Geelong. The scope of the fiesta event in the North East is strong with a hole in the market since a previous company did it almost 20 years ago. “There are ballooning opportunities in Melbourne and the Yarra Valley, but the whole balloon fiesta experience has never really been portrayed since the guys in Mildura did it in 2004,” Mr Gibbs said. “Since they finished up there has not been any public ballooning events in Victoria, however, there are several in NSW at Lee-

ton and in Canberra. “The King Valley has an opportunity to steal something here and position itself as a leader in ballooning fiesta.” Gates open at the turf club at 4.30pm and balloon glow will be between 7pm and 8pm. Tickets include adults $25, children $5 and infants are free. Premium Balloon Glow Packages in the Oaks Function Centre are available for pre-purchase on at $147.50 per adult. Packages include gourmet canapes and a 4-hour beverage package including CUB beers and ciders, wine and Prosecco, soft drinks and water. A free shuttle bus to and from Wangaratta will also be operating - for locations and times visit https://www.kingvalleyballoonfiesta.com.au/shuttlebus. For tickets visit https://www. kingvalleyballoonfiesta.com.au/ glow.

A WANGARATTA man accused of violently assaulting a male victim while in possession of a knife has been refused bail, amid concerns he could endanger the safety of the community and members of the police force. The 39-year-old appeared in custody at Wangaratta Magistrates Court this week, when it was alleged he had assaulted a man on Morrell Street in the early hours of Tuesday morning, following a verbal altercation. He laughed and coughed throughout a remand summary of his offending, which included charges of intentionally and recklessly causing injury, assault, and commit indictable offence while on bail. Police prosecutor Leading Senior Constable Stuart Pritchard told the court police had attended the scene at around 12:50pm, when they found the applicant in possession of a small paring knife which he told police he had disarmed from the assault victim. The court heard the applicant had allegedly tripped the victim, causing their head to hit the kerb, before repeatedly kicking the fallen 63-year-old man. As of Wednesday, the victim remained in hospital receiving treatment to a number of facial injuries. During what LSC Pritchard said was a “rambling and incoherent” conversation, the applicant alleged the victim had advanced towards him with a knife, however, the physically stronger 39-year-old had quickly overpowered and disarmed the man. LSC Pritchard said while the owner of the knife had yet to be confirmed, the injuries sustained by the victim were largely disproportionate, with the assault resembling a similar incident which the applicant was on bail for at the time of the offending. He said prosecutors harboured serious concerns the applicant would interfere with witnesses if released from police custody, and was “not long out of prison for violent offending and bail offences” at the time of the altercation. Defence counsel Zoe Corbett said her client was at severe risk of becoming institutionalised, and urged Magistrate Ian Watkins to provide one final opportunity to seek help in the community. She said prison had not seemed to impact his behaviour during previous stints. However, Magistrate Watkins was reticent to grant the applicant with another opportunity. “It is a serious example of this offending,” he said. “His prior criminal history is disturbing he’s at the risk of, or on the verge of becoming institutionalised. “His presentation in court gives rise to concern about his health - he would clearly be at risk of reoffending.” The matter is set to return before the courts on April 4.

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Page 4 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, March 25, 2022

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Family violence prevention

By LEAH ANDERSON-BYRNE

RENOWNED feminist writer Clementine Ford, disability activist and writer Carly Findlay and Arrernte woman and opinion writer Celeste Liddle will attend a prevention of family violence event in Wangaratta tonight from 6pm. The women will join the Rural City of Wangaratta community as guest panellists for ‘Preventing family violence: a community conversation’ at the Wangaratta Performing Arts and Convention Centre. The event will also feature gender and disaster expert

Dr Debra Parkinson, and Donna Wheatley of Fire Services Victoria, in recognition of the increased rates of family violence affecting the Rural City of Wangaratta region in the wake of the 2019/2020 bushfires and COVID-19. Ms Wheatley, who has worked with Fire Services Victoria for 20 years, after first working as a family violence outreach worker and studying, said she was “very excited” to be joining the conversation. “I’m so glad that Georgia O’Connor from the rural city has made this event come to life, the panellists are amazing,” she said.

“I’ve been with Fire Services Victoria for 20 years and am currently a commander; in 2018 there were two women who achieved that rank in Victoria for the first time and I was one of them. “I worked in a variety of roles including within the diversity and inclusion team and have been involved across Australasia with Women and Firefighting Australasia (WAFA) and was president in 2018. “Before I joined fire services I was a family violence outreach worker; it was a big career change but both feed into the other and serve the

community in some way.” Due to her understanding of family and gendered violence, Ms Wheatley said her role in facilitating the conversation at tonight’s event will also be in bringing the context of family violence following natural disasters. “One of the best things about my facilitation of the conversation with the panel, who are all extremely skilled within their particular lens, is about getting that context they work within and also understanding the complexity of challenges of responding to emergencies,” she said. “It’s not just a women’s

issue; we’re having a community conversation and empowering everybody to be an advocate for reducing violence against women. “In regional areas, the lack of services traditionally was why it’s important to have these conversations here and despite more services out there, we’re still very thin on the ground. “Then there’s the added complexity with small towns with no rentals, housing, finances, we know those things compound the challenge and it’s hard. “It is in every part of society and if you think it’s not happening in your commu-

nity, think again, because the statistics show us and even then, we know things are underreported. “So come along and learn and get the tools to call it out.” Tickets are $15 and available for purchase via wpacc. com.au. All proceeds will benefit the Victorian Aboriginal Child Care Agency (VACCA). The event is supported by Wangaratta council, with funding from the Victorian State Government’s Primary prevention of violence against women in bushfire affected communities grants program.

Nora cleans up at Fun Run By SIMONE KERWIN NORA Robinson admits she is “litter-phobic”, and can’t simply walk past rubbish lying in the street or school yard. But the 12-year-old stepped her community pride up to new levels while taking part in the Wangaratta Chronicle Marathon and Fun Run’s 2km Primary School Challenge recently. Nora, who is a regular participant in the fun run,

completed her first lap and ran past her mum, Hannah, saying, “Mum, there’s so much rubbish.” She had already dropped an armful of rubbish in the bin after collecting it on her way around the course, before she eventually crossed the finish line with her hands full of another armload - even separating it, with recycling in one hand and general litter in the other. Community-minded Nora, who is the

youngest member of the Wangaratta CWA branch and is involved in Girl Guides in the rural city, has also drawn on the environmental focus of her school, St Patrick’s Primary. Hannah Robinson said her daughter was “a real stickler” for correct rubbish disposal - particularly discarded face masks, which she sees everywhere at the moment. “I’m very proud of her, she’s a good egg,” Hannah said.

CLEANING UP THE COURSE: Nora Robinson (12) just couldn’t run past the rubbish she spotted on the Wangaratta Chronicle Marathon and Fun Run 2km Primary School Challenge course.

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THE CHRONICLE, Friday, March 25, 2022 - Page 5

Feeling let down by NDIS By GRAHAM CLEMENTS

anaging time and finances is hard enough but imagine if your child had autism and the funding in the government support package was cut. That’s what happened to Kathrin Baer, whose 10-year-old son Dean’s National Disability Insurance Scheme support was cut by 30 per cent midway through last year. It meant Kathrin could no longer afford crucial speech therapy sessions for Dean, and they had to cut back on physiotherapy sessions. “Going to the physio is Dean’s opportunity to build his core strength so he can participate in activities at school (even having the strength required to sit upright in chair at school) and work on his general coordination and fitness,” she said. “Dean has a really great relationship with his physio assistant who is able to push him out of his comfort zone and can practice managing frustration in a safe environment he is comfortable with. “We had to prioritise occupational therapy which in itself is less often than he needs it. “We are faced with the decision of do we want him to have support to work on his emotional regulation so he can manage when things don’t go to plan, his social skills so he is better able to interact with those around him and maintain his friendships as he gets older, his fine and gross motor skills so he can actually write his responses to school work, play sport and sit in his chair in class, or work on basic self-care skills.” Kathrin said the cuts to her son’s funding package do not make sense. “I don’t think they (the NDIS) read any of the reports they insisted we provide for them,” she said. “We provided reports from all his allied health

Mum devastated at whyy funding g slashed for son’s autistic support pp We are faced with the decision of do we want him to have support to work on his emotional regulation so he can manage when things don’t go to plan, his social skills so he is better able to interact with those around him and maintain his friendships as he gets older, his fine and gross motor skills so he can actually write his responses to school work, play sport and sit in his chair in class, or work on basic selfcare skills.” - KATHRIN BAER NOT HAPPY: Kathrin Baer can’t understand why NDIS funding for her son Dean has been cut. team but they certainly have not provided anywhere what was asked for therapy wise. “In the Freedom of Information request I made, they mentioned that we underspent on his last plan (which was his first plan ever) - there was $1000 left because of a variety of reasons including availability of services, learning who to refer to (we do not have support coordination), COVID appointment cancellations, and I was so cautious to not overspend so made sure I stretched the plan out over the full year. “I thought I did really well budgeting, they thought it meant our therapy funding

should be halved.” Kathrin applied for a review in August but is still waiting for follow up calls from the NDIS. “I am on a Facebook discussion group with parents of children with autism and every day there are posts about funding cuts,” she said.

ccording to NDIA, which administers the NDIS, “there is no directive to reduce funding to any NDIS participant plans, for any disability category”. A NDIA spokesperson said total support for NDIS participants with autism equalled $6.5 billion at December 31, 2021, and

some 33 per cent of NDIS participants have autism (167,111 in total), making it the largest disability group accessing the NDIS. “It is important to note NDIS participant plans can go up or down depending on an individual’s changing disability-related needs,” NDIA said is a statement. “Funding for a participant’s plan is based on the reasonable and necessary supports a participant requires. “There are a range of reasons why a participant plan may go up or down, including up-front funding for equipment or transitioning to a more stable phase of support. “Review outcomes are

dependent on individuals’ circumstances, and all NDIA decisions continue to be made in accordance with the NDIS Act.” Indi independent federal MP Helen Haines, said experiences like those faced by Kathrin and young Dean show accessing supports is “too difficult and frustrating”. “Even when someone is an approved participant, plans are getting cut in an opaque system that is difficult to challenge,” she said. Dr Haines said she had successfully advocated on behalf of many NDIS participants in Indi. “It shouldn’t be up to individuals to make timeconsuming Freedom of

Information requests to understand why their plans have been reduced, the system should be much easier to understand,” she said. “The rate of adverse decisions (cuts) appears to be on the increase, particularly in regards to people living with autism. “I believe the government must invest properly in the NDIS, focusing on an adequately trained and qualified workforce. “The NDIA staffing cap must be lifted so that NDIS participants in rural and regional areas can access the services they need without waiting months.” Dr Haines made a submission to the Tune Review into the NDIS, recommending participants be able to approve their plans before they are agreed with the agency, there be better training for planners, and housing be considered in the planning process. She also recommended that plans in rural and regional Australia account for travel costs, where services are often harder to access. “I call on the government to implement all the recommendations of the Tune Review and focus on improving the experience of families like Kathrin and Dean, instead of searching for ways to make accessing help more difficult,” Dr Haines said. Labor shadow minister for the NDIS, Bill Shorten, who visited Wangaratta last week, said he had listened to “people in Benalla, Wangaratta and Beechworth tell some disturbingly similar stories”. “There are clearly some big problems with the way the NDIS is being administered and the fact the experiences are so diverse is deeply concerning,” Mr Shoten said. “After nine years of mismanagement it is time for the NDIS to be run properly.”

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Page 6 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, March 25, 2022

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High school leader loves his new surrounds DAVE Armstrong says he’s feeling “blessed” as he settles into his new role as Wangaratta High School executive principal. “This campus, this school is off-the-dial - it’s one of the best school campuses I’ve been to - from the layout of the classrooms to the technology; it’s very impressive,” he said. Along with the facilities, Mr Armstrong said the friendliness of the students, and the commitment of staff to caring for them, had stood out to him during his first weeks in Wangaratta. “When I landed this job, I felt like the luckiest school leader there is,” he said. “This is the only public

BY SIMONE KERWIN skerwin@ nemedia.com.au

secondary school in Wangaratta, and it’s going well. Its growth and improvement is not coming accidentally there is a very sophisticated plan in place, and the department views Wangaratta High School as an important school in Victoria. “Our enrolment is growing, and that’s a significant measure of the success of a school.” Mr Armstrong began his principalship at the 650-student Edwards Street school

last week, after relocating from Vanuatu, where he had been principal of the Port Vila International School for just over two years. After being offered the Wangaratta role in December, he stayed on to assist with the beginning of the 2022 school year in Vanuatu. His appointment at Wangaratta High School heralds a change in more than location, as his career to date has been spent in the independent and international education sector, and much of his recent experience has been in K-12 schools. He is looking forward to bringing the skills gathered from his time in Vanuatu

HAPPY TO BE HERE: New Wangaratta High School executive principal Dave Armstrong feels lucky to have taken on the role of leading the Edwards Street school. PHOTO: Simone Kerwin

An new ew lleader eade brings a lot of value, because you are not part of the organisation yet and may notice things others don’t, but I’m aiming for ‘thoughtful opinions held loosely’. - WHS EXECUTIVE PRINCIPAL DAVE ARMSTRONG to his new role, along with knowledge from five years as deputy principal at The Scots School Albury, and 18 years working at St Philip’s College in Alice Springs. His time in Alice Springs, where he and wife Sue were married, connected him with Mittagundi Outdoor Education Centre and further developed his love of Victorian High Country terrain. The move to Wangaratta is a chance to again immerse himself in his favourite landscape of mountains and rivers, and to hark back to his early teaching days in outdoor education, which has remained a passion and he says has helped inform his

work with young people. “Wangaratta High School has a great reputation in this space, and I hope to build on that,” he said. “Mountain biking and skiing are real passions of mine, and I hope I can mobilise engagement in those areas.” He will also draw on a strong background in governance and leadership, and says his initial approach is to “look, listen and learn” about his new school. “A new leader brings a lot of value, because you are not part of the organisation yet and may notice things others don’t, but I’m aiming for ‘thoughtful opinions held loosely’,” he said.

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After a period of changing leadership at the high school, Mr Armstrong said he hoped to bring stability to the role. “I’m here for the longterm; this is where I want to be,” he said. Mr Armstrong’s children, Alec (year eight) and Lucy (year seven), have joined him at Wangaratta High School as students, and he is keen to promote the value of local public education. “I think regional Victoria is a fantastic place to be educating your family,” he said. “I want to raise the profile and showcase just how good public education is in Wangaratta,” he said.

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NOTE: Comments as they appear online, without corrections.

Touch choice for sports lovers THE clash tomorrow between the WDCA grand finals and the opening round of the Ovens and King Football Netball League will prove a headache for players, supporters, officials and spectators. For those who love both one will have to be sacrificed, a true King Solomon‘s choice. Traditionally, summer sports were allowed to complete their season before the winter sports competitions kicked off but for some reason this year that hasn‘t happened. For those who are passionate about both, it’s a no win situation. Do you complete your duties with your cricket club and have a rare chance of premiership glory or do you let your teammates down to pursue your football goals. Winter sports have become far stronger in regards to spectators, players, and sponsors which in turn has given them a substantial financial edge which can be the main incentive for the players choice. Even country clubs are mandating players to participate in training and preseason matches ahead of summer competitions which have seen a gradual eroding of player numbers in some summer sports. Playing multiple sports can bring many physical, social and mental benefits and even leads to improving skills of each. It also provides greater choice for individuals which means more people can be involved. Our society needs the variety and out state and national teams need these country competitions to remain strong as potential feeders for future representative teams. There is room for both and hopefully a clash can be avoided next year.

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

DOWN 2 Accomplished 3 Musical dramas 4 Stories 5 Custom 6 Begin 7 Rider’s seat 8 Unbleached linen 15 Give up 16 Wretchedness 17 Resort of the learned 18 Determine 20 Attempt 22 Mockery 24 Charging with gas 26 Female swan 29 Offer 30 Fair-dealing 32 Female horses 33 Discovers 35 Irritation SOLUTION A E R A T I N G

E S

E C H R U M I S E R Y

ACROSS 1 Slang 5 Sibilate 9 Heathen 10 Sly 11 Ship of the desert 12 Restrain 13 Send money 14 Percussion instrument 17 King with the Golden Touch (myth) 19 Knighthood 21 Puts to a purpose 23 Spheres of action 25 Dry, of wines 26 Devoutness 27 Scottish river 28 Garbled30 German title of respect 31 Material for overalls 33 Raid34 Bearing 36 Small room 37 Sullen 38 Winter pear 39 Pimples 40 Is ahead 41 Regrets 42 Elevated platform

H I S S A N A R B I N D I T D R T I T L E A R E N E T Y D E H E M F O R A B I N R N E L E A D S S S T A

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Bruce Love: Couldn’t understand how this was allowed to happen, and how it’s taken so long to be acted upon. It’s amazing what a billionaire’s son can contrive in the name of making money. It’s a strang lopsided

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world. Angel Lee: sounds like that place has a lot to answer for!!! My dad used to work there in the 80’s he’s paying for now tho.

Facebook users also commented on a $480m Federal Government investment in higher speed NBN as part of the 2022-23 Federal Budget.

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Viviane King: Anyone would think there’s an election coming up. I’ve experienced better coverage

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in remote parts of Asia Paul Crabb: If the LNP hadn’t scuttled the original NBN install we would have had a world leading network now ! But due to self invested interference we now have a grossly more expensive dud Caroline Aylward: I swear Ive heard that promise before! John Harper: In the meantime, those of us who have fixed wireless have no guarantee of safe and

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reliable communications in the event of an emergency. And if you’re out and about forget about reliable mobile communications.

Like the

Facebook users also Wangaratta commented on the shock Chronicle retirement of Australian Facebook tennis great Ash Barty. page Jill Lindquist: Ash to have your say. Barty’s grace, good sportsmanship and humility Our likes total is has been outstanding. A fine example to other players and to aspiring

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12,313

champions.

Have your say in Wangaratta Chronicle poll

Visit our website to vote at www.wangarattachronicle.com.au

Excise cut mustn’t hurt rural roads THE Victorian Farmers Federation (VFF) is seeking a commitment from the Federal Government that any potential cuts to the fuel excise in next week’s federal budget will not impact road funding. Our entire community and especially rural residents are hurting from the current high fuel prices, but we need assurances from the government that road funding will not be impacted. Charges applied to road users through the fuel excise are used to pay for the construction and maintenance of roads. A temporary reduction in fuel excise of 10 cents a litre for six months could cost the government an estimated $1.5 billion. Our regional road networks are in desperate need of funding. It’s damning that since 2009, the Australian Government has spent less than half of net excise on roads. In the 2020 federal budget papers, the government committed the proportion of net fuel excise being invested in land transport infrastructure increasing from 82 per cent in 2020-21, to 100 per cent by 2022-23. Australians deserve to have their fuel taxes reinvested into our road networks to ensure they are safer and more efficient. Users of our regional roads are crying out for funding. Any changes to the fuel excise must be temporary and not impact road funding. Emma Germano, VFF president

Renewal good but expansion needed

T A G L E M S R P I E D N I C O U L U E

G O P M E R D A E S C I T D E E N D N E R

A R E C A L M I U S S E E D U M I T A C H

FACEBOOK users this week commented on the court appearance of the former chief executive of Bruck Textiles, who is alleged to have barred employees from accessing entitlements in 2014.

THE Royal Australasian College of Physicians (RACP) welcomes the Federal Government’s decision to renew funding for training positions for specialists in regional areas, as these are a critical component in ensuring communities have access to specialist health care. There remains a significant shortage of non-GP specialists in many rural and regional areas, and the RACP encourages the government to expand the program to allow for more positions for specialists to be trained. The RACP currently administers around 380 specialist training program positions across Australia. The number of places may not be truly enough to address the under resourcing in regional areas. The most common request we receive from medical facilities and physicians is

Do you think the increase in remuneration for Victorian councillors is justified? MMM YUM: Did someone say lobster? Spectators (from left, back) Luke Norman, Ben Jackel, Robbie Dwyer, Paul Dale, Ron Graham and (front) Al Saunders didn’t just have an appetite for good cricket, watching Rovers United Bruck A grade cricketers beat Yarrawonga-Mulwala at the WJ Findlay oval last Saturday to progress to tomorrow’s WDCA grand final against Wangaratta Magpies. They also couldn’t wait to tuck into their 2.8kg lobster brought fresh from Port Campbell and cooked at the cricket. PHOTO: Melissa Beattie about securing funding for additional training positions. The STP program has now been in place for 10 years and it has been some time since the base program has added funding for additional STP positions. The RACP has a waiting list of well over 100 STP positions that are currently unfunded by the program, and we are likely to add even more during next year’s STP Expression of Interest round. There is no shortage of interest in these positions - the limiting factor is available government funding. If the Federal Government wants to support specialist care in regional areas, the RACP also strongly recommends continuing phone Telehealth for specialist items beyond the current cut-off date of June 30. Currently phone Telehealth MBS items for specialist are due to stop on June 30. Despite the requests from the RACP, the government is yet to commit to extending these items or making them permanent. The use of telehealth in STP had been previously in place but was discontinued in 2019. With the pandemic, telehealth has become a necessary tool in providing medical care in regional areas and reintroducing it as part of the program is needed. Cutting off phone Telehealth items for specialist care will have a devastating impact on people in regional and remote areas who currently rely on these items to access this care. Professor John Wilson, RACP president

POLL RESULTS CASUAL SICK PAY Should casual workers be paid sick leave by employers?

30 37 voyteessteto noon

Yes

rday

THIS WEEK Do you think the increase in remuneration for Victorian councillors is justified?

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

edit.chronicle@nemedia.com.au

Post

Letters to the Editor, 37 Rowan St, Wangaratta 3677

THE CHRONICLE, Friday, March 25, 2022 - Page 9

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NOTE: Comments as they appear online, without corrections. FACEBOOK users this week commented on our web poll, which asked “Should casual workers be paid sick leave by employers?” Bellini Homer: We need every worker for the recovery of our economy – the best way to do that is through secure work. This scheme will protect more Victorians and give them the support they need when they’re sick or caring for a loved one. Timothy Thompson Simpson: Once again our Man Dan leads the way. This ought not to be the work

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of a state government, We should have a national government that understands that insecure work is absolutely toxic. It’s not a matter of we can do something, we must do something. Leslie Matthews: Yes. Among the many things that the pandemic highlighted is the poor treatment of casual workers who are often our most valuable workers. Georgina Rea: Leslie Matthews totally agree. Robyn Laskovas: No Bobby Hutch: They already

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get compensated with a higher wage, so no. Leslie Matthews: Bobby Hutch So you would prefer to see casual workers still go to work even though they may very well be carrying a virus say? A ‘higher wage’ may sound like a lot to someone who isn’t being paid as a casual worker but in terms of a living wage it falls far short. Bobby Hutch: Leslie Matthews If you want sick days take a lower wage Angella Francis: Bobby

•

• • Hutch Are you for real?!? Just one

example for you. Casual Relief Teachers have been working their butts off over the COVID pandemic - covering for their colleagues short term during regular learning or on campus during remote learning when full time staff were delivering classes remotely & those students who couldn’t learn at home were supported on campus. If relief teachers are sick there is no payments for them. Relief teachers are already reduced with their workable days confined to school teaching days around 40 weeks a year.

Like the

Wangaratta Chronicle Facebook page to have your say.

Our likes total is

12,310

Tweet Michael O’Reilly TWITTER users this week tweeted about public transport challenges, a move for former Centre CEO Felicity Williams, and an important birthday for the volunteers of Wangaratta’s Lions Club.

Sarahcraven_photographer

Yesterday, I’m gonna keep this short and sweet. Absolute. Bloody. Legends. From the moments, the laughs, the tears and the dance floor this wedding was epic. We did not miss a thing and I’m so humbled and grateful to be the one that captured every moment.

Mick Jeffrey @MHJeffrey027 Almost every line on the Vline network is undergoing maintenance. My train to Wangaratta (Albury Line) is a bus replacement Umfc @umfc On behalf of the Board I wish to advise that Ms Felicity Williams has been appointed as the new UMFC CEO. Felicity has previously acted as CEO of The Centre for Continuing Education in Wangaratta since 2014 and brings extensive NFP sector experience and business/strategic acumen. Lions Club of Wangaratta @LionsWangaratta Last night the Lions Club of Wangaratta celebrated its 66th anniversary. Lions Rob McLeish, Ray Dunstan and Neil Campbell cut the cake. #wearelions #weserve

@MichaelOReilly_ The cycling rail trail from Wangaratta to Beechworth. I was warned of “The Hill” but being a rail trail it was a nice, steady gradient.

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

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

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Page 10 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, March 25, 2022

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Theft of child foiled A GRANDMOTHER who conspired with two other family members to take her infant granddaughter in the middle of the night has been placed on a good behaviour bond. The Deniliquin woman, who was 49 years old at the time of the 2012 offending, faced Wangaratta Magistrates Court this week, when she admitted to taking the child from her bed amid concerns for the child’s welfare. Police prosecutor Leading Senior Constable Sarah Williamson told the court the child had been left at home in the care of four friends while the accused’s daughter worked an evening shift at a Wangaratta business on September 2. The accused and two co-accused were said to have visited the business to confirm the mother was working at around 10pm, before travelling to the daughter’s Wangaratta home and attempting to gain entry via a rear door. When the trio were unable to do so, they circled to the front door of the residence, when one of the co-accused used a false name to gain access to the home. The granddaughter was later located at the accused’s Thoona home at approximately 4am, before the accused made full admissions to planning to remove the child. The accused, who pleaded guilty without a lawyer, said serious allegations around her daughter had led herself, the child’s father, and the accused’s other daughter to take the matter into their own hands. “We had to do this to try and get her help,” she told the court. One of the co-accused was said to have pleaded guilty to the matter previously. Magistrate Victoria Campbell said the age of the matters were of primary concern, and placed the defendant on a 12-month good behaviour bond without conviction.

SNACK TIME: New catering facilities are being tested on half of the six three-car VLocity train sets destined for the North East rail line.

VLocity trains get catering upgrades TESTING of new VLocity trains equipped with catering upgrades is currently being conducted on the North East rail line. Two of the six three-car train sets now have the new catering facilities and the full rollout of trains is due by mid-year. The all-new purpose-built modern catering facilities were designed in response to passenger feedback and will be rigorously tested to ensure reliable operation for passengers. One six-car train set became

operational on the line on December 30 last year, providing passengers with a more modern, comfortable journey between Albury and Melbourne. A government spokesperson said thousands of passengers are already enjoying the smoother, more reliable VLocity trains between Melbourne and Albury, and we will soon see the full benefits of the new trains. “The new catering facilities are the first of their kind on a VLocity train and we are proud to

be delivering these new trains for communities across North East Victoria,” the spokesperson said. The standard gauge trains are the first of their kind and will replace old classic fleet trains on the line. Trains feature USB chargers, new bike and luggage racks, shared tables, and six accessible spaces for people who use mobility aids with companion seats nearby. The six, three-car standardgauge VLocity trains for the

Too many workers face this every day It’s never ok

worksafe.vic.gov.au/itsneverok

North East line are part of an 18 train, $340 million order funded in the 2019/20 Victorian budget. New rolling stock comes after extensive track works were carried out on the North East line to improve travel times and safety. The Victorian Government has invested over $7.5 billion in a pipeline of new and upgraded rolling stock and supporting infrastructure since 2015, improving journeys for passengers and supporting up to 10,000 jobs across the state.

wangarattachronicle.com.au

THE CHRONICLE, Friday, March 25, 2022 - Page 11

College celebrates new chapel’s opening CATHEDRAL College’s new $2.8 million chapel was unveiled to the school community yesterday during a consecration and dedication service at the Murdoch Road campus. Three Anglican Diocese of Wangaratta bishops - current Bishop of Wangaratta Clarence Bester, along with ninth Bishop David Farrer and 10th Bishop John Parkes (who is now part of the Cathedral College chaplaincy team) - were part of the celebration to open the Chapel of the Good Shepherd. Adrian Farrer, who was principal of the school from 2013 until the end of 2019,

BY SIMONE KERWIN skerwin@ nemedia.com.au

was also able to attend. Bishop Parkes said the chapel was even better in reality than he had dreamed it would be, and its placement at the centre of the campus signalled its importance to the college. Bishop Bester agreed, saying completion of the building and its first official use was “a wow moment”, and helped to clearly illustrate Cathedral College’s identity

as an Anglican school. Principal Nick Jones said planning for the chapel began in 2019, with initial plans for its opening last year delayed due to the impact of COVID-19. “It’s great to be able to have a celebration now, and nice that we can all gather together; we’ve really missed that over the last two years,” Mr Jones said. Mr Jones said the chapel, a significant investment by the school and the Anglican Schools Commission, was at the physical and spiritual heart of the school. He described it as a mag-

OPPORTUNITY TO GATHER: Cathedral College Wangaratta community members, school captains Skip Pieper and Isabella Bridgeman, Bishop of Wangaratta Clarence Bester, principal Nick Jones, bishop’s chaplain Fr Scott Jessup, chaplain Cathy Carden, chaplaincy team member Bishop John Parkes and chaplain Mark Mickelburough, in the school’s new Chapel of the Good Shepherd. PHOTO: Kurtis Hickling nificent space, featuring a back-lit cross behind the altar, professional audiovisual and lighting facilities, oak-style wood panelling and glass doors which open out to the verandah. It can seat 330 people across the main space and the side chapel (the latter to be named for St Catherine of Alexandria, patron saint of students and teachers), with capacity for a further 300 to be seated under the verandah. Mr Jones said it was hoped those with connections to the college would seek to use the chapel for ceremonies such as weddings, christen-

ings, baptisms and funerals in future, to maintain their links with the school. “Reaction to the chapel has been really positive. When the cross on the roof was installed last year, people mentioned how striking it was as they drove past, and the community feedback has been fantastic,” he said. The chapel is the latest in a series of building projects at the college, including last year’s opening of its new hockey pitch, and Mr Jones said the completion of the chapel signalled the start of a period of consolidation for the school.

He said one of the college’s strategic priorities was to connect with the community, and wherever possible, facilities including the school oval were available to be utilised by local groups. “We have the Murray Bushrangers, some Ovens and King and Ovens and Murray teams, and junior football teams using the oval, as well as the hockey club making use of the pitch,” he said. “We’re certainly hoping if people would like to visit the school, that they will drop in and say hello and we can show them through the chapel.”

OPEN TOUR Monday 28th March 2022 - 4.00pm - 5.30pm

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2-12 Williams Road, Wangaratta | Telephone: 5721 4431 | www.sbwangaratta.catholic.edu.au

Page 12 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, March 25, 2022

wangarattachronicle.com.au

NATIONAL NEWS

Furore over two Victorian Lib MPs’ actions

VICTORIA’S opposition is facing questions about cultural issues within the party after scandals emerged on the same day about two state Liberal MPs. Shadow treasurer David Davis was told to leave an event for being too intoxicated and Liberal MP Wendy Lovell has been accused of “postcode snobbery” for her comments on social housing. Ms Lovell, who served as housing minister over four years until 2014, told the upper house during a debate on the Greens’ homelessness bill

on Wednesday there was no point placing social housing in wealthy suburbs. “There is no point putting a very low income, probably welfare-dependent family in the best street in Brighton where the children cannot mix with others or go to the school with other children or where they do not have the same ability to have the latest in sneakers and iPhones etc,” she said. “We have got to make sure that people can actually fit into a neighbourhood, that they have a good life and that

people are not stigmatising them because of their circumstances.” Opposition Leader Matthew Guy said Ms Lovell’s comments were “exceptionally clumsy” but that she meant well. Premier Daniel Andrews said Ms Lovell’s remarks were shameful and “fundamentally wrong”. “I see some some pretty pathetic attempts to try and explain this away - ‘she meant well’. No she didn’t,” he told reporters. “This is an appalling exam-

ple of the Liberal Party’s postcode snobbery,” Housing Minister Richard Wynne said in a statement. “Matthew Guy should step in and apologise, not just on behalf of the Liberal Party, he should apologise to all those who have lived in public housing.” Greens leader Samantha Ratnam said the comments were offensive and perpetuated existing stereotypes about people who live in social and public housing. “There were members of parliament who spoke so pas-

sionately and eloquently yesterday about growing up in public housing,” she told reporters. “Unfortunately the Liberals have form when it comes to these kinds of myths and stereotypes.” Meanwhile, Mr Davis apologised on Thursday after reports emerged he was thrown out of a gala event on Saturday. “It’s clear I did the wrong thing on Saturday night, and I’ve apologised for that. I’m quite remorseful,” he told reporters. “I did drink too much and

FIRST MEETING: Professor Eleanor Bourke (second right) speaks as the Yoorrook Justice Commission gets underway.

thereby that’s my mistake.” Deputy Premier James Merlino said Mr Davis had a pattern of similar behaviour and called for Mr Guy to “clean his own house”. Mr Guy, who also attended the event, only found out about the incident on Wednesday. “He wouldn’t be the first politician to commit this sin and I’m sure he’s not the last one. He’s apologised for it, that’s the right thing to do. I’ve expressed my disappointment to him about that,” he said. -AAP

(Diego Fedele/AAP PHOTOS)

Victorian truth-telling inquiry plans for change A VICTORIAN truth-telling commission investigating injustices against Aboriginal people hopes its work will pave the way for change across Australia. The Yoorrook Justice Commission, the nation’s first truth-telling inquiry, met for the first time in Melbourne on Thursday. Commission chair Professor Eleanor Bourke said Yoorrook, which holds the powers of a Royal Commission, will set an example for other jurisdictions. “We are different,” the Wer-

gaia and Wemba Wemba/Wamba Wamba elder said. “We’ve created protocols around how we manage our engagement with the community in a way that we hope is welcoming and comforting. “Treaty is on the agenda in other places and they are watching us. It’s even been said to me, ‘don’t muck it up’.” At Thursday’s ceremonial hearing, or wurrek tyerrang, the commission outlined its work, guidelines, and practice direc-

tions on truth-telling. Prof Bourke said the commission was striving to create an official record of what has happened to Aboriginal people in Victoria, from the stories of Indigenous people. Yoorrook will also look at what changes need to happen across areas like the justice and health systems. “Whatever system you want to pick, we’re still in a colonial construct, or in silos created by other people,” Prof Bourke said.

Australia secures Moderna vaccine facility AUSTRALIA will get a manufacturing hub for mRNA vaccines as part of a multibillion-dollar agreement with pharmaceutical giant Moderna. The announcement comes as the country’s leading vaccine advisory group is set to hand down its advice on whether a fourth dose will be needed for vulnerable people. The research and development hub will be based in Victoria at a location yet to be decided, and serve as the headquarters for the company’s operations in Australia, Southeast Asia and Oceania.

The hub will be the first of its type in the southern hemisphere, with construction to begin by the end of the year. Production at the site is expected to start from 2024. While the facility will manufacture COVID-19 vaccines, it will also focus on other respiratory illnesses, including seasonal flu and respiratory syncytial virus. The manufacturing hub is expected to produce about 100 million mRNA vaccines annually. Prime Minister Scott Morrison called the facility a “shot in the arm” to help protect Australians from fu-

ture pandemics. “What we’re announcing today is absolutely essential for future pandemic preparedness, and we’re already ranked number two in the world on pandemic preparedness,” he told reporters in Melbourne. Health Minister Greg Hunt said the facility could potentially produce a combined COVID-19 and flu vaccine. “Moderna has looked around the world and they partnered with Australia, and we have partnered with them,” he said. -AAP

“That doesn’t really suit us because everything’s connected in our culture.” The Yoorrook commissioners will begin visiting regional Victoria this week to speak with elders. Prof Bourke said the commission was “hungry” for those face-to-face talks after COVID-19 restrictions moved most of the discussions online. “We will feel so much better about engaging with our people on their country, in their place,

and hear their voices,” she said. Tony McAvoy, one of the counsels assisting Yoorrook, said the task ahead would not be easy. “While we might have many expressions of political will, of good conscience, the difficulty largely lies in the bureaucracy,” he said. “The bureaucracy in this state, as in other states and territories in this country, is colonial. It’s not designed for First Nations people and so our job is a difficult one.” -AAP

Raise Victorian criminality age: report A MAJOR inquiry into Victoria’s justice system has backed calls to raise the age of criminal responsibility and found changes to the state’s bail system led to a massive rise in people on remand. Parliament’s Legal and Social Issues Committee on Thursday submitted its report into the state’s criminal justice system, making 100 recommendations across courts, policing, rehabilitation, parole and corrections. It recommends the Victorian government raise the minimum age of criminal responsibility, currently 10-years-old, to at least 14.

The inquiry also recommended independent oversight, better transparency and accountability of Victoria Police bail decisions. It found changes to the state’s bail system in 2013 and 2017-18 led to a massive rise in the number of people on remand, with the figure tripling to about 3000 by 2019. Other recommendations included changes to legislation, calls for more legal aid funding and investment in early intervention. Committee chair MP Fiona Patten said it was one of the most substantial inquiries into the state’s criminal jus-

tice system. “If we’re going to keep our community safe, if we’re going to stop recidivism, if we are going to stop crime all together and therefore reduce the number of victim survivors that we have in our community, then we have to do things differently,” she said. “We have to address how we deal with bail. We know that 80 per cent of people going to prison are unsentenced. We have to look at how we deal with parole. We have to actually go to the core of what causes people to interact with our justice system.” -AAP

wangarattachronicle.com.au

THE CHRONICLE, Friday, March 25, 2022 - Page 13

UNITED IN ACTION: Dee Newton, Ian Newton, Dean Rees, Tim McCurdy, Tom McCurdy and Glenys McCurdy.

REBEL WITH A CAUSE: Tim McCurdy (MLA, Ovens Valley) looked at home on a Harley Davidson.

Hundreds ride to fight black dog By RYAN MALCOLM SOME 240 motorbikes were heard convoying throughout the North East on Sunday, raising awareness and exhibiting their support for mental health as part of the Black Dog Ride. Along a route which saw riders take in the region’s high country scenery at Beechworth, Stanley, Myrtleford, Dederang and Yackandandah, motorcyclists flocked from as far as Ben-

digo to show their support for the cause. Wangaratta event organiser Kurt Dissegna said the ride, which began at Wangaratta’s Apex Park, had been a roaring success. Mr Dissegna had previously expected just shy of 100 people to take part. “It was a bloody good day,” he said. “We had a big rush of people signing up late because they found out the weather was going to be good.

“We raised more than $6000 on the day - I’m not sure of online sales but over $6000 on the day.” Taking part in the ride was Nationals MP for Ovens Valley Tim McCurdy, who said the impetus placed on mental health awareness in recent times needed to continue. “There has never been a time where mental health awareness has been so prominent, yet there is still more to do,” he said. “Too many of our friends

and family suffer every day from the ‘black dog’, and other mental health issues, and are unable to get the support they need. “Small things, such as checking in on your mates can make a huge difference, as too many people are lost to the black dog each year.” He said the Liberals and Nationals have a strong plan to recover and rebuild Victoria’s mental health support system, which he believes has been decimated over the past

two years during COVID-19 lockdowns and restrictions. “We have seen over the past two years, the state’s mental health system come under even more pressure, which is why the Liberal and Nationals have committed to hiring more mental health support workers, and ensuring we properly fund and resource the mental health sector,” Mr McCurdy said. “We need to ensure that we can fight the black dog, and that every Victorian has quick,

easy and affordable access to the support they need.” Ably supported by the Lions club, who provided a barbecue upon the riders’ return to Wangaratta, Mr Dissegna said there had been a sense of unity about the day. “The Lions club did an absolutely awesome job,” he said. “We couldn’t do it without local community support and the help of our volunteers.”

-RLQ RXU %RDUG RI 'LUHFWRUV PDNH D GLIIHUHQFH LQ \RXU FRPPXQLW\ We are seeking suitably skilled and community-minded people to join our Board. An award-winning not-for-profit organisation, Junction Support Services works with individuals and families to support them to achieve their full potential. To enhance our Board's expertise we are ideally seeking candidates with specific skills in one or more of the following areas: not-for-profit governance, finance and risk management, IT and social media, business growth and social entrepreneurship, real estate and housing. A voluntary role, this is an opportunity for professional development and to make a difference in your community.

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As part of our commitment to diversity, the Board strongly encourages expressions of interest from young people over 18 years, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and people from culturally diverse backgrounds.

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Page 14 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, March 25, 2022

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And the sceptics said you’d never make it

Wangaratta g Festival of Jazz & Blues 30 Years book launch

BOOK RELEASE: David Tenebaum (right) from Melbourne Books with authors Avra and Adrian Jackson. There were many challenges and obstacles along the way. The book Wangaratta Festival of Jazz & Blues 30 Years is the behind the scenes story of how they were overcome, told by its artistic director of 27 years standing Adrian Jackson and his sister and fellow journalist and critic Avra Jackson. It is also the story of how musicians and punters alike embraced the festival told through their recollections.

Leading local and overseas musicians have written about their experience of the festival, one where the usual performer/audience barriers are broken down and musicians walk around freely through the crowds and rub shoulders with punters. Wangaratta Festival of Jazz & Blues 30 Years, published by Melbourne Books, is also a tribute to a rural success story, of a town that pulled off

Wangaratta's Premier Riverside location

WITH MARC PAOLA SATURDAY, 26TH MARCH FROM 8.30PM

what it was told couldn’t be done. The book, which will be officially launched at the Wangaratta Library on April 7 with the authors in attendance to autograph copies, is available now from Booktique Wangaratta, online via www. melbournebooks.com.au, or at the launch. The book also includes an annual glossary of every band and musician that has played at the festival.

By RYAN MALCOLM EMERGENCY service crews were forced to dismantle play equipment, as they endeavoured to rescue a child who had become trapped at a Beechworth school. SES, CFA and Ambulance crews responded to the Junction Road premises around 4pm on Tuesday afternoon, following reports a child had become entangled in a gap between two metal handrails. Beechworth SES unit controller Charles Dean said response teams had been shocked to find the child in such a predicament. “It was a piece of play equipment where a child’s leg has just slipped through,” he said. “I really have no idea how it was possible to get through - it was a combination of climbing along the handrails and having very thin legs.” CFA crews managed to unfasten bolts which were locking the handrail in place, freeing the child. “After about five minutes, the child was running around again happily,” Mr Dean said. The child, who received a comprehensive tour of the CFA truck on-scene, was uninjured, with a Department of Education spokesperson confirming they had returned to school the following day.

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STEP 3 ORGANISE AND UNDERTAKE THE INSTALLATION

Home Heating and Cooling Upgrade rebates are available for rental properties to lower running costs and improve the health and wellbeing for renters. Under the Home Heating and Cooling Upgrades Program, eligible rental properties can receive up to $1,700 towards the cost of an energy-efficient reverse-cycle air conditioner to upgrade inefficient gas heaters, electric heaters, and wood heaters.

ELIGIBLE APPLICANTS CAN RECEIVE UP TO $1,700: - $1,000 towards the cost of supplying and installing an eligible Daikin reverse cycle air conditioner - $500 towards the cost of upgrading the electric switchboard (if an upgrade is required to install the eligible Daikin reverse cycle air conditioner)

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THE sceptics said it couldn’t be pulled off. How on earth could a town like Wangaratta in rural Victoria host a jazz festival? Even if the town managed to get a jazz festival off the ground for a year or two, it couldn’t possibly last, the doubters said. Now 30 years later, the festival having also added on a blues event, is firmly established as Australia’s leading jazz festival, bringing musicians and punters from all over Australia together. It has won tourism awards and is now ranked as a Hallmark event by the Victorian Government. To the international jazz fraternity, especially in America, Wangaratta became well known as the place that hosted one of the most discerning and cutting edge jazz festivals on the international jazz festival circuit. Word of mouth glowing endorsements from returning overseas musicians who had performed at the festival secured its reputation. But the festival’s success didn’t just happen overnight. It evolved through careful planning, astute decisions, the search for an artistic director able to create a jazz festival that could differentiate itself from the host of jazz festivals around Australia, and most importantly with the support of the townspeople.

Primary student rescued

WHO IS ELIGIBLE? Renters with an approved concession card, or with a combined household income of less than $90,000 are eligible. Rental properties earning $500 or less a week rent, or with the potential to $500 or less a week if unoccupied, are also eligible.

FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT US IMPORTANT: Households must prove that they are eligible under this program with a Rebate Token before purchasing a Daikin reverse cycle air conditioner. Reverse cycle air conditioners can only be installed by an approved Supplier (that’s us, O’Briens) under the program, and must be licensed by Energy Safe Victoria and the Victorian Building Authority where relevant. Terms and conditions apply. For full details, go to heatingupgrades.vic.gov.au

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THE CHRONICLE, Friday, March 25, 2022 - Page 15

Moving forward, giving back BankWAW. Your local customer-owned bank.

Before making a decision regarding a product or service offered by BankWAW, please consider its appropriateness to your ﬁnancial circumstances by reading the terms and conditions available at bankwaw.com.au or any BankWAW service centre. BankWAW is the registered business name of WAW Credit Union Co-operative Limited. AFSL & Australian Credit Licence: 247298.

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Page 16 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, March 25, 2022

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Ariel motorcycle rally coming to Apex Park THE 2022 Australian Ariel Register rally will be held in Wangaratta from April 1 to 4. More than 60 of the British-built motorcycles are expected to arrive in the rural city on Friday, April 1, and will hold a display open to the public at Apex Park on Saturday, April 2 from 8.30am to 9.30am. That afternoon, they will return from a ride through Wangaratta at about 3pm, for those keen to catch them in action.

Japanese encephalitis at new piggery AGRICULTURE Victoria has detected Japanese encephalitis virus at one new piggery, with positive cases also at facilities in New South Wales, Queensland and South Australia. The detection is the result of national surveillance efforts to identify new cases, and determine the extent and spread of the disease and the source of its introduction. Detections have been confirmed at a total of 15 properties in the Wangaratta, Moira, Greater Shepparton, Campaspe, Gannawarra, Loddon, Greater Bendigo and Northern Grampians local government areas. For more information about Japanese encephalitis virus and human health contact your GP or phone NURSE-ON-CALL on 1300 606 024, or go to www.health.vic. gov.au/jev.

More free TAFE places to help reskill MORE Victorians will have access to the skills they need for the job they want, with funding for an extra 10,000 places across the TAFE and training system for people looking to reskill after the pandemic and move into healthcare and other in–demand jobs. Member for Northern Victoria Jaclyn Symes welcomed the $61.6 million investment which will give more North East residents the opportunity to get new skills for a secure job in their local community and right across Victoria. Jobseekers can choose to study any VET course, including from the State Government‘s signature Free TAFE list, at any TAFE including GOTAFE. Even Victorians who already have another qualification – including a degree – can still access these training places at any TAFE across the state if they’re looking to reskill or change careers after the pandemic. Importantly, the investment will help boost the local pipeline of highly skilled workers for jobs now and into the future, particularly in high–demand industries such as healthcare, hospitality, early childhood education, construction and trades.

TAKE A SEAT: Men’s Table co-ordinator Joel Clapham is excited to bring additional mental health support to his hometown.

PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

Taster session set for Men’s Table next month RURAL city men are being encouraged to come together and share their feelings, as part of the region’s first ever Men’s Table. The initiative, first established in Sydney more than a decade ago, sees up to 12 men come together once a month to enjoy a meal and a drink, while forming lasting friendships and exploring each other’s mental health. An entrée evening is set to take place at Café Martini on April 7, and table organiser and former Wangaratta resident Joel Clapham expects spots will begin to fill up quickly over coming weeks. “I’m enjoying it, it brings me back to Wangaratta and I get to talk to some people about getting together in a trusting environment and talking about their feelings and that’s my jam, I love that,” he said. “What we typically find is over a 12 week lead up period, the last

BY RYAN MALCOLM rmalcolm@ nemedia.com.au

two weeks is when everybody makes that decision - there’s a couple of people who are straight into it, and others give it a bit more thought. “I’m really excited about the thought of getting some ruralbased men together to talk about whatever’s going on.” After joining his own Men’s Table in Melbourne in 2020, Mr Clapham became a regional co-ordinator for the initiative, which is poised to add Wangaratta to a list of 47 Australian Men’s Tables established since 2019. Mr Clapham said the non-clinical nature of the entree evening was the initiative’s biggest drawcard for those who wish to address their mental health. “The sort of people who come

along to a Men’s Table are those who might be noticing an absence of someone just to download to, just to get things off their chest and say what’s going on and how they’re feeling,” he said. “We’re not specialists in terms of clinical support or anything, but what we do offer is some friendly, safe, trusting ears, and no judgment. “We’re about listening to everybody and not jumping in to fix - not hearing what someone’s saying and referring to a brother-in-law who had the same situation and here are the three things he did so you should do them too. “We really strongly discourage that - it’s just about listening - that trust is a bit of an accumulation.” Despite the importance of establishing further mental health supports in regional centres, Mr Clapham said the Men’s Table was also an exciting personal venture,

having grown up in the rural city. “I’m a regional boy by birth, and to step outside of metropolitan Melbourne and come back to the home territory and help people come together and form a group where we can support each other just by listening and being there, that’s pretty awesome,” he said. “I’m completely cognisant of the fact that professional services in regional Australia are significantly harder to access and get in to, there’s a reticence to draw on those as well which I completely understand - I used to be that way myself. “Just helping people to find and build up some rapport with others in the same boat and strengthen the connection over time - it’s a pretty special thing for anyone.” To book tickets, visit https:// events.humanitix.com/the-mens-table-entree-wangaratta-thursday-7-april-2022

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THE CHRONICLE, Friday, March 25, 2022 - Page 17

WHAT’S ON THIS WEEKEND

Milawa Hall market day

BALLOON FESTIVAL: IT will be up, up and way this weekend when the King Valley Balloon Fiesta makes its return to the region. This year the event’s feature is a cute, threetoed sloth called Tico which stands 33 metres tall. Tico will be there to amaze balloon lovers during a mass ascension being held at Brown Brothers Milawa Airfield today through to Sunday from 7am each day and entry for spectators is free. The popular Balloon Glow will be held tomorrow at the Wangaratta Turf Club from 5pm until 8pm where there will be a tethered display of balloons - each balloon crew “glowing” their balloon in sync with the beat of hit music just after sunset. Bring a blanket and enjoy the wide range of food and drinks on offer plus live music and kids’ activities including a balloon magician, drumming, face painting and games, with tickets available at www.kingvalleyballoonfiesta.com. au. There are also daily balloon flights and a Prosecco brunch on Sunday, with more information on the website.

SHOP for locally produced goods and wares at the Milawa Hall market tomorrow from 9am until 12.30pm. There will be a wide range of stalls and the event is a regular fundraiser to help with the upkeep and improvements to the hall.

Literary lunch with Dr Anita Heiss RENOWNED author Dr Anita Heiss will speak about her latest novel called Bila Yarrudhang-galangdhuray (River of Dreams) at the Wangaratta Arts Council’s literary lunch event being held tomorrow. The Literary Lunch will be held at the Quality Hotel Wangaratta Gateway at 11.30am for a 12pm start with tickets available at Edgars Books and News by calling 5721 3758.

Harmony Day celebration tomorrow THE North East Multicultural Association (NEMA) will celebrate Harmony Day during an event being held in the King George V Gardens tomorrow from 12pm until 4pm. At least 12 different cultures are set to be represented at stalls during the free event which aims to embrace cultural differences and break down barriers for new residents. It will begin with a traditional

Australian barbecue, emergency services personnel will be on hand and there will be entertainment for all including a display by Snake Safe Victoria.

Contemporary dance in Scissorhands

Speedway fun this weekend

FREESTYLE Alpine Dance Academy will present an original contemporary dance theatre work called Scissorhands at the Wangaratta Performing Arts and Convention Centre tomorrow at 6pm. Scissorhands draws on the musical versions of Edward Scissorhands to explore the themes of light and dark that exist within every person.

ENJOY a night of racing action with compacts, production sedans, sports sedans and more at the Wangaratta Speedway tomorrow from 5pm until 11pm. All are welcome to the family friendly event with gates open from 2pm.

Involving students from the academy, tickets are available by visiting www.wpacc.com.au.

Tolmie Sports Day tomorrow THE 135th Tolmie Sports Day will be held at the Tolmie Recreation Reserve tomorrow from 10am until 5pm. The fun, family day includes a huge range of traditional events and attractions including foot races, raffles, guessing competitions, handball, a gum boot toss, egg toss and much more.

There will also be equine events, wood chopping, heaps of displays, music and plenty of food and drinks with all welcome.

Chloe Jade at the Plough Inn LOCAL singer songwriter Chloe Jade will perform her honest lyrics and stirring melodies in pop/folk style at the Plough Inn in Tarrawingee on Sunday. The music starts at 1pm and bookings can be made by contacting the hotel.

TER S A E Brown Brothers annual Easter Family Weekend is back, Saturday 16th and Sunday 17th April 2022.

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SAT 16 TH & SUN 17TH APRIL 2022

The Easter Long Weekend wouldn’t be complete without a trip to the King Valley. Brown Brothers annual Easter Family Festival returns over two full days this April, celebrating all things food, wine and family fun. From delicious food stalls and pop-up bars to live music, entertainment and interactive kids activities – there’s something for the whole family. Tickets on sale now for a relaxed, familyfriendly weekend in the King Valley.

Tickets must be pre-purchased. visit brownbrothers.com.au/events

Stay connected on social media

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Page 18 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, March 25, 2022

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Family man, larrikin and legend of harness racing ONE of the driving forces behind the Wangaratta Harness Racing Club, Michael Carey, passed away on Christmas Day. Michael was the much loved husband of Lorraine for 57 years, father of Bernadette, Trish and Mark and grandfather of Laura, Madeleine, Thomas and Freya. When delivering the eulogy for her father, Bernadette Costantino said her Dad lived in Wangaratta for 75 years having two homes - Maxwell Street (where he slept) and Avian Park - Newman Street where he lived, if you needed to find him you just headed there. The contribution he made to the Avian Park complex and the Wangaratta Harness Racing Club cannot be understated, he was recognised as the driving force behind the club and it is unlikely it would have continued today without his commitment and expertise. He was a life member of the harness club, a club committee member for 38 years, on the Avian Park Committee of Management for 26 years,

OBITUARY

Michael Carey January 7, 1939 December 25, 2021 recipient of the Victorian Harness Racing Industry 2010 Volunteer of the Year Award, Wangaratta Turf Club barrier attendant for 50 years, and a respected trainer. Bernadette said he was proud that his family had followed in his footsteps and are actively involved at the club today. “He was born on the 7th of January 1939 to Mary and Edward Carey in Benalla on a 40-degree day, weighing in at 12 pounds. “Dad was one of five children being a loved brother to Bridgett, Francis, Danny and Ellen. “Dad lived in Benalla until around the age of seven when the family moved to Wangaratta where he anchored down and stayed. “Dad met, courted, and then married our wonderful Mum, Lorraine on 22nd May 1965. “Somehow after just 12

months of marriage he managed to squeeze in a trip to America with his dear friend Joe Beatty in 1966. “This was a trip of a lifetime for Dad. But, as we have been told many times over the years, he was not keen on flying so that was the one and only time he got on a plane.

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“So, making it back home safely Dad settled down to a life with my Mum which resulted in the arrival of myself, Trish and Mark. “My father was hardworking and would never take a sickie in either his paid employment, while working for himself or even in his voluntary job at the track.

“Dad’s employment included being a store foreman at Wangaratta Motors, working at Sunicrust Bakeries, being a bread delivery vendor out and around the Whorouly area. “Dad would love nothing more than during school holidays for us three kids to take it in turn to go on the delivery run with him, where we had so much fun driving along singing to Slim Dusty, eating our lollies and sharing a can of coke. “Dad then spent the last 23 years of his paid working life at the WJ Smith Linen Service as a truck driver. “Dad was so happy the day that Mark took a job as a driver there also. “Dad retired in 2006 and became the voluntary track curator/groundsman at Avian Park (probably the job he loved the most). “Dad was strong, loving, and a gentle man. He loved Mum immensely, his three children, and the apple of his eye the four grandchildren being Laura, Madeleine, Tom and Freya. “Dad was no saint by any

means or stretch of the imagination, he had fun and lived his life as he wanted. “The best part of our Dad was his love for everyone and that of all his animals. “His little Jack Russell dogs were such a big part of his life, and they all had such a special bond with him, Toddy is still looking for him right now. “Now, a major part of Dad’s life, his horses. “We remember fondly the road trips taken as a family with the horses, mostly to Albury as kids. “Dad would drive up to Albury and Mum would have the job of driving home, because Dad being the socialite he was, meant we were always the last to leave no matter what the outcome of the night. “Dad would yap the leg off a chair, so we never got home before midnight. “Dad loved life and loved all of us, so let us do what he would have wanted and wipe away our tears and put a smile on our face when we remember Michael Patrick Carey our hero.”

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THE CHRONICLE, Friday, March 25, 2022 - Page 19

NORTH EAST NATURALLY

The Grey-crowned Babbler - rare bird of our woodland remnants

By IAN DAVIDSON & CHRIS TZAROS

THOUGH birds temporarily occur in groups or flocks at certain times of the year, for example when on migration or outside their breeding season, some species choose to live in permanent family groups right throughout the year. Babblers - small to medium sized woodland birds - are among the most highly social of our birds, living and breeding in communal groups of up to a dozen or so. With Grey-crowned Babblers - the larger of the two species found in this region, their family group size is determined by habitat quality and extent, with larger groups occurring in the best areas and small groups or even pairs at the lowest quality sites. Sadly, as is the case with many woodland birds, Grey-crowned Babblers have declined significantly throughout much of their range, especially in southeastern Australia. Their preferred open woodland habitats, such as box eucalypt woodlands, have been substantially cleared for pastoral development over the past couple of

hundred years, and babbler populations are now restricted to areas of remnant vegetation in a farming dominated landscape. Within a family group of Grey-crowned Babblers, there is an adult breeding pair which mate for life and are usually the only breeding birds within the group. The other group members, which are offspring of the main pair, remain as helpers to build nests, feed new young birds and maintain territories. However, once a group reaches a size of more than 12-13 birds, some youngsters choose to leave the family group in search of another colony or to establish their own pair bond elsewhere. This emigration is important as it assists the genetic spread of the species through their range. Native vegetation is critical in the sense that babblers cannot cross large open expanses and they need connected strips of trees, such as roadside vegetation and creek lines, to assist their movement through the

BIRDS OF A FEATHER: A happy family of Greycrowned Babblers - adults identified by their pale eye and youngsters with their dark eye. PHOTO: Chris Tzaros (Birds Bush and Beyond) landscape, thus helping to spread the gene pool. In some districts where active revegetation programs, such as those through Landcare groups, have increased the amount and

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connectivity of woodland remnants, babbler populations locally have been maintained or even increased, whereas in heavy cropping or irrigation areas where there is no habitat increase, babblers

continue to disappear and have become locally and even regionally extinct. Throughout the year, Grey-crowned Babblers build distinctive football-sized nests made of twigs and lined with

grasses and feathers, built in saplings and in lower foliage of large spreading trees. The nests are dome-shaped with a side facing entrance. Even when not breeding, birds use these nests as dormitories to roost at night, with the entire family group squeezing cosily into the one nest. Slightly larger nests are built in spring as breeding sites. Primarily insectivorous, babblers typically forage on the ground and among leaf-litter, logs and fallen branches, occasionally using lower parts of tree trunks. Their long thin downcurved beaks help them to extract bugs and spiders from cracks and crevices and from under bark. In the North East, Greycrowned Babblers have now gone from many areas of their former range and only small populations exist around places such as Lurg-Winton, Killawarra and BoorhamanRutherglen. The best way to find them is to look for their obvious nests or listen for their distinctive ‘ya-hoo’ calls - an antiphonal call where the female emits the ‘ya’ followed by the males ‘hoo’.

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Business recovery begins with trusted advice The Business Recovery Advisory Service is available to any business in East Gippsland, Wellington and North East Victoria experiencing hardship, recovering from disasters and needing special assistance. Our qualified local advisers provide advice relevant to your situation on important business practices: r business resilience strategies r cash ﬂow management r digital marketing r driving sustainable growth r referrals to other agencies to access grants and services Book an appointment now. business.vic.gov.au/recovery-advice 13 22 15 Authorised by the Victorian Government, 1 Treasury Place, Melbourne

Page 20 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, March 25, 2022

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New strategy seeks to help local councils, Aboriginals NATUROPATHIC SUPPORT FOR BODY CHANGES POST BABIES Energy and nutritional support Low iron Identify nutrient deficiencies during breastfeeding Reflux and bowel changes post babies that impact on nutrient absorption General Fatigue and baby brain Energy for going back to work post babies Immune support (thrush and recurrent infections) Whole family diet plans Nervous system and mental health support PMS support Post partum mood changes Coping with demands of breastfeeding/toddlers Stress and anxiety support Period changes PMS support for mood and pain symptoms Herbal medicines to control heavy periods Determine cause of your heavier periods Reestablish cycles for next pregnancy Resetablish cycles post miscarriage Body image and weight support Identify triggers and

STAR OF THE SHOW: Famed Italian-Australian comedian Joe Avati is set to entertain crowds at the Da Vinci Social Club next week. PHOTO: Joe Avati

Comedian will launch Da Vinci rebound event

FAMED Italian-Australian comedian Joe Avati is set to bring his unique brand of bilingual laughs to the rural city next week, as the Da Vinci Social Club looks to rebound from a difficult COVID period. Born in Australia as part of the nation’s strong Italian community, Mr Avati’s family friendly material toes the line, avoiding profanities and offensive gags as he focuses on inherently relatable comedy. Touching on universal themes such as generational differences, a love of food, and the immigrant experience, and performed in a mixture of English and Italian, Mr Avati bridges language,

nationalities and ethnicities through his unique comedy style. Da Vinci Social Club secretary Pip Else said the club was looking forward to kick-starting their rebound from the pandemic. “Da Vinci Social Club committee is delighted to reopen with a wide range of entertainment catering to everyone’s tastes - It has been a long two years during the COVID-19 pandemic,” she said. “We are excited to host an evening with Joe Avati.” Mr Avati is set to be ably supported by 25 year veteran Australian-Italian actor, performer, MC, comedian and presenter James

Liotta, while the night will also feature a silent auction. Italian street food such as arancini, crespelle, crostoli and cannoli will also be available at the April 2 event. Tickets can be pre-purchased by visiting https://www.eventbrite.com. au/e/an-evening-with-joe-avati-liveat-da-vinci-tickets-144555895575, or by contacting Ms Else on 0409 307 606 or dvsc.wang@gmail.com. Members tickets cost $70, while non-members cost $75. No door tickets will be available for the event, which kicks off at 8pm at the Da Vinci Social Club, Laceby.

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THE State Government is prioritising relationships with First Nations Victorians with a new guide for Victorian councils when engaging with Aboriginal communities. Minister for Local Governmen, Shaun Leane, and Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, Gabrielle Williams, this week released the Victorian Aboriginal and Local Government Strategy (VALGS) 2021–2026, building on the Victorian Aboriginal and Local Government Action Plan from 2016. The strategy, developed following a thorough consultation process over 20 months with Traditional Owner groups and Aboriginal organisations, provides practical advice for councils when developing reconciliation action plans. Elected Aboriginal local government representatives and Aboriginal staff employed within the local government sector also contributed to the strategy. The VALGS recognise the key role local government plays in supporting and implementing Victoria‘s ground breaking reforms as established in the Victorian Aboriginal Affairs Framework 2018–2023. The strategy emphasises the need for a collaborative partnership approach across government and Aboriginal communities. To read the strategy visit localgovernment.vic.gov.au. To find out more about the State Government’s commitment to First Peoples’ cultural rights, self– determination, treaty and truth, visit firstpeoplesrelations.vic.gov.au.

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"Experience and Reputation"

ABOUT 150 people attended a presentation by Formula One aerodynamicist Willem Toet at the Winton Motor Raceway corporate centre on Saturday night. Attendees travelled from Sydney, Gippsland, Melbourne, Victoria’s Western District and several other locations to attend the free event, with a number of engineering students from RMIT, local secondary school students, race car drivers, engineers, teachers and doctors among them. Such was the level of interest in the presentation, ‘F1 Aerodynamics to 2021 and the Future’, that online attention was drawn during its promotion from Japan, Pakistan, India, Germany, France, Spain and the UK. Organiser Phil Memery secured a car for display as part of the event from Rick Campbell in Melbourne who, along with Matt Winlaw, brought along the Praga R1 LMP sports car. This fitted the theme of the presentation, as the race car is designed with a strong focus on aerodynamics. “You know you’re onto something special when you have an international Professor of Motorsport Engineering and former head of aerodynamics for the F1 teams at Ferrari, Sauber, Benetton and BAR Honda extolling the virtues of the race car you’ve aligned yourself with,” Mr Campbell said.

wangarattachronicle.com.au

THE CHRONICLE, Friday, March 25, 2022 - Page 21

REGIONAL NEWS

Fire victims touched by public generosity By JEFF ZEUSCHNER A MYRTLEFORD couple who lost almost everything in a fire last week, have been “overwhelmed” by the community support they have received in the wake of the tragedy. Matteo Bonacci, 29, and fiancee Tia Stone, 26, were left with only the clothes they were wearing and their two dogs, after a fire destroyed their home in Clemens Lane last Monday, March 14. Mr Bonacci said he was out in the yard when he heard the smoke alarm and saw smoke and fire coming from their caravan and permanent annex/shed. “I grabbed two small fire extinguishers and tried to put the fire out but couldn’t stop it, and then grabbed another extinguisher from the car, but that still didn’t make a difference,” he said. A CFA spokesperson said they were notified of reports of the fire at 10.11am, with four trucks and volunteer firefighters responding, supported by police. “Upon arrival the crews found the caravan, car and shed fully involved,” the

LEFT WITH NOTHING: Fire destroyed a caravan and shed, leaving Myrtleford couple Matteo Bonacci and Tia Stone with just their dogs, and the clothes on their back. PHOTO: Tia Stone spokesperson said. “The incident was declared under control at 10.51 am with crews left cleaning up the area for some time after.” Myrtleford police said that the incident is not suspicious and they will not be investigating further. “We pretty much lost everything in the fire,” Mr Bonacci said.

“All our personal belongings, as well as all the stuff getting ready for our wedding in two months.” Family members set up a GoFundMe page to share the young couple’s unfortunate plight, which has drawn a strong response from the wider community, so far raising over $4000. “We didn’t know they were going to do it...we

wouldn’t have done it ourselves, but we’re overwhelmed by the response,” Mr Bonacci said. “It’s just been incredible...the support we’ve received. “We’ve had donations of clothes, toiletries and many other items...I’ve probably got more clothes now than I’ve ever had. “We’re just so thank-

ful to everyone. “The financial support will help us proceed with our wedding. “It’s a big help as we try and get back on our feet.” The couple are residing with family members as they seek to slowly rebuild from the tragedy. Anyone wanting to donate can go to https://gofund.me/5a71b321.

Damp conditions help bring an end to fire season across Alpine Shire By LEAH ANDERSON-BYRNE THE Fire Danger Period officially came to an end throughout the Alpine Shire and at Falls Creek and Mt Hotham alpine resorts on Monday, with damp conditions expected to continue through autumn. CFA Ovens Valley Group leader Michael Freudenstein said it was a quick decision though not an unexpected date. “We had been thinking March 21 or 28 but figured an extra seven days wasn’t going to make a big difference,” he said. “The cooler conditions and additional rainfall we’ve had helped our decision, plus it’s fairly green around the Alpine region. “Underneath the grass is still dried out a little so there’s still a danger but we figured if people are careful with burn offs, are aware that fire can still happen and register their burns we’ll be fine. “Please also notify your neighbours, don’t leave the burn unattended and monitor weather conditions.” To register burns, go to https://www.cfa.vic.gov.au/ contact/register-your-burn-off.

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REGIONAL NEWS

Bright’s big autumn art show turns 60 this year BRIGHT’S popular Autumn Art Exhibition will be celebrating its 60th birthday next month and, according to Bright Art Gallery’s president Steve McCall, it will be something special. “Apart from the usual quality paintings and drawings, we hope to have a display featuring articles and photos from some of the very early shows,” Mr McCall said. “Depending on space available, we will also try to feature some earlier prize-winning paintings. “Our guest speaker on opening night will be Jim Delany QC, the grandson of Annie Delany who did so much work in the early days of the exhibition and in establishing the original gallery.” Mr McCall said the exhibition has attracted around 520 entries from across Victoria, NSW, the ACT and Queensland. He also said that the gallery would welcome any material from local residents that may be suitable for the historical display. The first Autumn Art Exhibition, in 1962, was held in a local hall and soon became an established and popular event. Legend has it that entry queues extended down the street and on some occasions

PLENTY TO SEE: Bright Art Gallery volunteers Alex Ruffin and AnneMarie Wiegerinck have been helping unpack and hang some of the 520 entries received for the exhibition. PHOTO: Jenny Zamperoni

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The artists’ names have changed over time, as have the various categories of prizes, but the quality remains. Opening night celebrations will be held on Friday, April 1 at 7pm when winners will be announced, and finger food and a glass of wine will be provided. Tickets are $25 per head. Please RSVP on 0429 127 444 or email manager@brightartgallery.org.au. The art show will then open daily, 8am to 4pm, until May 8 with a $5 adult entry fee.

visitors each year, contributing much to the economy of the Alpine Shire. The success of the early shows led to an art gallery being established in Bright. With additions and improvements over the years, the gallery has grown into a modern and comfortable amenity which is used for a variety of cultural and artistic purposes. Many well-known artists support the exhibition by entering works in a variety of styles and subjects.

the competition to purchase a particular painting almost resulted in fisticuffs. Winner of that first competition was none other than Norma Bull, whose work featured in a recent exhibition at the gallery. The prize in those days was 100 pounds. Today the grand winner receives $5000. At nearly 60 years old, the Autumn Art Show is one of the oldest community art shows in Australia. It attracts large numbers of

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Page 22 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, March 25, 2022

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THE CHRONICLE, Friday, March 25, 2022 - Page 23

REGIONAL NEWS

Hospital op shop donates $87,000

By MARTIN DAVIS

CHECKING YOUR GUT: Tanya Hart with the brand new gastroscope system that was purchased thanks to Bright Hospital Op Shop. PHOTO: Alpine Health

BRIGHT Hospital Op Shop has donated $87,000 for gastroscope equipment to support procedural services at Bright Hospital. The op shop has, like many businesses over the past two years, had its challenges keeping the doors open to the public, but despite this it has still managed to raise necessary funds for Alpine Health. The gastroscope is a thin,

flexible telescope, about as thick as a little finger. The endoscope is passed through the mouth, into the oesophagus and down towards the stomach and duodenum with the tip of the device containing a light and a camera. The new gastroscope and processing equipment will allow Alpine Health to meet national standards and improve patient experiences within their facilities. Alpine Health chief execu-

tive officer Nick Shaw said they are incredibly fortunate to have the support of the Bright Hospital Op Shop to assist them in meeting national standards and improving patient experiences within their facilities. “The gastroscope and processing equipment will support the procedural services we can offer at Bright Hospital,” he said. Bright Health services manager, Sarah Fagan, said on behalf of Alpine Health

she would like to thank the Bright Hospital Op Shop committee members and volunteers who generously donate their time to help Alpine Health improve their services and patients’ experiences within their hospitals. The expansion of procedural services across Alpine Health forms part of the 20212022 Alpine Health Corporate Plan which is available on the Alpine Health website - alpinehealth.org.au/aboutus/ publications.

Myrtleford Hospital Op Shop donates funds for Barwidgee Lodge By MARTIN DAVIS MYRTLEFORD Hospital Op Shop has donated more than $35,000 to help with refurbishments and new equipment at Barwidgee Lodge. Funds were donated back in October 2021 for the Myrtleford aged care facility. A donation of $12,000 was used to purchase artworks that were chosen by an interior designer who specialises in aged care.

Another $12,000 donation will be used to complete a memory mural in the Barwidgee Lodge garden which will be designed by the Myrtleford Crackpots. The mural will be used to assist people with dementia continue to spark different memories about their life. Alpine Health chief executive officer Nick Shaw said he is very appreciative of the support the Myrtleford Op Shop provides.

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Page 24 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, March 25, 2022

wangarattachronicle.com.au

REGIONAL NEWS

Learn about nature based solutions at Bright field day By DENNIS LAMBERT, Sustainable Upper Ovens deputy chair CAN nature help us fight climate change and reduce our carbon footprint, and what can we do to assist? Come along to the Carbon Action Plan Field Day in Bright tomorrow (Saturday, March 26) to hear about the vital role that nature plays in all aspects of our lives and how we can help preserve it. Peter Jacobs, president of the Upper Ovens Valley Landcare, said the group is very pleased to be presenting at the field day alongside Zoos Victoria, Parks Victoria, the local Alpine Shire, and the Bright Community Garden in talking about how the community can help by being an active part of the action plan and restoring biodiversity. You will hear about the landscape in which we live, including the Alpine National Parks and how they can help us build climate resilience. Of course, these areas also provide a wonderful environment right on our doorstep in which to relax, rejuvenate and enjoy nature. Mr Jacobs will talk about local

projects such as tree planting to improve the survival of Indigenous plants and animals by re-connecting areas of riparian bushland along the Ovens River. What role do the grasslands on Mt Buffalo play in rain water retention and filtration? Will they recover from the 2019 bushfires? How can you join in and help in these kinds of projects? Zoos Victoria will share ideas on how we can re-think our actions in our gardens, about pet care, road travel and the consequences for both pets and wildlife, and of the development of ‘citizen science’ to protect and understand our local wildlife. Please join us this Saturday in Bright at the Community Centre, 1 Railway Parade, from 9am to 3.30pm to learn more about protecting nature as we try to both manage current climate change catastrophes and also, ensure our flora and fauna will exist for future generations to enjoy. The field day is a free event and there will be a free barbecue to enjoy (bring your own keep cup).

HELPING OUT: Volunteers planting trees to reconnect riparian bushland along the Ovens River.

Bringing past to the present A VIRTUAL tour website has been launched at the Mayday Hills Art Society premises for the former Mayday Hills Mental Asylum and Beechworth Cemetery. A small research team of three headed by Charles Sturt University’s (CSU) Associate Professor Jennifer Munday over five years interviewed former staff, patients, families, and Beechworth residents for stories. Professor Munday said together with CSU Ajdunct Professor Eileen Clark and Dr Alison Watts from South-

Virtual tour for Mental Asylum, Beechworth Cemetery BY CORAL COOKSLEY ccooksley@ nemedia.com.au

ern Cross University in Lismore, the three had worked on the project since 2016. The collaborative project with funding from Telematics Trust helped Charles Sturt University in using technology and creating web content from participants in the research. The website takes viewers

around both sites with drone footage and virtual tours of the asylum and Beechworth Cemetery buildings. Viewers can tap into the website with artefacts and stories from staff, patients, families, and Beechworth residents. Professor Munday said the historically significant project had given the asylum a sense of place in Victoria’s history and its meaning for the community.

“People are really interested to find out about people who lived and worked at the asylum and there are so many connections,” she said. “It’s not a finished project as we intend to keep visiting more artefacts and narratives.” Professor Munday said a QR code on the plaque of soldiers’ graves in the Beechworth Cemetery will tell their story as well.

“As Beechworth is an historic town, people wishing to visit can get a taste of history before they arrive,” she said. Professor Munday said there will be links between the virtual and physical sites and the future. Indi MP Helen Haines, who launched the website, said important stories had been told about staff and patients as well as the visual exploration of Mayday Hills and the

Beechworth Cemetery. As an example, Dr Haines cited WW1 soldiers who had been patients at the asylum and buried in the cemetery with their war trauma not understood. Researcher Professor Eileen Clark said having a website to ensure graves are marked for people who served their country brought important work out into the public too. Indigo Shire mayor Bernard Gaffney said the project will be a boon for tourism in Beechworth and the shire.

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THE CHRONICLE, Friday, March 25, 2022 - Page 25

R E S U LT S

Fantastic weather caps off successful event By BELINDA HARRISON MORE than 700 entrants and their families descended on the Rural City on the weekend for Sunday’s Wangaratta Chronicle Marathon and Fun Run presented by Garry Nash & Co. Real Estate. North East Media CEO Edward Higgins was on hand to present winners with their trophies and prizes and said it was great to see so many locals taking part, along with state wide and interstate competitors. “It was fantastic that we could all come together as a community after we had to cancel last year’s event due to COVID restrictions. “I would like to congratulate all participants and thank our event partner Garry Nash & Co. Real Estate who has been the major sponsor since the event’s inception. “I would also like to thank our event name sponsors RJ Sanderson, Wangaratta Motor Group, Wangaratta Engineering

and Wangaratta Remedial Massage, prize sponsors Merriwa Industries, Brown Brothers and Athlete’s Foot, charity partner Wangaratta Lions Club, support partner Alpine Timing, Wangaratta Trophy and Engravers, Moo’s Brew, Nu Fruit, 1st Yarrunga Scout Group, BUGs and Wangaratta Kennel and Obedience Dog Club. Event manager Karen Mayhew said that they couldn’t have asked for better weather on Sunday. “It was a little cool first thing, but once the sun came up it was a perfect day. “Everyone was excited to be out and about and the encouragement for the runners in all events from supporters and volunteers was phenomenal and helped give that little bit extra to cross the finish line.” The 2023 event will be held on Sunday March 19 with call out for volunteers, sponsors and registration information to be  DOING IT TOGETHER: Four year old Jack Routledge of Wangaratta provided later in 2022. completed the 2km event with his Dad Matt. PHOTO: Jeff Zeuschner

 FOCUSED: Madelyn Benton represented Cathedral College Wangaratta in the 2km Primary School Challenge, helping her school win the $1000 prize and trophy. PHOTO: Nick Richards

Close finish for Primary School Challenge  CHAMPIONS: Part of the Cathedral College 2km Primary School team who helped win $1000 for their school and the perpetual trophy. Pictured at top: Lachlan Walker, Natalie Walker, Abigail Greaves, Kiana Lane and Emma Wyatt. Middle: Spencer Cole, Zoe Riordan, Esmari Claassens, Brianna Robison and Bonnie Murphy. Front: Madelyn Benton, Ella Murphy, Jimmy Radeski, Gus Radeski, Harvey Wyatt, Lacey Murphy, Elise Walker, Emmy Brettig, Hamish Cole, Edward Routledge, Hayden Ledger, Bree Ledger and Beau Letica. PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

Thank you to our sponsors:

By BELINDA HARRISON

 PROUD: Justin Timms (far left) and Cath James (far right) from event sponsor RJ Sanderson proudly presented the trophy and novelty cheque to Cathedral College principal Nick Jones, Spencer Cole, Emma Wyatt and head of junior school Greg Newbold on Wednesday. PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

CATHEDRAL College won the 2km Primary School Challenge, beating Wangaratta West Primary School by the barest of margins. The College was presented with their perpetual trophy on Wednesday by Justin Timms and Cath James from event sponsor RJ Sanderson & Associates Pty Ltd. “RJ Sanderson & Associates Pty Ltd would like to congratulate Cathedral College Wangaratta on their success in the 2022 Primary School Challenge,” Justin said. “It was great to see the children participating and the smiles as they crossed the finish line and collected their medals. “Thank you to everyone who made the event a success.” School principal Nick Jones said that emphasising the importance of a healthy lifestyle is a focus at Cathedral College. “We are thrilled that our students won the 2km Primary School Challenge this year,” Mr Jones said. “It is wonderful that our students could represent Cathedral whilst having fun exercising with their friends and fellow students. “We gratefully receive the cheque for $1,000 and will proudly display the trophy for the next 12 months. “We would like to thank the sponsors and the Chronicle for organising and supporting the event and plan to purchase sporting equipment for our students to enjoy.”

Page 26 - THE CHRONICLE, Friday, March 25, 2022

wangarattachronicle.com.au

R E S U LT S Under 40 Male Marathon

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