Historic win for Wallan basketball

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October 17, 2023

Wallan Panthers men kicked off its Country Basketball League, CBL, season in style, with back-to-back wins defeating Seymour Blasters and Shepparton Gators.

In a rare seven-point win, Wallan’s men defeated the Blasters at Seymour’s home court.

Seymour took an early lead Saturday night, ending the first quarter up by three points before heading into halftime up by four.

The Panthers took the lead in the third quarter leaving Seymour to chase them down, unsuccessfully, in the final quarter taking the win 73 to 66.

Wallan coach Scott Baillie said he was nervous before his senior coaching debut.

“I tried to show no fear on my face going into it to show the guys there was nothing to worry about and I trusted them,” he said.

“They seemed quite hyped going into it, which was good, and they believed they’d be able to walk away with the win.

“It was definitely a bit of a pat on the back for me and hats off to the boys for training as hard as what they have been – to be able to then put it out on the court was really great.”

Baillie said club members even approached him following the win to mention it might’ve been a historic victory, as Wallan, to their knowledge, had not defeated the powerhouse Seymour side on their home court before.

Wallan’s Ryan Philippe goes for the basket.

Ethan Bateman left Luke Liesegang — Wallan’s Ryan Philippe goes for the basket.

Wallan point guard Ryan Phillipe was lead scorer followed by Seymour’s Ethan Bateman and Eden Hobbs with 17 and 15 points respectively.

On Sunday, the Panthers treated fans to a home court 41-point win over Shepparton Gators.

Wallan led 29 to four before extending its lead heading into halftime to be up by 40 points.

Despite a third quarter surge and the Gators coming to within 28 points, the Panthers pushed back in the final quarter, winning 96 to 55.

“We wanted to get the jump on the game. We wanted to make sure they had plenty of energy and set the tempo from the start,” Baillie said.

“We changed up the starting lineup from the night before to see how a couple of players would be able to handle that little bit more pressure going into the starting five.”

Phillipe again led the scoring with 18 while Wallan big man Luke Liesegang added 17 points.

“Luke started the game really well and I think his leadership on the court for that game especially stood out,” Baillie said.

Young players Orlando Andersen-Wells, Jacob Skora and Owen Smith also had the chance to hit the court much to the delight of the crowd, which had nearly two full under 16 Wallan sides supporting their teammates who are development players in the senior side.

“Just the chanting, the noise and everything that came from that is honestly what you want in a home crowd,” Baillie said.

“They were chanting to get the younger guys on … for them to finish out the game on the court was great and they took the game in their stride.”

Wallan is home to Benalla on Saturday, while Seymour has a double-header playing Shepparton on Saturday and Wangaratta on Sunday.

Wallan’s historic win: BASKETBALL GALLERY

Women

Seymour Blasters had a 42-point win over the young Wallan Panthers to kick of their CBL season.

The Blasters led throughout and despite Wallan outscoring them in the third quarter, won 89 to 47.

Seymour’s Maddison Ford was leading scorer with 17 points followed by Wallan’s Melissa Buckley with 14.

Madison Ford left Paige Schultz — Madison Ford drives past Paige Schultz.

Tahlia Onley — Madison Ford drives past Paige Schultz.

Wallan then lost to Shepparton Gators 63 to 72 on Sunday.

In a close first half, Wallan led by one point heading into halftime before Shepparton took the lead in the second.

Wallan’s Olivia Woods was leading scorer with 19 and Melissa Buckley had another 14-point game.

This Saturday, both teams play away with Wallan at Wodonga and Seymour travelling to Shepparton.

Ruby Pantisano shoots an open layup for the Blasters.

Learning game for Kilmore cricketers

Max Davies

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October 17, 2023

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By Max Davies

Kilmore is yet to find a win in its Gisborne District Cricket Association’s Johnstone Shield Firsts season but is showing signs of improvement following the first two rounds.

Playing at home on the weekend, Kilmore was tasked with chasing down Aintree’s 10/174 off 35.4 overs but came up short to record 9/121 over 40 overs despite a strong late batting partnership between Brett Buttler and Josh Squire.

The pair were Kilmore’s top scorers – Buttler on 31 not out and Squire on 19 not out.

Coach and captain Jacob Walton said the game had promising signs despite multiple missed opportunities during Aintree’s innings.

“Buttler and Squire batted really well together and got us up to 120 at the close of our innings, which showed a little bit of fight in the tail which is really good,” he said.

“If you look through the rest of our bowling scorecard, if we take one of those earlier catches we probably skittle them for 100 rather than letting them get 170.”

Kilmore’s efforts to chase down the target set by Aintree got off to a slow start as openers Kevin Craddock and Cameron Bryant only scored five runs.

Craddock was bowled out early into the third over, while Kyle McNicholas was sent out for a first-ball duck.

Bryant was caught out in the fourth over before a partnership between Andrew Smith and Marcus Davern stabilised Kilmore’s innings with a 19-run total ahead of the late Buttler-Squire effort.

Squire drew Walton’s praise, who said the match was ‘really impressive’ for one of the team’s most important players.

“For a kid that’s only 20, he bowled for eight overs straight and bowled really well. He didn’t get a wicket but held down one end while [Aintree] were really looking to score through that big partnership,” Walton said.

“He came out and batted for probably the best part of 20 overs and was just really impressive.”

Andrew Smith 4 — Andrew Smith smashes a four.

Kilmore will now gear up to face old rivals and Gisborne District newcomers Broadford, who scored a 3/157 to 9/156 victory over Eynesbury on Saturday.

“We’re feeling pretty good, we haven’t had the results we wanted the first couple of weeks, but we’re only going to keep getting stronger as the year goes on,” Walton said.

“We’ve got a couple more guys coming back into the side this week, so we’ll see how we go against the old rivals. They’re going to be tough to beat, I think this year they’ve got some pretty good depth … it’s just good to see them all back and loving cricket again.”

In Johnstone Shield Seconds action, Kilmore was defeated by Aintree in a comprehensive 10/156 to 8/235 result.

Broadford, however, took out a second win at the weekend over Eynesbury, while Wallan lost to Rupertswood at home 10/91 to 5/92.

Kilmore cricket action: FULL GALLERY

McIntyre Cup

Romsey took home another victory at the weekend as it outperformed Woodend, making it two wins for the season for both its firsts and seconds teams.

Playing at Woodend, Romsey elected to bat first and scored 8/200 off 45 overs, leaving the home side with what proved to be too much of a total, finishing 10/175 off 45 overs.

Romsey captain Ben Way led the way for Romsey with an unbeaten 56 runs, while Corey Day impressed with his bowling to take three wickets.

Matthew Milne and Aaron Paterson also put on strong batting performances, scoring 37 and 39 runs respectively.

Romsey will face Rupertswood this weekend.

Council attempt to solve queuing at Hume exit toward Wallan

Jordyn Grubisic

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October 17, 2023

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Council attempt to solve queuing at Hume exit toward Wallan

Mitchell Shire Council will attempt to provide a solution to queuing on the Northern Highway when exiting the Hume Freeway northbound at Wallan, asking relevant authorities to place signs at the beginning of the short second exit lane.

Queuing during peak hour in the afternoons has long frustrated drivers, with many expressing annoyances on Facebook community pages.

But council say the Department of Transport and Planning, DTP, responsible for the road, rarely supports non-standard signage and council is unaware of a similar type implementation across Victoria.

In a notice of motion at the October council meeting, Cr Nathan Clark said the second lane allowed for a surplus of vehicles at peak times but not all drivers were aware of how it could improve safety and traffic flow.

“This confusion has recently generated unacceptable incidents of road rage from members of the community,” he said.

“Some people even block the lane to prevent the sensible extra storage of vehicles, which is dangerous and puts people at unnecessary risk.

“A sign indicating use both lanes may assist in mitigating this problem.”

Cr Clark said other actions should be taken to address the issue.

“I think there’s plenty that should be done about it. A lot of north-south connecting roads inside the growth corridor are required,” he said.

“The Watson Street interchange is also something that would alleviate this problem and these are works that have been well planned for – well catered for – we just need the state and federal governments to work together and execute this.

“I wouldn’t recommend people use the second lane to hoon pass people that are doing the proper speed, I know that causes some problems in the community.

“I’d just like to see people being a bit sensible when they have that opportunity to use that second lane.”

Cr Rob Eldridge said he witnessed dangerous driving on the exit.

“You see both – the hoons flying past you at 120 kilometres an hour to try and get three cars ahead of you, and you see people blocking the whole second lane, forcing people back onto the Hume – it is only a matter of time before we have a major problem there,” he said.

“I’m not sure what form it would take but I think any sign is going to rely on common sense, and I’m sure some of that is lacking when people get behind the wheel, so I look forward to the outcome of the signage.”

Cr David Lowe said the traffic was a ‘really tricky problem’ to which he didn’t know the solution to.

“The road rage that Cr Eldridge referred to is very real – it does happen to people – but I also understand Cr Clark’s point that this is a legacy,” he said.

“I don’t think when they built that second exit lane 35 years ago they didn’t foresee not duplicating the Northern Highway into Wallan for 35 years because that’s what it’s all about.

“It’s all about the fact that this is a second lane to feed into the south of Wallan.

“It does cause problems and it does irritate a lot of people when hoons go flying up the outside and then push in.

“I don’t know the solution to this. I applaud Cr Clark putting this forward as a possible solution and we will see what the state or federal authorities decide to do about this particular road exit.”

Cr Bob Cornish suggested alternative ways to fix the congestion including slowing cars down to 80 kilometres before entering that stretch of road or installing a third lane.

All councillors except Cr Lowe voted for the motion.

Beveridge man charged for driving offences

Max Davies

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October 17, 2023

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Beveridge man charged for driving offences

A Beveridge man was charged after he allegedly evaded police before being followed through Melbourne’s north-western suburbs on Friday morning.

Officers found the car, with allegedly stolen plates, driving on Sydney Road in Fawkner at about 1.30am, and attempted to intercept the vehicle, but it failed to stop and took off at speed.

With assistance from the police air wing, police followed the car to Serpens Court in Roxburgh Park, where the vehicle was dumped.

The 26-year-old man was arrested nearby, and was charged with theft of a motor vehicle, fail to appear on bail and various driving offences.

He was bailed to appear at Broadmeadows Magistrates’ Court at a later date.

Preparations underway for Broadford’s Freedom of Entry parade

Max Davies

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October 17, 2023

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Preparations underway for Broadford’s Freedom of Entry parade

Members of Broadford’s Returned Services League, RSL, branch are getting ready to fire up the barbecue for the upcoming Freedom of Entry Parade in Broadford on Sunday, October 29.

The gas bottle is full, the aprons are out, and the tongs are ready for the event that will mark the 82nd anniversary of the School of Armour’s establishment in Mitchell Shire.

The parade will see up to 20 armoured vehicles and soldiers moving along High Street towards Memorial Park where there will be an official service, followed by a tank display, a chance to meet the soldiers and a community day including a sausage sizzle.

For Broadford RSL members, the event is more than just a chance to demonstrate their snag sizzling skills.

President James Evans said Broadford RSL had very strong ties to the defence community at Puckapunyal.

“A majority of our members have either served with or alongside the Royal Australian Armoured Corps and those from the School of Armour,” he said.

“Supporting this event allows us to further strengthen those links with our serving members and the community of Broadford.”

Mr Evans encouraged community members to attend and said the chance to speak with those who served in a local unit was one which should not be missed.

“The parade sends a message of unity and gratitude. Many of these soldiers live locally and the ability to share something as historically significant as this with the Broadford community is truly special,” he said.

“Events like these can be once in a lifetime. Some of our members still reminisce on the fond memories of previous Freedom of Entry parades that they were involved with.”

School of Armour commanding officer Lieutenant Colonel Benjamin Shepherd said local RSLs’ connection to events like the Freedom of Entry Parade was vital.

“The camaraderie forged in the military doesn’t fade with retirement or transition from the Australian Defence Force,” he said.

“Events like these reunite us, reminding us of the values that bind us together.

“The Broadford RSL’s involvement speaks volumes, reminding us all that the military family is forever, and their wisdom is an invaluable asset to our community.”

Mitchell Shire Mayor Fiona Stevens said it was important to have the RSL involved in the parade because a significant number of their membership proudly served in various armoured corps, and their connection remains strong.

The Freedom of Entry Parade is on from 10am to 2pm on October 29.

High Street will be closed to traffic from about 9am, with signed detours in place.

People planning to visit the event are encouraged to leave plenty of time for parking. Other traffic is advised to avoid Broadford and travel via Seymour, Tooborac, Kilmore and Wandong.

There will also be no heavy vehicle access from 9am to 2pm.

For more information including a map of the parade and detours, visit mitchellshire.vic.gov.au/parade or call 5734 6200.

Wallan’s historic win: BASKETBALL GALLERY

Max Davies

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October 17, 2023

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Wallan’s historic win: BASKETBALL GALLERY

Wallan Panthers men kicked off its Country Basketball League, CBL, season in style, with back-to-back wins defeating Seymour Blasters and Shepparton Gators.

Read the full report here.

Photos by Max Davies.

Wallan’s Brody Thrum drives to the basket.

Harry Stones left Dion Stacey — Seymour’s Harry Stones looks for an attacking pass.

Women

Seymour Blasters had a 42-point win over the young Wallan Panthers to kick of their CBL season.

Read the full report here.

Rachel Arnold left Dakota Lister edited scaled — Wallan’s Dakota Lister leads Rachel Arnold.

Paige Schultz left Aleisha Watson edited scaled

Calls to nominate a Mitchell Shire community champion

Max Davies

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October 17, 2023

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Calls to nominate a Mitchell Shire community champion

Do you know someone who deserves recognition for their community contributions or want to celebrate achievements from some of our local groups and organisations?

Mitchell Shire Council’s Community Awards committee is now calling for nominations ahead of the 2024 Community Awards and Citizenship Ceremony, which will be hosted by Wallan Neighbourhood House on Australia Day.

Some categories have been added to this year’s awards to encourage a wider range of nominations – Sports Person of the Year and Arts and/or Culture Person of the Year.

Anyone in the community can nominate an individual or group they believe deserve recognition for service to the community and fellow community members.

When making a submission, information included should relate to how the individual or a group fits the selection criteria, their dedication or service, achievements and demonstrated excellence.

Mitchell Shire Mayor Fiona Stevens said a major reason for the shire being a great place to live was the selfless dedication of countless volunteers within the community.

“However, our local champions seldom receive the recognition they deserve for their invaluable contributions,” she said.

“This is a fantastic opportunity to show our gratitude to both individuals and groups and thank them for everything they do.

“We look forward to seeing the nominations people submit.

“We will welcome the opportunity to acknowledge their work and say thank you on behalf of the community.”

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However, if people need a hard copy or assistance, they can contact council on 5734 6200.

Nominations close 9am on November 8.

This year, the seven categories are:

1. Citizen of the Year

A person who is over 25 years of age, must be an Australian Citizen who resides in Mitchell Shire and who has either made a noteworthy contribution during the current year and/or given outstanding service to the local community over a number of years.

2. Young Citizen of the Year

A person aged 25 years or under, must be an Australian Citizen who lives in Mitchell Shire and who has made a noteworthy contribution during the current year and/or given outstanding service to the local community over a number of years.

3. Online or Community Event of the Year

Community event of the year is bestowed upon a community organisation or community group who have staged a noteworthy event during the preceding year to the award, this may include an online event as innovation is celebrated.

4. Community Group of the Year

Community group of the year is bestowed upon a community group who has made a significant contribution and exceptional service to the local community in the current year or over a number of years.

5. Access and Inclusion

The award recognises people with or without disability working in a voluntary capacity to improve access and inclusion for people with disability within Mitchell Shire.

6. Sports Person of the Year

Sports Person of the Year is someone who has made a significant impact to the development, integrity and professionalism of sport in the community.

7. Arts and/or Culture Person of the Year

Arts and/or Culture Person of the Year is someone who has valuably contributed, shown commitment to the development, and demonstrated significant achievement in the arts and/or culture community.

Turf cup racing returns to Seymour

Max Davies

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October 17, 2023

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Seymour Racing Club will this Sunday host the Seymour Cup, the first time in four years the event will return to the venue.

With gates opening at 11am, the cup day will feature a full card of racing as well as a wide range of activities, entertainment and race day packages to cater to all visitors.

Chief executive Chris Martin said Seymour was excited to be able to host the cup once again.

“We’re all very excited of course and a little bit nervous. I’ve only been in the chief executive role for about four months, so there’s a little bit of trepidation there, but also a lot of excitement,” he said.

“Everything’s going according to plan, the weather forecast is looking for us, and there’s really a little bit of something for everyone.”

The club’s two restaurants are already booked but there are plenty of other options on course for race-goers.

Entertainment includes comedian Evan Hocking as master of ceremonies, a DJ from 4.30pm, as well as Kelly Sports offering a range of childrens’ activities including a jumping castle, and fairy floss.

Also included is a new spin on the traditional fashion show called ‘style spotting’, where a representative from Seymour fashion shop Elsie and Florence will roam the crowd and pick out the best-dressed visitors.

Mr Martin said the club was anticipating many leading trainers and jockeys would take part in the $200,000 Seymour Cup race.

“It’s not only for the club, it’s just a wonderful thing to do for the community and our broader region of the Mitchell Shire and Nagambie,” he said.

“To have your main race back up and running, I think is really valuable considering we’re a year on from the floods and everything that happened there.

“Everyone’s very excited, the track’s in great condition, so it’ll be perfect come Sunday.”

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Kilmore cricket action: FULL GALLERY

Max Davies

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October 17, 2023

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Kilmore is yet to find a win in its Gisborne District Cricket Association’s Johnstone Shield Firsts season but is showing improvement following the first two rounds.

Read the full report here.

Photos by Max Davies.

Anne Moore resigns from Macedon Ranges Council

Max Davies

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October 17, 2023

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Anne Moore resigns from Macedon Ranges Council

Councillor Anne Moore has resigned from her position on Macedon Ranges Shire Council effective immediately.

Cr Moore resigned due to health and family reasons with chief executive of Macedon Ranges Shire Council Bernie O’Sullivan receiving and acknowledging her letter of resignation on Wednesday.

“From myself personally but also on behalf of council, I would like to acknowledge Cr Moore’s passionate representation and contributions towards the shire and its residents, since being elected to the South Ward in October 2020,” Mr O’Sullivan said.

“I thank Cr Moore for her service to our local community and support of the council team and wish her all the very best.”

The Victorian Electoral Commission will conduct a countback on November 13, with votes to be redistributed to candidates who were unsuccessful at the 2020 election but are still eligible to be elected.