The need for a 24-hour police station was one of several concerns raised at a recent police forum in Cobram
About 30 community members and dignitaries turned out to hear from officers attached to the Wangaratta and Cobram police units at the Cobram Civic Centre on Thursday
Wangaratta Inspector Ash Mason said he understood the community’s concerns over a 24-hour police presence in Cobram
“I’m currently working with our people and on a model to work towards a permanent implementation of a 24-hour rostered service delivery with our current available resources,” he said to the audience
but what I’m hoping to work towards is a model where we have staff on duty
and not reliant on the on-call or availability model.”
Wangaratta Superintendent Joy Arbuthnot confirmed the project was in development
but at least it’s a step towards providing a better on-duty response,” Supt Arbuthnot said
such as Cobram CIU Detective Sergeant Marcus Boyd
outlined the major concerns and priorities in their specialist fields
Questions from the audience were fielded throughout the evening and answered by the panel
They touched on topics ranging from breaches of family violence intervention orders to co-operation between Victoria Police and NSW Police across the state border
State Member for Ovens Valley Tim McCurdy was impressed by the breadth of subjects and knowledge demonstrated by the panel’s members
“I thought tonight was a very proactive night because the police came to the community to talk about what they’re doing,” he said
“It was mentioned by Supt Joy Arbuthnot that it’s really important we be proactive and lock our cars
The need for a 24-hour police presence in Cobram was something with which Mr McCurdy said he was well familiar
“Moira Shire is still a long way from either Shepparton or Wangaratta
and that is the burning issue that we will take to the election next year: and that’s about getting a 24-hour station and presence in Cobram or Yarrawonga,” he said
“[People] are concerned about the time frame it takes to ring 000
By the time somebody comes to deal with the situation
The next stage of upgrade works at Kennedy Park
the park is undergoing works involving the construction of accessible footpaths
all-abilities car parking near the toilets
Moira Shire Council chair administrator Graeme Emonson said the multi-stage project would ensure the facility continues to thrive as a beloved destination for families
“It’s great to see investment going into public spaces that bring value to local families
while also making the region more attractive to visitors
These types of improvements can have long-term economic and social benefits for the community,” Dr Emonson said
“This is a fantastic example of how partnerships can deliver lasting benefits
By working alongside Berrigan Shire Council and with support from the Office of the NSW Cross-Border Commissioner
we’re creating an improved space that brings people together and encourages tourism in the region.”
Council chief executive officer Matthew Morgan said the project reflected the council’s commitment to improving public spaces for everyone
“Planning for this upgrade has carefully considered how people currently access the space to ensure there is no impact to current use
while also looking at how we can make it more accessible and safer for people
and ensure it aligns with the natural beauty of the area,” Mr Morgan said
It follows the successful installation of a new playground and artworks at the park last year
Parts of the Kennedy Park foreshore will be closed to the public while construction is under way
For more information, visit council’s website at https://tinyurl.com/av7n73c2
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an ideal Murray River destination for a family holiday or a weekend getaway in Victoria
Here are the best things to do in the area
Cobram might only be three hours drive from Melbourne, but the laid-back, riverine lifestyle feels like a world away. Located in Victoria’s "Sun country", Cobram is a great haunt for families wanting to make the most of the Murray River and those searching for an authentic bush getaway without foregoing creature comforts
Before heading out, check that your emergency roadside assistance is up to date, and download the VicEmergency app to check for bushfire or extreme weather warnings
Cactus Country is overflowing with cacti and succulents to explore
Cactus Country is Victoria’s ode to all plants succulent and spiky
The 12-acre gardens overflow with thousands of cacti and succulents from Mexico
stop by the Mexican restaurant for lunch or a cactus ice cream
then pick up live cacti or cactus-themed gifts (like cactus honey) from the gift shop
Sporties Barooga has four state-of-the-art sports simulators (The Bunker) as well as a mini golf course the whole family can enjoy
Sporties Mini Golf offers an 18-hole course with fun landscaping and uniquely crafted holes that both casual and serious players can enjoy
including the Australasian Mini Golf Open and the Oceania Mini Golf Open in 2023
The Big Strawberry is one of Australia's Big Icons
visitors to the Big Strawberry farm can take photos of themselves with the giant strawberry icon
As well as picking strawberries from the strawberry patch (when in season)
there are strawberry-themed desserts for a sweet treat
Kids will love the homemade ice creams and the two playgrounds
while adults can taste The Big Strawberry-produced wines
There's also an indoor beehive to check out
plus history rooms and a large range of strawberry products
Quinns Island in Cobram Region Park is an inland island full of waterbirds
with a large bird hide that's perfect for twitchers
Quinns Island has a lovely 3.2km walking track and several beaches
Pedestrian access to the island is via a bridge off River Road
Drive a few minutes to Bullanginya Lagoon in Barooga to view 'Bullanginya Dreaming'
an immersive laser light show that journeys through the region's Bangerang Indigenous history
Explore the nighttime walking track to find multimedia installations that captive the senses and educate about the significance of a profound connection to the land
and tall river red gums bordering the beach
it's the perfect place to relax and hang out
There may be a game of beach cricket or volleyball that you can join
cool off with a swim in the Cobram Outdoor Pool
you can visit the Rich Glen Olive Estate's provedore in Yarrawonga
Ask for a tasting of the regional produce and purchase artisan olive oils
Two doors down from the Rich Glen Yarrawonga Provedore
step into Rich Glen Skin & Beauty for all your wellness needs
This boutique store offers a curated selection of natural skincare
Lunch is served with a side of history at Byramine Homestead in Burramine
Expect a long list of hearty pub grub in the bistro
including several different variations on the classic chicken parma
It's open seven days a week for lunch and dinner
with a different special on every weeknight
The kids can even enjoy their own play area
with CCTV forwarded to the Bistro screen for parents' peace of mind
head to the newly refurbished sports bar for a cold beer and screens covering races and sports
a cake and maybe even some koala spotting when you visit this café next to Thompson's Beach
The café is open Thursday to Sunday and doubles as a tourist information point for the region
It's a hub for live entertainment in summer
the Cobram-Barooga Classic Australian Beach Volleyball Tour in February
and the annual Easter River Beaches Festival
This homestead is recognised by the National Trust thanks to its unusual octagonal rooms
as well as the fact it was built by Hamilton Hume
the colonial explorer after whom the Hume Highway is named
Byramine also has an on-site brewery and cidery plus a restaurant serving light meals and Devonshire teas
The Corner Shop in Cobram is open seven days a week for delicious gelato and espresso
smoothies and other hot and cold beverages
It's a popular space for tourists and locals alike thanks to its nostalgic air and friendly service
RACV Cobram Resort is surrounded by lovely bush walks
You'll find a good selection of caravan parks
B&Bs and luxury self-contained units in Cobram
Set yourself up for an extended stay at a motel, caravan park or relaxed lakeside resort on landscaped grounds
just 3.5km from Scotts Beach and 6km from Cobram Barooga Golf Club
and fully equipped apartments that can sleep up to six people
The honour of being Tour Leaders is a heavy weight to carry however it was anything but a burden for those handed the black singlets on day one of the Cobram-Barooga Classic
South Australian pair Gosia Rzepka and Camila Franchi played beyond their fifth seeding in Glenelg to not only qualify for the final four
but then went on to win their first ever Australian Beach Volleyball Tour title
They were eliminated in the round of 16 in Canberra earlier this month but are back in Cobram
once again as the fifth seeds and have their eyes set on another appearance on Super Sunday after going through day one undefeated
“It’s always heavy [wearing the Tour Leader colours]
“It’s exciting though; the fact that you’re in the black shirts means you have to play well… I think I look good in black
The 32-year-old Brazilian loves the venue at Thompsons Beach
and after going three-from-three on day one is hoping she and Rzepka can continue their form on Saturday
I really like playing here to be honest,” said Brazilian-born Franchi
all the courts are close so you can watch your friends as well so it’s really nice
but let’s hope tomorrow is just as good as it was today.”
Victorian combo Justin Schumann and Garang Anyang have had plenty of success on the national tour
and are looking to make their 10th Super Sunday as a combination
They have already reached the final four at the opening two tournaments this season
making it all the way to the final in Glenelg
sit atop the Tour standings and wear the black singlets in Cobram
While talented players surround them in the draw
none of the top four seeds have as much experience playing together as the Victorians and they know how that time on court together can play into their hands in the elimination phase over the weekend
“It’s a team sport and I think you even see it on the World Tour
new teams get together and sometimes have a honeymoon period but they don’t really figure out their systems for a few months,” said Schumann
“But Garang and I know each other so well
which of each other’s buttons we need to push to get each other fired up
we both know how each other likes our sets so it’s a big thing.”
With the pair having stood on the Tour podium six times
wearing the black singlets shouldn’t come as a shock but Anyang says it remains a privilege
“It really is a huge honour to wear it,” said Anyang
“Winning is always the goal and having the opportunity to play against the great teams that are the usual Sunday Semi-Final teams
Day two of the Cobram-Barooga Classic starts at 7:30am on Saturday at Thompsons Beach
Click here for draws and results.
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Students and staff at Cobram’s Trikki Kidz Early Learning Centre have banded together to support one of their own
dozens of students donned green clothing to support former classmate Benji Youd by raising money for the Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy Foundation
so he’s always been a part of our community,” supervisor Tamika Dyson said on the day
“Victoria [Benji’s mum] put it out there that she was doing the Good Friday Appeal
and that was what opened it up for us to then ask if we could do something for it.”
Benji lives with Duchenne muscular dystrophy, a condition that causes the progressive atrophy of his muscles.
It’s only the latest in a collection of events run by the centre to support greater research into the condition
the play-dough drive where we sold play-dough,” Ms Dyson said
“Now we are also going to do an art show to sell the kids’ art.”
An Easter Raffle, held across the company’s three centres in Cobram, Barooga and Yarrawonga, also hauled in an impressive $2200 — all of which went to Benji’s Good Friday Appeal.
“We honestly didn’t think we’d get that much.”
With students from pre-school to kinder ages jumping on board the dress-up day
the centre quickly hit its target of raising $100 from gold coin donations
Ms Dyson and fellow supervisor Jayne Allemand are yet to lock in a date for the art show
but hope to hold the event around the end of June
Follow the Trikki Kidz Early Learning Group’s Facebook page at tinyurl.com/2nmjvvp4 for updates
Cobram may have entered its round five clash with Numurkah undefeated
but that didn’t mean the contest at Numurkah Showgrounds was any less fierce
With key defender and skipper Sam Beasley and brother Harry Beasley relegated to the sideline thanks to injury
there was only so much the Tigers could conjure in terms of leadership on-field
Free kicks given away to the opposition on several occasions gave the home side the edge by the half-time siren
the hosts looked to seal the deal in the second half
But the tables turned in the Tigers’ favour in the third quarter
with efforts in front of goal from Ben Ryan and Fergus Pinnuck
but a physical contest saw players on both sides go down
Cobram’s Tim Garlick was escorted off after a third-quarter head knock
while Lucas Roberts limped off later in the fourth term
Another Ryan special before the full-time siren crowned the Tigers victors with the score reading 7.5 (47) to 10.9 (69) Cobram’s way
“I think we were pretty happy to get the four points
and they definitely took it right up to us
They had control for a good part of the first half
and we were lucky enough in the second half that things opened up for us,” Cobram coach Mark Meyland said after the match
Meyland said he didn’t think the side was out of the game
But the Tigers’ apparent lack of discipline on the field — a subject of discussion at the half-time break — proved to be a thorn in the Tigers’ side until the second half
“We just started to string the ball together a bit better
we started to use the spread of the game and got a bit of a running game going
which we lacked a bit in the first half,” Meyland said
but his defensive side of things was just exceptional yesterday.”
Hunter Hardwidge and Alec Ritchie were named best-on-ground for Cobram
the Tigers face ninth-placed Tongala at Scott Oval
Round seven the weekend after will see the Tigers face Congupna
who sit comfortably atop the ladder with a margin of almost 500 percentage points
“I suppose we’ve set up to where we need to be
We’ve got a solid four games after the break,” Meyland said
Reserves action saw a dominant Cobram outfit pay a visit to Numurkah
where the Tigers left little in doubt about their strength in round five of the Carlton Draught Cup
The Tigers cruised to a six-goal lead by half-time (3.2-9.2) thanks to a goal-kicking vendetta from Hunter Verhoeven (six goals) and Koby Withers (three goals)
Despite a third quarter resurgence from the Blues
Best-on-ground for Cobram were Daniel Clarke
Moira Shire Council has welcomed the beginning of major upgrades to a notorious intersection near Strathmerton
Works on the Labuan Rd-Murray Valley Hwy intersection began on Monday
with council chair administrator Graeme Emonson expressing his support for the project
“This intersection has long been a concern for our community
and council has been persistent in advocating for these much-needed safety improvements,” he said
“We are pleased to see our efforts come to fruition
and we thank the Australian Government for funding this critical project through the Black Spot Program and to Transport Victoria for delivering the works at the intersection.”
The works are expected to be complete in three months
and seek to address community concerns around the safety of the intersection
Upgrades include removing the railway embankment and installing a splitter island
new kerbing and rumble strips on Labuan Rd
the works will also see electronic speed signs installed at the intersection
The upgrades come following the 2023 crash that claimed the lives of five people
including Cobram resident Debbie Markey and four international workers
Electing to take a gap year before commencing tertiary education appears to be popular among Year 12 graduates after the rigours and stress of study for their Victorian Certificate of Education
While excited to accept an offer of their choice last year
18-year-old Meg Hyde and some of her school friends have elected to put their university commencement date on hold for 12 months
There are significant benefits for a student’s academic path as well as their career trajectory in taking a gap year
a break from study enables them to explore different interests and gain experience and maturity before commencing their chosen course
Particularly important also for country students is finding full or part-time work during the year to fund their educational and personal expenses if attending a university that requires them to live away from home
who has worked part-time in hospitality for some years in Cobram
the opportunity to work as a casual employee at Saputo was a godsend
It is enabling her to get an idea of what it is like being part of a large team and understanding her role and obligations to fellow team members
while working four 10-hour shifts per week
Working alongside people of various nationalities and cultures is interesting for Meg
who works in the nutritional section where infant formula is produced
it’s an experience she will always remember
It is also giving her a wonderful opportunity to save funds for next year when she plans to take up her course in Melbourne
Meg has been offered a placement to study for a Bachelor of Social Work at Victoria University
After discussions with her career adviser at St Mary of the Angels in Nathalia
Meg felt that studying social work complemented her interest in helping others
She is looking forward to commencing the first of a four-year course in Melbourne in 2026 and catching up with friends at various universities while also making new friends
having time with friends and making the most of being at home with her family
Meg has also passed a milestone in her sporting career
having recently played 100 games of netball with the Cobram Football Netball Club
She began in the sport while in Year 4 and loved the game immediately
and we had a terrific time and Erin Higgins
“The first season I played either in defence or as a goal shooter
Today I play C-reserve as a defender and Sherrene Thompson is our coach
but because of my work I can only get to training one night
I do love the game and being in a team with my friends.”
Achieving her 100th game at the club was a proud moment for Meg
and parents Mary and Anthony Hyde made considerable fuss over their favourite netballer
Meg’s siblings are well known in Cobram for their sporting talents
a talented young footballer who was the 2024 leading goalscorer in the under-14s MFNL and dual recipient of the league best-and-fairest award
while Meg is living and studying at Victoria University in Footscray
she’s hopeful of playing netball for the university
the 18-year-old voted for the first time in Australia’s federal election
but I felt very mature and accomplished something I had never done before,” Meg said
I asked Meg where she would like to be in five years’ time
Did she have any particular aspirations for her life
I will have achieved my degree and probably will be living and working in Melbourne and planning my future travels
I would love to visit Europe and the UK to begin with,” she said
this quietly confident young woman has the ability to achieve her goals and become who she wants to be
a qualified social worker helping others while listening and guiding them to a happier and more fulfilling life
It includes lots of travel to different locations around the globe
seeing spectacular sights such as the Eiffel Tower in Paris and the Colosseum in Rome
learning to skydive and travelling extensively throughout South America
A man from Cobram has been discharged from hospital following a blaze that consumed an apartment on Anzac Day
The Alfred Hospital in Melbourne confirmed a 50-year-old Cobram man was discharged from the Burns Unit on Sunday
It comes following reports that paramedics had treated a 50-year-old man who had been pulled from a Hay Ave apartment by concerned residents on Friday, April 25.
The man was later transferred from Goulburn Valley Health to The Alfred
where The Courier understands he was treated for smoke inhalation
Emergency services, including CFA, Ambulance Victoria and Victoria Police, were called to the scene of the fire around 7.05pm on Friday, April 25
The fire was brought under control by 7.49pm and declared safe at 9.35pm
Restrictions for the control of the avian influenza outbreak near Euroa have been reduced
restrictions will apply only within a new 5km control area around the four affected properties near Euroa
including those for game bird hunters and hunting activities
will no longer apply in areas outside the new control area
Agriculture Victoria will continue to monitor for disease
complete decontamination of affected properties and eradicate the outbreak
Victoria’s acting chief veterinary officer Sally Salmon thanked the poultry industry and the community for their cooperation to date
“This is a significant step towards establishing Victoria’s freedom from high pathogenicity avian influenza,” Dr Salmon said
“We have been able to further ease restrictions due to the cooperation and hard work of industry
community and the impacted property owners
“We are in the final stages of decontaminating the affected premises
We have had over 100 staff and contractors working on the response for almost three months and we appreciate their ongoing commitment.”
Restrictions remain in place for the movement of birds
poultry products (including eggs and manure)
and vehicles on or off properties in the new control area
Game bird hunting is also not permitted in the control area
To prevent and eliminate biosecurity threats
every livestock producer should have an up-to-date farm biosecurity plan and be able to recognise signs of diseases that could impact their animals
Poultry farmers and backyard flock and bird owners are urged to report any cases of unexplained bird deaths to the 24-hour Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888
More information on the current H7 bird flu response, including movement permits and a map showing the new control area, is available at agriculture.vic.gov.au/avianinfluenza or by calling the VicEmergency Hotline on 1800 226 226
Two children have been found dead at a home in a regional town
Officers visited the property at Coonabarabran
following reports of a concern for their welfare
A 66-year-old woman was taken to Coonabarabran Police Station and was being questioned by officers
They said there was no further information available as inquiries continued
Recent meetings between local MPs and healthcare providers in the north-east have highlighted accessibility concerns
state Member for Northern Victoria Gaelle Broad and Shadow Minister for Health George Crozier met with senior executives at Bendigo Health
the Pharmacy Guild of Australia and local GPs
“We had a series of very constructive meetings with local health providers
discussing some of the difficulties that our health system is facing — particularly in our regional towns,” Ms Cleeland said
mismanagement and underinvestment in our health services under Labor have meant too many Victorians suffer tragic health outcomes
“Too many Victorians are waiting too long to be cared for
“Labor’s financial mismanagement is having a direct impact on frontline services and patient outcomes are suffering.“
Ms Cleeland identified a range of issues faced by regional Victorians when accessing the healthcare system
a Victorian Government spokesperson said Labor was committed to delivering new services throughout the state
“We won’t be taking lectures from the Liberal Nationals — the same party that went to war with our paramedics
cut health services and stood by while their federal colleagues gutted primary care,” the spokesperson said
she has forgotten which party saved the Euroa Bush Hospital from closing in 2024 by bringing it into public hands
we’re getting on with the job — delivering new hospitals
and investing record funding into our health system every year.”
The federal electorate of Nicholls will again be represented by Sam Birrell after he retained the seat in what was a landslide win for The Nationals
With 76 of 79 polling places returned as of 2pm Sunday
Mr Birrell had received 44,889 votes — 48.04 per cent of the vote
His closest competitor was Labor’s Kim Travers with 22,014 votes (23.56 per cent)
Mr Birrell was pleased to return as member for Nicholls for a second term
“It’s a great thing to serve a term and then be re-elected and put here again,” he said
Speaking to The News before it was announced that Labor had won government federally
Mr Birrell said if the Coalition was not in government he would not be able to guarantee delivery on all the election promises that were dependent on the Coalition being in power
he said he would “make every effort” to get those things for the people of Nicholls
Following Labor’s landslide federal victory
Mr Birrell said being in opposition again is a position he’d rather not have
“But it doesn’t limit your ability to be an effective representative in Canberra.”
Mr Birrell said he would continue to advocate for regional areas
“I got in this to do a job and to represent my community.”
Mr Birrell spent his day on Saturday at polling booths in Shepparton
I wanted to thank as many volunteers as I could,” he said
“I’m incredibly grateful to the volunteers
“Only people who have done it know what it feels like on your feet on election day
Mr Birrell also praised the volunteers handing out how-to-vote cards for other candidates standing against him
“I’m equally thankful to and admire them because they believe in something and are prepared to stand on their feet for it,” Mr Birrell said
“The banter between different people (from different parties) handing out how-to vote cards was good.”
“These people participated in a really respectful way
“I don’t mind being disagreed with or people putting different points of view
but do it respectively and constructively,” he said
Federal Electorate District Council Nicholls branch president Lindsay Dann announced Mr Birrell’s win to National party faithful at a gathering in Shepparton on Saturday night of all those who helped in the campaign
“Three years ago it was an election at knife edge at this point (in Nicholls)
Here we are in 2025 and we already know we smashed it in Nicholls,” he said while announcing the win about 8.30pm
The win for Mr Birrell was a bittersweet one
with the Coalition not gaining enough seats for power
“The win is tinged with sadness because we’re going to lose some colleagues,” he told his party faithful
Drivers could face a $961 fine for not slowing down when passing a recently expanded set of roadside response operators
The Victorian Government’s changes to Road Rule 79A means that motorists will have to slow down to 40km/h when passing incident response operators
Cobram Panel Works owner Mark Haberfield welcomed the announcement
saying that it would make a big difference to his and his employees’ safety when responding to a vehicle breakdown or incident
“It gives operators like myself and my staff who are putting themselves in a vulnerable position a little more protection
which is ultimately what we’re after in a safe working space.”
enforcement vehicles and VicRoads Incident Response Service vehicles were covered by the road rule
Mr Haberfield said the changes were a long time coming
“It’s been long overdue for tow operators and breakdown assistance operators across the sector,” he said
RACV General Manager of Automotive Services Makarla Cole said RACV was pleased with Roads and Road Safety Minister Melissa Horne’s announcement that Victorians would soon slow down when passing any incident response vehicle
“Victoria's emergency roadside workers and tow truck drivers are often the first and only responders to an incident or breakdown and are exposed to the same risks to other responders
“I am sure every driver who has needed the help of an emergency roadside assistance worker or tow truck driver will be pleased to know that the Victorian Government is now protecting these essential responders in their workplace
The changes come into effect from July 1 this year
and bring Victoria in line with other Australian states
Romania's far-right presidential candidate George Simion has won the first round of the country's repeated presidential election by a wide margin
The election took place months after an annulled vote plunged the European Union and NATO member country into its worst political crisis in decades
The ballot is seen as a test of the rise of Donald Trump-style nationalism in the European Union
Ballots from nearly 98 per cent of voting stations showed Bucharest Mayor Nicusor Dan
if final results confirm the reading after diaspora votes are counted
An independent running on an anti-corruption platform
a centrist candidate backed by the three parties in the pro-western coalition government for his spot in the run-off
A Simion victory could isolate the country
erode private investment and destabilise NATO's eastern flank
where Ukraine is fighting a three-year-old Russian invasion
It would also expand a cohort of Eurosceptic leaders in the EU that already includes the Hungarian and Slovak prime ministers at a time when Europe is struggling to formulate its response to Trump
It is the victory of those who have not lost hope
Benefiting from a wave of popular anger against mainstream leaders
opposes military aid to neighbouring Ukraine
is critical of the EU leadership and says he is aligned with the US president's Make America Great Again movement
The presidential election in Ukraine's neighbour is being closely watched by other European countries
since the post holds strong influence over foreign and security policy
Sunday's vote came five months after a first attempt to hold the election was cancelled because of alleged Russian interference in favour of far-right frontrunner Calin Georgescu
Georgescu was banned from running for president again and has been under investigation by the public prosecutor's office since February for making false statements about his campaign financing
Simion says his aim is to ensure "justice" for Georgescu if he wins the election
He has not ruled out helping Georgescu into the office of prime minister
It was a tough day for the Tigers on the courts over the weekend when Cobram hosted Echuca for round four of the MFNL
Cobram’s A-grade outfit couldn’t keep a lid on a classy Echuca troupe
which made the most of its opportunities from turnovers to take a 16-41 point win over the hosts
But it wasn’t enough to stop the Eagles from claiming a 23-31 win
C-grade fell by the skin of their teeth as a smart Echuca outfit took victory 30-36 at full-time
It was always going to be a tight contest between the two C-reserves sides
With only percentage points separating Cobram and Echuca at fifth and fourth on the ladder
the latter managed to tuck away a seven-point win (31-38)
Meg Hyde marked her 100th club game with Cobram
thousands of community members turned out on Anzac Day to reflect and pay respects to those Australian servicemen and women who lost their lives during war
A dawn service at the Cobram Civic Centre inaugurated the public holiday
drawing the young and the old alike as the sun lit up the morning sky
A commemorative service at the memorial later that morning drew a larger crowd of community members
Setting out from Federation Park and led by the Cobram and District Pipe Band
a line of marchers made its way through Cobram’s CBD to finish at the memorial outside the civic centre
a service was held which featured a performance of Side by Side by the Cobram Anglican Grammar School choir
followed by an eloquent speech on the meaning of Anzac Day by Commodore Ashley Papp
along with the services at Strathmerton and Tocumwal
were each treated to a flyover by pilots from Tocumwal Airport
Cobram-Barooga RSL Sub-branch president John Hanlon said he was impressed by the size of the crowd at this year’s services in Cobram
“We were very happy with the way things went,” he said
“It gives the community the opportunity to reflect on our country and what our soldiers
sailors and airmen did through the conflicts over the years.”
The absence of rainfall came as a relief to organisers
with the forecast wet weather remaining at bay until later that weekend
Mr Hanlon said he had noticed an increasing number of young people at the services over the years
with the primary and secondary schools across the district consistently supporting the event
including Nathalia’s St Mary of the Angels Secondary College
the morning service was supported by the Cobram-Barooga Apex Club
The Australian Defence Force School of Health provided the catafalque party
a smaller ceremony across the Murray River was held at Sporties Barooga
Victoria Police blocked off the service road to enable a procession of community members to march east from the Strathmerton Fire Station to the Strathmerton Public Hall
Guests enjoyed a morning tea after the service inside the hall
joined by serving defence force personnel from Albury-Wodonga
Deniliquin St swelled with a crowd of at least 1000 community members
emergency services personnel and veterans who paid their respects to the town’s involvement in the conflict and those who lost their lives in it
Early voting for the federal election is about to open
If you can’t make it to the polls on election day
there are plenty of early voting centres available that will be open from Tuesday
These centres will be open over the next two weeks
For more information or to find other locations, go to tinyurl.com/3pdsr65u
You can vote early either in person or by post if on polling day you:
The Cobram Roar suffered a 1-0 upset loss at the hands of Albury United on Sunday
Round seven of the Albury Wodonga Football Association saw the Roar visit United
With the wind at their backs from their round six thumping of Wodonga Heart earlier in the month
the Roar men were looking to secure a further three points
But after losing key goal scorer and skipper Bill Puckett to an ankle injury in the 29th minute
the visitors found themselves struggling to retain possession of the ball through the middle of the park
United laid siege to the Roar goal and eventually managed to score in the 69th minute
with the final whistle ending the contest without a Cobram response
Roar coach Daniel Vasilevski said he thought his side started the match okay
“But we were making quite a few unforced errors in the middle of the park
where we gave the ball away cheaply,” he said
but we just gave them too may chances to score,” he said
Vasilevski highlighted efforts of Roar keeper Tarkyn Hyde
“They could’ve won that game 3-0 if it wasn’t for Tarkyn
That was a positive from him out of the game,” he said
“I think playing against weaker sides has given us not so much a false sense of confidence
but I think this game with United has been a wake-up call.”
Training will see the men in yellow and black work on keeping possession in midfield
and is next scheduled to take on ladder-leading Myrtleford Savoy at Apex Park on Sunday
Shepparton had a much hotter and drier April than usual this year
Daytime temperatures averaged 25.4°C throughout the month
This is 2.8°C higher than normal for this time of year
according to Bureau of Meteorology figures recorded over the past 28 years
The hottest April day saw the mercury rise to 31.1°C on April 12
when the temperature got to only 20.2°C on April 5
Minimum night-time temperatures were 2.5°C above average this year
The mean night-time low in Shepparton this year was 11.3°C
This compares to the historical average of the past 28 years of 8.8°C
when the temperature dropped to only 17.3°C
The coldest night saw a chilly minimum of 3.5°C recorded on April 6
Shepparton also seemed to miss most of the rain
with the Bureau of Meteorology recording a total of only 1.8mm for the month at Shepparton airport in Kialla
This is a far cry from the 35.8mm that is the historical average for the month in the town over the past 28 years
There were only three days of rain this year — with the highest reading a measly 1mm on April 26
The other two days that rain fell only saw 0.2mm on April 3 and 0.6mm on April 24
Oliver Merritt and Jed Walker had never made Super Sunday at any Australian Beach Volleyball Tour event but finished finals day standing atop the podium after an incredible run through the tournament
Jana Milutinovic celebrated her fifth straight title alongside Taliqua Clancy who notched her 16th win on the national tour
The number one seeds didn’t have it all their own way though
pushed hard by second seeds and training buddies Georgia Johnson and Lizzie Alchin
Clancy and Milutinovic won the opening set before Johnson and Alchin opened up an advantage in the second which they were able to hold onto and even up the clash
The Canberra victors from three weeks ago were able to flip momentum back their way in the third and take their second straight win
Milutinovic won her first ever Tour event at Cobram 12 months ago and was determined to keep her run of success going this year
“This time last year was my first-ever gold medal so to have not dropped a gold medal since is pretty awesome.”
Clancy said her new partnership with Milutinovic is still coming together and will take more steps forward as the combination prepare to head overseas for Beach Pro Tour events in Mexico and Brazil
“I really enjoy the new partnership and the growth we can have as a team,” said the Olympic silver medallist
“I really see that we can be one of the top teams on tour and I’m excited for us just to keep growing and to get on World Tour to soak in all those experiences and keep growing our game.”
the men’s decider commenced with second seeds Paul Burnett and Luke Ryan going in as favourites
However it was the dynamic combination of Oliver Merritt and Jed Walker who maintained the form which less than 24 hours before saw them win their first quarter-final
A semi-final win in the morning seemed to take little out of the pair who were out of the blocks to take the first set from Burnett and Ryan
Despite often bringing out the crowd’s voice with huge shots
Burnett and Ryan couldn’t get on top with their energetic opponents not giving an inch
After sealing the match and being initially overcome by emotion
Merritt pointed out the Adelaide 2025 World Championships signage to his teammate
indicating that’s where they want to end up in November this year
It’s that same confidence the Queenslander brought into the week and while many watching on may be surprised by the fifth seeds victory
he thought they were always a chance of lifting the trophy
“100% – we went in this wanting to win; we went into this thinking we were good enough to win,” he said
“And we knew if we played our best and delivered what we know we can do
we could take down absolutely anybody in this field.”
who was named MVP of the 2023 Australian Volleyball Super League Final
his transition to a predominantly beach player has taken a leap forward today and he also bears the confidence of his teammate
at any moment we know what we need from each other,” said the West Australian
we’ve got a shared goal and it’s just so awesome to tick this box off.”
Cameron Zajer claimed her second bronze medal in the space of three weeks
while Garang Anyang and Justin Schumann scored their 10th national tour podium together in the men’s playoff for third
The fourth and final round of the Australian Beach Volleyball Tour will take place at the Mahindra Australian Beach Volleyball Championships on 21-23 March at Coolangatta
[1] Taliqua Clancy/Jana Milutinovic d [2] Georgia Johnson/Lizzie Alchin 2:1 (21-17
[5] Oliver Merritt/Jed Walker d [2] Paul Burnett/Luke Ryan 2:0 (21-17
[4] Cameron Zajer/Tara Phillips d [3] StefieFejes/Lara Marić 2:1 (18-21
[3] Garang Anyang/Justin Schumann d [8] Ben Carroll/Klass McIntosh 2:0 (21-17
A fire that broke out in Cobram’s east late last week has left a property in ruins
Over half a dozen CFA crews from across the district responded to reports of an electric scooter fire at the corner of Cedar Crt and Blackwood Cres around 2.15pm on Friday
Victoria Police evacuated residents from nearby homes as firefighters fought to bring the blaze under control
NSW RFS crews supported CFA brigades from Cobram
Yarroweyah and others to contain the fire by late afternoon
Despite reports of an explosion near the source of the fire
‘forceful’ bang around 2.15pm in the front yard of the home
A power line is believed to have fallen into the front yard of the home
Police are treating the incident as non-suspicious at this stage
Out of hundreds of Victorian towns and cities
Cobram and Barooga has found itself sitting in the top ten in the order of communities that have donated the most to the Royal Children’s Hospital
With a glance at some of the individuals and families behind this year’s appeal
it may be easy to see why the community has raised over $10,600 and made it to sixth place in the town rankings
Victoria Paterson and her partner Dominic Youd decided to start their own Good Friday Appeal to give back to the RCH after their five-year-old son
was diagnosed with Duchenne muscular dystrophy last year
Their appeal’s initial fundraising goal was $2500 - no mean sum in today’s cost-of-living crisis
It took another two weeks to pass their new target of $5000
which led Victoria to again raise their target to $7500
April 19 that target was also knocked over flat
Benji’s appeal had reached a massive $10,493.19 by Monday
“I just want to say a big thank-you to everyone who donated
especially to Trikki Kidz who did such a good job organising the Easter Egg raffle,” Victoria said
Trikki Kidz Early Learning Group on William St raised $2,254 from its Easter raffle
which was combined with Benji’s fundraiser and donated to the Good Friday Appeal
Victoria was shocked as target after target was hit
“I was nervous to do the initial goal of $2500
I just didn’t know how people were going to respond to it,” she said
I had that same nervous feeling of being greedy almost
“But all my friends and family encouraged me and said it was a good cause.”
Victoria and Dominic have explained to Benji what it all means
Victoria and Dominic haven’t settled on a particular project
but will definitely hold another appeal next Easter
we’re trying to brainstorm what to do next year to go bigger and better,” Victoria said
young Cobram CFA brigade volunteer Dom Thompson
exceeded his own fundraising target for the RCH this Easter
Dom collected used soft drink cans and glass bottles and cashed them in at the FOOTT CDS centre in Cobram
with the money raised going into the Cobram CFA’s collective appeal
Setting himself a target of $500, Dom had already raised $400 by the end of March
But didn’t he expect to raise as much as $637.50 for his efforts by Good Friday
“We hit a new record which was great,” he said
“It’s the largest amount I’ve raised in a year so far.”
he joined his fellow brigade members to shake the can at the Cobram - Barooga bridge
and went door-to-door at the Oasis and Green Palms Villages
Dom suffered a broken arm after a car crash
“I just know it’s good to give back to these things,” he said
Dom has already started collecting his cans and bottles for next year’s Good Friday Appeal
“Everybody has a different way they want to help out,” he said
“But as long as everyone helps out just a little
Australia's Marc Leishman has made a hole-in-one while carding a round of one-under par for a share of 18th place in the first round of the LIV Golf tournament in South Korea
Leishman and Ripper CG teammate Lucas Herbert were the leading Australians at six shots off the pace after day one at the Jack Nicklaus Golf Club Korea on Friday
Taylor Gooch of Smash GC and Crushers GC's Bryson DeChambeau shared the lead after shooting seven-under 65s on Friday
and Cleeks Golf Club's Richard Bland were a stroke further back in a share of third place
ahead of a four-way group two shots adrift at four-under
taking a birdie three at the fourth before sinking his tee shot on the 172-yard fifth
and making a birdie two at the eighth to be four under
But a bogey five at nine and a double-bogey at the par-four 11th helped consign him to his moderate round
It was Leishman's fourth career hole-in-one in competition
Herbert turned at two-under after a blemish-free front nine
before bogey fives at the 10th and 16th offset his sole inward birdie at the long 15th
Cameron Smith was the next best Australian after a one-over 73 left him in a tie for 32nd place
Leishman's ace was matched by that of Stinger GC's Dean Burmester
who needed just one shot on the 205-yard 13th en route to the 68 that left him tied for fifth
American Gooch said he hoped his superb round would reignite some of his best form from two years ago
"Hopefully this round kind of kick-starts a good rest of the season and we can kind of channel some of that 2023 season again," he said
The Agriculture Victoria BetterBeef and Bestwool/Bestlamb networks are going on a statewide trip
The 2025 Beef and Sheep Networks Roadshow will bring top industry experts to four locations across Victoria
to deliver the latest insights on pastures
the event is taking a fresh approach in 2025
Instead of one big Bestwool/Bestlamb and BetterBeef statewide conference
AgVic is bringing the knowledge to producers with a series of half-day events
making it easier to attend without spending a whole day off-farm
The events promise the same content — just more accessible and closer to home
The free event will hit the Mansfield Golf club on Wednesday
For more information and for details on the other three location’s events, head to agriculture.vic.gov.au/support-and-resources/event-listing
Local communities donated thousands of dollars to the Good Friday Appeal
a vital annual fundraiser supporting the wonderful work done at the Royal Children’s Hospital
fundraising activities brought in a record $23,822,792
with Cobram CFA bringing in $26,484.50 over the course of Good Friday
while other local areas also saw record tallies
regional and rural Victoria alone contributed an impressive $5,428,009
Good Friday Appeal chair Penny Fowler said communities across Victoria had united to make a huge difference for sick children and their families
“We extend our heartfelt thanks to every volunteer
fundraiser and supporter who came together to make this year’s appeal a remarkable success,” Ms Fowler said
“Your generosity and dedication is truly remarkable.”
Key highlights from this year’s notable contributions include the CFA
which marked 80 years of formation and 74 years of fundraising for the Good Friday Appeal
Its dedicated volunteers raised an incredible $1,888,912 this year
bringing their lifetime total to over $41 million
This year’s donations will support vital programs and advancements
including extending child life therapy into the emergency department
purchasing specialised medical equipment such as ultrasound machines
supporting regional health services across Victoria for the second year
and investing in critical research and treatments for conditions such as epilepsy
type 1 diabetes and acute lymphoblastic leukaemia
this year’s appeal will support the RCH’s art therapy program
which provides children and families with a creative and supportive outlet to express and explore the emotional impact of hospitalisation
Good Friday Appeal executive director Rebecca Cowan said the remarkable success of this year’s appeal would not have been possible without the extraordinary generosity of communities across Victoria
many of whom donated or fundraised because of their personal connection to the Royal Children’s Hospital
“This incredible achievement is a testament to the Victorian spirit,” she said
“Thank you for helping us ensure the Royal Children’s Hospital can continue providing world-class care.”
growth and calving ease pushed prices to $25,000 at the Reiland Angus autumn bull sale
the sale was hosted by the Lucas family at Killimicat Station
A total of 60 bulls were sold under the hammer from the 77 offered
Four bulls were sold immediately afterwards
an August 2023 drop son of Reiland Pirelli P913
Weighing 800kg and with a 42cm scrotal circumference
the young sire ranked top four per cent on BREEDPLAN for marbling at +5.3 per cent
Mr Aston also paid $12,000 for Reiland U-Recharge U875 and $11,000 for Reiland U-Compass U364
Mr Aston runs 400 autumn and spring calving Angus cows
a large cropping enterprise and opportunity feedlot
growing out heavyweight steers to sell over the hooks to Teys
The second top price of $16,000 was paid by repeat client Dougal Kelly
a 736kg son of The Rock Momentum Q8 and ranking top five per cent for carcass weight
Reiland retained a 50 per cent semen and marketing rights in the young sire
Mr Kelly bought a total of 10 bulls for his 1700 spring calving herd and was after well-balanced bulls with growth
Guest auctioneer Brian Leslie said commercial buyers were after bulls with a balance between low birth weight and high-growth rates coupled with above-average marbling
“You wouldn’t be living in the real world if you thought it was going to be off the planet as it is dry — with a top price of $25,000 and an average of $8342 for 60 bulls is a really good result for the buyer and the seller,” Mr Leslie said
“The return and new buyers have both got value today and will be back for more
It was a good of line of bulls ever offered here — they were presented really well and had good temperaments.”
After grand final heartbreak in 2022 Cobram is back in business following two years in the wild for the Tigers
Cobram remains one of two undefeated clubs left in Murray Football League alongside Congupna after it overcame a valiant Numurkah
Trailing by two goals in the third quarter on Saturday
the Tigers fought back hard against the Blues at Numurkah Showgrounds
Despite Cobram having a record of 4-0 and Numurkah having a record of 1-3 heading into the round five match
the fixture was a tight and entertaining contest
Leading by 15 points at the final change of ends
Cobram held firm against Numurkah to win the match 7.5 (47) to 10.9 (69) and keep its record unblemished
Although the Blues were spirited in defeat
they will need to find some wins fast if it is to hold out any hope of featuring in finals this season
One side who certainly isn’t feeling the blues in 2025 is Nathalia
After missing out on finals in disappointing fashion last season
the Purples have made a faultless start to their campaign
Nathalia lost to Finley in the final round of the home and away season last year after leading by 36 points
The loss meant the Purples gave up their chance for September glory
but Nathalia got a small slice of revenge against Finley on Saturday
the Purples monstered the Cats to win by 49 points
The victory was underpinned by a special 10-goal performance from star forward Liam Evans
Nathalia co-coach Glenn Boyd said the Purples love having a forward of his quality in their attacking half
“The thing about Evans is he is definitely not one-dimensional
I think last week he didn’t take a mark inside 50 and still kicked seven goals,” Boyd said
but he is just as capable if not more at ground level.”
Nathalia currently sits in fourth place on the ladder with a record of 4-1
Boyd believes his side has plenty of growth left in them
“Our forward 50 entries haven’t been great this year
“Against Numurkah we made hard work of it by just not capitalising with cleaner forward entries; I feel like if we can straighten that up
“I think our best side will be good enough to challenge anyone on their day
it is just we still have a lot of injuries
“We are just trying to get through to the bye at the moment and then we should add another five or six players back in post-bye and then we can get a good look to see where we are at.”
While there is room for improvement in attack
Boyd said his defence has been brilliant across the opening five rounds
Chris Brown in the middle has been fantastic,” he said
“Our back six is probably our strongest point led by Ryan Butler
he has been off to a super start to the year
“Sides aren’t really getting a hold of us up forward
“Bryce Mann is a recruit down back and he has been fantastic as well.”
Congupna continued its trend of demoralising every club it comes up against
The Murray league juggernaut defeated Echuca United 24-160
with star James Boyer kicking four goals and being named best-on-ground
Rumbalara secured its second win on the bounce as it defeated a fast-finishing Deniliquin by nine points
The Rams were left to wonder what might have been as they kicked 1.6 to Rumba’s 0.1 in the final term
Mulwala demolished Barooga by 166 points away from home
Jackson Meade booted six majors for the victors
Moama defeated Tongala by 35 points on the road
Rochester Mural Festival is back on track for 2026
The former festival committee announced in January they would be stepping away after this year’s edition
a group of community members expressed interest in joining a new committee to keep the event running
These meetings were an opportunity for the previous committee to explain their roles and the process of planning and running the festival
with attendees thanking them for their contributions to the community over the past 10 years
“It was a room full of excited and passionate people,” she said
“The previous committee have been very helpful and supportive.”
Interested future committee members also stepped forward to be involved
with a new secretary and treasurer selected on Tuesday
The running of the festival will now operate as a subcommittee of Rochester Business Network
able to use the group’s existing insurances and structures
Kate Lee will take on the secretary position
Further places in the committee will be filled in the coming weeks
“We’ve made it quite clear that we can’t do this on our own
Mrs Lee said that the second meeting was a good show of support from members of the community who are willing to keep the festival running
“I think we’ve got the commitment now,” she said
there is a lot of roles for people to come in
you don’t have to be there from the very start
The jobs required to put the festival together will be split into groups
advertising and marketing; looking after the artists; coordinating volunteers and preparing the mural site
A leader for each of these task groups will form the committee
attending meetings and working with the other leaders
There has been a show of support from groups like the Lions
where members want to contribute as volunteers
Mrs Lee and Mrs Kyne are looking forward to the 2026 edition of the event
“Future artists will be thrilled with the suggestions to date.”
Key information about the 2026 Rochester Mural Festival
with seats at the table to contribute to the varied roles
“We’re still looking for interest,” Mrs Lee said
“Anyone interested can definitely reach out
especially if you’re new to town or if you’ve got new connections.”
Those interested in joining the Rochester Mural Festival committee are encouraged to reach out to secretary Kate Lee on 0429 569 820 or by contacting Rochester Business Network via admin@rochesterbusinessnetwork.com.au
Doug and Lorraine Rosenow were recently treated to a special dinner for their landmark wedding anniversary at the infamous site of their wedding night
All the stops were pulled out at the Lockington Hotel
the venue the couple booked and found was closed when they arrived at the start of their honeymoon 60 years ago
“And it gets better: the bed we got was a single,” Doug told the Riv for a recent story on the Rosenow’s milestone
Hotel manager Linda Neville planned a thoughtful three-course meal
organising oysters and prawns as an appetiser for the seafood-loving couple
Their table was set with China plates that would have been used at the hotel during their wedding night
Ms Neville said the setting attracted attention from others in the hotel
including from friends of Doug and Lorraine
people kept coming up to the table and asking their advice on 60 years of marriage,” she said
there was this one girl I heard say to them ‘I’ve got this guy
was decorated with rose petals and stocked with sweets and champagne
Ms Neville said she asked the Rosenows if they’d like to have their beds adjoined
and they had pushed their beds together,” she said
Ms Neville said she was inspired to treat the couple due to their history with the venue
how many people have the opportunity to go back to the place they spent their wedding night?” she said
“But I suppose the motivation was just to do something really nice and special for them
two cars have collided in the Yarrawonga area because one driver failed to give way
A 79-year-old Yarrawonga woman was issued a penalty notice for failing to give way and will have her license reviewed after she caused a two car collision on the Murray Valley Highway near Aldi on Friday morning
The woman was attempting to turn right and collided with the other car
Both drivers were taken to Wangaratta A&E for precautions but are not believed to have suffered any injuries
Both vehicles had to be towed from the scene
Victoria Police have requested to have a meeting with the Department of Transport and Planning in relation to safety issues surrounding this busy intersection
A vehicle has slammed into a group of pedestrians in the southwestern German city of Stuttgart
killing one person and injuring several others
but Stuttgart police said on X there was "currently no evidence of an attack or a deliberate act" and that all the information so far indicates it was a "tragic traffic accident"
The incident happened on Friday at an above-ground subway stop in downtown Stuttgart
"Five people were slightly injured and three seriously injured in the accident
a 46-year-old woman has since succumbed to her injuries in the hospital," police said hours after the accident
and the area was cordoned off as emergency responders
police and forensic specialists examined the scene
and subway service through the area was suspended
Photos from the scene showed plastic gloves
blankets and bags scattered on the ground near the SUV
Cobram Estate has grown into one of Australia's best-known brands
with a scale of production that's second to none on the international market
it's their journey to become one of the most sustainable extra virgin olive oil producers – that truly sets it apart
So how is it that Cobram Estate has been able to develop a range of high-quality products
with less than one per cent of their operational outputs ending up in landfill
And how has it managed to become the #8 olive oil brand in the competitive US market
Justin Pilgrim tell us how in making their business better
they are also changing our world so we can all thrive in a more sustainable future
Inspired thinking is at the heart of Cobram Estate
Seeing the success of the olive oil industry in Argentina
co-founders Rob McGavin and Paul Riordon matched their agricultural knowledge with their understanding of Australia's climate
while also seeing the gap in the local market for high quality
where they could have followed the approach of most of the world's olive growers with small individually managed groves – in Italy
groves are on average just one hectare – Cobram Estate looked at the competitive advantage of growing and harvesting olives at scale
"One of our biggest competitive advantages has been the possibility of developing a very efficient production model
in a fully vertically integrated way at scale," says Leandro
Cobram Estate has "mesh(ed) all that together into a single fully vertical integrated company where we manage every step."
And while this scale has delivered considerable efficiencies
it has also helped drive demonstrable improvements in sustainability practices
the learnings of which the team at Cobram Estate are happy to share with others
Market-leading farming practices which deliver lasting positive impacts on their local environment could have been the main sustainability focus for Cobram Estate
they knew that putting sustainability at the centre of their business strategy would also enable commercial returns which deliver increased shareholder value
Taking a full 360-degree view of sustainability through the combined focus on people
are considered and managed at an organisational level
This rounded view also informs longer-term investment decisions.
"Our beginning of the journey was mainly on the responsible and efficient use of the natural resources
It was about making sure that we make the most out of the water that we had
making the most out of every unit of fertiliser that we applied," says Leandro
"Delivering the yields without the quality wasn't necessarily going to work
So we then had a strong focus on maximising the return on the resources that we had."
By taking a view of sustainability as a core driver of business success
Cobram Estate has been able to turn what could have been very costly waste by-products into viable
Less than half a per cent of operational outputs from the olive groves and production end up in landfill – a phenomenal feat which saw them awarded as an AFR Sustainability Leader (in the Agriculture category) for three years in a row from 2022 to 2024
Justin explains: "Having waste that's just sitting there
it's in our interest to try to find some alternative for it
So there's just been a natural willingness to try
invest in technologies that can make something of the challenges."
you're either having to pay to manage it or it becomes an environmental problem
the incentives have been there to find alternative solutions and we've been fortunate that there are a range of uses with all the by-products that we've been able to capitalise on."
"Those value-add opportunities are either through developing new commercial products and revenue streams or trying to maintain a circular economy within our farming system to return by-products into our groves."
As the leading olive oil producer in Australia
Cobram Estate knew that their integrated approach and world-class knowledge
With climates on the west coast of the USA similar to ideal olive growing conditions in Australia
Cobram Estate seized the opportunity to expand its footprint globally
Cobram Estate is now the #8 brand in the US market
But with an eye to longer-term performance
they are willing to take their time to ensure this investment pays longer-term dividends
Cobram Estate's leaders have been willing to work with outside advisors to achieve its vision
Leandro was one of the very first external advisors brought on board: "I was working as a researcher in the olive industry in Argentina at that time
I got to meet Rob McGavin and Paul Riordon – we certainly agreed in a lot of our views about what a modern olive development and modern olive industry would require
And we continued the exchange of ideas until we thought it was an even better idea that I was going to join them here in Australia
And perhaps initially I thought it was going to be a two- or three-year working experience
So what is it that Cobram Estate looks for when building and sustaining long-term relationships with key suppliers and advisors
"I think working with people that share your own values is hugely important… you know if you share the same values you tend to have that additional level of trust and confidence that naturally will also make things easier and easier and more efficient as well."
An ever-growing market that continues to want to consume high-quality
healthy olive oil means "the future is bright"
Leandro knows this will require continuous focus
determination and investment: "It requires a lot of effort
a lot of on-ground work and really good people
which at the end of the day is all what it comes down to with businesses."
As Justin remarks "25 years of refining practices and improvements have resulted in a lot of sustainability actions."
"What are these emerging risks that we need to respond to
What are the value creation opportunities that we need to be exploring
Some people might think it's just environmental sustainability – having those conversations and making people understand
sustainability is relevant to me and the business has been really beneficial." And it is this business approach
that will no doubt continue to drive the success of Cobram Estate
Leandro concludes: "It has been a great journey and we're really grateful you know for all those that supported us in that process."
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Residents had the chance to raise their concerns over crime and safety at a community safety forum in Cobram.
At least 20 community members met with representatives from Victoria Police and Moira Shire Council, including Cobram police unit Senior Sergeant Nathan Ractliffe, on Tuesday, March 18.
Sen Sergeant Ractliffe said it was encouraging to see as many community members taking part in discussions.
“We were very pleased with the response,” he said.
“Police can’t be everywhere, every time, and we’re relying on the community to be our eyes and ears to provide us with information so we can assist with community safety and reducing crime.”
Several issues figured prominently on the night:
Discussions about the police consisted of two components: the need for a 24-hour police service, and the need to have a station fit for purpose.
The chances of the Moira Shire seeing a 24-hour police service in the next year were ‘pretty good’ according to Sen Sergeant Ractliffe.
“We’d love to see a 24-hour police station and service in Moira.
“We are working towards having a 24-hour police response.
“We’re going through the industrial relations and things like that so it can occur.”
On May 1, the Cobram police unit will hold a neighbourhood police forum to cover local drug-related crime, family violence and other matters at the Cobram Civic Centre.
Les Kiss already has the Wallabies job, but he can show why in a crucial three-game away stretch for the Queensland Reds that carries huge Super Rugby Pacific title implications.
The injury-hit squad play Fijian Drua in Suva on Saturday, followed by road trips to Sydney and Canberra to face their Australian rivals.
A top-four finish comes with a home quarter-final, while a top-two finish - and potentially a home run all the way to the title - is the desirable but unlikely outcome given the Crusaders and Chiefs are 10 points clear of Kiss's side in equal first.
Currently fourth, two points behind the ACT Brumbies but with a game in hand, the Reds have a five-point buffer on the fifth-placed Hurricanes, who the Reds host in the penultimate round.
Kiss was confirmed as the next Wallabies coach on Wednesday, set to replace Joe Schmidt at the conclusion of next year's Super Rugby season.
He has got the Reds to this point despite a revolving door in his medical room, in which seven capped Wallabies currently reside.
Liam Wright (shoulder), Matt Faessler (hamstring) and Josh Flook (hamstring) are all unlikely to play again this season, although utility back Filipo Daugunu and inspirational No.8 and Wallabies skipper Harry Wilson are due to return before finals.
"We all do, absolutely," Queensland Rugby Union chief executive David Hanham said of the desire to win a title before Kiss departs.
"I'd love to see Harry back, Filipo back. They're critical to a finals campaign, but ... I reckon we're in a strong position.
"Previous seasons, let's be honest, we would have struggled with that lack of depth and closing out games.
"One of Les's philosophies right at the beginning was closing the gap (between the club's academy and top-end talent).
"Tim Ryan's an example, Dre Pakeho and Massimo De Lutiis this year ... there's a whole list.
"That's starting to show, because we've needed it with the attrition of players."
Kiss has strategically opted to bench in-form flyhalf Tom Lynagh and place his faith in Harry McLaughlin-Phillips in Suva. He will also rotate his tight five and bring in locks Ryan Smith and Angus Blyth to start.
"It's a tricky game (the Drua) for every team ... also a challenge the week after, but Les hasn't let those matters get into the heads of players," Hanham said.
"There's a level of confidence and stability.
"(We were) playing against All Blacks (in the Blues team last week) and we weren't talking about the differential in their skill versus ours.
"It's a bit like what the Crusaders did - no matter who left, someone comes in and you go, 'Oh geez, I didn't realise he was so good'.
CNN and the BBC World Service which is copyright and cannot be reproduced
AEST = Australian Eastern Standard Time which is 10 hours ahead of GMT (Greenwich Mean Time)
Cobram police have arrested a man after intercepting a Toyota Camry near Cobram’s CBD
April 24 officers on patrol from the Cobram Police Unit saw a gold Camry driving erratically on Station St
the officers breathalysed the driver and determined that alcohol was present in his system
The man was also unable to produce a licence
He was then transferred to the Cobram Police Station for a further breath test
returning a blood alcohol content of 0.163
The driver was charged with a number of offences including drink-driving
He was bailed to appear at Cobram Magistrates' Court on July 22
The Toyota Camry was also impounded for 30 days at a cost of $1500 to the man
Tocumwal’s importance as a World War II base for the US and Australian Air Force was highlighted at Anzac Day services in the local area on Friday
were each treated to a flyover by pilots from the Tocumwal Aerodrome
Known as McIntyre Field during World War II
the Tocumwal Aerodrome played a role as critical as a US base
The 60th Anniversary of the lowering of the RAAF Ensign was recognised in October 2020
While much of the WWII infrastructure has disappeared
a lot of the history has been collected and is displayed at the new Tocumwal Aviation Museum
Cobram has welcomed a brand-new Coles supermarket to the community
Barely a cloud was in sight on the morning of Wednesday
as a crowd of eager shoppers waited outside the doors of the new shopping precinct
the doors to the Coles Cobram Precinct opened to customers for the very first time
state member for Ovens Valley Tim McCurdy welcomed the project and said it was very exciting for the Cobram-Barooga community
it’s great to see genuine competition for food in Cobram to get our groceries locally,” Mr McCurdy said
“For Coles to invest in small regional communities like Cobram is just terrific.”
He said it was one thing for large businesses to invest in major cities across Australia
but another thing for them to make sure that people in regional areas aren’t left behind
“Businesses like Coles have jobs right across the sector,” Mr McCurdy said
“From people who want to work part-time stacking shelves
to managers and senior managers and regional managers
began construction on the precinct about twelve months ago
Managing Director of Troon Group Tom McInerney said the precinct will create another option for shoppers’ grocery bills and convenience
He said he thought it was absolutely critical for shoppers in regional Victoria to have a choice of where they shop
“It’s all about choice,” Mr McInerney said
“Great car parking is a big thing - getting able to get in and out under shade sales
referring to the mostly shaded car park at the precinct
Cobram residents Jeff Jackel and Jan Withers were a part of the crowd which waited outside the store for its doors to open
It’s been great to see it come to fruition,” Mr Jackel said
The new Coles Cobram Precinct will be home to several stores alongside Coles and Liquorland
What makes regional Victoria a prime location for olive production
We speak with Cobram Estate Olives’ Joint CEO Leandro Ravetti to find out
Regional Victoria is home to a wide range of produce that is locally farmed and processed
agriculture is a way of life for many and provides valuable employment across the state
This includes olive farming and production which plays an important part in regional Victoria’s food and fibre story
Victoria is the largest producer of olives in Australia
with projects like Cobram Estate Olives powering the market forward
Despite being thousands of kilometres away from the Mediterranean – a key location in the international olive oil trade – Victoria also contains the right environment to produce tens of thousands of tonnes of olives each year
there are three major pillars that make regional Victoria such an ideal location to produce olive oil
Victoria has great environmental conditions and a fantastic climate for olive production,' Leandro says
'Second is water availability for maximum productivity and third is access to great people who are passionate about the work that they do.'
Cobram Estate’s 120-strong workforce operates across sites in Lara
and Wemen to produce olive oil and other olive-related products
exporting to 17 countries across the globe
Cobram Estate remains Australia’s largest olive grower
processor and marketer listed on the Australian Securities Exchange
It also farms olive groves in the United States
In 2023 the company expanded its operations in Boort with an olive mill extension backed by Victorian Government support
Cobram Estate will be able to process up to 100,000 tonnes of olives per season at the Boort mill when fully developed
This will make the Boort mill the largest in the Southern Hemisphere
'We used the old mill from 2002 to 2022,' Leandro says
and it has already successfully run through subsequent harvest seasons.'
the new mill has energy efficient decanters that can separate the oil from the pulp of the fruit more efficiently and consume less energy
This is making Boort more productive and efficient than ever before
Up to 30 jobs will be created as a result of the Boort mill upgrade
and Leandro says regional Victoria has very passionate people willing to work across the Cobram Estate’s sites
'Boort offers great farmland and access to water,' Leandro says
'Being located in Boort means we can employ people who are close to town and happy to live near the site.'
'More fruit brings bigger harvest seasons meaning Cobram Estate will continue to hire more part time workers between April and June
As we have a great business relationship with many of the fantastic accommodation and hospitality businesses in town
having the same employee return year after year makes our job a lot easier.'
minimising waste is a major part of any operation’s success
resulting in olive by products including pomace
Cobram Estate is finding new ways to use olive by-products in sustainable and creative ways at both of its milling sites
The company dries and conditions leftover pulp after the extraction of olive oil
using it for a wide range of products that are largely sold business to business
Cobram Estate is also exploring the use of olive by-products as stockfeed and soil conditioner
'The olive pit has fantastic value as a source of renewable energy and we use that internally to replace any gas requirements as well as we supply any excess to external partners such as cogeneration plants
regional hospitals and greenhouses throughout Victoria,' Leandro says
Cobram Estate’s extra virgin olive oils are available in supermarkets across Australia and via its website: Cobram Estate
We acknowledge the Traditional Aboriginal Owners of Country throughout Victoria and pay our respects to them
We pay our respects to their Elders past and present and future Traditional Owners
We respect and welcome people of all backgrounds
there were highs and lows across the district
The Courier was there to capture the best and the worst of it all
The Katamatite Rodeo looked set to return the following week
while former Cobram resident James Parr won the GQ model of the year title for his work modelling for fashion brands like Boss and Calvin Klein
Kebab Kingz opened on Punt Rd earlier in December 2023
Father John Corcoran was gifted an orange Mitsubishi ASX GSR by De Maria Motors at his retirement bash earlier in December
Year 6 students at Cobram Anglican Grammar School celebrated their next step to secondary school
Moira Shire Council received a state government grant of up to $130,000 to improve road safety
Katamatite export Sam Wright was appointed to coach the Collingwood women’s team in the AFLW
Locals beat the summer heat with a dip in the Murray
Charlie Holt celebrated his 100th birthday with his 13 grandchildren at the Sporties Club
with walls damaged and some equipment destroyed
A 14-year-old Cobram boy was charged for allegedly assaulting Santa Claus on Saturday
the Katamatite Rodeo was declared a huge success
while the fixture for the Picola and District Football Netball League was released
Barooga trumped Cobram in round 10 of the Murray Valley Cricket Association
Cobram narrowly avoided the flooding that hit neighbouring towns like Rochester
Cobram Community House’s Chatty Cafe was set to reopen on January 25
Police appealed for information regarding a man seen allegedly wielding a knife in Cobram earlier in the month
The Courier asked its Facebook followers whether Australia Day should be moved to another date or not
Cobram trounced rivals Deniliquin in round 11 of the Murray Valley Cricket Association
Women in Turf volunteers took to the greens at the Cobram Barooga Golf Club as the Webex Player Series Murray River tournament loomed
The Tocumwal Railway Heritage Museum celebrated the history of railways during World War II
Cobram and district geared up to mark Australia Day
Justin Sullivan stepped into the role of NCN Health chief executive officer on an interim basis after Jacque Phillips resigned
Bedecked in AC/DC shirts and the national flag
a group of protestors assembled outside Cobram Woolworths
demanding to know why the supermarket chain no longer stocked Australia Day products
At least 120 local youngsters learned water safety skills at Thompsons Beach as part of Moira Shire Council’s Bush Nippers Program
Staff at NCN Health and residents prepared to raise funds for the Australian charity
14-year-old Cameron Sneddon topped the junior male category at the Albury-Wodonga Triathlon Club mini-triathlon on January 14
with Kepler Lukies tucking away seven wickets from the riverside rivals
Cobram arts group Arts for All set its eyes on placing a mural on the walls of the amenities block in Mivo Park
Moira Shire Council administrator Suzanna Sheed was recognised for her services to Victoria as a Member of the Order of Australia (OAM)
A quartet of CSC students in Cooper Adkins
Ethan Brooks and Imogen Brooks competed in the Cows Create Careers dairy race
The Cobram and District Toy Library relocated to the old train station office in Cobram’s Federation Park
Fourteen of Australia’s newest citizens from around the world were inducted at the Cobram Civic Centre as part of the shire’s Australia Day activities
Katamatite Tigers appointed former Mulwala forward Dylan Flanagan as assistant coach alongside James Hazelman
who was named head coach for the 2024 season
The Numurkah Lawn Tennis Club marked its 93rd Annual Tennis Tournament over the weekend
Katamatite cricket prospect Kepler Lukies helped his Northern Rivers outfit cruise to victory in the final of the Victorian Country Cricket League under-18 competition
Resident Marj Gow appealed for assistance after leaving a box of family heirlooms at PALS Op Shop in Cobram
Junior students marked their first day of school across the district
The CFA called for entries in the annual CFA/VFBV State Firefighter Championships at Mooroopna Recreation Reserve
Swashbuckling author Susea Spray prepared to visit the Cobram library the following week
Residents at Cobram’s Irving House welcomed a visit by Diego and Pedro the miniature donkeys
the Australian Beach Volleyball Tour arrived at Thompsons Beach for the Cobram Barooga Classic
Cobram Community House marked its inaugural Garden to Plate seasonal cooking class
while Cobram Anglican Grammar School welcomed the newest addition to its staff in Yarrawonga local Georgia Nicholson
Cobram’s Florist and Gifts owner Jackyn Tickell prepared for Valentine’s Day
The 2023 Year 12 cohort celebrated its graduation
Angela Peris spoke to The Courier of her plans to open a glamping retreat near Berrigan
Barooga Football Netball Club called for expressions of interests from women considering playing the national code
the Cobram Barooga Classic junior volleyball competition saw young stars travel from across the nation to go head-to-head
the community banded together with local SES units to repair storm damage to buildings like the Historical Society Log Cabin
At least 32 CFA units battled a blaze outside Koonoomoo
Cobram resident Marj Gow had her box of missing jewellery returned to her by another resident
received $6000 in grant funding from the Victorian Government for their bush kinder programs
Matthew Morgan was appointed as Chief Executive Officer of Moira Shire Council for a full-time term of four years
Cobram Secondary College students Paulie Degei
Alex Krause and Codi Bowden were selected for the Murray Bushrangers Football Club
Local barber Frank Gattuso reflected on 50 years of time in his trade
Jai Draper and Teresa Jarred signed up to the SES Cobram unit
Moira Shire geared up for a concert by Kyabram-born soprano Charlottee Goode
Cobram Highway Patrol sergeant Bill Dockrey spoke out over the number of road fatalities during 2023
one of the worst years on record for road trauma in the region
New school captains were announced at Strathmerton Primary School
Cobram’s Hungie Fangs Bakery took out six awards at the Victorian Baking Show
while the Cobram Men’s Shed showed its support for the Love Your Sister gala to be held in April by crafting 36 candleholders
Some readers of The Courier railed against plans by Moira Shire Council to change its bin collection roster under state government requirements
Twelve CFA units responded to a grass and scrub fire outside Katamatite on February 29
the Rotary Club of Numurkah prepared to host the 44th annual Arts and Craft Exhibition at the Numurkah Town Hall in March
OAM members were honoured by administrators at a meeting of Moira Shire Council administrators
Yarrawonga local Nikita Carroll prepared to take to the water in the Paddle NSW Marathon State Championships in Canberra later in the week
Cobram A-Grade severed Nathalia’s winning streak to take the win in the semi-final of the Murray Valley Cricket Association
the Boosey Creek Tavern reopened as the Boosey Creek Tavern and Tin Shed Bistro under new owners Shane Cridland and Jamie Noonan
Women from across the shire celebrated International Women’s Day with films and scones
and Dutch Thunder Wildlife Rescue ran a successful Clean-Up Australia Day event along River Rd in Cobram
Cobram Secondary College prepared to open its in-house childcare centre
Cobram’s Ben Coghill and Jacob Hore were inducted as recruits as part of CitiPower’s and Powercor’s largest intake of apprenticeships in a decade
Young science teacher at Cobram Seocndary College
received the 2023 Public Education Foundation’s Teachers Health Early Career Scholarship
Alarm bells rang over numbers in the Cobram Agricultural Socety’s committee
Cobram took home the flag in the grand final of the Murray Valley Cricket Association
beating rival Barooga 9-219 to their NSW counterpart’s 10-56
Cobram Lawn Bowls Club member Kerry Baldacchino strapped up to represent the Murray and Goulburn Murray areas at the Victorian State Championships in April
Volunteers and staff assembled at the SES Cobram unit to take part in the Women in Rescue Day on Saturday
The second Baala Creek Festival went off with a bang in Numurkah
while Andrew Maclean opened up about plans for Nathalia’s first Cars and Coffee event to be held later in April
Close friends Erin Higgins and Julie Cameron organised a Melanoma March to be held at Kennedy Park in Cobram later in the month
local swimmer Meriam Nelson notched a place at the School Sport Victoria State Swimming Championships
kayaker Nikita Carroll took home gold at the Paddle NSW Marathon State Championships in Canberra earlier in the month
beating her personal best time in the three-kilometre short course event
While the Cobram Roar’s division one men’s side started its season by drawing 2-2 with Albury-Wodonga
At the recent CFA/VFBV State Firefighter Championships at Mooroopna Reserve
two Strathmerton teams competed under the eye of firefighting veteran Bill Logie
the new NCN Health Cobram Urgent Care Centre prepared to open later in the week
Cobram Anglican Grammar School announced a new trade centre was on its way to the school grounds
with over $11,000 raised to support cancer research
Lauren Sneddon prepared to compete at the Target Rifle Australia National Championships in the junior division in Brisbane over Easter
Cobram Roar’s division one women’s side went down 1-0 to Melrose FC
while the men drew neck and neck with their Melrose FC counterparts 4-4
Locals flocked from far and wide to drink in the sights at the Easter River Beaches Festival over the festive weekend
The CFA Cobram Unit raised $10,772 during its Good Friday Appeal
while Cobram photographer Jawid Iqbal Anwar shared his story with The Courier
Arts for All teamed up with the Cobram Men’s Shed to craft larger-than-life Easter bunnies using recycled timber
students Kasey Caldow and Emily Stone competed in The Scots School Albury Equestrian Interschool Challenge 2024
Round one of the Murray Netball League took off
with Cobram snatching the win by 13 points over its Barooga counterpart
the Tigers secured a 47-point win over Barooga in the first round of the season
The Cobram Football Club held its 1974 and 1984 premiership reunions
with the event deemed a success by organisers
The question of a 24-hour police station in Cobram was raised by residents concerned over crime in the community
The Cobram community celebrated Cultural Diversity Week in style at St Joseph’s Catholic Church
a 44-year-old man was charged for allegedly lighting more than 30 fires in bushland near Ulupna Island at Barmah National Park
Jim Sutton made the most of his golden years to restore a beloved Massey-Harris 744 tractor
The NCN Health Cobram Urgent Care Centre opened on Wednesday
Koonoomoo handyman William Hoyle took home two gold medals at the Sydney Royal Easter Show Woodchopping Competition
The Cobram division one women’s team gave Wodonga a tough welcome to division one soccer with a 7-0 victory
Fifteen-year-old Cobram student Emily Davies couldn’t wait to return home to volunteer at Irvin House
Cobram resident and veteran Robert Brown reflected on his time serving in the Vietnam War following his conscription in 1965
found himself in the midst of the fray on Easter Saturday after at least 30 fires were allegedly lit nearby
the inaugural Move Moira Get Active kicked off to enable greater access to skateboarding for those with a disability
The Cobram Civic Centre hosted the second Moira Shire Achiever Awards
where Tungamah resident Debbie Hayes received the Moira Shire Star Achiever of the Year Award
The Cobram Social Sequence Dancing group called for expressions of interest
The Koonoomoo Big Strawberry took on a new look for a good cause
Cobram Secondary College hosted its annual ANZAC ceremony
Moira Shire Council administrator Suzanna Sheed was appointed chair of the Goulburn Valley Libraries board
The main street of Nathalia was the scene of the inaugural Cars and Coffee event
The community reflected on the 12 months following a horror collision at the Murray Valley Hwy-Labuan Rd intersection
The Roar women took down rivals Twin City at Wodonga 3-0
while the division one men secured a 4-1 victory over their Twin City counterparts
Cobram fell to southern rivals Congupna 52-22
A man faced court after a woman was found dead in her Cobram home in April
Cobram and district remembered the fallen on Anzac Day
Rick and Ben Ramadge finished their mammoth cycle from Melbourne to Cobram as part of their efforts to raise money and awareness of breast cancer
Barooga’s Youth Girls squad took an impressive win over their Nathalia counterparts
leaving no doubt as to their club’s prospects
Picola United and Strathmerton enjoyed wins across round five of the Picola and District Football League
Melissa Crisafulli offered an array of gifts and special meals
National Road Safety Week kicked off across Victoria
while community members spoke and marched in Cobram’s Federation Park against gender-based violence
A man from Benalla was airlifted to Melbourne following a collision at the intersection of Cobram-South and Benalla-Tocumwal Rds
The Cobram and District Toy Library opened doors at its new location at Cobram’s Federation Park
Barooga’s Casey Chandler went undefeated at the Gold Australia Victorian Women’s Division One Pennant in Melbourne
Cobram SES Unit’s Luke Herezo steps up to the unit controller role
Police investigated a string of burglaries in Cobram and Numurkah earlier in the month
Ambience Bakery backed local volunteers during National Volunteer Week
Students from across the district tried their hands at clay target shooting
both Cobram and Barooga fell to their opponents in the netball
while Moama trumped Barooga and Cobram felt defeat at the hands of Deniliquin
The Cobram and District Garden Club celebrated its 30th birthday with flowers and cake
while the CG&C Group welcomed some new kit in a robotic Zeman steel beam assembler
In round seven of the Murray Football League
Cobram secured a 26-point win over its Tongala opponents
while Barooga tasted victory against Echuca
The Bullanginya Dreaming Light Show opened
New citizens were officially welcomed at an Australia Day ceremony at Cobram Civic Centre
Residents united with State Member for Shepparton Kim O’Keeffe to raise concerns over the condition of Lake Numurkah
Cobram cycling legend Raymond Jarratt was recognised by Australian Cycling for his service and achievements in competitive cycling
Local woman Taylor Chisholm spoke up about her struggle to secure affordable housing for herself and her family
leaving behind his beloved family and an immigrant success story
A Strathmerton farmer was shocked to find one his cows had given birth to a two-headed calf
John Tanner stepped down as Moira Shire Council chief executive officer
while five locals were recognised for their volunteering efforts during Volunteer Week celebrations
while the Tigers edged into the top four on the Murray Football League ladder with a win over Rumbalara
Malcolm Bruce Padgett received the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) for his fundraising work for bowel cancer research
Award-winning Cobram author Clancy Tucker prepared to release his latest novel in the ‘Kick Ass Tyler’ series
Dr Mark Ashcroft was appointed CEO of NCN Health
Kindergarteners at Bluebird Kindergarten Cobram answered the call of the wild at Thompsons Beach
Community River Arts launched with a Mad Hatter’s Tea Party at the Barooga Community Hall
The junction of Labuan Rd and the Goulburn Valley Hwy was allocated $870,000 by the Federal Government for safety upgrades
the Cobram Roarettes toppled Twin City 6-0 while their division one men counterparts suffered defeat
Theatre services at NCN Health were transferred from Cobram to the Numurkah campus
Seven people were charged after a brawl broke out in the early morning outside a business in Katamatite
Cobram farmer Raymond Bauer was shocked to excavate a 17kg sweet potato from his vegetable patch
the Cobram Tigers notched a one-point win over reigning premier Mulwala
Four people have been charged with drug and weapon offences
following an ongoing investigation into the supply of drugs in the Southern Riverina
Officers attached to Murray River Police District established Strike Force Bodallin last month to investigate the supply and distribution of prohibited drugs
Police allege a number of people have been involved in the supply of prohibited drugs – believed to be methylamphetamine – in the Tocumwal
Simultaneous search warrants were executed at four properties yesterday morning
with the assistance from State Crime Command’s Raptor Squad
The younger woman was charged with 78 drug and weapon related offences
and “knowingly/recklessly direct criminal group assist crime”
The three others were all charged with “participate criminal group”
The older woman faces five charges relating to drugs
the younger man was charged with 20 drug and weapon related offences
and the older man has three drug related charges
The two women are due to face Deniliquin court on May 13
and the 43 year-old man is to appear at Finley court on May 27
A court date for the younger man has not been made available at this time
Players from across Victoria will descend on the district this weekend for the 100th Cobram Labour Day Tournament
Cobram Lawn Tennis Club vice-president Matthew Ross-Soden said it will be a great chance for the community to come and watch the action
“100 years is a fantastic milestone for our small club and something we’re extremely proud of,” he said
“There’s going to be plenty of great tennis to watch over the three days
The tournament has featured players who went on to achieve fame in the sport
4 professional tennis player and coach Pat Cash
Sam Dowler will return to defend his eight tournament titles
Guests will have a variety of food and drink options to choose from
with the club running its canteen and barbecue
Matches kick off at 7.45am and end around 7pm each day
The tournament draw will be available at the club’s noticeboard by Thursday
The event is supported by many Melbourne-based clubs
including Frankston’s Bruce Park Tennis Club
which is fielding at least 50 players this year
Find out more by at https://tinyurl.com/85hy8d4m
A speeding passenger bus has slammed into a row of vehicles lined up at a highway toll booth in the northern Philippines
More than two dozen others were injured in the multiple-vehicle collision in Tarlac city
was taken into custody and initially told investigators that he dozed off shortly before the crash
which was lined up with three other vehicles at the toll booth
which was pinned between the wayward bus from behind and another car in front
A couple died in a car in the collisions that happened about midday in the scorching summer heat
adding that many of the injured were bus passengers
Vehicular accidents are common in the Philippines because of poor enforcement of safety and traffic regulations
Shakespeare once wrote a sonnet about immortalising his loved one in ‘eternal lines’
a lifetime Cobramite has received the same treatment
and fellow Freemasons of Trevor Hocking gathered at the Cobram Cinema for the official naming ceremony of the Trevor Hocking Room
shared between Cobram Freemasons and Cobram Youth Group
has for many years provided a space for community groups
In a testament to Mr Hocking’s life-long devotion to his community
it will continue to be a place dedicated to Cobram
played a pivotal role on behalf of the Cobram Freemasons to negotiate a 45-year lease of the building and land with the Cobram Youth Group in 2015
Since the project commenced in 2017, Mr Hocking has been chairman of the Cobram Community Cinema Committee
“I couldn’t think of a better person to have the room named after,” Mr Morey said
“He deserves this recognition not only for his service to Freemasonry
“I think people will see that name for a long time and be aware of the contribution he’s made to the community
Mr Morey spoke highly of Mr Hocking’s personal qualities
and he can come up with very sensible decision-making,” he said
“He’s got a real ability to keep things calm.”
Mr Hocking’s family was pleased with how the ceremony went
“It’s going to be a well-used room,” he said
“Everyone will be able to acknowledge the things that Trevor has done for Cobram.”
This year’s list of Anzac Day services across the district promises time for reflection and remembrance for the many people who made the ultimate sacrifice
5.55am: dawn service begins at the War Memorial on the corner of Punt Rd and William St
followed from 6.30am by a Gunfire Breakfast for a gold coin donation at the Cobram Civic Centre
9.15am: assembly in Federation Park for an Anzac march beginning at 9.30am
followed by a commemorative service at 10am
Refreshments at the Civic Centre for a gold coin donation after the march at Federation Park
Two-up will be held at the Barooga Sporties and the Grand Central Hotel at 2pm
Noon: commemorative service at the entrance to Sporties Barooga
11am: commemorative service at the Police Paddock on Foy St
8.45am: assembly at the Strathmerton Fire Station for a 9am march to the Strathmerton Hall
9.30am: commemorative service at the Strathmerton Hall
including a flyover by Tocumwal Aviation and a light horse brigade
6am: dawn service at the Tocumwal RSL on 77 Deniliquin St
11am: Anzac Day service at the Tocumwal RSL
with march formation at the Big Fish at 10.45am
5.50am: dawn service at the cenotaph on Melville St
10.20am: march beginning from the post office at Newman Square
up Melville St followed by an 10.50am service at the cenotaph on Melville St
April 24 at the Pioneers Lodge Home at 11am and another at the Kurinya Aged Care Home at 2pm
April 27 at the Marungi Memorial Park on Labuan Rd
One of the biggest days for netball in Cobram-Barooga came to a head on Good Friday
as the Hawks vied for cross-border supremacy over the Tigers in round three of the MFNL
Cobram went down to a tidy Barooga outfit by a seven-point margin (32-25)
After a tumultuous week for the Cobram A-grade side
with coach Kate Bird stepping down and coaching director Leah Nish and Carlie Ross-Soden sharing the role
the result belied strong defensive and mid-court efforts to transition the ball effectively
Player of the match went to skipper Meg Denson
while the Grainstore - Top Pub award went to Leah Nish
It was a different story in B-grade action
which saw the Tigers run riot over Barooga
finishing with a 23-point lead at full-time (27-50)
A versatile Cobram outfit gained momentum with each quarter
matched only by sharp shooting and defensive pressure
defeating their Hawks counterparts 32-46 in a game that
both the Barooga and Cobram outfits battled it out in a tight contest that saw the Tigers eventually take the win by 14 points
the C-reserve match saw the Tigers take a clear victory over their Barooga counterparts despite a slow start in the first quarter
A Charlotte Cherry debut beefed up the talent
leading to a 25-point margin (46-21) by the Tigers at the end of the final quarter
The tournament marks the third round on the 2024/25 Tour and will showcase men’s and women’s fields full of international talent
Tokyo Olympic silver medallist Taliqua Clancy has won 15 of her 17 events on the Tour
Clancy returned to the Tour at Canberra earlier this month with the pair combining to take out the title
Milutinovic claimed the 2024 with Stefie Fejes
who is chasing a third straight victory at Cobram after also scoring the 2022 title with Phoebe Bell
This week Fejes is playing with rising star Lara Maric
Clancy and Milutinovic enter the women’s draw as top seeds
while D’Artagnan Potts and Jack Pearse head the men’s field
Potts and Pearse produced one of the most eye-catching performances of 2024 when they won the Asian Championships
finishing in front of Australia’s two men’s teams which competed at the Paris Olympics
Making the result even more remarkable was that it was just their third tournament playing together
Potts and Pearse have brought their form into 2025 with victory in Canberra earlier this month in their first national tour event as a combination
Last year Pearse finished runner-up at Cobram with 2022 Commonwealth Games gold medallist Paul Burnett
Burnett will partner Luke Ryan this week with the pair named second seeds and if the draw holds true to form
they could face Pearse and Potts in the decider
The Cobram-Barooga Classic remains one of the most popular stops on the Australian Beach Volleyball Tour with the local community encouraged to get involved
a Free Family Fun Night will continue at Thompsons Beach with live music and food trucks alongside the high quality on-court action
“After flooding forced the 2023 event to be cancelled we were excited for the Cobram-Barooga Classic to return last year and it didn’t disappoint,” said Nicky Goldsworthy
Chairperson Cobram Barooga Business and Tourism
“Seeing Olympic and Commonwealth Games medallists bring their talent to the region is incredibly exciting and we’d love to see the community get out and be part of this great event
“Our Free Family Fun Night is open to everyone and we hope to then see the community checking out the action right throughout the weekend.”
Competition starts at 9am on Friday 28 February
The bronze and gold medal matches on Super Sunday will be streamed live on the AusVolley YouTube Channel from 11:30am AEDT
Click here for seedings and draw information.
Wildfires are raging on the outskirts of Jerusalem
forcing the relocation of communities and the closure of a main highway as Israel appeals for international assistance to help fight the blaze
TV footage showed fires burning along the main Route 1 Jerusalem to Tel Aviv highway and people abandoning cars and running away from the flames as thick smoke billowed over the surrounding hilltops
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Italy and Croatia were expected to send three firefighting planes to help extinguish the flames
Israeli media reported that 120 fire and rescue services had mobilised dozens of teams
aircraft and helicopters to try to contain the fires and the military said its search and rescue forces were assisting the operations
The fire broke out on Israel's Memorial Day for fallen soldiers and many ceremonies marking the eve of its Independence Day were cancelled
including the main state event due to be held in Jerusalem