Wagga Wagga City Council is set to deliver a new Active Travel link between the Exhibition Centre and Hammond Avenue to improve pedestrian and cyclist safety along Kooringal Road.
The project is set to include a 728-metre shared concrete path which will extend between the Exhibition Centre and Hammond Avenue, and a new pedestrian bridge over Marshalls Creek designed to provide a safer route for people walking and cycling in the area.
These works have been planned for some time and are a direct response to safety concerns around pedestrians currently using vehicle lanes to cross Marshalls Creek Bridge.
This project is funded by the NSW Government in partnership with Wagga Wagga City Council. NSW Government funding is courtesy of the Get NSW Active Program and will see $1,354,890 provided to bring this much needed project to life.
Director Economy, Business & Workforce Fiona Piltz confirmed that the grant – which was accepted by Wagga Wagga City Councillors at their Ordinary Meeting held on Monday 22 July 2024 – will cover the entire estimated construction cost, including project management, escalation and contingencies.
“Council has now awarded the construction tender for this project, with works set to begin in the coming months as the weather permits,” Ms Piltz said.
“Once complete, the Kooringal Road Link will form the first section of Stage 3 of the city’s Active Travel Plan.
“It will play a vital role in both expanding Wagga Wagga’s growing network of shared paths and providing safer, alternative transport options between suburbs.”
All articles from our website & appThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxInteractive Crosswords, Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueMr Francis started out as a butcher for Knights Meats in 1974 when he only 16 years old.
"I was one of their first apprentices in my first year," he said.
Even as a schoolboy Mr Francis knew he wanted to be working stock.
"In 74, I think it was a tough year in the stock industry and I thought I better get a trade," he said.
"I went to Knights and I enjoyed it and stayed on."
He left for a little while after that but inevitably came back to butchering.
"I worked in this shop here in about 1983-82 and I had milk runs then worked here on Saturday mornings and then I found out it was for sale," Mr Francis said.
Kooringal Butchery owner Anthony Francis was only 16 when he first got a taste of being a butcher. Picture by Taylor Dodge"A mate of mine who worked here, we bought it together, and we had that together for four years and then I brought him out.
"I was always pretty keen and knew I could do it. I was never scared. Hard work is about the main ingredient, if you can't do that you won't last long."
Come July, Mr Francis will officially step out of the business owner role, but his face won't be missed for at least another year and a half.
"Michael who works with me, he wants to come in now and take over," he said.
Michael Flanigan has worked for Mr Francis since 2001 and plans on taking over the business in July.
"I'm at the age now where I'm getting towards the end of my career so, I'll stay with him for 12 months or so, then I'll finish up," Mr Francis said.
Hard work, quality meat and good customer service is what Mr Francis credits for his successful business and it is his customers values the most.
"I enjoy the people mainly, I've made a lot of friends here," he said.
"A lot of my customers are my friends and you care about them and you make sure they get quality and they get the right product.
"The main reason for the success that we've had is the quality.
"I think that's been the biggest thing, the service and the quality."
Mr Francis works seven days a week and is well known for his Christmas ham.
"Our hams are a big part of our businesses, we cook and produce our own ham and that's been a huge part of our business," he said.
Similar to Mr Francis, Mr Flanigan was first introduced to the butchery world as a teenager.
"I left school and come in and had a bit of a trial run and I actually liked the blokes I was working with," he said.
"There was a bit of banter and fun with them and being a younger fella around an older crew was good."
Staying at Kooringal Butchery was a no-brainer for Mr Flanigan who knew he didn't want to leave, so when the opportunity to take over presented itself, he decided to put his hand up.
"I don't want to go anywhere else, basically," he said.
"I was just going to stay here as a worker anyway so I thought I'd see how I go being a business owner.
"I'm not going to change it, I like it the way it is, the customers do."
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Wagga Wagga City Council is proud to present KOORINGAL KICKS AND TRICKS, a youth and families community event, thanks to funding from the NSW Government as part of the Holiday Break Program for Summer 2024/2025.
Kicking off at 2 pm on Thursday 30 January 2025 at Henwood Park in Kooringal, there will be a multi-heat skate competition for young people aged 10 to 25 years, presented by Al’s Skate Co.
Council’s Youth and Community Development Officer Mel Fattore said there are loads of prizes to be won.
“Alongside the competition, young people, their friends, family and circle of care will have the opportunity to engage with valuable youth services based in Wagga Wagga along with fun and exciting activities like weaving, handball competitions, 3x3 basketball and giant lawn games,” Mel Fattore said.
“When the epic skate competition wraps up at 7pm, everyone is invited to stay around for a free family-friendly outdoor movie in partnership with Rural Outreach Counselling.
“With the cost of living pressures, Council wanted to support young people and families getting ready to return to the new school year, by finishing up the summer school holidays with one last fun, social and jam-packed giveaway event which provides much needed support to our community.”
Community partners Rapid Relief Team Wagga, St Vincent de Paul Riverina and The Smith Family, along with NSW Youth Justice, will be providing services such as free haircuts on the day, much-needed school resources and free food.
“We’ll have everything there for you, just bring a hat, sunscreen and positive vibes,” Mel said.
“Bring your friends and family to enjoy this community event in Kooringal. This is a great chance to chill out and have fun before the new school, TAFE or university year kicks off. Everyone is welcome.”
KOORINGAL KICKS AND TRICKS is a youth and community, alcohol and drug free event proudly presented and funded by City of Wagga Wagga, the NSW Government and Wagga Wagga Community Drug Action Team, with thanks to our community partners Rural Outreach Counselling, Rapid Food Relief, St Vincent de Paul and The Smith Family.
For further information please contact Council’s Youth and Community Development Officer on 1300 292 442.
Picture by Finn ColemanKooringal High School will receive $6 million in upgrades to expand high potential and gifted education
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Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueThe works will involve refurbishing three science labs and two arts and performance spaces
and installing a roof for wet weather play
The science labs and art rooms are part of the original school building from 1973
Kooringal High School principal Helen Schmetzer said the upgrades would transform the learning environment
"[It will provide] our students with inspiring spaces in which to explore their potential and develop their talents," she said
"We strongly believe that this will not only enrich their educational experience but also foster a strong sense of pride within our school community and public education in general
"We are excited to embark on this journey together and are looking forward to the benefits our students will reap as a result."
The upgrades to science labs aim to help spark student interest in science
and prepare students for future careers in high-demand industries
Kooringal's art rooms' refurbishment will include improvements to backstage areas
hanging space and the provision of acoustic insulation to common walls
Improvements to the sports courts will provide a functional
large-sized area for outdoor sports and play available during rainy weather
Upgrades to the library will replace aging and dark quiet rooms for HPGE students to use
Kooringal's technological and applied studies (TAS) acting head teacher
said the funding would assist in the further development and education of the school's HPGE students
"[The funding] allows our science and our sporting areas to be upgraded to further boost the great stuff that we do here," he said
Wagga MP Joe McGirr with Kooringal High School year 10 student Olivia Oakman
principal Helen Schmetzer and TAS teacher Austin Teakel
who are all excited for the upgrades coming to the school
Picture by Finn Coleman"As well as excel us as an educational leader within the region."
Mr Teakel said Kooringal students already had access to resources - equipment and technology - most other schools do not provide
"You would have to travel to a metropolitan area to experience these learning outcomes," he said
"We're really trying to help our high potential and gifted and talented students excel in their educational aspirations."
Year 12 Kooringal student Sarah Wiggins said the school already has programs that offer endless opportunities
Wagga MP Dr Joe McGirr said this was a much-needed investment at Kooringal High School
"These investments will ensure our local students are supported and will pay dividends for our community for years to come," he said
"Kooringal is well ahead of the curve on this
and the school itself has done some great work already
"We want all of our students to do their best
but it is important that when students have special abilities
we have a way of supporting them to achieve
it's a symbol for our community and other students."
Dr McGirr said it was clear Kooringal was a leader in the region in some of the work it's doing in supporting students before this grant
NSW Education and Early Learning Minister Prue Car said the government was committed to investing in vital school upgrades so every child could reach their full potential
"By making investments in our public schools
including our high potential and gifted students
are given the best opportunities," she said
I understand the importance of community news in highlighting stories that members of local communities care about - including events, businesses, sports and the people that make towns unique. Email me at finn.coleman@austcommunitymedia.com.au or call 0437 550 909
Night works commenced this week on the reconstruction of three sections of Kooringal Road, which is being undertaken as part of the ongoing project to upgrade the busy thoroughfare.
The works got underway on Monday (23 September) at the northern end of Kooringal Road, near the intersection with Hammond Avenue to just north of Marshalls Creek Bridge, before shifting to a 200-metre stretch south of Simkin Crescent.
It will be followed by further night works on a 200-metre stretch south of Simkin Crescent, and then the section between Fay Avenue and Vincent Road.
Wagga Wagga City Council’s Director Infrastructure Services Henry Pavitt said the upgrades will be carried out by contractors Complete Road Seal (CRS), who are undertaking a major package of works across the city during 2024.
“The night works on all three sections of Kooringal Road will involve removing the existing pavement by milling it out and replacing it with a new thick layer of asphalt at the base, with a 50mm wearing course on the surface,” Mr Pavitt said.
“The process is similar to the improvements carried out on the rehabilitation of Dobney Avenue and Pearson Street in 2022.
“This new asphalt mix will deliver a stronger road pavement that will be able to better carry the anticipated higher volume of traffic expected on this road over the next 20 years.
“More immediately, the result will be an improved surface that is safer and will improve the drive quality for the travelling public.”
The reconstruction works will take place between 6pm and 6am.
The first section to the highway will not be under full road closure but will be under traffic control. However, the road will be closed to through traffic during the night works on sections two and three (Simkin Crescent, Fay Avenue – Vincent Road).
Detours will be in place. Local traffic and residents will maintain access but should expect delays.
Once the base course has been completed on all three sections, the wearing course (pavement surface) will be applied, with the work expected to be carried out in October.
“We are undertaking these works at night in an effort to not only minimise inconvenience to road users and surrounding residents, but also for the safety of construction staff working on the site,” Mr Pavitt said.
“We apologise for any inconvenience this work may cause and appreciate the patience of residents and road users.
“The three phases of works are expected to take around three weeks to complete; however, given the nature of building roads, the timing of road works constantly changes due to external factors, particularly poor weather conditions, such as rain or thunderstorms.”
These improvements are part of a broader package of rehabilitation works, which has already delivered upgrades to the section of Kooringal Road between Plumpton Road and Lake Albert Road, Copland Street, Johnston Street, Church and Cross streets.
Similar works in Forsyth, Berry and Morgan streets are expected to take place later this year.
These upgrades are funded under the State Government’s Regional Emergency Road Repair fund, in partnership with Council.
Mobile variable message signs (VMS boards) will be in place to notify motorists of commencement dates and scheduled work times.
Find out more about the various packages of roadworks taking place in our Local Government Area,
** Please note: given the nature of building road, the timing of road works constantly changes due to external factors, particularly poor weather conditions (i.e. rain, thunderstorms), and site constraints.
Picture by Andrew PearsonA motorcyclist has been taken to hospital following a crash with a car
which closed a section of a busy Wagga road on Thursday evening
Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueEmergency services - including police
paramedics and fire crews - rushed to Lake Albert Road at Kooringal just after 6pm on April 17
A NSW Ambulance spokesperson said the rider
The spokesperson said the woman sustained a leg injury and was taken to Wagga Base Hospital for further treatment
The rider of a motorcycle is treated by paramedics on Lake Albert Road at Kooringal following a crash on April 17
PictureThe crash closed the road in both directions between the Stanley Street traffic lights and the Marconi Street intersection
Earlier on Thursday evening, two people - a man and woman both aged in their 70s, were injured in a two-car crash on Coolamon Road north of Wagga
On Thursday morning, two people were critically injured in a collision involving a truck and a car on the Cobb Highway near Moama
Double demerits are now in place for the Easter long weekend
with the annual police operation running from 12.01am on April 17 until 11.59pm on April 21
Andrew grew up in the western Riverina town of Hay and has strong ties to the region. He is a former DA journo who has a passion for breaking news and has covered everything from council and politics to crime and court.
Hundreds of young people and their families wrapped up the summer school holidays with an afternoon and evening of fun and exciting activities at KOORINGAL KICKS AND TRICKS at Henwood Park on Thursday 30 January.
The youth and families community event was presented by Wagga Wagga City Council, with local community partners, thanks to funding from the NSW Government as part of the Holiday Break Program for Summer 2024/2025.
One of the highlights of the event was the action-packed Skate Competition, presented by Al’s Skate Co., where dozens of young competitors pitted their skills and tricks against each other in a multi-heat format.
Away from the ramps, rails, and other obstacles, young people, their friends, family, and circle of care were able engage with valuable youth services based in Wagga Wagga, who set up stalls around the park.
Council’s Youth and Community Development Officer Mel Fattore was thrilled with the turnout.
“I'm just so happy to see this many people supporting an event like this,” Ms Fattore said. “I love the fact that we had locals, young and older, coming together at this event, which is what we were hoping for.
“It was wonderful to see all of the support service organisations coming together in a fun and inclusive and engaging way, helping to break down barriers for young people so they feel confident reaching out and seeking the support they need.”
Community partners Rapid Relief Team Wagga, St Vincent de Paul Riverina and The Smith Family, along with NSW Youth Justice, provided services such as free haircuts, essential school resources and free food.
The event also featured a variety of activities, such as weaving, handball competitions, 3x3 basketball, and giant lawn games, while the Wagga Wagga City Library’s Agile Library van also rolled up for the afternoon.
The event wrapped up with a screening of The Wild Robot on a pop-up movie screen, provided by Rural Outreach Counselling.
Picture by Taylor DodgeA man has been taken into custody during a police operation in a Wagga suburb
Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueMembers of the public had been urged to stay away from an area of Kooringal as the operation unfolded on Thursday afternoon
A significant number of police resources were in the area around Berala Street and Ziegler Avenue in Kooringal as of 2.45pm on April 3
Police roadblocks were set up with diversions in place around the location
It is understood police officers had a unit complex on Berala Street surrounded
A NSW Police spokesperson confirmed there had been an active police operation under way and members of the public had been urged to avoid the area
a man was taken into custody and was assisting police with their inquiries
The spokesperson said no further details were currently available
In other police news, a man has been charged and another person remains on the run after a taxi driver was assaulted
Michael Cummins has returned to East Wagga-Kooringal after a stint with Farrer League rivals East Wagga-Kooringal
Picture by Courtney ReesEast Wagga-Kooringal has made another move to add to its defensive line
with Michael Cummins returning to the club
Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueCummins will be in Hawks colours for the first time in over a decade
He's looking forward to playing alongside some familiar faces again
"The boys had been at me for a couple of years
"Jake (Barrett) was pretty persistent and called me fairly early at the end of last year so I thought I'd go try something a bit different."
After being part of the EWK's 2014 reserve grade premiership
Cummins spent four seasons with Narrandera in the Riverina League before making the move to The Rock-Yerong Creek for the 2019 season
Cummins was part of a grand final loss with the Magpies in 2022 and a reserve grade premiership in 2023
after playing all but one of his 16 games in first grade last season
Cummins wasn't selected for either the preliminary final or grand final
He admitted how it all unfolded played a factor in his move
I don't think many people agreed with it," Cummins said
Michael Cummins in action for The Rock-Yerong Creek.With Hayden Bradley also linking with the club in the off-season
East Wagga-Kooringal coach Jake Barrett is pleased to have Cummins on board
"It's unreal to have Cummo as well," Barrett said
he'll predominately be playing back line for us
and it's something we probably looked at as a club and as a team coming off a loss in the prelim against the Magpies
"We probably saw our back line as one of our weaker points in the team
"I'm not saying any of those boys did anything wrong
but in terms of the overall look over the team
it was definitely something we needed to improve on
"Bringing those two boys in there is huge for us
and the experience that comes with that is unreal."
Hawks president Paul Bourne is also pleased to have the former junior back at the club
and it's just good to have local juniors come home," Bourne said
Jarrad Boumann has committed to another season with East Wagga-Kooringal.Jarrad Boumann has committed to another season with the club in another boost at the other end of the field
There were doubts over his future in the game
with the prolific goalscorer considering retirement
"We're very happy to have him for as long as he wants to keep playing," Bourne said
then he's going on a little overseas trip for six or so weeks
Bowie will be lapping it up in the sun somewhere
and then he will be back when the wet weather has gone from here
but Jake and Bowie were chatting over the summer and they've come up with a bit of a plan that is going to suit him ok," Bourne said
"He can miss those few games but still be back a couple of weeks before finals and add to our list."
However it's not all good news for the Hawks with Bryce McPherson returning to Lake Carelligo
It follows Dylan Morton's move to take on the coaching role at Turvey Park and Jeremy Piercy's plans to head to Queensland when his stint in the Northern Territory ends
"They are three very big outs," Bourne said
Courtney is a sports journalist from The Daily Advertiser focusing on Group Nine, Southern Inland, cricket, harness racing and greyhound racing.
Today's top stories curated by our news team
Grab a quick bite of today's latest news from around the region and the nation
Catch up on the news of the day and unwind with great reading for your evening
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The newly upgraded Bill Jacob Athletics Centre at Jubilee Park was officially unveiled Friday
marking a major milestone for athletics in the Riverina
The multi-million-dollar redevelopment has transformed the centre into a premier hub for inclusive athletic training and competition – one capable of hosting events at regional
Independent Member for Wagga Wagga Dr Joe McGirr MP officially opened the site on behalf of NSW Minister for Sport
Dr McGirr was joined by other guests including Councillor Lindsay Tanner
representing the local athletics community
and members of Bill Jacob’s immediate family
including his wife Robin and daughters Sarah Young and Ruth Murray
Wiradjuri Elder Aunty Mary Atkinson delivered the Welcome to Country
while proud Wiradyuri man Luke Wighton performed a Smoking Ceremony
acknowledging the cultural significance of this revitalised community space
Upgrades to the Athletics Centre include a new all-weather 400m synthetic track
Many of these improvements have also prioritised upgrades to accessibility
particularly for wheelchair athletes using the space
these enhancements will firmly establish Wagga Wagga as a dynamic hub for first-class athletics training and competition
high-quality facilities for athletes of all ages
the centre stands as a lasting tribute to his dedication to athletics in Wagga Wagga
A driving force behind the establishment of the Kooringal Athletics Club in 1978 – later the Kooringal-Wagga Athletics Club – Mr Jacob spent four decades coaching
and developing the next generation of Riverina athletes and coaches
His tireless volunteer efforts helped create the original Jubilee Park athletics facility
leaving a legacy that continues to inspire
The upgraded Centre has already hosted its first events
welcoming junior and adult athletes training and competing at club level
Council has also begun taking bookings for 2025 school carnivals and athletics events
For more information, visit the Bill Jacob Athletics Centre webpage.
Picture by Tom DennisMaths teacher Margot Brissenden has crunched the numbers
she's spent 62 per cent of her life in a classroom
Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueBut now the long-serving Kooringal High School legend is packing away the pencils and hanging up her bedazzled hi-vis vest
affectionately known around the school as Mumma Briss
spent 37 years at KHS and had her last day on December 20
She said she remembered what the school was like when she first started working there as a PE teacher
"I was definitely the youngest staff member there at 23
it was full on because we came in as sports organisers," she said
except for when they've renumbered them which does confuse me ..
Ms Brissenden moved to Wagga with her partner Harry
who also took a teaching job at the same school
She's worked with almost every KHS principal and taught countless students, some of who she now calls colleagues
"There's a group of them that know me as a PE teacher
then there's a group who know me as a maths teacher," she said
"It's nice to see that people still want to be a teacher
I remember when we did this in PE and we had to do this'
"Occasionally they say 'you were the reason why I became a teacher'."
Ms Brissenden is a life member of two combined high schools (CHS) programs and will continue to serve as vice-president of the CHS school sport board in retirement
Margot Brissenden had her last day of teaching on December 20
Picture by Tom DennisShe left the sports field for the classroom and became a maths and science teacher in 2008 but didn't last long in a science lab
"I remember my first prac lesson in science
they had bunsen burners and I've never done that before," she said
"I've looked out the window and the fire engine is waiting out the front of the bus stop
I had a lot of those naughty year 10 boys in that class too."
Ms Brissenden decided the best way to end her career was to be a year adviser to the latest group of year 12 students
taking the cohort from year seven to their final day
She joined the graduates for a celebratory morning tea after students got their HSC results and said seeing how far they've come over the years warmed her heart
"Probably half of them are children of ex-students
"That allows me to see that family and where that family's grown
I think that's the advantage of a high school teacher
"Most of them knew my plan that they were going to be the last year."
Margot Brissenden walks out of a classroom one final time
Picture by Tom DennisKHS principal Helen Schmetzer said losing a long-serving colleague and friend at the school will be a big change
"Margot's famous for bedazzling everything that's left lying around
most of us teachers have a boring playground duty vest but Margot's is full of sparkles and rhinestones
so we'll lose a bit of bling around," she said
"There'll be lots of tears this afternoon at the farewell because lots of people will be feeling the same thing."
Originally from Wollongong, Jeremy has made the move to The Daily Advertiser to tell the stories of the Riverina. Got a story to share? Email jeremy.eager@austcommunitymedia.com.au or call 0473 641 320.
Wagga Wagga City Council is proud to present free youth skater workshops to coincide with KOORINGAL KICKS AND TRICKS in January 2025
thanks to funding from the NSW Government as part of the Holiday Break Program for Summer 2024/2025
The free workshops will kick off at 3pm on Wednesday 29 January at Henwood Park
the workshops will feature a wide range of activities for children and young people
Council’s Youth and Community Development Officer
Mel Fattore said this will be a fun and inclusive opportunity
“Whether you’re experienced with wheel sports or are looking to learn some clever tricks
these free workshops are the perfect way to level up your skills,” Mel Fattore said
will lead a creative grip tape design activity
showing young people how they can personalise their own skateboards and scooters with unique designs
is offering an experience that combines creativity and skill-building and they will be returning the following day on Thursday 30 January to host and judge our KOORINGAL KICKS AND TRICKS skate competition
kicking off at 2pm at Henwood Park,” Mel Fattore said
“The competition will be an exciting showcase of local talent and there will be some great prizes up for grabs.”
and circle of care will have the opportunity to engage with valuable local support services
and participate in fun and exciting activities like weaving
At the conclusion of the epic skate competition at 7pm
everyone is invited to stay around for a free family-friendly outdoor movie screening of The Wild Robot (PG) in partnership with Rural Outreach Counselling
Council wants to bring local youth services together to support young people and families returning to the new school year by finishing the school holidays with one last fun
and jam-packed giveaway event that is positive and provides much-needed support to our community,” Ms Fattore said
Community partners Rapid Relief Team Wagga
and NSW Youth Justice will be providing free haircuts on the day
KOORINGAL KICKS AND TRICKS is a youth and community
proudly presented and funded by Wagga Wagga City Council
and Wagga Wagga Community Drug Action Team
with thanks to our community partners Rural Outreach Counselling
For more event information and to register for the free youth skater workshops visit our website.
Picture by Les SmithA stronger desire for the football marked a big improvement in just the second week of the Farrer League season
Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueSome more familiar faces returning to their line up also helped Northern Jets bounce back to winning ways
It was a tight tussle at Langtry Oval on Saturday
the visitors did enough to take a 7.10 (52) to 6.5 (41) victory over Marrar
With a number of players unavailable for their opening round loss to Charles Sturt University
coach Jack Harper thought having some more experience really helped the Jets put in an improved display
"A little bit of depth and experience around the ground goes a long way," Harper said
"(Also) our composure around the contest was a fair bit better
I thought our hunger for the footy was much better as well
and we really took the game to them early and allow we might not have capitalised on the scoreboard I thought our desire for the footy was much better
"That's some good signs for hopefully the rest of the year."
Harper led the way for the Jets with three of their seven goals
while his brother Max kicked two in the third quarter to take back the lead
Marrar had an almost unrecognisable side take to the field
Only four members of the team that was beaten in last year's grand final were on board for the Bombers' first game of the season
They are set for a tougher test when they play host to premiership favourites East Wagga-Kooringal on Saturday, while Northern Jets will take on a Temora outfit coming off a 91-point win over premiers The Rock-Yerong Creek.
Northern Jets Seniors 2.1 2.2 5.10 7.10 (52)
H.Gaynor; Marrar Bombers Seniors: R.Bradshaw
Charles Sturt University coach Trent Cohalan kicked three goals in the win over North Wagga on Saturday
Picture by Tom DennisA dominant second half ensured Charles Sturt University's strong start continued
The Bushpigs made it two wins from as many games with a 12.8 (80) to 2.2 (14) win over North Wagga at Peter Hastie Oval on Saturday
After being held to just the lone goal in the first quarter
coach Trent Cohalan admitted it was challenging early with North Wagga bringing plenty of pressure
he was pleased with how his side was able to turn the tables to score another big win
"We probably pride ourselves on pressure and speed
and we succumbed to that a little bit and weren't playing as we would have liked," Cohalan said
they are a good football side with good players across every line and they brought it up to us
made us make a lot of mistakes and play a brand of footy we normally wouldn't be happy to play
"At half-time we just had to get back to being in control of the game and making them defend a little bit more as they probably had the majority of the possession in the first half."
CSU also had to overcome some adversity with full-forward Jake Collingridge due to a hamstring complaint on the eve of the clash before Dave Kennedy didn't make it through the warm-up after hurting his ankle
It meant Will Gellatly made his first grade debut after playing in reserve grade
helping to limit North Wagga's chances on goal despite winning the early possession battle while Ollie Wortley again impressed
bagging a couple of goals from the midfield
The Bushpigs head into the first of two straight weekends off before returning to the field to face Barellan on April 26
For the second week in a row to start the season
the Saints were unable to make the most of a good start
They led after a low-scoring first quarter but only managed to score one more goal for the rest of the game and one point for the entire second half
North Wagga has its best chance yet to get on the board when they host Coleambally at McPherson Oval on Saturday
CSU Bushpigs Seniors 1.0 5.2 9.3 12.8 (80)
North Wagga Saints Seniors 1.1 2.1 2.2 2.2 (14)
H.Wakefield 1; North Wagga Saints Seniors: H.Wakefield 2
T.Noy; North Wagga Saints Seniors: H.Wakefield
Jarrod Turner was among those to impress in East Wagga-Kooringal's win over Barellan at Gumly Oval on Saturday
Picture by Tom DennisEast Wagga-Kooringal survived a second-quarter scare as its new-look forward line continues to fire
After kicking six goals in his first game for the club last week, Andrew Swan repeated to dose to help the Hawks to a 15.12 (102) to 6.5 (41) win over Barellan at Gumly Oval on Saturday
It was another strong win for the competition favourites
but the Hawks were pushed by a Barellan outfit chasing their first win since 2023
including being outscored in the second quarter
After failing to hit the scoreboard in the first term to trail by 28 points at quarter-time
the Two Blues responded by kicking three goals in the second quarter and keeping their rivals to one
Still leading by 17 points at the big break
East Wagga hit back with six goals to one in the third quarter before running out 61-point winners
Coach Jake Barrett was pleased with the way the side responded to the challenge
and the way they moved the footy and they set up you can definitely see what Benny Walsh has done there
and it's great for them and club," Barrett said
it was a good contest and we just got lucky we had the legs in the end and managed to get over the top of them
"From the first two rounds now we've seen no game is going to be easy
and it just means we have to stay switched on
Swan has slotted in well as one of the main targets for the Hawks while Jarrad Boumann also chimed in with three goals in his different role this season
Jarrod Turner was strong through the midfield, Hayden Bradley is adapting to his new club, Anthoy Lo Pilato impressed again while Barrett continues his strong return after a horror injury last season
East Wagga-Kooringal will next tackle Marrar while things don't get much easier for the Two Blues when they travel to face The Rock-Yerong Creek who will be looking to hit back after a 91-point loss to Temora
H.Bradley; Barellan Two Blues Seniors: W.Ellis
Wagga Wagga City Council’s Active Travel Plan has taken an important step forward with the NSW Government offering funding for a new shared path link between the Exhibition Centre and Hammond Avenue.
At its Ordinary Meeting on Monday 22 July, Council accepted the funding of $1,354,890 under the Get NSW Active funding program.
Manager City Growth & Regional Assets Ben Creighton said the grant will cover the entire estimated construction cost, including project management, escalation and contingencies.
“This new link will comprise a 728m concrete shared path that includes a pedestrian bridge over Marshalls Creek adjacent to Kooringal Road,” Mr Creighton said.
“It’s something Council has been planning for some while, and we have spent a lot of time after receiving feedback from the community, particularly the users of the Exhibition Centre.
“There has been concern about the current lack of a separate pedestrian path across the Kooringal Road bridge, which has seen people walking on the road to get across Marshalls Creek.
“This work will address those concerns by providing a separated shared path for pedestrians and cyclists.”
It is anticipated that planning and procurement activities will occur during the remainder of 2024, with construction to be completed in 2025.
When finished, Council’s Active Travel Plan network will provide a dedicated cycle and pedestrian network of paths across the city, giving residents a safe alternative for commuting and leisure.
Ashleigh Baker and Lisa Baker celebrate World Teachers' Day on October 25
This year's theme is hats off to teachers
Picture by Jeremy EagerLisa Baker always wanted to be a teacher
but her sister Ashleigh never thought she'd be back teaching kids in the classrooms she studied in
Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinue"If you told me when I was in year 12 that I was going to be a teacher
I would have absolutely laughed in your face because I was like 'I'm never coming back to school'," Ashleigh Baker said
"But I think I'm definitely doing what I was meant to do ..
working with kids and having that amazing satisfaction of watching them grow and giving them opportunities - that's an amazing feeling at the end of the day."
The siblings teach maths and music at Kooringal High School
and celebrated World Teachers' Day with the rest of the staff on October 25
This year's theme was hats off to teachers and celebrated the contributions and impacts teachers have on students and the community inside and outside the school gates
Kooringal High School's teaching staff celebrate World Teachers' Day on October 25 with a breakfast
Picture suppliedLisa Baker and the maths faculty designed pirate hats for this year's celebration
"The looks that we got walking through the playground were very 'Miss
why are you wearing a pirate hat?'," she said
"So I took great pleasure in saying it was World Teachers' Day ..
Lisa Baker felt the call to be a teacher from a very young age
"The day I walked into my kindergarten classroom I looked at my teacher who had a pair of fairy wings on and as a five-year-old I was obsessed with fairies and I said to mum 'I want to be her'," she said
"I've had students say to me 'oh I want to be a teacher when I'm older' and I'm like 'that's amazing
Such an impact they can have on a student was not lost on Kooringal High School's longest-serving teacher Margot Brissenden
Kooringal High School teachers Margot Brissenden
Ashleigh Baker and Lisa Baker celebrate World Teachers' Day
Picture by Jeremy EagerMs Brissenden has taught at the school for 35 years and said teachers don't always realise the impact they can have on a student
She said World Teachers' Day was a chance to recognise value of the profession and the special connection teachers can make during their career
"I think teachers are actually more appreciated now than what they were 20 years ago," she said
to watch them come in year 7 as these quiet little things and then to discover them singing in the school musical."
"It's those little moments that you think wow - I actually did make an impression or a difference or something ..
it just backs up the fact that we do have an impact on these kids."
Picture by Tom DennisWearing handmade gowns and stylish suits
year 12 formal season continues in Wagga as the city's latest school leavers celebrate their graduation
Kooringal High School principal Helen Schmetzer said everyone made a lot of effort to look their best
with one student making their own formal dress for the occasion
they had a fantastic night," Ms Schmetzer said
View +10 PhotosPictures by Tom Dennis"Most students had at least a couple of family members there - it's nice for them to be able to sit back and see their children enjoy the night and see that accumulation of 13 years of schooling."
Family and friends joined students at the Victory Memorial Gardens before celebrations continued at the Equex Centre
and her team had done an exceptional job [with the venue]
It was absolutely amazing to walk in there and see it not look like a netball court," Ms Schmetzer said
"She'd gone to a lot of trouble to really personalise it for this year."
HSC students across NSW finished their final exams on Friday
Students now have a month-long wait until results are published on December 18
Charles Sturt University's Sam Barrow
East Wagga-Kooringal's Jake Barrett and The Rock-Yerong Creek's Brad Aiken at the Farrer League season launch
Picture by Bernard HumphreysEast Wagga-Kooringal is an overwhelming favourite ahead of the start of the Farrer League season
Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueRivals coaches were almost unwavering in their thoughts that the Hawks are certainly the team beat in 2025 at the season launch on Wednesday
Seven of the nine Farrer League clubs labelled them as clear competition favourites
New Marrar coach Zac Brain went as far as to say everyone was playing for second
there are probably only two teams at the moment who have picked up very well to put them in contention," Brain said
but East Wagga and the calibre of players they have picked up is pretty good
"They are head and heels above everyone else
and we're all playing for second I think."
After being knocked out by the Hawks last year
Temora coach Zac Oliver was quick to pick EWK as well
"I think the standout team would be East Wagga with their recruitment and their retention," Oliver said
who recruited quite well too will probably be up there towards the end of the year as well
but East Wagga is definitely the standout."
Bushpigs assistant coach Sam Barrow followed suit
and the team they've held onto from last year I think they are probably a clear stand out at the moment and we're all going to be chasing their tail at the start," Barrow said
North Wagga coach Damien Papworth was keen to stick with the majority
He and Northern Jets counterpart Jack Harper both highlighted the strength of their list
"It's pretty hard to go past their list," Harper said
"Not really losing many players at all and picking up some really quality players out of Canberra and around the districts as well has boosted their list to another level
Coleambally coach Tom Groves certainly didn't disagree
"East Wagga are going in favourites with the recruits they've got and keeping the majority of their list," Groves said
Alex Page and Andrew Swan have attracted plenty of interest from rivals after signing with East Wagga-Kooringal for the 2025 Farrer League season
Picture by Jimmy MeiklejohnNeither did new Barellan coach Ben Walsh
"I know a fair bit about their Canberra trio and they will no doubt have a big impact on the comp," Walsh said
"Already had a strong core so hard to see them not being the benchmark throughout their year."
The Rock-Yerong Creek co-coach Brad Aiken was the only rival coach to buck the trend
Although he still had plenty of respect for who East Wagga-Kooringal has brought to the club, headlined by Andrew Swan, Anthony Lo Pilato and Alex Page, he elected for a different answer
if they can build on what they did last year with what they've added this year
I think they are dangerous and East Wagga are obviously dangerous for a reason," Aiken said
"East Wagga have added three of the best footballers in the Canberra league
if they can get continuity and play enough games together they will be really dangerous too
but Temora is my pick as they deserve to be back in finals
East Wagga-Kooringal coach Jake Barrett also named his junior club as their biggest rival in 2025
they've retained really well and they've only really lost Jimmy Kennedy
but I feel they've replaced him and then some," Barrett said
"Obviously Jimmy was a big factor for them
The season starts on Saturday with the Hawks making the trip to tackle Coleambally in round one
The Rock-Yerong Creek will unfurl its premiership flag when hosting North Wagga at Victoria Park
who has seven players missing due to a wedding
hosts Charles Sturt University at Ardlethan while Barellan will take on Temora at the Barellan Recreation Ground
Play Duration: 9 minutes 45 seconds9m Brought to you by
There may be a looming social media ban for teenagers, but 14-year-old Ariba Omar was recently given the keys to the NSW Department of Education's Instagram account.
The Kooringal High School student was chosen as one of four students from across the state to participate in the student reporter program, and report from the Game Changers Challenge in Sydney.
Ariba spoke to ABC Riverina's Sally Bryant about the experience, and shared her thoughts on teens being blocked from social media.
Kooringal High School teacher Kate Livio, ABC Riverina's Sally Bryant, and student Ariba Omar.(ABC Riverina: Sam Robinson)
Download the ABC listen app to text and call your favourite live radio
All articles from our website & appThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxInteractive Crosswords, Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueStaines arrives at the Colts after a stint in the Cricket Albury Wodonga Provincial competition with Belvoir
while he's also spent time playing in Canberra in recent seasons
The talented wicket-keeper batsman was excited to be back playing in his local competition with the Colts
"I think it's been six or seven years since I last played in Wagga," Staines said
"For the last four years I've been travelling so it's going to be nice to have my Saturday nights back."
Kooringal coach Nate Mooney with talented young guns Jack Nightingale and Charlie Crowe and new addition Josh Staines who will run the newly formed Colts Academy this season
Picture by Jimmy MeiklejohnStaines will take on the first grade captaincy as part of his move to Kooringal while he will also take control of the brand new Colts Academy which will launch at the end of this year
He said the opportunity to jump into a development role at the club was a major motivator in his decision to join the Colts
"Crawf (Brenton Crawford) and Moons (Nate Mooney) reached out and we had a couple of meetings," he said
"It went from there and then the Colts Academy came up
I thought it was a really good opportunity to run that
"I've been doing some private coaching the last two years and I've really enjoyed that
running the Colts Academy is a big tick for me."
Staines was a Wagga RSL junior and he played for the Bulldogs at first grade level before having a crack at a higher level
While admitting it'll be a bit strange to go up against his junior club
Staines was more than comfortable with his decision to join Kooringal
"It'll be very different obviously," he said
"But it's a decision that I've made with my close family and friends
the big thing for me was the Colts Academy and I'm really excited for next season."
Club coach Nate Mooney said it was a fantastic result for the club to welcome on board a player of Staines' quality for the upcoming season
"Not only is he a great player that'll head up our Colts Academy that's going to launch in the coming season
"Yes we want his cricketing ability and his ability to coach
but also we want him off the field as it's hard to play with someone if you don't get along with them
"To have someone like Josh in knowing him quite well
he's just a ripping bloke to have around the club in general."
Mooney said the creation of the Colts Academy was to try and promote the transition from juniors to the senior club
"You get to the end of every year and the one question that remains for most clubs is how do you keep your juniors involved," he said
"The biggest thing that we found as a club when we sat down and looked at it was most sporting codes around here have it where you go from the junior club to an age group in the senior club
"In footy there's 17 or 18's whereas in cricket you go from 16's into grade so we're looking to bridge that gap and we thought an academy is the perfect way to do it."
Jack Nightingale (left) and Charlie Crowe (right) are two players that will be trained by Josh Staines (centre) as part of the newly formed Colts Academy next season
Picture by Jimmy MeiklejohnMooney will hand over the captaincy duties to Staines this season while he will continue on as senior coach
He said it would be great to lean on the experience of a player that has done great things in cricket in Wagga
"He's got a lot more experience than I do and I'l be the first to admit that," he said
"It'll be great to bounce ideas off him and learn off him
also having someone that's so close in age
"We've played a lot of cricket with and against each other coming through the ranks
it'll be great to play alongside him in such a special year for the club being the 40th anniversary
"It's going to be pretty special to have his experience
pretty much come Saturday it'll be handing the ball over to him and letting him go."
Charlie Crowe and Jack Nightingale are two of the promising players at the Colts that will learn off Staines in the upcoming season
Crowe enjoyed a solid first season at the Colts which saw the 15-year-old make three first grade appearances for Kooringal
The teenager was looking forward to being part of the Colts Academy and advancing his game under the tutelage of Staines
"It's exciting to be part of it and be able to be taught by Josh
Nightingale had his past season cut short but injury
however the Colts junior is one to definitely keep your eye on over the coming years
The 15-year-old was also excited to advance his game and learn from Staines
"It'll be pretty good to learn from an experienced cricketer like Josh," Nightingale said
"He's played a lot of cricket over his time
I think he knows a lot and he'll be able to teach me and all the other juniors that are going to be doing this program a lot."
Picture by Tom DennisEvery time Lea Tornaros visits her 96-year-old mother Jean
the pair make sure to pop into one of their favourite boutiques
All articles from our website & appThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxInteractive Crosswords, Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueBut by the end of June, Kooringal Fashions will be closing its doors after 57 years in business
"I never come to visit Wagga without coming in to have a look," Ms Tornaros
"I came into the shop and realised there's some amazing brands here ..
we love all the stuff that they used to sell."
Opened in 1967 as a Huthwaite's haberdashery, the store was originally across from its current location in Kooringal Mall.
It was later bought by Joy and 'Dizzy' Desailly who eventually renamed the store as Kooringal Fashions.
Current owner Christine Jolley was an employee at the store until she decided to buy the business in 2017.
96-year-old Jean Choi with daugher Lea Tornaros at Kooringal Fashions before the store closes after 57 years. Picture by Tom DennisTime to close the doorsAlthough Ms Jolley said she "could do it forever", the business owner has decided to call time on the business to spend time with her grandchildren.
"I'm going to miss it, I've had a wonderful experience, created some good friendships with different people," Ms Jolley said.
Her lease ends at the end of June, but despite putting the business on the market, she was not able to find a suitable buyer.
She has now discounted all items by up to 60 per cent, and is hoping the shop will be bare by the end of the month.
"I hope they will all go, otherwise we'll do some donations to local charities and things like that," she said.
Christine Jolley bought Kooringal Fashions in 2017 but will close the business as the lease ends in June 2024. Picture by Tom DennisMany styles and labelsAlthough the fashion industry has evolved as trends come and go, Ms Jolley said she always resisted moving the business online.
She preferred stocking smaller quantities of each garment, so Wagga women were able to wear unique pieces.
Lea Tornaros buying her final Kooringal Fashions purchase before the boutique closes at the end of June 2024. Picture by Tom Dennis"A lot of online shopping now, I've chosen not to have that presence, being a smaller boutique," Ms Jolley said.
"Traditionally, it's been an older demographic, then I introduced a lot of new labels when I took it over."
As she packs up and moves onto her "next adventure", Ms Jolley is thankful to all the women who worked at Kooringal Fashions throughout its history.
These staff include Dianne Norton, who has worked at the boutique for more than 30 years.
"I just want to thank all the beautiful staff we've had at Kooringal Fashions over the years," Ms Jolley said.
"I just want to thank all the girls that have been associated with me over the time, we will miss them."
Picture by Bernard HumphreysThe Farrer League favourites warmed up for another title assault
Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueThings didn't go to plan for East Wagga-Kooringal at the back end of last season
but the Hawks wrapped up their pre-season preparations with a tight trial win over Wagga Tigers
While both sides still have plenty of ammunition on the sidelines at Gumly Oval on Saturday
it was the Hawks who just edged out their Riverina League rivals in the hot conditions
There was little between the two sides throughout the clash
with neither team scoring more than two consecutive goals
However EWK coach Jake Barrett was pleased with the 7.4 (46) to 6.9 (45) victory
"We had a fair few of them play the week before and this week the opposite played
"I thought it was a great contest for both sides and we both got a lot out of it
"It's just a good bit of match fitness for them and that's the whole point of these trials games
"You can't train for match fitness so it's just good to get that in before round one."
View +6 PhotosPictures by Bernard HumphreysCombined with their first hit out against Turvey Park
most of the Hawks now have one pre-season game under their belts
He still needs further assessment as he looks to make his return from a sickening head clash in round one last year
Barrett remains confident he's on track for a return, with the Hawks travelling to Coleambally to open their Farrer League campaign on March 29
East Wagga has been one of the busiest clubs over the off-season
with five experienced faces arriving at the club
Barrett expects them to benefit from having two pre-season trials
"It's more to get a little bit of a run in as I think a lot of teams are pretty cautious these days with trial games as there is so much riding on the season at times and you don't want your best players already out for round one," he said
"You can set up your season in the early part of the season so you want to be a bit more on the cautious side
but you still need to get out there and get a bit of match fitness in."
Hawks junior Ryan Bourne has been one to really impress in the midfield
Barrett expects he's found a new home there
"I feel like he's really come along there," Barrett said
"He played a lot more wing and forward for us last year
but at this stage this time he's really cemented his spot in there
gives a lot of run and carry and spread from the contest."
Jake Turner has been one of CSU's better performers across their pre-season.Meanwhile Charles Sturt University wrapped up their pre-season preparations against Henty on Saturday
Around 12 players expected to be in the Bushpigs' line up for their round one clash with Northern Jets where unavailable for the trial including coach Trent Cohalan
However the changes enabled assistant coach Sam Barrow a better guide of their options in the two-goal loss
"We had a few of our key personnel out from the previous week with people away
but we got to see some new blokes and trial some blokes in different positions
"It was really good to see what flexibility we're going to have this year."
Travis Morgan are part of the graduating year 12 cohort of Kooringal High School
interesting and eventful - that's how four Wagga Year 12 students described their final year of high school as they prepare to walk out the gates for the last time
Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueKooringal High School celebrated its graduating class of '24 with a ceremony and morning tea on Thursday
she said knowing it was their last day at school was a weird feeling
Fellow Kooringal High year 12 students Alec Schmetzer
Raya Ehsan and Travis Morgan also attended the graduation ceremony
dad and pop were at the assembly cheering him on
we just enjoyed what we could [during the ceremony]" he said
"Hearing those speeches and then getting up out of the hall for the last time
Kooringal High School Year 12 students Raya Ehsan
Picture by Bernard HumphreysWhile the graduation ceremony marks the official end for the leaving cohort
the last week has been filled with dress-ups and celebrations to mark their final days
Raya said those moments quickly became highlights of the year
"I think everybody really came together and it was a big moment
just acknowledging that we're just going to be together for the last time
I think that was a really big thing," she said
Sameen and Raya were both considering studying medicine after finishing the HSC
while a gap year was on the cards for Travis and Alec
"I've applied to some unis for teaching and even accounting
but it's always nice to put yourself somewhere different," Alec said
While the graduation ceremony marks a very important day for the Year 12 students, Kooringal High School principal Helen Schmetzer said it was also special for the staff who have witnessed their growth over the years
File picture"It's always emotional when another group of year twelves finish
you invest I guess six years of your life with them," she said
"You see them come in sort of all bewildered and overwhelmed by the size of the school
and you see them going out sort of grown up
Ms Schmetzer spoke during the ceremony and urged the graduates to seize all the opportunities they can
"Sometimes we forget to enjoy the journey because we're so focused on where we're heading," she said
"So we're just encouraging them to enjoy what life has to offer
to accept the opportunities that come their way and to make the most of them."
The next step for this year's graduates is the HSC exams. Written exams start on October 15 and will finish no later than November 5
Over the last year Ms Schmetzer said there has been a push by staff to implement explicit teaching
a teaching method about not making assumptions about where students are up to with their learning
"So being really in tune with the students in your classroom
what the next steps in their learning are to move forward and then really explicitly scaffolding the work," she said
there's a learning intentions on the board so the students already know what the lesson is about
"There'll be a success criteria on the board
so the students know what they need to be able to do when they walk out of the classroom."
Ms Schmetzer said the method has led to positive results within the year 9 cohort in the recent NAPLAN results
but it hadn't been in place for long enough to see the impact it has in the HSC
"That's probably two or three years down the track..
but anecdotally lots of staff members are seeing a positive change in the classroom culture and the readiness for learning and the engagement with learning," Ms Schmetzer said
Channel 7 reporter Laura Dymock with sons Reeve
When Channel 7 journalist Laura Dymock and her husband put their Jindalee home on the market they weren’t expecting a cyclone to interrupt the sales campaign
The three-bedroom property at 12 Kooringal Drive
hit the Brisbane property market late February
But instead of welcoming potential buyers to their much-loved family home last weekend
“Buying and selling in a cyclone is not ideal,” Mrs Dymock said
“Our open home was cancelled and I’m a bit worried people won’t be out this weekend as well
Mrs Dymock and her husband bought the property in 2015
The home survived both the 2011 and 2022 floods high and dry
and after coming through the first cyclone to hit Brisbane in more than 50 years unscathed
the house has certainly proven to be sturdy
has survived two floods and a cyclone unscathed
“Our street is on the river so flooding was something we were thinking about when we bought it,” Mrs Dymock said
“A lot of suburbs in Brisbane have flooding unfortunately
“People just need to do their research outside of the council flood maps
which are designed to give you an idea but don’t tell the whole story
“Where our house and our neighbour’s house is
there is a slight rise and our house is on stumps
“You can’t see that though without going to look at the house.”
Mrs Dymock said she was sad to say goodbye to the only home her three sons had known
“We actually saw it the day it hit the market,” she said
loved it from the first time we saw it and bought it on the spot – we had a good feeling about it
we still love the house and Jindalee has certainly come a long way
but we need some more space after a third baby.”
The home has a big living area opening to a private front deck
The home sits on a 610sq m block and has three bedrooms
“It’s a house that has been lived in and loved and people have put their personal touch on,” Mrs Dymock said
“I love that it has a backyard with gardens
beautiful trees and shade to play with the kids
“The living area is big for a three-bedroom home and that’s where my kids hang out all the time – it’s where they took their first steps.”
the Centenary Highway Bikeway and riverside walking paths
“I’d love to see it go to a young couple who can enjoy it and make their own memories,” Mrs Dymock said
“We were first homebuyers when we bought it and I think that is who it will appeal to now.”
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First Nations students from the Clontarf Foundation’s Kooringal and Mt Austin Academies will learn skills to help them gain future jobs in the rail industry at Rail Readiness training courses being run by the Inland Rail Skills Academy in partnership with First Nations Registered Training Organisation Yakka Training
Yakka Training managing director Joel Thompson passes on his experiences as a rugby league player to help Kooringal Clontarf Academy students on the Rail Readiness course in Wagga Wagga
The Inland Rail Skills Academy course prepares First Nations young men for a career in the rail industry helping deliver Inland Rail in the regions
The Rail Readiness course aims to give the students a look at what they would experience while on the tools working in the rail industry
giving them insights into topics such as physical and mental fitness
After successfully completing the course students will have opportunities to go on to complete other Inland Rail Skills Academy courses such as Safely Access the Rail Corridor
Certificate II Rail Infrastructure and Certificate II Construction
setting them up to potentially gain future employment on delivering Inland Rail in the Riverina region
The Inland Rail Skills Academy has partnered with the Clontarf Academy and YAKKA Training to design the Rail Readiness course
although the skills that students learn will also help them beyond their work lives
The first course on Monday 12 August at Kooringal High School will have 16 students
with 22 students the next day at Mt Austin High School
“Inland Rail is proud to support the Clontarf Foundation in its goal of improving the education
and employment prospects of our First Nations youth
“The rail industry provides a rewarding and sustainable career path and the Inland Rail Skills Academy is committed to playing our part in upskilling young people so that they can take up a role in building Inland Rail.”
“The course will open up opportunities for the students – a lot of them don’t know what trade or career they want to go into and the course will open up avenues for them so they can make some decisions when they transition out of school
“The boys will also learn how to push through adversity and look after themselves
and that there is a support network out there if they need it later in life.”
For more information on training and development opportunities available with the Inland Rail Skills Academy, visit our Education and Scholarships page or email irskillsacademy@artc.com.au
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Visualisations for the two Hume Freeway sites and the Marchbanks Road bridge replacement in Broadford have been released by Inland Rail before construction begins later this year.
The new Seymour-Avenel Road bridge is open to traffic, following the completion of works by Inland Rail.
Local and First Nations businesses and community members in Wagga Wagga will have a chance to find out about potential commercial opportunities on the Albury to Illabo section of the Inland Rail project at a ‘Meet the Contractor’ event being held in town tomorrow.
Inland Rail Pty Ltd is a subsidiary of Australian Rail Track Corporation. ABN 73 094 819 520
Picture by Courtney ReesKildare Catholic College and Kooringal High School have won the last six Hardy Shield titles
and both kickstarted their 2025 campaigns with big wins
All articles from our website & appThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxInteractive Crosswords, Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueLast year's grand finalists picked up where they left off at Parramore Park on Monday
Three-time defending champions Kildare cruised to victory in round one
Despite some scrappy ball security giving Mater Dei Catholic College a number of opportunities
Kildare's defensive line was unable to be breached
Coach Matt Ward was pleased to start things off with a 26-0 victory
"To win to nil is always good so we're happy with that," Ward said
We have actually been doing a bit of training
so we probably haven't been training together as much as we probably should have
"There is only so much time you can get on the oval
but hopefully we improve over the coming weeks
Centre Isaac Pratt set the tone early as he raced 60 metres to score the opening try before making it an early double
Kaden Dowling crossed on the opposite wing to give Kildare a 14-0 lead at the break
They never really clicked into gear but second-half tries to Archie Piffero and Lachlan Bruce sealed the one-way win
View +11 PhotosPictures by Courtney ReesKooringal was also a comfortable winner to start their campaign
Kooringal soon got on the board through Cooper Gray before tries to Jock Graham and Callum Killeen in the following eight minutes saw them bounce out to a 16-0 lead at half-time
They went further in front with easy tries to Kye Howard and Jameson Elliott before Mason Mescia was able to capitalise on a Kooringal mistake to get Wagga High School on the board
Tries to Mason Crawford-Foster and Graham's second sealed a 38-6 win
After being beaten by Kildare in last year's grand final
coach Ben Thompson was pleased with how a new-look outfit came together
"I was really impressed with that effort as we were probably a bit slow getting ready for Hardy," Thompson said
"Things have been really going full bore at school but the boys have really bought in in the last week
we put together a pretty good side and I'm really impressed with that first hit out."
Kooringal have lost some of their forward power from seasons past
but adapted well to a different structure with Lucas Roberts and Graham making plenty of inroads on the edge
"Over the years we've always had big forwards
and that's probably something we're lacking this year
but we've got very mobile forwards," Thompson said
we've got a number of year 10 fellas that have come up
and it was a real impressive performance."
Kooringal High will be looking to extend their winning start when they tackle Mater Dei in round two on Wednesday
Mt Austin High School will be in action for the first time when they face Wagga High with Kildare having the bye
Mason Crawford-Foster tries; Dannen Waugh-Smith 5 goals d WAGG HIGH SCHOOL 6 (Mason Mescia try; Mason Mescia goal)
KILDARE CATHOLIC COLLEGE 26 (Isaac Pratt 2
Lachlan Bruce tries; Diezel Watson 3 goals) d MATER DEI CATHOLIC COLLEGE 0
who was last seen leaving a home in Wagga on March 15
fileConcerns held for a Wagga man last seen on the weekend have prompted an appeal for help from the public
All articles from our websiteThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueRiverina Police District launched the appeal on Monday after 32-year-old Luke Ingram was reported missing
He was last seen leaving a home on Merinda Crescent in Kooringal around 5pm on Saturday
Mr Ingram's disappearance is out of character
police said as they issued the plea for assistance
"He is described as Caucasian in appearance
180cm tall with a medium build with red hair and brown eyes," they said
"He was last seen wearing black jeans and a black hoodie."
Lake Albert and Mile Reserve in Currawarna
Anyone with information is urged to contact police by calling Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or using the online reporting page
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Kooringal Stud’s bargain blueblood sire Sandbar has been the most searched stallion on Breednet this year through hypothetical matings and that’s thanks to his unbeaten super exciting 2YO Shaggy and at Grafton on Monday he produced another scintillating debut winner
Dusty Bay was a hot favourite for the 1110m maiden and duly thrashed his opposition to win by five lengths
Bred in partnership by Kooringal Stud and retained to race, Dusty Bay is the second winner from Magic Dust, a winning three-quarter sister-in-blood by Magic Albert to Grou III winner Vital Flyer from stakes-winner Shepishir.
Magic Dust has a yearling colt to follow by Sandbar and then produced a colt last year by another of the Kooringal Stud based sires Prized Icon and is back in foal to him again.
A stakes-winning son of Snitzel and a three-quarter brother-in-blood to Golden Slipper winner Farnan, Sandbar has had two winners and two place-getters from five starters with Shaggy the standout. Trained by Allan Kehoe, Shaggy has won all three starts to date including a two length win over Godolphin colt Comedy in the ATC Pierro Plate.
Sandbar has covered 175 mares in his first four seasons at a fee of $8,800, but judging by the interest on Breednet will be covering a lot more mares this spring!
Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueThe 30-year-old was taken into custody and put in the back of a police vehicle on Ziegler Avenue in Kooringal just after 3pm on Thursday
The arrest happened while a number of police were in the area at the time for an unrelated operation
A NSW Police spokesperson said the man rode through the operation on his bike
before yelling out to the officers and going into a unit on Ziegler Avenue
"Inquiries were made and determined the man had outstanding warrants," the spokesperson said
Officers entered the unit and arrested the 30-year-old man
The man was taken to Wagga police station and charged with stalk/intimidate intending fear of physical harm
He appeared in Wagga Local Court on Friday
and was granted conditional bail to reappear at the same court on Tuesday
DA for construction of multi-dwelling development in Kooringal
Council approved DA23/0673 to construct a multi-dwelling development comprising of three single storey attached dwellings at 16 Kenneally Street in Kooringal (Lot 4 DP 847576)
RP-1 DA23/0673 - 3 X SINGLE STOREY ATTACHED DWELLINGS AND 4 LOT COMMUNITY TITLE SUBDIVISION
Council adopted the Operational Plan 2024/25
the Fees and charges for the financial year 2024/25
and the Long Term Financial Plan (LTFP) 2024/25
which deliver an overall budget of $240 million
The overall figure includes a total operating expenditure budget of $159.31 million in addition to more than $81 million of Capital works projects and programs for the 2024/25 financial year
More information about the 2024/25 Budget is in an accompanying media release
RP-2 INTEGRATED PLANNING AND REPORTING (IP&R) - ADOPTION OF DOCUMENTS
Changes to section 7.12 contributions for Special Activation Precinct
Council endorsed placing the draft Wagga Wagga Local Infrastructure Contributions Plan 2019 - 2034 Appendix G on public exhibition from 28 June 2024
with public submissions invited until 26 July 2024
Council currently levies section 7.12 contributions at a rate of 1% of the developer’s construction costs through the Wagga Wagga Local Infrastructure Contributions Plan
The Regional Growth NSW Development Corporation (RGDC) approached Council with a proposal to utilise the local contribution plan framework to capture an additional 2% Section 7.12 contributions to contribute towards funding existing and future local infrastructure in the Wagga Wagga Special Activation Precinct (SAP) area
The additional 2% would only be levied in the SAP area
Council will receive a further report addressing any submissions received
RP-3 ADDITIONAL 2% SECTION 7.12 CONTRIBUTIONS IN THE WAGGA WAGGA SPECIAL ACTIVATION PRECINCT FOR LOCAL INFRASTRUTURE
Female friendly changerooms and toilet facilities at McPherson Oval
Council endorsed the development of new female friendly changerooms at McPherson Oval
The North Wagga Australian Football and Netball Club was awarded $739,000 from the State Government’s Level the Playing Field Grant Program to build female friendly changerooms and toilet facilities at McPherson Oval
The club has proposed to complete these works prior to handing ownership to Council
RP-4 FEMALE FRIENDLY AMENITIES AT MCPHERSON OVAL
Applications for major events awarded funding
Council endorsed authorising the General Manager or their delegate to enter into an agreement to sponsor the following events through the 2024/25 Major Events
Festivals and Film Sponsorship Program budget:
FESTIVALS AND FILMS SPONSORSHIP 2024/25 ROUND 1
Council approves the proposed 2023/24 budget variations for the month ended 31 May 2024 and note the balanced budget position as presented in this report
The proposed Operating and Capital Budget Variations for 31 May 2024 which affect the current 2023/24 financial year includes a $150,000 grant through Transport for NSW’s Open Streets Program (Vibrant Streets Package) for the 2024 Festival of W
The grant funding will be used to upscale the festival with an additional festival feature of a temporary street-level activation programmed across the middle weekend of the festival
RP-8 FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE REPORT AS AT 31 MAY 2024
Council approved providing a financial contribution of $13,828.86 to Pro Patria for the construction of its new community workshop rooms for the Defence Shed
in accordance with Section 356 of the Local Government Act 1993
The new facility will provide veterans with access to a range of practical skills training there and a space for them to meet regularly
RP-9 REQUEST FOR FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE - SECTION 356
Temporary amendments to Council’s Investment Policy
Council adopted the proposed temporary amendments to POL 075 Investment Policy to ensure the efficient management of the $70 million in grant funding recently allocated under the NSW Government’s Accelerated Infrastructure Funding
P-10 POL 075 - INVESTMENT POLICY - PROPOSED AMENDMENT
Commissioning of ‘River Life’ public artwork
Council accepted the proposals put forward by artists Melinda Jennings and Shelby Lyons-Kschenka for the River Life public art commission
to be located near ‘The Rocks’ along the Murrumbidgee River in Wagga Wagga’s CBD
Nine (9) proposals were received from artists during the Expression of Interest period in October – November 2022
CONF-1 COMMISSIONING OF 'RIVER LIFE' PUBLIC ARTWORK
Contract for FOGO waste acceptance and processing
Council accepted the offer of Wormtech Pty Ltd (ABN: 72 143 326 327) for the acceptance and processing of FOGO waste
The new contract is for a 24-month period with possible extensions of 1 x 12-month period and 1 x up to a maximum 10-month period
This is to bring this contract expiry date in line with other waste contracts Council has in place for the collection of landfill waste
FOGO waste and recyclable waste and processing of recyclable waste
CONF-2 RFT2024-20 FOOD ORGANICS GARDEN ORGANICS WASTE ACCEPTANCE & PROCESSING
Supply of Electronic Identification Device system for LMC
Council accepted the offer of Outcross Agri Services Pty Ltd (ABN: 74 650720451) in the lump sum amount of $832,901.80 (excluding GST) for the supply of the Electronic Identification Device (eID) system for the Livestock Marketing Centre (LMC)
all State and Federal Agricultural Ministers agreed to work toward a mandatory implementation of individual sheep and goat electronic identification nationwide by 1 January 2025
CONF-3 LIVESTOCK MARKETING CENTRE - EID MANDATORY IMPLEMENTATION FOR SHEEPS AND GOATS
Expressions of Interest for grazing licences
Council has endorsed authorising the General Manager or their delegate to negotiate entry into grazing licence agreements for a number of parcels of Council land located within the Wagga Wagga Local Government Area
CONF-4 EXPRESSION OF INTEREST FOR GRAZING LICENCES OVER MULTIPLE PARCELS OF COUNCIL LAND - OUTCOME REPORT
Kooringal Stud’s beautifully bred first season sire Sandbar couldn’t have kicked his career off any more impressively after his first runner produced a near six length romp at Coffs Harbour on Sunday
Following an impressive barrier trial win at Newcastle
the Allan Kehoe trained Shaggy went to the post a long odds-on favourite to make the winning debut and so it proved
Aaron Bullock cruised to the lead on jumping and the race was never in any doubt
letting him extend in the straight to outclass the opposition and put a final margin of 5.7 lengths on them
Kooringal bred Shaggy and had him entered for last year’s Inglis Classic Yearling Sale
however he was a withdrawal and now races for his breeders
They are offering his half-brother by Exceedance at this year’s Classic Sale as Lot 446.
Sandbar is impeccably bred, being a three-quarter brother by Snitzel to Golden Slipper winner and fellow first season sire Farnan.
He retired to Kooringal as a stakes winner and two and three, and also finished a length and a half 4th to The Autumn Sun in the Group I Golden Rose.
He stood the 2024 season at a fee of $8,800
Picture by Jimmy MeiklejohnKooringal has signed Nathanael Mooney as their new senior coach for the next two Wagga Cricket seasons
Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueMooney last played for Kooringal in the 2021-22 season and he returns to the Colts after a couple of years away living in Canberra
Mooney in the years before his departure also represented Riverina and Wagga Sloggers
Mooney will take over the role from Keenan Hanigan and he said it was a privilege to be leading the Colts in what is a milestone year for the club
get the question and the tap on the shoulder to take it up I'm pretty privileged," Mooney said
"It's a club that has given so much to me over the past few years and coming back after a few years away is going to be interesting
Mooney revealed he doesn't have much prior experience as a cricket coach however said that he has coached in the past
"I've done a little bit here and there with rugby in juniors," he said
"But the best way to learn is to be in the job and doing it
successes and learning's from the season."
There hasn't been much player movement ahead of the upcoming season, however it is confirmed the Colts will be without former captain Sam Gainsford who has joined St Patrick's for the upcoming Cricket Albury-Wodonga campaign
Mooney admitted he was yet to have a concrete idea of how their squad was looking
however he believed that they should be relatively strong this season
"But it's hard to tell in July as blokes are pretty focused on footy and other things
"Once boys start thinking about whether they are going to go round again that's when we'll start shaping up not just as a squad but the whole club in general."
Mooney also believed that a start date for pre-season would also be influenced by the winter ball sports
"It's hard to tell with all the different codes
when they finish and the fact the season is yet to get a serious starting date," he said
but it will be determined by blokes playing footy and their availability."
40 years of a cricket club in Wagga is a big thing and going to be a driving point for us," he said
"On-field success will come if we put the work in and blokes turn up and are ready to roll and have that buy in
"Only time will tell how successful the on-field will be."
The Colts had three of their junior teams make finals last year and they have got a number of talented youngsters that could one day play first grade for Kooringal
Mooney said he was excited to work alongside the younger players at the club and help them develop their skills so they can play grade cricket in the not too distant future
"I'm really looking forward to that," he said
our juniors are likely to have a representation in most if not all of the grades
"To have that as a club in such a significant year is really a positive for the future of the club
"I want to be able to coach and help the older boys that are about to graduate from juniors to seniors to give them as much support and help as we can
"If that means they might play a couple of games here and there this year to further their development then that's what we are going to do."
Colts president Brenton Crawford was delighted to have Mooney back at Kooringal and onboard for the next two years as senior coach
Picture by Tom DennisThe Riverina Anglican College has progressed to the next round of the Bill Turner Cup after a confident win over Kooringal High School
Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueAfter a day of games the schools battled it out at Rawlings Park on Tuesday
Coach Thomas Belling said he was impressed with the level of play across the day
Stepping in to assist regular coach Ian Begg
Belling said the day was a huge success for the TRAC side
"They had a very good performance throughout the day," Belling said
"We started the day with a very strong performance against Wagga High in the first half
we probably slipped a little bit in the second half against them but strengthened towards the end of that game
"We took that through into the second game where we played strong in the whole game."
Hoping the boys will take confidence from the win into their next game where they will play Griffith's Marian College
View +17 PhotosPictures by Tom DennisTaking plenty of positives from their games
Belling said the side can hold their heads high as they progress into the next round
with an outstanding three goals in the grand final
Also impressive was Ariz Ismail who set the team up for early success in their opening round game against Wagga High
Kai Martin was also a standout with a brace in the final
Kooringal High School has progressed to the next round
where they will play the winner of the Young and Cootamundra High Schools
They handed Wagga High School a 10-0 defeat in the final
with Wagga progressing to the game after the withdrawal of Mount Austin High School from the competition
The winners of each division were presented with the Ron Anschuetz Shields as local champions
The Bill Turner Cup and Trophy is a nation-wide under 15s school soccer competition
Kooringal High School 10 (Addison Salmon 4
The Riverina Anglican College 8 (John Yoo 3
Jackson Myers 1) d Kooringal High School 1 (own goal)
Tahlia Sinclair runs around Wagga Wagga for The Daily Advertiser. You can reach me on 0455 370 575
Picture by Tom DennisKooringal High School have started their Tracey Gunson Shield campaign with a bang
Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueRound of the shield was played at Equex Centre on Tuesday and Kooringal showed they are a top contender with a massive 70-1 win over Mount Austin High School
Despite the large scoreline, captain Chloe Miles said it was a well contested game
The year 12 student said much of last year's team returned this season after making the bronze game in 2023
"We've got a few older girls and a few young ones coming through
developing them into the team for the next few years."
clean netball this year Miles was impressed with the first performance
Hoping that Tuesday night's game is just the start of another strong season
while there were plenty of positives to take from the game
not letting loose balls get away from them
and tightening defence against teh body were high on the list
View +18 PhotosPictures by Tom DennisMiles was especially pleased with the performance from players in the ring
"Our defenders stopped everything," she said
"Our shooters were also obviously on fire."
Miles congratulated the Mount Austin girls for their on-court efforts and was pleased to see they were able to get a team on court
Kooringal have Christian College and Wagga High on their fixture
Anticipating tougher games in coming weeks
Miles said the team will take confidence from the game
and make us work harder to fight for that win," she said
Meanwhile Kooringals upcoming opponents had a tight game of their own
Christian College held on for a two goal win over Wagga High
though the public school team worked overtime in the fourth quarter to mount a comeback
Wagga High kept Christian College to just four goals in the final term
but were unable to get up in the 23-21 defeat
In the Pool A game, reigning Tracey Gunson Shield holders Mater Dei Catholic College made easy work of The Riverina Anglican College
Mater Dei went into the first break with an 11 goal lead
and continued to expand until the final whistle for a 36-18 win
All articles from our website & appThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxInteractive Crosswords, Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueJust a week after only managing one goal in a 95-point loss to The Rock-Yerong Creek
North Wagga proved too good for fellow flag fancy
the Hawks with a 10.12 (72) to 7.8 (50) victory at McPherson Oval
North Wagga were up and about from the opening bounce with only inaccuracy in front of goal costing them a greater lead throughout the game
The Saints took it to the Hawks physically and then were too quick on the outside
moving the ball much faster and cleaner than their opponents
the Saints were challenged when the Hawks kicked three goals inside three minutes midway through the final term to close within five points
But North Wagga held their nerve and responded in style with a Josh Thompson long bomb from outside 50 steadying the ship
before Tom Nejman and Mitch Mattingly kicked the sealers
North Wagga coach Damien Papworth described it as the best win he's had at the club
"Definitely the best win we've had," Papworth said
"I feel like we've been close to playing a full game
we probably took a couple of steps back last week against The Rock but you take some good lessons from losses like that
We worked on some stuff pretty hard during the week and we got the rewards today."
There was a number of different elements of the game that Papworth was proud of
One was the way they responded when challenged by the Hawks midway through the final term
That probably has been a bit of an issue that we've leaked a few scores through momentum and haven't quite wrestled it back," he said
"We've worked on that too and it was good to see we dug in and we could get the game back on our terms a bit
kick a couple of goals and get that scoreboard pressure in our favour."
Papworth was also pleased the way the Saints ripped in at the contest
which then allowed them to take full advantage of their running game
"I think generally in the contest we're a pretty good team and we weren't quite there last week for some reason
probably just being a young group and being up and down a bit," he said
"When we bring that effort inside the contest
our work and then we can run off the back of that and spread
that's when we're playing our best football for sure."
View +18 PhotosPictures by Matt MaloneIn stark contrast to last week
the Saints had winners all over the ground on Saturday
The twin towers up forward in Matt McGowan and Tom Nejman proved too much for the Hawks to handle
McGowan worked hard up the ground to provide a marking option throughout the day
while Nejman was dangerous deep and kicked two goals
Josh Thompson was an important link in the Saints' ball movement
His speed and cleanness was a highlight for the Saints
Ben Alexander made a sensational return to first grade and was brilliant across half back
while Will McGowan took it right up to Mason Dryburgh in the ruck contest and provided a physical presence
After just one win last year and two already this season
Papworth hopes the upset over the Hawks can provide his young group with a real confidence boost
"I think it just gives us a baseline which we can work off
that's probably the standard we need to bring every week and it will give us a bit of confidence too," he said
"We've knocked off a pretty handy team and we've got a couple of games left before half-way so if we can build nicely into that half-way mark of the year then anything can happen in the back half of the year
Luke Cuthbert worked tirelessly throughout and was the Hawks best
while Ryan Bourne provided from much-needed spark at times
One of Tallebudgera’s most popular homes is back on the market 18 months after it last changed hands
Tallebudgera is going under the hammer on March 22 through Amir Prestige Group’s Amir Mian
which combines alpine cabin architecture and mid-century modernism
was one of the most viewed properties when it was on the market two year ago
The house combines alpine cabin architecture and mid-century modernism
The latest marketing campaign describes Kooringal Lodge as an “exclusive and secluded rainforest retreat where serenity
“Discover soaring raked timber ceilings that crown distinct living and dining zones
complemented by large-scale glass windows inviting lush outdoor rainforest views,” the listing states
“A seamless transition from indoor to outdoor awaits
whether entertaining in the expansive alfresco area or lounging by the heated pool on the sprawling terrace with a built-in bar.”
The property sold in a deal worth $5.995 million in late 2022 — it was created by Reece Keil Design and brought to life by Paul and Nicky Harms
The four-bedroom house is on a 5773sq m block and includes a combination of timber
Standout features include a separate studio
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The highest sale in Tallebudgera is $6.2 million paid in 2014 for 49 Tallebudgera Connection Rd
PropTrack data shows the median house price in Tallebudgera is $1.5m
All articles from our website & appThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxInteractive Crosswords, Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueAbout 4.45am on Wednesday, June 19, a pursuit was initiated along Lake Albert Road, Kooringal.
Police allege Shayne Beverley was behind the wheel of a stolen car during the pursuit, and when it crashed into a stationary car parked on the side of the road.
Officers reported he then fled the scene on foot.
Neighbours nearby said they heard a massive bang loud enough that it had woken them up.
View +3 PhotosAbout 11am on Wednesday, June 19, police were called to reports of a break and enter at a home on Copland Street in East Wagga.
Officers attached to the Riverina Police District, with assistance from the dog unit, located Beverley before arresting him and taking him to Wagga Police Station.
He was charged with 11 offences including three counts of driving a conveyance without consent of the owner.
He was also charged with three counts for driving on a road unlicensed, two counts of larceny, police pursuit, not stopping, driving dangerously, break and enter with intent and goods in personal custody.
Police will also allege Beverley was also involved in a number of break and enter offences in the East Wagga area.
He was out on bail at the time of the offences.
Beverley was again refused bail when he appeared at Wagga Local Court on Thursday. He is next due before the court on June 24.
Kooringal Lodge has sold in a huge $5.995 million mega deal
AN epic new build on the Gold Coast has sold in a deal worth $5.995 million
Kooringal Lodge at Tallebudgera made national headlines when it hit the market in late September
was one of the most viewed properties during the week it launched on realestate.com.au
Inside the property is styled to perfection
Sellers Paul and Nicky Harms are the brains behind the residence and said they were “over the moon” with the result
“We’re thrilled to be honest,” Mrs Harms said
“It was a great marketing campaign — 30 days on the market which is pretty short for something that is pretty unique.”
From the front the property is a stand-out
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The buyers are from northern NSW and made their offer within 30 minutes of touring the property
There were also three other offers on the table
“It just shows there are buyers out there if you’ve got the right product in the right area,” Mr Harms said
“It’s really a team effort from having the right block to your team and all of your consultants
“Then it’s having the right marketing — ours couldn’t have gone any better and we are super happy with the results.”
who had John Fischer and Shelley Watkins of PRD Burleigh market their property
The house was created by Reece Keil Design and brought to life by Mr Harms’ Gold Coast-based construction company PJH Constructions
“We saw that block was on the market and we thought it was pretty special so we decided to go for it,” Mrs Harms said
“Being secluded and on an acre block that was still close to the beach
we thought we would be able to sell what we built on it.”
The house is on a 5773sq m block and blends beautifully with its surroudings
The four-bedroom house at 30 Kooringal Court features a combination of timber
“I think the amount of different entertaining spaces in the home is the standout,” Mrs Harms said
“The pool area has a bar and various areas to sit by the heated pool and the balconies off the main home and the retreat are overlooking the beautiful tree outlook.”
He was an unbeaten juvenile who developed into a dual Group 1-winning three-year-old to rank among the best of his generation.
With a stellar racing career accompanying an outstanding pedigree, Merchant Navy had all the credentials to be a success in the breeding barn.
The son of champion sire Fastnet Rock is set to build on his blossoming stud career when he joins Kooringal Stud for the 2023 season.
It’s the second coup within a week for Kooringal, which has also added top line sprinter Finance Tycoon to its stallion roster .
“We are extremely fortunate to have secured a stallion of Merchant Navy’s calibre,” Kooringal Stud’s Angus Lamont said.
“He highlighted how classy he was in winning the Group 1 Coolmore Stud Classic at Flemington and then he went overseas to beat the best they had there.”
Merchant Navy closed off his career with wins in the Group 2 Greenlands Stakes at The Curragh and a memorable victory in the time-honoured Group 1 Diamond Jubilee over 1200 metres at Royal Ascot.
The bay started on 10 occasions, netting seven wins and two placings for more than $2 million in prize money.
Merchant Navy is also the sire of the stakes placed Royal Merchant and Drisana.
“He is developing an impressive record at stud and reports are there are better things on the horizon,” Mr Lamont said.
Merchant Navy was bred to be a star being the son of a two-time champion Australian sire while his dam Legally Bay (by Snippets) was a Group 3 winner.
“You don’t get many better families,” Mr Lamont said.
Merchant Navy is the second dual Group 1 winner standing at Kooringal alongside Prized Icon (Champagne Stakes and Victoria Derby).
The pair will complement Finance Tycoon, the promising sire prospect Sandbar and proven winner producer The Brothers War on Kooringal’s roster.
Merchant Navy will stand at a fee of $13,200 (inc GST) in 2023.
A local community clean-up day offered Kooringal residents the opportunity to dispose of large items of rubbish at no cost.
Skip bins were set up at Wilga Park and other locations in the suburb on Thursday (24 November) to help residents dispose of bulky, unwanted items and rubbish.
Council’s Social Planning Coordinator Sarah Lehman said the initiative arose from a request for a suburb clean-up from a meeting of neighbourhood tenants at the Kooringal Community Hub.
“Council is glad to take part in this important event, alongside the NSW Department of Communities and Justice, Housing Murrumbidgee, Birribee Housing, Argyle Housing, Mission Australia, volunteers and students from Kooringal High School,” Ms Lehman said.
“The initiative also received a number of sponsorships and donations from businesses, such as Smallmon Brothers Waste, who provided multiple skip bins and took them out to the Gregadoo Waste Management Centre.
“Council waived tip fees as well as provided staff and vehicles to support the Community Clean-up Day. It aligns with the actions outlined in our recently endorsed Community Safety Action Plan 2022 -2026, along with our Community Strategic Plan which recognises that everybody living in our Local Government Area has the right to live in a clean and safe neighbourhood.”
Jenny Davis from Mission Australia is the Tenancy Participation and Community Engagement Coordinator at Kooringal Community Hub.
She was pleased to see the support and commitment from so many different agencies to enable the community clean-up initiative come to fruition.
“A lot of these residents can’t get to the tip; they don’t have a trailer, or they can’t afford the fees, so a day like this is very special for them to be able to clean their yards out, particularly before Christmas, and it just gives everyone a great feeling in the community,” said Ms Davis.
St Vincent de Paul Client Support Officer Lisa Whillans said their organisation was pleased to join forces with other agencies to support the Kooringal community.
“This community clean-up day has such a major impact for those residents of the Wagga community,” Ms Whillians said.
“It assists clients who may not have otherwise had the opportunity or the means to be able to remove the rubbish from their homes.
“We were door-knocking this morning and residents of the area were so overwhelmed with the support offered by all of the organisations within the Wagga community.”
In preparation for the day, residents put their rubbish on the nature strip, which was then collected by volunteers who delivered it to the skip bins ready for collection.
It was anticipated between 30-40 tonnes would be collected over the day, covering everything from mattresses, scrap metal, and household rubbish including electrical goods and whitegoods, play equipment, indoor and outdoor furniture, and general waste.
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Kooringal High School is about to stage its annual production, and this year it's an original.
Written by one of the school's maths teachers, Murder on the Dancefloor features popular songs from the 70s and 80s.
Director Jessica Gill, along with cast members Jayden Wordsworth and Mahali Makham, spoke to Sam Robinson about the power of an original script that brings together the school's performing arts and music community.
Jessica Gill, Jayden Wordsworth, and Mahali Makham will commence their school production run tonight.(ABC Riverina: Sam Robinson)
A GOLD Coast new build is the hottest house in the country right now
getting the most views of all properties listed across Australia
Kooringal Lodge at Tallebudgera only hit the market last week but has already racked up the most hits on realestate.com.au this week
The property combines alpine cabin architecture and mid-century modernism with timber
Paul and Nicky Harms are the brains behind the residence – the pair is no stranger to Gold Coast property with a string of renovated and new builds under their belt
Tallebudgera is the hottest property in the country this week
While their usual stomping ground was Burleigh Heads
the pair decided to head west to the Hinterland where they stumbled across 30 Kooringal Court
“Tallebudgera is a beautiful part of the Gold Coast so when we saw this home and the seclusion of the block alongside the beautiful landscape and the potential to create a large home and still have ample land the decision was made,” Mrs Harms said
“The design was born from the intimacy of the private site
its connection to its rural rainforest type surroundings and the topography of the terrain.”
The house blends with its rainforest location
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But even he wasn’t immune to the building impacts of the pandemic
“We have had significant delays and price increases across the board,” Mrs Harms said
“Access to materials has been challenging and much more expensive than prior to Covid.”
But they got the job done and the end result is something special
The four-bedroom house features a combination of timber
While the house is being sold via expressions of interest
Mrs Harms said she hoped it would appeal to a range of buyers
“The Gold Coast market still seems strong,” she said
“It’s certainly not as crazy as it was but our sense is that quality homes with a point of difference are still selling and reasonably quickly
the uniqueness and size of the home (745m2) and the proximity to local schools and beautiful beaches puts it in a league of its own.”
We hear from one of our Australian Golf Foundation Junior Girls Golf Scholarship centres first-hand about their program
Kooringal Golf Club is a popular golfing destination for the western suburban area of Melbourne
Our Board has been proactive in developing a whole club approach to regenerating the sport of golf and our membership base
In recent times we have established a Junior Academy; are conducting Golf Australia’s Get Into Golf – women program
plus on-course experience matched with flexible membership offers; weekly MyGolf sessions (also a program run Australia-wide by Golf Australia) for approximately 70 children per week
secondary school introductory sessions for Mount St Joseph’s girls school (approximately 200 students)
Kooringal Golf Club is very excited to be included in the Australian Golf Foundation Junior Golf Scholarship program
This program will provide a pathway for our scholarship holders to explore their golf options
At the end of each term’s MyGolf sessions Jody Hawkins
conducts a golfing event for all of the young folk
Every child has an activity appropriate to their skills
The support provided by the family & friends of these kids is fabulous
the Clubhouse terrace is buzzing with positive vibes at the end of the golf
A chat group using Whatsapp was established between the girls and their parents
enabling an open and easy communication channel
The local newspaper and the club’s website have been other vehicles that have publicised the girls exploits
A member of our club interviewed the girls to hear what their hope and thoughts are on golf
one of the girls honing her skills under the guidance of the club’s head teaching professional
Jody Hawkins and judging by the wide smile and confident walk onto the tee
“I think the program is really good because not a lot of girls play golf
“I just wanted to give it a go and see what it was like
Having a program for girls made it better because I thought I would feel more comfortable with girls
the environment and the friends,” Jade Addison said
“In the old fashioned days it used to be just a boys sport and now girls can do it,” Charlotte Sweeney chimed in
“I like that golf is more about using your mind and thinking
And I like that you get to meet new people and have fun.”
“I feel good when I hit a really good putt and have less strokes,” said Emily Hendra
“Jody has taught me everything and now I have a beautiful swing,” said Charlotte Sweeney
It is really great when we play a few holes during a lesson,” Darcy Butler
Periodic Covid restrictions in Melbourne are providing a challenging environment for our efforts but we continue to plan and look forward
The club is very supportive with volunteer members working with each program
the club’s Golf Foundation providing financial support and an energetic staff all working together
Find out more about the Australian Golf Foundation Junior Girls Golf Scholarship program via the Vision 2025 website
The Australian Golf Foundation is the national foundation for golf in Australia. The AGF supports Golf Australia’s vision to grow golf by investing in targeted initiatives to inspire all Australians to enjoy and play the game. Visit australiangolffoundation.org.au for further information.
The scholarship program has come to fruition thanks to the foresight and generosity of Bonnie Boezeman AO, director of the Australian Golf Foundation.
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All articles from our website & appThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxInteractive Crosswords, Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueThe premise of Kooringal High's 70s-themed jukebox musical Murder on the Dancefloor is based on a tenuously true story.
While there was no sight of the Phantom of the Opera, the could-have-been-worse moment made a fitting premise for a string of tunes from golden age of disco.
"Last year during our musical Peter Pan ... a disco ball fell from the rig down into the seats," said Adam Franks, who plays the character of Snow in the show.
"There was almost a murder on the dancefloor, you could say.
No one was injured in that tale, it has proved the perfect imagination kickstarter.
Now audience members can expect to hear hits from The Village People, ABBA, and of course, the contemporary disco hit, Murder on the Dancefloor.
The backing is provided by a live band, who during rehearsals were burning with disco fever, while singers and techs buzzed about making final adjustments to the sound, and a showstopping set the producers are keeping top secret.
Miranda Harris, who is playing the character of Ruby, said the set and effects were being kept secret to preserve their impact value on audiences.
"We have teching humans who have been teching for about two years, and it's so amazing what they can do with technology," she said.
"They do amazing things with lighting ... I've heard there might be some sparklers, or some crazy things with haze."
No disco musical would be complete without dance ensemble pieces. This is often a big challenge in non-performing arts high schools, where choreography is often left to the last minute in the face of the bigger challenges of learning lines, songs, and blocking.
Liv Phillips, who is playing the character of Eric, said the dancing in this show was "absolutely amazing".
"We have senior students who do the choreography for the show," she said.
"They've been working on it for about two terms, and it's at a really high standard."
Mr Franks agreed, adding the dancers were "very professional".
KHS Musical band, hidden from sight, but working hard. Picture by Ash Smith"They're all really amazing - a lot better than I'll ever be," he said.
Unlike a professional show, high school musicals play a special role in Australia's arts ecosystem. They are training grounds for the next generation of performers..
It's typical for students to move over the years from near invisible roles in the chorus, to leading roles as they gain more experience, and collect advice from their directors, peers, and members of the community.
Jayden Wordsworth, who is playing Detective Dogood, has undertaken one of these informal apprenticeships, and has found himself at the centre of the show. He, along with the rest of the cast leads remain humble about their roles in the show.
"It's pretty much what happens for everyone," he said.
"Working with some of the younger kids who haven't been involved in previous production has been really fun.
"It's great to be with them, to help them out a bit more ... now that I have a bit more experience."
Tickets are still available for Murder on the Dancefloor for Thursday, as well as June 21, at Kooringal High School Performing Arts Centre.
For bookings, contact the front office on (02) 6922 5155.
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