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Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueOfficers searched the property at the corner of Schaefer Street and Marian Way on Friday
Police said six guns were seized during the home search
was charged with six offences and faced Parramatta court on Saturday
He was bailed to a Lavington home and must report to police three times per week
Multiple police were involved in the property search
File picture"You are not to possess or attempt to possess any firearm or ammunition for firearms," an acting magistrate ordered
Hartley will face Albury Local Court on May 14
The raid came on the final day of Operation Blue Ember, which targeted bikies and serious offenders.
A large number of guns were seized during raids at multiple locations
Drugs and other weapons were also recovered by officers from both Victoria and NSW
Multiple police were involved in the property search. File pictureNSW Detective Superintendent Andrew Koutsoufis said bikies were the biggest organised crime threat in the country.
"I hope criminals start to get the message that they aren't safe from the legal consequences of their actions; however
for those who still don't get this message know that we will continue to run this operation and that they have the combined efforts of both Victoria and NSW police forces after them," he said
Victorian Detective Inspector Craig Darlow said bikies had "high levels of involvement in illicit drug importation
illicit firearms trafficking and money laundering as well as extreme violent crime"
multi-jurisdictional operation highlights the importance and significant resources both Victoria Police and NSW Police are prepared to place on disrupting organised criminal groups from causing harm within our communities," he said
In other news, the death of Yarrawonga woman Kylie Sanders has prompted an urgent call for action against gender-based violence.
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Picture by Mark JesserPolice have seized six illegal guns during a raid at a Lavington home
Picture by NSW PoliceThe six firearms were found at the property
Police could also be seen removing various items
including a security camera system and a small amount of marijuana
Police raiding the Schaefer Street home on Friday
Picture by Mark JesserAn officer filmed while the property was searched
with about half a dozen officers involved in the warrant
A 21-year-old man was arrested at the home and charged with six offences
Picture by NSW PoliceHe faces six charges including possessing an unauthorised firearm
The arrest was in addition to the 56 people taken into custody during the blitz by Thursday
Police raiding the Schaefer Street home on Friday. Picture by Mark Jesser"The message is clear, if you are involved in serious and violent crime, we will find you," NSW Detective Superintendent Andrew Koutsoufis said on Friday.
our commitment to making NSW safer is absolute."
Victorian Inspector Craig Darlow said police would be "unrelenting" in targeting serious offenders
while Albury Superintendent Paul Smith said information from the public was vital to tackling such offending
The 21-year-old man was refused bail and is due to face Parramatta court on Saturday
after a blaze broke out in the home's kitchen
Picture by Phoebe AdamsA Lavington home has been left uninhabitable following a weekend kitchen fire
Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueFirefighters were called to a Halehaven Circuit property about 6.30pm on Saturday
The occupants were away and returned to find their home full of smoke
Firefighters were called to a fatal car rollover on Fallon Street
started in the kitchen and spread into a wall cavity
Firefighters were alerted and had to pull apart walls to access the fire
Crews managed to contain the blaze before it could cause major damage
Picture by Phoebe AdamsThe property had to be ventilated and was left uninhabitable
with an electrician required to assess the home
The incident occurred a short time before fire crews also responded to a fatal crash on Fallon Street
died when his gold Ford Falcon rolled about 6.50pm
Officers are investigating if speed was involved
are investigating a crash at Barnawartha North early Monday morning
A driver lost control of a Volkswagen at high speed on the Murray Valley Highway and crashed into high-voltage electrical lines.
Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueThe inspirational leader's goal from 40m late in the final quarter was the game's seventh and last lead change as the visitors posted a 10.10 (70) to 10.5 (65) win
you always want to take on that responsibility being the coach and a senior player," the former Collingwood on-baller replied when quizzed on wanting to take that crucial shot
I've kicked pretty poorly on goal this year
I've been going at a pretty poor strike rate."
in the inaugural Hall of Fame Showdown last July
And when the game's best player in the first half Shaun Driscoll took a mark of the season contender early in the second quarter and then nailed a running goal around 10 minutes later
the home team was 22 points up and seemingly on target for another win
'Cooky' (teammate Aidan Cook) was sitting behind me and I said
'I'm looking to use you as a platform for me
so go in front of me'," Driscoll said of the mark where he flew high above a big pack
I got a good ride and someone must have jumped as I got on his shoulder as it gave me a bit of a lift
where he had two bounces and ran 30m before drilling the shot
late goals to Angus Crelley and Jordan McKenzie
Lavington's frenetic pressure was the story from the first half
they're going to trouble a lot of teams," Broomhead revealed
"They're making good choices with the pressure they put on and it's a good brand to challenge anyone."
The Panthers' pressure forced the Hoppers into bombing down the line where the defenders
The teams went into the round 4 clash as the league's top two pressure-ranked outfits and the Hoppers lifted their intensity after half-time
"Our defence wasn't as good in the second half
which is disappointing," Panthers' coach Adam Schneider explained
The third quarter was a cracker with six lead changes
Lavington workhorse Billy Glanvill also showed his class with a snap off the left foot
but Julian Hayes responded with a superb 40m effort
Three goals to Panthers' emerging forward Charlie Sanson
provided quick hands for a Harry Weaven snap to reduce the deficit to two points in the final term
And the coach's composure snared the lead before Weaven crumbed a late goal for a 10-point break
"It was not our best half of footy (in the first half)
but we controlled the tempo a little more after that and when we found a target
Weaven was the Hoppers only multiple goalkicker with three
moving from defence in the absence of key forwards Josh Minogue (broken thumb) and Josh Murphy (Collingwood VFL)
Hayes was electric with his booming kicks from defence consistently setting up attacking raids
Jack Reynolds never stops running and scheming from defence
Layton Taylor took a handful of strong marks in the absence of the two power forwards
while Kane Flack was super clean by hand and foot
Driscoll did not have the same impact after his sizzling first half
Lavington is now away to a resurgent Albury
while North hosts the league's only winless outfit in Wodonga Raiders
Newsletters & AlertsView allDaily
Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueIn his second year at the Hoppers
but with the visitors' two key forwards Josh Minogue (broken thumb) and Josh Murphy (VFL debut) unavailable
Weaven kicked a crumbing goal at the 21-minute mark of the final quarter for a 10-point lead
Panther Ed Perryman cut the margin to four points
but it was fitting the game's best player in the second half in North coach Tim Broomhead had the ball on the siren
The win capped a stunning round 4 where Albury overcame a 27-point deficit at three-quarter time to edge out Corowa-Rutherglen in a two-point thriller
while Yarrawonga trailed Myrtleford by 23 points at half-time
but then nailed six goals to one to grab a riveting 10-point win
"In my last season at 'Brock' (Brocklesby Burrumbuttock in the Hume League) I played a bit down forward before the finals and in the pre-season just gone I mostly played down forward-ruck
so it was good to get down there and a kick a couple of snags," the 187cm Weaven said moments after the pulsating match
"Tim just told me to make a contest down there
bring the ball to ground and don't get beaten."
Weaven's effort is typical of North's improvement under third-year coach Broomhead
The Hoppers trailed by 22 points after 17 minutes of the second quarter
but then kicked nine goals to five to sit third with a 3-1 record
"We eliminated some of those basic skill errors
we were cleaner and did the basics better," Broomhead replied when quizzed on the fightback
The O and M is flying with the tightest competition of the modern era
an incredibly rare statistic over recent years
Picture by Mark JesserA dominant fourth quarter performance has kept the determined Hoppers undefeated following a close encounter with Lavington on Saturday
Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueScores were level heading into the first break
with North Albury up by one goal at half-time
The Panthers then had a one-goal advantage leading into the deciding quarter at Lavington Sports Ground
before 13 goals helped the Hoppers break away for a 37-43 victory
"It was a very tough slog and it was close the whole game," Hoppers' co-captain Sophia Kohlhagen said following the match
North Albury playing coach Emily Browne led the Hoppers over the line against the Panthers in a close contest at Lavington Sports Ground
Picture by Mark Jesser"It was only in the last five minutes that I felt a bit more comfortable
"We knew we could play better than we did in the first three quarters
but I think we just found a bit more confidence and let our ball speed do the talking."
Erin Haberecht shot 34 goals for the home side
while Hoppers' goal shooter Lily Kelly landed 23 goals from 25 attempts
Sarah Meredith was strong in the Panthers' defensive end
while Emily Browne worked tirelessly in the midcourt
The Hoppers were also assisted by B-grade players Milli Withers and Alyssa Lieschke
"It's good that we have that depth there."
Ange DeMamiel in action for Lavington against North Albury
Picture by Mark JesserIt marked the Panthers' first loss of the season
while the Hoppers are yet to drop a game after four rounds
"It's always a good way to start the season," Kohlhagen said
Corowa-Rutherglen's perfect run has also continued
while Sally Hunter switched from defence to attack in the absence of Indianna Frauenfelder to land 15 goals
Picture by Mark JesserWangaratta overcame Wodonga Bulldogs in a close call
The Bulldogs had a five-goal lead heading into the final term
but the Magpies dug deep to restrict them to just three goals to come from behind
Wodonga Raiders defeated Wangaratta Rovers 62-31
while Yarrawonga toppled Myrtleford by 10 goals (60-50) at JC Lowe Oval
while Kaleisha Pell converted 33 scoring opportunities for the Pigeons
Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueIn one of the few times in Ovens and Murray Football Netball League history
the Hoppers will field 10 players from the neighbouring northern competitions
the Riverina Football League and the Farrer Football League
we played juniors and some seniors against each other
they were at Collingullie-Wagga and we were rivals," Griffith product and now North teammate Isaac Campbell said
The Hoppers have 12 Riverina players on their list
Turvey Park export Jackson Weidemann was not named for the away game against Lavington as he is aligned with VFL club Northern Bullants
Darcey Cullen (Yanco Agricultural High School)
Jamie Mooney and Pope (Collingullie-Wagga) and Angus Crelley (Leeton Whitton) have joined the Hoppers since the start of 2023
obviously the team wasn't going too strong," Campbell suggested
"Over the last couple of years under Tim (Broomhead)
I've felt a little more comfortable on the field
I know where I stand and what my role is."
The role of any playing coach is threefold; improve every player
get the team playing to the best of its ability and play your best football as well
Former Collingwood midfielder Broomhead has passed every test and 24-year-old Campbell says he is the best coach he has played under
He understands everyone's strengths and weaknesses and he's able to manage that really well," he added
Lavington has been the biggest surprise of the first three rounds
scoring upsets over Wodonga and Myrtleford before a thrilling loss to leaders Wangaratta Rovers
Lavington has the look of North from 2024 where it broke a long finals drought
which makes it dangerous for everyone," Campbell said of the home team
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Police had earlier sought information about a missing woman
Picture by Blair ThomsonThe search for a woman missing in North Albury has come to a tragic end
Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinuePolice were alerted to the missing 44-year-old woman on Monday
and released a photograph in a bid to locate her
A body was found in a dry creek bed near Livermore Street in Lavington on Wednesday morning
Picture by Blair ThomsonShe had last been seen about 4am on Monday
Police were called to the dry creek bed of Bumbrawartha Creek off Livermore Street in Lavington about 10.55am on Wednesday
"Officers attached to Murray River Police District responded and established a crime scene," a police spokeswoman said
"While the body has not yet been formally identified
initial inquiries indicate it is the missing woman
"A report will be prepared for the coroner."
YWCA Australia development and housing director Desmond Chin and Homes NSW programs and partnerships executive director Humair Ahmed at the sod turning of the Lavington social housing project
Picture suppliedA multi-million dollar housing development has been unveiled to assist women affected by domestic or family violence
Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueThe $5 million social housing project by Homes NSW and women's advocacy charity YWCA Australia was announced on Wednesday
YWCA Australia development and housing director Desmond Chin said the organisation was helping to address the acute housing shortage in regional areas
"We know the Albury-Wodonga region is one of those areas which we are targeting and we know there is a shortage of housing
along with the rest of the country," he said
it's a nice spot for us to be able to get these developments
the government funding was targeted towards regional as well
"It's a natural extension from where we currently operate."
It is the first development by the national not-for-profit in NSW
there are currently 15 homes being built in Wodonga and Baranduda as well
They are expected to be completed in the middle of the year with the tenancy process under way
"Homes are pretty foundational to anyone being able to establish or re-establish their lives and build their futures," he said
The ground has been broken on the Lavington site for the development of 10 three-bedroom social houses
Picture suppliedThe Lavington homes are expected to be completed in July 2026 and are all three-bedroom
At least 10 per cent of homes will go to Aboriginal women
with tenants selected from the social housing register
"We do design the homes with the women's needs in mind and that includes how we design them for parenting
for communal time in terms of children," Mr Chin said
The organisation is a leader in gender responsive housing
Mr Chin said homelessness was a critical issue and it was important to deliver "good quality homes for all people"
NSW housing and homelessness minister Rose Jackson said the government and the organisation were working together to give women security
"Through the Social Housing Accelerator Fund, we're backing important projects like this one in Lavington that will provide housing for women and children, particularly those escaping domestic and family violence," Ms Jackson said.
"Projects like this are helping to deliver real solutions in the middle of a housing crisis by getting new homes built quickly and where they're needed most.
"We're proud to partner with organisations like YWCA to accelerate the delivery of housing in regional NSW and ensure more women and families have a safe place to call home."
Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueTeenager Josh Murphy kicked five goals in the 69-point pounding of Albury
while Jackson Weidemann played for the Northern Bullants last week
Archer Gardiner (Werribee) has been selected for North
Lavington is stronger than the outfit which fell to premiers Wangaratta Rovers in a seven-point thriller
Gun defender Jono Spina (calf) and midfielder Tom Hargreave (cork) have been named
although key forward Tim Oosterhoff (hand) will miss again
Yarrawonga has named Lach Howe to face Myrtleford
The Pigeons used manufactured ruckmen Ben Coghill and Matt Holgate in the ruck against Corowa-Rutherglen
but Myrtleford's Riley Smith has quickly made a name with his strong displays after playing in Peel Thunder's 2023 grand final team
while teammate Toby Cossor is one of the league's best emerging big men
The Saints have also selected former VFL player Kye Agosta after he missed the last fortnight
Wodonga co-coach Jack O'Sullivan will miss another game with his injured hamstring
O'Sullivan suffered the injury against North Albury on Good Friday
Albury ruckman Isaac Muller is among four inclusions for the home match against Corowa-Rutherglen
The runner-up in last year's Morris Medal joins Billy Robertson
Fletcher Carroll has not been named after a nasty head knock against Rovers on Good Friday
And Rovers are without a handful of players
including the suspended Dylan Wilson and Lockey McCartney
Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueThe Panthers have built their game on pace
pressure and slick ball movement and the more experienced Saints had no answer at home after half-time in the 10.17 (77) to 5.12 (42) result in front of a bumper crowd around 2750
"I guess you play to your strengths and we've got some fast
so pretty happy with how we went today (Sunday)," co-captain Jono Spina said
Lavington missed finals last year and did not recruit many profile players
so the obvious reaction from outsiders is they will miss finals
And while it is only two weeks in and the gap between eight teams
outside of competition favourites Wangaratta Rovers and a rebuilding Wodonga Raiders
the Panthers have already won over most of the league with their dash
Much of the pre-game interest was on Matt Taberner's return
13 years after his last game at Myrtleford
The former Fremantle forward and left-footer kicked his only goal with his right foot midway through the first quarter
while fellow key defender Jesse Hart was just as impressive
but I'll do what I can for the team," the unselfish Spina offered of Taberner
Lavington coach Adam Schneider has said publicly he rates Spina as the league's best key defender and while it's a red-hot field
including Wangaratta's Michael Bordignon and Wodonga's Charlie Morrison
although in fairness it started raining late in the second quarter and remained slippery
Shaun Driscoll was the game's best player by half-time
floating in to take a strong mark late in the first term for his second goal
The Saints' Jaxon East took a superb diving mark with an opponent almost on his back at the 13-minute mark of the second quarter and then blasted the conversion from 50m
while Ryley Bouker produced a typically magic effort from the boundary line minutes later for a 10-point break
But Myrtleford did not kick its next goal until the 12-minute mark of the final term
Lavington carried an 11-point lead into the final break
but ended the match with four goals in a seven-minute burst early in the final stanza
Myrtleford's Lachie Dale and Lavington's Alex Bennett had a massive collision with minutes to go
Coach Craig Millar said later it was a suspected broken jaw
The Panthers could have named 10 players in their best given it was such a committed team performance but Swinnerton
Jack Glanvill and Driscoll impressed with two goals apiece
Jack Driscoll had a terrific battle with Riley Smith in the ruck
while Billy Glanvill racked up possessions
Zac Pethybridge and Riley Calvene were strong
Myrtleford is now away to undefeated Wangaratta on Anzac Day
while unbeaten Lavington faces the league's toughest test - away to premiers Rovers on Saturday
the thoughtful design caters to the needs of a broad range of buyers
Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinue409 Vista Court
LavingtonContact agentAGENCY: Stewart GouldAGENT: Stephen Stewart 0418321815INSPECT TIMES: Saturday
April 26 from 10am to 10.30amProminently positioned in highly sought-after Quicks Hill
this substantial residence presents an unparalleled opportunity for discerning buyers seeking space
The impressive facade sets the scene for a home exuding sophisticated living and modern comforts
flows to the formal lounge and dining areas
The gas log fire adds a relaxed feel to the sun-filled informal living and well-appointed kitchen with excellent storage and bench space
with direct access to the two-way bathroom
provides the perfect guest accommodation or alternative to the upstairs master
The single garage provides direct access to the home and complements the basement garage with internal access and accommodation for five vehicles
View +4 PhotosA sweeping staircase leads to the upstairs bedrooms
and the lavish master suite offers a walk-in robe and en suite as well as access to a private balcony
while bedroom three can also be used as a study or nursery
the outdoor area is the perfect space for year-round entertaining
Additional features include ducted heating and cooling
Picture by James WiltshireSavings made through delaying other major projects should help Albury Council fund a remade Lavington Swim Centre
That figure far exceeds the $14 million the council has earmarked for the revamp of the aquatic centre
which is proposed to include a 10-lane 50-metre pool
utility pool and new entry building with a kiosk and change rooms
"There's a lot of opportunities and you just don't do other projects
you've got to prioritise this because this thing's at its end of life," Cr Mack said when asked how the funding gap would be bridged
"There's other large projects that we're looking at in a future budget
but essentially we've just got to look for savings by using that funding to fund this
"There will be some loan funding in it as well
we also need to reduce our interest rate on the loans that we currently carry
but essentially we're finding it in the current budget
where other projects that can be held over
Cr Mack declined to nominate what projects might be delayed to allow for a spike in Lavington pool funding
saying the issue would be subject to debate as the council drew up its 2025-26 budget
"We're not going to fence it off and leave it the way it is because the Lavington
North Albury and Thurgoona people deserve better," he said of the aged 1967 complex
Cr Mack was commenting in launching a community feedback process for another water project, a splash park planned for Oddies Creek Park in South Albury alongside the Murray River
Comments on the $5 million project are being taken until February 28 with its design expected to blend in with the natural surrounds
it's not a dinky toy like you see in caravan parks," Cr Mack said
The Yarrawonga splash park which was earlier analysed as part of comparative works for what will be built in Albury
File picture."It will be 1000 square metres and it will be fenced off and will be available for all those young people to familiarise themselves with cold water
but more so with water and a lot of them that can't swim
it gives them an option on a hot summer or hot spring day."
Cr Mack said the size of the splash pad meant it would be larger than Yarrawonga's version and have a more muted earthier colour scheme
"It's more about having an environmental splash park if you like so that it fits with the backdrop here and has features in it that are totally different to anywhere else," he said
The splash park is expected to be completed towards the end of next year so it will be operational for the 2026-27 summer and remain in use year-round but without jets of water in winter
Picture suppliedA man has been charged with driving under the influence and dangerous driving after a Lavington home was damaged by a vehicle
Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinuePolice were called to a unit block on Webb Street about 10.30am on Sunday
after reports a car crashed into the property
The scene of the Webb Street incident on Sunday
Picture suppliedThe impact caused the bricks to collapse
The white Toyota utility was located a short time later
and photographs on social media show bricks on top of the vehicle and damage to its windscreen
Police attended a Webb Street home about 1.10pm on Sunday and arrested a 48-year-old man
He was charged with driving under the influence and driving in a manner dangerous
The man will face Albury Local Court on March 5
only to track around on his left and nail the 30m shot
It was the entertaining game's 10th lead change and when former Collingwood player Murray willed himself to outmark Jack Costello and then charge off
third-gamer Jai Dal Zotto kicked his first senior goal with a 35m belter from the boundary line
The home team pushed the lead to 17 points with just under three minutes left
but when Costello and Nick Newton kicked goals within 90 seconds the underdogs had a chance to upset the premiers
behinds to Lockey McCartney and Alex McCarthy sealed a thrilling 9.16 (70) to 9.9 (63) win
"We just had a find a way to get it done and we did
but it wasn't our best performance at all," Murray admitted
Lavington has not played finals since 2019
but grabbed the league's attention with two outstanding wins to start the season
And it will take tremendous encouragement from the fact it took the league's best player in Murray and a couple of crucial touches from other top-liners Charlie Thompson
Lochie O'Brien and Brodie Filo in the frenetic final minutes to stop the unbeaten run
they were on top for patches and we had our moments; I'm pleased with the boys effort and Rovers are a very
very good team," proud Lavington coach Adam Schneider offered
Lavington lost four players at training on Thursday night in key defender Jono Spina (calf)
Tom Hargreave (cork) and Drew Beavan (knee)
"Jesse Hart was as crook as a dog too and could barely move
but gave us two quality hours," Schneider added
The Panthers grabbed an early lead as Darcy Smith
one of the four players promoted into the team with those injuries
exploded on to the ball to set up Newton for an 11-point lead
Rovers stole the lead at quarter-time when a host of guns
O'Brien and Filo combined to hand Nathan Cooper a sitter from 15m
The Hawks extended the lead to 10 points at half-time when Thompson produced a superb snap after roving the pack
The Panthers did well to hang on as the favourites dominated the last 20 minutes
Lavington cut the margin to two points at the final change
Thompson was terrific with a host of crucial touches
twin towers Ed Dayman and Will Christie (two goals) were effective
while Murray mixed a blinding first term and finish with a handful of turnovers
Smith and Newton were multiple goalkickers with two
Alex Bennett showed wonderful courage and composure a number of times in defence
while recruit Ed Perryman again displayed his class
Note the addition of a water polo pool between stage two and three
Image from CanvasThe commitment of Albury Council to cut spending has come under fire as debate flared about spending tens of millions of dollars on upgrading Lavington's aquatic centre
Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueCouncillor Stuart Baker questioned how serious his colleagues were about austerity measures given proposals to revamp the 1967 pool far outweigh the $15 million set aside in the city budget for a makeover
"We talk ad nauseum about fiscal responsibility
our councillors have just put up the white flag," Cr Baker said
The former mayor was speaking at the council meeting on Monday, March 10, during a debate about endorsing designs, for a revamped pool, to be presented to citizens for feedback
Councillor Darren Cameron initially proposed so-called stage three
estimated to cost $45.1 million as the preferred concept design instead of stage two
The third stage would involve a water polo pool in addition to a 50-metre pool with 10 lanes
deputy mayor Jess Kellahan successfully argued to have all four proposals
to be circulated to the community for 28 days
"I think we're missing the point here tonight
this is a draft that's going out to public exhibition
we're not the decision-making body tonight on this," Cr Kellahan said
The cheapest option is $31.4 million and the most expensive
After saying there was no need to die in a ditch to maintain support for a particular stage, Cr Cameron questioned Cr Baker's commitment to prudent spending given his commitment to a regional aquatic centre at the Lauren Jackson stadium.
"I would like to congratulate Cr Baker tonight for coming here with his new-found fiscal piety and saying we have to be fiscally responsible and we have to cut our cloth according to our means," Cr Cameron said
"Where was this fiscal piety last year when we were discussing the Lauren Jackson proposal
when he asked a question of staff 'isn't it true the estimation is only $120 million because of all the basketball stuff' and of course was corrected
Albury councillor Darren Cameron at Lavington pool which he wants to see upgraded
File picture."The major advocate for the Lauren Jackson development didn't know how much it was estimated to cost and the staff indicated 'no the $120 million is merely the aquatics component'
"Will this development at Lavington be expensive
"Will it be anything like as expensive as what has been mooted and advocated for for Lauren Jackson
The motion was passed 8-1 with Cr Baker the sole dissenter
Earlier, councillors voted 6-3 to have a wide-scale external budget review and analysis after Cr Kellahan put forward a notice of motion seeking such a measure.
She was supported in her position by mayor Kevin Mack and councillors Kylie King
Geoff Hudson and Alice Glachan opposed the step which is predicted to cost up to $120,000
Cr Kellahan said while the outlay would be significant it would be worthwhile
as it would build trust and transparency with ratepayers
who were both born with a colorectal condition that left them unable to clear waste from their rectum due to missing nerves
Picture by Mark JesserThe old saying "an apple a day keeps the doctor away" proved far from true for a Lavington girl when she decided to tuck into the fruit over four consecutive days
Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueLucy was left feeling extremely crook
just as she had been after eating noodles over several nights
The cause for such unusual reactions was the rare condition that the seven-year-old endures - Hirschsprung disease - which means she can struggle to pass waste as she was born without nerves in part of her colon
leaving mum Mel Armstrong and father Adam on edge for much of the time
"You must monitor everything that goes into them and everything that comes out," Ms Armstrong said
"They can go from unwell to very sick and needing to be airlifted to hospital in Melbourne within hours
"Lucy has been airlifted for a cold because the way the body responds to a cold you're at risk of life-threatening dehydration."
Lucy has had an operation that has seen a section of her colon removed and the large intestine shortened to the rectum to bypass the missing nerve area
"She functions 'normally' but what she eats has to be monitored because blockages can still occur as her level of nutritional absorption is affected," Ms Armstrong said
"Both girls take sodium supplements to help enhance absorption."
A similar operation for Hannah on her colon proved unsuccessful and she now has a hole in her torso
which allows waste to flow into an attached bag that is emptied regularly
Needing to be so meticulous in caring for her daughters has meant Ms Armstrong looks after them full-time
having previously worked as a disability manager
Helping ease the strain has been a colorectal and pelvic reconstruction service that was established at Melbourne's Royal Children's Hospital in 2019 with $5.9 million in federal funding
It meant a dedicated nursing consultant was on hand to assist the family and direct them to specialists in areas ranging from psychology to diet and with advice accessible over the phone
it reduced the need to descend on Albury hospital's emergency department
Ms Armstrong's experience is that the dedicated program is no longer and her calls are going to a centralised point with resources not as accessible
Western Victorian Upper House MP Bev McArthur has spoken out in parliament about concerns over changes to patient management at Royal Children's Hospital when it comes to Hirschsprung disease
File picture."Life without the service looks like we would be accessing our local emergency department very regularly where they have no specialist knowledge and the knowledge they have is very basic," she said
"We rely on the clinical nurse consultants and other allied health professionals in the service because they know our children intimately."
A Royal Children's Hospital representative played down changes to the care that colorectal patients would receive
"There is no staffing or funding change to the core medical care that patients with complex colorectal and pelvic conditions receive," a spokeswoman said
"In 2019 the service received one-off federal government project funding
"This funding was used to deliver improvements that will have a long-lasting impact on the model of care we deliver at the RCH."
That explanation has not satisfied Ms Armstrong or Western Victorian Upper House Liberal MP Bev McArthur whose three-year-old grandson Edward receives treatment through the Melbourne hospital after being diagnosed with Hirschsprung disease at 16 days old
The legislative councillor successfully moved a motion in Parliament on Wednesday
calling on the "state government to ensure CPRS continues in its original form to support children and families" and the Health Minister "liaise with the federal Minister for Health to ensure the funding and future of this vital program is safeguarded indefinitely"
One Nation politician Rikkie-Lee Tyrrell read the words of Lavington mum Mel Armstrong into the parliamentary record during debate about specific care
File picture"Why is the hospital trying to lower the gold standard of care already provided to our precious children?" Mrs McArthur said
"It is peanuts - just over a million a year
the letterhead and the furniture for the Minister for Health's office would clearly be higher."
One Nation Northern Victoria MP Rikkie-Lee Tyrrell raised the plight of Ms Armstrong and her daughters
reading the Lavington mum's words onto the parliamentary record
"Families and advocates are already monumentally fatigued by the ongoing management of complex colorectal conditions
and the management of impending changes at RCH has resulted in significant anguish for our family and others," Ms Armstrong told the chamber via Ms Tyrrell
Melbourne-based government member Sonja Terpstra said Victorian Health Minister Mary-Anne Thomas had sought commitments about the colorectal service
"She has said that in terms of our funding support for the hospital
we have not changed our funding support at all and we continue to fund the hospital," Ms Terpstra said
"Ms Thomas has also said that the health service has assured her that the quality and level of service to families would be maintained."
A Victorian government spokesman told The Border Mail "there have been no changes to how we fund care for colorectal patients at the Royal Children's Hospital" and "decisions about clinical care rightly sit with the expert doctors and staff at the Royal Children's Hospital"
Mel Armstrong faces a tricky management regime of her children who are susceptible to illness triggered by their colons not functioning correctly
Picture by Mark JesserSuch comments do not ease the concerns of Ms Armstrong who estimates they have travelled to Melbourne up to 30 times a year for treatment by the service
"We want some explicit information from the Royal Children's Hospital because it's nothing short of playing with our children's health," she said
"This service is the only service in Australia or Asia
it is world-class and supported by practitioners from around the world
"If it was kids' heart disease or diabetes
any of those more palatable things to discuss
the community would demand that it be funded but because it relates to the taboo topic of how we go to the toilet
it gets overlooked and we don't want to talk about it."
Picture suppliedPolice have made an arrest after a man was filmed peering through the window of a Lavington home while a teenage girl was inside
Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueThe man was filmed at the Prune Street property on Thursday
Video footage shows the man walking near the front door multiple times and peering towards a lounge room
A man - who police allege is Christopher Allan Ballantyne - was filmed peering into a home on Prune Street in Lavington on January 30
Picture suppliedThe owner released the video footage on social media and the man was arrested on Friday
Breen Street resident Christopher Allan Ballantyne
remains in custody on two counts of peep or pry after facing court on Saturday
He was already on bail at the time of the alleged peep or pry offence
on a charge of contravening an apprehended violence order
He will return to Albury Local Court on Tuesday
The teen girl's father said he was glad police had quickly made an arrest
I wish I had the balls to go round to his house and beat the s--- out of him
"I feel a lot better now that he's been locked up
The man said the incident was "disturbing" and was concerned the accused man might have also peered into his daughter's bedroom
He said the person appeared to have been "playing with himself" in one of the videos
The man said he had been sent security camera videos from others that appeared to show the same man
He thanked members of their public for their help in identifying the alleged offender
Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueThe Panthers defeated hot favourites Commercial Club by 39 shots in the Ovens and Murray Bowling Association A2 decider last Saturday
The club only joined the O and M in September
at the suggestion of life member 'Bluey' Edwards
The Panthers were promoted to A2 after an unlikely win over Moira in the 2023-24 A3 competition
Lavington has immediately shown an ability to lift to a higher level as it had not beaten its opponents prior to the grand finals and most players were of pensioner age
who were recognised for their hard work over many years
President Bill Collins maintains the club is extremely fortunate to have a large team of volunteers who run the club and maintain the facilities
Lavington Panthers will now be promoted to A1
The club realises the standard will be higher
but has displayed that knack of rising to the challenge
The Panthers also encourage new members and anyone with bowling aspirations to join the welcoming environment
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less than 500 metres from the Hume Highway diamond intersection on Thurgoona Drive
was sold by Andrew Dixon for more than $1.4 million at auction on Friday
Pictures by Phoebe Adams and suppliedA Lavington industrial property near the Hume Highway has fetched close to $1.5 million at auction
Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueThe 9550-square-metre site on Reiff Street
was snapped up by a Border investor for $1,430,000 on Friday
It sits next to the Albury-Wodonga Cleanaway waste services depot and has 130 metres of frontage to Thurgoona Drive and Wagga Road, around 500 metres from the diamond interchange onto the Hume Highway.
The property is leased by machinery rental venture Hume Hire
Auctioneer Andrew Dixon, of Dixon Commercial Real Estate
which was followed by bids of $50,000 to lift it to $1.3 million and get the property on the market
A rise of $30,000 came next and was trumped by a $25,000 offer to $1.355 million
Two parties continued to vie for the property with bids varying from $5000 to $15,000 to take the price beyond $1.4 million until it eventually sold for $1.43 million
This almost 10,000-square-metre industrial site on Reiff Street in Lavington
close to Wagga Road and Thurgoona Drive sold for $1.43 million on Friday
Picture suppliedThe property was owned by Border-based NVP Properties and has a net annual rental income of more than $75,000
Mr Dixon said it was a strong result and followed his agency's sale of another industrial site on nearby Hudson Crescent for $1.29 million on March 28
"It's a big industrial site with a good tenant and scope for rental growth," he said
"Places like Albury-Wodonga are not going to go backwards and the industrial market here is as strong as I've seen it in many years."
Beau Greenway is a journalist at The Border Mail. He likes to tell great stories of people in our communities. Email: beau.greenway@austcommunitymedia.com.au
with the seized vehicle being returned to Albury as part of the police investigation
Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueThe four-year-old non-verbal autistic boy was struck by the white Holden utility about 7am on Dick Road on Friday
The vehicle was seized on Pressnell Lane on January 11
File picture The boy was taken to Albury hospital then flown to the Royal Children's Hospital in Melbourne for treatment
The boy and his mother are expected to stay in Melbourne for some time while the youth recovers from extensive injuries
Off-duty Wodonga Acting Senior Sergeant Justin Foots spotted the car being towed by a blue Mitsubishi Magna the day after the crash
The vehicles were followed from Albury to Pressnell Lane in Wodonga
The driver towing the resprayed Holden utility
was arrested at the scene on unrelated matters
There is white paint visible inside the resprayed utility
File picture Albury Detective Chief Inspector Jy Brown on Wednesday
said the now black utility was being returned to NSW investigators
"The lead of the investigation is the Riverina Crash Investigation Unit," he said
File picture "Their inquiries are continuing
"Obviously I urge anyone in the community who has information about this particular incident to contact Crime Stoppers
How the utility appeared at the time of the crash
and provide us with any information around who may be responsible for being the driver of that vehicle."
When asked about speculation and theories about the incident online
Detective Chief Inspector Brown said investigators had to deal with the facts
pictured outside the Albury station on Wednesday
Picture by Blair Thomson"If people want to speculate
"It's a terrible incident and we want to resolve it."
Officers from the Crash Investigation Unit have remained on the Border during the investigation and were seen making inquiries on Wednesday
Anyone with information can call (02) 6023 9299 or 1800 333 000
File pictureEliza Abbott admits this season feels like a full circle moment after returning to where it all began
Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueAfter four seasons with Thurgoona
Abbott has arrived back in the Ovens and Murray competition with Lavington
Abbott joined the Panthers as a 14-year-old and was last in the club's colours in 2015
Since then, the 32-year-old has welcomed her three kids and gone on to become a two-time club best and fairest winner with the Bulldogs.
"It's definitely a full circle," Abbott said
"I thought after kids I would be done with the Ovens and Murray in terms of the competition that it is
Abbott joins her fiance, Tom Hargreave, at the Panthers and has reunited with some old teammates Sarah Meredith
"It's nice to be back with them," Abbott said
Now Ange's kids are playing and we were talking about all the seasons we played together
"She was my netball coach at school and I was holding her kids
Eliza Abbott playing for the Panthers back in 2010
File picture"It's almost like she's family."
The Panthers have a mix of young and experienced talent this season
Abbott still recalls taking to the court as a teenager last time she was at the club
look at all those amazing women," she said
"I feel like now that I'm back at the club
File pictureLavington has also welcomed back Sarah Riches and coach Sarah Meredith
"Sarah has such a good amount of experience and knowledge and it's so good to have her bringing that to us older ones and the younger ones," Abbott said
"It's so good to have a role model like her."
Former Osborne Tiger Rachael Galvin and Albury Tiger Brooke Dedourek recently made their debuts in the Panthers' nail-biting first-round draw against the Wodonga Bulldogs
"It almost felt like a final towards the end with the pressure," Abbott said
Eliza Abbot spent four seasons at Thurgoona where she was a two-time club best and fairest winner
File picture"There's a few girls in our team who are new to the club or returning
so it's a matter of finding how we play and gelling together
"I'm sure once that comes it will flow smoothly
"I think every single team in the O and M will be tough
You just know that you never have an easy game and you have to bring out your best each week
"It's nice to be back and giving it another crack."
File pictureA man who peered into a Lavington home where a teenage girl was inside will remain behind bars awaiting sentence
Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueChristopher Allan Ballantyne pleaded guilty on Tuesday
to two charges laid after his arrest the day after the incident
defence lawyer Shannon Matchett told magistrate Melissa Humphreys that his client's admissions were to the elements of the charges only
Further discussions would be held with police in order to provide the court with an agreed set of facts over the case
appeared in Deniliquin Local Court via a video link to custody
along with contravention of an apprehended violence order
Ballantyne was filmed at the Prune Street property on Thursday
with the footage showing him walking near the front repeatedly
It also showed Ballantyne peering towards a lounge room
The owner of the house released the video on social media
resulting in Ballantyne's arrest on Friday
He previously said he was concerned Ballantyne might have also peered into his daughter's bedroom
Ballantyne was already on bail over the contravention charge
Ms Humphreys ordered that a duty sentencing report be prepared on Ballantyne by Albury Community Corrections
The case was initially slated to go before Albury Local Court
but was transferred to Deniliquin where it was mentioned in the early afternoon
Mr Matchett applied for bail for his client
Ballantyne will be sentenced in Albury on March 18
magistrate Sally McLaughlin was told that a specialist appointment had been organised for an assessment to be made on a murder accused's fitness to plea
Defence lawyer Rohan Harrison said David Summers-Smith
The issue of Summers-Smith's fitness to plea has been raised at each mention of his case since his arrest about three hours after his alleged stabbing of Royce Anthony Mallett in the car park at the Hume Inn Motel on July 8, 2024, about 6.15pm.
Progression of the case has been slow while the defence undertakes the process of having Summers-Smith undergo assessments for mental health and cognitive impairments
Director of Public Prosecutions representative Michael Camerer provided a charge certificate to the court
Ms McLaughlin then adjourned the matter for a further mention on March 25
Picture by Beau GreenwayA Lavington beauty salon and former Westpac Bank branch has been snapped up at auction for almost $650,000
Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueThe Lousky Day Spa and Beauty site on Urana Road sold under the hammer to a Border investor for $642,500 on Friday
After closing as a Westpac branch in August 2022
the beauty business opened midway through 2023 after a complete fit-out of the building
The auction started with a vendor bid of $580,000 placed by Dixon Commercial Real Estate auctioneer Oscar Dixon
before the first offer came from the crowd at $600,000
Two parties exchanged bids of $10,000 to see it rise to $620,000
and reduced them to $5000 as the property went on the market at $635,000
A third bidder entered the fold and took it to $640,000
before the previous leader hit back with a $2500 rise to win the auction at $642,500
Mr Dixon said it was a great result for the vendor and purchaser
"There's a considerable amount of work that has been done inside," he said
"It's completely different to what the Westpac was
"It was sold to a local buyer and investor
which bodes well for the Border property scene."
An industrial office and warehouse on Premier Close in Wodonga passed in for $500,000 at auction on Friday
a warehouse and office in a sought-after Wodonga industrial estate passed in at auction for $500,000
but sold afterwards for an undisclosed fee above that figure
The 354-square metre site on Premier Close
Stean Nicholls Real Estate auctioneer Kristian Hopwood opened proceedings with a vendor offer of $480,000
Grosvenor Engineering Group leases the property on a month-to-month basis
with an annual rental yield of more than $30,000
"There's attractive neighbours all around it with Premier Building and Construction
and ARC steel on the corner," Mr Hopwood said
When properties of this calibre come onto the market
"Great property plus great location equals great buying."
Dixon Commercial Real Estate sold a 783-square metre industrial property on nearby Reid Street on November 28 for $700,000
File picture by Mark JesserLavington has missed out on a Big Bash League hat-trick
Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueAfter hosting matches for the past two seasons
the venue will be missing when the schedule for the 14th instalment of the Big Bash is unveiled on Friday
Close to 10,000 people packed Lavington Sports Ground to watch Sydney Thunder take on the Melbourne Stars
File picture by Mark JesserBoth matches attracted crowds of about 10,000 but Cricket Australia's general manager
Alistair Dobson confirmed to The Border Mail that Lavington wouldn't feature in this year's fixture while leaving the door ajar for future seasons
"We've had some incredible BBL matches at Lavington and have loved working with the Stars and Thunder to bring the BBL to Albury," Dobson said
"Scheduling decisions are made on a range of factors each year
We would never rule out any possibilities for the future."
Albury Council said the Thunder's matches against the Hurricanes and Stars had pumped about $6 million into the Border economy
and they remained hopeful of securing more top-level sport in the future
Barooga's Ayden Richmann has his shirt signed by Glenn Maxwell
File picture by Mark Jesser"While council is disappointed that Lavington hasn't been chosen to host a BBL match this coming season
we also understand that it would be unrealistic to expect a match every year," Aaron Humphries
"Albury has been fortunate to have hosted a BBL match for the past two years
with the combined associated economic impact of these events approaching $6 million
"We are in regular contact with all major sporting bodies to ensure we continue to capitalise on opportunities to host elite sporting events at the Lavington Sports Ground
"Council is also continuing to invest in the venue to assist in these efforts
including a $2 million resurfacing project scheduled for next year in the recently adopted four-year delivery program."
The Thunder are expected to play four matches at ENGIE Stadium - home of the GWS Giants - up from three last season
which could explain why Lavington missed out
"The work that has gone into improving the venue for fans is incredible and we have some really exciting initiatives planned for this match and right throughout the summer," Sydney Thunder general manager Trent Copeland told Cricket Australia
File picture by Mark JesserThe Big Bash will begin on December 15 with the Scorchers hosting the Stars in Perth
Lavington was also missing as Cricket Australia released the fixture for the WBBL on Tuesday
announcing a shorter season with more games in big stadiums
Eight matches of the 43-game season will be played at the SCG
while another 10 are at Test venues in the WACA and Blundstone Arena
File picture by Mark Jesser"I think we have a pretty good mix this year," Dobson said of the WBBL
"We're only in tier-one or tier-two venues now
We're in either Test venues or iconic WBBL venues
"Our ambition isn't necessarily to move the whole competition into stadiums
because there are different dynamics there."
Xavier started at The Border Mail in Albury-Wodonga in 2001, covering sport and general news before moving to the subs' desk. He was editor of his hometown masthead from 2016 to 2020 before swapping the Murray for Merewether. He returned to The Border Mail as editor in 2023.
Picture suppliedThree Border properties spread across Lavington and Thurgoona have new owners after selling at auction
Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueFour-bedroom homes on Union Road and Janette Court
The house on Union Road attracted bids from six different parties
Offers climbed in $10,000 increments up to $440,000
before they reduced to $5000 to get the property to $455,000
Ray White Albury North auctioneer Alex Pattaro said bidding was "like a game between Carlton and Collingwood"
such was his excitement as an offer of $457,000 was accepted
before $1000 offers were exchanged until the price reached $463,000 and it sold
Selling agent Andrea Lever said it was a premium parcel of land in a great location
but there's a great opportunity for future capital growth," she said
"It has a rental estimate of $475 per week."
Six parties bid for this four-bedroom Lavington home on Union Road
Picture suppliedThe Janette Court home opened at $700,000 and required just two rises of $10,000 before it went on the market and ultimately sold at $720,000
"It's a great lifestyle location and is moments from everything Lavington has to offer," Mrs Lever said
"It has gorgeous district views and a seamless floorplan with multiple living areas throughout the home
Strong interest was also shown in a two-bedroom property on Tambo Court in Thurgoona
A first-up offer of $400,000 came for the home off Thurgoona Drive, less than 500 metres from Thurgoona Plaza.
This two-bedroom home on Tambo Court in Thurgoona was snapped up at auction on Thursday
Picture suppliedThree parties vied for the property with $10,000 bids through to $460,000
before a move to $465,000 saw it on the market
Increases of $2000 and $1000 were soon trumped by an offer of $470,000
Ray White Albury North passed in an "absolute trophy home" on Nottingham Road in Thurgoona's Brooklyn Fields estate after a vendor bid of $730,000
The four-bedroom place was being offered to the market for the first time since its construction in 2021
A two-bedroom home on Pearsall Street, close to Lavington Sports Ground
was also set aside after bidding peaked at $400,000
The property is built on more than 1000 square metres of land and has a weekly rental estimate of $415
Mrs Lever said the Border market continued to perform well
Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinuePeta Hartley was travelling from the Albury suburb to Wodonga at about 9pm on Saturday
with a thin build and brown hair and brown eyes
Her family and police hold concerns for her welfare
issuing the appeal for help on Sunday March 30
Anybody with information is urged to contact the Murray River Police District or phone Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000
The brother was targeted because she claimed he had stolen her vape
File pictureTwo years after stabbing a brother
a young Lavington woman threatened to kill another during a dispute over a vape
Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueElyse Wilson became extremely angry inside the family home in Howlong on December 24
when she suspected the brother had stolen her vape
and argued with him for the rest of the day
he eventually fled to his room and called the police
that Wilson headed outside and knocked on her brother's bedroom window
She then returned inside and into her room
slamming her door so loud that this and Wilson's yelling woke her mother
only to be subjected to a three-minute "rant" about her brother
"I just want to get a knife and kill him," Wilson said
Police told magistrate Sally McLaughlin that this terrified her mother because of Wilson's past behaviour
had pleaded guilty to charges of intimidation and contravention of an apprehended violence order
She also admitted to identical charges laid in relation to matters from early March 2025
MORE COURT STORIES
Defence lawyer Sascha McCorriston made an application for Wilson's charges to be dismissed and for her to be diverted for mental health treatment
under the Mental Health and Cognitive Impairment Forensic Provisions Act 2020
which allows this where a defendant is adjudged to have a mental health or cognitive impairment
But Ms McLaughlin rejected the application
given Wilson's ongoing use of illicit drugs and the resulting impact on her behaviour
The court heard that Wilson had several mental health conditions
But while she did not allow the application
Ms McLaughlin determined it would be in Wilson's best interests if she was referred to the MERIT program - the Magistrates Early Referral Into Treatment for drugs and alcohol program
Wilson's case was adjourned for two weeks to allow that to happen
Ms McCorriston agreed it was a sensible step
Police told the court Wilson had struggles with substance abuse and her mental health
Wilson was served with an apprehended violence order where her mother
was named as the person in need of protection
Wilson was with her family at their home in Victoria Street
she became angry with her other brother "as she believed he had stolen her vape"
He fled to his room and called the police and soon afterwards
Wilson told her mother she wanted to kill him
they spoke to Wilson as she made self-harm threats
Wilson was taken to Albury hospital for assessment
but released back to the family home that night
the mother was subject to several "confronting texts and images" from Wilson
She threatened to self-harm if her mother didn't respond
Wilson then sent her a video of her cutting her arm
She continued with like messages over the coming days
Wilson left her mother four voice messages
Further such threats were made in the messages that followed
The mother reported her daughter to the Albury police about 3.40pm
Wilson was arrested at her then residence of the Albury Central Tourist Park about 7pm
Proud Cook Islander Melani Lavington has packed a lot into her life
overcoming adversities to raise 10 children and train as a nurse
Melani is bringing her unique cultural perspective and expertise in palliative care to the development of the Coomera Hospital
What has been your involvement or function at Coomera Hospital
As a trained clinician who is enthusiastic about providing adequate palliative care
I also had the opportunity to introduce a more effective palliative approach to New South Wales Health at a rural facility
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Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueThe Panthers had lost their first game of the past three seasons
but restricted the visitors to one goal after half-time to record an 11.13 (79) to 3.8 (26) home win
so it was a pleasing start," coach Adam Schneider said of the early-season losses
Schneider fell to Corowa-Rutherglen by three points in his 2022 debut
six points to Wodonga the following season and the same margin to Wodonga Raiders last year
The Panthers were the quietest club with their off-season recruiting and many outsiders do not think they will challenge for the top five
However, last year's joint best and fairest Jack Costello declared last month the team had changed its game plan with a greater emphasis on speed and the youthful Panthers showed that in a scintillating performance
"(Alex) Swinnerton was very good for us as a small forward
Charlie Douglas in his first game for the club was good
we probably had 22 who could hold their hand up and say they did their best for the win," Schneider outlined
Defender Jesse Hart and VFL player Nick Newton were also prominent
The home team had four goalkickers with two apiece
including boom Riverina Football League recruit Ed Perryman
skipper Charlie Morrison and co-vice-captain Matt Soroczynski were the Bulldogs' best
but their display was the poorest of the 10 clubs in Round 1
The output of only 26 points was the lowest of the weekend
guys too eager to get into the game," co-coach Jack O'Sullivan suggested
"We butchered the footy by foot and hand and never gave ourselves a chance to get our game going offensively."
while classy forward Jett Cassidy was limping after the game
Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinue'Browney' passed away on Sunday after a battle with cancer
The club stalwart was a much loved 'straight shooter'
"He called a spade a shovel," fellow life member Steve 'Chuck' Chalmers said
And that extended to his own health battles
'I know I'm dying and I don't want any tears
let's just get on with it'," Lavington president Peter Barwick offered
"'Browney' was more than happy to do anything
any time you needed something or wanted a hand
he made an enormous impact in his more than two decades at the club
serving as secretary (2005-06) and two stints as treasurer
with a longer stay on the general committee
"He did much of the ordering for the canteen and made sure the club got the best deal
he was always looking out for the club," Chalmers added
"'Browney' also had a very deep sense of humour
"You'd watch him when things were going on around him and he'd have a little smile to himself
he'd never been in the footy and netball culture
he didn't quite understand with the 'netty' the way they have their trials and early doors he might have come across as cranky
'why don't you pick your best players in their age group and just work through the teams like that'
so it was a running joke through the club that if there are any netball issues
we'll get our netball liaison officer 'Browney' on to it (laughs)."
Barwick has just started his second term as president after an 11-year stint from 2009 and remains forever grateful for 'Browney's' support
it would make life that much easier," he praised
travelled together with their families on holidays
"His mate owns a pub on the coast and he said to me one night
I would have been on a totally different path'," Lawrence recalled proudly
"'Browney' would coach the young boys at basketball tournaments
"His brother-in-law said the same thing about 'Browney'
there's a lot of kids in better spots because of him."
granddaughter Matilda and extended families
The funeral service will be held in The Hume Chapel
Following the service the cortege will leave for burial at Glenmorus Gardens
Glenmorus Street (end of Union Rd) Glenroy
Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueOff-duty Wodonga Acting Senior Sergeant Justin Foots spotted the now black Holden VF ute being towed in East Albury about 4.10pm on Saturday
Police have seized a resprayed Holden utility that struck a four-year-old boy on Dick Road in Lavington
The car had been towed to Pressnell Lane in Wodonga on Saturday afternoon
which was white when it struck the four-year-old boy on Dick Road in Lavington on Friday morning
Acting Senior Sergeant Foots called 000 and followed the utility to a business on Pressnell Lane in Wodonga
White paint remains visible on parts of the car
which had damage to the front passenger side and was being towed on a U-Haul trailer
The car had been resprayed black but white paint was still visible in the car's interior
The mirrors were damaged and the windscreen had a "such is life" motif
Picture suppliedThe wheels had also been changed
A blue Mitsubishi Magna used to tow the ute and trailer was also seized
The driver was taken into custody on unrelated matters
The now black ute was towed for forensic testing
Picture by Blair ThomsonThe utility had fake manufactured Victorian plates that are not registered to any vehicle
Officers from the NSW Crash Investigation Unit attended Pressnell Lane on Saturday afternoon and are conducting inquiries
Picture by Blair ThomsonOfficers could be seen photographing the utility
The seized vehicles will be forensically examined
A Mitsubishi Magna used to transport the vehicle was also seized
Picture by Blair ThomsonPolice continue to investigate the matter
Police had urged the driver to hand themselves in.
How the ute appeared on Friday. Picture suppliedThe boy remains in The Royal Children's Hospital with major injuries.
Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueWhy should residents have their say?Council will be using the community feedback to guide their decision for the replacement of the Lavington Swim Centre
This decision will have significant implications for the future development of Albury's aquatic facilities
It is important for all residents to have their say
The decision will impact Albury's ability to provide aquatic facilities in Thurgoona and a year-round regional aquatic facility for Lauren Jackson Sports Centre
Stephen Mamouney believes that overspending on Lavington Swim Centre would be a mistake. File pictureWhy does the Lavington pool need replacing?The Lavington Swim Centre was constructed in 1967
the structure and plant is worn out and we have been fortunate it has lasted this long
Council has $16 million put aside for its replacement
It is important for the facility to be replaced to ensure the Lavington community continues to have access to safe water for families to enjoy
It is an important community swimming amenity
The consulting architects engaged have provided four concept design options
that could be constructed initially or in stages
These are all seasonal facilities (that is
The have your say survey asks community members to choose from one of the above four options
There is room for additional feedback and ideas
however no allowance for choosing an alternative option
such as building a replacement like-for-like facility within the funding budget
What has not been considered in the concept designs is the original brief for the replacement of a like-for-like facility within the budget set aside
Albury City has around $16 million put aside for the project and may qualify for up to $5 million in extra grant funding
It is important that all residents express their views on the proposed replacement of the Lavington pool
Either by providing feedback on the have your say survey or alternatively by writing to Albury Council
The four options proposed range in cost estimates of between $31 million and $51 million
between two and three times the funding available
Spending too much on this project will likely mean increased rates
delay or cancellation of other infrastructure projects
and the deferral of the development of Thurgoona's community swimming facilities as well as any proposal for a year-round regional swimming facility for Albury
What do the people of Albury want and how will overspending at Lavington affect other community priorities
Do the range of options represent good value for the community
We can request the council to go back to the consulting architects to provide a design in line with the original brief of a like-for-like facility
Residents may have other ideas and they are encouraged to express these through the have your say survey
It is interesting to note options three and four include a dedicated 25mx30m water polo pool
Presently on the Border we have two very good seasonal water polo pools
we do not need to spend more at Lavington for another
Work is progressing at Lauren Jackson Sports Centre
File pictureWhat are the long-term plans for aquatics in Albury?Albury's population is growing in Thurgoona
Thurgoona will require a seasonal community aquatic centre to cater for its growing population and community needs in the near future
If Albury overcapitalises on its expenditure for Lavington
then funding the Thurgoona aquatic facilities will become more difficult
Albury ought to invest in a regional year-round aquatic facility
and whilst this amenity will need to attract significant state and federal funding before it is contemplated
over-capitalisation on the Lavington Swim Centre
will likely push the idea of having a year-round swimming complex in Albury off into the distant future once again
as it also includes much of the infrastructure for the basketball courts
and incorporation of the PCYC and car parking
A far better measure of what the year-round facility may cost is a reference to like facilities recently constructed or about to be constructed:
As the Lauren Jackson Sports Centre proposal involves a regional swimming complex it qualifies for a greater share of state and federal government funding. The project ought not be contemplated until such funding was available. However, if Albury was to overcapitalise at Lavington
the idea of a regional year-round aquatic amenity would be likely consigned to the bottom drawer
a year-round facility located alongside Lauren Jackson Sports Centre and the PCYC would attract significantly more visitors and consequently bring down the average usage cost considerably as compared to our seasonal swimming pools
it makes more sense to spend our infrastructure capital on a year-round facility located close to other amenities
when it qualifies for state and federal funding
Picture by James WiltshireA Lavington business has been broken into three times this month with the store owner concerned about the community's safety
Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueThe rear outdoor area used for storage and accepting deliveries at Murray Indian Groceries on Urana Road was first broken into on December 8
December 28 and in the early hours of Sunday
Owner Charanjit Bhullar said the items stolen varied, with a pressure washer taken during the first break-in
his 11-year-old son's new basketball hoop stolen the second time
my son was crying last night [December 28] because of the hoop," he said
The plants also taken included vegetables and chillis
"It's a really odd thing to steal," Mr Bhullar said, who also owns Lavi Fish and Chips and Authentic Taste of India in Albury with his wife Ramandeep
The back outdoor area of the shop is secured with fencing and a locked gate
Mr Bhullar, who has owned the store since 2017, has not previously had his business broken into and is concerned it could happen again, or other neighbouring businesses could be impacted.
"We're worried because we're in a really quiet area, at night as well, and there are no lights in the street [at the back of the shop]," he said.
A fence at the rear of Murray Indian Groceries in Lavington was damaged after three separate break-ins during December. Picture by James WiltshireHe says that as a small family business, he understands he may sometimes face issues, but as the break-ins feel targeted, he wants to speak up because he is concerned for the community.
Mr Bhullar's son Harshaan hopes whoever stole his basketball hoop will return it.
"It was really terrible, I didn't like that they stole my basketball hoop," he said.
"It was very good to me, but now that I lost it, it's really sad, and I don't feel that good about it."
He received the hoop only a few months ago as he enjoys spending time outside shooting baskets.
Mr Bhullar has reported the break-ins to the police and will be installing more security footage outside.
NSW Police are aware of a break-and-enter occurring at the Urana Road business on Saturday, December 28.
"Officers attached to Murray River Police District have commenced an investigation into the incident," a police spokesperson said.
"As inquiries continue, anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000."
Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueSheather has played 31 state level games over the past four years after battling ankle and foot injuries
"It's a real positive for the club, we're excited, hopefully he can fit a handful of games in with us when he gets the opportunity," Panthers' coach Adam Schneider said
Sheather spent three years with the Sydney Swans from 2021
but moved to the Giants last year where he played 10 games
he's had a good start to the pre-season with a couple of games in the VFL
he'll fit in nicely with our guys," Schneider offered
The Panthers have snared a full-time player in Paddy Ryan
He moved from Wagga Tigers to North Adelaide last year where he played five reserves matches
"He spent the year in the SANFL with (former Lavington on-baller) Ewan Mackinlay
but wanted to come back and still play a high level of footy," Schneider outlined
"He has an elite running capacity and is a good kid."
Lavington will play Turvey Park in a practice match in Wagga on Saturday
followed by Ganmain-Grong Grong-Matong (venue TBC
The Panthers start the Ovens and Murray Football Netball League season at home against Wodonga on April 12
File pictureUPDATE NSW Police have confirmed a 39-year-old man reported missing from Lavington has now been located
Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinue"Police would like to thank the public and the media for their assistance," police said on Wednesday morning
EARLIER Police are calling on the public for help to track down a missing Border man
Murray River Police District officers have issued an appeal for the 39-year-old
Police were notified after he was unable to be contacted and are continuing to investigate his disappearance
Both family and police are concerned for his welfare
NSW Police issued a description and image of the missing man as part of the appeal for assistance
Police have asked the public not to report information via NSW Police social media pages
Picture by Blair ThomsonA motorbike rider has been hospitalised after a crash involving a car in Lavington
Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueEmergency crews were called to the incident at the intersection of Union Road and Bralgon Street about 6.30am on Friday
at the scene of the September 20 collision
A NSW Ambulance spokeswoman said she had multiple injuries
The rider was taken to Albury hospital for treatment
The male driver was assessed but had no injuries
Emergency crews have also cleared the scene of a two-truck crash on the Hume Highway on Friday morning
The vehicles crashed in the southbound lanes at Mullengandra about 4am
but the incident blocked both southbound lanes
The damaged vehicles have been removed and both lanes are open
Picture suppliedUPDATE Police have nominated some Albury streets as part of their appeal for dashcam footage as officers investigate a Lavington hit-run on Friday
Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueAnyone with dashcam footage who might have been travelling between Racecourse Road and the Hume Highway at Lavington
or who saw a white Holden utility in the area
is asked to contact Albury police or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000
EARLIER Police have urged the driver of a white Holden utility to hand themselves in following a Lavington hit-run that left a four-year-old boy critically injured.
Medical staff were preparing to fly the critically injured boy to the Royal Children's Hospital on Friday afternoon following the Dick Road hit and run at 7am
Police have released an image of the offender's vehicle and Inspector Scott Russell said if the driver had a conscience
was travelling south on Dick Road when they hit the boy on January 10
helped the four-year-old before emergency workers arrived
Inspector Scott Russell urged the driver to hand themselves in
Picture by Blair ThomsonThe driver failed to stop his white Holden utility
which had black rims and appeared to be a VF model
There have been no further sightings of the vehicle reported to police
and investigators are seeking public help to locate the car and driver
"An incident involving a hit-run where you've left a young four-year-old on the road
that driver needs to have a conscience and come forward," Chief Inspector Russell said
his mum was there on scene and is with him in hospital
"What we're asking for is that driver comes forward
"Leaving the scene of an accident where a four-year-old child has been seriously injured
Picture by Blair ThomsonInvestigators have spoken to several witnesses
"We thank them for that," Chief Inspector Russell said
Chief Inspector Russell said the injuries weren't thought to be life-threatening
He said all drivers had an obligation to stop and render assistance after a crash and said anyone with information could contact police or Crime Stoppers
Dick Road had been blocked to traffic but has reopened
Picture suppliedAn early start to drinking a carton of beer culminated just a couple of hours later in a man driving a work ute through the wall of a Lavington unit
Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueBy the time he took to the wheel of the 1998 Toyota HiLux
Scott Christie Osteraas had managed to down 12 of the Carlton Dry 375 millilitre stubbies
The remaining 12 in the box were left wanting back home when Osteraas lost control of the ute as he took a sharp right-hand turn into Webb Street
The ute smashed into the front brick wall of a unit
The Toyota, Albury Local Court heard on Wednesday
Bricks were strewn throughout the lounge room
His windscreen smashed but the driver seemingly unperturbed
Osteraas reversed the ute back onto the road and drove the short distance to his home - also in Webb Street
Police said some of the bricks were still on the bonnett of the Toyota
falling off and causing a traffic hazard as he drove away
Not only did he leave bricks everywhere and an almighty mess - the damage bill from Osteraas's drunken crash was estimated at $300,000
pleaded guilty to charges of driving a vehicle under the influence of alcohol
dangerous driving and not give particulars to the owner of damaged property
Defence lawyer Jaimee Simonsen submitted that a sentence assessment report would assist the court
pointing out the "seriousness" of the offences - especially the first two charges
The court was told how Osteraas drove to the Bottlemart outlet at the Springdale Heights Tavern on January 12
Picture suppliedHe bought his carton of 24 Carlton Dry stubbies
Osteraas got in the HiLux - it was just before 10.30am - and headed to the IGA supermarket
a few moments later he returned to the ute and drove off
Osteraas flashed his vehicle's headlights at a motorist heading towards him
He then did the sharp turn into Webb Street and crashed
which the other man witnessed as he followed him
Osteraas stayed only briefly at home before reversing back out into Webb Street and going a short distance before parking in front of the Lavington Anglers Club
opened a passenger door and retrieved some items
then walked towards Wagga Road via a bush reserve
the witness reported the incident to police
who went to his home after receiving information that he had returned
Osteraas opened the front door and was promptly arrested and taken to the Albury police station
When asked what he had done after drinking the first 12 cans
Osteraas said he "drove through some wall on Webb Street"
The experience turned him off making a start on drinking the rest of the beers
and he was "fidgety" and slurring his words
where blood and urine samples were taken and precautionary X-rays and a CT scan were carried out
Ms McLaughlin adjourned sentencing for six weeks
who appears to have been photographed walking on Wagga Road near Kaylock Road in Lavington
Picture suppliedPolice are seeking public assistance to identify two men after separate assaults in Albury and Lavington
Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueOne man
A second man is being sought over a March assault in Albury
Picture suppliedHe appears to have a beard and glasses
A second man is being sought over an Albury assault in March
He appears to be in a shopping centre and wearing a blue shirt
In other news, a Wodonga shopping centre was evacuated on Tuesday, April 8, due to a fire breaking out in a freezer
Picture by James WiltshireView +6 PhotosPictures by James WiltshireNew Lavington Football Netball Club president Peter Barwick has stressed developing juniors remains the club's mantra
Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueAn enormously popular figure at the Panthers
Barwick returns to the top role after a decade from 2009
"I retired (from work) last January and (president) Mark (Sanson) had had enough and they were looking for someone
so I thought if I took it on a for a couple of years
I'm hoping someone will be interested and we can guide them through it," he said
Barwick will utilise his previous experience
we had a really good committee with great operators and businessmen
they were the backbone of the committee and now we have some new members," he explained
The Panthers have not made the top five since their last premiership in 2019 and will again look to youth to rejoin the finalists
we're very lucky we've got a very good coach who's very good with kids," he added
Sydney Swans premiership player Schneider starts his fourth year at the club
One of his young guns in Jesse Hart is still recovering from a late season knee injury
"I originally did it against North Albury when an opponent chopped my arm and I landed awkwardly
but was able to play the rest of the game," he revealed
"The next game I got caught in a tackle and swung to ground
it locked up and I couldn't move for the next couple of days
"There was cartilage damage and bone bruising
but changing direction and my kicking haven't come back yet
so I'll take it easy leading up to Christmas
but I'll be flying into pre-season 'praccice' matches."
is one of a number of juniors who had breakout seasons
including joint best and fairest and fellow teen Jack Costello
"It's super exciting, another year of maturity in us young fellas, with guys like Tom (Hargreave), 'Spoons' (Jono Spina) and Chris Annett
there's enough experience to lead the way," Hart offered
Picture suppliedTwo properties in North Albury and Lavington have sold at auction for more than $1 million combined
Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueA three-bedroom
one-bathroom home on Kokoda Street in North Albury fetched $580,000 on Tuesday
Built close to Bunton Park and within walking distance of Lavington Square shopping centre
Albury North Public School and James Fallon High School
the property attracted 17 registered bidders
Among its features is an open-plan kitchen and dining area
with a gas log fireplace and ducted heating and cooling keeping the home at a comfortable temperature year round
The backyard features a large powered shed and outdoor entertaining area
Selling agent Andrea Lever, of Ray White Albury North
said the home was sold to a city-based investor
Meanwhile, a Border-based buyer owner-occupier won an auction involving five registered bidders for a renovated two-bedroom home on Nagle Road in Lavington
The bathroom is a feature of a renovated home on Nagle Road
Picture suppliedThe property between Kaitlers and Wagga roads was sold under the hammer for $445,000
The bedrooms both have ceiling fans and built-in wardrobes installed
"Both properties sold significantly higher than the reserve prices," Mrs Lever said
"It's been an incredibly strong first quarter of the year
File picturesHowlong has secured the prized signature of Lavington ruckman Tim Hanna in a massive boost to its finals credentials
Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueHanna had been linked to joining several district league clubs for the past few off-seasons before remaining at Lavington Sports Ground
The Border Mail believes Hanna also weighed-up offers from Osborne
Holbrook and Rutherglen before opting to join the Spiders over the weekend
Hanna boasts more than 100-matches of O&M experience after arriving at Lavington from Hay in 2017 and at 28
Howlong co-coach Matt McDonald has enjoyed a productive off-season on the recruiting front after missing finals last season
Picture by James WiltshireHowlong co-coach Matt McDonald was understandably ecstatic to land a recruit the calibre of Hanna who should stamp himself to be among the top-ten players in the competition if he produces his best form
"Big Tim is a very good player in the O&M and has played more than 100-matches at Lavington
so as a club we are obviously pretty excited about signing him," McDonald said
"It's a bit like winning the recruiting lotto I guess you could say
"It's probably no secret that we heavily targeted Tim last year and had some in-depth discussions about playing in the Hume league
"Tim decided to have one more season at Lavington last year so it is satisfying to finally secure his signature
"After chasing Timmy for the past couple of seasons
he has been honest to deal with and put a lot of thought into this move
"Talking to Tim he has spent seven years at Lavington and wants to take a step back from the rigours of playing in the O&M
are expecting the arrival of their second child which was also a factor in his decision
they will fit in well at the club with quite a lot of the players in a similar situation."
1 ruckman for several seasons and has played more than 100-matches with the O&M club
Picture by Phoebe AdamsThe departure of Hanna is a savage blow to the Panthers' hopes of returning to finals for the first time since winning the flag in 2019
They lack an obvious replacement for Hanna although former junior and Holbrook ruckman Jayden Hucker has been training with the Panthers over the pre-season despite re-signing with the Brookers
McDonald is hoping Hanna can have a similar impact to former ruckman Peter Hancock who won the Azzi medal in 2013 and 2016 after also joining the Spiders from Lavington
"Tim is only 28 and I think Howlong was blessed to have Peter Hancock for such a long time who was the dominant big man in the competition," he said
"Since Pete retired, we haven't had that dominant big man until probably last season when Sasha Newnham enjoyed a breakout year and stamped himself in the ruck
"Sasha won our best and fairest and probably doesn't get the plaudits he deserves externally but internally we rate him highly."
Hanna is expected to spend plenty of time in attack for the Spiders who boast three ruckmen with Sasha Newnham and Isaac Bunge
Picture by James WiltshireMcDonald revealed that he may not necessarily utilise Hanna as the Spiders' No
1 ruckman and that he could prove to be a dangerous proposition as a key forward
The Spiders are expected to boast one of the best big man combinations in the competition with Hanna
Newnham and Isaac Bunge all recognised ruckmen
Bunge only played nine senior matches last season due to work commitments but is expected to be available for a lot more matches this season and is a lot fitter after a big pre-season
"I think Tim has a lot to offer as a key forward," McDonald said
"I certainly won't be playing him as a full-time ruckman
"He will get an opportunity up forward in a bid to stretch the opposition's defence
Hanna doesn't mind throwing his weight around and should provide an imposing presence for the Spiders
Picture by James Wiltshire"Speaking to Tim
playing as a forward is something that he is looking forward to
"He probably had to shoulder a lot of the ruckwork at Lavington but playing as a forward is a different challenge
"Sasha is growing in confidence as a ruckman and they have got different qualities
"Sasha has got a massive engine who runs all day while Timmy is a brilliant tap ruckman and they will complement each other really well
"There are a couple of other good big man combinations in the competition with Madden (Dan) and Schmetzer (Hugh) at Osborne and Bye (Zach) and Findley (Tom) at Jindera
Newnham and Bunge we certainly have got a big man combination that rival clubs will find hard to match."
McDonald is hopeful of securing at least one more signing in the coming weeks
Picture by Blair ThomsonA driver is on the run after hitting a four-year-old boy with a white utility in Lavington and fleeing the scene
Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueThe boy's condition remains unclear on Friday morning
but he suffered a possible head injury during the January 10 incident
Police on Dick Road in Lavington after a boy
Picture by Blair ThomsonEmergency crews were called to Dick Road about 7am
Police were told the boy had been hit by a white utility and the driver left the scene without stopping
Detectives remain at the scene on January 10
Picture by Blair Thomson"NSW Ambulance paramedics treated a four-year-old boy at the scene for a possible head injury
before he was taken to Albury hospital," a police spokeswoman said
"Officers attached to Murray River Police District responded and have established a crime scene
Picture by Blair Thomson"Dick Road between Cheyenne Drive and Boomerang Drive remains closed."
Police have urged the driver of the white utility to make contact "as they may be able to assist with investigations"
A NSW Ambulance spokesman said paramedics were called to the scene a short time after 7am
The boy suffered head and back injuries and was in a stable condition when transported to hospital
Picture suppliedA caravan has been destroyed by fire at a property in Lavington and a man taken to hospital
Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueFirefighters were called to a Chant Street property after a derelict caravan went up in flames about 3.30pm on Tuesday
Thick black smoke pours from the caravan at a Chant Street property in Lavington on Tuesday afternoon
Picture suppliedPhotographs from the scene show thick black smoke coming from the structure
which was located near long grass next to a shed
Firefighters contained the incident and the resident was assessed by paramedics
A man who lives in a home on the property was hospitalised
Picture by Blair ThomsonHe was hospitalised with minor burns
A neighbour had spotted the fire and called 000
Picture by Blair Thomson"I've previously reported to council overgrowth on the land
but I think they can't do much about it because it's on private land
"It's always been a great concern of mine."
The caravan has been abandoned for several years
Firefighters have attended previous incidents at the property
which is surrounded by paddocks with long grass
Picture by Blair ThomsonFire and Rescue NSW Superintendent Stewart Alexander said two crews from the agency responded with Rural Fire Service firefighters
"It's important people have working smoke alarms no matter where they reside
whether that's a house or a caravan in this case," he said
A policeman and fireman near the burnt out caravan
Picture by Blair Thomson"Fire spreads very quickly in caravans so it's critically important to have working smoke alarms."
A NSW Ambulance spokesman said the occupant had been taken to Albury hospital in a stable condition
The man's burns were considered to be minor
Police could be seen examining the burnt-out caravan
The caravan is located a short distance from a shed