Moama is flying high after a fourth consecutive Murray Football League victory
The final margin of 35 points belies the tightness of what was an enthralling contest until a late Magpies barrage secured their victory
the visitor may have thought it was in for an easy afternoon as it built a significant first quarter lead
After Tongala kicked the first of the game through Mitch Heywood
Moama would respond with four straight to lead 4.0 (24) to 1.1 (7) at the break
Hopes of putting the game to bed early were dashed in the second period as a reinvigorated Blues came out firing
kicking four consecutive goals to claim the lead
and Kaydn Mislicki added another shortly before the half to see the Mowers take a two-point advantage into the half
The scoring shots weren’t sailing true off the boot for much of the third
but it was still all to play four in the final period
the Blues faltered slightly to start the final term
putting the game out of reach with the first four majors
The sides traded two apiece over the remaining minutes
but Moama had done enough to score the win
There were three four-goal efforts across the two teams
Ky Stovel and Fraser Verhey leading the way for the Magpies
while Dear was the only Blue to kick multiple majors
Moama is well-positioned to extend its winning streak to five ON Saturday as it takes on the league’s remaining winless side
the 1-4 Tongala has a week off to prepare for a visit to Cobram on May 17
by Media Team on February 11
Coinciding with BPL21 in Moama will be the second running of the Junior BPL Challenge where some of the best young talent in Australia will take to the greens in a BPL Cup style format
The brainchild of the Moama Bowling Club and Club Sunbury
the competition will see eleven of the twelve franchises field teams with Bowls ACT sending a team in place of the Perth Suns
Among the talented crop of individuals are a plethora of players involved in the State Based Jackaroos Academies that are aiming to climb the rungs towards the status of becoming a Right at Home Jackaroo in the future
The age criteria for the competition is that every player must be 18 or under as of February 21
Defending champions in the Melbourne eXtreme will field a completely new lineup consisting of 2024 Australian Open Under-18 Girl’s champion Akasha Fortune
Victorian National Schools Championships representative Joshua Leszczynski and Eridani Wheeler
After going down to the eXtreme in a tiebreak in the 2024 event
the Moama Steamers will see two returning players striving to go one better in Josh Cartwright and Addy Ryan
with Queensland under-18 representative Todd Brain joining the team with Monique Crothhers
The Adelaide Pioneers will bring an abundance of quality with emerging stars Charlie Hicks and Anda Panchawat named in the team alongside Kobe Jarman
Panchawat made the Australian Open girl’s singles decider last year and Hicks has represented his state with distinction already
After winning the title with the eXtreme last February
Jonty Hayes will represent the Tweed Ospreys in the 2025 competition alongside up and coming star Lilly Vardy and Ashton Vardy
The Gold Coast Hawks have come out swinging with its foundation team
son of former Jackaroo and current Hawk Nathan
son of former Australian representative Anthony
Lining up with them will be Skye Peters and Xavier Parkinson
The Geelong Jets have listed a phenomenal squad that includes 2024 Australian Open boy’s champion Koby Cromie
as well as Nationals junior champions Chanel Chakouch and Charlie Boswood
a previous champion at The Nationals and Australian Open
will be a prominent feature in the Moreton Bay Pirates squad
linking up with his Queensland teammate Trent Brehmer and Logan Hughes
The Sydney Saints will see New South Wales under-18 representative Jasmine Smith in the team
Their crosstown rivals in the Sydney Lions have named Peytan Bunn
the Tasmania Tridents will field Riley Davie
Oliver Morrison and Miley Sutton and the Melbourne Pulse have named Jack Wardrope
VIEW THE SCHEDULE HERE
The Junior BPL Challenge will be played at the Moama Bowling Club from February 20-21
30th April 2025 Rising Stars Named for 2025 National Development SeriesThe future of Australian bowls will be on full display this
26th April 2025 2025 World Bowls Indoor Championships: Final day recapAustralia’s Jack McShane has been crowned the 2025 World Bowls Indoor
25th April 2025 2025 World Bowls Indoor Championships: Day 5 wrapAustralia still remains in the hunt for a gold medal at
Subscribe to Bowls Australia's official e-newsletter
Two Marine Rescue NSW vessels and almost a dozen volunteers from Marine Rescue Moama will tomorrow continue the search for a missing male boater last seen on the Murray River near Five Mile boat ramp just before 7:30pm Tuesday 14 January
Marine Rescue NSW Inspector Stuart Massey said volunteers from the Moama unit were stood down for the day at 6:15pm Wednesday
Our crew resumed the search at 7am on board Marine Rescue NSW vessel Moama 20 before switching craft and using a six-metre flat bottom punt rescue vessel X 20 to assist Victoria Police divers
“X 20 provided a solid platform for Victoria Police divers with all their equipment to search the waterway and will do so again tomorrow
“Both Moama 20 and X 20 will resume the search at 8am tomorrow (Thursday 16 January) while the Marine Rescue Moama base is being used a command post by police,” he said
“Boaters are being reminded that a section of the river will be closed while divers are in the water,” Inspector Massey said
One of the largest real-time multi-agency search and rescue exercises (SAREX) to ever be held on the NSW coast has been labelled a success by Marine Rescue NSW
A volunteer crew from Marine Rescue Newcastle navigated darkness and a fast-flowing run-out tide overnight to rescue a stranded sailor four nautical miles (7.4 km) south of Nobbys Head
Forgot your password?
A body has been found during the search for a missing boater on the Murray River in the state’s south
officers from Murray River Police District and officers from Victoria Police responded to reports a 23-year-old man disappeared after falling from a boat near Five Mile boat ramp
A multi-agency search commenced involving Murray River Police District
Victoria Police and Marine Rescue NSW but was suspended about 8.45pm due to poor visibility
About 8.30am yesterday (Wednesday 15 January 2025)
the search resumed with officers attached to Murray River Police District
police divers from NSW and Victoria Police
NSW Marine Rescue NSW and SES and continued until 7.30pm yesterday; however there was no sign of the man
About 7am today (Thursday 16 January 2025) the multi-agency search resumed
the body of a man was located south of the Five Mile boat ramp by Victoria Police divers
but is believed to be that of the missing 23-year-old male
Our crew resumed the search at 7am on board Marine Rescue NSW vessel Moama 20before switching craft and using a six-metre flat bottom punt rescue vessel X 20 to assist Victoria Police divers
“Both Moama 20 and X 20 will resume the search at 8am tomorrow (Thursday 16 January) while the Marine Rescue Moama base is being used a command post by police
Marine Rescue NSW is a volunteer based not-for-profit professional organisation dedicated to keeping boaters safe on the water and supporting local communities
Volunteers from Marine Rescue Moama resumed the multi-agency search for a missing male boater on the Murray River near Moama this morning
Marine Rescue NSW Inspector Stuart Massey said volunteers were back on water at 7am
“After searching for almost two hours last night
our volunteers are continuing the search on board Moama 20
“They have been searching a stretch of the Murray River around Five Mile boat ramp and will continue to do so until instructed otherwise by NSW Police Marine Area Command,” Inspector Massey said
Volunteers from Marine Rescue Moama spent 1 hour and 45 minutes searching a section of the Murray River for a missing male boater this evening (Tuesday 14 January)
Marine Rescue NSW Inspector Stuart Massey said the Service was alerted just after 7:30pm that a man from a boat was last seen on the Murray River near Five Mile boat ramp at Moama
“A volunteer crew was quickly assembled and Marine Rescue NSW vessel Moama 20 deployed
“Moama 20 conducted numerous sweeps of the area under the direction of NSW Police Marine Area Command
“The Marine Rescue NSW crew was stood down for the night at 9:45pm
“Volunteers and vessels from Marine Rescue Moama will be back on water to continue the search at 8am tomorrow (Wednesday 15 January),” Inspector Massey said
Δdocument.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value"
Δdocument.getElementById( "ak_js_2" ).setAttribute( "value"
The Echuca Moama District Parkinson’s Group will be hosting a Parkinson’s seminar on Thursday
The event aims to connect community members with local services and other support groups
Committee member Sue Solly said there had been growing interest in the event
we’ve had a good response so far,” she said
“We’re working with the Kyabram support group as well as ours and really trying to engage with people who aren’t aware of what’s available
putting brochures right across a lot of places
and people are really pleased that we’re doing something.”
The day will start at 10am with a light morning tea
allowing guests time to register and settle in
the group will start by sharing information on local support groups from Echuca and Kyabram and the services they provide
an educational Zoom session will be held with the ‘Fight Parkinson’s’ organisation
A representative will speak about what the organisation does
the resources it offers and its free services
an interactive session with a speech pathologist will start at 11.30am
The guest speaker will also touch on what Kyabram District Health Service offers in support
another interactive session will begin at 1.15pm with a physiotherapist from Hopwood Gardens
They will speak about the other health services available through the Hopwood Centre at Echuca Regional Health
a Q and A session will begin and guests will have the chance to ask the panel of presenters any questions they may have
An afternoon tea will be served after the session to finish off the event
allowing guests time to socialise with one another
The seminar was made possible through a $950 Seniors Program Grant from Campaspe Shire Council
with an extra $500 to be covered by the group through fundraising efforts
The Echuca Workers Club will also be donating the use of the venue for the event
registrations are essential for catering purposes
Marine Rescue NSW is a volunteer based not-for-profit professional organisation dedicated to keeping boaters safe on the water and supporting local communities
Moama residents and visitors were up early on Friday
to pay their respects to soldiers who lost their lives during the conflict
the Anzac Day dawn service was held at the Moama cenotaph
followed by a gunfire breakfast at the Moama RSL Club
Veterans and community members then re-assembled at the Moama post office at 8.15am to prepare for the march
the procession set off towards the Moama cenotaph
led by NSW Police Inspector Paul Huggett and (retired) Major Rabia Siddique
Moama RSL sub-branch president and MC for the day Ken Jones welcomed all to the service
Mr Jones said the service gave community members the chance to pay their respects to the soldiers who keep Australia safe
“This year marks the 110th anniversary of the Gallipoli landing,’’ he said
we come together to show our respect for the military personnel whose service keeps our country safe.’’
He also shared some words about John Courtenay Chanter
and who was educated in Moama in his younger years
NSW Citizen's Bushmen Regiment during the second Boer War
He also served with the Light Horse Regiment of the First Australian Imperial Force during the Gallipoli and Damascus campaigns of World War I
Cohuna Secondary College student Georgia Armstrong sang the Anzac version of I Am Australian
Moama RSL member Col Perkins opened the service with a prayer before Ms Armstrong sang the hymn Abide with me
who served as a legal officer in the British Army Legal Service
Mrs Siddique is well known for successfully suing the British Armed Forces and British Government for discrimination
Among other highlights of her accomplished life and extensive career
she also received a medal from the late Queen Elizabeth and worked as an international criminal prosecutor
she emphasised what it means to have the Anzac spirit
“My story and the story of so many others who serve today are a continuation of that same journey,” she said
“Anzac Day for me is not about glorifying war
every single one of us to be worthy of their sacrifice
“It's about recognising that when we stand together across difference across generations
we become the very best version of what our Anzacs fought to protect.”
St Joseph’s College Echuca school captain Olivia Batchelor read the Requiem before community members
business people and organisation representatives came together to lay wreaths
Ms Armstrong once again took centre stage to sing the national anthems for New Zealand
Australia and the royal anthem before Mr Perkins led the crowd in a closing prayer
The draft Moama Flood Risk Management Study and Plan is now available for the public to view
The draft plan is the second stage of the Echuca Moama Torrumbarry Flood Study and the Risk Management Plan Project
It details the Murray River Council’s approach to managing flood risk in Moama and recommends actions to reduce the risk and damage from future riverine flooding events and to support responding agencies during emergencies
Murray River Council Mayor John Harvie encouraged community members to review the draft or attend a drop-in session and have their say
“I would encourage our residents to take a look at the draft plan
as any additional feedback will help ensure all relevant issues have been captured and considered,” he said
“Community input continues to be crucial to the overall success of this project.”
Submissions on the draft plan will be accepted until 4pm Wednesday
The community drop-in session will be held on Wednesday
May 21 for residents to speak with council staff directly
All feedback will be reviewed and used to inform the final version of the plan
which is expected to be adopted in late June
Residents are encouraged to explore the full draft plan at yoursay.murrayriver.nsw.gov.au
The Region 2 Murray Darling Association’s members gathered at Murray River Council on Thursday afternoon to discuss basin issues
Region 2 is made up of Murray River Council
Federation Council and Murrumbidgee Council
including Campaspe Shire Mayor Daniel Mackrell
attended the meeting in person and online to discuss community issues and to hear from NSW State Member for Murray Helen Dalton
MDA chief executive Mark Lamb led the meeting with an update from the MDA for the past 12 months
including board member changes following the local government elections last year
Mr Lamb also said he was happy to note that the MDA was becoming more cohesive
“One of the things I found when I came on about three-and-a-half years ago was that we had a fairly disparate board
and I don't mean that as a criticism,” he said
“I'm really pleased to say that we now have a high degree of consensus
I'm not saying everyone agrees on every issue
but I think that when it comes to some of the key issues..
“I think it's really great to see this level of consensus
and I think we've now got a far more coherent board.”
Mr Lamb also encouraged councillors to prepare motions about local issues they wanted the MDA to advocate for at a higher level
All motions will be presented at the National Conference being held in Griffith later this year
Mrs Dalton then made an appearance via video call to talk about her seven-point approach to fixing the Murray-Darling river system without the need for water buybacks
“We’ve done a fair bit of work on the Murray-Darling Basin..
I think the election is going to be interesting because regardless of who wins
we will have a new federal water minister,” she said
“Water buybacks are something that we all agree should not happen
“The Murray-Darling Basin Plan has been quite contentious
but this (is) one thing we are standing together on.”
Mrs Dalton’s seven-point plan details measures that can be taken to achieve environmental outcomes without affecting farming communities that rely on the basin
The next MDA meeting will be held on Monday
May 12 in Cobram with the MDA’s national president to attend as the guest speaker
Independent candidate for Farrer Michelle Milthorpe was in town on Wednesday
Mrs Milthorpe has been travelling throughout Farrer since September
with Moama being one of the final towns on her campaign trail before the election this weekend
She was at the St Mary’s pre-polling station throughout the day
alongside the Moama Woolworths and Moama Bowling Club for meet-and-greet sessions
She said the community response had been positive while she was at pre-polling
“I had a few people stop and have a chat and I think they were grateful that I was there,” she said
“It's a shame that you can't split yourself up
the concerns have been varied throughout the electorate
but the most common concern she’s heard from voters has been access to healthcare
Issues around water buybacks have also been voiced throughout the electorate
as she has seen the pain they have caused farming communities
She also said federal policies from both sides were lacking a regional focus
“This lack of a regional focus has been huge,” she said
“Whilst we have federal policies for both sides saying that they're advocating for bulk billing
it doesn’t mean anything if you can’t see a GP
Childcare subsidies don’t mean anything if you can’t access childcare
“Immigration has come up as an issue in a number of towns — we need migrants to be doing a lot of jobs
so for them to just say a blanket cutting of immigration is not okay for us
We can't survive without those workers in our communities.”
Mrs Milthorpe is advocating to introduce a place-based model of decision to meet the varying needs of each community
Mrs Milthorpe said she was looking forward to it
and I've got so many wonderful volunteers around the whole electorate..
I'm really keen to make sure that we have a regional voice advocating for regional people
and putting that lens over all policy and decision-making is so important.’’
It was another 3-0 week for local sides in the Goulburn Murray Women’s and Girls Leagues
Local sides are now a combined 8-0 over the first three rounds of competition
both Moama and Echuca United put in strong results
defeating Shepparton-based opposition in Shepparton
The defending champion was still finding its shooting boots in the opening exchanges
logging 2.7 in the first period and adding another glut of behinds in the second to score 3.14 (32) at the half
giving the visitor a useful lead at the main interval
United proved more accurate after the half-time team talk
kicking three goals in each quarter for an overall 6.5 in the half and a final score of 9.19 (73) to 2.3 (15)
Matilda Fowler shouldered the goal-kicking duties with five for the Eagles
It was a similar scoreline in the other match of the round featuring local talent
as Moama dealt effectively with last season's grand finalist Shepparton United
The Magpies held the Demons scoreless over the opening term
The visitor added another four majors in the second period
while Shepparton United got itself on the board with its opening goal
A 33 point half-time lead continued to extend throughout the second half
while Maisy Byrne and Stella Fraser added two each
Moama sits atop the girls league ladder at 3-0
A blockbuster local clash comes around next weekend when the Eagles host the Magpies at Echuca South Recreation Reserve from 12.30pm on Sunday
Echuca proved far too strong for opponents Tatura
shutting out the Bulldogs in a 15.9 (99) to 0 result
The Murray Bombers put up two thirds of their points in the first half before letting the foot off the gas slightly after the major break
Coach Kate Dixon kicked five to lead her side
Dewar and Dixon featured among the sides’ best
Leading the ladder at a perfect three from three
Echuca is headed into a bye in round four before returning to action on May 11
Heavy rain on Friday night made for less-than-ideal conditions for Moama and Finley’s 2024 preliminary final rematch on Saturday
The contest wasn’t without its challenges for the Magpies
with debutant Anthony Accadia having to be taken off the field in the second quarter after suffering a broken leg
Off the back of Tom Hawkins’ triumphant return home in round three of Murray Football League
the Cats travelled to Moama Recreation Reserve full of vigour
Neither team could be separated in the opening quarter
with both sides putting in strong defensive efforts to head into the first break tied at 2.2 apiece
The Magpies managed to get their nose in front in a shortened second quarter due to the injury to Accadia
with Moama gaining a slim single-point advantage at the major break
The Magpies found some space in the third term and came out firing
with the first four scores being in favour of the home side and timely goals from Liam Barrett and Khy Stovell
Up by 11 points heading into the final stretch
letting through just four behinds in the fourth quarter
With neither side able to find a goal throughout the first 14 minutes of the last quarter it was Moama’s experienced coach Barrett who delivered again
drilling the only maximum for the final frame to give the Magpies the win
Escaping with a 15-point win at home has elevated Moama to 3-1 on the season and a spot in the top four on the ladder
the final score was Moama 6.8 (45) to Finley 4.6 (30)
providing insight into why the game was low scoring as well as an update on Accadia’s injury
“Outside the injury to Anthony and the wet conditions I think both defences were holding up really well and both teams struggled a little bit with the connections inside 50,” he said
“We’ve touched base with Anthony and he seems to be in good spirits and he’s heading in for surgery
it’s just a shame his debut ended like that.”
Barrett also analysed the meaning of getting a win over Finley and his pride in seeing younger players step up in the absence of senior leadership
“Coming into this week we knew Finley’s team would be a bit different without Tom Hawkins
but we know they are a proud footy club,” he said
“There was extra motivation for us against them with what happened last year in the prelim final
so we knew it was going to be a good fight and they showed some good glimpses
“Our captain and vice-captain were out this week
so it was nice to see some of the other boys step up
it was good to see our younger blokes like Rhys Drennan and Archie Teasdale take another step forward.”
he emphasised his pleasure with the team’s performance in 2025
“I think being able to get these early wins is encouraging
but we probably aren’t putting a full four-quarter performance together just yet,” he said
“To be winning games with still so much improvement left in us is good
we are still building connections with new players and there is much more to come
we are holding on to leads and finishing the job each week without necessarily playing our best footy.”
Moama will travel to Tongala in round five and will be eyeing another victory to add to the tally
with the Blues having a weaker start to 2025 than expected
Athletes from Echuca-Moama and district gathered at Moama Bowling Club on Monday
The annual Echuca-Moama Sportstar of the Year awards acknowledge and recognise significant sporting achievements by athletes in 2024
Leitchville-Gunbower football product James Barrat took out the junior sportstar for his efforts in representative football
as well as being drafted into the AFL by St Kilda Football Club
Local clay target shooting superstar Kiara Dean took out the senior sportstar for her consistent elite performances both in Australia and abroad
which were capped off by her being named Australian flag bearer at the 2024 Universal Trench World Championships in France
the monthly nominees for each category had their moment in the spotlight
receiving a medallion and getting interviewed on stage by master of ceremonies Clint Flanagan
Attendees enjoyed a two-course meal and refreshments and were regaled by special guest speaker Regan Hollioake who told stories about her career as a professional long-distance triathlete
As well as the junior and senior sportstar winners
club of the year and the spirit of sport awards were presented
Rochester Football Club senior coach Ash Watson took home the coach of the year award for his efforts in turning the Tigers around from a 10th place finish in 2023 to a preliminary final and third place finish in 2024
Echuca Football Netball Club once again took home the honour of club of the year due to its continued dominance in senior
Echuca-Moama Basketball Association president and stalwart Lisa Baker was named the spirit of sport winner for her prolonged service to basketball in the region and her hand in growing the sport
Full coverage of the event will be available in an eight-page lift out in Friday’s edition of The Riv
A construction company has officially been chosen to build the new Moama Police Station
the works are set to begin in the coming months
the NSW Police Force has appointed Intrec to manage the building works for the new Moama Police Station,” the media unit said
“Building works are due to commence in the early second quarter of 2025.”
The process of building the new Moama Police Station has spanned several years
was deemed unfit for use and in a state of disrepair
The size of the station meant it was also unable to accommodate the staff required to service the growing community of Moama
After much deliberation and discussions with the community
it was decided by Murray River Council that the new station would be built at Lawry Park
the NSW Government allocated $4 million to put towards the works as part of the 2021-22 budget
A further $1.9 million was allocated in the 2022-23 budget in hopes that the build would be completed in 2024
delays occurred due to factors such as the rezoning of the Lawry Park land from community land to operational land
Murray River Council Mayor John Harvie said the recent selection of a builder for the works was a positive step forward
“The appointment of a builder for the new Moama Police Station is a welcome milestone for this much-anticipated project,” he said
“Both council and the community have been advocating for modern
fit-for-purpose facilities for several years
so it’s incredibly pleasing to see this now one step closer to reality
“This project will provide vital infrastructure to support community safety and wellbeing in the Moama region for years to come.”
Telstra says it has been asked to shut down its mobile base station in Moama at different periods until December 12 due to third party works
Customers will receive texts advising them of upcoming work
with the site needing to be switched off from Wednesday
Restoration to the mobile network will happen at the end of each day
Telstra customers can continue to make calls and send texts during disruptions by switching on Wi-Fi Calling
Wi-Fi Calling is a free setting on most popular mobile phones
allowing the device to make and receive calls while connected to wi-fi
Business owners are encouraged to talk to their bank about connecting EFTPOS terminals to wi-fi connections to prevent delays in processing transactions
More information on outages and connectivity suggestions can be found at telstra.com.au/outages
the major bowls event for RSL clubs around the state
About 1500 bowlers competed across the tournament and at Barham
the local side representing Moama RSL took out their section and earned a winners’ pennant
The locals prevailed in all five of their matches
Moama RSL’s performance also earned third place overall once it was compared
to the section winners across all 15 venues
Ocean Grove earning top spot and taking the Edinburgh Shield
Team manager for the winning side Barry Cuttriss said the Edinburgh Shield event
was about keeping RSL members and affiliates involved and active in bowls
it's to ensure that the service members continue to stay involved and playing bowls,” he said
it's not totally geared to just the service guys
so the affiliates make up the numbers and the competition goes (on)
“It just basically allows the service members to interact with everybody and be involved.”
The Moama RSL team consisted of 16 bowlers
While there were some established playing relationships within the respective quartets
the RSL side doesn’t regularly compete together
its members formed from representatives of the district's local bowling clubs including Echuca
Moama RSL also sent a home team to Rich River Bowls Club
but it was unsuccessful in claiming the shield
Cuttriss said he believes this makes 12 section pennants for the club in the annual competition
with Moama having also won the overall shield on two occasions in the earlier days of the competition
he hailed the camaraderie built with the other bowls clubs across the competition
“The banter was just sensational,” he said
and we did it because that's what we want to do
the congratulations from all the opposition was fantastic
“(It was) played in the right spirit for sure.”
The Edinburgh Shield is the only bowls event Moama RSL competes in throughout the year
Echuca-Moama church and community members congregated on Good Friday for the annual Walk of Witness
Participants assembled in the morning under clear skies and enjoyed a cup of tea before the walk began
Uniting Church reverend and event co-ordinator Michele Lees said it was great to see a diverse range of walkers on the day
“We gathered in front of the Uniting Church
It’s always lovely to have the young ones running around.”
Walkers set off down Hare St from 10.30am towards Christ Church Anglican and then to St Mary’s Catholic Church
Musicians helped St Mary’s parish priest Fr Novie Lim lead the readings and hymns at each church
while Rev Lees gave the closing meditation for the day
Rev Lees said the walk mimicked the carrying of the cross by Jesus and Simon of Cyrene before His crucifixion
“It’s a moving service and quite sombre in many ways because of what it’s all leading to
but people were respectful of that,” she said
participants returned to the Uniting Church at around 11.45am and were invited inside to socialise over a morning tea with hot cross buns
and the kitchen was kept busy feeding the crowd
There was great co-operation between the churches,” Rev Lees said
The walk was reinstated by Rev Lees in 2021 and is expected to return next Easter
but this event marked her last time co-ordinating the walk
Woolworths Moama temporarily closed on the morning of Monday
December 16 following reports of a fire around 9am
A staff member said an electrical fire had occurred
and Fire and Rescue NSW was on site around 9.20am
Adjacent businesses in the Moama Marketplace were closed and staff evacuated to the car park
Woolworths and other businesses were expected to remain closed for a short time
Learn about the inspiring women in the Echuca-Moama community next month at the launch of Committee for Echuca Moama’s ‘100 Community Women: A Snapshot in Time’
The event will coincide with International Women's Day
the global day which celebrates the social
cultural and political achievements of women
The day also marks a call to action for accelerating women’s equality
includes a dynamic panel discussion led by facilitator Fleur Ferris
Panellists include guest speakers Penny Silver
‘‘We are very excited that this event will serve as a launch to a 12-month project which will pay tribute to 100 inspiring women of Echuca-Moama
contributions and influence within the community and showcasing their leadership and resilience,’’ Dr Lees said
‘‘Our event on March 2 will include the details on how to nominate a woman to feature in our project which will culminate in a book profiling 100 women from the district
learn and celebrate the strength of the women in our community.’’
from 12.30pm at Moama Bowling Club’s The Venue
The event will include a complimentary drink on arrival
fabulous door prizes and giveaways provided by local sponsors
Tickets are $40 for adults or $30 for concession and can be booked at https://tinyurl.com/4uk8a5we
You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser or activate Google Chrome Frame to improve your experience
Renewable energy developer CleanPeak Energy has announced its 7.5 MWp Moama Solar Farm is operational
which partly fulfils a commitment to a $48 million agreement helping to keep Barangaroo Precinct in Sydney carbon neutral
Sydney-headquartered renewable energy developer CleanPeak Energy has announced its 7.5 MWp Moama Solar Farm is operational
which fulfils a commitment to a $48 million (USD 29.6 million) agreement helping to keep Barangaroo Precinct in Sydney carbon neutral
The 12,000 ground-mounted solar panels at Moama Solar Farm
located 776 kilometres southwest of Sydney
are installed on a single axis tracking system and the array is expected to supply 15 GWh of clean energy annually
which is the equivalent of avoiding over 10,000 tonnes of Co2 emissions
In 2024, CPE entered into an agreement with the NSW government to guarantee the commercial, residential and recreational Barangaroo Precinct, remains carbon neutral until 2050
CPE has a green product purchase agreement (GPPA) with the precinct valued at $48 million
The precinct will offset its grid-supplied electricity consumption with green energy certificates for 25 years
CPE is developing four nsolar farms to add 50 GWh of clean energy to the NSW renewable energy supply
Generating the electricity demand of 3,000 homes, other solar farms in the agreement include the 7.5 MW Hay Solar Farm under development near the NSW regional town of the same name
More articles from Ev Foley
Please be mindful of our community standards
and website in this browser for the next time I comment
By submitting this form you agree to pv magazine using your data for the purposes of publishing your comment
Your personal data will only be disclosed or otherwise transmitted to third parties for the purposes of spam filtering or if this is necessary for technical maintenance of the website
Any other transfer to third parties will not take place unless this is justified on the basis of applicable data protection regulations or if pv magazine is legally obliged to do so
You may revoke this consent at any time with effect for the future
in which case your personal data will be deleted immediately
your data will be deleted if pv magazine has processed your request or the purpose of data storage is fulfilled
Further information on data privacy can be found in our Data Protection Policy
By subscribing to our newsletter you’ll be eligible for a 10% discount on magazine subscriptions
pv magazine Australia offers bi-weekly updates of the latest photovoltaics news
We also offer comprehensive global coverage of the most important solar markets worldwide
up to date information delivered straight to your inbox
Δdocument.getElementById( "ak_js_3" ).setAttribute( "value"
This website uses cookies to anonymously count visitor numbers. To find out more, please see our Data Protection Policy. ×
The cookie settings on this website are set to "allow cookies" to give you the best browsing experience possible
If you continue to use this website without changing your cookie settings or you click "Accept" below then you are consenting to this
Close
The Winter Blues Festival is preparing for its 25th edition in 2025
the event will bring the finest Australian blues and roots talent from across Australia to Echuca-Moama
with organisers excited for many more years of showcasing live music in the region
Recognised as one of the most affordable festival weekends in Australia
the Winter Blues Festival offers free entry to participating venues throughout its four-day program
With various accommodation and dining options to suit different budgets
the festival ensures an accessible experience for music lovers
an important factor in today’s cost-conscious environment
The festival also brings significant cultural and economic benefits to the region
What was once the quietest weekend of the year for the historic port town now sees 20,000 visitors converge on Echuca-Moama
providing a vital boost to local businesses
underscoring the festival’s value to the community
As a not-for-profit event run by a dedicated team of volunteers
the Winter Blues Festival was created by community for community
It thrives with the support of local businesses and grants and recently won the Community Impact Award at the Campaspe Murray Business Awards
the festival has been awarded the Revive Live grant
which helps sustain events across Australia
Echuca Moama Winter Blues Festival committee chair Laurelin Berrick encourages everyone to join in the fun from July 24 to 27
“Support this fantastic event by coming to town
grabbing a bite to eat and soaking up the vibe
It’s all about the blues and the community,” Ms Berrick said
The first artist announcement for 2025 includes: 8 Ball Aitken
The Winter Blues Festival is supported by Revive Live — an Australian Government initiative
For more information as it’s announced, visit the Winter Blues Festival website, winterblues.com.au
the Moama Solar Farm was officially opened on Thursday
The building project started last year in late August and is one of four solar farms being built by Clean Peak energy in NSW
During the opening ceremony Aunty Vicki Walker led the group in a Welcome to Country
Murray River Council Mayor John Harvie and CleanPeak chief executive Philip Graham then shared some words about the project
Mr Graham said the solar farm will benefit Moama
“The solar farm itself has more than 12,000 panels
so it’s not a massive solar farm,” he said
distributed solar farms like this and try and put them in a place that makes sense
and then we connect them to the distribution system so it’s powering Moama rather than taking it all the way somewhere else
so it’d be great to power a new community building or something like that from the solar farm.”
The project is part of the $48 million Green Product Purchase Agreement between CleanPeak Energy and Infrastrucure NSW to offset emissions at Sydney’s Barangaroo Precinct
The solar farm is expected to generate 15 gigawatts of green energy annually
the equivalent to powering 3000 Australian homes or taking 2000 fuel-burning cars off the road
Regardless of whether Barangaroo tenants use green energy
they will be able to support renewable energy through renewable energy certificates covered through the 25-year deal between the NSW Government and CleanPeak
Mr Graham said he hopes this project is only the beginning of a long partnership between the company and Moama
and it’ll be great to have a relationship with the council going forward,” he said
“One of the things we committed to was local contact in our development ..
so we’re looking to do as much as we can for regional NSW operations.”
CleanPeak prioritised supporting regional businesses including the initial fencing by Australasian fencing
civil works by Northern Constructions Group and wiring by Cobram Electrical and Data
Between 50 to 60 CleanPeak employees were also deployed and living in Echuca Moama throughout the construction
The land on which the solar farm was built was leased from local Gavin Milgate whose family has owned the land for generations
Residents and business owners in Moama have expressed frustration over Telstra mobile service outages caused by mural painting
which doubles as part of Telstra’s mobile base station in the area
is being painted this week for the Murray River Council’s River Country Art Trail initiative
A spokesperson for the council confirmed third-party works cited when Telstra announced service disruptions were due to the artwork being completed this week
“Telecommunications services in Moama have been temporarily disrupted to ensure best practice health and safety standards are adhered to,” the spokesperson said
“This relates to radiocommunications antennas operating on the water tower and is only in effect in periods when the artist is working in close proximity to this equipment.”
Telstra regional general manager Steve Tinker said the company was complying with health and safety protocols as part of the council’s project
The tower’s antennae produce electromagnetic energy
and exclusion zones are defined to protect against radiation exposure
Planned disruptions are expected to be completed on Thursday
with mobile services restored at the end of each day
Could Moama Football Netball Club be leaving Murray Football League in the near future
After building out its new five-year strategic plan
Moama’s executive committee has begun questioning where the future of the club lies and part of those discussions naturally moved to whether it was time to move on from the Murray league
The executive committee has created a ‘‘working party’’ comprised of key figures from within the club and local sporting identities to determine if a league switch is the right move
This working party has had meetings with two other competitions
Bendigo Football Netball League and Goulburn Valley Football Netball League
with representatives from both associations touring Moama’s facilities
Moama’s newly-elected president Scott Slater emphasised that while the club had been inquiring about the move and evaluating its options
and no timeline or commitment been made to anyone
“The working party has sat with both competitions’ boards and we have kept the Murray league in consultation the whole time to make sure they understand that we are just doing information sessions with the other leagues,” he said
“We haven’t committed to anyone; the Murray league would be the first to know if we had
“Both leagues have been open for discussions
and they were impressed with our structure and the way we go about things
“We made it clear that we weren’t thinking about 2025
Slater highlighted the reasoning for the potential switch centred around retaining the youth footballers and netballers at the club
The Murray league only has an under-17 competition while the GVL and BFNL have under-18 competitions
emphasising that the extra year in a junior competition was where Moama was losing players
“Both the Bendigo and Goulburn Valley leagues have under-18s competitions
while the Murray league only goes to under-17
so we are finding we are losing players to other clubs who want that extra year to challenge themselves in the juniors,” he said
it is about how we can retain our local talent and for them to be able to play the best possible standard of football and netball at our club
“When a player decides to leave the club to play elsewhere
you lose the family and possible future committee members
we want to make sure a possible move will be advantageous for the whole club and isn’t just a football or netball decision.”
While a move from the Murray league is still seemingly a few seasons away
local football and netball fans will be licking their lips at the possibility of having two teams in the GVL and a new rivalry forming between the Magpies and the defending champion
Moama RSL sub-branch president Ken Jones has called in the heavy artillery in his campaign to have the cenotaph in Moama updated
he met with Federal Member for Farrer Sussan Ley to pitch for the project he described as “long overdue”
Ms Ley said the Saluting their Service Commemorative Grants Program was the perfect fit for the cenotaph and Moama RSL
After touring the club’s commemorative gardens and inspecting some of its exhibits
Ms Ley said she was impressed at what the club had achieved without any federal funding
She said it was time for the sub-branch to get a helping hand from the coffers in Canberra
“I will be supporting the proposal and the application for money to increase the presence and capacity of the cenotaph,” Ms Ley said
“Ken has told me today the Dawn Service there in 2024 drew more than 2000 locals
and that is reflecting what we are seeing across the country
“Anzac Day in particular is our chance to say thank you to all those who have served — regional NSW has given up so many young lives across too many wars.”
Mr Jones said the sub-branch would stage its Dawn Service at the cenotaph at 5.55am
and asked for those attending to assemble by 5.45am on Friday
The service will be immediately followed by a gunfire breakfast at the Moama RSL club
The Moama Anzac Day march will assemble at 8.15am at Echuca St behind the Moama Post Office
It will step off at 8.40am to the Moama cenotaph
where a commemorative service will start at 9am
“Our speaker this year is retired British Army Major Rabia Siddique
who has an astonishing story of her bravery under fire alongside special forces units in Iraq in 2005,” Mr Jones said
“I think it will be a story everyone will want to hear.”
Mr Jones said the annual Anzac Day badges appeal would begin the week of Monday
with purchases able to made at Woolworths Moama
will directly benefit the work we do with all our veterans and their families,” he said
Hundreds gathered at the Echuca and Moama cenotaphs to attend Remembrance Day services
The Echuca service started promptly on Monday
November 11 at 10.50am and was led by members of the Echuca RSL sub-branch
The service opened with a prayer and poem read by RSL member Ron Wood before RSL vice-president
John Hollowood gave a commemorative address
Mr Hollowood said that the day is a chance to remember those who have passed and reflect on the price countries paid due to war
“Remembrance Day on November 11 is a time to recognise and remember all those who have lost their lives or suffered in wars
conflicts and peacekeeping operations,” he said
“The day’s sombre associations have never changed..
we reflect on the price that Australia and countries around the world have paid through more than a century of war and conflict that followed the World War I.”
Representatives from the Echuca East Primary School
Echuca Primary School and Campaspe Shire Council were among those who also laid a wreath
The service then concluded with the last post
Moama RSL sub-branch president Ken Jones led the service across the river at the Moama cenotaph from 11.00am
Cole Perkins followed the opening speech with a prayer for fallen soldiers
and Leigh Bennett recited a Remembrance Day poem
Wreaths were laid by Moama and Echuca RSL’s
and State Member for Murray Plains Peter Walsh
Pamela Colt spoke of her family’s rich history of serving for Australia since World War I
and Georgia Armstrong from Cohuna Secondary College sung the British
Run Echuca Moama is an incredible event that has grown into a flagship celebration of fitness
community spirit and the stunning natural beauty of our cross-border region
run or wheel their way through a unique course spanning both Victoria and NSW
the route showcases the iconic old and new bridges
uniting two states in a powerful display of togetherness
this annual event is organised by Community Living & Respite Services and is dedicated to raising funds for the Opening Doors Project
This inspiring initiative builds homes for people with disabilities in our local community
creating opportunities for greater independence and inclusion
these projects have delivered three homes and 12 units
“Run Echuca Moama is more than just a race; it is a celebration of inclusion and a testament to the strength of community,” the citation reads
“Attracting participants of all ages and abilities
it brings locals and visitors together for a day filled with achievement
“Whether competing in a fun run or taking on a more challenging distance
everyone involved contributes to raising funds and awareness for a life-changing cause
“This event’s success would not be possible without the dedication of its organisers and volunteers
whose hard work ensures a smooth and inspiring experience for all
“Their efforts have created an event that embodies the very best of our region — fitness
Volunteers from Marine Rescue Moama are on the Murray River assisting a multi-agency search for a missing man at Barooga in the New South Wales Murray region
Marine Rescue NSW Inspector Glenn Sullivan said Marine Rescue Moama was tasked by NSW Police Marine Area Command this afternoon (Friday 24 January 2025)
“A volunteer crew was assembled and headed for Barooga with rescue vessel Moama 20 in tow
“Marine Rescue Moama volunteers on board Moama 20 are currently searching a stretch of the Murray River under the direction of Marine Area Command and will continue to do so until directed otherwise,” Inspector Sullivan said
Moama residents may have noticed a new addition to the Moama skyline following the completion of the Moama water tower mural
The mural was created as part of the River Country Art Trail and is the second of five installations to be completed
The Moama artwork was done by internationally acclaimed artist Hiroyasu Tsuri
Mr Tsuri said he enjoyed being a part of the art trail and hopes the artworks bring the community together
“I'm very happy to be part of the River Country Art Trail,“ he said
“Public art often gives people who aren't normally interested in art the chance to encounter it
The mural is hard to miss as it sits on a small hill along Cobb Hwy
The artwork emphasises the beauty of nature
depicting the elegance of local birdlife with Australian flora sprinkled throughout
Visitors can see the painting up close by walking the scenic 250m trail from the roadside park on the Cobb Hwy
so visitors can sit and admire the work or use the mural as the perfect backdrop to take photos
Although Mr Tsuri completed the project in a month
he said painting the water tower presented unique challenges
plus all the nuts and bolts on each panel — that was a real pain,” he said
I tend to use an extension pole with rollers..
The River Country Art Trail celebrates creativity and storytelling throughout the Murray River region
Visitors are encouraged to explore the trail as it grows with another completed mural in Mathoura
This project is proudly funded by the NSW Government through the Regional Tourism Activation Fund
A NSW man has been charged following a fatal boating incident last year
Emergency services were called to Moama about 7.25pm on Saturday
after a man was injured after falling into the Murray River
Officers attached to Murray River Police District arrived and were told that the man had fallen from a boat after the vessel suddenly stopped when a water skier being towed behind the boat fell in the water
was brought ashore and treated by Ambulance Victoria paramedics; however
has been issued with a future court attendance notice for the offence of culpably navigate under influence — cause death by impact
The man will appear at Deniliquin Local Court on Wednesday
Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or at nsw.crimestoppers.com.au
The Bridge Art Project Inc has received $1.6 million in funding from the Federal Government to help bring the Murray River Art Gallery to life
The new art gallery is set to be built at 74 Meninya St
with hopes for it to be Moama’s newest tourist attraction and community hub
Bridge Art Project chair Chris Bilkey said the committee was overjoyed with the news
very good team on the committee and we think now the rubber is really starting to hit the road,” he said
“Through this recent grant of almost $1.7 million we have the ability to build and landscape the site to a much better level than we would have otherwise been able to.”
The funding is part of the Federal Government’s Growing Regions Program which has provided up to $15 million in funding to local government bodies and not-for-profit organisations for community infrastructure projects
The $1.6 million grant will supplement the $4.95 million the group received through the NSW Regional Tourism Activation Fund
$115,932 in funds from a Community Building Partnerships grant and $300,500 raised by the committee through donations and fundraising
The total $7,025,554 in funding will go towards the construction of the Murray River Art Gallery
community room on-site and a restaurant and cafe overlooking the outdoor site
Federal Member for Farrer Sussan Ley said she was happy to receive news of the milestone
“I was delighted to get the call confirming the funding this week and pleased I can help push for this dynamic project to succeed,” she said
“What impresses me so much with this project — and I guess more broadly with most new Moama developments — is the desire to respect and connect with the river
the project can now move ahead with its design plans with confidence
The latest funding will go towards developing the outdoor space around the gallery
including an amphitheatre for outdoor activities and a new raised walkway over the 17 hectares of bush and wetlands to the rear of the site
The committee hopes to have the final development application done by April at the latest
Once this application is approved and the construction certificate is acquired
the committee expects shovels to hit the ground by July
Mr Bilkey said the committee hoped the gallery would be a reflection of the community
we are not council funded and so it’s an entire community project,” he said
“We want to make sure that the aspirations of the community
as far as a meeting hub and as a cultural centre
can be met by the gallery we plan to build.”
The committee welcomes new members and is calling for interested people to contribute their skills and expertise to progress the project
Meetings are held at the Campaspe Regional Library
Echuca on the second Thursday of the month at 4pm
please call committee secretary Lynne on 0411 412 440 for details
For more information on the Bridge Art Project, visit www.bridgeartproject.com.au
The Riv photographer Jordan Townrow was on the ground at Moama Recreation Reserve to capture all the action as Moama 15.12 (101) took down Rumbalara 5.1 (31) in round two of the Murray Football League reserves Carlton Draught Cup.
CNN and the BBC World Service which is copyright and cannot be reproduced
AEST = Australian Eastern Standard Time which is 10 hours ahead of GMT (Greenwich Mean Time)
The Moama Lions Club has made travelling possible for Moama mother Alicia Parsons and her daughter Chloe
a disease that affects only 15 people in the world
The disease impacts a body’s growth and functionality until eventually the body’s muscles begin to fail
starting from the limbs and later impacting bigger organs
Only one person diagnosed with PARS2 has lived beyond the age of 10
Chloe’s family is taking every day as it comes and is focusing on making memories
Ms Parsons said the trailer would be a big help in carrying all of Chloe’s necessary equipment
“We couldn’t go away and travel without taking all her supplies
so it’s just made it a lot easier,” she said
“We’ve been told that she won’t live a long life ..
It's really taught us that creating memories in life is far more important than anything else and the Lions have really helped us to do that
“I couldn’t afford it and NDIS turned it down
so (Aspire) reached out to the Lions club and they said absolutely — it’s changed heaps for us and for Chloe.”
Disability service Aspire first reached out to the Lions club late last year and from there
It had the $3800 trailer custom-built to fit Chloe’s needs
Now that the trailer has officially been donated
the Parsons family is already planning a holiday and bike rides at the park
Moama Lions Club has been hard at work in the past few months to lend a helping hand to struggling residents
It has also made a $1000 donation to a local couple whose daughter Arlette (Lettie) Eden Murphy was born prematurely in January
The community has rallied behind the young family through a GoFundMe to help cover costs
The family will remain in Melbourne until mid-April while Lettie receives care
Moama Lions Club chairman Bob Hardwick said members were happy to help those in need
“Moama Lions are only too happy to help people out,” he said
in that time we’ve done a lot of things that people don’t really know about.”
The Moama Lions are only able to help the community because of volunteers and
If anyone is interested in joining the club
they are welcome to attend the monthly meetings
Meetings are held at the Moama RSL boardroom every second and fourth Tuesday of the month from 6.30pm
If anyone would like to donate to Arlette and her family, visit https://www.gofundme.com/f/lettie-murphy-tiny-but-mighty
The Riv’s Jordan Townrow found herself in front of all the action at Moama Recreation Reserve netball courts and caught all of B-grade
C-grade and C-reserve’s wins against Rumbalara
Murray River Council’s application for funding to establish a country university centre in Moama has been declined by the Federal Government
Council sought to open a centre in Martin St for local students to complete tertiary qualifications without needing to leave their local communities
The application included funding for necessary capital improvements and ongoing operational costs through to 2028
Mayor John Harvie said the response from the government was disappointing
“We are naturally disappointed with the outcome
as we firmly believed that establishing a CUC in Echuca-Moama would have provided significant benefits to our community and the wider region,” he said
“This was a unique opportunity to reduce financial barriers to education
support local and regional workforce development
and enable residents to access tertiary education without the need to relocate.”
There are currently 22 university centres operating in 35 communities across regional NSW
The plan was for the proposed centre in Moama to collaborate with educational institutions
industry organisations and local employers such as Echuca Regional Health
to align educational activities with regional employment needs
Cr Harvie said the centres had proven successful in their current locations and kept young adults close to home
“It’s a tried and tested model showing a high success rate,” Cr Harvie said
it has demonstrated that young people who would otherwise have to study elsewhere to pursue their educational dreams have jumped at the chance to do it close to home.”
Council said it would continue to explore other avenues and advocate for initiatives that supported education and workforce development
Stage 4 was delivered by Transport for NSW
This stage involved upgrading the Moama intersections to connect the Cobb Highway to the new Murray River bridge
It includes new traffic lights at the intersection of Cobb Highway/Perricoota Road/Francis Street and a new intersection at Cobb Highway/Meninya Street
Excell Gray Bruni delivered the contract to build Stage 4
Work commenced in March 2020 and were completed in April 2022
The new intersections will serve as key links to the new bridge
providing safer and quicker movements for residents
visitors and the freight industry as they move across the Murray River between Moama and Echuca
For additional information visit the Transport for NSW website
Upgraded intersections in Moama (artist's impression – subject to change)
Moama put on a commanding display against Nathalia in round 11 of the Goulburn Murray Senior Women’s competition to push itself into the top four at the pointy end of the season
which looked like a stroke of genius early as both of Moama’s openers Olivia Davy (1) and Mia Arthurson (4) were bowled by Cody Power within the first three overs
co-captain Delaney Laffy strolled out to the crease alongside Jordan Dalziel
with the former able to score freely and wrestle the game back in the Mowers’ favour
this time claiming the scalp of Dalziel (4) in the fifth over
This is where Laffy and new batter Ariel Howe launched a counter-attack
with Laffy finding the boundary on eight occasions over the course of her half-century innings while Howe provided stability at the other end
Laffy retired on 50 not-out in the 14th over and just one later
her partner-in-crime Howe was following her captain back to the sheds
Jinaya Nurse (19) and Isla Laffy (13) managed to steer the ship through until the end of the 18th over
who claimed her second wicket for the innings
running out Jinaya Nurse and bowling Louise O’Callaghan in consecutive balls
Moama finishing its 20-over stint with the bat at 7-127
Nathalia needed to get on the front foot early
it took just four overs for Moama to strike
Anna Brooks (5) and Courtney Cunningham (1) were both dismissed within an over of each other
with Jessica Daniel retiring on eight not long after
and that is when Cody Power and Abby Favaro strode out to the middle
The pair looked positive against Moama’s bowling attack and put on a strong partnership through the middle overs of Nathalia’s innings
when Cody Power (22) retired at the end of the 17th over
the side losing three wickets in three overs to finish their innings
Only Abby Favaro (21) went along with Power
who had an impressive all-round performance in the match
Mia Arthurson was the pick of Moama’s bowlers
claiming 2-11 from four overs in the victory
The triumph means that Moama has entered the top four of the competition with just four matches remaining in the home-and-away season
The Goulburn Murray Women’s and Girls’ League seasons both got under way at the weekend
and there was plenty of success for local outfits
were set to begin the football season with a Friday night fixture against Nathalia in Nathalia
but external factors caused the game to be postponed
That meant the first local action of the season came on Saturday
with both Echuca for the women’s and Moama for the girls recording first-up victories in the new season
Echuca had a GMWL premiership flag to unveil at their home opener
outgoing long-time coach Damien Dalziel raising the league’s standard of excellence before first bounce at the women’s round one meeting with Rumbalara
who stepped up from a senior player role to take the reins of the side
her squad controlling field position well in a 4.11 (35) to 1.2 (8) victory
Echuca had Rumba pinned in its defensive 50 through most of the first period and was unfortunate to only find the centre of the uprights on one occasion
with four additional efforts sailing wide for a point
Rumbalara had more success on the attack in the later periods
but the Murray Bombers maintained dominance over the ball and field position to increase their lead throughout and record a modest opening round win
Dixon kicked one of the four majors herself
Amy Mathers and Tori Russell the other goal-kickers
who made the switch from Macedon in the off-season
was named best-on-ground in her Echuca debut
Echuca will be on the road for the first time in 2025 next Sunday
The only game played in round one of the GMGL saw Moama obliterate Shepparton Swans 18.14 (122) to 0
Moama was a finals side last season but another year of experience for its younger girls
and the addition of several players from Echuca United’s dominant 2024 squad
helped the Magpies make a statement of intent in their opening contest
Zoe McCallum and Ruby McLeod were both scoring at will throughout the game
while Shaleah Cooper and Ella Plattfuss contributed two each
New coach Kate Christie has come in with a focus on developing the younger girls involved with the club and will hope to combine development with on-field performance throughout the season
the opening game a big step towards that goal
Echuca United will hope to get their season started with a home fixture against Shepparton United
which forfeited its opening round match this week
Credit: Google MapsTasman Holiday Parks said it is “devastated” after a woman tragically died when a tree fell on a cabin in the early hours of Monday morning
The incident occurred around 3.50am at Merool on the Murray in Moama
Emergency services attended following reports that a tree had collapsed onto a cabin
Get the first look at the digital newspaper
curated daily stories and breaking headlines delivered to your inbox
Get the NewsletterBy continuing you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy.The cabin was occupied by a 63-year-old woman and a man of the same age
Officers from the Murray River Police District found the woman’s body trapped in the wreckage
The 63-year-old man suffered injuries to his right hand and was treated by paramedics before being transported to Echuca Hospital for further care
“We are devastated by the tragic events overnight at our park
in Moama,” a Tasman Holiday Parks spokesperson said on Monday
“We extend our sincere condolences to the family and friends of both cabin occupants and our thoughts are with the gentleman currently being treated in hospital
“We are also providing immediate support for our team on site who are understandably very distressed by this terrible accident.”
Authorities are working to formally identify the woman
A report is being prepared for the Coroner to assist in the investigation
Latest EditionEdition Edition 5 May 20255 May 2025All-powerful Anthony Albanese says give me some R.E.S.P.E.C.T
some of the best bowlers from across Australia and the UK are in Moama for the Bowls Premier League
taking to the greens at Moama Bowling Club to battle for the championship
The competition has increased in size since its last visit to Moama
the Sydney Saints and Geelong Jets added to the competition since it was last contested locally in BPL 19
Local franchise and three-time champion Moama Steamers are among the sides competing
The side features two local participants; 2023 Australian Open singles champion Cassandra Millerick is part of the Steamers’ three-person squad
and fellow local Kevin Anderson has stepped back into the coach role after bowling for the Steamers in BPL 20 in Brisbane
Millerick has been with Moama for the previous five editions of the tournament
The team is rounded out by a pair of Queenslanders
BPL journeyman and six-time competition MVP Aron Sherriff has been with the Steamers since BPL 15
while young gun Kane Nelson is making his competition debut with Moama this year
Despite a stacked lineup of established and emerging talent
Moama found itself at the base of the table after the first cycle of round-robin competition
the Steamers are 5-13 midway through Thursday’s play and are mathematically eliminated from featuring in the final five
The fast-paced BPL features a condensed format
with bowlers beholden to a shot clock as they play off in two five-end sets
The short format allows the sides to play 22 games from Monday to Friday
seeing each opponent twice in round competition before a five-team finals series begins on Friday afternoon
the night sessions of the competition are streamed on Fox Sports
It’s been a week since the completion of Mathoura’s new mural
and now artist TWOONE is transforming the Moama water tower
Both projects are part of Murray River Council’s River Country Art Trail
which will also see new murals completed at Barham and Moulamein
is working hard on the second of the five installations
His design is inspired by the importance of the natural environment to the community
TWOONE spoke to a local Yorta Yorta artist when designing the mural and incorporated their stories about birds of the region into his art
The remaining three projects are expected to begin early next year
The River Country Art Trail has been proudly funded through the NSW Government’s Regional Tourism Activation Fund
and brought to the community by Murray River Council and creative partner FORM Building a State of Creativity
Although the retention of the hallowed Three Jacks Trophy was a club-wide effort across netball and football
the Moama senior win over red-hot Echuca United went a long way in not only keeping the cup
Much like Moama coach Liam Barrett predicted in the Three jacks Trophy preview
the contest was never going to be an easy victory
with Echuca United almost snatching it at the death
thumping six majors in the opening quarter
including three unanswered goals through the middle of the period
added two of its own to keep in the game at the first break
The Eagles faith paid off in the second quarter with a resurgence that put the pressure right back on Moama
the Eagles kicking 4.2 to dominate the contest in the lead up to half-time
Moama managed just 1.3 following a stellar first quarter
the margin sitting at just a goal at the half-time siren
The Magpies found its form once more in the third term and looked rejuvenated after the extended break
adding three more majors to its tally while tightening on defence
keeping the Eagles goalless to extend its lead out to 24
It appeared that the match came down to runs of form as Echuca United found its feet once more in the final frame
rallying back from a lean third quarter to kick 3.2
it still kicked a trio of majors down the stretch to hold on to it’s lead
one that had dwindled to 17 by the full-time siren
Collecting its second and most meaningful win of the season came off the back of strong performances on both sides of the ball
edging out Echuca United 13.7 (85) to 10.8 (68)
Tobias Thoolen found themselves at the centre of the action across four quarters and earn themselves inclusions in Moama’s best
Stovell in particular put another strong effort in with ball in hand
drilling four majors to lead all goal kickers
Bringing an end to the Eagles’ strong start to the season will do wonders for the new-look Moama outfit
Echuca United shouldn’t feel too badly about the narrow defeat
with the side looking far stronger than its 2024 effort already
the Magpies will return to Moama Recreation Reserve in round four to host Finley
who were the side that stripped them of a Murray League finals berth last season and opened its account this round with a win over Deniliquin
The Eagles are hitting the road in the round ahead and will travel to Cobram
who are one of just two sides yet to be beaten in 2025