File pictureA pedestrian has been critically injured when struck by a car on Thurgoona Drive on Friday All articles from our website & appThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxInteractive Crosswords Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueEmergency crews were called to the scene around 8pm following reports of the Thurgoona incident The 19-year-old man was treated at the scene by paramedics for life-threatening injuries before being taken to Albury hospital he was flown by helicopter to the Royal Melbourne Hospital Police said a 27-year-old man was arrested and underwent mandatory drug and alcohol testing An investigation into the cause of the crash has commenced In other news, a woman has died and a man charged following an Anzac Day collision in Yarrawonga and Wangaratta police targeted a group of hoon drivers early on Friday morning. Today's top stories curated by our news team Grab a quick bite of today's latest news from around the region and the nation Catch up on the news of the day and unwind with great reading for your evening Get the editor's insights: what's happening & why it matters tips & travel writing to transport you around the globe Your weekday morning newsletter on national affairs Your essential national news digest: all the big issues on Wednesday and great reading every Saturday Let the ACM network's editors and journalists bring you news and views from all over reviews and expert insights every Thursday from CarExpert Your digital replica of Today's Paper Test your skills with interactive crosswords Information about working in or operating early childhood education services including outside school hours care information for parents including how to choose a service and supporting your child for their transition to school Skills NSW helps post high school students find courses in vocational training across a wide variety of industries and course providers The NSW Department of Education is committed to employing the best and brightest teachers who can teach and make a difference in NSW public schools NSW Department of Education's information on curriculum taught in NSW schools Aboriginal education and communities & personalised support The NSW Government will purchase land on Kerr Road in Wirlinga to build a new school and preschool The NSW Government has announced the site for the new public primary school and preschool for Thurgoona which will ensure families in this growing Albury community have the world-class education facilities they deserve An agreement has been made for the NSW Government to purchase land on Kerr Road in Wirlinga with the new school and preschool being planned and delivered to accommodate future enrolments from 2027 The former government failed to deliver the new school during its 12 years in government only promising a school on the eve of an election Planning for the school is being done in line with the Thurgoona-Wirlinga Precinct Structure Plan and will take into account significant future population growth and expanding infrastructure The public preschool will be co-located with the primary school as part of the NSW Government’s commitment to deliver 100 public preschools across NSW Community members can learn more about the project at a drop-in information session at Thurgoona Public School Hall on Tuesday 25 March from 3.30-7pm The NSW Department of Education is working closely with Albury City Council and the Department of Planning and the community will be updated as planning continues As part of the NSW Government's plan to rebuild public education the 2024-25 Budget is delivering $8.9 billion for new and upgraded schools including $1.4 billion for schools in regional NSW This targeted investment will ensure growing communities get access to a world class public education NSW Deputy Premier and Minister for Education and Early Learning Prue Car said: “The Minns Labor Government is excited to announce the site for the new local primary school and co-located public preschool for Albury’s growing Thurgoona area “This school will offer state-of-the-art classrooms and facilities designed to support students in their crucial early years of learning serving a community undergoing significant growth and change the former Liberal National Government let down families in Albury having failed to deliver a new school for the growing Thurgoona community during its 12 years in office “After years of inaction by the Liberal National Government the Minns Labor Government is delivering this project that Albury families deserve “This is an important step forward in meeting the long-term educational needs of this growing community and I look forward to seeing this project come to life.” We recognise the Ongoing Custodians of the lands and waterways where we work and live We pay respect to Elders past and present as ongoing teachers of knowledge We strive to ensure every Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander learner in NSW achieves their potential through education I understand and agree that my personal information will be collected, stored and used, in accordance with the PGA of Australia's privacy policy Some of the biggest names in Australian golf over the past 30 years will be on show when the 54-hole NSW Senior Open returns to Albury in late October 54-hole tournament is an integral part of the PGA Legends Tour This year’s event will be the seventh edition at the Thurgoona Golf & Country Club Resort.  said the tournament was an extremely popular event for players “We are thrilled to continue to bring one of our most popular tournaments back to the Albury region and the Thurgoona Country Club,” said Graeme Phillipson “The sporting public of the Murray region and the Liverpool Catholic Club have supported this event from its inception and it is a pleasure to continue to return to a venue and city where everyone involved in the tournament “Golf is the number one pastime Australia-wide for those over 50 and the popularity of tournaments like the NSW Senior Open assists us in promoting the game as the ideal recreational activity for young and old,” Mr is expected to defend his championship crown against a field which is likely to feature many of the greats of Australasian Golf • Peter Lonard: a nine-time winner on the PGA Tour of Australasia and a US & European Tour winner• Andre Stolz – current leader of the PGA Legends Tour Order of Merit• Mathew Goggin the 2024 Runner Up• Scott Barr – Asian Tour winner and PGA Legends Tour regular• Terry Price – European Tour winner• Steven Conran – Japan Tour winner Other notables and past champions expected to play include Peter O’Malley PGA Legends Tour Coordinator Andy Rogers said the tour and its players were excited by the opportunity to return to Thurgoona for a record seventh time having enjoyed all previous six stagings on the Murray River “We’re absolutely thrilled to be heading back to Thurgoona again this year for the NSW Senior Open,” Rogers said.  “The players have become very familiar with not only the course but the surrounding area as well This event is a significant part of the PGA Legends Tour schedule and to return to a host venue that has proven itself time and again as a perfect fit is very exciting.” The fan experience at this year’s tournament will allow unparalleled access Spectators can walk the fairways beside their favourite players and see golf played at its best “There won’t be a better opportunity for sports fans in the Albury region to get up close and personal to witness the legends in action,” Adam Fitzgerald general manager of the Thurgoona Country Club Resort The Thurgoona Country Club Resort is a par 72 18-hole championship course measuring 6372 metres A Peter Thomson & Mike Wolveridge design the course features couch fairways and large bent grass greens Tournament Dates: October 31st – November 2nd • 82 players from the 2025 Legends Tour exemption categories• 1 Player from Asian Senior Tour• 32 Amateur players from Golf NSW exemption categories• Five professional pre-qualifying positions 2024 David McKenzie (Vic)2023: Adam Henwood (Vic)2022: Richard Green (Vic)2020: Brad Burns (QLD)2019: Michael Long (NZL)2018: Grant Kenny (NSW) Photo: Victorian David McKenzie is expected to defend his NSW Senior Open Crown later this year For the latest news and scores on Australian golf Subscribe © 2025 PGA of Australia | Powered by Advertise with us File pictureYackandandah has outlasted a plucky Thurgoona by 12-points to notch its first win of the season at Butson Park on Saturday Another loss to the Bulldogs would have proven to be a dagger to the heart of their finals aspirations considering the extremely tight nature of the competition the Bulldogs were equally desperate for another four points after starting the season 2-2 and needed a big scalp to stay in touch with the top-five The Bulldogs matched the home side for most of the first-half with Charlie Williams Lincoln Hardy and Luke Gerecke helping establish a lead nearing the half-time break two goals to the Roos in the final minute of the term helped wrestle back the momentum with Bulldogs coach Daniel McAlister livid with his players at the half-time break The Roos went into the main break with an eight point buffer despite the Bulldogs having more scoring shots Both sides booted eight goals each in the second-half but it was Roos captain Ben McIntosh alongside Johann Jarratt, Casey George, Malachi Owers, and Nick Donaghey that ensured a 17.11 (113) to 15.11 (101) win Ben McIntosh said there were some promising signs against Barnawartha last week that the Roos were improving after a slow start to the season File pictureMcIntosh said the Roos were relieved to finally get a win after the heartbreak of losing to Barnawartha the previous week in the dying seconds "We have been trending in the right direction but our conversion killed us last week," McIntosh said "On Saturday it was good to get the result and help inject a bit of confidence that we are on the right track "We knew Thurgoona were equally desperate to win because they are a quality side and have got some good footballers running around in their side "So we certainly didn't take them lightly and they have got some really good young talent which is going to help them in years to come "These sorts of tough matches will only help fast track their development." Thurgoona coach Daniel McAlister has his side sitting seventh with a 2-3 record after five rounds File pictureMcIntosh conceded the Roos' finals aspirations were on the line against the Bulldogs with history firmly against the reigning premier if they had of slipped to 0-5 "We were fully aware what was at stake on the weekend," he said "The message in the lead-up was to get to training and do the work "We were able to do that and now hopefully things will start to swing in our favour a bit more now "We just need to get back to what worked well for us last year "Obviously most sides in the league have improved this year where we probably haven't "Some of our blokes just thought we have got the same side and expected the same result but the league has probably improved by 20 percent "The first four weeks probably woke a few blokes up that it's never easy to get to the top of the mountain Can the Roos climb the mountain again and go back-to-back File picture"History says going back-to-back is normally harder than winning the first one "Since 2007 only Thurgoona and Chiltern have achieved the feat to highlight how hard it is "So it's a good learning experience that you can never afford to take your foot of the gas "It's probably fair to say that a few blokes took a few shortcuts over the pre-season and are not as fit as last year "We have also gone away from our game plan a bit which leaves us open and susceptible at times and out on our feet "Blokes recognise now that they aren't where they should be and are now doing the work to get back to where they should be "The good thing is it's only early and round 5 we have identified the issues and now we have time on our hands to rectify it." Newsletters & AlertsView allDaily Transport for NSW is developing design options to improve traffic efficiency and safety at the Hume Highway and Thurgoona Drive intersections The Hume Highway through Albury is classified as an inner bypass and separates the Albury CBD from East Albury and Thurgoona A number of east-west connections including pedestrian and cyclist overpasses provide connectivity between residents and services east and west of the Hume Highway The interchange at Thurgoona Drive currently experiences congestion and queuing in the morning and afternoon peak hours and is anticipated to become more congested as residential and business development in this area increases Transport for NSW is in the planning stages of a project to improve traffic efficiency and safety at the Hume Highway and Thurgoona Drive intersections and is developing design options Design options are expected to future-proof the intersection for 20 years we need to investigate improvements to the current transport network in the area Transport for NSW has summarised community feedback received during consultation focused on improved safety and traffic flow through the Hume Highway and Thurgoona Drive Interchange at Albury Dual lanes and a path providing better connectivity are some of the key points received in the feedback A report summarising the feedback has been published in a community consultation summary report (PDF, 373.34 KB) Transport is investigating ways to improve traffic flow and road safety at the interchange which currently experiences congestion and queueing during peak periods Transport will use feedback received from the community consultation to refine and develop the design options for the interchange and is committed to working with the community while developing plans for Albury’s future transport network The Hume Highway and Thurgoona Drive intersection upgrades aim to benefit the community by: This project is in the very early planning stages Community feedback will inform the design options and help ensure Thurgoona Drive is improved in safety and provides better-connected transport services on either side of the Hume Highway We will keep you updated as planning progresses For further information about this project Email: SouthProjects@transport.nsw.gov.au Mail: Thurgoona Drive Intersection Upgrades project team Transport for NSW recognise and celebrate the diversity of Aboriginal peoples and their ongoing cultures and care of Country We pay respect to traditional custodians and Elders past and present Tasmanian Matt Goggin is set to take his first swing on the PGA Legends Tour when the NSW Senior Open gets underway at Thurgoona Country Club Resort this Friday Goggin had been looking to tee it up in this week’s Queensland PGA Championship on the Challenger PGA Tour of Australasia to get some competitive golf under his belt he realised he’d be better off taking his chances against the over-50 brigade and I was looking at the schedule thinking I’ll play the Queensland PGA,” he said “It dawned on me that I should check the Legends Tour schedule so instead of trying to beat up on those 20-year-olds Like several of the growing Aussie presence on the PGA TOUR Champions Goggin hopes to use this week’s NSW Senior Open and the Australian Senior PGA (next week at Richmond Golf Club) to springboard himself onto the lucrative senior tour The NSW Senior Open has become a launchpad for a bunch of Aussies looking to the US and allowing players like Goggin to hone their skills before PGA TOUR Champions Qualifying School. The contingent Stateside now includes several players who made their local tour debut in this event before heading to the US Richard Green (the 2022 NSW Senior Open Champ) former Australian Open Champion Stephen Allen (who debuted in the NSW Snr Open in 2023) who made his senior debut at this year’s US Senior Open and finished tied 51st “It’s like a time warp out there,” he explained “The funny thing is the caddies are the same so it’s like the players they work for all the way through are still out there “It’s a little bit of a Twilight Zone feeling But it is good to see everyone and run into a few guys who I played quite a bit through the years.” Although unfamiliar with this week’s venue Goggin said he was excited to play and revisit some places he hadn’t played in since his amateur days “I played the (NSW Open) at Rich River last year and I played Cobram-Barooga back in my amateur days but I haven’t played much golf along the Murray So it’s nice to get up here and look around.” “I haven’t played a tournament for a couple of months so you always feel a bit not so sharp and don’t know what to expect I’ll get into the week and put a few good scores together.” Goggin is immersed in bringing a world-class course to life in Tasmania with his Seven Mile Beach project He balances the complexities of course design with his athletic ambitions so I’ve been doing all the permit handling and organising.” Goggin admitted the process had been a steep learning curve but it was a challenge he had become engrossed in “I’ve had to become an expert in things I had no desire to be an expert in,” he laughed Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueEastern traffic was closed for several hours after Wednesday morning's incident Investigators said no further police action was required after the February 19 incident A crane had been taken to the scene to clear the damaged vehicle EARLIER: Thurgoona Drive remains closed to eastbound traffic after a loaded Boral concrete truck rollover on Wednesday morning Emergency crews were called to the incident about 7.50am on February 19 rolled near the northbound Hume Highway on-ramp The area surrounding the incident remains closed to vehicles at 9.30am Two heavy haulage vehicles are at the scene Vehicles are being redirected south on Catherine Crescent while western traffic from Thurgoona towards Lavington is not impacted The incident has caused delays around the scene Today's top stories curated by our news team. Grab a quick bite of today's latest news from around the region and the nation. Catch up on the news of the day and unwind with great reading for your evening. Get the editor's insights: what's happening & why it matters. Going out or staying in? Find out what's on. Love footy? We've got all the action covered. The latest news, results & expert analysis. Every Saturday and Tuesday, explore destinations deals, tips & travel writing to transport you around the globe. Sharp. Close to the ground. Digging deep. Your weekday morning newsletter on national affairs, politics and more. Your essential national news digest: all the big issues on Wednesday and great reading every Saturday. Get real, Australia! Let the ACM network's editors and journalists bring you news and views from all over. Get news, reviews and expert insights every Thursday from CarExpert, ACM's exclusive motoring partner. Your digital replica of Today's Paper. Ready to read from 5am! Test your skills with interactive crosswords, sudoku & trivia. Fresh daily! File pictureChiltern has rebounded strongly from its surprise loss to Barnawartha the previous round with a hard-fought 20-point win over Thurgoona at Thurgoona on Saturday Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueThe Swans went into the clash with a 1-2 record after consecutive losses to Beechworth and Barnawartha and were desperate for another victory to stay in touch with the top-five Last year's grand finalists led by seven points at the final break and booted three goals to one in the final term to notch their second win of the season 13.10 (88) to 9.14 (68) Adding further merit to the win the Swans went into the clash without top-liners in coach Brad Hibberson and Brayden O'Hara John Pratt and Michael McWilliams were other notable absentees Bodie Hibberson was able to have an impact in his first senior match for the Swans this season. File pictureHowever, they did welcome back premiership midfielder Bodie Hibberson who hadn't played seniors so far this season after the popular Swan attended two different weddings. The Bulldogs sorely missed classy midfielder Mat Howard who received a three-match suspension the previous round against Rutherglen The home side manufactured the same amount of scoring shots as the Swans but some sloppy conversion in front of goal prove costly in the final wash-up Mat Howard missed for the Bulldogs on the weekend through suspension File pictureHibberson was relieved to secure another crucial four points and move to 2-2 as opposed to 1-3 "Winning on the weekend is a massive difference compared to losing," Hibberson said "Any loss could come back to haunt you this year with up to eight clubs with legitimate finals aspirations "There will be a lot of clubs fighting for that fifth spot which is good for the competition "Everyone knows when you head to Thurgoona you are in for a tough hard and physical contest on its smaller ground "Thurgoona are a tough side who are hard at the contest "We had three of our midfielders out as well as our ruckman so we had to reshuffle the side around a bit "One of the most pleasing aspects of the win was we didn't have a standout player and everyone contributed "The blokes doing the awards had a tough job because we have three cards with the top-six and each card had a lot of different names "That's something that we have been lacking in the early rounds have the whole team contribute opposed to three or four standouts and the rest struggling to have an impact." The Swans now face a rampaging Kiewa-Sandy Creek at Chiltern who have been spanking sides and have an average winning margin of 82-points Chiltern host Kiewa-Sandy Creek this weekend in a replay of last year's preliminary final File pictureHibberson was quick to label the Hawks as the new flag favourites after reigning premier Yackandandah suffered its fourth consecutive loss on the weekend against Barnawartha "They have got the three-headed monster in attack in Newnham Telford and Paul who are kicking goals for them and have the ability to stretch any defence in the competition "All over the ground they don't have a weak link "I'm not entirely sure how healthy their list is at the moment but the seem to have most players available at the moment "We always look forward to the challenge of playing Kiewa two goods sides going at it and whoever performs on the day Picture by Blair ThomsonSpinning play equipment has been closed at a Thurgoona park after reports the device has severed fingers Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueAlbury Council staff addressed the issue on Tuesday after a social media post reported multiple injuries at Ernest Grant Park and the newly reopened Fredericks Park in North Albury Council staff said they were aware of the Ernest Grant Park incident but no such issues had been reported at Fredericks Park Two children had reportedly had fingers severed by the devices The equipment at the Thurgoona site was installed in early 2023. has a small gap between the spinning section and ground of only a few millimetres The Playdale manufactured equipment in use during a media event in March 2023 File picture "AlburyCity is aware of the incidents that have occurred at Ernest Grant Park involving the accessible carousel and has been in touch with the affected community members," a council spokesman said on October 8 "We have closed this piece of play equipment until further notice while we carry out inspections to determine the cause of the incident "This will be in conjunction with the equipment manufacturer "Signage has been posted at the playground informing the public that the carousel is temporarily closed "AlburyCity is committed to the safety of our community and undertake regular playground audits to inspect the condition of the play equipment and facilities in our play spaces." While a similar device has been installed at Fredericks Park in North Albury which appears to have a slightly different design The Fredericks Park upgrades were unveiled on September 27. The council spokesman did not comment on the extent of the injuries caused at Ernest Grant Park due to privacy reasons Picture by Mark JesserTHURGOONACoach: Daniel McAlister Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueLast year: Fifth (12-5-1) Gains: Cody Howard (Perth), Cody Mannagh (Lavington) Losses: Tom Osmotherly (Wodonga), Nick Brennan (golf), Riley Kerr Tom Rake has been appointed skipper at kennel again this season Picture by Mark JesserQ&A WITH DANIEL McALISTERWho starts the season flag favourites and why?: Yackandandah has to start the season as flag favourites With minimal departures over the off-season and their evenness across every line it's hard to find a chink in the Roos' armour I also have the utmost respect for premiership coach Justin Maybury who is a smart operator and too good of a coach to let this group just simply drop away and be remembered as one-hit wonders Bulldogs defender Riley Kemp at pre-season training Picture by Mark JesserYour likely top-five in no particular order?: For the record I'm happy to put my top-five in finishing order Beechworth and toss a coin between Chiltern and Thurgoona for fifth spot Fijian recruit Jekesoni Koroi is a man mountain and previously played for Hume league club CDHBU several years ago Picture by Mark JesserWhich side is likely to be the biggest improver?: Rutherglen has enjoyed a productive off-season which isn't surprising I rate VB (Van Berlo) as one of the more popular coaches in the competition and it's not surprising to see him attract so many recruits I can see the Cats making huge inroads up the ladder especially considering they have a friendly draw They only play two of last year's finalists in the first six rounds which almost guarantees eight wins and then only need perhaps one or two more to make the top-five Bulldogs onballer Mat Howard is set to be joined in the midfield this season by his younger brother Picture by Mark JesserBest player in the competition?: It's hard to go past Marty Brennan at Rutherglen My spies also tell me that a change of scenery has rejuvenated Brayden O'Hara who has lost a few kgs since joining Chiltern and has his rig is in similar condition to when he was running around the Albury sportsground in his prime Then at the kennel we have Cody Howard who has been turning plenty of heads on the training track and is the type of player that should have a big impact in the TDFL Best recruit in the competition over the off-season?: I think the most hype surrounds Marty Brennan and personally I love to see when a player returns to his junior club after proving himself at a higher standard Marty is a dual best and fairest and premiership player at Lavington and at only 28 is still in the prime of his career There is no doubt Marty will have a huge say in how far the Cats progress in September and is the sort of player who thrives on the big stage of finals Cody Mannagh has returned to the kennel after a stint at Lavington and played in the Bulldogs' most recent flag in 2019 Picture by Mark JesserWhich recruit at your club excites you the most and why?: Definitely Cody Howard and it's hard not to get excited about how good he could be this season No doubt Cody returns from a stint in the WAFL at the peak of his powers and has played under some astute coaches which has been good for his development His energy at training is infectious and he has come back for the right reasons and wants to play alongside his older brother in Mat He now also has his big mate Jeke from Fiji at the club and you can sense how proud they are of their culture and their competitive nature is second to none so it's going to be fascinating to see how big of an impact he can have this season Who has been the standout at pre-season training so far?: Other than Cody we have a young player in Linc Hardy that has matured and really wants to get the best out of himself Linc may have enjoyed a good time in the past but this pre-season has really knuckled down and worked really hard on the track and takes every opportunity he can to improve himself He is definitely lighting up the track at the moment and has set himself for a big season Cody Howard arrives at the kennel with a big reputation after spending time in the WAFL with Perth Picture by Mark JesserWhat do you feel is the biggest issue in country football at the moment?: There are quite a few issues and dwindling junior numbers is a concern that seems to be growing each season I also have concerns about some clubs and their recruiting policy of casting a net as wide as they can and trying to drag in as many recruits as possible Another growing concern is clubs losing their born and bred junior talent without any compensation I realise clubs want their players to aspire to play at the highest level possible but I also feel clubs need to be compensated for all the time and energy they put into nurturing their junior talent only for some other club to reap the dividends What have the numbers been like at pre-season training?: I would say adequate and we certainly haven't been breaking any records We have raised the bar in regards to the standards at training which has met with some resistance and some players have moved on because of that Unfortunately when you are trying to be as successful as possible as a group you quite often don't get a total buy in from the group and some players are squeezed out This time last year we were getting 60 to training but the numbers have been nowhere near that since we resumed from the Christmas break Big Bulldog 'Kev' Gerecke made the switch from defence to attack last year where he had a big impact as a key forward Picture by Mark JesserDo you feel that you will have a stronger list than last season?: In a nutshell I certainly acknowledge the departure of Tom Osmotherly to Wodonga left a gaping hole in our big man stocks Riley Kerr and Ryan Murray joining Billabong Crows also hurts But I feel we have been able to recruit quite well and our structure is a lot more solid which was our Achilles heel last year and ruthlessly exposed by the good sides in the competition What are your expectations this season?: I expect to play finals which is always the motivating factor when you are going through the slog of a pre-season It's going to be a tight competition and we finished fifth last year with 12 wins and a draw I don't think you will need as many wins this year to play finals and just need to win more games than you lose So internally we know we have to win at least 10 games and we will play finals we will be going out to win every single game and expect to win Tyson Neander enjoyed a standout season last year after crossing from Lavington and winning the Bulldogs' best and fairest Picture by Mark JesserWE SAY: Daniel McAlister was able to lead the Bulldogs to finals last year for the first time since 2019 but faces a much tougher challenge this season to remain a finals contender The loss of giant ruckman Tom Osmotherly alongside key defender Nick Brennan hurts structurally while Riley Kerr and Ryan Murray will also be sorely missed Losing Ollie McAlister to a season-ending knee injury is also a setback Barton medallist Michael Rampal is yet to be spotted at training and his playing future at the kennel remains uncertain The arrival of Cody Howard is undoubtedly one of the biggest of the off-season and he should prove to be a star of the competition by season's end Cody Mannagh is also a proven performer in the TDFL and is another handy addition at the kennel what impact the Bulldogs' remaining recruits could have remains to be seen and you can mount a case that the list may not be as strong as last year The Bulldogs boast a classy midfield with Adam Elias in the ruck and with siblings Mat and Cody Howard best and fairest winner Tyson Neander and skipper Tom Rake Linc Hardy is also expected to rotate through the midfield and could prove to be a surprise packet for the Bulldogs The Bulldogs also boast a solid attack with Jake Bruce Luke Gerecke and Rake when resting forward their defence can look shaky against the top sides and McAlister's biggest concern Finding a suitable replacement for Brennan at centre half-back will be a priority with Eastlake recruit Jono Painting set to be given first crack at filling the key defensive post While the Bulldogs once again boast a list more than capable of making finals their finals aspirations will be determined by their performance against sides like Beechworth Mitta United and Barnawartha who they play twice with the exception of the Tigers If the Bulldogs can win four or five of those seven encounters it will be enough for them to scrape into finals again MITTA UNITED: Gains, losses, Q&A with Beau Packer and prospects this season CHILTERN: Gains, losses, Q&A with Brad Hibberson and prospects this season Picture by James WiltshireNeighbours were among the first at the scene of a Thurgoona home which caught alight and was destroyed All articles from our website & appThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxInteractive Crosswords, Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueFire and Rescue NSW was called to the occupied Telopea Street house, near Elizabeth Mitchell Drive Neighbour Sharon Quirk was watering the garden when she heard a "loud pop" from the house across the road which she dismissed as a gas build-up in the barbecue It was only when she heard a second pop that she looked up to see black smoke coming from behind the house's garage She raced inside her own home to get her husband Mark to call the fire brigade "I said [to him] we've got to get them out the whole roof cavity had started to light up," she said "Mark raced out the front and up their front lawn and was banging on their door helped get the family's dogs out of the burning home and took them to their backyard "We basically stood there and watched their house burn," she said Everyone was evacuated from the house but one male in his 50s remains at Albury hospital after being treated by paramedics for burns to his arm Mrs Quirk said a neighbour whose house is behind the destroyed home was on his fence using a hose to fight the embers while a next-door neighbour was also out with a garden hose spraying down his property said it was "even more full-on than what you see in a movie" She hopes she never has to experience the ferocity of a house fire again with a car also destroyed but nearby properties were not damaged The cause of the fire is being investigated but it is not being treated as suspicious A GoFundMe has been set up to help the family with the costs "Every single memory from the boys' childhoods is gone," the GoFundMe reads "The three of them ran out with literally the only clothes they were wearing on their back no shoes all whilst trying to get the dogs out safely too." The GoFundMe can be found here. Picture by Mark JesserA new 24/7 gym offering specialised equipment and dedicated recovery services has opened in Thurgoona All articles from our website & appThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxInteractive Crosswords, Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueForged Fitness Studio launched on January 18 on the upper level of Thurgoona Plaza The site was home to Plus Fitness which recently relocated to nearby Diamond Drive and was divided to house the new gym and service Woolworths click and collect customers Forged Fitness Studio owners Sophie Mitchell and Allan McLean said they wanted to start a business in an industry they were passionate about "We've hand-selected every piece of equipment here I've had customer service experience and owned a restaurant in Bright has been involved in gyms for nearly two decades and was excited to start his own venture He said what set Forged Fitness apart from other gyms on the Border was its range of equipment from Italian company Panatta "I had a bit of a vision in my head about what a gym would look like in Thurgoona and what equipment would be available," he said "We've thought outside the box to bring in some unique items no one else has "We've got specialised equipment from Italy and the UK you don't see in the area various pin-loaded items and some high-end free weights "The aesthetic is also a point of difference here "We wanted to make it a comfortable and welcoming space It's important for people to know they can come to us for help." Forged Fitness has a dedicated wellness area with private infrared saunas and a contrast therapy room that can be booked for 45-minute sessions an automatic spray tanning booth will be installed Sophie Mitchell and Allan McLean say a unique range of equipment and its wellness area will set Forged Fitness Studio apart from other Border gyms. Picture by Mark JesserMr McLean said with Thurgoona's rapid growth he felt another gym was needed to service its population the challenge was to make the most of the smaller space given that the building had been reduced from around 550 square metres to 330 "We went through the floorplan more than 50 times to get it right," he said Everyone has really appreciated the variety "We're really enjoying helping people as well." with personal training offered during staffed hours but we also offer expert personal training but we're always available via messages through the website Forged Fitness Studio will be staffed from 7am to 10.30am and 3pm to 8pm Monday through Thursday 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 Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueLast season: Third Gains: Gemma Baird (Riddell District Football Netball League), Jess Black, Jess Evans (Albury Tigers) Losses: Mardi Haydon (pregnant), Tayla Dean (relocated to Cairns) Players have come back very fit and focused It's been fun and we've had lots of returning players Any players we should keep an eye on this season It's probably the combinations we're finding exciting at the moment. We have some new combinations that are evolving and developing. Amy (Allen) had a standout season last year so we're looking for her to consolidate that and Gemma Baird is going to be really good for us this year Demii Morey has departed Barnawartha to join the Bulldogs this season File pictureWhat are your expectations this season We have some new players and some returning players and they've complemented what we already had We're probably looking at finals again this year Who do you expect to see among the top teams I think Kiewa, Chiltern, Tallangatta - the usual suspects. But I think we're probably expecting a closer competition this year. Dederang was great last year and they will be again and I think Yack has built over the pre-season I think we're expecting a lot of tough games this year Tayla Dean has left Thurgoona this season after relocating to Cairns File picture by James WiltshireWe say: The Bulldogs are a renowned force for finals and should be in the mix again this season who recently led the club's B-grade to back to back flags Gemma Baird will be a player to watch as she debuts in the league while the side has lost experience at both ends of the court with the losses of Haydon and Dean Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueAlbury MP Justin Clancy told parliament on Tuesday that he was moving a notice in the Legislative Assembly that "calls on the government to update the community and demonstrate action on this important community need" He said there was "concern within the community over the lack of information regarding to planning and site acquisition" The move by Mr Clancy means the issue may be subject to debate in Macquarie Street this week depending on the parliamentary business calendar It follows the Liberal MP writing to Labor Education Minister Prue Car in January seeking an update on the new public school and preschool The Parliamentary Secretary for Education and Early Learning replied "the school design is progressing well" without providing any details of a site or timing of an opening The Border Mail asked Ms Car's office on Tuesday, February 18, whether the school would be open by 2027, as was indicated by the previous government's Education Minister Sarah Mitchell in 2023 In reply, a spokeswoman said: "The Minns Labor government is on track to deliver a new primary school and new public preschool for Thurgoona after the former Liberal National Government failed to deliver a new school for this community over the last 12 years "The site selection process is well underway and we look forward to sharing updates with the community as work progresses." Albury mayor Kevin Mack welcomed Mr Clancy raising the issue saying he "absolutely" shared the politician's frustration "We've made representation to them about the education precinct and certainly the land has been set aside but we've had nothing and we keep asking the question and we just get the wave off," Cr Mack said He said land around the Charles Sturt University campus was viewed as a likely site for the school "In the initial iteration of discussions that was put forward as a suitable site they looked at the site and they thought it was suitable," Cr Mack said it has everything that is required to service the university and it's an education precinct." The Border Mail asked Ms Car's office if the government would locate the school as part of an education precinct with the university and that query went unanswered Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueThe service will be the first since the centre was formed in 1980 and is the brainchild of retired army soldier Jason Gardner Centre co-ordinator Sherylyne Moran said she was looking forward to seeing the Thurgoona community come together to commemorate men and women who have served the nation "The TCC hall will be the indoor venue for this significant event offering a local opportunity for residents to pay their respects," she said "Spearheading the initiative is TCC chair Jason Gardner "Jason's passion for honouring soldiers inspired this event He just retired from the army and is keenly aware of all the symbolism and has a real passion for this Mr Gardner said he wanted to provide a friendly and accessible Anzac commemoration for the Thurgoona community He said the dawn service would feature former Albury MP Greg Aplin with a catafalque party comprising soldiers from the Army School of Health The Thurgoona Community Centre will hold its first Anzac Day dawn service on Friday Picture suppliedReverend Paul Sheely from Albury Presbyterian Church will deliver a homily centred on the profound theme of sacrifice for one's friends Community centre volunteers will prepare a wreath made from native flora reflecting a natural connection between the community Thurgoona Community Centre chair and retired army soldier Jason Gardner is spearheading the inaugural dawn service this Friday Picture suppliedMr Gardner said he was enthusiastic about seeing the event widely attended I understand the importance of Anzac Day and the opportunity it provides to remember and honour the sacrifices made for our country," he said "We are delighted to be hosting this inaugural dawn service at the Thurgoona Community Centre and look forward to welcoming our local community for a meaningful and friendly gathering." Post-service Anzac biscuits and hot beverages will be served by TCC volunteers died two days later.A man facing trial over a fatal Thurgoona crash that killed a teen girl says he remembers seeing very bright lights in front of him Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueAlbury District Court heard Daniel Brendon Hosie's Ford Ranger utility crossed double lines on the Riverina Highway The Ford and an oncoming Holden Astra crashed Ella Ball, 16, who was in the Holden Other family members including her older sister Hosie is accused of having a blood alcohol reading of 0.169 after the crash Albury District Court heard Daniel Brendon Hosie's Ford Ranger utility crossed double lines on the Riverina Highway died two days later.He is facing a judge-alone trial after being charged with offences including aggravated dangerous driving occasioning death The court on Monday viewed Hosie's interview with police the day after the crash Hosie said he was travelling east and "come upon a car with extremely bright lights "And that's all I remember at this stage," he told an investigator Hosie made multiple references to the headlights during his interview but the court heard the Holden had the manufacturer's headlights fitted and no additional light bars or spotlights Hosie said he had been performing work at home before the crash and believed he had "a couple of drinks around lunch time The scene of the crash on the Riverina Highway File picture"Like a Woodstock bourbon," he said He believed he had been at Bunnings before the crash and was driving home to Table Top but said he had memory loss and could only recall "bits and pieces" Hosie said he hadn't used drugs and had had normal sleep the previous night File pictureHis vehicle rolled onto its roof in the impact Questions were raised in court over whether the highway was dry or damp at the time of the crash viewed photographs showing damage to the Astra which appeared locked in place at about 69kmh The Astra was driven by the late girl's father The court heard the car wasn't mechanically examined as police did not believe the Astra contributed to the crash The trial before Judge Jennifer English continues Family members gave The Border Mail permission to name the late 16-year-old Tom Cartledge and Degan Dolny were all superb in the Bushrangers' thrilling victory over Thurgoona File picturesFinals contender Beechworth produced a stirring last-quarter fightback to snatch a thrilling seven point victory over Thurgoona at Thurgoona on Saturday Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueThe Bulldogs look set for victory at the final change leading by 16-points with Mason Kannenberg Cody Howard and Luke Gerecke leading the charge for the home side But a stunning six goal to two final term by the Bushrangers helped clinch a 14.7 (91) to 12.12 (84) victory in coach Jack Neil's first match at the helm The visitors were inspired in the last term by former coach Tom Cartledge who booted two crucial goals and help spark the comeback With several Bulldogs cramping up in the last term in the hot conditions on the weekend the super-fit Cartledge racked-up several telling possessions with his superior fitness Cartledge also bobbed-up with the match-winning goal late in the contest to seal the memorable victory Lukas Jakobbson was BOG with the usual suspects in Lachie Armstrong Degan Dolny and Cartledge also four-quarter performers Neil was impressed with his side's never-say-die attitude and ability to overrun the Bulldogs Jack Neil led Kiewa-Sandy Creek to two grand final defeats in 2022-23 but was lured to Beechworth as coach this season after having last year off to recharge the batteries but I would much rather if we didn't have to claw our way back from that much behind," Neil said "It was a solid win and we have worked hard over the off-season on a new game style "As a group we know it is not going to work all the time and it will take time to adjust "But the message was to stick in the contest for as long as we could to create the opportunities we needed gritted their teeth in that last-quarter and got the job done late in the match "Internally we rate our fitness as one of our biggest assets and we noticed a few Thurgoona players struggling with cramps in the last-quarter "So we just wanted to move the ball as fast as we could "Tommy Cartledge who we all know is a running machine kicked a couple of goals in the last term and had some important touches when other players were running on empty "From memory it was Tommy who kicked the sealer." The Bushrangers swung a selection surprise after star midfielder Connor Stone was included in the side Star midfielder Connor Stone recently recommitted to the Bushrangers for another season in a huge boost to their finals aspirations File pictureStone who travelled from Melbourne last year to play had initially decided against travelling but recently committed to another season with the Bushrangers Neil felt winning close encounters could prove the difference between playing finals this season considering how tight the competition is expected to be Kiewa and Chiltern should play finals but after that there is a log-jam of six or seven sides fighting for the remaining two spots inside the top-five," he said "So anytime you face a side in that bracket they are huge matches in regards to your finals aspirations "We didn't speak about that in the lead-up mainly because I didn't want to add any extra pressure and every club in that space like ours knows if you drop a 50-50 match you will need to pick-up another win along the way to make amends Rutherglen and Tallangatta are the two biggest improvers in the competition so it was a crucial win by us to get the points against Thurgoona The Bulldogs will be desperate to avoid a 0-2 start to the season when they host Rutherglen this weekend Picture by James WiltshireA Thurgoona home was gutted by fire early on Saturday morning before the blaze was quickly extinguished by fire crews Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueFive fire trucks attended the Tallowwood Street property after a triple zero call was received at 2.20am Fire and Rescue NSW Superintendent Stewart Alexander said the house was well alight when firefighters arrived He said the fire was intense with parts of the roof caving in "We believe it started in a bedroom but that's all subject to an investigation," Superintendant Alexander said "One of the occupants there was taken to hospital as a precaution we think he was the only one in the house at the time "Firefighters had it under control pretty quickly but they had some access difficulties with some items in and around the gates Fire crews quickly extinguished a blaze at Thurgoona on Saturday morning after initially having access difficulties Picture by James Wiltshire"But they got around that and had the fire under control within 30 minutes." Superintendent Alexander said the incident highlighted the need for people to be careful during the cold winter months absolutely at any time of year you need to be careful and certainly you must have a working smoke alarm "It was good that people were quick to call triple zero to get emergency services there." after inspecting plans for the new public school planned for the area Picture by James WiltshirePlans for a new Thurgoona primary school have left parents and grandparents impressed Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueLarge signs featuring information and images went on display at the Thurgoona Public School hall for a community drop-in session after classes ended on Tuesday It followed the NSW government announcing in February the site for the school which is due to open in 2027 will be on the eastern side of Kerr Road near the Yarrabee Park estate Maydee and Tim Sparkes are among the prospective parents of pupils at the new school with their daughter Gertrude aged two "It's good to know it is happening because this one is bursting at the seams," Mr Sparkes said as they spoke to The Border Mail outside the entrance to Thurgoona Public Mrs Sparkes added: "We bought a house here 12 months ago and hope the new school is here for her." She was pleased with the design of classrooms with common areas and the inclusion of a preschool to allow for an easier transition Some of the information boards set up on easels for examination by interested people They included pictures of how the school and preschool may appear inside and outside Picture by James WiltshireGrandparents Graeme and Georgia Jeffery who moved from Oakleigh in Melbourne to Thurgoona six years ago have one grandchild at their suburb's existing public school and another due to begin kindergarten in 2026 which involved him touring regional areas and appearing at TAFE campuses Mr Jeffery was delighted with what he saw on display boards "I'm pretty impressed actually with the design and layout the number of classrooms and the forward planning with parking and expansion," Mr Jeffery said Treechangers Graeme and Georgia Jeffery were among the scores of people who dropped in to look at designs for Thurgoona's second government primary school Picture by James WiltshireThe images featured pictures of a three-storey classroom hub and a two-storey administrative centre The preschool area would be separated from the school by a communal hall He is now pleased to see the Labor government move on the matter File pictureAlbury MP Justin Clancy and a local community group have welcomed details of a site for a new public primary school in Thurgoona with hope it may trigger movement for a government high school in the area Doors to the classrooms are expected to open in 2027 with the school near the Yarrabee Park estate Mr Clancy lauded the decision "as a positive step providing the community with visibility over the chosen location and ensuring local families can plan for the future" "This project was secured during my first term in Parliament to meet the needs of our growing community and it has taken quite some time for the current government to land on a site," Mr Clancy said "Whilst the Deputy Premier has chosen to take a political swipe in the announcement my focus will continue to be on delivering real outcomes for our community." Mr Clancy was referencing Ms Car's comment that "unfortunately the former Liberal National government let down families in Albury having failed to deliver a new school for the growing Thurgoona community during its 12 years in office" Thurgoona Wirlinga Community Action Group secretary Sally Hendy said it was exciting to have a location it wasn't exactly our most preferred location which would have been a bit further along Thurgoona Drive near a proposed regional sports centre but it's near major residential areas like Brooklyn Fields and should have a good connection for the link road [from the Hume Freeway to Kerr Road]," Mrs Hendy said She hopes the decision may spur the Education Department into providing a public high school in Thurgoona with the nearest one at Lavington in the form of Murray High School "We've raised it with them several times and been told while there is space in the other [government] high schools there wouldn't be a change but they should be planning now," Mrs Hendy said Meanwhile, a bid by Albury councillor Geoff Hudson to have a report done on deviations from the council's 2013 Thurgoona-Wirlinga precinct structure plan ahead of a new version being released has not won the support of fellow councillors. His notice of motion was defeated 6-2 with only mayor Kevin Mack supporting him Other councillors expressed concern about such an analysis delaying the 2025 report which city development service leader David Christy was expected to present in draft form to the council at the end of April hopes a move to provide additional comparative material from 2013 with the new report will come to fruition "If there is collation of data within that plan which shows what has been done and not done as well as some clear way to address that and do better then that would be a good outcome," she said Picture by Mark JesserThe first release of a new Border residential subdivision to be carved into more than 120 lots will soon be on the market All articles from our website & appThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxInteractive Crosswords, Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueStage three of Thurgoona development Somerset Rise, off Ava Avenue, nestled behind Trinity Anglican College has been approved for 128 allotments ranging from 505 to 1375 square metres The sale of the land on Stanton Drive is being overseen by Border agencies Dixon Commercial Real Estate and Project Delivery Co with titles for the first two parts of the development Dixon Commercial Real Estate director Andrew Dixon said the land was bought by the Wayne family who are based in Sydney but had been long-standing clients of his agency "They bought the site off Nordcon and Henry Dinning which was a parcel of land approved for a 128-lot residential development," Mr Dixon said but we've asked Project Delivery Co to act as a conjunctional agent as they have a background in residential development." Project Delivery Co director Kait Davis said the land would be considered premium owing to its proximity to Thurgoona's schools and amenities there is a beautiful creek crossing and natural habitat around the whole lot," she said Stage three of the Somerset Rise estate in Thurgoona will eventually be developed into 128 residential lots Picture by Mark Jesser"It has got the undulation with an outlook to Red Light Hill "It's next to the largest growing school in the district and it is one of the last remaining infill sites "It will be a controlled release [of lots] and we'll progressively work our way through." Contractor AP Delaney and Co is completing earthmoving works on the site All inquiries are to be directed to Dixon Commercial Real Estate and Project Delivery Co Picture by James WiltshireA Thurgoona home has been destroyed by fire only days before Christmas Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinuePolice paramedics and firefighters attended the Telopea Street fire Fire and Rescue NSW were called to the house at about 8.10pm Fire and Rescue NSW zone commander Stewart Alexander said the home was "totally destroyed" but other neighbouring properties were not impacted. "We had concerns that the neighbouring properties were under threat because, given the intense and well-developed fire that it was, that could impact those homes, but fortunately, it did not," he said. Everyone safely evacuated from the house but one male in his 50s remains at Albury Hospital after being treated by paramedics for burns to his arm. The cause of the fire is being investigated but it is not being treated as suspicious. Splitters Creek and Howlong Rural Rural Fire Brigades are attending a haystack fire on the Riverina Highway on Monday morning. Picture from Splitters Creek Rural Rural Fire Brigade Facebook.Meanwhile, in other news, Splitters Creek and Howlong Rural Rural Fire Brigades were attending a haystack fire on the Riverina Highway on Monday morning, about four kilometres east of Howlong. Picture by Mark JesserThurgoona's only pub will reopen by the end of January after a six-month closure to complete a major transformation All articles from our website & appThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxInteractive Crosswords, Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueThe Kinross Woolshed is set to welcome patrons back on January 24 Builders have been on the site full-time since late July to complete the works while a ten-pin bowling alley will be operational later in the year Co-owner Peter Griffiths, who purchased the venue with his wife, Adrienne, in 2022 said the goal was to open the Kinross before Christmas He said there was a focus on ensuring the woolshed's heritage was retained "It's going to be something pretty special," Mr Griffiths said "It's designed by Techne [Architecture + Interior Design], who did the Astor for us as well They've done a great job and kept the integrity of the woolshed There's reverse-cycle air conditioning throughout the place lots of open fireplaces and great outdoor areas "There's going to be something for everybody." An artist's impression of the new outdoor dining areas at Thurgoona Kinross Woolshed. Picture suppliedKinross Woolshed will employ around 70 staff "We're very aware of the history of the Kinross and the ups and downs and we've thought that through in our design to make sure the kitchen is big enough to cope with the volume," he said "The bars and all the facilities have been designed for a good volume of people we saw a huge uplift in trade from when we bought it An artist's impression of one of Kinross Woolshed's indoor dining spaces Picture suppliedMr Griffiths said the venue would have 700 seats inside as well as alfresco decks and a function room to accommodate patrons "The total refurbishment has gone very quickly when you see the scale of the work," he said and the turnaround from what it was to what it will be is pretty significant "The activity out at Thurgoona is amazing with Coles going in there and there seems to be a new commercial development starting there every other month "I think it's overdue for the amount of people out there File pictureChiltern coach Georgia Thomas believes the Swans still have improvements to make despite claiming their fourth consecutive victory Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueThe reigning premiers toppled Thurgoona 48-53 after maintaining the lead in the close encounter on the Bulldogs' home turf "We definitely have things to work on coming away from that but it was good to get over the line and finish the job across four quarters," Thomas said Zoe Rae landed 33 goals for the Swans New recruit Gemma Baird continues to showcase her accuracy in front of goal this season The Swans were without midcourter Jess Tolley and defender Molly McKane but hope to welcome them back for next round's grand final rematch against Kiewa-Sandy Creek It's set to be played at the earlier time of 11am Hoppers and Bombers are yet to drop a game after four rounds In other Tallangatta and District netball results Mitta United got over the line by one goal (43-42) in a thriller against Wahgunyah Kiewa-Sandy Creek outclassed Rutherglen 59-17 and Dederang Mt Beauty downed Beechworth 45-28 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 File picture.The NSW government has revealed the location for Thurgoona's long-awaited second public primary school the government has announced it has reached an agreement to buy land fronting Kerr Road for the school and preschool with an aim to having lessons from 2027 The site is north of Thurgoona Drive and on the eastern side of Kerr Road near Longacre Road and close by the Yarrabee Park estate A map supplied to The Border Mail showing the proposed the site in red for a new public school and preschool in Wirlinga.Labor Education Minister Prue Car said in a statement she was thrilled to unveil the location which is in an area rapidly expanding into suburbia with new housing estates "The Minns Labor government is excited to announce the site for the new local primary school and co-located public preschool for Albury's growing Thurgoona area," Ms Car said "This school will offer state-of-the-art classrooms and facilities designed to support students in their crucial early years of learning serving a community undergoing significant growth and change." The announcement by Ms Car follows Albury Liberal MP Justin Clancy raising concerns in parliament about a lack of detail from the government about the project He called "on the government to update the community and demonstrate action on this important community need" Ms Car in specifying the new site attacked the previous Coalition government which made the commitment to the school in 2022 before Labor was elected in 2023 having failed to deliver a new school for the growing Thurgoona community during its 12 years in office," Ms Car said "After years of inaction by the Liberal National government the Minns Labor government is delivering this project that Albury families deserve." The revelation of the location was accompanied by news there will be a drop-in information session about the project at the Thurgoona Public School hall on Tuesday It is expected to feature a map of the planned location with Education Department on hand to answer questions and take on feedback The continued growth of estates in Thurgoona is behind plans for a new primary school which now has publicly identified site File picture.The department will also work with Albury Council and the Department of Planning Housing and Infrastructure as the project unfolds The existing school in Bottlebrush Street is about four kilometres from Kerr Road at Wirlinga By comparison the distance between Albury Public School and Albury North Public School is about three kilometres Image supplied.On-ground work to form the Thurgoona Link Road could begin later this year Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueKevin Mack was commenting after the council approved a plan during a confidential session at its meeting on Monday to buy land along the road route which is not yet owned by the city The two properties involved are north of Elizabeth Mitchell Drive and north of Kerr Road and are required to form the link which will see those routes connected and a further throughway north to join the Hume Highway at the Davey Road interchange "We're trying to fast track that development so there's a lot of things we need to do and acquiring those sections of the corridor are pivotal in the process," Cr Mack said "They do go through privately-owned land so there's a process we have to go through." Cr Mack anticipated the purchases of the land would be completed by June He hopes work will begin on extending Elizabeth Mitchell Drive before the end of the year with an aim for the whole project to be complete by September 2028 getting all the approvals and trying to get this job done in Elizabeth Mitchell within the next 15 to 18 months and Kerr Road within a total pitch of three years," Cr Mack said "There's a lot of issues with Kerr Road because of environmental concerns but hopefully we'll be able to reconcile that and get them sorted because we've got a timeline on this stuff and as a community and as a council we've indicated that by the end of our term of council [it will be completed]." Cr Mack's upbeat outlook follows the NSW government having withdrawn $1.2 million in 2024 due to the council failing to spend the money within a set timeframe "The funding deed expired which we felt...was not the case however they were very fixed on that idea," he said "We will still be looking for that funding "Once we acquire the corridor and finalise the planning we can demonstrate to the federal and state governments that we're on track and we can actually deliver and that's really where the money becomes a major component and we're in the midst of doing that." In 2023 at the time the previous NSW government announced $10.2 million to assist with water and wastewater infrastructure along the route Albury MP Justin Clancy said the project was vital in developing land in the north of Thurgoona "This is unlocking the land that will allow young families to be able to build homes The access to the freeway via Davey Road is also expected to ease pressure on the Thurgoona Drive interchange with the Hume Highway Picture by James WiltshireThe Hume Highway overpass at Thurgoona Drive will be closed for resurfacing work on Monday and Tuesday nights Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueTransport for NSW said the overpass would be closed to traffic between 8pm and 5am on November 11 and 12 It is expected shift workers at nearby industrial estates off Wagga Road and Thurgoona residents will be affected by the closure "Motorists are advised of changed traffic conditions from next week on Thurgoona Drive at Albury for essential maintenance work," the department said "Road resurfacing work will be carried out on the Thurgoona Drive overpass bridge over the Hume Highway to make the road smoother and safer the overpass bridge will be closed during work." Transport for NSW said to reduce impacts on the community with the project wrapping up by 5am on Wednesday Motorists have been advised to allow 10 minutes of extra travel time on Monday and Tuesday nights. Picture suppliedLast month, traffic congestion at Thurgoona emerged as a major issue Albury's new leaders plan to tackle during their term. A year earlier requests for dual lanes on Thurgoona Drive had been a message from drivers affected by traffic congestion in the growing residential area Nearly a third of comments provided to Transport for NSW's community consultation called for more lanes from the Hume Highway interchange to Elizabeth Mitchell Drive During the period of the overpass resurfacing this week "Motorists are advised to drive to the conditions allow up to 10 minutes extra travel time and follow the directions of signs and traffic control," the department said Picture suppliedThe NSW government has withdrawn $1.2 million in funding earmarked for the Thurgoona Link Road project saying Albury Council failed to spend the money on time Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueThe project designed to connect key road arteries including Kerr Road and the Davey Road/Hume Highway Interchange is seen as a cornerstone of the council's future growth strategy It aims to provide "critical infrastructure" to build homes for 50,000 new residents in the Thurgoona Wirlinga growth precinct by 2060 The $1.2 million, saved from the council's Davey Road overpass project had been repurposed for stage two of the Thurgoona Link Road project Albury Council was required to use the funds by June 2024 but sought an extension after delays caused by the need to reassess environmental surveys after consecutive years of wet weather The NSW government has denied the extension request Albury MP Justin Clancy says the decision to withdraw the funding would compromise Albury's future housing growth File imageAlbury MP Justin Clancy said the decision undermines efforts to address the housing crisis "It's a kick in the teeth not just for Thurgoona residents but anyone aspiring to home ownership," he said "We can't build new housing without this vital road infrastructure link connecting the Hume Highway's Davey Road exit to Ettamogah Road "This disruption threatens to undermine the larger goal of providing much-needed affordable housing for young families and supporting population growth in the Albury region Infrastructure NSW chairman, Graham Bradley. File imageThe money was part of a $10.2 million Restart NSW grant announced in February 2023 to unlock housing in Thurgoona Wirlinga NSW Infrastructure said the original scope of the funding deed has been delivered and the project would now be closed "Follow up letters from Albury Council provided further context that pre-construction activities including environmental process and design is for the larger project which also includes stages three which is outside the scope of the Restart approval," a spokesperson said "Albury City Council remains welcome to discuss potential funding opportunities with the NSW government and is welcome to make a fresh submission to use the Restart NSW Fund." Albury mayor Kevin Mack says the funding was a major component of the Thurgoona Link Road project Picture by James WiltshireAlbury mayor Kevin Mack was unaware that the funding had been officially pulled when contacted by The Border Mail He said the grant was a "major component" of the project "The roads that we put into our housing and residential areas have to be funded some way "$1.2 million buys a lot of road in that context We have budgeted for that link road with that included." Layton is a journalist at The Border Mail. He is interested in profiles, features, and hard news. If you have a story please reach out to him at layton.holley@austcommunitymedia.com.au Picture by James WiltshireAs Olympic fever sweeps the Border Simon and Leanne Hodgson have a message for Thurgoona residents Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinue"Let the gains begin!" Mr and Mrs Hodgson have opened their 24/7 Plus Fitness on Diamond Drive after moving from their home of 11 years at Thurgoona Plaza Mr Hodgson said work on the design began in February 2022 with construction taking just 28 weeks after starting in January this year was decked out with Hammer Strength and Life Fitness equipment with a 12-station multi-jungle gym among the highlights "Lifting weights is one of the best ways to live longer It's for everyone at any level," Mr Hodgson said adding that the gym had members ranging from the age of 14 through to their 80s The 760-square metre gym on a 12,000-square metre lot opposite the BP Service Station offers more space and an increased selection of equipment from their previous site on Shuter Avenue "After 11 years at Thurgoona Plaza we have outgrown the facility and it was time to move into something bigger and self-built to reward our very loyal customers," Mr Hodgson said "We are definitely very proud of what's been accomplished "We have a very loyal and strong membership base and I think most of them have been gobsmacked and very excited by what's been provided to them here." car wash and laundromat are among the developments planned for the area in coming years "There have been development consents issued for a range of businesses along Diamond Drive between October 2019 and January 2024," Matt Wilson developers proceed with projects at their own pace following development consent "It is important to note that development consents generally have a five-year timeframe from the date of issue to begin the proposed development "If work does not commence within this period Plus Fitness' former home on the top level of Thurgoona Plaza. File pictureMeanwhile, a Woolworths spokesperson told The Border Mail it was hoped the supermarket's direct to boot collection area will be ready before the end of this year at Plus Fitness' former home on the top level of Thurgoona Plaza "We have received planning approval for .. a four-bay drive-through option for local customers," the spokesperson said "We anticipate we'll begin fitting out the new [area] in the coming months." 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. Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueThe $10,000 event is one of the biggest on the Associate schedule "Lochie is second year out of school, but it's his first year as a trainee, he's played only one event so far and is playing really good golf off a plus three (handicap)," Thurgoona's Luke Porritt said former Wodonga young gun Daniel Gill (Peninsula Kingswood Country Golf Club) will also contest the 36-hole event "Last year at the presentation at the end of the year he won just about everything he won the Vic State Championships and only missed qualifying for this week's Vic Open in a playoff," Porritt said Drummond Golf Albury's Nick Brennan will also contest the Monday-Tuesday event Some of the biggest names in Australian golf over the past 30 years will be on show when the 54-hole $150,000 NSW Senior Open returns to Albury this November one of the biggest events on the PGA Legends Tour will be played from November 1-3 at Thurgoona Golf & Country Club Resort It is proudly supported by the NSW Government’s tourism and major events agency Golf NSW Chief Operating Officer Graeme Phillipson said the event was an extremely popular addition to the Albury/Border sporting calendar “Golf NSW is delighted to continue bringing one of our best tournaments back to Thurgoona Country Club,” he said “The sporting public of Albury has supported this event from the outset and it is a pleasure to return to a city where everyone involved in the tournament and the popularity of tournaments like the NSW Senior Open helps us promote the game as the ideal recreational activity for both young and old.” The 2024 Championship is set to feature many of the greats of Australasian golf from the past 25 -30 years Other notables and past champions expected to play include Peter O’Malley (NSW) PGA Legends Tour coordinator Andy Rogers said the players relished the opportunity to return to Albury and the Thurgoona Golf and Country Club Resort “We’re absolutely rapt to be coming back to Thurgoona,” said Rogers “We have seen through the quality of the field at Thurgoona in recent years just how much the players enjoy the golf course and visiting Albury “It’s a fantastic course and a perfect fit for a tournament that’s a really important part of our schedule.” General Manager of Thurgoona Country Club Resort said the fan experience at this year’s tournament will allow unparalleled access “There won’t be a better opportunity for sports fans in the Albury – Region to get up close and personal to witness the legends in action “It’s clear the players really enjoy the atmosphere and the connections with the fans in the gallery and we are looking forward to another fantastic three days of action.” The New South Wales Senior Open is proudly supported by the NSW Government’s tourism and major events agency Mr Tidey went into cardiac arrest at his Thurgoona home on October 14 and has made an amazing recovery Daniel Tidey was on the floor of his Thurgoona bedroom as his wife desperately performed CPR in a bid to bring him back to life Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueOn Friday Mr Tidey and his wife and children walked into the Albury ambulance station to thank the paramedics who have given him a second chance at life The 59-year-old died while getting out of bed on October 14 "I dropped dead on the bedroom floor while going to get a glass of water," he said Daniel Tidey with paramedics Tori Bennett and Larissa Schausinger Picture by Mark Jesser"My wife jumped out of bed and started compressions while on the phone to 000 "Two paramedics arrived in three minutes." initially by Abbey Brennan and Ashley Bear and said he again died in Albury hospital before being flown to Melbourne He was in an induced coma and spent two weeks in intensive care before later walking out of hospital with minimal side effects Medical staff say such a recovery is incredibly rare and Dymphna Tidey's early CPR on her husband is one of the key reasons he's still alive it's actually a miracle," she said on December 13 "It was that first initial couple of minutes that made the difference "For Daniel not to be brain damaged is quite incredible Dymphna Tidey began performing CPR on her husband with instructions from a 000 call taker before paramedics took over Picture by Mark Jesser"Every doctor from St Vincent's has shaken our hands and just said they can't believe he's doing so well." hugged Albury paramedics during Friday's reunion Mrs Tidey recently bumped into paramedics Larissa Schausinger and Patrick Hurd in a cafe and started crying and hugging them Ms Schausinger had been with her at Albury hospital while medical crews worked on her husband and told her she had done everything possible to save her husband NSW Ambulance district manager Eamonn Purcell said there was virtually no chance of survival if those at the scene of heart attacks didn't perform CPR before paramedics arrived Picture by Mark Jesser"It doesn't matter how much expertise or equipment or training we bring if someone hasn't done CPR before we get there the chances are almost none that someone's going to come back," he said Mr Purcell said first aid training for the general public was "nowhere near the level we need" and urged people to learn CPR Mrs Tidey undertook a course at TAFE 25 years ago She received instructions from the 000 call taker while she worked on her husband "I'm glad my wife knew a little bit of it," Mr Tidey said "It's those first few minutes that you need to do something "If you don't have people who know those skills "She just jumped in and got straight into it." The incident has changed Mr Tidey's outlook on life and made him appreciate the small things like walking his dog while the sun's rising He said his survival means he can celebrate another Christmas it just changes your perspective," he said Mr Purcell said first aid training could make a good Christmas present and said courses could be found by searching online Kenzi and Lenny after losing his brave 14-month battle with cancer last week File pictureThurgoona Football-Netball club and the wider community are mourning the sad passing of highly-popular Bulldog Craig Taylor Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueThe father of two young children who was affectionately known as 'Taylz' lost his brave 14-month battle with cancer last Friday Taylor is being fondly remembered as a beloved member of the kennel who was best known for his dedication His lasting legacy will be his generous spirit and unconditional support that touched the lives of so many that knew him Taylor played more than 200 senior matches at the kennel with the undoubted highlight of his career being a part of the Bulldogs' inaugural senior premiership in 2016 and again the back-to-back flag triumph the following season Former Bulldogs coach Dan Cleary had become close mates with Taylor in recent years who has been close mates with Taylor for the best part of a decade said 'Taylz' had an infectious personality that endeared him to most people he met "Taylz was highly-popular wherever he went," Cleary said "Although he played most of his football at Thurgoona where he was a popular figure he decided to follow me out to Brock-Burrum in 2019 when I was appointed coach of the reserves "Taylz was also well-liked at the Saints and ended up playing in the losing senior grand final mainly because of his generosity and his ability to fit in with the club culture "I first met 'Taylz' about 15-years-ago when he was working at the Kinross Woolshed "When I first joined Thurgoona in the late 2000's I was coaching the under-17s and 'Taylz' was coach of the under-14s and that was the beginning of our friendship "But we had become a lot closer the last six or seven years Taylor's most recent occupation was with PPC a pest control company formerly owned by Bulldogs premiership teammate Jamarl O'Sullivan Picture suppliedTaylor had several occupations after leaving the Kinross including spending time at Flair Cabinets and working for Brendan Roberson who owns and runs an animal pregnancy scanning business He also worked for Masters Kitchens and Joinery and most recently for PPC a pest control company formerly owned by Bulldogs premiership teammate Jamarl O'Sullivan Cleary said 'Taylz' won the admiration of his teammates on the field for his no frills approach and team first attitude "The best way to describe 'Taylz' as a footballer was that he was your typical back pocket "You just knew what you were going to get out of him he was reliable and dependable and would do anything to help the team he would have a crack to the best of his ability "Whether that was tagging an opposition player in the midfield or playing on a bigger opponent down back he would always be up for a challenge and wouldn't cause a fuss Taylor played in the Bulldogs' inaugural flag triumph in 2016 Picture supplied"Being part of that 2016 flag was certainly the highlight for 'Taylz' "He put a lot of hard work in before that when the club was losing finals and flags that they probably should have performed better in "So to be part of that 2016 flag was a super special moment for him." While Taylor will always be remembered as a premiership player at the kennel he was also highly regarded for his passion for the club and his contribution off the field He was always happy to offer his assistance helping take junior training or flipping a burger on the barbecue.. Testament to Taylor's popularity and standing at Thurgoona and the wider community was how well people rallied around a major fundraiser for the Taylor family earlier this year were instrumental in organising the fundraiser held at the Thurgoona Golf Club in March with Peter Daicos as the special guest Taylor also played in the Bulldogs' 2017 flag Picture supplied"The support of everyone who attended the fundraiser was phenomenal," Cleary said "It started with a random idea over breakfast one morning between Dad and I "Dad (Craig) than rang well-known comedian Tom Seigert who didn't hesitate to jump on board "Tom rang back within an hour and said 'I'm in and I've got Peter Daicos as a guest speaker.' "It was as simple as that to get the ball rolling and then we had six weeks to put everything together "Everybody rallied behind the idea and we ended up raising more than $50,000 "It was massive and we had donations coming in from everywhere and the golf day was sold out within five days of being advertised plus had a waiting list "The function at the golf club with Daicos was also sold out and Thurgoona Golf Club was amazing with all their help "It just highlighted how highly 'Taylz' was thought of at the footy club and in the community "Something like that should be difficult to organise but it was really seamless because of 'Taylz' and what he had done for so many people previously with his selfless attitude." Taylor with his wife Katie and two two young children Kenzi and Lenny.Taylor was also a devoted father of two young children "I would say Craig's two children was the highlight of his life," Cleary said "He was a fantastic father and also a loving husband to his wife "That has been the hardest part to watch as Craig's health detoriated over the past 12-months not being able to spend as much time with his wife and kids as he wanted to." A memorial service for Taylor will be held on Thursday December 12 in the Waratah Room at the Commercial Club File picture by James WiltshireHomes in a new Thurgoona housing development may become more accessible for frontline workers All articles from our website & appThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxInteractive Crosswords, Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueThe 300-lot Hilltops by Birchmore subdivision launched on the Riverina Highway and the intersection with Kerr Road in July 2024 will provide incentives for healthcare workers teachers and other government-recognised essential professionals to move to the Border region and own a home Healthcare is believed to be Albury's largest employer Birchmore Group's Hilltops key workers program was the first of its kind for the developer and would provide eligible applicants with a $10,000 rebate on home purchases People working in those professions may also have fewer upfront costs with a 5 per cent minimum deposit required for homes compared to standard rates of 10 or 20 per cent Birchmore said priority access to homes would also be granted to frontline workers in the Hilltops development which was located less than 10 minutes from Albury hospital Managing director Andrew Peters said key workers were essential to building and supporting local communities on the Border and North East "Key workers are the backbone of our community The program is our way of giving back to those who give so much every day," he said "While we haven't run similar programs in the past this initiative aligns with our long-standing commitment to creating accessible housing solutions and supporting local communities "We've been closely observing successful government initiatives such as the NSW government's regional housing package which have inspired us to take action at a local level "This program represents a new direction for Birchmore Group in addressing the specific housing needs of essential workers in our developments." An artist's impression of the 300-lot Hilltops by Birchmore subdivision to be built in Thurgoona Picture suppliedMr Peters said several factors were considered when a decision was made to implement the program we recognised the growing need for affordable housing options for key workers in Albury-Wodonga especially given the expansion of healthcare facilities like the new [Albury hospital] emergency department," he said Thurgoona's rapid growth - projected to house 50,000 residents by 2050 - highlighted the importance of supporting key workers who will be crucial to this expanding community such as the NSW government's $780 million investment in housing for health workers inspired us to take action at a local level "We see multiple benefits from this program it helps key workers overcome the hurdle of home ownership in a competitive market "It also supports Albury-Wodonga's growth by attracting and retaining key professionals Birchmore Group managing director Andrew Peters said there had been a positive response to the key workers program announced for its Hilltops development in Thurgoona File picture by Mark Jesser"For the broader community having essential workers living locally enhances service delivery and emergency response times." Mr Peters said more than 70 per cent of the first two stages of the development had already sold and the initial response to the essential worker offer was positive we've seen a significant uptick in inquiries from eligible key workers," he said "Local employers have expressed support for the initiative seeing it as a valuable tool for staff retention This enthusiasm reinforces our belief that the program addresses a real need in our community." Interest can be registered on the Hilltops by Birchmore website Birchmore will also develop Wodonga's Junction Place with a plan unveiled in November 2024 to build 200 homes All articles from our website & appThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxInteractive Crosswords, Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueTyrone Greystone had been on the run for months before the incident on Table Top Road His silver Ford Falcon XR6 was being chased by police after he was spotted passed out in the vehicle on Williams Road at Table Top. Tyrone Greystone crashed into a Hyundai containing a mother and her daughter on Table Top Road in Thurgoona before hitting a tree and running into a drain ammunition and a horror mask were found at the crash site File picture A person approached and noted Greystone appeared to be "very groggy" and saw a leather gun belt with a large number of red shotgun shells Police arrived at 7.08am and Greystone sped off in heavy fog File picture He knew he was wanted and hit speeds of up to 150kmh His car hit a concrete median strip near the Brooklyn Fields estate on Table Top Road spun into a Hyundai Tucson containing a mum and her four-year-old daughter File picture The Ford's speedometer was locked at 100kmh when it hit the trees and rolled several times before landing on its roof File picture The driver in the other car had severe bruising The loaded sawn-off shotgun and two live rounds were found near the passenger door of Greystone's Ford and the gun belt was recovered 10 metres from the crashed vehicle along with the horror mask from the movie Halloween File picture Greystone fronted Albury Local Court on Wednesday for sentencing over the offending and other crimes He faced multiple charges of disqualified driving causing bodily harm by misconduct in charge of a motor vehicle dishonestly obtaining property by deception and was banned from driving for three years Picture by James WiltshireThurgoona unveiled its new goal shooter in the side's 60-20 victory against Rutherglen on Saturday Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueGemma Baird shot 41 goals on debut for the Bulldogs after arriving at the club from the Riddell District Football Netball League Thurgoona co-coach Jess Wheatly admitted Baird was a "great surprise" at trials with renowned goaler Mardi Haydon stepping back this season Rutherglen's Ally Halton passes the ball for the Cats against the Bulldogs Picture by James Wiltshire"In the third and fourth quarters we were feeding really well into her (Baird) and she started to build a bit of momentum with her shots," Wheatley said while fellow newcomer Jess Black also added another eight to the home side's tally After missing a few players in their opening-round victory against Beechworth it was the first time the Bulldogs had their new full line-up together "It was really nice to have all 10 girls there today," Wheatley said "We're looking forward to building over the next few weeks." The Cats showed strength in defence under new coach Rachel Crawford. Rutherglen's Tahni Evans and Thurgoona's Jennifer Vine Picture by James WiltshireJess Ryan landed 11 goals while teammate Tahni Evans assisted with nine goals In other Tallangatta and District A-grade matches Chiltern proved too strong for Beechworth 55-24 Dederang Mt Beauty secured its second victory with a 46-22 win against Wahgunyah Tallangatta defeated Barnwartha 61-35 and Mitta United outran Wodonga Saints 54-43 A gun and ammunition were found at the scene A man armed with a gun has crashed a car at high speed into a vehicle containing a mother and her daughter before being found hiding in a Thurgoona drain Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinuePolice were called to Williams Road in Thurgoona about 7am on Wednesday amid reports the man was armed with a shotgun in a parked grey Ford utility The silver Ford utility came to a rest upside down off Table Top Road at Thurgoona after sliding about 70 metres When officers attended and approached the car the man fled at high speed on Table Top Road The Ford hit a dark Hyundai containing a mother and her daughter at the Brooklyn Drive roundabout The fleeing driver's car skidded for about 70 metres before partially rolling and hitting multiple trees The 25-year-old man was able to free himself from the vehicle despite it being struck upside down Victorian officers were called to the scene and the 25-year-old was found hiding in a drain near Brooklyn Drive about an hour after the crash Police said a firearm and ammunition were found at the scene who has previously been sought by police over pursuits at high speed before crashing into a culvert Picture by Blair ThomsonHe suffered multiple injuries including a suspected broken arm and broken ribs His injuries are not considered life threatening The damaged Hyundai Tucson in which a mother and her daughter were travelling Picture by Blair Thomson"The man remains in hospital under police guard," a police spokeswoman said on July 17 The mother and daughter were also transported to Albury hospital with minor head injuries and soreness The armed man's car appeared to have only struck the front of the Hyundai Family members were hopeful the pair would be discharged on Wednesday afternoon Police closed Table Top Road to traffic after the incident Picture by Blair ThomsonOfficers from the Crash Investigation Unit are investigating the circumstances of the crash The resprayed silver vehicle appeared to have previously been yellow The Hyundai will also likely be written off due to its damage with multiple airbags deployed during the collision Witnesses to the incident can call (02) 6023 9299 or 1800 333 000 Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueThe girl had been assessed by paramedics on September 15 but they did not transport her to hospital despite her having a highly elevated heart rate The primary school student died just over 24 hours later Coroner Sally McLaughlin investigated the circumstances of the death and on Friday recommending NSW Ambulance develops a feature to alert paramedics when a patient's vital signs are outside normal limits The young girl had returned home from school on September 13 and told her mother she hadn't eaten lunch because she felt sick The Thurgoona girl later complained of feeling cold and vomited She visited Dr Sumit Kamra on September 14 Paramedics attended her home on September 15 when the girl complained of being short of breath Her vital signs were largely normal but her heart was fast and considered to be outside of the normal range Paramedics decided not to take the seven-year-old to hospital They were again called about 3.10am on September 16 and the girl went into cardiac arrest while she was being assessed CPR was performed and she was rushed to Albury hospital The girl was pronounced deceased at 4.19am anguish and heartbreak felt by her family and said she hoped lessons could be learnt from what occurred An inquest examined whether the paramedics' assessment of the young girl the day before her death was appropriate systems and training sufficiently alerted paramedics to the need to hospitalise patients who had streptococcus pneumonia with sepsis had a severely elevated heart rate on September 15 and a professor said she should have been transported to hospital The decision not to transport her was found to be in breach of ambulance protocols and was considered a "missed opportunity" The inquest heard the paramedics were fatigued with changes later made to rostering and fatigue management by the service Ms McLaughlin found at the time of the girl's death training given to paramedics was not sufficient regarding when patients should be hospitalised She urged NSW Ambulance to develop a system that gives paramedics a visual prompt or alert when a patient's vital signs are outside normal limits requiring hospitalisation Ms McLaughlin conveyed her sympathies to the late girl's family A NSW Ambulance spokesperson said the service extended "sincere condolences to the family and friends of the young girl from Thurgoona who sadly passed away in September 2019" NSW Ambulance has made improvements to provide clinicians with enhanced access to clinical resources at the point of care and ongoing mandatory training provided to paramedics has been updated to include recognition of patient deterioration," the spokesperson said "NSW Ambulance will carefully consider the coroner's findings and any recommendations." File picturesThurgoona has landed the prized signature of midfielder Cody Howard in potentially the biggest recruiting coup of the Tallangatta and district league off-season Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueHoward arrives at the kennel after a two-year stint with Perth in the WAFL where he played both seniors and reserves He has also previously played locally for Corowa-Rutherglen The Border Mail believes the Bulldogs trumped both Corowa-Rutherglen and CDHBU for the signature of Howard where he is highly regarded by both his former clubs The Bulldogs were always the frontrunners to secure the services of Howard who was keen to play alongside his older brother Mat Thurgoona coach Daniel McAlister guided the Bulldogs to fifth spot in his first season at the helm Picture by James WiltshireBulldogs coach Daniel McAlister was understandably ecstatic to land a player the calibre of Howard who at 24 has all the credentials to be a match-winner at the lower standard of the TDFL "It's a huge coup to sign Cody," McAlister said "We were very fortunate to have the connection of his brother Mat playing at the club since 2021 "That was certainly the conduit that allowed us to negotiate a deal with Cody "We feel we have essentially recruited a player from WA who will be a top-liner in the TDFL "Cody is a local boy who has previously played at Coreen and Corowa and made a commitment more to his brother than us that he will play at least one year with him "Thankfully Mat is a Bulldog and now Cody is as well "Obviously Corowa and Coreen were extremely keen to sign Cody when word spread that he could be moving back home from WA "That information spread like wildfire so then suddenly you have other clubs chasing the services of Cody which you can't blame them for "So it is a huge relief to get a deal done." Howard is set to inject some much-needed class into the Bulldogs midfield and help ease the pressure on best and fairest winner Tyson Neander who is heavily tagged by opposition clubs most weeks Cody Mannagh and Zac Gibbons returning from injury McAlister will have a lot more midfield depth at his disposal this season File pictureMcAlister said it was the consistency of the league heavyweights in Yackandandah Chiltern and Kiewa that set them apart from the rest of the competition "I felt last year those top sides had more consistency throughout their ranks," he said "But when you are able to bring in a player the calibre and the resume Cody boasts.. "Cody is also a ripping bloke to talk to and no doubt will be a popular figure amongst the playing group "We are certainly fortunate to have his service and is a huge boost to our finals credentials "Not only do you have to worry about last year's finalists but I'm also wary of what the sides that finished sixth and below have been able to achieve over the off-season as well "They are certainly leaving no stone unturned recruiting-wise and have been able to appoint some quality coaches and Beau Packer (Mitta) are all new faces in the coaching ranks but boast plenty of coaching experience and are well-respected so that's something that I'm fully aware of." Gibbons returns after suffering a season-ending injury against Yackandandah in round 3 Bailey McAlister is also back training strongly after missing the second-half of the season with concussion issues Mitta United and Chiltern in the opening four rounds of the season All articles from our website & appThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxInteractive Crosswords, Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueA spokesperson for the supermarket giant told The Border Mail that construction on the Diamond Drive supermarket is "due to get under way soon". Real Estate company Knight Frank is advertising online that the Thurgoona Village development is set to open in June 2025. Tenants are being sought for the development, which will be anchored by Coles and also features a Liquorland store. "We are seeking quality retailers to join Thurgoona Village and cater to the needs of the surrounding population," Knight Frank says on its website. "Leasing opportunities will be available for specialty tenancies ranging from 121 to 203 square metres as a cold shell. Incentives are negotiable." The complex will have 173 car parks, including 76 undercover spaces. "We're excited be able to deliver a new supermarket for the Thurgoona community, with construction due to get under way soon," a Coles spokesperson said. "The development, which will include a new Coles and Liquorland along with a mix of other tenants to the community, is expected to be completed next year. "The project will create hundreds of local retail and construction jobs and we'll be sure to keep the community informed as this development progresses." Simon and Leanne Hodgson have opened their 24/7 Plus Fitness on Diamond Drive after moving from their home of 11 years at Thurgoona Plaza. Picture by James WiltshireNews of Coles' plans comes on the back of Plus Fitness opening on Diamond Drive earlier this month Along with a BP service station, Eden Academy childcare centre, Monumental Ice Creamery and The Balanced Brew coffee shop are already operating in the area car wash and laundromat are among the developments planned for the site opposite Thurgoona Country Club in coming years Springdale Heights IGA supermarket owner Bob Mathews told The Border Mail earlier this year he believed Coles' project was "a great thing for Thurgoona because the other supermarket is under a great deal of pressure" "You can't get a car park at Woolworths," he said in January Mat Goggin flexed his muscles late today to set up a classic New South Wales Senior Open finale on Sunday There were a host of big-name moves in a scintillating second round with Tasmanian Goggin’s seven-under-par 65 getting the Thurgoona Country Club Resort crowd buzzing It’s the proverbial “promoter’s dream” after Goggin’s closing birdie earned him a share of the lead alongside Victorian Euan Walters who fired his own great 67 hours earlier to reach 9-under endured a mixed bag in his second-round 71 Peter Lonard and red-hot Queenslander Chris Taylor Also within striking distance at 6-under and 5-under respectively are Terry Pilkadaris and the legendary Peter Senior all but ensuring an action-packed third and final round hit some towering drives to take advantage of Thurgoona’s par-5s but possibly could have gone even lower had his putter been remotely warm “I drove it really well and did what I needed to getting it up and down when things went a bit astray with the mid-irons,” Goggin said It’s always tough to win any professional golf tournament and I’ve given myself a chance.” Walters looked set to blow the field away early when he leapt from the blocks with four birdies in the opening seven holes to assume the lead before cooling on the back nine but I still love the fight and just lately it’s started to feel better so hopefully I can keep it going tomorrow,” Walters said Barr struggled for momentum after his opening 65 and feared the worst when he hooked his drive on the 18th (his ninth) out of bounds The resultant double-bogey sent him tumbling off the leaderboard but the West Australian journeyman showed great resolve after another bogey on the tough third chipping in for eagle on the long fourth hole to spark a late rally that yielded two more birdies “I think you’ve got to look at the big picture I’m still right in the hunt and hopefully things work out I get off to a good start and roll in a couple of putts tomorrow,” Barr said so you’re going to have to play your best golf to get away with one tomorrow.” All of the big names hot on their heels had moments of magic with Pilkadaris having a rollercoaster back nine alongside Goggin and Lonard almost holed out for eagle on 13 and then chipped in for eagle on 14 to race to 8-under He then stumbled with three straight bogeys from 15 before a long range birdie on the last steadied the ship McKenzie and Lonard looked ominous at times while Senior didn’t have a lot of luck around the greens and Queenslander Taylor already the winner of 12 PGA Legends Tour events this year is enjoying the best form of his career and continues to lead the putting stats regularly it’s tough to pick a winner on what is sure to be a fascinating Sunday afternoon of golf Picture by Blair Thomson Police attended a two-car crash at Thurgoona on Wednesday morning where one vehicle rolled onto its roof Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueEmergency services were called to Table Top Road and Brooklyn Drive just north of the Kinross Woolshed on July 17 Table Top Road is expected to be closed for some time with northbound traffic diverted from Thurgoona Drive The incident came as fog lingered over the Border region on Wednesday morning is the best option to fulfil the needs of current and future residents of Thurgoona/Wirlinga and residents from other parts of Albury As part of Albury's ageing population, who needs physical exercise year-round, the development of the proposed aquatic centre is a necessity for residents like myself The notion that the pool's facilities are only used by elite swimmers is not accurate rather a large proportion of patrons are older residents looking to stay active Sadly this isn't feasible during the winter months with an outdoor pool which forces many of us to stay home and forgo the exercise we enjoy during the warmer months The development of an aquatic centre in Albury would make these issues a thing of the past and provide all residents a place to swim year-round MORE COMMENT This summer we reflect on a milestone in our state's fight against skin cancer. January marks a decade since Victoria banned commercial solariums - a landmark decision that has undoubtedly saved countless lives solariums were linked to an estimated 2800 skin cancer cases across Australia every year recent events remind us there's still more to do TikTok is flooded with worrying videos glorifying tan lines and even encouraging Australians to use the UV index as a tanning tool rather than a warning There's been controversy recently about access to shade at the beach with the space cabanas occupy sparking national debate presented to emergency departments in public hospitals last year with sunburn Meanwhile skin cancer remains Victoria's fifth most common cancer with more than 3000 Victorians diagnosed with melanoma in 2023 the few remaining illegal backyard solariums or even misleadingly rebranded solariums marketed as "collarium" or "collagen beds" - is the biggest risk factor Skin cancer is almost entirely preventable and it's never too late to start protecting your skin Enjoying the outdoors is a cherished part of Victorians' lives but it shouldn't have to come at the cost of your health Our message to all Victorians is to make SunSmart practices part of your daily routine this year to protect yourselves and for the sake of the people you love Heart Research Australia is urging all Australians to come together and take action to safeguard both their heart and brain health we are shedding light on the crucial link between cardiovascular health and cognitive function and sharing effective day-to-day strategies to support both What supports the heart also benefits the brain Heart disease remains the leading cause of death in Australia and its effects reach far beyond our hearts Conditions such as high blood pressure and high cholesterol can not only cause damage to the heart but can also increase the risk of cognitive decline the number of Australians living with dementia is expected to double protecting our heart and brain health now is more vital than ever but to reduce the pressure on our health system as it braces for an ageing population the impact of heart disease and dementia are deeply felt Heart Research Australia's 4-M Approach - Meals and Mental Wellness - guides us to take small which can protect both our hearts and our minds we are committed to reducing the devastating impact heart disease has on families and the community we are asking Australians to come together to wear red and contribute to the vital research that will change lives we can reduce the devastating effects of heart disease tomorrow To learn more about Heart Research Australia's 4-M approach and support Heart Research Australia's critical research, please visit heartresearch.com.au