It’s a Haines hatrick
Supporters of Independent Member for Indi, Helen Haines, celebrate with her after her record third victory in Saturday’s federal election. Dr Haines’ predecessor, Cathy McGowan, took the seat from the LNP Coalition in 2013 and held it for two terms before handing the reins to Dr Haines for the 2019 election.
Drought support needed
The Victorian Farmers Federation (VFF) is calling on the Victorian government to urgently ramp up drought support measures as farmers across the state face worsening conditions and the real threat of business failure … the VFF says the government must seize the opportunity to deliver immediate relief to drought-affected regions and invest in long-term preparedness and resilience.
Brothers-in-arms come home
It is 30 years since they last hung in the Upper Murray but now portraits of two brothers have found a new home at the Corryong RSL Hall. William Malcolm Chisholm and Colin John Chisholm both served in WWI and were wounded in action.
Local talent steps up
Some of the toughest riders in the country took on the 'Kosi Killer' leg of the Australian Hard Enduro Championships at Towong Upper on the weekend. With 224 competitors battling through punishing terrain and brutal conditions, it was an unforgettable event that showcased the grit and talent of Australia's best.
Rare extension made to restrictions
The Fire Danger Period (FDP) will be extended in parts of Victoria including Towong Shire for the first time since 2019, as unseasonably dry conditions continue to elevate fire risk. A lack of rainfall has left vegetation in the state's South West and parts of the North East susceptible to fire ignition, with some areas as dry as they were during the devastating 1982/83 fire season.
Editorial: Record breaking festival marks 30 years
Now that the dust has settled on the 2025 Man From Snowy River Bush Festival, the board and more than 300 volunteers that made it successful can take a well deserved bow ... As the festival got into full swing, staff from at least four government agencies including the Department of Health and Worksafe descended on the event in search of infractions that impeded organisers and volunteers while trying to deal with record attendances.
Candidate fails to do his homework on preferences
The Liberal Party has been forced to reprint the how-to-vote cards of Indi candidate James Trenery after reports surfaced of an 'unconscionable' land transfer undertaken by independent candidate, Mark McFarlane. Mr Trenery's first how-to-vote card has been distributed on a flyer across the electorate, preferencing Mr McFarlane at number five, ahead of the incumbent Dr Helen Haines.
Trail ride turned into more than a journey
Honor Auchinleck. The days, weeks and months have been very full since I received an email from Pat Leary - the inspiration behind the plan to ride the General Sir Harry Chauvel Memorial Foundation's Border Light Horse Trail. Pat wrote "I am looking into the idea of riding in light horse uniform and saddlery along the Australian Light Horse trail starting from Shepparton to Harden and then from Harden back to Tallangatta.

