Enriching educational experiences
AT La Trobe University's Shepparton Campus, Ebony Woolstencroft, a proud Bangerang woman and a second-year Bachelor of Nursing student embodies the spirit of determination and balance.
Ebony's path to nursing began in 2002 with a Cert 4 from GOTAFE's Nursing Indigenous Pathway. Life, however, took her away from nursing, only for her to return as a mother, eager to juggle her studies with raising two young children.
Facing challenges head-on, Ebony's dream of midwifery steered her towards alternative educational routes. With support from the Future Students Team at La Trobe, she found her footing in a nurturing environment tailored for mature-age students.
Her active participation as a RISE mentor and La Trobe Ambassador, coupled with her involvement in Indigenous Student Services, has been pivotal, leading to both personal growth and professional opportunities.
Ebony's journey has been marked by resilience, and has seen her overcome various challenges, she encourages students to keep pursuing all opportunities and utilise supports available.
Shepparton campus has provided an important sense of belonging, and this personal connection has
deepened Ebony’s educational experience, enriching it beyond just an academic focus.
Ebony's work and life experiences have been an asset to her studies, offering her unique perspectives and depth. The university's manageable schedule of classes
has facilitated a smooth balancing act between her studies, work, and family life.
Looking ahead, midwifery gleams in her future plans, with ambitions to explore Postgraduate Midwifery through the future employment.
40 years supporting local business
2024 MARKS 40 years of business for Goulburn Murray Group Training trading as The Apprenticeship Factory and Monarch Personnel. They began in 1984 as a local notfor-profit, community-based organisation supporting local people with employment and training opportunities.
This is a significant milestone for an organisation that provides a crucial link between young people wanting to obtain a trade qualification, and employers looking to hire an apprentice or trainee.
The Apprenticeship Factory has a dedicated team of local staff who realise the importance of creating opportunities for our young people so that our region can continue to grow. Recently Henry Barrow has joined our team and is looking forward to working with businesses and young school leavers who are looking to work in the trades sector. If you are interested in what services The Apprenticeship Factory has to offer, you can call them on (03) 58 224 555, or visit www. theapprenticeshipfactory.com.au.
Abundant opportunities for growth in healthcare
CATHERINE Argaet has been a friendly and familiar face within the Goulburn Valley Health team for 10 years. A dedicated registered nurse, Catherine has devoted the past decade to providing compassionate care and service to patients in the Goulburn Valley.
“I love my job as a registered nurse,” said Catherine. “I am a local, and I find benefits in supporting local community members throughout my role."
Starting as a graduate nurse at GV Health 10 years ago, Catherine has now advanced into a more senior role.
“I graduated from La Trobe University in Shepparton and chose to do my graduate year at GV Health.
“I worked everywhere. I did a nine-month placement in the medical ward and then worked in the surgical ward and now have now progressed into the roles I am in today,” she said.
GV Health interim talent acquisition manager Maddi Baker emphasised GV Health’s commitment to supporting staff with professional growth, career advancement, and educational opportunities.
“Our health service offers a diverse range of positions available, from entry-level to advanced practice positions,” she said.
With the hospital’s support, Catherine has now transitioned into the role of after-hours hospital supervisor and nursing resource officer.
“I love both roles, and they are different but go hand in
hand. During hospital hours and after hours, I help with the patient flow of the ward, and then in my role as the resource officer, I assist with staffing the wards,” she said.
Having commenced both roles 12 months ago, Catherine said she has loved every minute.
“It was a significant change from what I was doing previously. I was an associate nurse unit manager on the surgical ward and was looking for a change, and the
after-hours staff members put my name forward, and the rest is history,” she said.
Catherine credits the lifelong friendships and memories she has made as the reason she has stayed at GV Health for the past decade.
“Everyone at GV Health is so friendly; no matter what area you are in, you feel supported by each staff member you work with.”
Greenham
Greenham
CAREER PATHWAYS FOR ANY STAGE IN YOUR LIFE
Goulburn Valley Health is a regional health service and the largest employer in the region.
The health service works with purpose and pride, and is committed to respecting and embracing diversity, inclusion and accessibility for its people and community.
The talented team across GV Health consists of more than 3,000 people from all walks of life, working at five main sites across the Goulburn Valley region.
There are many opportunities for entry level or experienced professionals across a range of disciplines:
• Aged Care
• Allied Health
Community Programs
Corporate & Support Services
&
Dr Kadison Michel thrives as a Critical Care Unit Registrar in the bustling medical hub of GV Health.
Dr Michel completed the Doctor of Medicine program at The University of Melbourne and then completed his clinical years at The University of Melbourne Rural Clinical School in Shepparton.
Growing up in Shepparton, Dr Michel said it was important for him to return to the Goulburn Valley and work at GV Health.
A passionate advocate for hands-on critical care, he says GV Health is the ideal environment for continuous learning and
skill development.
“I enjoy the hands-on experience I get at GV Health.
“I have great support from all the departments that I have worked in, and I have received fantastic education and procedural skills throughout the last two years,” he said.
Dr. Michel said he thrives on the dynamic challenges that come with each day, seizing opportunities for growth and education.
Dr Michel appreciates GV Health’s commitment to professional development, which has allowed him to evolve his skills in a supportive and forward-thinking environment.
“If you’re someone that wants to gain independent procedural skills and wants to continuously evolve their skills and gain education, GV Health is the place for you,” he said.
Make the most of free TAFE
VICTORIAN school-leavers are being urged to seize the opportunity presented by the expanded eligibility for Free TAFE at GOTAFE. Following the second round of Victorian Tertiary Admissions Centre (VTAC) offers, thousands of secondary school graduates have already secured spots in their preferred TAFE or University courses. However, for those still awaiting results, four more VTAC rounds are yet to come.
GOTAFE’s acting executive director education, Luke Surace, emphasised the advantage of Free TAFE, noting that it equips students with valuable skills for high-demand careers without the burden of tuition fees. The increased eligibility introduced in 2023 has persisted into 2024, offering additional courses and opportunities for Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander students.
According to the Victorian Skills Plan, a third of jobs in 2026 will require skills aligned with Vocational Education and Training (VET) qualifications. Free TAFE addresses this demand, supporting training in areas facing shortages.
GOTAFE Information Technology (IT) student, Alistair Wall, highlighted the positive impact of Free TAFE, allowing him to focus on his studies without financial stress. Alistair expressed excitement about industry growth and plans to pursue further studies in Cyber Security.
Key changes in Free TAFE eligibility for 2024 include the removal of specific age, upskilling, or reskilling requirements, making most community members eligible for the program. Additionally, Free TAFE course offerings at GOTAFE have expanded
OPPORTUNITIES... Key changes in Free TAFE eligibility include the removal of specific age, upskilling, or reskilling requirements, making most community members eligible for the program. GOTAFE Information Technology (IT) student, Alistair Wall, said Free TAFE made it possible for him to focus on his studies without financial stress and he plans on furthering his studies at GOTAFE. Photo: Supplied
to include Hospitality and Commercial Cookery certifications. The complete list of Free TAFE courses is available on the GOTAFE website.
Furthermore, both new and continuing students identifying as Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander can now access free tuition. Interested individuals are encouraged to explore the diverse courses offered by GOTAFE in 2024. The training is made possible through funding from the Victorian and Commonwealth Governments for eligible individuals.
For more information, visit GOTAFE’s website: www.gotafe.vic.edu.au/ youve-got-this.
The space and support to thrive at ACE
We’re fortunate to have small classes with just 15 kids, which makes it more manageable to engage students in the curriculum and meet each students’ specific needs
Karren Pollerd
KARREN Pollerd is a Visual Arts Teacher at ACE College. She loves the intimacy of working in a small school and being able to know all the staff, as well as the students.
“This is my ninth year teaching at ACE College and I’ve seen the school undergo enormous evolution and transformation, while staying true to the values and ethos of ACE. This commitment has enabled us to cater to students more broadly.
“We’re fortunate to have small classes with just 15 kids, which makes it more manageable to engage students in the curriculum and meet each students’ specific needs,” she said.
Karren finds watching the students grow into flourishing young adults incredibly rewarding and said ACE has the freedom and flexibility to offer their students opportunities that they might not necessarily have otherwise, allowing them to thrive.
“ACE really promotes getting kids out and about and subjects are designed to give them opportunities that will expose them to the world. All camps and excursions are paid for by the school, providing young people with
valuable experiences they might otherwise miss out on like going overseas or going to the snow,” said Karren.
Shepparton ACE Secondary College aims to provide a safe and supportive small school environment that caters for individual needs. To learn more or to book a tour, please phone 5831 4029.
OUTCOMES
Groundbreaking project for women in Early Childhood Education
By Mikaela Stafrace, WomenCAN
founder and
CEO
EXCITING news for the women and children, indeed for the families, of the Shepparton region!
WomenCAN Australia is proud and happy to be launching our first Shepparton project, which will support 20 women from diverse backgrounds into Early Childhood Education and Childcare traineeships in the Greater Shepparton LGA.
We’re doing it in collaboration with Greater Shepparton Foundation, Greater Shepparton City Council, Bowden Marstan Foundation and GOTAFE.
WCA supports women into employment and education through our unique evidence-based, peer-led, peerdriven support for women by women with shared lived
experience, The Placement Circle.
This support is crucial: many of the women might not have English as their first language, so navigating the system can be daunting. And a lot of the women may have been out of the workforce caring for others.
We give them confidence, connections, and certified skills. We remove barriers.
For the past 10 weeks, we’ve been delighted to team with The Adviser to herald this initiative and to introduce WomenCAN Australia.
Interested employers, trainees and members of the public, why not come along to the launch on February 15, 2024 at Common Ground Cafe, GOTAFE (152-200
EMPOWERING SHEPPARTON... WomenCAN founder and CEO, Mikaela Stafrace, is pleased to announce the launch of a pioneering project, in collaboration with Greater Shepparton Foundation, Bowden Marstan Foundation, GOTAFE and Greater Shepparton City Council. Together, they are unlocking opportunities for 20 diverse women in Early Childhood Education and Childcare traineeships. Join them on 15 Feb 2024 at Common Ground Cafe, GOTAFE, Fryers St for the grand launch! Photo: Supplied
Fryers St), and discover the opportunities of WomenCAN Australia's 'earn & learn' model? There will be afternoon tea, meet and greet opportunities and guest speakers.
Children are the world’s future. Helping them learn in their early years can be your future. We are here to help you make that happen.
Bloody good effort from Goulburn-Murray water
By Aaron Cordy
BLEEDING for the company is something that's often thrown around by employees around the world, staff of Goulburn-Murray Water (GMW) have taken the saying literally by making regular blood donations.
GMW has a Lifeblood team of staff who donate blood at their local Lifeblood branches. In 2023, the team managed a total of 114 blood donations.
GMW asset planning manager Fiona Nioa is one of the regular donors for the team and
has been donating blood for close to 20 years.
“I first tried to donate blood when I was 17 and I actually fainted,” said Ms Nioa.
“For quite a while I wasn’t allowed to try again but after many phone calls, I convinced them to let me have another go. Everything went smoothly, so I have been making regular donations ever since.”
GMW asset strategy and engineering support manager, Shayne Lowe is another who contributed to the Lifeblood Team tally. He said his family and colleagues were a big
part of the reason he had begun giving blood.
“I now have friends and family who rely on blood donations, so I’m really grateful to be able to do my bit. It’s a small commitment but it goes a long way,” said Mr Lowe.
GMW allows employees to take leave to give blood to help incentivise staff to do so.
The Shepparton Donor Centre received over 8,500 lifeblood donations in 2023. To book a donation or check if you can donate, call 131 495 or visit the Lifeblood website: lifeblood.com.au
Cultivating community changemakers
ESTABLISHED in 2004, the Academy of Sport, Health & Education is an Indigenous-focused educational institution making a significant impact in the community.
Offering a variety of community services courses, ASHE caters to students from all backgrounds, not exclusively Indigenous Australians. The courses encompass diverse fields such as social work, counselling, therapy, youth work, disability services, aged care, homelessness support, and more. With classes held only one day a week, ASHE accommodates individuals seeking to enhance their skills in critical areas while balancing work or family commitments.
Among its specialised programs is ASHE’s Nursing and Education Support Program designed for First Nations students. This initiative aims to increase the number of Indigenous nurses, contributing to improved health outcomes for everyone and employment outcomes for Indigenous students.
“Our nursing program has been highly successful, and similar to all our courses, it is supported by strong ties with local businesses and organisations. We can provide opportunities for hands on learning, such as nursing traineeships available at GV Health,” said student services officer, Seldan Andrews.
We want our students to go further, and we encourage them to continue learning and give them the support and guidance to continue their studies or to find rewarding employment
Seldan Andrews
“We want our students to go further, and we encourage them to continue learning and give them the support and guidance to continue their studies or to find rewarding employment.”
Additionally, ASHE offers scholarships, financial support, and other learning assistance to help students successfully complete their courses.
Since launching in 2016, it has increased the number of Indigenous nurses on Yorta Yorta Country and provided a
Soft skills create career success
ABILITIES... Soft skills sculpt careers. From effective communication to problemsolving, they’re the silent architects of professional success. Photo: Supplied
SOFT skills, defined as personality traits and behaviours, play a crucial role in career development. Unlike technical skills, they focus on how individuals interact in various situations rather than knowledge. Job seekers can benefit from understanding and showcasing these attributes.
Soft skills encompass interpersonal and communication abilities that employers value. Examples include effective communication, teamwork, dependability, adaptability, conflict resolution, flexibility, leadership, problem-solving, research, creativity, work ethic, or integrity
During interviews, showcasing these skills
culturally safe and supported environment for students across its’ courses.
To learn more or to apply, call 5823 6600 or email heidilauren.knowles@unimelb.edu.au
Children are the world’s future. They can be your future, too.
is crucial. For instance, discussing problemsolving abilities when addressing challenges demonstrates practical application.
Improving soft skills involves consistent practice and observation. Job seekers can pick a skill to enhance and incorporate it into their routine. Additionally, observing and mimicking positive soft skills in others can aid development.
While hard skills are crucial for technical tasks, soft skills are equally vital for becoming a valued, promotable employee. Job seekers should emphasise and continually develop these skills throughout their career journey.
JOIN US:
Thursday 15 February
3.00 – 4.30pm
Common Ground Café
GOTAFE
Fryers St Shepparton
Afternoon tea
Meet and greet
Guest speakers
WomenCAN Australia is launching its unique 'earn & learn' model in Greater Shepparton.
The program supports women from diverse backgrounds to study and find employment in early years’ services.
Interested employers, trainees and members of the public, please come along and see the opportunities.
RSVP: 5.00pm, 9 February 2024
Donna Baldwin | 0401 071 227 donna.baldwin@womencanaustralia.org
Scholarship opportunity for First Nations people
IN A pioneering move, CitiPower and Powercor are offering scholarships to support First Peoples in pursuing a Pre-Apprenticeship TAFE Certificate II in Electrotechnology. Eight scholarships, valued at up to $2,000, are available for residents in Yorta Yorta Country (Shepparton), Dja Dja Wurrung Country (Bendigo) and Wurundjeri Country (Burnley).
Designed to break down barriers, these scholarships aim to support First Peoples interested in the electrical industry. The funds can be used for various expenses,
including school fees, tools, clothing, rent, childcare, or supplementing income during the course.
Tegan Miller, First Peoples engagement lead at CitiPower and Powercor, emphasised the program's commitment to inclusivity. She said, "We aim to foster a more diverse workforce that better reflects the communities we serve.”
Neil Roberts, technical training manager, highlighted the success of similar programs, encouraging interested individuals to explore the opportunities a
Overseas study tour to cultivate future dairy leaders
ATTENTION, young dairy enthusiasts! The opportunity of a lifetime awaits as the Gardiner Foundation, in collaboration with the Australian Dairy Conference, invites you to apply for the 2024 New Zealand Study Tour.
This eight-day immersive experience, slated for mid to late April, is not your average tour. Open to 12 dynamic professionals aged 18-40 from across Australia, regardless of their role in the dairy sector, the journey promises a deep dive into the challenges and triumphs of New Zealand's dairy landscape.
Applicants could be working on farm or involved in the dairy industry in a different capacity. The tour will provide participants with insights into the opportunities and challenges faced within the New Zealand dairy industry and the leadership required to navigate a successful path.
Allan Cameron, CEO of Gardiner Foundation, said, "The New Zealand Study Tour is a fantastic opportunity for young dairy professionals, our future industry and community leaders, to immerse themselves in all that the New
SPARKING CAREERS... Eight scholarships, each worth up to $2,000, are available to support First Peoples pursuing a
Apprenticeship
II in
(Shepparton) and Wurundjeri Country (Burnley). Recipients can use the funds for various expenses, including school fees, tools, clothing, rent, childcare, or to supplement income during the course. Photo: Supplied
career with CitiPower and Powercor can offer.
For details and applications, visit www.citipower.com. au/scholarships or contact careers@powercor.com.au
established in 2000, is an independent, not-profit committed to maximizing benefits for all sectors of the Victorian dairy industry and communities. With a track record of contributing over $90M to impactful projects, Gardiner Foundation actively collaborates with industry and
communities, leveraging resources and knowledge for a lasting impact. Applications are now open and will close at 11.59pm on Sunday, February 4, with selection interviews to be held in Melbourne. To apply, please visit www.gardinerfoundation.com.au/ new-zealand-study-tour
Making meaningful impact
MHA Care, a non-profit organisation with a rich history dating back to 1999, has been steadfast in its commitment to providing outstanding home and community care services throughout the Moira Shire and adjacent regions. In 2023 we expanded the delivery of our home and community care services into the City of Greater Shepparton area.
Securing funding from both the Victorian State and Commonwealth Governments, MHA Care plays a vital role in delivering subsidised services to eligible clients within the ‘Commonwealth Home Support Programme’ and ‘Home and Community Care Program for Younger People.’
Beyond these government initiatives, MHA Care proudly serves as an approved provider for Home Care Packages, Veterans Home Care, WorkCover and the Transport Accident Commission. Their services extend beyond those covered by government subsidies, catering to individuals who may not qualify for
subsidised aged care services or prefer to privately purchase them. Furthermore, other organisations have the option to engage MHA Care to provide services on behalf of individuals.
MHA Care's core philosophy centres around placing clients first, consistently delivering best-practice care to the elderly, frail and disabled members of the community. This commitment is reflected in the diverse range of services provided across Yarrawonga, Cobram, Numurkah, Nathalia, Shepparton and the surrounding communities.
For those considering a career in the aged care industry, MHA Care offers a rewarding opportunity to join their team as a care worker. The aged care sector is known for its fulfilling nature, and working with MHA Care allows individuals to make a meaningful impact in the lives of those in need. MHA Care has competitive remuneration, NFP Salary Packaging and flexible working arrangements.
To explore this exciting career prospect
their team, offering a fulfilling career with competitive remuneration, NFP Salary Packaging and flexible working arrangements.
and learn more about their services, interested individuals can visit the MHA
Care website at mhacare.org.au or contact them directly at 03 5742 1111.
Grant program to strengthen GP workforce
SEEKING to address the growing need for primary care, the Labor Government has announced a $32M grant program aiming to bolster Victoria's GP workforce.
Minister for Health Mary-Anne Thomas announced 800 grants, each worth up to $40,000, to encourage medical graduates to pursue careers in general practice. Delivering on a key election promise, 400 grants are available in 2024, with an additional 400 in 2025 for those entering Victoria's GP training program.
Eligibility includes medical graduates opting for general practice and doctors commencing training in 2023 who
applied and enrolled after November 27, 2022. The grants aim to counter challenges faced by young doctors, such as higher remuneration in other specialties, fostering interest in general practice.
Applicants can apply through the Australian College of Rural and Remote Medicine (ACRRM) or the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) websites after enrolling in GP training programs. The initiative aligns with the government's commitment to growing the health workforce, recruiting 7,705 healthcare workers, including 3,100 from overseas since 2022.
Acknowledging the critical role GPs play in maintaining
community health, Minister Thomas said, "These grants are providing the incentive graduates need to consider a career in general practice and will ensure Victoria has the GP workforce we need both now and into the future."
The initiative aligns with the government's commitment to overcoming challenges in accessing GP services, complemented by the establishment of Priority Primary Care Centres, the Victorian Virtual Emergency Department, and the Community Pharmacist Statewide Pilot.
To learn more, visit www.health.vic.gov.au/ general-practitioners-grant-program
COME WORK WITH US!
About MHA Care
“MHA Care is a not-for-profit organisation providing high quality Home and Community Care Services across the Moira Shire and City of Greater shepparton.”
Since commencing in 1999 we have grown to become the largest provider of home care services in Moira
Shire and have expanded our Home Care Package Program into the City of Greater Shepparton.
We provide a comprehensive and coordinated system of community care services for the frail, aged, people with a disability and their carers living in the Moira Shire, City of Greater Shepparton.” CARE WORKER EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES
Like most organisations providing services in the Aged Care sector we are currently experiencing significant growth in demand for our services. We have teams based in Yarrawonga, Cobram, Numurkah, Nathalia and Shepparton!
This means we are growing our teams!
MHA Care is an employer of choice. One in which staff are skilled, motivated, valued and supported. Our recruitment and selection is based on our 5 values – Compassion, Transparency, Responsiveness, Accountability and Sustainability.
When you join MHA Care you become a vital part of the team. Our organisation seeks opportunities for growth, development and learning and as a result, our staff are
caring, professional, dedicated and highly skilled in their approach to their work.
MHA Care invites people from all ‘walks of life’ to apply for a Care Worker role. We also encourage new career paths and help support new staff to complete relevant certificate level qualifications in Aged Care. If our 5 values sing to you, and you want to make a difference in the lives of our clients and our community, MHA would love to hear from you.
Contact Us!
If you are interested joining our valuable team of Care Workers and performing this important and valuable work, please visit our website www.mhacare.org.au or send your resume with a covering letter to; hr@mhacare.org.au or call into our office in Orr Street, Yarrawonga for more information.
Anatomy of a good resumé
Make sure your email is appropriate. It’s best to have an email that has your name in it.
Keep your resumé simple! Using out-there fonts, using pictures or lots of colour can be distracting and look unprofessional.
It’s best practice to have multiple versions of your resumé that are tailored to each company you apply for. While the experience and timeline will stay the same, you should call out and highlight specific skills or experiences that suit the position and show why you’re a good fit.
Education is where you say how much education you’ve participated in, and any learning experience you have. You could include any short courses or projects you’ve worked on too.
Put your contact details at the top of the page (but not in the header), so it is easy to find.
Be sure to spellcheck your resumé and get someone else to read over it for spelling and grammatical errors.
Always use positive language. The employer doesn’t need to know your negative qualities.
Achievements: if you haven’t been employed before, use this section to list your positive qualities. You might include things like excellent communication skills or an excellent team worker, a fast learner, a good listener – all of these are attributes that employers are looking for. Lack of formal experience is not always a bad thing in the job market.
Skills and strengths: this is where you should talk about things that would be valuable to the job you’re applying to. Referring to the job ad’s key selection criteria is a good way to address this.
You can give your potential employer references if they ask you for them. This gives you time to speak to your references about the job you’re applying for and to get their permission before sharing their details.