explore throughout the Goulburn & Murray Valleys 28 page lift-out | March 2021
Including Wine Trai Visitors M l ap
A special lift-out supplement brought to you by
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explore your great outdoors in the goulburn + Murray Valleys
IT'S TIME TO HIT THE ROAD By Struan Jones
This Great Outdoors lift out celebrates the possibilities of adventure within our own backyard and the local businesses that help to make it happen.
T
he great outdoors is for everybody. You don’t need much experience. Just a few essential items and you’re set. It’s something the kids will remember forever, with memories of a camping trip long outlasting any memory of spending a long-weekend or school holidays at home. The bush has been a part of the Australian psyche forever. The connection to land so often spoken about among Indigenous communities is not limited to cultures that The great outdoors is have called this place home since before living memory. for everybody. ABOVE: CHASING COD... Keen angler Nick Bailey all smiles on the Murray River. Photo: Ross Threlfall The connection to land is a part of all of us, no matter how urbanised we’ve become. RIGHT: RIGHT HERE IN OUR REGION... Beautiful scenes of Take anyone from the city and get them riverside the Lake Nagambie Holiday Park during the Gofish with a fishing rod, and at least part of them will feel at Nagambie Competition. Photo: Ross Threlfall home. starts during the duck hunting season. There are endless possibilities for adventure in this region. Being in the great outdoors can restore our mood, give It could be a jaunt up Dookie’s Mt Major, lunch at a us back our energy and vitality, refresh and rejuvenate us – winery, fishing in the Goulburn, camping on the Murray, even when we return home filthy and exhausted. going bush in the High Country in the 4x4 before the tracks Happy adventuring! close for winter, or joining friends for some early morning
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FISHING, HUNTING, AND EVERYTHING CAMPING E
XPERTISE, service, and the right gear is what defines a great outdoor shop. You want to leave feeling like you’ve learnt something, not just pulled something from a shelf and paid for it. At Trelly’s Outdoor in Shepparton, owner Steve ‘Trelly’ Threlfall and his team are passionate about people ABOVE: A TEAM OF EXPERTS... The team at Trelly's making the most of their outdoor experiences. Outdoor Fishing and Hunting (l-r) Brad Seiter, Rick Seiter, Ross Threlfall, Spencer Threlfall, Steve has had more than 35 years’ Mary Threlfall, Steve 'Trelly' Trelfall, Charlie experience in the industry, genuinely knows Threlfall, Jaclyn Threlfall, Nelson Rouw and a thing or two about everything outdoorMax Shannon. Photo: Stephanie Holliday related and wants people to enjoy the He Wants people to outdoors as much as he and his family do. FAMILY... Grandson Charlie and grandfather enjoy the outdoors RIGHT:Steve ‘Trelly‘ Threlfall catching brown trout Fishing, camping, hunting, and outdoor as much as he and on the Waranga Basin. Trelly and his family are apparel are Trelly’s specialties. The heavily involved in Trelly‘s Outdoors and the his family do. dedicated team of staff fish and hunt locally region‘s outdoor scene. Photo: Ross Threlfall and can provide you with the best advice along Come into the store and meet the team, have a chat, with the right gear. and let them help you plan your next adventure or get They have a huge range of fishing equipment and you kitted with the right fishing or hunting gear. tackle, the region’s largest range of firearms, and all the Trelly’s Outdoor is 209 Corio St, Shepparton. Call the extras that make an adventure into the great outdoors memorable and wanting you, and your kids, coming back store on 5821 6572. again.
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CATCH THAT DREAM FISH M
AKING the most of our beautiful lakes, rivers and beaches is a wonderful alternative to the overseas travel we’re not likely to engage in for some time. Our corner of the globe is abundant with picturesque waterways, which makes fishing all the more enjoyable. Boats & More Shepparton is one of your ultimate fishing destinations, with friendly experts possessing over 35 years of fishing knowledge to guide you through the store’s plethora of fishing rods, ABOVE: LURING THEM IN... Retail sales assistants tackle, bait and anything else you require for Carl Hainsworth and Pip Clement showcasing catching that elusive ‘dream fish’. Our sales team is Boats & More Shepparton's great range of Not only do they sell all the gear you fishing rods. Photo: Stephanie Holliday super passionate about need for water safety and fishing, Boats & More Shepparton has a fully operational fishing and have fished RIGHT: GONE FISHING... enjoy our great service department and sells new and all over the world waterways. Photo: Supplied used boats and jet skis. They are your themselves of knowledge is our drawcard, as is our everlocal one-stop-shop for boating, fishing and evolving range of extensive products,” Boats & watersports. More owner, Kate Ryan, said. Stockists of big brands such as Shimano, Daiwa, YETI Visit the expert team at 207 Numurkah Rd, Shepparton Australia and many more, if they don’t have what you’re or 72 Northern Hwy, Echuca or visit their online store at after, they can most likely source it for you anyway. boatsandmore.com.au “Our sales team is super passionate about fishing, and have fished all over the world themselves. Their wealth
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explore your great outdoors in the goulburn + Murray Valleys
GET THE GEAR TO GO BEYOND THE SOLAR CITY G
ETTING out into the great outdoors is all about having the gear, the skills, and an appetite for adventure. All outdoor campaigns start with the right equipment - especially when it comes to a 4x4 trip. Shepparton’s Bridgestone Service Centre on New Dookie BUILT TOUGH AT SHEPPARTON 4X4 OFFRoad (formally and ROAD Centre. Photo: Struan Jones People are looking to get locally known as out into the bush. It’s just touring gear. Anything you Solar City Tyres) is also home to a great way to explore need to get outdoors in your 4x4 – including advice for the the newly named our own wonderful complete novice or the veteran Shepparton 4x4 Offbackyard – is available here. Road Centre. Shepparton 4x4 Off-Road The 4x4 Off-Road Centre manager, Damian Hunt, said the Centre is stockists of Australia’s popularity of 4x4 adventures has only own Ironman 4x4 gear, and specialise in suspension, bull bars and off-road
BUILT FOR ADVENTURE... Shepparton 4x4 Off-Road Centre at Solar City Tyres on New Dookie Road can help prepare your 4x4 for the most rugged adventures. Photo: Supplied grown steadily despite the pandemic and the closing the national borders. “People are looking to get out into the bush. It’s just a great way to explore our own wonderful backyard,” Damian said. The Shepparton 4x4 Off-Road Centre specialise in bull bars from Iron Man, Rhino, Drivetech, suspension from Dobinsons and Ironman, MSA storage
drawers and fridge slides, UHF radios by Oricom and lights by Stedi. They also deal in Bridgestone, Mickey Thompson, BF Goodridge and Firestone tyres. Drop in and see Damian and the team at Bridgestone Service Centre – Shepparton at 124-126 New Dookie Rd. Call them on 5858 1284.
FREE MURRAY CODFERENCE BACK ON IN SHEPPARTON RECREATIONAL fishers can rejoice as an action packed and informative day is planned for the return of the free Murray Codference in April this year. Victorian Fisheries Authority chief executive officer, Travis Dowling, said the Codference, on Sunday, April 18, would be a welcome addition to the calendars of freshwater diehards. The keynote speaker this year is Cameron McGregor from River Escapes, an experienced fishing guide from
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North East Victoria with a strong background in research and a passion for sharing his fishing knowledge. Attendees will also hear from guest speakers on topics including the new native fish hatchery at nearby Arcadia, Murray cod fisheries management, tourism trails, and tips and tricks from fishing gurus. “Steve ‘Trelly’ Threlfall will share his knowledge on new and useful fishing products for natives. Ben Scullin from VRFish will speak about better access to our
Murray cod fisheries and Yorick Piper from the VFA’s Board will share his personal journey as a cod fisher,” Mr Dowling said. The Codference is at Riverlinks Eastbank Conference Centre, 70 Welsford Street, Shepparton, on Sunday, April 18 from 9am until 4pm. Tea, coffee and lunch will be provided. Up to 300 people are expected to register so get in quick to reserve a free seat - www.vfa.vic.gov.au/codference
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explore your great outdoors in the goulburn + Murray Valleys
THE BEST OF THE GREAT OUTDOORS Y
OU don’t have to travel far from home to get a taste of the great outdoors. Here are six of the best outdoor spots to be explored right here in Greater Shepparton. For more information, the Greater Shepparton Visitor Centre will be opening at its new location at the new Shepparton Art Museum at Victoria Park on March 31, or contact them on 5832 9330.
1. AUSTRALIAN BOTANIC GARDENS, SHEPPARTON
The Australian Botanic Gardens Shepparton features native plants in seven hectares of themed gardens designed to represent the cultural, environmental, historical and agricultural characteristics of the Goulburn Valley. With extensive walking paths, the gardens provide expansive views from the top of the 30m-high Honeysuckle Rise lookout.
2. CUSSEN PARK, TATURA
Cussen Park is a bushland style park encompassing 33 hectares of wetlands, woodlands and open space on the outskirts of Tatura. It is host to an array of wildlife, birdlife and mammals and provides ample opportunity for walking and bird watching with well-made paths and bird hides.
4. MT MAJOR, DOOKIE
FAMILY TIME... At Cussen Park, Tatura. Photo: Supplied
3. GOULBURN RIVER, GREATER SHEPPARTON
HIGH POINT... The Australian Botanic Gardens, Shepparton are a local must-see. Photo: Supplied
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The Goulburn River is one of four Heritage Rivers in Victoria. It is popular for fishing, canoeing and camping in the nearby Lower Goulburn National Park and the Shepparton Regional Park. The Yanha Gurtji shared path network has over 40km of pathways that run alongside the banks of the river.
Mount Major is a popular destination for both walkers and mountain bike enthusiasts. Mulana nin iyoga (Yorta Yorta for 'Spirit of the Stone') is a 4.6km (return) walking trail on the northern side of Mount Major, while the southern side has a great network of mountain bike trails. Fantastic views of the surrounding countryside can be seen from the summit.
GET ON UP... Mt Major walking trail, Dookie. Photo: Supplied
5. DOOKIE RAIL TRAIL, DOOKIE
LIFE BLOOD OF THE REGION... The confluence of the Goulburn and Broken Rivers. Photo: Supplied
The region’s first rail trail, this scenic bitumen path is set at the base of Mt Saddleback and traverses more than 4.7km (9.4kms return) of the Goulburn Valley’s most fertile farm land. The recently opened extension adds another 3.1km (6.2km return) to the trail, making for a great family day out.
FAMILY TIME... Traverse the Goulburn Valley's fertile farmland on the Dookie Rail Trail. Photo: Supplied
explore your great outdoors in the goulburn + Murray Valleys
ON OUR REGION'S DOORSTEP 6. MURCHISON RAIL TRAIL AND DOCTOR'S SWAMP WILDLIFE RESERVE, MURCHISON
An 8km section of trail from the Murchison Township to the rail bridge at Channel Inlet Road includes the recently refurbished historically significant bridge over the Stuart Murray Canal, and borders the unique ecosystem of Doctor's Swamp wetlands.
bushwalkers. “I was inspired to create something new for locals, visitors and educators, giving them the confidence to venture out into our beautiful bushland...and so Mansfield Bushwalks was born,” Monnie said. “I look forward to guiding locals and visitors on and off the beaten track.” For more information, visit mansfieldbushwalks.com.au or call Monnie on 0480 226 256.
BREATH OF FRESH AIR... The Murchison Rail Trail. Photo: Supplied
AND FURTHER AFIELD.. 1. MANSFIELD BUSHWALKS
A guided bushwalk is the perfect way to experience the Mansfield region on foot. Simone (Monnie) Richardson was born in Mansfield and offers walks and tours for beginners though to experienced
GATEWAY TO THE HIGH COUNTRY.. Monnie Richardson of Mansfield Bushwalks offers guided tours of the beautiful Mansfield region. Photo: Supplied
2. M.V. MARY ANN, ECHUCA
Experience Australia's longest river by climbing aboard Echuca's M.V. Mary Ann, and have a rich, modern dining experience. Sailing past the historic port of Echuca and under the 150-year-old EchucaMoama Bridge, the M.V. Mary Ann departs from MODERN DINING EXPERIENCE... Riverboat Dock, Watson St, The M.V. Mary Ann docks at Echuca from Wednesday Echuca. Photo: Supplied through to Sunday at 10am and 12pm, with sunset dinner cruises on Saturday nights. For more information, visit maryann.com.au or call 5480 7000.
3. KINGFISHER CRUISES, BARMAH
Kingfisher Cruises tour a stretch of the Murray River known as the Barmah Choke. Guests who cruise the ancient waters are often surprised and amazed by close encounters with local wildlife. Passionate eco-tourism GET UP CLOSE TO NATURE... advocate and owner/operator Sail along a world at Kingfisher Cruises, Benita heritage listed wetland Cox, is proud to showcase the on Barmah's Kingfisher world heritage listed wetland Cruises. Photo: Supplied with thousands of years of indigenous culture. "It's a place where I can connect with the environment by experiencing its past, present and future at the same time… it's simply just magic,” Benita said. For more information, For more information, the Greater Shepparton visit kingfishercruises. com.au or call 5855 Visitor Centre will be opening 2855. at its new location at the new
Shepparton Art Museum at Victoria Park on March 31, or contact them on 5832 9330.
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KEEP IT CLEAN... And do the right thing. Leaving rubbish in the bush is illegal and you can be prosecuted (by Parks Victoria, not by Russell Coight). Photo: Supplied
KEEP OUR BACKYARD CLEAN:
DON’T BE A TOSSER TOUGH WHEELS FOR TOUGH TERRAIN... Timothy Webb (left) and Rod Poliness of Central Tyre Service Shepparton with their rugged goodyear ford Raptor. Photo: STEVE HUTCHESON.
ALL TERRAIN TYRE NEEDS O
NE of the most important components of ensuring your 4x4 is able to handle tough terrain is to make sure you have tyres that are up for the challenge. Central Tyre Service has an extensive range of tyres for all types of 4x4 vehicles. Whether you require tyres for all terrain driving or to do some serious off-roading with, the friendly and expert team has what you require for any type of outdoor adventure. Stocking a wide range of Goodyear products suitable for all your 4x4 needs, the Goodyear Wrangler range includes ‘Wrangler AT SilentTrac’ to ensure off road performance while maintaining a quiet and comfortable ride, ‘Wrangler AT Adventure’ with added strength and
sidewall protection and the robust ‘Wrangler DuraTrac’ for serious four-wheel drive enthusiasts. The Goodyear Wrangler MTR signature mud tyre is made in the USA and features three-ply sidewalls with an innovative asymmetric tread design. This supports intense off-road traction whilst maintaining enhanced handling in all situations. Goodyear’s range of 4x4 tyres offers increased puncture resistance for confident off-road driving, ensuring piece of mind on your outdoor expedition. Central Tyre Service Shepparton is located at 117 Welsford St, Shepparton and can be contacted on 5821 9555 for a free quote.
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WE live in a beautiful part of the world. Don’t spoil it by leaving your camping or fishing rubbish behind when you shoot through. Dumping rubbish is both illegal and harmful to the environment and Parks Victoria rangers patrol parks regularly to ensure people are doing the right thing and undertake investigations when dumping occurs, which can result in fines or prosecution. According to Parks Victoria Area Chief Ranger, Jessica Reid, areas that generally have the highest rates of dumping and litter are in the Shepparton Regional Park closer to central Shepparton and Mooroopna. This is an ongoing problem that has unfortunately been constant for many years. Recently, there has been an increase in litter from abandoned campsites around the Murchison area. Anyone caught littering, dumping domestic, garden or commercial waste can face significant penalties ranging from on-the-spot fines to court prosecutions. Infringements range from $330 up to $6608.89. People witnessing rubbish dumping or littering in a park can call Parks Victoria on 13 19 63 or the EPA Litter line: 1300 372 842.
GO BUSH FOR YOUR WELLBEING
explore your great outdoors in the goulburn + Murray Valleys
4x4 EXPERTS... (back l-r) TJM mechanic/ fitter Tre Penola, sales manager Travis Carter, TJM Shepparton owner Alfred Boncaldo, mechanic/fitter Tim Cheyne, (front l-r) mechanic/fitter Marcus Lagudi and auto electrician Billy Warren. Photo: Stephanie Holliday
IF YOU CAN DREAM IT, THEY CAN DO IT M ANY of us have now faced the reality that international travel won’t be on the cards any time soon. Thankfully, we live in a beautiful part of the world where rivers and picturesque camping grounds are only a stone’s throw away. Shepparton 4x4 specialists TJM has been empowering adventures into the unknown since 1973, and their Shepparton branch is a one-stop destination for 4x4 accessories, upgrades and anything else required to maximise your outdoor expeditions. Boasting a full workshop, TJM specialises in custom work including installation of draw systems, communication devices, dual battery systems in addition to external 4x4 fit outs. Thanks to their experienced fitment staff, they will
ensure your 4x4 is ready for whatever lies ahead. After purchasing external fitted accessories like a bull bar, recovery winch, side steps, canopies and more, the TJM Shepparton team can organise fitment of your new gear to your vehicle. Upgrading your vehicle’s suspension system or Gross Vehicle Mass enhances your 4x4’s on and off-road potential by increasing its ride, comfort, handling and load-carrying capability. As suspension experts, TJM can tailor a suspension solution to suit you, your vehicle and the loads you need to carry. While you’re in store, remember to check out their range of swags and hard-shell tents to complete your camping arsenal. Drop in and see the friendly TJM team at 8005 Melbourne Rd, Kialla or give them a call on 5823 5285.
RATHER BE FISHING... Shepparton's Maddy Kraulis on the Delatite River chasing trout. Photo: Ross Threlfall SHEPPARTON’S Steve ‘Trelly’ Threlfall is a guy who knows the positive power of being out in the bush. As the owner of Trelly’s Outdoors, he’s been in the business of kitting people out for their outdoor adventures for 35 years. He takes a philosophical view on what it means to get out into the bush, too. “I had an old mate who came into the store just recently. He’d been going through a rough time, was under a lot of stress,” Steve said. “He told me that getting out fishing was the only time he truly managed to ‘switch off’. He said it was fishing that helped him cope with tough times. He’d be so engaged with fishing he said he’d even forget his partner’s name.” Steve has been preaching the benefits to anyone’s mental wellbeing of getting out into the great outdoors for years. “The wellbeing around fishing and how it can aid in the process of mending problems - life problems really is profound. Fishing is just a really, really powerful thing,” he said. More than ever in history, more of us are living in cities and losing, generation at a time, the connection with land, and it’s to our loss. But it doesn’t have to be that way. Trelly is passionate about making it easier for people to get out, cast in a line, and set up camp. It’s a great Australian tradition worth encouraging.
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explore your great outdoors in the goulburn Valley
OFF-ROAD CARAVANNING A CRUISE C ARAVANNING and true off-road adventures into remote parts normally don’t go hand-in-hand. Most caravans aren’t designed to be towed up 4WD tracks or on remote hauls, and that’s where Shepparton’s Rhys Conti saw a gap in the market. A keen outdoor adventurer, Rhys ended up building his own caravan, and CRZR Industries was born. “I've always enjoyed being remote. I just couldn't see anything on the caravan market that was going to get us there - hassle free, anyway,” he said. Rhys and his team manufacture high-end custommade caravans right here in Shepparton. Each CRZR caravan is made specifically with the client after a thorough consultation process.
“Most caravans are designed for the highways and caravan parks, and that’s what 99 percent of people are going to do,” he said. “But there’s a small minority of people out there who want the full package. If they want to go to the middle of nowhere, we make caravans that can do it and they don’t have to stress about little things on their ’van and whether it's going to make it home or not.” Beyond caravans, CRZR also builds tradies’ trailers and ‘toy haulers’ - anything that can pull motorbikes or ATVs, with features like built-in kitchens fully customisable. For build enquiries, contact Rhys Conti on 0437 410 884 or check out their website crzrindustries.com.
ADVENTURE-PROOF... CRZR Caravans are built for remote destinations. Photos: Supplied
REMOTE OUTBACK ADVENTURES SORTED C
for camping remotely is our specialty, and our AMPING in the remotest parts of our fully equipped workshop and exceptional skill sunburnt country is no easy feat, but level of our team turns our customers’ off-road the relatively untouched landscape, travelling dreams into a reality.” the breathtaking views and the Wangaratta Off-Road works in tandem uninterrupted serenity makes it worthwhile. with Rhys Conti of Shepparton’s CRZR Brad Healy, owner of Wangaratta OffIndustries, while also being stockists Road, is no stranger to travelling off of Brad Healy’s own caravan the beaten track, and his passion brand High Country Caravans, and wealth of knowledge lends to bring their clients a caravan itself to the way he and his our team turns our or camper customised to their team ensure their customers customers' off-road needs, and suited to varying are all set for any situation that travelling dreams budgets. may arise in the outback. Being stockists and fitters of “We have such a keen interest into a reality. Ironman 4x4 parts and accessories in camping and remote travel, it renders them able to fully prepare 4x4 really helps us to put ourselves in our vehicles for all types of outback adventures. customer’s shoes and imagine anything they Wangaratta Off-Road is located at 1-3 may need to make their trip safe, convenient Norton Street, Wangaratta, they can contacted and to ensure their transport is able to handle via email at brad@wangarattaoffroad.com.au the terrain,” Mr Healy said. or give them a bell on 5721 2943. “Setting vehicles, caravans and campers up
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REMOTE CAMPING EXPERTS... Rhys Conti of CRZR Industries with Wangaratta Off-Road owner Brad Healy. Photo: Supplied
explore your great outdoors in the goulburn + Murray Valleys
MARINE AND CARAVANS ONE STOP SHOP G
ETTING a new toy such as a boat or caravan is an unbeatable feeling. Sometimes however we may find ourselves scratching our heads once we realise we’re having trouble with an awning or forgot to ask a crucial question about our boat’s motor. Thankfully, Solar City Marine & Caravans offer a personalised, in-depth service at handover where all your questions are answered, driver instruction lessons provided and tuition on Solar City Marine all operating procedures are & Caravans offer a SERVING THE NEEDS OF LOCAL TRAVELLERS...(L-R) service advisor Sam Mangiameli, mechanic Glenn Burston, office manager Donna Cleeland, covered in addition to anything dealer principal Leigh McCully, sales assistant Kyle Hanna and sales manager, Jim Edmunds. Photo: Stephanie Holliday personalised, inelse you may require. depth service at a complete service for your new Numurkah Road, Shepparton and can be contacted To enhance the off-road characteristics of A one-stop shop for all caravan, handover on 5831 6388. Solar City Marine & Caravans pride their Nova caravans, they stock a large range of investment from start to finish. camping and boating needs, Solar themselves on their wealth of knowledge and Adventure Kings 4wd and camping accessories In addition to their full workshop, they City Marine & Caravans is also an exceptional level of customer service. and the full range of King’s 4x4 equipment that will also stock Quintrex boats, Yamaha outboards and authorised Yamaha service provider with a fully enhance a vehicle for any type of adventure. have an extensive range of caravans from awardequipped workshop, ensuring they can provide Solar City Marine & Caravans are located at 195 winning, custom build specialists Nova caravans.
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explore your great outdoors in the goulburn + Murray Valleys
BORN TO LIVE... Ken Muston Isuzu UTE sales manager, Kate Towe, with a brand new D-MAX, the most capable D-MAX yet. Photo: Struan Jones
GO THE DISTANCE... The Isuzu D-MAX is fast becoming an icon. Image: Supplied
A NEW GENERATION OF TOUGH OFF-ROAD UTE P
OWER, reputation, and towing capacity are three things that come to mind when you think of the iconic Isuzu UTE D-MAX. This new generation of tough features Isuzu’s 3.0L turbo diesel engine delivers a massive 140kW of power and 450Nm of torque, is matched with either a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic transmission. The result is outstanding performance designed to handle the harshest of Australian conditions, whether on or off road, at work or at play. The popularity of the Isuzu UTE brand is reaching new heights, which Ken Muston Isuzu UTE sales manager, Kate Towe, can attest to. “The new model has been out since September and sales have been fantastic,” she said. “The 4x4 X-Terrain Crew Cab Ute is the hero model, and there’s been a huge amount of interest.
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“A lot of people are interested in this 4x4, from retirees looking to tow caravans, to tradies, farmers, and basically anyone who has had a D-MAX before.” Late last year, Isuzu UTE bashed its way into Australia's top 10 brand list for the first time ever, with the Japanese brand riding a D-Max-shaped wave of popularity. Last November The D-MAX trailed only the Toyota HiLux and the Ford Ranger on the top-selling ute list. “Isuzu has the iconic 3.0L engine, that’s the main draw for most people. That engine has been around for such a long time and has such a good reputation,” Kate said. “The people who are in their Isuzu love them.” Ken Muston Isuzu UTE is at 205 Benalla Rd, Shepparton. Call them on 5821 6688.
explore your great outdoors in the goulburn + Murray Valleys
A PASSION FOR EXPLORING T
ravel is an integral part of many peoples’ lives, whether it be to visit loved ones, a relaxing escape or a thrilling adventure. As many of us now are looking to the natural beauty of Australia for such trips, it’s no surprise the choice to travel by 4 wheel drive has increased exponentially. Given our rugged terrain, 4 wheel driving is one such way to see the natural beauty our country has to offer up close. ARB Shepparton lives and breathes 4 wheel drives, their widely recognised name ABOVE: 4 WHEEL DRIVE EXPERTS... (l-r) ARB Shepparton lends itself to the level of experience, sales manager Jedd Wilkinson, owner Simon Guthrie, depth of knowledge and vast product We are all 4 wheel service manager Peter Feldtmann and parts manager range they encompass. Terry McDonald. Photo: Stephanie Holliday drive obsessed here, With a dynamic team of 20 local people, it’s in our blood. RIGHT: GET OUT THERE... ARB Shepparton can help you live Simon Guthrie from ARB Shepparton states the dream in the great outdoors. Photo: Supplied their passion for the industry is conveyed to their customers through their level of exceptional trip is on the cards to ensure your vehicle is fitted out and service. ready to go before you head off.” “We are all 4 wheel drive obsessed here, it’s in our ARB Shepparton is located at 180 Benalla Road blood. We understand the attention to detail and passion Shepparton, just up from Shepparton Marketplace and our customers look for as we also share it ourselves,” they can be contacted on 5822 1877. Send an email Simon said. to info@arbshepparton.com.au or visit them online at “With so many people turning to road travel, we arbshepparton.com.au. definitely suggest getting in as soon as a 4 wheel drive
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explore your great outdoors in the goulburn + Murray Valleys
GET THE BEST OF THE STRATHBOGIE RANGES AT FOWLES WINE THE LADS AT ULTIMATE fasteners ARE GARDEN READY... Grant Casey, purchasing, Chris Shanahan, sales, and Simon Decker, sales, can show you the gear you need for a great gardening experience. Photo: Steve Hutcheson.
DOES YOUR GARDEN OF EDEN NEED A TRIM? AMAZING FOOD, UNFORGETTABLE SETTING... The Fowles Wine restaurant is a relaxed, light and airy space offering an à la carte, seasonal menu with full table service. Photo: Supplied
F
OWLES Wine of Avenel is about to celebrate their second birthday since the renovation of their Restaurant and Cellar Door. “The vision was to bring people closer to our land and region, through food and wine, and add a little bit of adventure to the everyday,” Fowles Wine vigneron, Matt Fowles, said. “While our first birthday was overshadowed by COVID-19, we are excited to see people back visiting us and using Fowles as a regional food and wine hub to reconnect with family and
friends over a meal or at events in our new Wine Shed function space.” Fowles Restaurant breakfast and lunch menu is designed to showcase the best of the Strathbogie Ranges with authentic dishes made using seasonal ingredients from the family property and local producers. Located off the Hume Highway, between Melbourne and Albury, Fowles is a convenient meeting point. Wine tastings, outdoor dining spaces and a children’s playground make it perfect for everyone to enjoy.
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W
HEN the great outdoors is confined to the outdoor space around your home, what began as a few shrubs and trees, can in a short space of time turn into a domestic jungle, where every few spaces open up new possibilities and new challenges. Francis Bacon said gardening was indeed the purest of human pleasures. Having the right tools for the job makes it even more so. In this age where battery tools are dominating the trade markets, they are doing the same thing with garden tools. Milwaukee is an American tool range that has been around for almost one hundred years and has built a reputation
for reliability and quality. Their outdoor power tool range include products like the multi-head on which several attachments can be connected, there are different sized chain saws, spray tanks, hedge trimmers, line trimmers, edgers and blowers in the range. Ultimate Fasteners has the Milwaukee range of tools as a feature display making it easy for gardeners to see all the options available to keep even the wildest garden under control. If travel is not on your list of things to do and gardening is, drop into Ultimate Fasteners at 17 A Mitchell St, Shepparton and talk to the team there to get your start with Milwaukee, phone 5822 4122.
explore your great outdoors in the goulburn + Murray Valleys
STRENGTH COMES FROM WITHIN WITH 3.5 TONNE TOWING CAPACITY
V
OLKSWAGEN re-wrote the rule book of the burgeoning 4x4 ute market in 2010, by becoming the first mainstream European brand to build a premium product being the Amarok
Ute. Today, the Amarok V6 TDI is the image of a tough, uncompromisingly powerful ute with effortless 3.5-tonne towing capacity and good looks to match. Shepparton Volkswagen dealer principal, Ewan Schultz (who drives an Amarok himself), said the main appeal of the Amarok comes from the ABOVE: ADVENTURE MACHINE... Shepparton VW Group’s powerful 3.0 litre V6 Turbo Volkswagen sales consultant Ash Bettridge Diesel engine (also used in the Audi Q7, (left) with dealer principal Ewan Schultz with Porsche Cayenne, and VW Touareg). the powerful V6 VW Amarok in their showroom “It’s a premium ute and the most on the Midland Highway. Photo: Struan Jones it pulls a caravan or powerful ute in its class by a large RIGHT: PREMIUM TOUGHNESS... The VW Amarok can take trailer with ease and margin,” he said. you just about everywhere. Photo: Supplied can basically take “Its V6 engine and 8-speed gearbox arches. means it pulls a caravan or trailer you anywhere It’s European luxury and ultimate with ease and can basically take you performance all in one. anywhere.” Shepparton Volkswagen is at 325-329 Midland Inside, being the widest ute in the class the Highway, Shepparton and can be contacted on 5822 Amarok boasts plenty of space for five passengers and 5844. your belongings. It even fits a pallet between the wheel
ON TREK FOR ADVENTURE
ALL YOUR CAMPNG NEEDS... Owners of Tip 'n' Go Trailers Rob McQualter and Michelle McQualter. Photo: Stephanie Holliday
L
IVING in regional Australia means it’s no surprise when a rogue kangaroo decides to make a mad dash in front of our cars. As sad as it is, it’s always a good idea to have the added protection of a bull bar in place to protect your vehicle. Bull bars not only protect your vehicle from mishaps and during off-road adventures, but they also allow you to mount winches and attach accessories such as driving lights, aerials and sand flags if you partake in a little dune driving on a beach adventure. Trek Hardware 4x4 Superstore Shepparton are proud stockists of Jungle 4x4 bull bars, which are designed and developed by Trek. All Jungle bull bars are airbag compatible and ADR approved, having been tested in Australia. They fit bull bars and
accessories onsite in their workshop, rendering them a one-stop-shop from point of purchase to installation. Caravan and camping accessories are also stocked in store, with everything from drink bottles and camp stoves to roof racks and myCOOLMAN fridges and freezers. Powerful, robust and ready for any adventure, myCOOLMAN fridges and freezers bring freshness to the Australian bush. Designed and engineered in Germany to suit the demanding Australian conditions, myCOOLMAN offers versatility with a range of practical features and sophisticated technology including battery protection. Call into Trek Hardware 4x4 Superstore located at 8018 Goulburn Valley Hwy, Kialla or contact them on 5823 1066.
Explore your great outdoors in the goulburn and Murray valleys | March, 2021 - Page 23
Katunga
Echuca
Monichino Wines
Dookie
Shepparton
Murchison
Longleat Wines
Silver Spoon Estate
Nagambie
Heathcote
Euroa
Tar & Roses Maygars Hill Vineyard
Fowles Wine Wine X Sam
FOWLES WINERY
LONGLEAT ESTATES
cnr hume Fwy & Lambing Gully Rd, Avenel
105 Old Weir Rd, Murchison
03 5796 2150. Our newly renovated Fowles Restaurant and Cellar Door is a great place to meet up with friends or for functions. Book online at fowleswine. com or call 03 5796 2150
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03 5826 2294 Guido and Sandra invite you to their cellar door and casual café which is nestled amongst the Longleat vineyard. Cellar Door is open Sat & Sun 10am-5pm Meal bookings essential
Seymour
MAYGARS HILL WINERY
MONICHINO WINERY
53 Longwood-Mansfield Rd, Longwood East
70 Berrys Road, Katunga
119 Corio St, Shepparton
03 5864 6452
05821 2051
0402 136 448 Come and enjoy wine of excellence and complexity. Purchase online or locally at Phillips Cellars. Cellar door by arrangement.
Italian Tradition in Victorian Wine. Monichino Wines has a function room with kitchen available for hire with a fully serviced bar. Cellar door is open Wed to Sun 11am – 4pm
PHILLIPS CELLARS
Supporting 45 local wineries with over 300 wines. Opne Mon-Fri 9am-6pm, Sat 9am-4pm
WINE TRAIL VISITORS MAP
GOULBURN MURRAY VALLEYS & ALPINE REGION
Tallis Wine
Wangaratta Myrtleford
King Valley
Mount Buffalo Sassy Sister Liqueur
Merton
SASSY SISTER LIQUEUR
SILVER SPOON ESTATE
15 Arvidsons Road, Merton
503 Heathcote-Rochester Road (C347) Mount Camel
0428 173 288 Decadent Blueberry Liqueur Purchas online from our website or Dan Murphy online. Also stocked in selected outlets in Central Victoria. Sassysisterliqueur.com.au
0412 167 927 Silver Spoon Estate is a boutique family-owned and operated vineyard and winery; 100% off-grid, sun powered, nonirrigated located in the heart of the Heathcote region. Call in for sit-down wine tastings in our Barrel Room, or our ornamental Wine Garden. Open Friday to Sunday 10:30am 5:30pm
TALLIS WINE
TAR & ROSES
WINE X SAM
195 Major Plains Rd, Dookie
61 Vickers Lane, Nagambie
69 Anzac Ave, Seymour
0437 825 547
03 5794 1811
03 5799 0437
Experience warm hospitality, guided wine tastings, shared platters & captivating natural beauty. Bookings recommended. www.talliswine.com.au
Inspired by the Mediterranean, uniquely Australian. Our range stretches from the delicious viscous Pinot Grigio to the complex tannic Nebbiolo. Cellar Door open- First weekend of every month. Open Easter Sat, Sun and Mon 3rd - 5th April
Discover Wine by Sam Plunkett, book a tour of our unique urban winery. Our cellar door and Café are open Frid- Sun 10am-4pm Purchase at cellar door or online
Explore your great outdoors in the goulburn and Murray valleys | March, 2021 - Page 25
explore your great outdoors in the goulburn + Murray Valleys
RIGHT TOOLS FOR THE TRIP O
UTDOOR power tools have their place around the house and on the farm, but they can also be essential to any intrepid bush trip. Out on some backwoods fire trail, you’re as likely to come across a downed tree across your path as you are a wallaby. The difference is the wallaby will get out of your way. Having some handy power tools on board to get you out of a tricky situation handy power tools on and can keep the wheels turning. An board can get you out of TOOL EXPERTS... Come in and see Aaron Cox (Sales Specialist) and Haxhije Cox (Owner) at Total Tools onboard chainsaw, for example. Shepparton to see their range of outdoor power tools and equipment. Photo: Struan Jones a tricky situation and At Shepparton’s Total Tools, the team can keep the wheels delivers the aroma of freshly brewed coffee time for some bush-based R&R. stocks a range of products that can make turning Total Tools Shepparton has relocated to its brand-new to the camp site or wherever you are. your outdoor life more comfortable. Think site at 46-52 Benalla Rd, (the old Empire building). Call This locally owned, family run business has heavy duty radios and Bluetooth speakers, them on 5821 6400. been supplying the region’s tradies and builders for lighting, torches, generators and of course, power over 10 years, and can help you sort your kit when it’s tools. Makita even make a Cordless Coffee Maker, which
TAKE THE WORRY OUT OF TRAVEL A
be installing video surveillance that sends S the country looks more and an alert directly to your mobile phone. more to travelling within Australia Standby Security provide a range and more people are buying new of security services to provide all the luxury caravans, there is an protection you will want, among unintended consequence that them includes a video people tend to forget about. monitoring service that Each year, the number of is coupled to their quick caravans that are stolen has been increasing. Not Each year, the number response patrols. The sends a signal to only that, when people of caravans that are service their security centre and to leave on holidays their stolen has been your mobile app. homes become a target for increasing. If you are setting up to do thieves. your travelling within Australia, This rise in crime is placing it will pay to plan your security well extra pressure on people to ahead of time by contacting Standby maintain a more intensive security Security and set out all the measures that program to ensure their valuables will be will keep your possessions secure. secure and their vacations can be more Available seven days a week, relaxed. phone 1800 809 579 or visit www. There are a number of security standbysecurity.com.au for rapid measures that come into play and all response. should be encouraged, however one of the most successful has been shown to
KEEPING YOUR TRAVEL EXPERIENCE SECURE... Angelo Kakouros, director at Standby Security and his team can provide all you need to monitor your home, your business and your caravans, allowing you to get on with a great travel experience. Photo: Supplied.
2021 VICTORIAN DUCK HUNTING SEASON ARRANGEMENTS THE arrangements for the 2021 duck season are based on analysis of habitat and waterbird surveys conducted across eastern Australia and other data relating to game duck abundance, habitat distribution and climate. Season length: Season opens – Wednesday, May 26 Season closes – 30 mins after sunset, Monday, June 14 Start times from Wednesday, May 26 – Sunday, May 30, inclusive: 8:00am
Hunting times for the rest of the season: Half an hour before sunrise to half an hour after sunset Bag limit: Two game ducks per day Game duck species prohibited from being hunted in 2021: • Blue-winged Shoveler • Chestnut Teal (north of Princes Highway/Freeway only) • Grey Teal (north of Princes Highway/ Freeway only)
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Hunters MUST: Immediately retrieve all downed game ducks and salvage at least the breast meat of harvested ducks. All licensed hunters must pass a Waterfowl Identification Test before being permitted to hunt ducks. Details of the 2021 duck season, including any wetland closures, will be regularly updated on the GMA website, www.gma.vic.gov.au.
HUNTING SEASON... The 2021 duck season has been modified by the Game Management Authority. Photo: Supplied
explore your great outdoors in the goulburn + Murray Valleys
EUROPEAN VAN A TRADIES’ FAVOURITE T
HE Renault Trafic is a definite favourite for trades and business owners in the Goulburn Valley. With an efficient and powerful turbo diesel engine, steel bulkhead, left-hand sliding door and rear Barn Doors (plus many more features) it’s a great vehicle to work out of day in, day out. With the 2021 model now standard with safety features such as rear parking sensors along with a rear camera you can be assured you will be safe when leaving any jobsite or parking around town. Shepparton Renault general manager, Simon O’Loughlin, said the vans have been popular in Shepparton, particularly with their fiveyear, 200,000km warranty. “By far it is the most popular van for tradies’ in the GV, and it’s not just tradies – it's also for clients who do parcel and stock deliveries, pool maintenance, you name it our Trafic van can do it,” he said. “We get a lot of repeat customers which is great for a local businesses as we love the fact that we can provide local businesses with all their transport needs.” Priced competitively from $37,490 drive away, the Renault Trafics are also convenient to maintain on a 30,000km or 12-month service schedule which is also capped price for the first five services. Shepparton Renault also has the facility to provide loan vehicles while yours gets serviced on most occasions. Shepparton Renault is at 8002 Goulburn Valley Hwy, Kialla (on the left as you’re heading south towards Melbourne). Call the team on 5823 2940.
ABOVE: ALWAYS DELIVERS... Shepparton Renault general manager, Simon O’Loughlin, with the latest generation Renault Trafic, a perfect tradies vehicle. Photo: Struan Jones ' RIGHT: BUILT FOR BUSINESS... The Renault Trafic is an efficient and durable workmate. Photo: Supplied
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