House and Land March 2023

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The psychological well-being embedded in good interior design

By Natasha Fujimoto

In

the hurley-burley of

modern life, there is perhaps nothing quite so important as the protection and peace of your own home.

Offering more than just comfort, a home is a haven, a place for you and your loved ones to relax, reboot and simply, be.

With an ever-growing body of psychological research linking good interior design to emotional health and wellbeing, it is important to carefully consider the layout of your own home.

According to the science, while spaciousness, functional layout, sunlight and the incorporation of plants and flowers can elevate mood, conversely clutter, misuse of colour and poor lighting can trigger negative responses such as stress and anxiety.

While a professional interior designer knows how to consciously manipulate decorative elements with the goal of encouraging creativity, peace and happiness, below are few key elements to consider when beautifying your own home.

Function refers to how you layout a room or prioritise a piece of furniture for practical use over how it looks. A room should first and foremostly be user friendly, with easily accessible cupboards and draws, for example.

Spaciousness contributes to elevated moods, while clutter causes high stress levels.

Balance and consistency relate to how furnishings in a space feel like they belong, objects that don’t belong will make you feel uncomfortable.

Sunlight in abundance is a mood lifter and is a great energiser and motivator. Spaces that are meant for work or creativity should have ample natural light.

Colour is one of the most impactful elements of design on mental health

A SENSE OF PEACE, CALM AND JOY... is brought to your home with a little thought and care. Psychological research shows a critical link between good interior design and the mental health and well-being impacts of living in a functional, aesthetically pleasing space. Photo: Supplied

with research even pointing out that spectrums of colour effect different parts of the body.

Plants and flowers elevate mood with their natural, aesthetic beauty and have a significant relaxing effect.

We are your flooring specialists for carpet, floating floors, vinyl and much more. We have a huge range to choose from and because of buying power, you get better value!

Updated policy to reduce landfill

AN updated Kerbside Landfill Waste, Recycling and Organics Collection Policy will be implemented in stages across Greater Shepparton beginning in March.

Coming in line with the Victorian Government’s Recycling Victoria Policy, which aims to divert 80 percent of waste from landfill by 2030, Kialla and Tatura will begin the region’s transition from this month, with red bins being collected fortnightly and green bins collected weekly.

The remainder of Greater Shepparton will follow suit with bin collection later in the year as part of Council’s updated

policy, bringing a standard bin service across the municipality.

With all Victorian households to eventually receive four waste and recycling streams, including separate collections for glass, food organics and garden organics (FOGO), mixed recyclables and household rubbish, Greater Shepparton will commence its purple bin collection service in March 2024.

Tree maintenance makes Council’s agenda

TREE growth rates across Greater Shepparton have increased significantly of late due to the warm conditions. This, coupled with the long, wet winter and floods have resulted in delays to Council’s pruning program.

To address this, Council says it has increased resources to get the program back on track and on schedule.

Director of infrastructure, Gary Randhawa, thanked the community for their patience.

“We apologise for the delay in getting the trees pruned and maintained across the region. The recent weather and associated emergencies have resulted in delays, while ideal growing conditions has increased tree growth significantly,” he said.

“The impact of the floods followed by the Tatura storm that hit late in December has seen Council resources stretched to

deal with these emergencies. There is a lot of maintenance that needs to be done around the region and we have increased the available resources in our Tree Department to get the program back on track.

“Council officers will be prioritising the most urgent tree work. If you see staff pruning across Greater Shepparton please follow any temporary speed limits and signage in place. We thank the community for their patience during this time.”

For more information, contact Council on (03) 5832 9700.

KIALLA AND TATURA... are now transitioning their kerbside collection to weekly green bin pick-up and fortnightly red bin pick-up in accordance with the Victorian Government’s Recycling Victoria Policy, which aims to divert 80 percent of waste from landfill by 2030.

Photo: The Adviser

Last chance to nab the block of your dreams

LAND will soon be scarce across Greater Shepparton with the very last blocks in three premium estates available, albeit not for long.

If you are considering buying a plot in the future, even if you’re not immediately ready to build, it’s highly recommended you register your interest to avoid missing out. Once the limited, currently available land is sold, it will be quite some time until further developments come to fruition.

Located in this highly sought after North Shepparton area, the Vines is only a short walk to the Shepparton Sports Precinct and shopping centre and a short drive to schools and GV Health. The Vines offers generous block sizes, energy efficiently orientated with all the benefits of easy access to northern and central Shepparton, with the last blocks left starting from $280k.

Featuring generous lots sizes, open spaces and in proximity to the city centre, The North Quarter has been meticulously master planned to offer the best in connected community living. Stage 1 is already sold out, with stage 2 almost sold out, and only a few lots remaining.

If South Shepparton is your preference, there is an exclusive Sanctuary Park release, with prices from $275k. The Bolzonello release offers blocks from 720m2 through to 935m2 but this opportunity won’t last long with many already registering their interest. Characterised by tree lined streets, picturesque views integrated with surrounding landscapes and an informal network of parklands, it also incorporates a two-metre-wide walking and bicycle path through Sanctuary Drive, joining Archer Road and Melbourne Road.

“After these are all sold, it will be quite a

REGISTER YOUR INTEREST...If you are considering buying a plot in the future, even if you’re not immediately ready to build, it’s highly recommended you register your interest with Gagliardi Scott to avoid missing out. Pictured is Gagliardi Scott Real Estate Director, Rocky Gagliardi. Photo: Stephanie Holliday

while before blocks of a similar size will be available,” said Gagliardi Scott Real Estate director Rocky Gagliardi.

“Registering one’s interest now is imperative, some won’t title for a while so there’s no pressure to start building immediately, but if you are thinking of building in the next few years, this is your chance to get your foot in the door.”

To register your interest and for further information, drop into Gagliardi Scott Real

Demand for the regions persists

POPULATION pressure in regional centres has continued to drive growth inland and further from cities, according to the latest Regional Movers Index by the Commonwealth Bank and Regional Australia Institute.

13 regional local government areas (LGAs) around the country recorded a jump in net internal migration levels of over 100 percent through 2022 – with regional Queensland and Victoria taking the largest share of city movers, according to the December quarter Regional Movers Index.

Net internal migration is a key driver of change in a region’s total population. It calculates the number of people from outside of the region (but still within Australia) moving in, less

the number of local people leaving that region for another (within Australia).

The Regional Movers Index is a partnership between Commonwealth Bank and the Regional Australia Institute (RAI) which analyses the quarterly and annual trends in people moving to and from Australia’s regional areas. The December quarter data shows that national net internal migration to the regions is still up 45 percent on prepandemic levels.

Commonwealth Bank executive general manager for regional and agribusiness banking, Paul Fowler, said there was a slight drop of just 0.8 percent in the number of people moving from cities to regional towns in the December

For

quarter, well below the typical rate of around 8 per cent normally experienced over the holiday season period.

“This confirms that regional hubs are continuing to attract thousands of metro movers,” Mr Fowler said.

“Many are attracted by the opportunities that our thriving regional economies present. While it’s been a difficult year for many businesses who have faced significant challenges, including labour shortages and inflationary pressures, industries such as healthcare, manufacturing and agriculture are growing strongly, and regional businesses are investing more to sustain increasing demand for their products and services.”

Estate at 182 High Street, call 5831 1800 or visit www.gagliardiscott.com.au.

available land, check out ther special double page spread on pages 8+9.

Call into National Tiles and Carpet Call for floor coverings and more

WITH an overwhelming number of styles, materials and finishes available on the market to decorate and freshen up your home, it is easy to become inundated with ideas.

When you’ve been in the industry for more than 15 years, you develop a keen understanding of your products, your customers and what makes a home pop. With such experience, the knowledgeable team at National Tiles and Carpet Call Shepparton are your one-stop flooring and wall covering destination when it comes to renovating or building your dream home.

Carpet Call and National Tiles

Shepparton owner and store manager, Caroline Mohi said, “We offer free on-site measure and quotes for your convenience and our team can help you in-store to find the perfect flooring or window covering for your home.”

Stocking a huge range of flooring options including tiles, timber, laminate, carpet and vinyl, all your flooring needs will be covered. They also have a large selection of blinds, shutters and wall coverings.

Updating your wall, window or floor furnishings is about more than just aesthetics though. Simple improvements can assist with heating your home thereby

saving you money, reduce allergens and other nasties, while adding value to your home.

If you’re in the market for new flooring,

What to plant in Autumn

AUTUMN is the time when you prepare your garden for a bountiful spring. Think about which winter vegetables you'd like and the herbs that will complement the delicious dishes you'll be able to make with your homegrown garden produce.

In autumn, it's also time to plan which flower bulbs and shrubs you can plant to get that splash of colour in the spring. It is time to plant vegetable seedlings and

any seed vegetables that you want to harvest from your garden in a few months.

Many green leafy vegetables grow best when planted in cooler weather.

• In March, you can start by planting carrots, leek, rocket, and bok choy.

Early autumn is the best time for brassica vegetables like broccoli, kale and cauliflower.

In mid-autumn, you can plant beetroot, brussel sprouts,

spinach and radish.

As autumn ends in May, it's time to plant peas, sweet peas, garlic and Jerusalem artichoke. Brassica vegetables like broccoli and cauliflower prefer plenty of nitrogen. Using rich compost or manure helps these seedlings grow into strong and healthy plants. Another top gardeners' tip is to use eggshell in the garden to deter pests like snails, caterpillars, and slugs from attacking the seedlings.

EXPERTS IN THE TRADE... The knowledgeable team at National Tiles and Carpet Call Shepparton are your one-stop flooring and wall covering destination when it comes to renovating or building your dream home. Pictured back row from left is Leigh, Lee and David. Front row from left is Kerry and Caroline.

Photo: Deanne Jeffers

FOR SALE

THE NORTH QUARTER STAGE 2A & 2B

Featuring generous lots sizes, open spaces and close proximity to the city centre, GV Health, great schools and the sporting precincts, this estate has been meticulously master planned to offer the very best in connected community living.

SANCTUARY PARKSTAGES 7A & 7B

Characterised by tree lined streets, picturesque views integrated with surrounding landscapes and an informal network of parklands, it also incorporates a two metre wide walking and bicycle path through Sanctuary Drive joining Archer Road and Melbourne Road.

THE NOOK

The Nook located in South East Shepparton presents an opportunity to purchase an affordable block of land just 5kms from the centre of town.

Take the guesswork out of flooring solutions

CRUMBS, pet hair, mud and dust – the floor in your home sees a lot over its lifetime.

Outdated, deteriorating floors can look unappealing, but there are other benefits of updating old floors such as saving time when cleaning and saving you money by helping to insulate your home. Old floors can also harbour nasties like mould, mildew and dust mites, which can affect people with allergies or poor immune systems.

If you’re renovating, building a brandnew home, or just looking to update floor coverings in your home, such a crucial

decision is best aided by industry experts with over 40 years’ experience.

Steve Cohen, owner of Shepparton Flooring Xtra, said it is as easy as popping into the showroom or giving them a call to arrange a free measure and quote in the home or business.

“We offer free and convenient in-home or commercial consultations, where we can bring our ‘Flooring Xtra’ showroom to you to help make your selection. We then provide you with an indicative quote which includes supply and installation,” said Steve.

“Otherwise just come in and see us in

store, the options are limitless,” he added.

Located at 66 Benalla Road Shepparton the Flooring Xtra staff are both friendly and knowledgeable and can help with all your queries on any domestic or commercial

An oasis in your very own home

WHO doesn’t dream of having their own, personal oasis; a secluded place of beauty, where the troubles of the world are brushed away by the cool calm of greenery and the harmonious trickling of fresh, fountain water?

Taking up little space, and often hidden away, a courtyard is the perfect place to create your own mini slice of heaven; an ideal setting to relax with family and entertain friends.

Before beginning your courtyard makeover, however, there are a few key things to consider:

Drainage: Courtyards are predominately hard landscaped areas, and it is a good idea to think about using plant containers if drainage is poor, resulting in potential flooding and water wastage.

Shade: Courtyards are usually bordered by high walls,

restricting sunlight for healthy plant growth. If this is a problem, choose shade tolerant plants or use pots on wheels that can easily be relocated.

Heat: Poor ventilation in paved courtyards may result in a buildup of heat and while plants work to cool the space, they will require more water in doing so. An efficient water system will ensure the longevity of plants and save your hip-pocket in the long run.

Shallow soil: Build up garden beds if the soil depth is less than 50cm before hitting clay, plants cannot survive if planted in clay.

Space: Make the most of both your horizontal and vertical spaces, while considering scented creepers on a trellis, fruit trees on a wall and strawberries in a hanging basket. Pots can be arranged on steps, and benches while herb pots can bring tantalizing fragrances.

you need is

THERE ARE SO MANY BENEFITS IN UPDATING YOUR CARPET...Old floors can harbour nasties like mould, mildew and dust mites, but with expert advise from Shepparton Flooring Xtra, you can easily get the assistance you need to revitalise your floor coverings. Steve Cohen (above) and his friendly team are ready to arrange a measure and quote for your home or business.

requirements.

For more information on Shepparton Flooring Xtra where flooring choices are made easy, call Steve or Sandra on (03) 5821 0300.

is a little oasis all your own in a courtyard garden. With a little forethought and creativity, a courtyard garden can offer an ideal setting to relax with family and entertain friends. Photo:Supplied

TAKING LITTLE SPACE AND OFTEN HIDDEN AWAY...

Photo: The Adviser 290 Benalla Road, Shepparton

A helping hand with your home loan

Whether you’re looking to build a new home or buy an existing one, getting the right home loan is essential. As well as a competitive interest rate and prompt application turnaround times, the make-orbreak factor is personalised service from the financial institution you choose.

With experienced lenders and branches right across the Goulburn Valley, Murray and North-East regions, personalised service to borrowers is a hallmark of GMCU, one of our best-loved credit unions.

According to Rob Chaston, Credit Manager at GMCU, “When it’s the biggest investment of your life, you want to be dealing with the same friendly face as you navigate it all.”

“Young people in particular are generally happy to do their everyday banking online or on the app. But when it comes to their first mortgage, they’re looking for a real-life person to help guide them through the borrowing process.”

“Being a home-grown credit union, the lending decisions are made locally by staff who live, work and are involved in our local communities,” said Rob.

EXPERT CARE…

It’s imperative to have someone in your corner who understands your needs and the intricacies of our local region when it comes to home lending. Pictured is GMCU credit manager, Robert Chaston. Photo: Kelly Carmody

In addition to their focus on delivering excellent personal service, GMCU also aims to deliver great value loan offers designed to make your financial goals more achievable.

Whether you’re a first time home owner, looking to build your dream home, or planning for your next investment opportunity, your local GMCU team invites you to come in and discuss your needs.

“We’re seeing high demand from first home buyers in the Shepparton area, with a lot of new housing stock under construction or coming on the market. If you’re looking to buy or build, come and have an obligationfree chat to us about what you need, either in one of our branches, or over the phone.”

Reducing waste starts at home

By Deanne Jeffers

WITH changes to kerbside collection being rolled out, residents may be wondering how they will manage to keep on top of waste once it is collected less frequently.

What’s better than reusing or recycling an item? Avoiding it in the first place. At the checkout or before bringing any item home, ask yourself, do you really need it? If the answer is no, then avoid it altogether.

Autumn lawn care

AS the days cool, the leaves turn and the golden hue of autumn brightens the shorter days, it’s time to think about revitalising your lawns after the ravages of summer.

Autumn and spring are the two critical times of the year to fertilise your lawn and will green them up ahead of winter, building protection against the extreme cold and frost.

Although counter-intuitive, watering your lawn this time of year is also a must, as windy conditions can dry your lawn out just as much as the heat.

While your lawn stores energy for winter, mowing will become less frequent, however, it is prudent to treat your lawns with a quality weedkiller in autumn as bindiis grow and spread in readiness for flowering in summer, dropping nasty prickles.

Shopping responsibly and in particular, minimising single-used items, will make a significant impact on the amount of waste your home produces. Sustainable shopping includes consideration of the way your food and other purchases are packaged.

According to Sustainability Victoria, Australians throw away around 1.9M tonnes of packaging each year – enough to fill the Melbourne Cricket Ground nine times over.

Households can avoid unessential packaging by growing their own food, cooking at home, using reusable packaging where possible, making a shopping list to reduce food and financial

IT IS JUST SO IMPORTANT... to recycle, and as changes to kerbside collection are being rolled out, it is now more important than ever to get ahead of all the tricks to minimise your wastage. Photo: Supplied

waste, choosing items with little or no packaging, and saying no to straws and plastic bags.

For more sustainability tips, visit www. sustainability.vic.gov.au

Photo:

Wallpaper is back in style

By Stephanie Holliday

ONCE deemed daggy and old-fashioned, wallpaper is back and better than ever.

Wallpaper can add textural interest to a room and depth, more so than paint on its own.

The options are endless, with metallic accents and patterns possible by going down that route for wall decoration.

While you can DIY of course, calling in the professionals to install your wallpaper will save you time and frustration.

Another popular option that has gained recent traction is wall decals. Rooms can be transformed by using these and they allow for easy removal when moving home or when you tire of them.

WALLPAPER REIMAGINED...Wallpaper is back and better than ever. Wallpaper can add textural interest to a room and depth, more so than paint on its own. The options are endless, with metallic accents and patterns possible by going down that route for wall decoration. Photo: Supplied

It is best to source these decals from companies that specialise in designing and producing them, as the wall decals commonly found in retail chains frustratingly stick to surfaces poorly and peel off.

Experiment with floral designs, faux marble, stripes and even mono-coloured pattern options that look similar to pressed metal.

Painting the fence is not as easy as it seems

AUTUMN is the perfect time to get the outside jobs done while the weather cools ahead of winter.

Although it may not be the task you’d most like to spend your weekends doing, painting your tired-looking wooden fence will certainly make your house and garden look a whole lot better.

But before you roll up your sleeves and head to the hardware store, here are a few handy tips to get you started:

• Check the condition of your fence for any rot, damage or termite infestation. Replace any sections that need it and ensure your supporting posts are sturdy. Make sure you buy a quality paint brush; cheap ones tend to leave bristles on the

wood surface as you paint.

Purchasing a quality paint will also last longer, particularly if it is an exterior UVinhibiting paint.

• Check the weather forecast before you start, ensuring that there is no rain insight for at least 48 hours, there is nothing worse than having your hard work ruined by a downpour.

Mow the lawn and trim the grass that’s at the base of the fence, clear away cobwebs and dirt and use a drop cloth to protect the surrounds as you paint. Scrape away or use a power wash to remove layers of peeling paint and allow to dry thoroughly before sandpapering for a perfect, smooth finish.

After priming the wood and allowing it

to fully dry, begin to paint following the grain of the wood for an optimal finish. A rule of thumb in painting fences is

THE PERFECT TIME TO GET IT DONE...

Autumn is the perfect time to get jobs, like painting the fence, done as the weather cools ahead of winter. With a few tried and true tips, revitalising your fence with a touch of paint can be quick and easy.

to always use vertical strokes for vertical panels and horizontal strokes for horizontal panels.

ELEGANT, COMFORTABLE & BEAUTIFUL FLOOR COVERINGS

Photo: Supplied

Elegant, comfortable and beautifully tactile, carpet is a timeless option for any home whether your look is classic or more fashion-forward. Renowned for its noise-reducing and insulating qualities, today’s carpet lets you create a space that's practical without compromising on style.