Aaron Cordy
Aged care reforms are coming Are you ready?
AGED care is changing this year. To understand the impacts and how families can prepare, we spoke with Accredited Aged Care Professional Myles Martin from OzPlan Financial Services at MB+M.
What should I know about the upcoming aged care reforms?
These changes – starting July 1 – aim to make aged care more transparent and personalised, but they also bring new challenges. Families need to understand how costs are structured and how care plans are tailored. Without proper planning and advice, the financial and emotional strain can be overwhelming.
Why is it important to prepare now?
Time is of the essence. If families wait until care is urgently needed, they may face limited options and rushed decisions. By planning ahead, you can ensure loved ones get the care they deserve while avoiding financial surprises.
PROFESSIONAL ADVICE… Aged care is set to be overhauled this year. We spoke to accredited aged care professional Myles Martin from OzPlan Financial Services at MB+M to understand the impact and how people can prepare themselves or someone they love if considering aged care. Photo: Supplied
While the upcoming reforms may impact costs and care options, rushing into aged care without a well-thought-out plan isn’t recommended
Myles Martin, OzPlan Financial Services at MB+M
How can families start preparing?
The first step is understanding your financial position and how government support fits into your plan. We specialise in creating tailored strategies to help families. It’s not just about money—it’s about peace of mind.
Should we quickly try to enter aged care before July 1?
While the upcoming reforms may impact costs and care options, rushing into aged care without a well-thought-out plan isn’t recommended. Every family’s situation is unique, and decisions should be based on care needs, financial planning, and long-term goals. Speaking with a financial advisor is crucial to understand the implications of these changes and ensure you make the right choice for your loved ones.
If you require further information, please visit MB+M at 120 Nixon Street, call 5821 9177 or email mbmozplan@mbmgroup.com.au
This column contains general advice only and does not take into account the needs, objectives and situation of any individual. You should consult with a licensed financial advisor and consider obtaining personal financial advice prior to making any decisions about aged care.
Rediscover your wellbeing
AS someone who has walked the path, Wendy Gordon understands the importance of finding tailored solutions for your unique needs. A women’s health and certified menopause practitioner, Wendy’s background in paramedicine, nursing, and complementary medicine provides her with an extensive range of options to support you.
Through her business, Your Health Naturally, Wendy offers naturopathy/ nutrition, menopause support, and NeuroLinguistic Programming (NLP) as a master practitioner. She also provides lymphatic massage, oncology support, infrared/light therapy sauna, pneumatic compression, and exercise recovery services.
Whether you're recovering from an illness, surgery, or other ailment, or simply
looking to live your best life, contact Wendy for personalised guidance and support. You don’t have to be unwell or fit to visit or benefit from these services.
Your Health Naturally is located at Shop 10 in the Wyndham Mall Walk, 294 Wyndham Street Shepparton. To learn more, visit www.yourhealthnaturally.com. au or call Wendy on 0418 902 066.
Rocking good time
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OLD time Rock n’ Roll dance is a fun way to stay fit and keep socially active. Cool Cat Rockers Shepparton meets Tuesdays from 6.45pm at Kialla Central Hall, 135 Central Kialla Road, Kialla.
There is no experience needed to begin, and if you make a bit of a goose of yourself it probably means you are having more fun.
Members join a social calendar full fun gatherings around the district where you can test your skills or just have fun and mix with other Rock n’ Roll dancers.
To find out more about this brilliant activity call Stuart on 0408535610 or
For our community, by our community. Three outstanding village locations: Shepparton, Kialla Lakes, Mooroopna
Find out more: www.sheppvillages.com.au Or call: (03) 5832 0800 – 9am to 5pm
At Goulburn Valley Hearing Clinic
We understand the impact a hearing loss can have on your life. You may feel embarrassed at missing parts of conversations. Or feel frustrated trying to hear on the phone or in background noise. Or feel you are missing out at family gatherings.
Come and talk to us about how we can help you hear better. Call us on 5821 6600 to make an appointment
HEALTH... Feeling amazing on your own may be challenging, especially if you experience pain or poor health. Wendy Gordon of Your Health Naturally is a women’s health and certified menopause practitioner and lymphatic therapist who is here to help. Photo: Supplied
THE greens at Tatura were alive with competition and community spirit on Wednesday, February 5, as the Goulburn Valley Over 60’s Bowling Day brought together 96 bowlers for a fantastic day of sport and generosity. More than just a friendly match, the event successfully raised $2,113 to support Goulburn Valley Hospice, ensuring continued care for individuals and families facing life-limiting illnesses.
With perfect weather and a strong turnout, participants embraced the camaraderie of the game, knowing their efforts were making a real impact. The funds raised will go toward purchasing an oxygen concentrator, a vital piece of equipment that GV Hospice will loan to a patient in need.
Event organiser Warren Snow, secretary of the Over 60’s, expressed his gratitude for the support of the participants, volunteers and local businesses who helped make this day a memorable success.
"It’s truly humbling to see the community come together for such an important cause. The generosity of everyone involved will
make a real difference to the families supported by GV Hospice,” Warren said.
GV Hospice CEO Wendy Ross, highlighted the increasing demand for their services, which operate 24/7, free of charge.
“We are caring for more people with life-limiting illnesses than ever before. Unfortunately, the funding we receive doesn’t cover the costs of providing a 24hour, seven-day-a-week free service,” she said.
“Donations from the community such as this are really appreciated as it allows us to provide quality care to increasing numbers in our community.”
WORTHY CAUSE... 96 bowlers took part in the Goulburn Valley Over 60’s Bowling Day, raising over $2k for GV Hospice. Pictured are GV Hospice staff Brit Selva, Tracey Kerr, Rachael Kubeil and Annie Jorgensen with Over 60’s Bowls President Graham and Secretary Warren. Photo: Supplied
Making mealtime better at Maculata Place
Maggie Beer Foundation shares recipe for success
THE benefits of clean, tasty food that nourishes both the body and the senses cannot be overstated. Yet, in many aged care settings, factors like nutrition, texture, and individual preferences are often overlooked.
Shepparton Villages’ Maculata Place residential village has been selected to participate in the Maggie Beer Foundation’s Trainer Mentor Program, one of 120 facilities chosen this year from thousands of applicants.
The program’s mission is to enhance the quality of life for residents through improved food experiences. Over the next 12 months, aged care homes are paired with expert Foundation Chef Trainers who provide tailored mentoring and support to improve food quality and dining experiences.
Celebrity chef Michael Nam has been paired with Shepparton Villages, where he will mentor staff and meet with residents to serve flavourful meals and design dining experiences that excite and engage them.
Veronica Jamison, CEO of Shepparton Villages, expressed her excitement. "I just thought, we're blessed. That's how I felt. I just thought, Shepparton Villages is really blessed. Maculata Place is really blessed that we can be involved in this program."
With over 400,000 meals prepared annually, Veronica emphasised the importance of ensuring all residents enjoy their meals. “We want everybody to have something nice to eat every day,” Veronica said. “We’re
Maculata Place is really blessed that we can be involved in this program
Veronica Jamison CEO of Shepparton Villages
talking about people’s homes here.”
Shepparton Villages sees this program as an opportunity to lead the way in nutrition, improve the quality of life for residents, and share insights with the wider Shepparton community.
“We’re always striving to improve,” Veronica said. “The job is never done in aged care. We may be in a
good place now, but if more people enjoy our food, that’s a win.”
Applications are now open for the 2026 Trainer Mentor Program, with applications closing March 14. To learn more about the program and how it is transforming meal time in aged care across Australia, go to maggiebeerfoundation.org.au
Want to change the flooring before you move in?
At Choices Flooring Shepparton, we know that good interior decorating starts from the floor up.
Flooring Shepparton, we know that good interior decorating starts from the floor up.
With the latest designs in vinyl, carpet and tiles, as well as window furnishings including blinds, curtains and outdoor awnings, we have the perfect solution for every home and budget. Downsizing?
With the latest designs in carpet, timber, luxury vinyl, rugs and window furnishings, we have the perfect decorating solution for every home and budget.
With the latest designs in carpet, timber, luxury vinyl, tiles, rugs and window furnishings, we have the perfect decorating solution for every home and budget.
To find the floor you’ve been searching for, visit our showroom today.
To find the floor you’ve been searching for, visit our showroom today.
To find the floor you’ve been searching for, visit our showroom today.
Choices Flooring Shepparton 186 High Street, Shepparton VIC 3630 Call 03 5822 2777
CULINARY COURSE... Shepparton Villages’ Maculata Place has been selected to take part in the Maggie Beer Foundation’s Trainer Mentor Program. The program’s mission? To enhance the quality of life for elderly residents through improved food experiences. Pictured are Shepparton Villages resident Jill Fulhan and catering manager Raelene Sweet, Michael Nam from the Maggie Beer Foundation, Shepparton Villages CEO Veronica Jamison and resident Joan Bottomley. Photo: Deanne Jeffers
Better mobility for Greater Shepparton: Share your ideas
INPUT SOUGHT... Have your say on the future of mobility and road safety in Greater Shepparton! The Council is seeking community feedback on its draft strategy and action plan. This is your chance to help shape a safer and more accessible transport network for everyone.
HOW safe are our roads? How easily can you get around Greater Shepparton? Your answers matter. The Greater Shepparton City Council is seeking community feedback on its draft Mobility and Road Safety Strategy and Action Plan, and your input will directly shape the future of local transport.
The plan outlines road safety challenges, improvement opportunities, and strategies to enhance mobility and improve safety. Residents can review the draft and provide feedback via the Shaping Greater Shepp website or contact Council’s Assets and Engineering team on (03) 5832 9700 or council@shepparton.vic.gov.au.
Mayor, Councillor Shane Sali said community input is vital in shaping a safer, more accessible transport network.
“Council’s vision is to ensure that anyone who travels throughout Greater Shepparton, arrives at their destination safely,” he said. “Aligned with the National Road Safety Strategy and Victorian Road Safety Strategy, Council’s goal is to achieve zero fatalities and serious injuries by 2050, with an interim target of halving road deaths by 2030.”
The strategy follows the Safe System approach—Safer Roads, Safer Speeds, Safer Vehicles, Safer Road Users and promotes evidence-based, sustainable transport solutions.
Initial consultation in 2024 included workshops and a public survey, identifying key concerns such as speed compliance, road conditions, and the lack of accessible parking in activity centres, which have been included in the draft plan.
Feedback closes midnight, Monday, March 3, 2025. The final strategy will be presented for adoption in April.
To read the draft Mobility and Road Safety Strategy and Action Plan 20252029 and to have your say, visit the Shaping Greater Shepp website: https:// shaping.greatershepparton.com.au/ mobility-and-road-safety-strategy
Photo: The Adviser
AWARDED... Pictured with Greater Shepparton City Council Mayor Shane Sali (centre) are award recipients at the Greater Shepparton 2025 Australia Day Awards, from left: Chelsie Nicholson representing Shepparton parkrun, Citizen of the Year Shane O’Sullivan, Shepparton Senior Citizen of the Year Jeanette Doherty, Greater Shepparton and Tatura Senior Citizen of the Year Vince Vincitorio, Senior Sports Person of the Year Myles Higgins, Junior Sports Person of the Year
Celebrating their contributions
EACH year the Greater Shepparton Australia Day Awards recognises the contributions and efforts of many special individuals that enrich our region. A particular highlight of the awards is the recognition of our dedicated senior citizens, who have often devoted a lifetime to bettering their communities.
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Vince Vincitorio, Greater Shepparton's Senior Citizen of the Year, arrived from Italy in 1952. His strong community values, instilled from childhood, led him to a life of service. At 15, he became an interpreter, helping Italian immigrants find work. He served with the Tatura Fire Brigade and RSL, trained the Tatura Football Netball Club for 15 years (earning life membership), and supported local football leagues. A dedicated Lions Club member, he led fundraising efforts and built furniture for hospital patients. For 13 years, he was a breakfast announcer at One FM 98.5 (life member) and formed "The Larrakins" to entertain seniors and raise funds for charities. His and Rhonda's open gardens also supported numerous causes. Vince was also Tatura's Senior Citizen of the Year.
Multi-discipline cyclist Myles Higgins, Greater Shepparton's Senior Sports Person of the Year, excels in road, time trial, cyclo-cross, gravel, marathon MTB,
and Olympic cross country events at all levels. A member of several local cycling clubs, he contributes to race organization and maintenance. His achievements include national and international titles in MTB downhill, cross country and cyclo-cross, including a 1992 National Championship and a 2019 Oceania Continental Championship. A Vietnam Veteran and retired engineer, he supports school camps with bike maintenance programs and has cycled extensively through outback Australia. Myles inspires others to stay active and is also involved with the Australian Native Bonsai Club and Royal Flying Doctor Service fundraising. In addition to these overall awards, Jeanette Doherty was Shepparton’s Senior Citizen of the Year, talented musician Graeme Brewer was honoured as Mooroopna’s Senior Citizen of the Year, Andrew Sands at Dookie, and passionate cricketer Alex Ranson was Tatura’s Senior Sports Person of the Year for 2025.
Understanding wills and estates
Navigating legalities associated with wills and estates can be tricky. We spoke with Rebecca Healy from Nevin Lenne Gross barristers and solicitors to find out more.
What are the key elements of a legally valid will in Australia?
There are six key parts to ensure a will is legally valid and can be admitted to probate, thereby giving effect to the testator’s wishes regarding the distribution of their estate after death.
1. Writing and Signature: The will must be in writing and signed by the testator (the person making the will) or by another person in the presence of and at the direction of the testator. The signature must be made with the intention of executing the will.
2. Witnesses: The testator’s signature must be made or acknowledged in the presence of at least two witnesses who are present at the same time. These witnesses must also attest and sign the will in the presence of the testator, although not necessarily in the presence of each other.
3. Intention: The testator must have the intention that the document will take effect as their will at the time of signing. This includes the intention to make a
revocable disposition of their property effective upon death.
4. Age and Capacity: While certain exemptions exist, generally the testator must be at least 18 years old and have the mental capacity to understand the nature and effect of the will.
5. Compliance with Formalities: The will must comply with the formal requirements set out in the relevant state or territory legislation. This includes specific provisions for the execution of wills, such as the use of electronic signatures and remote witnessing procedures introduced during the COVID-19 pandemic.
6. Alterations: Any alterations made to the will after its execution must also comply with the formal requirements, including being signed and witnessed in the same manner as the original will.
What happens if someone dies without a will in Australia?
When someone dies without a will in Australia, they are said to die intestate. The distribution of their estate is governed by intestacy laws, which vary by jurisdiction (each state).
The surviving spouse may not take the whole estate if there are surviving children, parents, siblings, or children
of siblings, unless the estate’s value is below a prescribed amount. Some jurisdictions also give the surviving spouse special rights to the matrimonial home or household chattels.
It is critical for this reason to make a Will, even if you believe “well I don’t own anything” or “my affairs are simple, and everything will just go to my partner or my children”. That is simply not necessarily the case.
What are common mistakes people make when drafting a will, and how can someone ensure their will is difficult to challenge?
Common mistakes people make when drafting a will in Victoria include failing to comply with formal requirements, such as proper execution and witnessing, and not clearly expressing their intentions or obtaining legal advice when considering drafting their Wills to ensure that their wishes are legally possible to draft and enforce in Estate administration.
Another common mistake is not considering the testator’s testamentary capacity and ensuring they understand and approve the contents of the will. The presumption of testamentary
capacity arises when a will is rational on its face and duly executed, but this can be challenged if there are suspicious circumstances. Therefore, it is essential to ensure the testator is of sound mind and fully comprehends the will’s contents.
Ensuring that the will is clear, precise, and free from errors is also important. Any ambiguities or mistakes in the will can lead to challenges and potential litigation. Therefore, it is crucial to obtain specialist advice, review the will thoroughly and rectify any errors before execution.
In relation to preventing a further provision claim against your Estate, it is important to obtain considered legal advice as to your specific circumstances.
Disclaimer: This content can only be used for the purpose of this feature and our advertising. The content cannot be used or relied upon in the future without our consent and without checking that the content and advice is up to date and valid.
Wills, Enduring Powers of Attorney & Appointment of Medical Treatment Decision Makers
Estate planning is the critical process of making formal plans about what happens to you and your estate, in the event you become incapacitated or die.
Your Will should include everything you own; for example, real estate, vehicles, bank accounts, investments, shares, life insurance and even personal possessions like jewellery or artwork.
It is important to make decisions yourself about what will happen to your assets when you die or who you will appoint as your Enduring Power of Attorney or Appointment of Medical Treatment Decision maker to manage your financial, personal and medical decisions if you become incapacitated and unable to make those decisions yourself.
At Nevin Lenne Gross, our lawyers will provide you with estate planning advice and assistance taking into account your personal circumstances and your wishes. We ensure you are aware of all the processes and options available to you to give you peace of mind for the future.
To discuss this matter on a no obligation basis, please contact:
03 5822 1436
361 Wyndham St, Shepparton nlgsolicitors.com.au
LEGAL KNOW-HOW... Rebecca Healy from Nevin Lenne Gross answers common questions about wills and estates. Photo: Supplied
Commune with nature at Mooroopna Library
BIRD song reaches each ear a little differently, but have you ever wondered what all that warbling was about? Back in the Goulburn Valley by popular demand, author and nature sound recordist, Andrew Skeoch will visit the Mooroopna Library on Thursday, March 6 at 6pm, with an enlightening discussion of how to identify bird species by call and interpret their communications.
Andrew will guide the audience into hearing the languages of nature, developing auditory awareness, identifying species by ear, and recognising behaviours and repertoire. Andrew’s presentation will be accompanied by
Andrew will guide the audience into hearing the languages of nature, developing auditory awareness, identifying species by ear, and recognising behaviours and repertoire
vibrant recordings and spectrogram analysis that show the beauty of birdsong. With insights into how our ecosystems work and how we can relate to them, you will hear the environment around you in an entirely new way.
Andrew’s label Listening Earth has published over one hundred recordings featuring habitats from most continents, which allow listeners to immerse themselves in soundscapes. His recordings have contributed to films, including Peter
Our region wouldn’t be what it is without the hard work of our senior citizens!
If you’re in Shepparton, drop by my office to pick up a copy of the Age Pension Guide. It’s packed with useful info on:
Gabriel's soundtrack to Phillip Noyce's Rabbit Proof Fence, Disney's 2016 remake of The Jungle Book, and Force of Nature with Eric Bana.
Andrew visited Goulburn Valley Libraries last year and was so popular that a return visit was needed. You can hear Andrew speak at the Mooroopna Library on Thursday, March 6 at 6pm.
Bookings are preferred and can be made on the Goulburn Valley Libraries website under the events tab, by emailing mooroopna@gvlibraries.com or calling 1300 374 765.
Andrew will have copies of his book Deep Listening to Nature available to purchase at the event.
Libraries Change Lives.
love coming here because
“I
I’ve just recently retired and it gives you a nice social outlet.”
Age Pension
Income and Asset Tests
Care Options
- Karen
Alternatively, contact my office and I can post you a copy.
Health Care and Concession Cards
“It’s really nice to just come in and feel like you belong and you’ve got that socialness that brings you out of the house and gives you confidence to go out and do more things.”
- Mina
AUTHOR TALK... Andrew Skeoch will visit the Mooroopna Library on Thursday, March 6. The author and nature sound recordist will teach audience members how to identify bird species by call and interpret their communications. Photo: Supplied
Your libraries are located in Avenel, Cobram, Euroa, Mooroopna, Nagambie, Nathalia, Numurkah, Shepparton, Tatura, Violet Town and Yarrawonga, and the Mobile Library visiting our smaller communities.
Authorised by S.Birrell, National Party of Australia, 426 Wyndham St, Shepparton VIC 3630
RUMBALARA
A COMMUNITY OF CARE & CULTURE
Rumbalara Aboriginal Cooperative is more than just a service provider, it is a vital part of the community, built on the strength, resilience, and traditions of First Nations people. For generations, Rumbalara has been a place of belonging, offering culturally safe support that uplifts and empowers our people. From health services to housing, justice programs and aged care, Rumbalara ensures that community members receive the support they need in a way that respects their culture and identity.
At the heart of our aged care services is the Rumbalara Elders Facility, a place where our Elders receive high-quality care while remaining connected to culture, community and Country. The facility is more than just a home, it is a place where Elders can share their knowledge, be surrounded by familiar faces, and receive care that honours their individual stories and traditions.
Honouring Our Elders with Quality Care
Our dedicated team works every day to provide compassionate, culturally safe care. This includes personal and clinical support, as well as activities that promote wellbeing and connection. A key focus this year has been cultural care planning, ensuring that each Elder’s journey is respected and recorded in a way that reflects their identity and heritage.
Our kitchen staff play a crucial role in this care, preparing healthy meals with love and dedication every single day of the year. Even during major upgrades to our kitchen facilities, they ensured that Elders never went without, demonstrating the resilience and commitment that define Rumbalara.
A recent Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission audit recognised the outstanding work being done at our facility, highlighting the dedication of our staff in an environment that never closes. Their commitment ensures our Elders receive not just care, but a sense of dignity and respect.
Investing in the Future of Aged Care
We have secured funding for programs like the Elder Care Support Program and a First Nations-specific aged care assessment initiative, allowing us to better meet the needs of our community. Additionally, capital funding has been allocated for facility upgrades, improving our kitchen and heating and cooling systems, to ensure a comfortable and culturally appropriate environment for our Elders.
A Legacy of Strength and Longevity
The impact of Rumbalara’s care is evident in the lives of our Elders. While the government estimates First Nations life expectancy at 71 years, we proudly support community members who are thriving well beyond this. Among those in our care, eight Elders are over 90, 40 are over 80, and 109 are over 70 which is testament to the power of culturally safe and community-driven care.
Advocating for Change and Better Support
Despite our successes, we continue to navigate challenges. Government aged care standards often lack flexibility, making it difficult to provide the personalised, culturally safe care our Elders deserve. Funding limitations also impact the level of support available.
We look forward to the introduction of the Support at Home Program in July this year, which we hope will offer a more suitable funding model for our people. This reform is an opportunity to improve access, provide better resources, and ensure faster assessments for those in need. As our community grows older, we will continue to advocate for a system that truly understands and respects the unique needs of First Nations Elders.
Join Us in Celebrating and Supporting Our Elders
Rumbalara is more than a service, it is a home, a family and a place where culture and care come together. To those who may not know about our work, we invite you to learn more, celebrate our Elders, and stand with us as we continue to provide the best possible care for our community.
Care without compromise
CHOOSING the right support to stay at home and continue doing what you love can feel overwhelming—but it doesn’t have to be.
Founded just four years ago, New Care Services quickly expanded to Shepparton and Bendigo to fill a gap in NDIS and Aged Care options in regional areas. Many people are unsure of their entitlements, how to access them, or feel they’re not getting enough from existing packages.
“Most people want to stay in their own homes as long as possible,” said CEO Philip Moran. “Home Care Packages make that possible, but many don’t realise they’re entitled to them. You’ve paid taxes all your life— this support is there for you, and we can help you
also prioritise culturally appropriate care, with tailored programs for Italian migrants and Indigenous communities.
“We take a very personal approach to your care needs by ensuring your case manager talks to you about the support you require to stay at home— whether that’s help with gardening, allied health services, shopping, or anything else,” said Mr. Moran.
With a low, transparent fee structure and a personalised approach, New Care Services provides
both private and government-funded support. Their Shepparton-based team includes two case managers who handle scheduling and serve as direct points of contact for their 60 clients.
If you have an existing package or have been allocated one, speak with New Care Services about how they can help you get more from your funding and live your best life.
Call New Care Services at 04911 549 36 to book an appointment or visit www.newcareservices.com. au for more information.
PUTTING YOU FIRST... New Care Services is a registered aged care and disability support service in Shepparton that prides itself
Pictured
manager Stephanie Lunn and CEO Philip Moran. Photo: Deanne Jeffers
Philip Moran, CEO, New Care Services
Benalla Tourist Park:
Over 50s living in Victoria’s picturesque Northeast
LOOKING to downsize to a quality, affordable, tree change lifestyle that provides the perfect balance of convenience to facilities, essential services and amenities within a peaceful semi-rural setting in Victoria’s picturesque Northeast? A Haven at Benalla Lifestyle is the perfect choice!
Haven at Benalla Lifestyle Village, within Benalla Tourist Park, offers a community-focused, pet-friendly and affordable lifestyle, allowing retirees to downsize their home while upsizing their lifestyle. It’s a wonderful retirement base for the over 50s who love history, art, food or motor racing and is conveniently located close to the shops, cafes, restaurants, galleries, historic walks and medical services of the Benalla township, while only a short drive to local wineries, the North East Silo Art Trail, Winton Wetlands and Winton Motor Raceway.
Benalla Tourist Park has added some lovely facilities to its residential village, Haven at Benalla, including a new community building, thriving community garden and off leash dog park as part of an exciting new expansion project. The village prides itself on its friendly
sense of community, facilities and the quality homes that their homeowners just love. A variety of brand-new homes are available at affordable prices, with one-bedroom homes from $179,000 and two-bedroom homes from $199,000 in Haven’s village expansion. “Off the plan” options are also available to allow you to customise your forever home if you see a particular site that you love.
Being a land-lease community, there are no entry or exit fees and no stamp duty applies when purchasing a home in the village. The simplified sale process and affordable site fees allows you more time (and money) for the important things in life!
Call the office on 03 5760 2000 for more information or to organise a tour, we can’t wait to show you the Haven at Benalla lifestyle!
BRAND NEW homes for sale in our friendly community*
Off the plan options available
No entry or exit fees
No stamp duty
Simplified sale process
Secure entry and exit gates
*Site fees apply.
Various village amenities included Peaceful semi-rural setting with an established, like minded community
Q&A with Nikki Lord
– Aged Care Coordinator Wyndham House Clinic
WITH the recognition of success of the program by the Commonwealth, Wyndham House Clinic have had an extension of the project for another three years and an increase in funding to grow the capabilities of its team. As part of this, Wyndham House Clinic have now recruited another full-time nurse and will also add administration support to the team.
Nikki Lord joins the program as of February 24, 2025.
Tell us about yourself Nikki?
I am an Endorsed Enrolled Nurse and have four years aged care experience, working in a small town Residential Aged Care Facility. I loved forming special bonds with each of the residents and their families.
I have been a part of the Wyndham House Clinic team for almost a year now in a hybrid role consisting of medical reception, practice nursing and working alongside Jacinta in the Aged Care Program. I love
I love being involved with resident care. I feel incredibly lucky to have been offered this role and I can’t wait to start
being involved with resident care. I feel incredibly lucky to have been offered this role and I can’t wait to start.
What’s new with the program?
While we continue with our current service supporting our GPs in the care of our older patients, we are evolving the program to a higher level through our relationships with the Residential Aged Care facilities.
Our team has grown, with four new doctors joining the practice, and all are ready and willing to support our ageing patients so they are accepting new patients in the facilities as well as in the clinic itself.
Our next stage is establishing formalised agreements with the Aged Care facilities and bringing everyone together to further strengthen our already established relationships and hopefully standardise practice from a GP perspective, over all sites.
We welcome new patients.
Enjoy whole life care
EXPANDED PROGRAM... The Aged Care Coordinator role is supported by funding from Murray Primary Health Network, designed to provide support to improve outcomes for people in aged care services. The program at Wyndham House Clinic has been expanded, with Nikkie Lord recently joining the team. Photo: Deanne Jeffers
Nikki Lord, Wyndham House Clinic
Ageing Well
STAYING in our own home for as long as possible is a goal many people have as they age. However, declining health or mobility can make everyday tasks challenging and staying home more stressful.
Senior Helpers Shepparton is a Home Care Package provider, specialising in compassionate and professional homecare services in the Shepparton region. Their goal is to support your desire to remain happy, healthy and independent in your own home.
Recognising that everyone’s needs are different, Senior Helpers Shepparton offers flexible care options. Whether you require 24/7 support or just a few hours of assistance a week, they are there to help.
Operations Manager Rajvir Singh holds a degree in Biomedical Science and has a background in problemsolving and communication. This experience allows him to understand client needs and deliver tailored solutions that enhance their well-being.
"We are proud to be part of the Senior Helpers family, a trusted name in homecare across Australia and beyond," says Rajvir. "Our Shepparton branch is committed to upholding the same high standards of care, offering families peace of mind knowing their loved ones are in capable, caring hands."
Senior Helpers Shepparton’s new office space at 2/228-234 High Street (across from the Goulburn Valley Hotel) opens to clients February 27, providing a central and convenient location to current and prospective clients.
To learn more about the care and support Senior Helper Shepparton can provide, visit www.seniorhelpers.com. au, email raulakh@seniorhelpers.com. au or call 0477 221 544.
Senior
Shepparton
Our
Our
ASSISTANCE... Senior Helpers Shepparton is opening a new, central office on High Street (across from the GV Hotel). Whether you require 24/7 support or just a few hours of assistance to remain happy, healthy and independent, Senior Helpers will work with you to deliver tailored solutions to support you. Photo: Deanne Jeffers
Is your hearing telling you something?
HEARING loss can sneak up on you, making everyday life a little more challenging. From struggling to hear in noisy environments to having to ask people to repeat themselves, the signs can be subtle. We spoke to Hearing Australia Shepparton to learn more about hearing loss, testing or treatment options.
How do I know if I have hearing loss?
If you often ask people to repeat themselves, struggle in noisy places, or turn up the TV volume, it might be time for a hearing check.
What happens during a hearing test?
It’s quick, painless, and informative. We present different tones through headphones to identify the softest level you can hear, all you need to do is listen and press the button when you hear a sound!
Are hearing aids big and noticeable?
Not anymore! Modern hearing aids are small, discreet, and high-tech, with Bluetooth and rechargeable batteries. Most people hardly notice them!
How much do hearing aids cost?
Prices vary, but there are affordable options for every budget. You may also qualify for government funding or private health rebates.
How do I book a hearing test?
Simply call us on 03 5823 7500, visit www.hearing. com.au, or drop by our centre at 205 Fryers Street, Shepparton. A quick check today could make a big difference in your hearing tomorrow!
If you often ask people to repeat themselves, struggle in noisy places, or turn up the TV volume, it might be time for a hearing check
Hearing Australia Shepparton 205 Fryers St, Shepparton VIC 3630
Location tip: Corner of Fryers and Harold Streets
HERE TO HELP... If you’ve noticed even subtle changes in your hearing, it is a good time to book a hearing test. A quick check can make a big difference in your hearing and your quality of life. Pictured are Sarah Cotterill and Rachael Fischera from the Hearing Australia Shepparton office. Photo: Deanne Jeffers