INSIDE:
Something for everyone at
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See page 18 for more information www.
.com.au
No 1:1232
WEDNESDAY JANUARY 7, 2015
STUNNING QUILTS ON DISPLAY
SNAP SHOTS FROM THE PAST page 6
page 10
READY FOR SCHOOL? Back to School feature
COMMUNITY CONNECT | page 6 Letters to the Editor | page 8 Free 7 Day TV Guide | page 22 Classifieds | pages 19-21 Sport Adviser | page 23 ADVERTISING HOTLINE: 5832 8900
pages 15-17
GET ACTIVE DURING SUMMER HOLIDAYS | Sport Adviser
page 23
Lives lost statewide
But local road behaviour improving WHILE most of us are settling into the working year as the festive season comes to an end, police are continuing the push for safe driving, after it was revealed four lives were lost across the state during the holiday period and 11 road accidents reported on our roads locally. The 11 accidents, which included three without injuries caused, seven where minor injuries were inflicted and one where serious injuries were inflicted took place in Shepparton (3), Mooroopna (3), Tatura (1), Merrigum (1), Murchison (1), Kialla (1), and just outside of Kyabram (1). Continued on page 14
SUCCESSFUL SALES… Post-Christmas sales have proven to be successful this year, with many retail outlets across the region breaking sales records. Pictured, Shepparton Chamber of Commerce and Industry President, Paul Lelliott. Photo: David Lee.
Post-Christmas sales break records Local bargain seekers score big savings By David Lee EXPECTATIONS of Boxing Day and end of year sales across the country were smashed as millions of bargain seekers across the nation flocked to score big savings, and Shepparton was no different.
While locally consumers seemed to ease into pre-Christmas sales, post-Christmas sales across the region, particularly in retail, broke records in some cases as tills rang and streets filled during shopping’s biggest sale period.
On Boxing Day alone, the National Retail Association (NRA) made early predictions that shoppers would spend more than $2B snapping up discounted items around the country but even their expectations were exceeded, with members recording the best result retailers have seen for five to six years. Continued on page 12
NEWS | WEATHER
Mercury soars as predictions remain hot REGION TO SWELTER… With a higher than average start to Summer weather, a developing El Niño is being blamed for the temperatures and is expected to see the dry and hot weather continue. Photo: Alicia Niglia.
By David Lee AS the city swelters through the hottest start to Summer since records began in Shepparton in 1996, the Bureau of Meteorology is warning residents the heat is not over yet, as the forecast for the remainder of Summer is expected to be dry and hot. Already this Summer Shepparton has been subjected to 23 days with the mercury soaring above 30 degrees, of which seven have been above 35 and two above 40. When comparing it to the same period during the previous year’s Summer, which saw just 18 days above 30 degrees, including six days above 35 and again two above 40, as well as a hotter than average outlook, the community is sure to feel the heat. Bureau of Meteorology Manager of Climate
Prediction Services, Dr Andrew Watkins said, “There will be no let up in the warmth, with the slight step toward drier and warmer conditions ahead. “The maximum median temperature between January and March shows that it is expected to be 29.6 degrees, which includes a maximum median temperature of 30.3 degrees for January and 30.1 degrees for February. “The average maximum temperature for Shepparton in December was 30.2 degrees. The last time December was this warm was in 2003, when the average was also 30.2. “Summer to date (to Jan 4 inclusive) has averaged 30.8 degrees, which looks to be the warmest start since at least 1996, which was when the current Shepparton weather
observation site opened at the Shepparton Airport. “Last year we were in what we call natural climate conditions without an El Niño or La Niño and there wasn’t a strong influence on the Goulburn Valley weather. “We are currently seeing a push toward El Niño conditions, which is explaining the warmth. “As an El Niño develops you can start to see things get a bit dryer and warmer and this is what we have been seeing over the last few months. “There is though, a chance of reasonable rainfall later this week and hopefully we get a few millimetres out of that.”
Shepparton TODAY
Shepparton Rainfall
High 38º
Water Level Lake Eildon Waranga Basin
Mostly sunny morning with a medium chance of showers in the afternoon and evening.
Low 20º
.4mm this month
% Full 75.88 44.02
Current Vol (ML) 2,530,018 190,321
Sunrise: 6:09am Sunset: 8:40pm
Thursday H 35º L 22º
Friday H 26º L 18º
Saturday H 23º L 14º
Sunday H 28º L 15º
90% chance of 5-10mm
90% chance of 10-20mm
50% chance of 1-5mm
60% chance of 5-10mm
Monday H 28º L 17º
Tuesday H 29º L 14º
The Goulburn and Murray Valleys’ largest circulating newspaper CONTACT US: Advertising: mspencer@sheppartonadviser.com.au Classifieds: classifieds@sheppartonadviser.com.au Editorial: editorial@sheppartonadviser.com.au
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Website:
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The Adviser is a member of the Victorian Country Press Association
For Greater Shepparton City Council Update visit www.greatershepparton.com.au
Page 2 – The Adviser. Australia No. 1:1232 Wednesday, January 7, 2015
NEWS
8,000 strong help see through the New Year in Mooroopna By David Lee ORGANISERS of the Mooroopna New Year’s Eve Festival have expressed their gratitude to the community for another successful event, with an 8,000 strong crowd helping see the new year in. Rotary Club of Mooroopna Member, Glenn Young said, “The festival was received very well this year and because it’s a family event, we find a lot of young people and families always come and enjoy themselves. “We had a lot of great entertainment including Indonesian singing students and various bands including local band, Smack. “The fireworks were also a big hit once again this year and the
SUCCESSFUL FESTIVAL… The Mooroopna New Year’s Eve Festival was seen by organisers as successful, with an 8,000 strong crowd helping see in the new year. Photos: Barry Campbell.
spinning wheel was also popular again, where 70 crayfish were won. “Our Holden Cruze draw was won this year by Dean Valasinavicius. All proceeds raised through the car raffle are donated back to local charities. “Overall the Rotary Club of Mooroopna is very pleased with how the event went off and how well the crowd behaved. “We are currently seeking major sponsors for next year in order to help see the event continue. “We’d like to thank the City of Greater Shepparton for their continued support.”
Community encouraged to apply for council grants THE local community is being encouraged by Greater Shepparton City Council to apply for a range of grants to help boost sporting, arts and strengthen the community. Grant prog rams including the Ou r Sporting Future, Events Grants, Community Arts Grants and Community Matching Grants are all currently open for application until February 6, 2015. The Community Arts Grants of up to $2,500 will support the development and implementation of community arts activities and projects as part of council’s commitment to participation in the arts. The Community Matching Grants offer grants up to $2,500 to support one-off projects which build or strengthen Greater Shepparton communities and benefit the community. Applications for the Events Grants (Small and Major Events) are also open as of January 2, 2015 for funding for both small events ($500 - $2,000) and major events ($2,000 - $5,000).
The Our Sporting Future program offers three components; the minor (up to $15,000 with a $1 to $1 contribution), major (up to $30,000 with a $1 to $1 contribution) and sports aid (up to $5,000). The Our Sporting Future Program assists community sporting organisations with the implementation of small to medium sized facility development projects and development programs for new and emerging sporting organisations across the municipality. Council’s Manager Investment Attraction Geraldine Christou said, “The programs fund a range of projects and activities. As an example, in the most recent round of the Community Matching Grants, funded projects included the We Shall Remember Them project from the Undera Primary School and a Gentle Exercise program for the Codgers Capers Men’s Group. “There are so many projects which can be funded. If anyone is interested, I encourage you to get in touch with council and have a chat about your project.”
For more i n for m at ion v isit w w w. greatershepparton.com.au/grants-and-funding
The Adviser. Australia No. 1:1232 Wednesday, January 7, 2015 – Page 3
Page 4 – The Adviser. Australia No. 1:1232 Wednesday, January 7, 2015
news
Hundreds come together for Christmas RESIDENTS’ CHRISTMAS JOY… From left, ABC Open Producer, Will Kentdrew, Rural Reporter, Warwick Long, Berry Street Deputy Director, Trish Quibell, Administration Officer, Krishna Connors, Senior Administration Officer, Daniel Nardella and ABC Breakfast Presenter, Matt Dowling. Photo: Kelly Lucas.
Hundreds receive helping hand over Christmas By David Lee MORE than 180 children, young people and families across Shepparton were given the gift of joy at Christmas, thanks to the ABC and Berry Street Giving Tree Appeal. The campaign saw approximately 400 gifts gathered from ABC radio listeners, as well as 50 gifts coming from Safeway, including Leggo, a mini trampoline, a rideon John Deere tractor and a toy horse that wags its tail, with families who received gifts saying it enabled them to give the full Christmas experience to children. A s well as the g if t donations the Goulburn Girls Book Club Shepparton
donated 15 new books for Berry Street’s Children’s Contact Centre and funding was donated by the Mooroopna Lions Club. Berry Street Deputy Director, Trish Quibell said, “On behalf of Berry Street, we’d like to say thank you for the amazing generosity of the local community in donating over 400 gifts. These gifts have allowed us to provide children and young people with the same Christmas experience that we give our own families. “Partnering with the ABC has been incredibly successful and the support and promotion by the ABC has been beyond our expectations.”
FESTIVE SPIRIT TOGETHER… The Christmas For Those Alone luncheon was the most successful year seen to date, with hundreds of people packing the McIntosh Centre to spend Christmas day in the company of others. Photo: Supplied.
By David Lee IN celebration of their 14th annual free luncheon, the Christmas For Those Alone committee are revelling after their most successful luncheon to date. Held at the McIntosh Centre at the Shepparton Showgrounds this year, hundreds of people enjoyed a two course meal, entertainment and a visit from Santa, with an increase of guests by approximately 40 people. Christmas For Those Alone President, Linda Davidson said, “This year was extremely successful, with all guests and volunteers commenting on how much they loved the day and that they will be back next year. “The Christmas For Those Alone Secretary,
Peg Newman always has one memorable quote from the day and this time it came from a gentleman who told her that it was truly inspirational that so many people who are doing it tough can get together, put their troubles away for a day, and enjoy a wonderful day where many different people are kind to each other and enjoy each other’s company. “There are many wonderful things about the day, but for me, it was the many cultures, obviously very happy and enjoying each other’s company on Christmas day. “We’d like to thank everybody who was involved in making this year such a success and we all look forward to next year’s lunch.”
The Adviser. Australia No. 1:1232 Wednesday, January 7, 2015 – Page 5
Events
COMMUNITY CONNECT UPCOMING GOLF CROQUET FOR BEGINNERS will run every Friday morning commencing from January 9 at the Shepparton Croquet Courts, Winston Street, Shepparton with a 9am start. Come along and learn a most enjoyable game. First two weeks free, then a $5 green fee will apply. Flat shoes required, all other equipment supplied. For further information, phone Trudy Serafini on 5822 0178. SHEPPARTON SAFER COMMUNITIES NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH are holding a meeting on Tuesday, January 13 from 7:30pm in the Community Centre, Riverside Plaza. All residents interested in personal and property safety and crime prevention are invited to share ideas and suggestions. Further information, phone Cathie 5821 9943 or 0434 343 327. THE GOULBURN VALLEY REGIONAL LIBRARY will be holding a Baby Rhyme Time event in the Queens Gardens on Wednesday, January 28 from 10:30am to 11:30am. Come along, enjoy songs and stories outside the library and meet new mums and bubs. For more information, phone 1300 374 765. THE GOULBURN VALLEY REGIONAL LIBRARY will be holding a Kids Summer Book Sale event on Wednesday, January 28 from 110am to 2pm at the library administration office, 79 Benalla Road, Shepparton. All items will be 20 cents. For more information, phone 1300 374 765. THE GOULBURN VALLEY REGIONAL LIBRARY will be holding a Library Fines Amnesty where any overdue books returned during January and February will not receive fines. The amnesty applies to Shepparton, Mooroopna, Tatura, Yarrawonga, Cobram, Numurkah, Nathalia, Euroa, Nagambie and Violet Town libraries. For more information, phone 1300 374 765. ONGOING CON NECT MEDITAT ION GROUP are inviting the community to enjoy the benefits of
meditation. One hour sessions are held every Thursday night from 7:30pm at Harmony Place, 9a Edward Street in Shepparton and admission is $5. For further information, contact Lisa 0419 562 790 or Roger 0427 541 611. MAINLY MUSIC program is held every Wednesday from 10am to 11:30am at All Saints Hall, 20 Francis Street in Tatura. Cost is $3 a child or $5 a family. For more information, contact Iola Ibrhaim on 5854 8265 or 0401 511 919. KIALLA SCOUTS Do you have a child aged 7-14, boy or girl, who’d like to join cubs or scouts? Kialla Cubs meet 5:30pm Mondays and scouts 7pm Tuesdays in the Scout Hall at Kialla Recreation Reserve. For enquiries, contact David at david.brown@travelmanagers.com.au or phone 0419 315 665. I N V E RG O R D O N H I S T O RY H A L L , Community Reserve, Centre Road. Open to the public on 3rd Sunday of each month, 1.30pm until 3.30pm. Contact Rosemary Kennett, phone 5862 1707. KONNEXIONS singles social activities every weekend. Meet new friends and widen your social network. Age group 45-65. Phone Glen 5827 1221, Kevin 0439 259 945, Karen 5825 3484 or email konnexions-singles@hotmail.com.au. SOUTHERN CROSS PROBUS CLUB invites all 60 years+ to join our club. This is for all active retirees. Here are five reasons to become a member, fellowship, new interests, stay healthy, travel and to stay in the loop of life. For further information phone Greta 5822 1846. ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS Meetings will be held in Mooroopna and Numurkah on Mondays, Mooroopna and Shepparton on Tuesdays, Mooroopna on Wednesdays, Shepparton on Thursdays, Shepparton and Tongala on Fridays, Mooroopna on Saturdays and Tongala and Shepparton on Sundays. For times or further information, phone 5831 6742 or 1300 22 22 22.
It’s all on at the town hall ‘QUILTASTIC’ EXHIBIT… Get down to the Kyabram Town Hall for a ‘quiltastic’ experience. From left, local residents, Marg Polglase, Win Clavell, Julie Roberts and Lesley Lowe enjoying the quilt exhibition at Kyabram Town Hall. Photo: Supplied.
STUNNING quilts of all sizes are now on display in the Gallery at Kyabram Town Hall in Allan Street, Kyabram. The magnificent display features 80 quilts contributed by a number of local, talented quilting groups and includes a range of quilt art, appliqué, candlewick, hand and machined quilting and much more. Also showing at the Kyabram Town Hall is the ‘Boudoir Collection’ featuring Victorian and Edwardian undergarments and the Splinter Contemporary Artists. Admission is $2. For further information, find ‘kyabramtownhall’ on Facebook.
Page 6 – The Adviser. Australia No. 1:1232 Wednesday, January 7, 2015
For more information on how to register for your Community Connect listing contact The Adviser via email at classifieds@sheppartonadviser.com.au Please note listings are to be 45 words or less.
GRANDPARENTS SUPPORT GROUP meet on the first Thursday of each month from 10am to 12 noon at the Shepparton Family Relationship Centre, 68 Wyndham Street in Shepparton. For information, phone 5820 0444. THE COMBINED SHEPPARTON PROBUS CLUB meets on the second Tuesday of the month at 9:30am at the Goulburn Valley Hotel. For those ladies and men, retired or semi-retired. Add zest to your lifestyle. For enquiries, phone Kevin on 5822 2673 or Joan on 5823 1987. PFLAG Shepparton we are a group of parents, family and friends of gay, lesbian and bisexual people who meet regularly to offer support and friendship to families and particularly parents. For more information phone Glenys 0409 626 647 or email pflag@ucce.org.au. SING AUSTRALIA GROUPS Shepparton meets Tuesdays from 7:30pm to 9:30pm at the Baptist church Shepparton (except school holidays). To participate in singing (no auditions needed), contact Meryl on 5831 2202 or 0418 578 369. Also on the sing Australia website www. singaustralia.com.au. GV CHRONIC PAIN Support Group meets on the third Wednesday of every month from 1pm to 2:30pm at Primary Care Connect, 399 Wyndham Street, Shepparton. Come along and share in support. For more information, email gvcpsg@ gmail.com or phone 0458 510 416 between 10am and 4pm. SHEPPARTON PUBLIC Cemetery is announcing that the second stage of the mausoleum is completed and now on sale. The historic cemetery reminds the community it is not run by council and still has room available. For information, phone Jeanette Doherty on 5821 2289. FREE BREAKFAST FOR EVERYONE at St Georges Road Post Office and Milkbar, 102 St Georges Road, Shepparton from Monday to Friday from 7am to 9am. SHEPPARTON CHESS CLUB Inc. meet
at Shepparton Access, 227 Wyndham Street Shepparton every Saturday at 1pm. Entry only through back door. New members are welcome. Adults $3 per day, juniors $1.50. Tea and coffee is provided. KYA BR A M A L -A NON FA M I LY Group meetings are held Mondays from 10:30am to 12pm and Tuesdays from 4:30pm to 6:15pm. Alateen Group meets on the 2nd and 4th Tuesday of the month from 6:15pm. Held at Salvation Army Hall, 24 Unitt Street, Kyabram. Enquiries, 5853 1344 or 0407 522 496. COU N T RY WOM EN’S ASSOCI AT ION Congupna branch meetings are held at the Congupna Hall on the third Wednesday of the month from 11am. Everyone is welcome. For further information, contact Marg Sarkady on 5825 5106. GOULBURN VALLEY TYPE ONE Peer Support Group Shepparton provides support for people living with Type 1 diabetes and meets on the first Monday of every month from 7:30pm at GV Health Community Therapy Room, Graham Street in Shepparton. Enquiries, email gvtopsgroup@gmail.com or phone 5832 2674. CAMPASPE REGIONAL LIBRARY are seeking interest for a proposed Computer Group to meet at Echuca Library on the 1st Saturday of each month from 10:30am. For more information, call David 0408 101 846, leave your name with library staff, or come along on the day. SHEPPARTON BRIDGE CLUB meets from 7pm Monday at U3A Hall Esson Street. Members are required to join Goulburn Valley U3A. For more information, phone Derek Poulton 5825 4112 or John Moore 0438 455 741 or refer to the website www.wix.com/sheppartonbridgeclub/2013 Tell us about your ‘not for profit’ community events, email classifieds@sheppartonadviser.com. au or fax 5832 8920 (information is required at least 2 weeks before an event)
The Adviser. Australia No. 1:1232 Wednesday, January 7, 2015 – Page 7
LETTERs
Opinion
Letters to the Editor
We welcome letters to the Editor but they are not guaranteed to be included and may be edited for reasons of style or content. Letters will not be eligible for consideration if they contain defamatory material, or information of a personal nature which is not in the public domain.
FUDGING THE FIGURES Dear Editor, Is Prime Minister, Tony Abbott going to follow in John Howard’s footsteps and fudge the unemployment figures? Four hours work per week isn’t full time employment. Tony is sacking public servants who are full time employees. Full time employees are the ones who buy houses and other big ticket items as they have a regular income. Casual workers cannot afford such things and don’t know when they might be working next. Full time employees are the ones who have money to spend to keep the economy going employing other people in the nation. John Howard wore out his welcome with core and non-core promises. Tony, don’t go
down the same road, but it might be too late to ask you that. You said you would create jobs for one million people; did you really mean that? It’s what the economy needs, especially for the school leavers who have finished their education at the end of 2014. Yours sincerely, Jay Nauss Glen Aplin
SAVE MOOROOPNA’S WESTPAC BANK Dear Editor, Mooroopna Westpac Bank customers
Page 8 – The Adviser. Australia No. 1:1232 Wednesday, January 7, 2015
have been advised of the pending closure of the in-store branch in Paul Wickham’s pharmacy. I would urge all who can to sign the petition in his pharmacy, and to speak to Shannon O’Doherty, Manager of the Shepparton branch by calling 5820 0760, 0407 527 841 or 5820 0755, or by cont ac t i ng Reg iona l M a nager, S cot t Whitford on 0481 431 982. I have written letters to all board members of Westpac, requesting a review of the decision made to close. This closure is going to be a big inconvenience to many people, costing time, fuel or fares to get to the bank. Please let the bank know how upset you are at this decision. Mooroopna is a growing town with two new supermarkets, a large housing development being created for thousands of people, a new large police station, McDonald’s store and good parking. Westpac are using money allocated to run the Mooroopna in-store Westpac to subsidise the creation of the new Westpac branch in Shepparton. The police department were going to do the same and planned to close Mooroopna because they had used Mooroopna allocated money to subsidise the Shepparton Police Station. With petitions and publicity and the help of The Nationals, Mooroopna now have a new police station, with a much larger staff. With your support we should be able to convince Westpac to change their mind. Two other options remain, shift your account to the banks or credit union remaining in Mooroopna, or call a special general meeting of Westpac bank and put the case to management. This only requires 100 shareholders to action this special meeting. Yours sincerely, Barry Campbell Mooroopna
PREPARING SENIOR VICTORIANS FOR EXTREME HEAT Dear Editor, Victoria is once again facing another hot, dry summer. And while that means sunny days and time spent with family and friends – it also means thinking about how to stay healthy and safe in the heat. Extreme heat can affect anyone, but older people are especially vulnerable to heat stress and heat-related illnesses. So, as Commissioner for Senior Victorians, I am encouraging all seniors to prepare for days of extreme heat. If you have a chronic health condition, or are taking medication, talk to your doctor so you know what to do. Some medications, for example, can limit awareness of physical discomfort, which means that heat-related
illness symptoms may be ignored. And now is a good time to make your home as heat resistant as possible. Check that devices such as air-conditioners, aircoolers, fans, blinds or refrigerators are in full working order. If you lose power, contact your provider on the “Faults and Emergencies” number on your most recent electricity bill. A power outage guide is also available at www.energyandresources.vic. gov.au/power-outage-guide. When a hot day arrives, remember to stay cool indoors at home as much as you can. If that’s not possible think about a “Plan B” to escape the heat such as staying with a friend or family member with air conditioning. As well as asking for help if feeling the heat, seniors are reminded to: D el ay a ny outdo or a nd s t renuou s activities such as sport, gardening and home improvements; Drink plenty of water – if your doctor normally limits your fluids, check how much to drink during hot weather; Eat small cold meals more often; Wear loose, light-coloured clothes; and keep cool using wet towels. As a community we should also look out for one another. I call on friends, family and neighbours to check on older community members to see if they need help. It only takes a few minutes to make contact and a phone call, or even help with practical tasks like pulling down blinds, may make all the difference. More information on heat health is available at www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au. You can also subscribe to receive heat alerts by email by visiting www.health.vic.gov. au/subscribe. For health concerns call your doctor or Nurse-on-Call on 1300 606 024. These are common sense and simple steps – but being prepared and taking action might help save your life, or the life of someone you care about during extreme heat this summer. Yours sincerely, Gerard Mansour Commissioner for Senior Victorians
WELCOME TO THE NEW YEAR; TELL US YOUR OPINION The Adviser would like to welcome you all to 2015 and look forward to reading all of your letters. Our Letters to the Editor page provides you with the opportunity to voice your opinion about a range of topics and we encourage all of you out in the Goulburn Valley community to send them in. Yours sincerely, The Adviser Team Shepparton Want to have your say? Email your letters to the Editor to editorial@sheppartonadviser.com.au. Max 100 words
The Adviser. Australia No. 1:1232 Wednesday, January 7, 2015 – Page 9
NEWS
Snapshots of Shepparton’s past
CHAMPION RIDER… 1950s local Cyclist, Jim (Scobie) Bourke (left) is pictured here with local icon and friend, Don Ash (right). Jim was awarded the sash he is wearing for winning the state title in Tasmania, where he beat champion cyclist, Viv Blazely. Jim went on to represent Tasmania in the Australian Road Titles. He also won many cycling road and track races in Shepparton during in the 1950s and was even up for selection for the Olympics
SHEPPARTON has been a thriving community for more than 155 years, and throughout that time many people and events have helped to shape the township into the community that it is today. The Adviser, with the help of former local, Marlene Kuhn, has decided to share some of those moments in time with you through a series of photographs. If you have an old photograph of a local event or moment in time that you would love to see published, feel free to email the image to editorial@sheppartonadviser.com.au
See next week’s edition of The Adviser to revisit some of Greater Shepparton’s landmarks in the ‘50s and ‘60s.
Check your keys, check your ‘kids’
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WITH the hotter weather already batting down on the region, RACV has issued a timely reminder to prevent children being locked in cars through the launch of their latest campaign, Check Keys – Check Kids. Last year RACV patrols rescued 1,489 children from locked vehicles; on average RACV attended four callouts a day, with most of them accidents. The Check Keys - Check Kids campaign aims to inform parents about how easy it is to be distracted. A recent RACV test showed that a vehicle’s cabin can soar to over 70 degrees in minutes on a day when the outside temperature was only 30 degrees. RACV Manager Road User Behaviour, Melinda Spiteri said anyone could accidentally lock a child in a car, especially given the sophisticated locking technology used in some modern vehicles. “Any parent can become distracted and accidentally lock a child in the car and in hot summer conditions this can be extremely dangerous. “It can only take a few minutes for a
HEAT IS RISING… RACV is reminding parents to make a connection between checking your keys and checking your ‘kids,’ to ensure children aren’t left alone in hot cars. Photo: Supplied.
child locked in a car at that temperature to become seriously ill or die due to heatstroke or dehydration. “While RACV prioritises call-outs to vehicle lock-ins involving children, the few minutes it can take for a patrol to reach the scene can make an enormous difference when temperatures are extreme,” Ms Spiteri said.
The Adviser. Australia No. 1:1232 Wednesday, January 7, 2015 – Page 11
news
PRECIOUS PICTURES… The Occasion Studios is inviting parents to enquire about how to have their little bundle of joy, aged between six months and two and a half years, to be photographed for their Pre Mothers Day wall portrait display. Photo: The Occasion Studios.
Search on for baby models
need some extra cash?
YOUR photogenic little bundle of joy could be in the spotlight at this year’s Pre Mothers Day wall portrait display, as Professional Photographers, The Occasion Studios begins its search for baby models. The Occasion Studios Proprietor, Simon Greig said, “This is a fantastic opportunity to see your little one be a star in their own right by potentially being a part of our Pre Mothers Day wall portrait display. “It is a real joy to see how much families enjoy seeing their beautiful babies on public display and it is one of our favourite promotions of the year. In fact,
We can help you get some extra $$$ for life’s little luxuries
it gets harder and harder every year to choose between all of the gorgeous ‘littlies’ we photograph to go on display.” If your baby is aged between six months and two and a half years, can sit up unaided and you would like to be involved in this special opportunity, then you should contact The Occasion Studios. The Occasion Studios will be photographing approximately one hundred and fifty babies, between twenty to thirty of which will be selected to be a part of their Pre Mothers Day wall portrait display. The session is free of charge with up to 30 percent off the normal prices available for participants who order extra prints. For further information on the promotion, contact The Occasion Studios at 13 Wyndham Street, Shepparton or call 5831 3600 with your child’s details.
Post-Christmas sales break records
Local bargain seekers score big savings continued from front page
If you are an adult or child over 11 years of age and available on Wednesday and looking to earn some extra cash this could be ideal for you. If this sounds like you, please contact Sarah on 5832 8900 or call into the office located at 219–225 Wyndham Street, Shepparton
Page 12 – The Adviser. Australia No. 1:1232 Wednesday, January 7, 2015
SHEPPARTON Chamber of Commerce and Industry President, Paul Lelliott said, “It was definitely a good December. It’s good to hear that consumer confidence is at such a high level. Shepparton is in for a period of good news heading into 2015.” Trelly’s Fishing and Hunting World Proprietor, Steven Threlfall said, “Things were a little slow on the lead up to Christmas and I think that’s because the shopping trend has really changed from purchasing something to put under the tree before Christmas to purchasing something for yourself after Christmas. “Boxing Day was incredible this year. It was so busy. With a combination of carefully chosen specials and good stock holdings, we actually saw records broken this year. “We are definitely seeing an increasing trend over the past few years of shoppers taking more so to the sale period.” Harvey Norman Franchisee, Neil Kuhl said, “The sale period has certainly been a lot busier than last year, which surprised us a little. I’ve never seen some of the prices we had on offer before, so I think that was a big player for us in getting people to the store. The public got some great deals this year.” Barbeques Galore Proprietor, Jason Bathman said, “We were a little overwhelmed with post-Christmas sales and had some really positive results. “We actually had a record turnover this year. “It’s good to see positive consumer confidence and locals supporting locals within the Goulburn Valley. We certainly appreciated the extra kick.”
The Adviser. Australia No. 1:1232 Wednesday, January 7, 2015 – Page 13
news continued from front page
Lives lost statewide But local road behaviour improving STATEWIDE, the provisional road toll has been reported to have increased for the first time since 2005, with 248 people killed on roads; five more than 2013. Eastern Region Division Three Traffic Advisor, Senior Sergeant Ralph Willingham said, “Although the statewide road toll has increased, we’ve had a significant reduction in fatal road accidents in the City of Greater Shepparton. We’ve had two in the last calendar year compared with eight the year prior. “Over the Christmas period this year, when compared with previous years, generally police are satisfied with road users. “Although it may seem like there is a concentration of accidents in the Shepparton and Mooroopna areas, it actually all accounts to the larger volumes of vehicles on the road during the holiday period. “We also saw there were less impounds and less dramatic hoon behaviour. There was nothing really untoward in that period and police are happy with this result.”
ROAD TOLL RELEASED… While the 2014 provisional road toll for Victoria has been seen to increase for the first time since 2005, the holiday period on our roads locally has been hailed by police as displaying a positive outlook, with just 11 road accidents caused. Image: Supplied.
Help shape recreation and ‘Ramp it Up’ FEEDBACK is currently being sought for to determine local youths’ preferred recreational activities and programs, with the Ramp it Up Group currently conducting surveys. The group is currently working with Greater Shepparton City Council to examine recreation facilities available in the community and plan for youth recreational spaces in the future. Greater Shepparton City Council’s Director Community, Kaye Thomson is encouraging young people in small towns
across Greater Shepparton to have a say. “We want to know about your favourite recreational activities, where you take part in these activities and what facilities, activities or programs you would like to see in your town. “We want to know what’s important for young people in recreation, so we can plan for facilities and programs for young people in the future.”
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Ramp it Up Committee Member, Janet Batten echoed these comments. “As a member of the Ramp it Up Committee, I encourage young people to complete the survey so we can capture as much feedback and get benefit from your input.” Ms Batten said. The survey is available from www.surveymonkey.com/s/ Rampitupsurvey and are required to be completed by January 31 this year.
Ready for School
in 2015
KnOw wHen TO sTART… With the start to the school year right around the corner, it is always handy to know when children are required to return to school. Photo: Supplied.
when do I return to school? WITH just on three weeks left before most of the region’s students return for the 2015 school year, The Adviser is lending a helping hand to all parents with a handy list outlining when students should return to school.
Bourchier Street Primary School
Mooroopna Primary School
Monday, February 2 – All students return
Thursday, January 29 – All students return
Dhurringile Primary School
Mooroopna Secondary College
Thursday, January 29 – All students return
Thursday, January 29 – Years 7, 10, 11 and 12 return Friday, January 30 – Years 8 and 9 return
Goulburn Valley Grammar School
Shepparton High School
Friday, January 30 – All students return for student conferences Monday, February 2 – All students return
St Brendan’s Primary School Thursday, January 29 – All students return
St Georges Road Primary School Thursday, January 29 – All students return
Friday, January 30 – Years 5, 6 and 7 return Monday, February 2 – Years 8, 9, 10, 11 and 12 return
Nathalia Secondary College
Guthrie Street Primary School
Notre Dame College
Thursday, January 29 – All students return
Friday, January 30 – Years 7, 9, 10, 11 and 12 return Monday, February 2 – Year 8 return
St Mary’s School (Mooroopna)
Thursday, January 29 – Years 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 return Friday, January 30 – Preps return
Sacred Heart School (Tatura)
St. Mel’s Primary School
Thursday, January 29 – All students return
Thursday, January 29 – All students return
McGuire College
Shepparton Christian College
Wanganui Park Secondary College
Thursday, January 29 – All students return
Monday, February 2 – All students return
Mooroopna Park Primary School
Shepparton East Primary School
Thursday, January 29 – Year 7, 11 and 12 students return Friday, January 30 – All VMG students commence
Thursday, January 29 – All students return
Thursday, January 29 – All students return
Kialla West Primary School
St Luke’s Catholic Primary School
Thursday, January 29 – All students return
Thursday, January 29 – All students return
Thursday, January 29 – All students return
Wilmot Road Primary School Monday, February 2 – All students return
The Adviser. Australia No. 1:1232 Wednesday, January 7, 2015 – Page 15
in 2015
Ready for School
Shoes Direct fit your
footwear needs
WALK IN FOR FOOTWEAR DEALS… Shoes Direct has fantastic deals on selected items in their ‘back to school’ shoe range. From left, Shoes Direct 2IC Leah Barretto and Store Manager, Kristy Wade. Photo: Alicia Niglia.
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WITH the beginning of the school year just around the corner now is the time to organise ‘back to school’ shoes, and your one stop shop for all your quality footwear needs, Shoes Direct has everything covered, all at a great price. Shoes Direct not only have fantastic deals on selected ‘back to school’ footwear, but also offer top of the range fashion shoes for men and women from top brands including Windsor Smith, Grosby and Slazenger for men and Jemma for women. Shoes Direct Store Manager, Kristy Wade said, “Along with our already fantastic prices on men’s and women’s footwear, we currently have discounts on selected school shoes. “Most people spend a great deal of the day on their feet and it is important to find the right shoe for your foot, at Shoes Direct, we are sure to have the right footwear for any occasion,” Kristy said. To pick up a great pair of shoes that will have your feet smiling or to take advantage of unbeatable ‘back to school’ deals, visit Shoes Direct at 194 Corio Street, Shepparton or phone 5822 4426.
Ready for School Important information about the
in 2015
Schoolkids Bonus WITH legislation now passed to phase out the Schoolkids Bonus payments, it’s important for families across the Goulburn Valley to remain informed about their eligibility for the coming year. The Schoolkids Bonus will continue for eligible families until the end of 2016. This will allow time to adjust to the change. The last instalment will be paid in July 2016. The legislative change has also seen the introduction of an income test, which will commence from January 1, 2015. Parents or carers receiving Family Tax Benefit Part A for a dependent child in primary or secondary education, primary or secondary students turning 19 years or younger in the calendar year who receive certain government payments will both be eligible under the income test criteria. From January 1, 2015, eligible families will receive Schoolkids Bonus in either two instalments of $211 for each child in primary school (a total of $422 each year) or two instalments of $421 for each child in secondary school (a total of $842 each year). The School Uniform Shop Proprietor, Geoff Bray said, “The tax initiative was designed to help cover the incurred costs associated with primary and secondary school education for families including uniforms. “The Schoolkids Bonus means that families, at least in the interim, will feel some relief when purchasing their school necessities including uniforms, schoolbags, hats and accessories. “With the plan to phase out the Schoolkids Bonus, my advice to parents is to get in early, take full advantage of the subsidy while it is available and have all your uniform needs covered.” For more information, call into The School Uniform Shop at 183 Corio Street, Shepparton or for further enquiries phone 5821 3232.
SET TO GO… Pictured, The School Uniform Shop Proprietor, Geoff Bray with grandchildren, Cruz Bray (Guthrie Street Primary School) and Chloe Bray (Bourchier Street Primary School). Photo: Alicia Niglia.
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The Adviser. Australia No. 1:1232 Wednesday, January 7, 2015 – Page 19
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The Adviser. Australia No. 1:1232 Wednesday, January 7, 2015 – Page 21
TV Guide – WEDNESDAY JANUARY 7 TO TUESDAY JANUARY 13 2015 seriously ten
Tuesday
Monday
Sunday
Saturday
Friday
Thursday
Wednesday
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Shepparton juniors to learn from cricket legends AUST R A L I A N cricket legends, Mer v Hughes, Nathan Bracken, Jimmy Maher, Ray Bright, Rodney Hogg, Keith Stackpole and Graham Yallop will take on Shepparton’s junior cricket stars in a special Cricket Super Camp run by Shaun Brown Cricket Coaching and the McDonald’s Mac Pack initiative. A s p a r t o f M c D o n a l d ’s o n g o i n g commitment to encourage grassroots sport for ‘kids’ of all ages and abilities, local juniors are encouraged to register for the Shepparton Cricket Super Camp, which will be held at Vibert Reserve from January 22 to 23. Shaun Brown said he is looking forward to sharing his top tips with Shepparton’s rising
stars. “We’re looking forward to meeting the local talent and helping them to develop their skills and improve their game,” Shaun said. Shepparton McDonald’s Licensee, Karen Pearse said the McDonald’s partnership with Shaun Brown Cricket Coaching showcases the way the company is committed to promoting healthy and active lifestyles amongst young Victorians. “We’re excited to provide local juniors with the opportunity to meet some of the game’s best players and Aussie cricket legends. “The Mac Pack Super Camps are all about inspiring young cricketers to aim high and
enjoy an active lifestyle, and cricket is a fantastic summer activity for young kids to get involved in.” The McDonald’s Summer Cricket Camp will run on Thursday, January 22 to Friday, January 23 from 9am to 3pm. To register, phone 1800 351 415 or visit www. cricketcoaching.com.au PACKED WITH CRICKET LEGENDS… The McDonald’s Mac Pack special Cricket Super Camp will give budding Shepparton junior cricket stars the chance to learn from Australian cricket legends, including Merv Hughes (pictured). Photo: Supplied.
Get active during Summer holidays FREE ACTIVITES… Greater Shepparton City Council has everything organised to help keep your children busy during the school holidays, with their free Activities in the Park program. Photo: Supplied.
IF YOU’RE looking for something to keep the ‘kids’ occupied during the school holidays that will also keep them happy and healthy while excising, then Greater Shepparton City Council’s free Activities in the Park program has just the thing. Held at various locations throughout the municipality, the two weeks of non-stop-fun activities include mixed sports sessions, traditional Indigenous games, hoops, poi and plates, pool parties, Mircus Show and plate spinning, kite making and dog mooves. Greater Shepparton City Council Healthy Communities Officer, Belinda Conna said, “Activities in the Park is an ideal opportunity for families to participate in free activities together and to get the ‘kids’ outdoors during the school holidays, but remember to bring along a drink bottle, a hat and to be sun smart.” For more information, visit www.getmoovingshepparton. com.au, download the ‘Get Mooving’ app or like ‘Get Mooving Greater Shepparton’ on Facebook. Alternatively, contact Council’s Active Living Department on 5832 9431.
Activity
Location
Date
Time
Mixed Sports Sessions
Toolamba Recreation Reserve
Wednesday, January 7
10am – 11:30am
Mixed Sports Sessions
Dookie Recreation Reserve
Thursday, January 8
10am – 11:30am
Traditional Indigenous Games
Ferrari Park, Mooroopna
Friday, January 9
6pm – 8pm
Hoops, Poi and Plates
Meteorite Park, Murchison
Saturday, January 10
10am – 1pm
Pool Party
Tatura Swimming Complex
Sunday, January 11
1pm – 3pm
Mircus Show and Plate Spinning All Abilities Playground, Tom Collins Drive, Shepparton
Monday, January 12
9am – 12pm
Kite Making
Undera Recreation Reserve
Tuesday, January 13
10am – 12pm
Mixed Sports Session
Merrigum Recreation Reserve
Wednesday, January 14
10am – 11:30am
Kite Making
Kialla Park, Kialla
Thursday, January 15
10am – 12pm
Pool Party
Merrigum Swimming Pool
Friday, January 16
1pm – 3pm
Hoops and Poi
Ferrari Park, Mooroopna
Saturday, January 17
10am – 1pm
Dog Mooves
Victoria Park Lake
Sunday, January 18
9am – 10am
Playball
Congupna Recreation Reserve
Monday, January 19
10am – 11am
Cricket Scoreboard SCA Haisman Shield
Murray Valley
Katandra v Shepp United CP St Brendans v Tatura Mooroopna v Kyabram Northerners v Numurkah
Strathmerton v Nathalia Katunga v Waaia Cobram v Katamatite Cobram-Yarroweyah v Finley Barooga v Deni Rhinos
A Grade Round 9 (to be played on Saturday, January 10)
Round 9 (to be played on Sunday, January 11) Karramomus v Old Students
Premier Division Round 9 (to be played on Saturday, January 10)
Goulburn-Murray
A Grade Round 10 - Day one, two day games (to be played on Saturday, January, 10) Echuca South v Stanhope Kyabram FB v Echuca Cooma v BLU Tongala v Rochester Tigers Rochester UTD v Moama
The Adviser. Australia No. 1:1232 Wednesday, January 7, 2015 – Page 23
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