The Adviser 1653

Playing in nature

THE new nature play space has been installed at the Shepparton Art Museum precinct, adjacent to Victoria Park Lake, for the community to utilise and enjoy. Installed by Greater Shepparton City Council, the new play space includes natural elements throughout to avoid the use of plastics and synthetic materials. The design of the play space caters for a variety of ages to climb, explore and play across the rocks, logs, sand pit and large turtle shell sculpture.

Continued Page 10

Wetland on Shepparton’s fringe brings visitors from Canada and Russia

By Natasha Fujimoto

favourite for international visitors of the feathered kind as well. With an abundance of vegetation, open water areas and great mud flats, Reedy Swamp attracts up to two hundred Marsh and Sharp-tailed Sandpipers yearly (depending on conditions), who dine-out on local aquatic insects and larvae. Continued Page 6

Your festival calendar

Your guide to our region’s biggest party, where anything is possible and everyone is invited.

Explore our two-week program of art, performance, culture, music, food and so much more.

Tickets on sale now. sheppartonfestival.org.au/event

Date Event Venue

Thursday 16th March, 5:30pm Festival Opening –kick things off with us!

Friday 17th March, 10am-12pm

At a Pinch -Ceramics workshop with Kaye Poulton

Friday 17th March, 7pm Firetail –Live Music

Friday 17th March, 6pm – 9pm

Saturday 18th March, 4pm - 10pm

Friday 17th March, 6pm – 8pm

Saturday 18th March, 4pm - 7pm

Festival Hub, 14 Edward St. Shepparton

Tickets

FREE, bookings essential

Festival Hub, 14 Edward St. Shepparton $45 person

Wildlife Brewery, 4/6 Williams Rd. Shepparton

Converge on the Goulburn Lake Victoria, Victoria Park Lake, Shepparton

It’s all about the bees – Workshop with Splinter Contemporary Artists at Converge on the Goulburn, Victoria Park Lake, Shepparton

Saturday 18th March, 10am – 12pmPaint by Nature –Workshop with Kaiela Arts and RiverConnect

Saturday 18th March, 7pm Australian Welsh Male Choir -Singing in the Pub

Saturday 18th March, 8pm Multicultural Comedy Gala featuring Dilruk Jayasinha, Ivan Aristeguieta, Tahir, Jeff Green, Dora Smith, Ben Lomas and Ting Lim

Sunday 19th March, 2pm – 4pmThe Broken Creek Pop-Up Choir with Erin and Lachlan Heycox

Sun 19th March, 6:30pm – 8:30pmBroken Creek in Concert – Live Music with special guests from the pop-up choir

Wednesday 22nd March, 6pm – 8pmWalk with and share our stories –a museum experience with culture, food and drinks

Thursday 23rd March, 6pm – 8pmYenbenal Woka - Weaving Circle Workshop with Suzanne Atkinson and Ally Knight & a Ceramics Workshop with Jack Anselmi

Friday 24th March, 6pm ¡Ópera Española! -a Spanish Opera under the direction of Allegra Giagu

Friday 24th March, 6pm Things Of Stone & Wood (Acoustic) w/ special guest Simon Marks –Live Music

Kaiela Arts, 530 Wyndham St. Shepparton

The Junction Hotel Toolamba 24 Wren St. Toolamba

Riverlinks Westside, cnr Echuca Rd. & Homewood Dr. Mooroopna

Kialla Central Hall, 135 Central Kialla Rd. Kialla

Kialla Central Hall, 135 Central Kialla Rd. Kialla

Bangerang Cultural Centre, 1 Evergreen Way, Shepparton

Kaiela Arts, 530 Wyndham St. Shepparton

Tallis Wine, 195 Major Plains Rd. Dookie

Shepparton Brewery, 15 Edward St. Shepparton

FREE, bookings essential

FREE, no bookings required

FREE, no bookings required All materials supplied

FREE, bookings essential All materials supplied

Adult $30 / Concession $20

Children FREE (must be acc. by adult)

Adult $59.90

Concession $54.90

Riverlinks Member $54.90 Group (8+) $49.90 each Student (full time) $54.90

$10, includes entry to performance and rehearsal materials

Adult $25 / Concession $20 Children Free

FREE, bookings essential

FREE, bookings essential All materials supplied

$65 standing $100 picnic rugs

$120 - $150 seated Food and drinks available for pre-order and purchase

General Admission $32 Dinner and Show $62

Friday 24th March - Sunday 26th

March, 10am – 4pm daily Earth – an Exhibition by Dookie Arts

Saturday 25th March, 12pm – 1:30pmFoliage & Rocks – a Collage Workshop with Rachel Doller

Saturday 25th March, 10am – 12pmTuned to the River – a music experience with Erin and Lachlan Heycox, hosted by RiverConnect

Sunday 26th March, 10am – 12pmBush Poetry Along the River –Poetry Workshop with Mick Coventry

Monday 27th March

Dookie Memorial Hall, 38 Mary St. Dookie

Wild Life Brewing Co. 4/6 Williams Rd. Shepparton

Visit sheppartonfestival.org.au for directions

Visit sheppartonfestival.org.au for directions

In Conversation – creative networkingFestival Hub, 14 Edward St. Shepparton

FREE, no bookings required

$55 per person, must be 18+ includes all workshop materials, 1x drink from the bar and grazing platter

FREE, bookings essential

FREE, bookings essential

FREE, bookings essential

Access Memory

Photo by Jeff Busby

Flight of colour

Photo by Serana Hunt-Hughes

BRICKY B

Photo by Josh Brnjack

Date Event Venue Tickets

Sunday 26th March 2pm – 3pm Kids workshop 4pm – 5pm Adult workshop

Saturday 25th March 2pm – 5pm 7pm – 10pm

Zine Making Workshop with Meg DollerFestival Hub, 14 Edward St. Shepparton

Shepparton Theatre Arts Group present It Takes Two Riverlinks Westside, cnr Echuca Rd. & Homewood Dr. Mooroopna

Wednesday 29th March, 2pm - 4pm Short film-making –Screening of short films by The G.R.A.I.N. Store

Wednesday 29th March, 8:30pmPresentation is Everything –comedy from Sweeney Preston and Ethan Cavanagh

Wednesday 29th March

Thursday 30th March

Saturday 1st April 6pm – 8pm each night

OnBelonging –Sound Installation by Tim Burder

Billabong Gardens Nursery, 295 Numurkah Rd. Shepparton

Downtown, 47 High St. Shepparton

Riverlinks Studios, 70 Welsford St. Shepparton

Adults $15 / Children $10 All materials supplied

Full $40

FREE, bookings essential

Adult $25 / Concession $20 This event is restricted to 18+

FREE, bookings essential

Thursday 30th March, 7pm - 8pm

Friday 31st March, 7pm - 8pm Access Memory –a dance installation by Tegan Nash Ollet

Thursday 30th March, 4pm – 8pmSAM at Sunset –an after-hours, full museum experience with free kids activities, artist talks and bar

Friday 31st March, 7pm - 8pm

Saturday 1st April, 6:30am – 7:30am & 7pm - 8pm

Sunday 2nd April. 6:30am – 7:30am

Please arrive 15min prior to the show

Dawn Chorus / Dusk Chorus –a surreal bird walk

Saturday 1st April, 4pm - 5pm Close to Home –Victorian College of the Arts Dance in collaboration with Alleyne Dance

Saturday 1st April, 6:30pm – 10pm Show time: 8:30pm – 9:30pm The Wine Bluffs – a cellar door masterclass with a comedic twist

Bakehouse Blackbox Theatre, 17 Wheeler St. Shepparton

Shepparton Art Museum, 530 Wyndham St. Shepparton

Australian Botanic Gardens Shepparton, Botanic Gardens Avenue, Kialla

SAM Amphitheatre, 530 Wyndham St. Shepparton

Longleat Wines, 105 Old Weir Rd. Murchison

Adult $30 / Concession $25 Blak Tix $10

FREE kids activities and artist talks. Tickets for the bar go on sale 16th March

Adults $25 / Children $15

FREE, bookings essential

Show only $50 Dinner and show $75 This event is restriced to 18+

Saturday 1st April, 8pm Wasteman – Live Music Festival Hub, 14 Edward St. Shepparton Entry $15

Sunday 2nd April, 4pm – 10pmFestival Closing Event –concluding the festival with “If we can’t see it, we can’t be it” live music co-programmed by Brady Jones (BRICKY B)

Thursday 16th March - Sun 2nd April, 12pm – 5pm (Tues - Sat)

Opening, Thurs. 16th March, 5:30pm

Collective Community Heart –a large scale community artwork by Dery Theodorus and Nathan Carkeek

Festival Hub, 14 Edward St. Shepparton

Festival Hub, 14 Edward St. Shepparton

Adult $20 / Concession $10 Children FREE

FREE, no bookings required

Friday 17th March - Sunday 2nd April

Opening – Sunday 26th March, 2pm Not Forgotten –an Exhibition by Shepparton Textile Artists

Friday 17th March - Sunday 2nd AprilYarka’s Creation –an Exhibition by Tammy Lee Atkinson

Friday 17th March - Friday 5th May,

Monday to Friday 9am - 3pm

Opening, Sunday 19th March, 2pm

Thursday 16th March - Sunday 2nd

April, 12pm – 5pm (Tues - Sat)

Opening, Thurs 16th March, 5:30pm

Tues 21st March - Tues 23rd May

Opening – Tues 21st March, 6pm

Friday 17th March - Saturday 1st April

Monday to Friday 6am – 3pm

Saturdays 7am – 2pm

Sundays Closed

Sat 18th March - Sat 1st April

Saturdays 2:30pm – 10pm

Thursdays 4:30pm – 8:30pm

Fridays 3:30pm – 10pm

Opening, Sat 18th March, 2:30pm

March 2023 - March 2024,

viewable 24hrs a day

Road to Pride –an Exhibition by Goulburn Valley Pride

Reflecting Resilience –an Exhibition led by Lisa Lynch Jones and Chris Walker with Greater Shepparton Lighthouse Project

Yenbenal Woka –an Exhibition by artists at Kaiela Arts

Flight of colour –an Exhibition by Olivia Evans-Smith

Foliage & Rocks –an Exhibition by Rachel Doller

Festival

Front Windows at Shepparton Visitor Centre, 530 Wyndham St. Shepparton

Various locations, follow the art map at sheppartonfestival.org.au

Mooroopna Education & Activity Centre (MEAC) 23 Alexandra St.Mooroopna

Festival Hub, 14 Edward St. Shepparton

Kaiela Arts, 530 Wyndham St. Shepparton

Stellar Coffee, 278 Wyndham St. Shepparton

Wild Life Brewing Co. 4/6 Williams Rd. Shepparton

Stubbs Wallace

160 Welsford St. Shepparton

FREE, no bookings required

FREE, no bookings required

FREE, no bookings required

FREE, no bookings required

FREE, no bookings required

FREE, no bookings required

FREE, no bookings required

FREE, no bookings required

Wall – large scale artwork by young people of the Goulburn Valley

car park,

Collective Community Heart

Photo by Mitch Barrett

Monash Universities' Ian Wong with original Monaro wheel trim drawing by Holden designer Phillip Zmood

Allegra Giagu

Photo by Mitch Barrett

Dawn Chorus / Dusk Chorus

Photo by Sebastian Berto

Legendary vanilla slice takes national award

WITH a super crispy pastry, exceptional, creamy custard and just the right sliver of sweet icing adorning the top, North End Bakehouse’s delectable vanilla slice has been named Australia’s best by the Baking Association of

Australia.

Chasing the coveted prize for nine years, Matt Aylett and his team of master bakers were over the moon when they heard the news, in Bendigo on Saturday, March 4.

“We were super-excited, especially because we’ve put in a lot of time and effort over the years to perfect this dessert, we’ve always played with the recipe and now we’ve got it perfected,” Matt said.

North End Bakehouse customers of course, don’t need a national award to be told how sublime the slice is, as Matt said, “We get people coming from everywhere and everyone always tells us that our vanilla slice is the best they’ve had. In the end, as long as we keep our customers happy, that’s amazing.”

Crispy pastry and creamy custard aside, Matt

BEST IN THE NATION... Matt Aylett and his team at North End Bakehouse in Shepparton have finally won the coveted title of producing Australia’s number one vanilla slice, as judged by the Baking Association of Australia. The award winning dessert is not only sublime, it is easy to eat with the perfect creamy custard consistency. Photo: Natasha Fujimoto

said the judges also looked for how well the slice stayed together, once bitten into, avoiding the all too familiar oozing from the sides. No stranger to winning a string of bakery awards, including Most Innovative hot Cross Bun (2023) and Best Hot-Cross Bun (2021 &2022), Matt said his team would return to the awards next year to defend their title.

Congratulations to Jamie Lea

THE Greater Shepparton Women’s Charter Advisory Committee (GSWCAC) was thrilled to announce local Jamie Lea, as its 2023 GSWCAC Women’s Award recipient at the Greater Shepparton International Women’s Day event on Wednesday 8 March.

The GSWCAC annual Women’s Award recognises and celebrates the achievements and community impact of local women within Greater Shepparton and also recognises the advancement of embracing diversity and making a difference on gender equality in Greater Shepparton.

Nominations were judged upon how the nominee made a difference to the community, particularly within the Greater Shepparton area, how the nominee has acknowledged and embraced diversity and how the nominee has inspired and encouraged women.

Jamie Lea was chosen as the recipient of the

2023 Women’s Award due to her outstanding commitment to the community and for the significant contribution she has made to the development of women through:

· mentoring young people and sharing her own story as a connector and inspiration

· showcasing, celebrating and providing opportunities for women as performers, volunteers and leaders

· sharing and teaching others the skills of resilience, strength, self-determination and business management

· standing up and calling out discrimination and harassment of any kind in a way that is educating

· being a passionate advocate and support for Greater Shepparton

The Greater Shepparton Women’s Charter Advisory Committee (GSWCAAC) is a

community advisory committee of the Greater Shepparton City Council, and is part of a broader network of Local Government Area (LGA) advisory committees across the state that are guided and informed by the Victorian Local Government Women’s Charter.

The GSWCAAC is made up of wonderful members whom give up their time to be part of the Committee. With Council support, the GSWAAC aims to increase women’s participation in key decision making forums within the community and in democratic governance. The GSWCAAC supports three main principles: Gender Equity, Diversity, and Active Citizenship.

The nominees for the 2023 award were:

· Jamie Lea

· Kirsty Thomas · Lisa Hueston

· Holly Purton · Neha Samar

Technology for education but not mobile phones

By Natasha Fujimoto

IN an ideal world, students in classrooms across Australia would know when, and when not to use their mobile phones during school hours.

Further, the same students would navigate only to the most instructive educational sites, restraining from social media or any distracting web pages, communities or apps that did not complement their learning, until the final bell of the day.

While some experts believe mobile phone access in classrooms better prepares students for the real-world experience, most of the nation’s students are required, as a matter of policy, to secure their phones in lockers during school hours.

At both Notre Dame College (NDC) and Greater Shepparton Secondary College (GSSC), students adhere to similar policies to promote a safe, distraction free learning environment.

Consigning personal devices to lockers, the 2020 Department of

Education’s Mobile Phone in Schools Policy (abided by GSSC) also aims to promote greater opportunities for social interaction and physical activity during recess and lunchtimes.

Following suit and in line with the Education Department’s Ministerial order, NDC acknowledges in its policy that while ‘... parents may wish their child to carry a mobile phone for personal safety reasons, the right of a student to have access to a mobile phone at College must be balanced with the responsibility to use it appropriately.’

For both schools, preventing the unsociable misuse of phones and eliminating the insidiousness of cyberbullying lie at the core of their aligned action.

Technology, nevertheless, remains an embedded and vital part of both colleges’ educational landscape with the provision of individual laptops dispersed to thousands of students along with specialist learning software and expansive IT teams to support it.

Upgrades to GV Health’s maternity sector

CHANGES FOR GV

HEALTH... In 2022, GV Health’s maternity team undertook a period of community consultation including a community forum, online survey and meetings with community groups. Maternity Services Manager, Carmel Brophy, said the maternity team took the feedback they received very seriously and are implementing some changes. Photo: Natasha Fujimoto

GV Health has announce a range of exciting changes for its maternity services, including upgraded facilities, accommodation for partners to stay during the postnatal period, improved continuity of care and provision for future water birth and in vitro fertilisation (IVF) services.

In 2022, GV Health’s maternity team undertook a period of community consultation including a community forum, online survey and meetings with community groups.

Maternity Services Manager, Carmel Brophy, said the maternity team took the feedback they received very seriously.

“A decline in birth numbers and the redevelopment of our unit prompted our team to seek community consultation on ways to improve our service provision to our families in our region,” she said.

“We wanted to work with families to support them through their pregnancies and birth journeys, with the aim of providing continuity of care models within the core antenatal period to both low and high-risk women, collaborating with both midwives and obstetricians.”

Midwifery Group Practice (MGP) clinical coordinator, Zoe Andrus, said one of the most important pieces of information that came from that consultation was the need to

allow a support person to stay overnight with mother and baby.

“It’s not just the mum that’s had the baby, it’s a family unit,” Mrs Andrus said.

“Partners are very much more involved now, it’s their child as well so they need to be involved in that initial care.”

GV Health’s maternity services team took this feedback onboard and a support person is now warmly invited to stay overnight at GV Health through the postpartum period.

The Maternity Unit, Birthing Suites and Special Care Nursery have also recently been upgraded.

In addition to single rooms for each mother, with space for a support person to stay, the refurbished Maternity Unit now also boasts a brand-new dedicated parenting and visitor area where staff can undertake support and assessments for newborns in the ambience of a relaxed, shared environment.

A new bath for water births is expected to be available for use from mid-March.

In addition to this, the models of care offered at GV Health have been changed to improve the continuity of care and patient experience.

Looking forward, GV Health’s maternity team is now in the process of developing new postnatal education services and preparing for the future provision of public IVF services.

Wetland brings visitors from Canada and Russia

MIGRATING over staggering distances from Canada and Russia, the tiny Sandpipers lose between a half and a third of their bodyweight as they fly continuously for two weeks.

Enthralled by this incredible feat, wetlands and environment water project officer for Goulburn Broken Catchment

Management Authority, Jo Geddes said, "A fascinating fact about these birds is, that as they can fly and sleep at the same time.

"Similar to auto pilot, they shut down half their brain as they fly so they can cover great distances, stopping over in Japan, China or Korea to feed before heading to our own, Reedy Swamp.

Switching on an internal compass that science has yet to fully understand, Jo said that the highly- adaptable Sandpipers simply know where to head for optimal conditions to feed as they hit Australian shores.

"If there's too much water around Reedy Swamp or if it's too dry, the Sandpipers will head to the coast to feed, not breed, just

feed," Jo said.

Other seasonal visitors to the swamp this time of year, and in bounty due highwater levels, are the deep-diving Blue-billed ducks as well as Ibis, which are excellent pest controllers for surrounding farms and Spoon-billed ducks, who breed in the tall vegetation.

Welsh choir to sing atop the Shepparton Art Museum

FOR the first time ever, the highly acclaimed Australian Welsh Male Choir (AWMC) will delight and enthral audiences from atop the spectacular Shepparton Art Museum (SAM) on Sunday, March 19.

Sharing a passion for music and song, 60 choristers will lift their voices with spine tingling four-part, harmony, as they sing songs in several languages, including Welsh.

Proudly hosted by the SAM Foundation, the 49-year-old choir will feature songs such as Men of Harlech, Calon Lan, Pantyfedwen and Gwahoddiad, while also performing popular music from musical theatre, opera, gospel and other favourites.

Aiming to inspire and connect with people of all ages and backgrounds with the emotive magnificence of choral music, the AWMC will perform on Sunday, March 19 at 11am and conclude at 12.30pm, with a special opportunity for audience members to join the SAM Foundation Trustees for light refreshments beforehand, at 10.30am.

With all proceeds from the concert going towards the SAM Foundation, SAM development manager Carmel Johnson said, “It is exciting that the choir will have the opportunity to sing for the first time on the top level of our iconic building.

“This will be a unique experience for both the choristers and the audience, and we are grateful that the choir are donating their time to perform in Shepparton.”

Tickets for this unique and special event are on sale now and can be purchased at: www.eventbrite.com/e/ the-australian-welsh-male-choir-tickets.

IN FOR AN ABSOLUTE

TREAT...

On Sunday, March 19, the highly acclaimed Australian Welsh Male Choir (AWMC) will delight and enthral audiences for the first time from the top level of the iconic Shepparton Art Museum (SAM). The AWMC will generously donate all proceeds from the event to the SAM Foundation, which will ensure Shepparton’s newest cultural hub to continue to showcase and present world class exhibitions and public programs. Pictured from left, and proudly holding a Welsh flag in anticipation, is SAM Foundation Chair John Head, Sam Foundation development manager Carmel Johnson and AWMC member, John Lewis, who’s love of song is barely containable.

Photo: Natasha Fujimoto

O’Keeffe demands deadline for life-saving road repairs

MEMBER for Shepparton District Kim O’Keeffe says a trucking business in her electorate faces more than $100,000 in repairs because of the appalling state of

In Parliament this week Ms O’Keeffe demanded Roads and Road Safety Minister, Melissa Horne, tell regional Victorians when increased funding will be provided for adequate repairs and maintenance to our

Kim detailed the massive repair bill being run up by Leocata Transport and owner Adrian Leocata said he is even more concerned for the safety of the people driving

“Mr Leocata says the burden on his drivers is even higher as they have to also worry about the safety of other road users as they all struggle to weave around potholes, crumbling edges and whole strips of road simply chewed up and riddled with cracks and bitumen

“Shadow Roads Minister Danny O’Brien and I recently caught up with Mr Leocata on the Tatura-Murchison Rd – a major truck route with a high volume of heavy vehicles as well as cars every day of the year. It is blindingly obvious this road is not only deteriorating from a lack of maintenance and repairs; it is simply no longer fit for purpose.

Mr Leocata tells us the road is dangerously narrow, causing trucks to try and navigate passing each other while also trying to avoid the potholes and other safety risks. The works being done are falling apart not long after the repairs are done – travelling on the Echuca road last week when I came across a dangerous, patched-up part of the road that you had to drive around,” Ms O’Keeffe added.

“If you didn’t see it, or thought you could still drive over it, you faced certain damage, or worse,” she said.

“I can assure the Minister that’s not happening in my electorate, and that’s why –

APPALLING... In Parliament this week

Member for Shepparton district Kim O’Keeffe demanded Roads and Road Safety Minister Melissa Horne tell regional Victorians when increased funding be provided for adequate repairs and maintenance to our roads before more lives are lost. Photo: Supplied

on behalf of my constituents – I am asking for her explanation of when all regional Victoria will get some long, long overdue funding and repair. If this government is allegedly investing millions of dollars in regional roads, I’d like to know where, when, how much and how the schedule rolls out to cover all regional Victoria.”

Rejoice, Welsford Street is back

THE redeveloped intersection at Welsford Street and Fryers Street will re-open Friday with the new road expected to improve traffic flow and provide a safer environment for drivers, cyclists and pedestrians.

There are changes to the way Marungi Street and Fryers Street operate, with vehicles able to do left hand turns only to improve safety and reduce traffic congestion. Right hand turns from Fryers Street into Marungi Street or vice versa are no longer possible.

Greater Shepparton City Council Mayor, Cr Shane Sali said the works will help remove the queues of traffic, improve traffic flow and provide safer driving.

“The community now has a much safer road for everyone to use. The extra right turning lane from Welsford Street into Fryers Street will provide a quicker route westward and the removal of the right turns will prevent the queuing that used to occur as traffic tried to get onto the Causeway,” he said.

“We know this intersection is very busy and the updated intersection will help the movement of traffic east west and north south.”

“The full depth reconstruction of the road will cater for increased vehicle traffic volumes as Shepparton grows along a north south corridor,” said Cr Sali. “Thank you to the community for their patience while the works were being done.”

The contract was awarded to local company Apex Earthworks at the September 2022 Council meeting and works commenced on November 14 2022.

The project cost $2.89M with $1,446,780 (50 percent) funded by the

Federal Government under the 'Heavy Vehicle Safety & Productivity Program'.

These works were the fourth completed stage of a six stage plan to improve Welsford Street traffic flow. Designs for Stage five and six will upgrade Welsford Street from north of High Street to the Wyndham Street (Goulburn Valley Highway) and Sobraon Street intersection.

Your dream is their dream

THERE have been some exciting changes for Focus Cards and Gifts, with the store proud to officially announce that 8-year veteran Shelley Culhane is now a part owner of the much-loved store.

A natural progression for Shelley, she spoke of what drove her to take on this opportunity.

“I just genuinely love our regulars and seeing their happy smiles when they find the perfect gift or card. I enjoy taking time to guide, in particular our older customers, by reading out the cards until they find the “one.” My customers feel like family, I feel like I’m home here, so this was the next step for me,” said Shelley.

The team are also now owners/operators of The Lott (under the same roof). Their dream is to sell a division one ticket.

“Our dream is to make the dreams

continued from front page

come true for one of our customers. We are excited for the prospect of selling a big winning ticket, how delightful that would be to see that happen for someone local,” said Focus Cards and Gifts proprietor Peter Dunbabin.

In the meantime, make sure you enter the store’s Easter Competition when you spend $20 or more on Tatts products. The lucky winner will walk away with $200 in fuel vouchers and $100 of Easter goodies.

Focus Cards and Gifts is located at 181 Maude Street, Shepparton, and is open Monday to Friday 8:30am-5:30pm, Saturday 8:30am-4:00pm and Sunday 10:00am-2:00pm. They currently have loads of quaint, high-quality Easter décor and gifts alongside their usual range, so be sure to hop in and take a look.

Playing in nature

THE project, which was fully funded by Creative Victoria Department of Jobs, Precincts and Regions, was completed at the end of February.

Council’s Director Infrastructure, Gary Randhawa, said the new play space was unique to Greater Shepparton.

“This is not a traditional playground like many around our region. This play space incorporates many elements of nature which are not seen in any other playgrounds around Greater Shepparton,” he said.

“It is a play space that compliments the entire lake precinct, which incorporates our Shepparton Art Museum, and really

encompasses the picturesque surroundings in the area.”

In addition to the playground, a shelter with barbecue, tables and seating, along with a raised grass picnic area shaded by the large existing trees, has been installed for community members to utilise all year round.

“This is just another feature that adds to the space. We hope these new additions are utilised by families and visitors to the precinct,” Mr Randhawa said.

“Council believe these new additions compliment the beauty of Victoria Park Lake and the SAM precinct and we look forward to seeing them put to good use.”

$29/mth for 12 months on new services in select postcodes

LOTS GOING ON...The Focus Cards and Gifts team are also now owners/operators of The Lott (under the same roof), and their dream is to sell a division one ticket. Spend $20 or more in store on Tatts products to go into the draw to win their generous Easter raffle. Store owners Shelley Culhane and Peter Dunbabin can’t wait to make someone a millionaire. Photo: Stephanie Holliday

NEW PLACE TO EXPLORE... Installed by Greater Shepparton City Council, the new nature play space in the SAM precinct includes natural elements throughout to avoid the use of plastics and synthetic materials. The design of the play space caters for a variety of ages to climb, explore and play across the rocks, logs, sand pit and large turtle shell sculpture. Photo: Supplied

Harmony Week proudly celebrating our students, our school, our community

Australia is one of the most successful multicultural countries in the world and our cultural diversity is at the heart of who we are.

Here in Greater Shepparton, we reflect this diversity more than most communities – and here at Greater Shepparton Secondary College, we proudly celebrate our amazing cultural mix and the unique learning opportunities we enjoy at every opportunity!

Harmony Week is one of our major celebrations because it is all about inclusiveness, respect and belonging for all Australians, from the Traditional Owners of the land to our most recent arrivals. Our rich Indigenous heritage is built into the design of GSSC and cultural understanding is built into our teaching and learning

How we are better together

Want a sneak preview of our students’ preparation for Harmony Week?

Scan the QR code and have a look!

Harmony Week began in Australia and is now celebrated internationally. Because we are Better Together, GSSC has taken it to a new level - at recess, lunchtime and after school, our dance studios and theatrette spaces have been abuzz with activity as our students and staff put the finishing touches on cultural performances for parents and their peers.

The aims of Harmony Week also reflect the goals of the Shepparton Education Plan – to lift education outcomes and life opportunities for all pre-school to postsecondary students in Greater Shepparton.

For a sneak peek at what’s in store for our families, scan the QR code and look out for local news and social media coverage on how GSSC is celebrating our strengths as a multicultural community!

Powerful and vivid, two new exhibitions are set to enthral

THE countdown is on for two new, exciting and evocative exhibition openings at SAM on Saturday, March 18.

With a career that has chartered an impressive trajectory, contemporary visual artist, Ash Keating will proudly present ELEVATION, a new solo exhibition that interprets the landscape of Yorta Yorta Country / the Goulburn Valley through his signature, abstract style.

Through a series of large-scale paintings which combine to create breath-taking panoramas, Keating responds to the landscape with which he has forged an indelible affinity with over time.

As a child, Keating recalls memories of accompanying his grandmother as a pilot in a light-aircraft, flying over Victoria's high country and it is this, and other visits to elevated places that have informed his atmospheric compositions.

Reflecting on the grand cycles of life, the enthralling new SAM collection exhibition, Dance Me to the End of Love will also open on Saturday, March 18.

Traversing the stages of human existence from birth to death and beyond,

the combined artworks featured in the exhibition span the course of 120 years in diverse mediums, including ceramics, sculpture, painting, printmaking, assemblage and installation.

Comprising of works from 39 artists, D ance Me to the End of Love shares stories of lives lived and delves into connective experiences of creation, parenthood, spiritualism, life seasons, death and the afterlife.

Beloved items from the collection will return for the exhibition, including patron favourites, Woman and Child by Sam Jink's and Penny Byrne's darkly humorous 2009 ceramic work, The Four Horsemen of the 21st Century Apocalypse.

With the official opening event of Ash Keating: E LEVATION beginning at 2pm on SUNDAY March 19, community members who would like to attend, are invited and can make a booking at www. trybooking.com/CGJXD.

Ash Keating: ELEVATION will exhibit until June 18, 2023, while Dance Me to the End of Love will show until February 2024.

TWO EXCITING EXHIBITIONS OPENINGS AT SAM... Contemporary visual artist, Ash Keating (pictured) will proudly present ELEVATION at the Shepparton Art Museum from Saturday, March 18 until June 18, 2023. Through a series of largescale paintings which combine to create breath-taking panoramas, Keating’s work responds to the landscape of Yorta Yorta Country. Photo: Michael Pham

Authorised by Wendy Lovell MP, 222 Wyndham Street Shepparton.

A cultural festival not to be missed this weekend

CONVERGE on the Goulburn is back and is set to enthral, entertain and delight families and visitors to the region over two big evenings of food, music, performance and art.

Bringing together the vibrancy and richness of Greater Shepparton’s Aboriginal and multicultural communities, this year's festival will showcase an exciting and diverse range of cultural art including Chinese calligraphy,

Turkish Ebru painting, African wood carving, Henna, local artists and so much more.

The line-up across the stage will get everyone up and dancing with live music as well as a huge variety of performances from around the world.

Tapping into local talent, creating a full line-up of spectacular entertainment over two nights to take us on an around the world

stage program, audiences will be delighted by dancers from Tonga and Malaysia and will also have a chance to engage with performances by Amaru Tribe and the incredibly talented Yorta Yorta artist, Maddi Colville Walker. With over 35 individual organisations and people from all backgrounds in one place to share an incredible experience, the menu on

offer will bring sumptuous delights from 25 food vendors saluting cuisine from around the globe.

An event celebrating our unique and dynamic community, Converge on the Goulburn is a two-day festival that will take place at Victoria Park Lake on Friday, March 17 from 6.00pm to 9.00pm and Saturday, March 18 from 4.00pm to 10.00pm.

A SPECTACULAR EVENT... celebrating the region’s vibrant Indigenous and multicultural heritage, Converge on the Goulburn is a festival for the whole family to enjoy over two big nights of food, music, art and performance.

Photo: Supplied

Greater Shepparton City Council presents

Benalla Airshow on this weekend

IF YOU haven’t already secured your tickets to the upcoming Benalla Airshow, you can still snag discounted tickets online.

At the show, you can catch the likes of pro-pilot Paul Bennet, who has a reputation for putting on a sensational show that exceeds many expectations. His aerobatic displays leave spectators in awe as he defies gravity and physics.

Whether you’re a steadfast aviation enthusiast or just looking for a fun weekend with the family and kids, you won’t be disappointed by the endless entertainment on offer.

Come along for aerobatic stunts that will have you on the edge of your seat performed by some of Australia’s top champion pilots, a hot air balloon launch, markets and street food, as well as modern and historic gliders, rare and unique warbirds and other aircraft to explore.

FIRST BENELLA AIRSHOW… This weekend on Saturday, March 18, Benalla Airport will host its first Airshow. There will be unbelievable aerobatics from some of Australia’s top champion pilots, a mass hot air balloon launch early in the morning of show day and rare and unique warbirds. Photos: Supplied

Hosted by the Gliding Club of Victoria, the event was originally planned for 2022 to coincide with their 70th anniversary in Benalla.

If you’ve already purchased tickets, they are valid for this weekend. Children under five are free to attend and you will save money when you purchase tickets online before the event.

It’s all taking place this Saturday, March 18 at Benalla Airport, 35 Samaria Road, Benalla. Get tickets at benallaairshow.com. au

Get eggs-cited for Griffith’s Easter programme

WITH heaps of fun activities on in Griffith for Easter, you should use the long weekend to explore the north-western part of the Riverina region, about three hours’ drive from Shepparton.

Good Friday morning (April 7) will see a fun run and walk on the lake suitable for all ages and Griffith Pioneer Park Museum’s ‘Action Day’, which has kid's activities, market stalls, vintage machinery, demonstrations and entertainment, as well as food and beverages.

Griffith’s main street will be teeming with sales on Easter Sunday morning at the Banna Avenue Sidewalk Sale. Saturday afternoon, catch the Griffith Vintage Festival, featuring live music and local wine and food.

Returning Saturday is ‘Blood, Sweat & Beers’, Griffith's first homebrew competition and independent craft beer festival. Run by Grainmother Brewing Supplies in the Griffith Community Gardens, it was a tremendous success in 2022.

Easter Sunday will celebrate wonderful wine and food. Explore producer and artisan markets at Piccolo Family Farm, grab a coffee, sample tasty food and enjoy live music. While there, be sure to visit their new Visitor Experience Centre and cellar door.

That's just one offer. You'll be spoilt for choice over the long weekend with a winery event or tasting experience at many of Griffith's acclaimed cellar doors.

It is recommended to book ahead to ensure you don’t miss

360 Health Management is your trusted local registered NDIS provider, we have a full range of services, specialising behavioural support, recovery coaching and support coordination.

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HOP ALONG FOR EASTER… The city of Griffith welcome all to the Griffith Easter Party, a very long weekend full of joyful experiences for everyone. The organisers have announced that many favourite events from previous years are scheduled to return, alongside some new and exciting events coming to life in 2023. Photo:

out on these fantastic events. To find out more, visit griffitheasterparty.com.au or call 1800 681 141.

Supplied

Let us help you improve your quality of life, friendships and connections.

A new chapter for an old favourite

Preparing for their big move

AFTER many years occupying the top end of Shepparton Mall, Prouds the Jewellers are moving to the prominent former Camera House building, on the corner of the mall and Fryers Street.

In preparation for their big move, the store is currently holding an exclusive sale, with pieces from other locations across Australia being delivered to the store throughout the clearance period. The sale will be for a limited time and comprise of mainly display stock, except for catalogue items. There will be a varying percentage discount on all items, as well as catalogue specials.

“We are very excited at JPL to be building a spacious, beautiful and brand-new flagship Prouds store for Shepparton. We have a lot of confidence in this vibrant regional

city and are excited to be investing in our business here, adding new jobs and creating something special for our many regular customers. Our new store will open in May, so be sure to keep an eye out for the Grand Opening,” said James Pascoe Limited Group regional manager, Scott Young.

Once they move stores, Prouds will resume special orders for customers who wish to tailor a piece to suit their style. There’s also a generous 90 day layby period (with 25 percent deposit) as well as Afterpay and HUMM Little and Big Things Finance options for customers. Please note during the sale period there are no holds, laybys or special orders. All of these services recommence once the new store opens.

Chart topping album goes global

ADORED local restaurant The Last Straw may have changed hands after 18 years, but that is the only element to the highly regarded eatery, that draws crowds on the daily, that is different.

The menu, décor, exemplary customer service, and divine coffee beans the establishment is known for are the same, with the cohort of staff including the chef, remaining firmly in place.

New owner Mr. Gobie Raju spent over a month with previous owners John and Yao O’Donoghue, meticulously ensuring the authentic Thai cuisine will continue to delight the tastebuds of regulars and new visitors alike.

Like before, it’s a family affair, with Gobie’s son, Iyen Raju kindly directing people to their tables, the lunchtime rush is no problem for the well-seasoned hospitality pro.

One thing that will change is The Last Straw offering weekday dinner bookings in the near future, a very welcome evolvement given the lack of mid-week dinner dining options in Shepparton’s CBD.

“We will start with Monday evenings from March 20th, and go from there. We are also planning to start a traditional savory Asian breakfast menu, in addition to a selection of delicious waffles and other options to complement the Asian breakfast menu,” said Mr. Raju.

“Definitely keep your eye out for the extended trade. Otherwise, it’s business as usual. Our menu and tastes are exactly the same, we will continue to stay true to the legacy John and Yao began.”

The last straw is located at 24 Keppel Street and can be contacted at 5822 4990. To reserve a table, you can also visit thelaststraw.com.au.

AUSTRALIAN musician, Joe Matera, who has local connections performing in Shepparton in the 90s with the band, On the Prowl, recently signed to iconic Australian record label, Possum Records for the worldwide release of his new album, The Lone Runner “I’m honoured to be joining the artist roster of Possum Records,” said Matera. “It’s great to find a home for my music, and one where my music will be given it’s due with support and belief, something that Possum Records CEO, Philip Israël firmly established from the moment my music caught his ear. I’m looking forward to working together with Philip and his label.”

Better known musically for his guitar driven pop-rock music, the new allinstrumental album sees Matera taking a left turn on his musical evolution path, with a cocktail of sounds that delve into electronica, beats, guitar and synths.

Featuring some previously released material that was only available digitally, along with newly recorded material, The Lone Runner includes the SBS Chill Radio staple, Brick by Brick, which was voted #12 of the Top 100 Chilliest Tracks of 2023 by SBS Chill Radio.

The Lone Runner will be available to purchase from record stores and available to stream online from March 17.

ON THE MOVE... Prouds the Jewellers are moving to the prominent former Camera House building, on the corner of the mall and Fryers Street. In preparation for their big move, the store is currently holding an exclusive sale, with Josephine, store manager Stephanie and Taylah able to help you find a bargain. Photo: Stephanie Holliday

SAME TEAM, SAME GREAT FOOD… Back row from left is The Last Straw’s Iyen, Kate, Abbey, middle row from left is Bee and Dean and front row from left is Beverly, Gobie and Ford.

Photo: Stephanie Holliday

NEW RELEASE… Joe Matera is a music journalist and musician who started in the industry in the 90s with On The Prowl, playing gigs in Shepparton and along the Murray River. His new album, The Lone Runner, is due for worldwide release on March 17. Photo: Supplied

Sarah Thomson and Linda Nieuwenhuizen from the Goulburn Murray Resilience Taskforce

Albanian Harvest Festival returns to Queen’s Gardens

IN A fine celebration of food, family, culture and community, the Albanian Harvest Festival will transform Shepparton’s Queen’s Gardens into an abundant display of the region’s primary fruit-growing industries and proud Albanian heritage.

“We’re so excited that the festival is back on again,” said Shepparton Albanian Moslem Society president, Reg Qemal.

“Held annually each March in Shepparton, the event is regarded as one of the largest Albanian cultural events in Australia now, bringing Albanian people from around the country together to share in traditional food, music and dancing.”

The Harvest Festival also boasts a fruit and vegetable market that offers produce at wholesale prices, most of which is grown locally. This has drawn substantial attendees from Melbourne in previous years, who take advantage of the opportunity to purchase produce direct from farmers.

The event was developed in Shepparton over 20 years ago as a way for the Albanian community to celebrate its culture and help Albanian families in the area keep in touch. Since the organising committee made the decision to move the festival into a more central location a few years ago, the cultural mix of people attending the festival has

broadened considerably.

“As a result, our committee would very much like to encourage a more diverse crowd to come along and help us celebrate our culture by sharing our entertainment, food and traditions,” said Reg.

Gates open 11am Sunday, March 19 in the Queens Gardens. Extra parking can be found behind Council’s offices on Marungi Street. Entry is free this year, with the opportunity to enter the $5 raffle and go in the draw to win a trip to Albania.

GRAND TRADITION...

The Shepparton Albanian Harvest Festival returns with free entry this year at Queen’s Gardens on Sunday, March 19. Pictured are festival vice president Urim Busku, Dash Sherif from Sherif Orchards, festival secretary Safet Kutrolli, Lex Sherif from Sherif Orchards, festival president Reg Qemal and committee member Shaban Hoxha.

For more information, find Shepparton Albanian Harvest Festival on Facebook or visit sheppartonalbaniansociety.org/ harvest-festival

Continuing to fight for a safer primary school crossing

THE Liberal Member for Northern Victoria Wendy Lovell has continued her fight to improve safety of the pedestrian crossing at Kialla West Primary School, inviting the new Minister for Roads and Road Safety Melissa Horne to Shepparton to see the dangers of the crossing herself.

Ms Lovell has been a continuous advocate for a major safety upgrade of the crossing, ever since a horrific twovehicle collision involving a school family occurred at the crossing in September 2018.

In a constituency question to Ms Horne in State Parliament, Ms Lovell said that after nearly 4½ years since the collision, there has been no meaningful safety upgrades of the crossing to ensure the safety of pedestrians and drivers.

Ms Lovell asked Ms Horne if she would accept an invitation to visit Kialla West Primary School at the end of the school day so she could see for herself the dangers of the school crossing during peak times and the urgent need to upgrade it.

“It has been close to five years since that horrific collision at the Kialla West Primary School crossing and it remains just as dangerous, with little done to make it safe for students, staff, parents, and motorists.

“The new Minister needs to get on with the job of fixing the Kialla West crossing and I invite her to join me at the end of a school day so she can understand the dangers of the crossing and the need to make it safe for all that use it each day,” Ms Lovell said.

Photo: Deanne Jeffers

CONTINUING THE FIGHT... Liberal Member for Northern Victoria, Wendy Lovell has invited the Minister for Roads and Safety, Melissa Horne to Shepparton to see the dangerous pedestrian crossing at Kialla West Primary School on the Goulburn Valley Highway. Photo: Natasha Fujimoto

Vintage rally and tractor pull back in action

SWINGING back into action with its first two-day event since Covid, the Goulburn Valley Vintage Tractor and Farm Machinery Club Inc (GVVTFMC) are elated to present their 38th Annual Vintage Rally and Tractor Pull on Saturday and Sunday the 25-26 of March.

Taking place at the Wunghnu Recreation Reserve, on the Goulburn Valley Highway, there will be plenty of engines, tractors, machines and machinery to wow the whole family.

Starting up on the huge weekend will be the 800 horsepower Crossley Engine, a 12-foot high, 80-year-old generator that once powered Shepparton’s own Radio Australia.

More machinery of yesteryear will be on display as well as the artisanry of the GV Wood turners, as the Moira Miniature Rail club will have the kids giggling with delight as they chug by, enjoying a ride or two aboard their mini passenger train.

Starting at 9.30am on the Saturday morning, the more intrepid can join the 50km tractor trek, taking the time to simply kick-back and enjoy the day with likeminded enthusiasts. With a satisfying lunch provided, it is a great way to have some serious fun.

With weather permitting, the tractor jaunts will continue under lights with a twilight tractor pull while the family favourite ‘Federation Picnic Car’ display,

COMMUNITY CONNECT

Tell us about your ‘not-for-profit’ community events via email at classifieds@ sheppartonadviser.com.au (information is required at least 2 weeks before an event). Please note listings are to be fewer than 55 words.

aims to welcome over 100 vintage and classic cars on the Sunday, with all car devotees and their vehicles welcome.

Proud to be revamping a full-two days of fun and entertainment, GVVTFMC veteran and this year’s event coordinator Lloyd

Healey said, “This will be a great family day and a great weekend to catch-up with likeminded people who you may not see for twelve months. It’s just a great way to have fun, see friends and enjoy the fascination of machine, machinery and vehicle."

SHEPPARTON/ KIALLA

Coles City

ECO Store (Shepparton Access store)

Emporium 3630

Fairleys SUPA IGA

Kialla Lakes Shops

Riverside

GOSPEL MEETINGS... All are welcome to attend a series of non-denominational Bible meetings, presenting the simple truths that Jesus lived and taught. Taking place every Friday night at 7.30pm-

8.15pm, at the Mooroopna Education and Activity Centre at 23 Alexander Street, Mooroopna. Contact J Doecke on 0488 792 945 or A Mclean on 0437 521 890 for further information.

STARTING UP... at this year’s Vintage Rally and Tractor Pull is the enormous Crossley 800 hp engine which was rescued from Radio Australia on Verney Road, Shepparton. The 12 foot-high engine dates back to WW2. After restoration the engine was officially opened in 2014, at the 31st Vintage Rally and Tractor Pull weekend. Photo: Supplied

Accident on hairy roundabout

ON Tuesday, March 7 at approximately 1.05pm, a vehicle travelling north along Johnson Street turned right onto Hoskins Street where it was struck by another car heading south along Corio Street.

Failing to give way at the roundabout, the second vehicle sent the blue Ford hatchback into the air, striking it on the front passenger side before it came to rest, upturned on its roof across an island.

Both the drivers of the accident were assessed by paramedics at the scene with the male driver of the upturned vehicle taken to GV Health as a precaution, with minor cuts and abrasions.

Sergeant Dariel Wagstaff of Shepparton Police Station said the female driver who failed to give way was fortunately unharmed but was issued with a penalty notice.

An eyewitness at the scene, who had been driving just ahead of the Ford hatchback said he heard a large bang before seeing the vehicle flip in his rear-view mirror and was amazed that no-one was more seriously hurt.

LETTERS

Letters to the Editor

Dear Editor,

It is not even 12 months ago that Council received over 700 objections from the Shepparton community with regard to developing a multi-story social housing building on the car parks of Nixon and Maude Streets. Council is now considering a social housing development on the High and Rowe Street car parks. It is good Council is following procedure and is seeking community feedback regarding the affordable social housing proposal.

I object to this proposal for the following reasons:

A multi-story residential building will not enhance the CBD. A high-density build is a short-term fix which could lead to long term problems as experienced in the North of Shepparton over 20 years ago.

We’re all ears

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.

This site would become a concrete jungle being located at the rear of several businesses including Coles / K-Mart

By selling, leasing or gifting the fore-mentioned land for social housing it will compromise future potential/ opportunity for the site.

The social housing building would restrict parking in the CBD. By 2030 the Council predicts that Shepparton city’s population will grow to 80,000 people. Where will people park then?

What about the use of green spaces?

I believe it is our duty as a society to support those who are less fortunate than ourselves. We need to provide appropriate housing that will offer a better lifestyle for those in need and at the same time also consider what is

best for Shepparton.

I encourage community members to go to the Greater Shepparton City Council website before March 17th and Have Your Say in Shaping Greater Shepparton.

Yours sincerely, Roslyn Knaggs, Shepparton

Want to have your say?

Email your letters to the editor to editorial@sheppartonadviser.com.au

Please keep letters to under 200 words.

Solving Shepparton’s housing crisis

By Deanne Jeffers

COULD students hold the keys to some of the big questions impacting the availability of housing in Greater Shepparton?

Over the next semester, 24 Masters of Architecture students from the University of Melbourne’s School of Design will use Shepparton and the threats, challenges and opportunities facing housing supply as a case study as part of their coursework.

They visited the region on Monday, March 6, to see for themselves the types of residences and infrastructure in Shepparton, including hearing from bodies such as housing provider Beyond Housing and visiting flood-impacted areas to determine future strategies.

“Rather than designing in the abstract and talking about housing, we can come here and start to be really specific,” said Rory Hyde from the University of Melbourne.

“One of the things that our research quickly flushed out is that the large proportions somewhere between 75-80 percent of existing houses in Greater Shepp are three- and four-bedroom, suburban style homes.”

“That leaves a tiny proportion of one or two bedrooms for people with different needs and people on lower incomes.”

Rory said, “we're trying to expand that different types and opportunities that are out there.”

It’s all been made possible through a partnership with the Committee for Greater Shepparton (C4GS).

C4GS CEO, Linda Nieuwenhuizen, said housing is a critical factor in attracting talent to the region.

“We run the community connector

program. It's supported about 500 professionals to relocate to Greater Shepparton in the last two years.

“From that what we're discovering or what they're sharing with us is they would prefer low maintenance accommodation in the centre of town and more along the lines of an apartment townhouse.”

“That was a real trigger for us to think, are we actually encouraging the right types of development in greater Shepparton and what sorts of development could we be looking at?” Linda said.

The student’s work will be assessed midyear and then presented in the region.

NO ONE SERIOUSLY HURT... A car came to rest on its roof on Tuesday, March 7 at the five-way roundabout situated between Corio, Johnson and Hoskins Street after a two car collision.

Photo: Pam Higgins

FRESH PERSPECTIVE... A partnership between the Committee for Greater Shepparton and the University of Melbourne hopes to brainstorm and uncover answers to housing availability in the region. Pictured is C4GS CEO Linda Nieuwenhuizen and Rory Hyde from the University of Melbourne.

Photo: Deanne Jeffers

Warbirds, rides & displays. tix@benallaairshow.com.au

KYABRAM TOWN HALL GALLERY

100 Years Of The Kyabram Cannery Through Memorabilia and Pictures.

Great Contemporary Art by Splinter Art Group & Bird photography by Bill Harris For further information please contact

Goulburn Valley Vintage

Tractor

25th & 26th March 2023

5832 89 89

cl as sifieds @s heppar tonadvise r. com.au www.sheppar tonadvise r. com.au

Career Opportunitie s

Rural City of Wangaratta currently have a number of vacancies across a variety of departments!

We are currently lookin g fo r Fu ll Time, Part Time an d Casual people fo r th e below ro les:

• Ad mini stra tion Offi cer – Aged & Communit y Care

• As si stant Pu blic Fa c ilities

Cleane r

• Community Care Wo rker

• Concr et ing Crew Member

• Cust omer Experi ence Of fi ce r

• Day Manage r

• Domestic Care Wo rker

• Early Childhood Te ache r

• Gr oup Fi tness Inst ructor

• Gym Instructor

• Gy mnas tic Coac h

• Li br ary Of fi ce r

• Life guar d

• Mainte nance Wo rker (B and 3)

• Mainte nance Wo rker (B and 4)

• Membership & Corp or ate

Pa rtnership Of fi ce r

• PAC Theatre Te chnician

• P lanning Coordinato r

• Safety & Wellbeing Coordinator

• School Crossing Superv isor

• Senior Aq uatic Ed uc at io n In structor

• Senior Café At te ndant

• Café At te ndant

• Supervisor – Fr ont of House

The successful applicant will be re quired to prov id e a co py of thei r Covid-19 Va ccin at io n Certifi cate prio r to commenceme nt

Rural City of Wangaratta is a child safe and equal opportunity employer. Employment applications from AboriginalandTorresStraitIslanderpeoplesandpeople from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds are encouraged In addition, applications for positions that work with children must provide referees who can comment

CLASSIFIED LOCA L OPPORTUN ITIE S

EMPLOYMENT

ELECTORATE OFFICER (GRADE 2)

The Department of Parliamentary Services is

•Media and stakeholder engagement

•Managing communications across a variety of channels

•Developing a range of written materials (including Media Releases, advertising, correspondence)

•General administration and constituent services

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Gearing up to be a big one

BIG V basketball fans, get ready! This season will be super exciting with the arrival of two new international imports, Derek Murphy and Josh Kooiman. The duo are prepped and ready to take on the competition in the Big V 2023 season.

Murphy, a 6'5" from the United States, brings a wealth of experience to the team, having played professionally in Europe for the past three years. Kooiman, a 6'1" from New Zealand, is a dynamic player with a reputation for his quickness and agility on the court.

The Big V 2023 season promises to be an exciting one, and with the arrival of these two talented players, fans are in for a real treat. Don't miss your chance to see them in action.

The Greater Shepparton Basketball Association (GSBA) has for the last 20 years, had local competition in both seniors and juniors across 7 clubs, squad junior teams competing across the state representing this region and a senior representative program. This has been a training ground for our elite athletes who

are very much recognised at the State level.

Last Friday, the Ken Muston MG Shepparton Gators held their season launch and jersey presentation at Belcibo & Co, and a great night was had by all.

Return of great race to honour great man

MAKING a highly anticipated return after nearly 25 years on the side-line, the Shepparton Gift running race will make its return on Saturday, March 18.

Named in honour of the great Yorta Yorta athlete George Nelson, the event will bring competitors from far and wide in pursuit of the title at the Shepparton Showgrounds.

In his day, George Nelson won over 30 professional races and went on to be the first Indigenous trainer to mentor a Stawell Gift winner.

With the support of several user groups, businesses and with a lot of community members wanting to bring the event back to Shepparton, the race will be the final event to win a Stawell bonus.

The Gift marks a return to its traditional home, with almost $12K in prize money on offer and will be a fun day out for the entire family with a whole host of different races and relays to enjoy.

Expecting around 400 participants, there will be little athletics relays and handicapped sprint races to go along with the men and women’s Gifts.

The George Nelson Gift, Shepparton will run between 1pm and 7pm and is hoped to mark its annual return.

Kick Marketing

Coaching Staff: Josh Waight, Ryan Gleeson, Troy Lundberg. Players: Lachlan Kego, Staci Richardson, Josh Kooiman, Derek Murphy, Jordan Munro, Ian Wright, Dylan Hoare, Matt Bartlett, Nick Dodd, Jordan Birch, Sam Beks, Tom Frame. Photo: Supplied