The Adviser 1654

Minister opens ‘final stage’ of GV Health but ‘job half done’

By Deanne Jeffers

Greater Shepparton’s newest youth space

GOTAFE and Greater Shepparton Lighthouse Project have officially launched OLLY (Opportunities and Life Links for Youth).

Located at GOTAFE’s Fryers Street campus in Shepparton, OLLY offers a welcoming and non-judgmental space

for young people in the community. The program will provide access to food, positive social and learning experiences, and opportunities to refer those in need to relevant services as required.

OLLY replaces Lighthouse's program, The Haven, which has supported over

11,000 positive engagements since its establishment in 2017. OLLY will continue to build on the success of The Haven, and the new partnership with GOTAFE will offer enhanced employability training opportunities and strengthen links to other community services. Continued Page 4

Scenic fun and challenge for

TO the sound of revving engines, a fun navigational challenge through the scenic Yarra Valley will soon be afoot with the return of the GV Hospice Rallye, in its 27th iteration.

Leaving Shepparton on Saturday, May 6 the fundraiser will be off to Peppers Resort in beautiful Marysville before returning on the Sunday.

With a bumper field ready to get started, Kevin Maude chair of the rallye committee said, "A big field is good news for GV Hospice as all vehicle entry fees are donated to the organisation.”

Jeanette Powell, president of GV Hospice said “The funds raised by this event and other community groups ensures the community continues to have access to a much needed free, 24 hour, seven days a week specialist palliative care service. Thank you to the wonderful rallye

committee, entrants, sponsors and donors for their continued support”.

The rallye is a modest navigational challenge on sealed roads, contested in any registered vehicle, with participants set a series of observational challenges, and several novelties including writing an amusing limerick and snapping point scoring selfies along the way.

The rallye has donated more than $1M to GV Hospice, over its 27 years of fun and challenge.

For those not attending this year, generous donations can still be made direct to GV Hospice, and there is also a major raffle underway, with $5 raffle tickets now in circulation and available throughout the district.

For more information about donations, raffle ticket sales or an entry form for this year’s event, please contact Kelvin Maude on 0418 992 270.

Autumn exhibition opens at Kaiela Arts

By Natasha Fujimoto

IN a telling and remarkable exhibition this Autumn, Kaiela Arts is proud to present Yenbenal Woka , Where People and Country Become One.

Launched as a part of this year’s Shepparton Festival, the exhibition opened last night, Tuesday March 21, and has brought together a collection of new contemporary works and displays reflecting the timelessness of connections between People and Country.

This is conveyed in the exhibition statement, “Ancestral stories, spirit, knowledge and histories run deep and intersect across Country, Skies, Rivers, Creeks...everything is connected...this is our Spirit, our Nanyak, our Creation, this is who we are...a timeless dimension, a place where People and Country become one.”

Paying homage to ancestors, ancient knowledge systems in contemporary form and bringing stories and Country to life with creative practices and techniques the exhibition showcases new solo works from Brett Wilson, ceramics from

2022 Kaiela artist in residence, Kirsten Perry.

Just one of the many highlights in Yenbenal Woka are the exquisite works created by Posca pens created by artists Tammy-Lee Atkinson, Suzanne Atkinson, Rochelle Patten Frances Nicholson, Cynthia Hardie, Laurel Robinson, Amy Briggs, Wendy –Sue Atkinson, April Atkinson, Cheryl-Lee Nicholson and many more.

Created by Kaiela artists, the vibrant Posca pen works, featuring acrylic backgrounds share a unique story or reflection of Yenebenal Woka.

Artist and Kaiela project manager, Tammy-Lee Atkinson said of her captivating piece entitled, Woka, “The painting represents the growth of trees and what is to come over the years, it also reflects rebirth, the past, present and the future.”

Yenbenal Woka is exhibiting at Kaiela Arts at the Shepparton Art Museum precinct from Wednesday, March 22 - Monday May 22, 2023, with an exhibition launch on Tuesday, March 21 from 6pm-8pm.

REFLECTING STORIES... of Yenbenal Woka, or where People and Country become one, the new, autumn exhibition at Kaiela Arts opened yesterday, Tuesday, March 21. Pictured are a selection of works created by Kaiela artists who have used Posca pens on an acrylic background to tell unique, ancestral stories. In the centre of the top row is artist Tammy-Lee Atkinson’s piece entitled, Woka, which represents the growth of trees and what is to come over the years.

Photo: Natasha Fujimoto

CAR WILL DO... Ian Powell and GV Hospice President Jeanette Powell with their Mercedes C250, GV Hospice Rallye Committee members Min Innes-Irons and Kelvin Maude with their 1925 Fiat 501 and 1964 MGB respectively, outside the business of Sounds Around, a regular contributor

Greater Shepparton’s newest youth space

continued from front page SPEAKING at the launch, Nick Gray, executive director corporate services at GOTAFE, emphasised the significance of the joint commitment to supporting young people in the community.

“GOTAFE and the Greater Shepparton Lighthouse Project share the same focus on ensuring people have opportunities to discover their full potential. Together, we are putting resources and strategies in place to address some of the issues impacting young people and will improve the future for all generations to come,” Mr Gray said.

Amy Robinson, executive officer at Greater Shepparton Lighthouse Project, echoed Gray's sentiments and emphasised that, "Young people own this space. Our consultation and co-design process with young people in various settings and with GOTAFE staff and students has shaped the physical space and the manner and content of engagement. We will continue to listen and adapt to ensure we meet the ongoing needs of our young people."

For the latest updates follow the OLLY Facebook page at www.facebook.com/ OllyShepparton.

Shine a light on lymphoedema

IF you’ve not heard of the condition lymphoedema, you’re not alone. Hundreds of people are diagnosed with it every year due to cancer treatment, trauma or underdeveloped lymphatics. Even after diagnosis, people are left with a dearth of knowledge and treatment options.

Lymphoedema is the term given to swelling resulting from malfunction of the lymphatic system, caused by underdevelopment or damage. It is characterised by painful swelling in the extremities (arms and/or legs).

Many people have lymphoedema due

of damage to the lymph nodes caused by surgery and/or radiotherapy. In fact, it is estimated that 24 percent of cervical cancer patients and 20 percent of breast cancer patients develop lymphoedema, as well as up to 29 percent of melanoma patients. It is estimated that 1 in 6,000 people are born with the condition.

A national campaign to draw attention to the condition during the month of March saw over 60 landmarks across Australia are being lit blue, including a tree in Monash Park and a Mooroopna water tower.

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.

COUNTRY MUSIC FOR CHARITY...

1-4pm on Thursday, March 30, featuring guest artist, Kerran Keats at the Cricketers Arms Hotel, Mooroopna. Doors open at

11.30am with meals at noon. Entry is $10 with all proceeds going to The Homeless Aged. Bookings to Joyce on 040 821 8411.

Escape to peace & tranquility

LIT UP IN BLUE... A national campaign to draw attention to lymphoedema during the month of March will see over 60 landmarks across Australia lit up in blue, including a tree in Monash Park and this Mooroopna water tower. Photo: Supplied

HELPING LOCAL YOUTHS... OLLY is an evolution of Lighthouse’s Haven program, and the new partnership with GOTAFE provides strengthened links to employability training and will assist with connecting young people with their first job. Greater Shepparton Lighthouse Project board chair Adam Furphy and executive director corporate services at GOTAFE Nick Gray at last week’s launch. Photo: Supplied

Such is the power of writing

By Natasha Fujimoto

CALLING down the corridors of time, once again to entice writers of all ages to pen a good yarn or to compose an engaging piece of poetry is the ‘Father of the Australian novel,’ Jospeh Furphy.

Having published, Such is Life in 1903 and famous for touting, ‘everyone can write at least one good story,’ The Furphy Literary Awards were established in 1992 in the author’s honour and have since gone on to be one of the most esteemed and lucrative writing competitions in the country.

With submissions already being accepted for the Open Short Story category until Sunday, April 30, entries for the four youth categories have also opened, closing on Wednesday, May 31 at 11.59pm.

The four categories for young writers include Junior Short Story for writers 12 and under,

Youth Short Story and Youth Poetry for writers 13-17 years.

Avidly judging the Junior Short Story category for the last 17 years, local author and president of the Goulburn Valley Writers Group, Suellen Drysdale said, “Every time I sit down to read the entries I’m blown away by the imagination and creativity of young people.

“Sometimes, I have to stop myself and think, was this really written by someone who’s 12 or under?”

Reading every submission, Suellen said entries customarily reflect ideas ranging from fantasy and space adventures to real life dramas of school, family, friends or pets as well as historical events fictionalised through a single viewpoint of one character.

When asked what makes a contender for the short list, Suellen said, “I look for a polished story, one with a good

storyline, a fascinating idea and good characters, brought full circle to a satisfying conclusion.”

Wake up with The Adviser and ONE FM

DID you know that in addition to getting your free community news online and in the weekly newspaper edition, you can catch the news update every week with One FM Breakfast announcer, Terri Cowley.

Every Wednesday at 8am after the newspaper has gone out to the public, Terri chats with Will and Geoff Adams of The Adviser to hear what’s making news around the region.

One FM is now one of regional

Australia’s largest community radio stations catering to the Goulburn and Murray Valley regions with “live” and local content 24-hours a day, seven days a week.

You can listen to Terri Cowley live on weekday mornings from 6am-9am, or catch the free podcast on Soundcloud.com/ user-570295409

To learn more or to listen, please visit fm985.com.au.

AIR... Every Wednesday at 8am One FM

To enter, you can visit www. furphyliteraryaward.com.au/ junioryouth

ON THE

breakfast presenter, Terri Cowley chats with Will and Geoff Adams of The Adviser to hear what’s making news around the region. You can listen to Terri Cowley live on weekday mornings from 6am-9am, or stream the free podcast on Soundcloud. Photo: Supplied

PROMOTING AND EMBODYING THE LOVE OF WRITING... Local author, Suellen Drysdale (right)

Minister opens ‘final stage’ of GV Health but ‘job half done’

GV HEALTH’S $230M redevelopment was touted as stage one, however, the opening line of Ms Thomas’ media release put to rest any hopes of further development, saying, “Families across the Goulburn Valley now have better access to world-class emergency care and facilities, with the final stage of the Andrews Labor Government’s redevelopment almost complete.”

Ms Thomas avoided answering questions regarding the next stage of GV Health’s redevelopment.

“I’m here at the completion of what has been a major investment in Goulburn Valley Health and our government is committing more money than has ever committed before to improve health infrastructure right across the state,” she said.

“The government has made a significant investment in Goulburn Valley Health, but there is always more to do, and as I travel around the state, I’m very happy to meet with boards and CEOs and talk about

their future needs

and to take all those into consideration.”

She said the State Government’s $25M investment for the future construction of an early parenting centre, new aged care facilities in Numurkah and a primary care centre showed their support of the region.

State Member for Northern Victoria, Wendy Lovell, has hit back saying, “It is insulting for Labor to expect the Goulburn Valley community to celebrate what is currently a job half done.”

With the State Budget to be delivered in May, Ms Lovell is calling on the Andrews Government to commit funding to the complete hospital redevelopment, and she is also seeking for the GV Health Masterplan to be released publicly.

Ms Thomas officially opened GV Health’s redeveloped emergency department on Thursday, March 16. The redevelopment is fully operational and has doubled the emergency department’s capacity, with 44

new treatment spaces, nine short-stay beds for patients who require care for less than 24-hours, and the latest technology with

GV Health redevelopment incomplete, says Lovell

MEMBER for Northern Victoria, Wendy Lovell, has criticised the State Government, saying that, “Goulburn Valley residents have every right to be concerned by the Andrews Labor Government’s lack of commitment to deliver the full redevelopment of GV Health.”

“Disturbingly, a media release issued by Health Minister MaryAnne Thomas announced the final completion of GV Health’s redevelopment, referring to the works as the ‘final stage’ of the redevelopment,” said Wendy, saying the statement is incorrect and misleading.

“Current work at GV Health is just stage one of the hospital’s redevelopment, and it is insulting for Labor to expect

the Goulburn Valley community to celebrate what is currently a job half done.

“For GV Health to deliver the best possible health outcomes for our community, the Andrews Labor Government needs to commit significant funding for the completion of the hospital and a Clinical Health School.

“La Trobe University studies show that those who train in regional areas are more likely to stay there. It is critically important that the Andrews Labor Government provide immediate funding to establish a Clinical Health School on the Graham Street site.”

“This will help address the dire shortage of local nurses,

midwives and allied health workers and help build our health workforce now and into the future.

“With the State Budget to be delivered in May, I call on the Andrews Labor Government to include in the Budget a funding commitment that will fully complete the redevelopment of GV Health,” said Ms Lovell in a media statement.

Some components she said that still need to be funded to complete the redevelopment include increased acute and subacute inpatient capacity, additional places for ambulatory care services for clinics, community health, chronic disease management and allied health, additional car parking and a helipad, and more administration areas.

two new x-ray rooms, a CT scan room and ultrasound room.

OPENING TOUR... Victorian Health Minister Mary-Anne Thomas pictured on-site at GV Health to officially open the redeveloped emergency department. Photo: Deanne Jeffers

Special solo show opens at SAM

By Deanne Jeffers

TWO extraordinary new exhibitions opened at Shepparton Art Museum (SAM) over the weekend. ELEVATION by Ash Keating is a new solo exhibition that interprets the landscape of Yorta Yorta Country/the Goulburn Valley through Keating’s signature abstraction style.

Since 2015, Keating has developed a distinct and specialised methodology for creating paintings with atmospheric compositions. Working with a technique he

has named Gravity System Response (GSR), Keating applies paint to surfaces through an airless sprayer, augmenting areas by erasing or breaking down paint by applying water.

ELEVATION presents a new series of large-scale paintings, which form an interconnected series of panoramas as you walk through the gallery space.

Keating’s affinity for the region’s landscape was formed at an early age; the artist recalls accompanying his grandmother – a pilot – in light-aircraft flights over

CREATION... Artist Ash Keating pictured in his studio, 2023. Keating’s new solo show at SAM, ELEVATION, presents a new series of large-scale paintings that interprets the landscape of Yorta Yorta Country/the Goulburn Valley through Keating’s signature abstraction style, forming an interconnected series of panoramas as you walk through the gallery space. Photo: Michael Pham. Courtesy of the artist.

Victoria’s high country. Also now open to the public is SAM’s new collection exhibition Dance Me to The End of Love , reflecting on the cycles of life through objects in the SAM collection, including the hyperrealist Mother and Child by Sam Jinks.

Dance Me to the End of Love is showing until February 24, and ELEVATION is on show at SAM until June 2023. Both exhibitions are free to visit.

Find more information at sheppartonartmuseum.com.au

A walk and a talk in memory of those lost to suicide

By Natasha Fujimoto

NO stranger to giving a helping hand, tireless community volunteer, Steve Neff has a favourite saying, “What we do for ourselves dies with us, what we do for others, lives on forever.”

For the last 12 years, Steve has spent every Sunday afternoon travelling to Bendigo, to answer calls for Lifeline, Loddon Mallee.

Providing lifesaving support via the 13 11 14 crisis line, Steve has been at the coal face of suicide prevention and said, “Lifeline is the most important thing I’ve ever done in my life.

“Lifeline is a 24-hour service and I like to think that I’m a part of an organisation that’s held in high regard. When we take a call, it’s like two strangers having a chat – we do what we can to ease caller distress.”

With suicide rates doubling since Covid and with growing

financial stress increasingly contributing to caller anguish, Steve said there has never been a more pressing time for people to volunteer as crisis support operators as well work to eradicate the stigma associated with talking about suicide, fostering prevention, and enabling families to heal.

With these aims in mind, Steve is proud to present, Neffy’s Walk-Let’s talk! on Saturday, April 29 at Victoria Park in Shepparton.

A suicide prevention and awareness event, Neffy’s Walk – Let’s Talk! will feature a memorial candle walk for loved ones lost to suicide while Lifeline, Loddon Mallee crisis support operators as well as chaplains will be on hand to listen and chat for those in need.

With all welcome, all proceeds raised during the event will go towards training much needed crisis support telephone operators.

Starting at 4pm until 7pm, attendees can walk for as long

or short a time as they wish. For additional information call Steve Neff on 040 0314858.

BREAKING DOWN THE STIGMA AROUND SUICIDE IN THE NAME OF HEALING AND PREVENTION... Neffy’s Walk-Let’s talk! is the first event of its kind in Shepparton and is a memorial candle walk for loved ones lost to suicide. Lifeline crisis support telephone operators, counsellors and chaplains will be walking at the event for those in need and all proceeds will go towards training more, much needed Lifeline staff. Photo: Supplied

Dookie added to list of world stages

AUSTRALIAN mezzo-soprano opera singer Allegra Giagu has performed on some of the world’s most prestigious stages – including the Sydney Opera House and London’s West End. Now, Giagu, along with ensemble Mamás Bravas, can add Dookie to the list.

¡Ópera Española! (translated to Spanish Opera) at Tallis Wine in the Dookie Hills on March 24 will be an immersive and vibrant fiesta of music and dance from two ensembles, along with paella, platters and wine.

The event is brought to local audiences as part of 2023’s Shepparton Festival, however the story of how this baroque style of Spanish music can be enjoyed in modern times dates back centuries.

The vitality of Spanish music in this period may only be revealed by understanding

the performance as a whole: A fantastical celebration of dance, music, acting and often circus, which calls for the audience to be invested and involved.

“This style of Iberian Baroque music saw people from all levels of society spill out on the street together and dance. Much of this repertoire was lost in the 1700’s,” explained Giagu.

“Due to severe controls and prohibitive costs of printing in Spain at that time, it was common for just one copy of musical compositions to be printed and housed in national libraries.

Following the fires which destroyed the Royal Library and Music Archive of the Alcázar palace in Madrid in 1734, and the earthquake of 1755 which took with it the library of King John IV

of Portugal, hundreds and thousands of musical records were lost.”

The works presented in this program then, have quite literally risen from the ashes.

“It is an incredible honour to present them to the community as we have interpreted them, and we hope you will feel inspired and deeply satisfied as you join us on this musical journey," said Giagu.

The first performance at Shepparton Festival’s ¡Ópera Española! unearths this rediscovered repertoire, with Giagu’s voice and the Mamas

A DELIGHT FOR THE SENSES...¡Ópera Española! (translated to Spanish Opera) at Tallis Wine in the Dookie Hills on March 24 will be an immersive and vibrant fiesta of music and dance from two ensembles, along with paella, platters and wine. To book tickets, head to sheppartonfestival.org. au. Photo: Deanne Jeffers

Bravas ensemble of instruments, including Baroque violin, oboe and harp – along with theorbo (a stringed lute-like instrument), guitar and percussion from world-renowned musicians.

The second, Eterno Flamenco, explores a universe of music and dance; presented by acclaimed dancers, Chantelle Cano and Johnny Tedesco (Arte Kanela) and renowned guitarist, Gerard Mapstone. Tickets to ¡Ópera Española! are on sale now via the Shepparton Festival website.

Fruitful rootstock promises grower variety

BRINGING the dedication and expertise that only a family run enterprise can bring with over 50 years' experience, Olea Nurseries Manjimup provides quality wholesale fruit trees to commercial growers while diligently working to present new varieties and rootstocks.

Perfect for winter planting, the team at Olea Nurseries is pleased to introduce the Bingo Gala apple.

Originating from South Africa, the full cherry red, stable Gala mutation yields a crisp, fragrant and sweet cream flesh. Grown on most popular rootstocks, the fruit is of typical Gala size with a flat-globose shape.

In full bloom from early to mid-October the fruit is well served by a one-pick strategy and is ready to harvest in mid-February.

Wanting to try even more new apples? Alvina Gala apples have proven their worth over the last few years and are visually

striking with a solid red blush.

This medium conical/globose apple is sweet and juicy with a cream flesh and suits rootstocks M26 and Nic®29. Alvina Gala Apples thrive on upright, spreading trees and are characterised by medium, vigorous growth.

Originating from New Zealand and producing a bright pinkred skin with white-cream coloured flesh are the late variety Lady in Red apples. A grower friendly fruit, it is a mutation of the Cripps pink apple and has a high proportion of its crop picked in the first of its two-pick strategy.

Lady in Red apples are a match for rootstocks CG202, M26, MM102 and MM106.

Pears are also available for winter planting at Olea Nurseries with Packham Triumph and Josephine on dwarf Quince rootstock ready to be ordered and delivered.

INTRODUCING THE BINGO

GALA APPLE AND READY TO TRIAL... Olea Nurseries

Manjimup bring the expertise and dedication that only a family business with over 50 years experience can bring with a range of fruit trees and rootstock on offer for commercial growers. Photo: Supplied

To trial Bingo apples and to place an order at Olea Nurseries Manjimup, call (08) 9772 1207 or email sales@oleanurseries. com.au.

Huge, walk-in recruitment drive at GV Health

JOBSEEKERS can connect with the region’s largest employer, Goulburn Valley Health, when it holds its Jobs@GV Health Day next Wednesday.

GV Health has many positions available and is currently hiring administration staff, customer service staff, kitchen staff, cleaners, volunteer opportunities and many more positions across the hospital.

“We need staff across a huge range of departments,” said Tess Simkin, GV Health’s manager of talent acquisition.

“It’s a common misconception that you need to have a medical background to work at GV Health or that we’re only recruiting nurses and doctors. But the reality is that we offer a vast array of career opportunities.

"Running a health service is a big operation and we need a diverse set of skills to make it all happen. And of course, we always want to hear from healthcare workers. We're encouraging jobseekers or people thinking about a career change to come and meet our team at the Jobs@GV

EXPLORE CAREER OPPORTUNITIES... If you’re considering a career change or have ever dreamed of working at GV Health, be sure to put Jobs@GV Health Day in your calendar for next Wednesday, March 29. 11am to 2pm jobseekers can apply for onthe-spot jobs, get help with applications, sign up to volunteer or talk with GV Health staff about the opportunities available.

Pictured is GV Health’s manager of talent acquisition, Tess Simkin. Photo: Supplied

Health Day and learn about the jobs we have on offer."

Jobseekers can get help with applications, apply for on-the-spot jobs, sign up to volunteer or talk with GV Health staff about the opportunities available. Plus, enjoy a free BBQ!

Jobs@GV Health Day is on 11am-2pm, Wednesday March 29 at GV Health (Graham Street, Shepparton).

To register your interest in attending, visit facebook.com/GoulburnValleyHealth/ events

For more information about job vacancies, visit gvhealth.org.au/careers

Tatura’s history comes to life on the stage

By Deanne Jeffers

FROM 1939 to 1947, internment camps in Tatura held around 8,000 men, women and children at any one time, both prisoners of war and “enemy aliens.”

This part of the region’s history was brought to life in Driftwood the Musical, which tells the inspirational story of Austrian/Australian sculptor Karl Duldig and his artist/inventor wife, Slawa Horowitz-Duldig, who invented the foldable umbrella in Vienna in 1929, miraculously escaped the Nazis and Holocaust, and rebuilt their lives in Australia.

Having experienced great popularity last year, the play will return to Chapel off Chapel (Prahran, Melbourne) May 3-30,

before touring Sydney and then heading to New York.

“It was lovely to see some many people coming from Shepparton to see the show last year,” said distinguished soprano Tania de Jong AM, who plays her grandmother, Slawa, in the adaption of her mother’s original memoir.

Those interested in creativity, invention, magical storytelling, musical theatre or history, particularly WWII, do not want to miss this uplifting and powerful show.

This is the last chance local audiences will have before Driftwood heads overseas. Tickets are on sale now, with discounts for groups of 10 or more. To book or to view the trailer, please visit driftwoodthemusical.com.au

CAPTIVATING SHOW… Eve de JongDuldig photographed with her mother, Slawa Horowitz-Duldig, the inventor of the foldable umbrella. Photo: Supplied.

NAB SOME GREAT BARGAINS... It’s time again for Phillip’s Cellars and Regional Wine Centre massive ‘Cleanskin Wine Sale’. The top wines that comprise the sale have been personally selected by Paul for their superb quality.

Most wonderful time of year

ALMOST as good as Christmas, it’s time again for Phillip’s Cellars and Regional Wine Centre massive ‘Cleanskin Wine Sale’.

The top wines that comprise the sale have been personally selected by Paul for their quality and value.

“We have managed to secure some top tier wines for this sale,” said Paul.

“There is something for all tastes, and with prices starting from only $8, and the added bonus of getting one free bottle with every dozen purchased, it’s the perfect time to stock up.”

The six whites on offer include Adelaide Hills Chardonnay, Clare Valley Reisling, Adelaide Hills Rose, King Valley Pinot Grigio, Adelaide

Hills Sauvignon Blanc and Adelaide Hills Moscato.

The six reds on offer include Goulburn Valley Shiraz, Riverina Pinot Noir, Heathcote Shiraz, Dookie Shiraz, Riverland Cabernet Merlot and Riverland Cabernet.

The three sparkling wines are prosecco, a sparkling shiraz and a sparkling white.

To avoid disappointment, head in store as these super deals will only run while stocks last. For further information, call Paul on 5821 2051 or visit Phillips Cellars and Regional Wine Centre, 119 Corio Street, Shepparton. The store is open Monday to Friday from 9am-6pm and on Saturdays from 9am-3pm.

Easter celebrations sorted

MANSFIELD is under an hour and a half away from Shepparton, and is home to some of the most breath-taking views in Victoria.

A guided day walk is the perfect way to experience the Mansfield region on foot. Simone (Monnie) Richardson was born in Mansfield and offers walks and tours for beginners though to experienced bushwalkers for a duration of 1.5hr through to full day walks.

“I was inspired to create something new for locals, visitors and educators, giving them the confidence to venture out into our beautiful bushland. After many walks, with hundreds of people of all ages, sharing our regions natural environment and boutique hospitality venues has been a very rewarding job," explained Monnie.

"Being able to adapt a day/half day

program to meet a group (or individual’s needs) has been both rewarding and inspiring. Our region is renowned for nature play with its unique network of rivers, lakes and breath-taking mountainous terrain. Take time to connect with nature for a little while before indulging in the generous hospitality our region is famous for.”

Make the most of your Easter break and organise a walk and winery visit, complete with a glass of local bubbles, a cheese platter, and a 3-4-hour guided walk to either a picturesque waterfall or mountain top with Monnie.

For more information, visit mansfieldbushwalks.com.au or call 0480 226 256. Monnie is able to cater for both couples and group bookings, give her a call to discuss your package options.

EXPERIENCE THE HIGH COUNTRY ON FOOT…Only a 1.5 hour drive away from Shepparton, Simone (Monnie) Richardson offers walks and tours for beginners through to experienced bushwalkers in the Mansfield region. Photo: Supplied

ROUND UP

LUCKY ONES GET CAUGHT

Sadly 75 lives have been lost on Victorian roads so far this year, and many other road users have sustained serious injuries on our roads. Police are disappointed that some drivers continue to make poor decisions on our roads, with speeding offences the main theme of offending.

Thursday morning Benalla Highway Patrol members detected a vehicle travelling on the Hume Freeway at 145 km/h in the north bound lanes at Winton. The driver received a $601 and will lose their licence for 3 months.

Police detected 352 offences across our division during Operation Arid, which ran over the Labour Day long weekend. During this period 5,239 Preliminary Breath Tests were conducted with 10 drivers returning positive results for drug or drink driving.

A 52-year-old woman from Seymour returned an alleged reading of 0.055 at a PBT site on Saturday night. She had he licence immediately suspended for six months and is expected to be charged on summons for drink driving offences.

In the past week, we saw a number of varied causations of collisions on our roads, with two motorcycles colliding with animals, two headon collisions, one off-road motorcycle collision, one rolled vehicle, one car into wire barrier and one pedestrian struck by a reversing vehicle. While some people have had their driving privileges removed, we ask our other road users to TRAVELSAFE, make good decisions about driving and don’t take risks. People need to consider the tyranny of distance along with fatigue prior to driving to ensure you're fit to drive

Shepparton festival officially underway

SHEPPARTON Festival’s 27th year is now in full swing, with a successful opening night last Thursday at the Festival Hub in Edward Street.

After the opening, many headed to Shepparton Brewery to round out the evening with tasty food and drinks. The Festival Hub features artwork exhibited from the ‘Call to Create’ program, the wonderful Collective Community Heart by Nathan Carkeek and Dery Theodorus, and Reflecting Resilience by Greater Shepparton Lighthouse Project.

The festival will run until April 2. Be inspired, entertained and enlivened. With an abundance of performance, art, culture and food in store. This year’s celebration is a feast for the senses.

Explore unique events in unusual places around the Goulburn Valley including music, theatre, comedy, exhibitions and workshops.

Amongst the line-up of performances, live music, exhibitions, workshops, and

experiences, highlights include a Spanish Opera at Tallis Wines performed by Allegra Giagu and Mamás Bravas, a Multicultural Comedy Gala featuring big names in comedy like Dilruk Jayasinha and Ivan Aristeguieta,

Protecting trees of great significance

LANDHOLDERS are being urged by the Goulburn Broken Catchment Management Authority (GBCMA) and its partners to be vigilant about protecting paddock trees, especially when burning off stubble.

Paddock trees are a significant feature in our agricultural landscapes, not only because of their aesthetic appeal, but also, as a habitat for wildlife.

They contain cultural heritage and deliver a range of ecosystem services, such as shade and shelter for stock and erosion control.

Despite the proven value of paddock trees and legislative measures aimed at protecting

them, there remains significant threats to their viability, including stubble burning and illegal removal.

Recommending that every effort must be made to protect paddock trees from the impact of stubble burning, the GBCMA advises establishing a gap in vegetation or fire break with no less than 3m cleared of all flammable material (on the applicants land) and ensuring fires are monitored continuously until they are completely extinguished.

Your festival calendar

art exhibitions featuring local artists like Tori Day, Rachel Doller and Tammy-Lee Atkinson, and much more. Explore the full program and purchase tickets at sheppartonfestival.org.au.

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

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

Friday 17th March, 10am-12pm

Private landholders must remember to strictly adhere to regulations or laws by CFA, Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action, and their local council.

SAFEGUARDING

At a Pinch -Ceramics workshop with Kaye Poulton

INVALUABLE TREES IN THE PADDOCK...

Friday 17th March, 7pm Firetail –Live Music

With aesthetic appeal, paddock trees are also habitat for wildlife. Goulburn Broken Catchment Management Authority offer invaluable advice to landholders on how to protect these significant agricultural features ahead of stubble burning.

Supplied

Friday 17th March, 6pm – 9pm

Landholders are also reminded that they are soley responsible for the safety and

Saturday 18th March, 4pm - 10pm Converge on the Goulburn

liability of their fires and any damages or caused by the fire or escaping embers.

– Workshop with Splinter Contemporary Artists

Lovell MP

Multicultural Comedy Gala featuring Dilruk Jayasinha, Ivan Aristeguieta, Tahir, Jeff Green, Dora Smith, Ben Lomas

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

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

–a museum experience with culture,

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

Friday 24th March,

Photo:

Griffith Easter Party is a multi-day celebration of fun festivities for the whole family over the Easter weekend, and is well worth making a trip to Griffith.

Celebrating the end of vintage, Griffith Easter Party brings you a host of entertainment, activities, demonstrations, wine and food. There is something for everyone! Follow the QR code for the full program.

1800 681 141 GriffithEasterParty.com.au

What’s on NEW IN THE GOULBURN VALLEY

LEARN TO PLAY BRIDGE

Weekly Wednesdays 6.30pm-8.30pm

until 19th April 2023

U3A House, 14 Esson st, Shepparton.

Contact Nick Walsh 58222363 / 0436 347 621 or John Moore 0438 455 741 sheppartonbridgeclub@gmail.com

EASTER SATURDAY - APRIL 8, 2023

Vintage: 1pm-3pm Modified: 3.30pm-10pm

• NOGLASS

• NOPETS

• NO BYO

ALCOHOL

• NOEFTPOS

Full catering • Bar facilities

Enquiries: 0428 510 276 or 0428 377 342

Tickets available through Ticketebo

PROUDLYSUPPORTED BY

Bowls

Contact Graeme 0408 034 831 (over 55 to join yearly $10.00)

Skies roar to life over Benalla

By Deanne Jeffers

THE INAUGURAL Benalla Airshow

took off on Saturday, drawing crowds of over 2,500, with around 30 aircraft having flown into the event.

Spectators were wowed by aerobatic stunts performed by some of Australia’s top champion pilots, including Paul Bennett, a hot air balloon launch in the morning, plus modern and historic gliders, rare and unique warbirds and other aircraft to explore, and markets and street food.

The event was originally planned for 2022, to coincide with the Gliding Club of Victoria’s 70th anniversary in Benalla.

Benalla Airshow event facilitator, Bruce Cowan of the Gliding Club of Victoria, said attendance was less than expected, likely due to the heat, with the mercury soaring past 37 degrees on Saturday.

“We were very happy with the result. It was overwhelming being able to give back to the town,” said Mr Cowan.

He hopes that the airshow may become a regular part of the annual Benalla Festival.

“It was great to celebrate 70 years of the Gliding Club of Victoria in Benalla, and to partner with the local Council and Paul Bennett Airshow to put on a tremendous show for all,” Mr Cowan said.

people come along to see daring aerobatic stunts performed by some of

top champion pilots. Photos: Deanne Jeffers

Do you have a hunger to learn and a thirst for knowledge?

Do you want to launch your career at the home of VEGEMITE and Dare Iced Coffee?!

The Bega Group is thrilled to announce applications for our 2023 Graduate Program is now open!

We are in high growth mode at the Bega Group, we need ambitious and determined graduates to join our dedicated workforce, qualified and available to start a permanent role in September 2023

We are currently taking applications for the following graduate positions:

Environmental Engineer (Tatura)

Operations Graduate (Tatura)

Graduate Engineer (Strathmerton)

To apply, go to: https://begagroup.com.au/ careers/current-vacancies-2/ begagroup.com.au

JACARANDA TREES 1.5m tall, $20 Ph 0427 319 050

LG dvd/vcr player as new $40 Ph 0418 681 686

MAIDENHAIR ferns x 3 $8 each Ph 0432 797 138

MYNA BIRD TRAPS $50 Mooroopna Men's Shed Ph Michael 0418 993 692

MYNA BIRD TRAPS $55 Mooroopna Men's Shed Ph Michael 0418 993 692

GARAGE SALE

RYOBI whipper snipper electric excellent condition 500w $50 ph 0414 851 865

WALKER very good condition Shepparton area $40 Ph 0409 334 018

WORM JUICE excellent for flower beds and vegetable gardens, $4 for two litres Ph 0417 214 983

How to place Classifieds line ad

GARAGE SALE In home moving sale good variety make an offer 10.00am7.00pm 7 days 103 Riverview Rd Kialla

GARAGE SALE Sunday 26th March 9am - 2pm 75A O'Reilly Rd Tatura House clearance owners moving overseas.

Business Manager

The successful applicant will:

PET ADVERTISERS PLEASE NOTE: As of July 2019, it is now a requirement under the Domestic Animals Act 1994, that an advertisement must include the unique source number (required from the Pet Exchange Register) of the seller and the individual microchip number of each cat or dog being sold or given away. These requirements apply to puppies and kittens

PUBLIC NOTICES

FURNISHED FAMILY HOME FOR RENT

Fully furnished 4 bedroom family home. 2 living areas, 2 bathrooms plus a study. Available for 3- 6 month lease from April. House consists of 2 queen beds, 2 single

and a cot. Can add/remove

SEEKING PASSIONATE SUPPORT WORK ERS

Calvar y Home Care is seeking Support Workers. You’ll assist diverse clients, including aged and high-needs individuals, with daily living activities. This includes providing support services, such as domestic assistance, social support, respite, personal care and disabilit y services both in their homes and in the community.

WE OFFE R

•Flexible permanent part-time positions

•Travel and mileage allowance for reasonable travel between client homes

•Local work near your residence (where possible)

•Openings for both qualified and unqualified Suppor t Workers

•Trainee arrangement available for unqualif ied Suppor t Workers to obtain a Certif icate III in Individual Support

•Discounted gym memberships and health insurance.

REFRIGERATION & AIR CONDITIONING

14. NIPPER HARVEY 6 INTERSPORT SHEPPARTON

15. GARY HALLUM 6 SURDEX STEEL

16. KIERAN MOON 6 HARVEY NORMAN ELECTRICAL

17. MIKE TIMOTHEE 6 LOAN MARKET

B u y i n g y u r f i r s t h o m e is s not t impossible. .

C o n t a c t y o u r l o c a l L o a n M a r ke t b r o ke r

SPORT

Changes to fixture

By Deanne Jeffers

THE 2023 GOTAFE Goulburn Valley League season kicks off Easter weekend, with the first matches to be played on Good Friday, April 7.

Despite hopes that Princess Park would be up to scratch, round one Shepparton Swans v. Mooroopna Cats will now be played at Mooroopna on Easter Saturday.

“We’re disappointed because we hoped since everything that the team has been through with the floods, that we’d be able to welcome everyone back and see the stands packed with supporters,” said Shepparton Swans president, Jarrod Sutherland.

“We’re still waiting for temporary change rooms to arrive. It’s better to make the decision to move the games rather than cancel closer to the date. We still need our netball courts to be resurfaced, and the grounds are just not in the best condition yet.”

A GV/L spokesperson said, “The round

one match Shepparton Swans v Mooroopna scheduled to be played under lights at Princess Park Shepparton will now be played at Mooroopna Recreation Reserve. These matches will remain as night games (as scheduled). The round 13 match between both clubs will be moved to Princess Park.”

“All stakeholders have been working hard to make the venue ready for round one post floods. Greater Shepparton City Councils Sports & Parks team have put in a herculean effort post floods to get the facilities ready "Moving round one's games will allow the venue an additional two weeks to recover and complete outstanding works before the Swans host Mansfield,” they said.

Other fixture changes include the Benalla v. Seymour match will now be played on Good Friday in Benalla, and the Kyabram v. Echuca match in round two will now be played at night.

Hitting every target on his way to success

By Natasha Fujimoto

INTRODUCED to target clay shooting at a young age by his sporting grandfather, 21-year-old Xavier Russell from Mooroopna has had a stellar career.

Beginning at the tender age of 12, the young Xavier soon began accumulating a swag of national and international titles, developing his marksmanship with natural talent and deft dedication.

Attaining the Junior National Championship title in 2018 from the Australian Clay Target Association (ACTA), Xavier went on to win titles around the world, competing in various disciplines while also being team selected for the World Championships in 2019.

Claiming the ACTA Junior title for a second time in 2020 at the grand prix event, Xavier was inducted into the Greater Shepparton City Council’s Sports Hall of Fame in 2021.

On a meteoric rise from the start, 2022 was Xavier’s year to reach the

pinnacle of his craft. After taking out the honours in the FITASC sporting world championships (the formula one of clay shooting) in Italy and notching up competition points in Oceania and Thailand, Xavier was proclaimed the world’s Number One Junior in Clay Target Shooting by the year’s end.

Competing for prize money (a rarity in the sport) at the Fujairah Mountain Shooting Championships in Dubai earlier this year, Xavier again demonstrated his calibre in the sport, finishing third in the junior category amongst a sizeable, international field.

Recently entering his first open competition in Australia, Xavier said, “Soon I’ll be heading off to England and Hungary to compete, where there will be three world titles up for grabs in three weeks.

“I know it may take some time, but it is my goal to win a world title down the track.”

NUMBER ONE IN CLAY TARGET SHOOTING... Xavier Russell has a stellar career as a clay target shooter. With a swag of national and international titles under his belt, the young sportsman from Mooroopna is on his way to England and Hungary in the coming weeks to compete with the ultimate goal of one day winning a world title. Photo: Supplied