The Adviser 1658

Flying fit quicker with a little more help

By Natasha Fujimoto

SKILLED in all areas of wildlife rescue, rehabilitation and release, Bohollow Wildlife Shelter plays a standalone role, covering most of northern Victoria with its 24-hour rescue service as well as supporting other rescue centres state-wide with its specialist birds of prey and macropod care facilities. Continued Page 10

Anzac commemorations around the region Lest we

A NATIONAL day of remembrance, Anzac Day falls on April 25th every year and marks the anniversary of the first major military action fought by Australian and New Zealand forces during the First World War. Commemorative services are held across the nation at dawn, recognising the time of the original landing at Gallipoli. Later in the day, former servicemen and servicewomen participate in marches. These important ceremonies are times where Australians can reflect on the many different meanings of war and the sacrifice those who have served have made. Continued Page 5

Have you met gmcu’s new CEO, Ged Smith?

WE sat down with GMCU's CEO Gerard Smith for a chat about what he loves about working in the Goulburn Valley and being the leader of one of our region’s best-loved credit unions

WHERE ARE YOU FROM, AND HOW DID YOU FIND YOUR WAY TO SHEPPARTON?

I’m from Nyngan, in country NSW, and I have a strong connection with this region. Back in the 1800s, my great-grandfather was born and lived in Tongala, before eventually making his way to northern NSW.

Having had 30 years of experience in senior positions in the banking industry across Australia, and very committed to the credit union movement, I came to Shepparton to take up the job of CEO of GMCU.

WHAT PRIMARY, HIGH SCHOOL

AND UNI DID YOU ATTEND?

I attended St Josephs’ Primary, Nyngan, Nyngan High School and Red Bend Catholic College, University of Technology Sydney Bachelor of Education (Adult) and Charles Sturt University, where I studied a master's in management IT.

WHAT DO YOU DO HERE?

I’m the CEO of GMCU, one of our region’s best-loved credit unions.

WHAT’S THE BEST PART OF YOUR JOB?

Leading and empowering my team,

which allows them to support and empower our community with their finances. I also love to encourage diversity and inclusion in my team and in the wider community.

WHAT DO YOU ENJOY DOING OUTSIDE OF WORK?

I love being social and spending time with friends, and I’ve just completed my marriage celebrant's certificate.

WHAT’S YOUR FAVOURITE THING ABOUT SHEPPARTON?

There’s such a strong community connection in Shepparton. The warmth and friendliness from staff, customers and neighbours has all been so positive. I felt like I belonged straight away. Also, the community is so switched on and supportive of everything from the arts, through to sports and education.

WHAT’S ONE THING YOU WOULD CHANGE ABOUT SHEPPARTON TO IMPROVE IT?

I’d love to see more people come to Shepparton to live and experience our beautiful lifestyle and great community. But on second thoughts, I think I might like to keep that as our secret!

WHAT ARE THREE WORDS YOU WOULD USE TO DESCRIBE SHEPPARTON?

Friendly, community-minded and forward-looking.

Changed traffic conditions on Marlboro Drive in Kialla

MOTORISTS and residents of Kialla are advised of the ongoing traffic changes on Marlboro Drive due to upgrade works already underway.

Greater Shepparton City Council commenced works on Marlboro Drive between Kerang Avenue and Archer Road on Tuesday, April 11. The project includes upgrades to the road, kerb, channel, and drainage, along with construction of

footpaths and a roundabout at the Shiraz Drive intersection. Marlboro Drive is closed to through traffic from Kerang Avenue to Archer Road, and residents of Marlboro Drive and connected streets have limited access.

The project is expected to continue until late June 2023, weather permitting. For further information, please visit Council’s website or call the projects team on 5832 9700.

MEET GED SMITH... CEO of GMCU, one of our region’s best-loved credit unions, sat down with us for a chat. Photo: Deanne Jeffers

Instructor shortage reduces swimming lessons at Aquamoves

THE shortage of qualified swimming instructors at Aquamoves, operated by the Greater Shepparton City Council, has forced the cancellation of some swimming lessons from the start of Term Two, effecting lessons due to resume on Monday, April 15.

Council’s manager active living, David Booth said recruiting new swimming instructors is a high priority.

“The decision to reduce lessons was not made lightly. Recruitment and training for new swimming instructors is in progress, but we want to make sure all individuals are ready to teach at the highest level and training can take several months.”

“As our instructor numbers return to more sustainable levels, we will reach back out to families to re-enrol their children back into the program”, Mr Booth said.

Council encourages qualified swimming instructors interested in filling positions to reach out to Aquamoves by phoning 5832 9400 or emailing customerservice@aquamoves.com.au.

Individuals interested in a swimming instructor role are also urged to keep an eye out on future training opportunities. An upcoming ‘Swimming and Water Safety Teacher’ course will be held at Aquamoves on Saturday 15 April 2023 and enrolments can be made by visiting the Life Saving Victoria website: www. training.lsv.com.au/courseType=57277&instance_id=1933516

SHORTAGE OF SWIMMING INSTRUCTORS... at Aquamoves has resulted in the cancellation of some

WITH the rising cost of living taking its toll on many across the region, demand for food relief is on the rise, sadly with many people seeking out assistance for the first time.

While families are needing to make tough choices at the supermarket, buying cheaper processed food in lieu of more costly fresh produce, Australia’s largest hunger relief charity, Foodbank, estimates that 1.3M children across the nation are currently living in a household that is experiencing food insecurity.

With these distressing facts in mind, The Adviser, has asked locals to share their thoughts on how they are coping with inflation.

Local barista, Moira said, “Once

achievable goals are no longer realistic for me. With the high cost of living, I’ve had to reduce my expectations of the future for the sake of my survival and my sanity.”

“Planning and saving for the future has become increasingly difficult, especially as the cost of living gets higher and higher, inevitably I am forced to live from pay check to pay check,” concurred Greg, who works as a café manager.

For some individuals, like Tone, who is both a peer support worker and a bartender, even working two jobs is not enough as she said, “It is difficult to manage expenses that are essential to survive right now, let alone save money for life experiences.

THE RISING COST OF LIVING... is taking its toll across the region and indeed the entire country. With many people having to work two jobs to make ends meet, others are finding it difficult to find the funds to experience or even enjoy life. Photo: Supplied

“Increasingly, I am having to make personal sacrifices to even be able to make ends meet.”

When being employed, even with two jobs, is not enough

Stay faithful to the stories in your head-get writing!

By Natasha Fujimoto

WITH a love of word, a clever turn of phrase and an ability to persuade, narrate and/or describe with deft enjoyment, The Goulburn Valley Writers Group (GVWG) is an association of people, from all walks of life, who meet once a month to share their work and to promote the art of quality, creative writing.

Always ready to welcome new members or even a curious visitor, the GVWG aims to provide creative writing opportunities, often with the chance for its members to share their written musings and creative pieces, if they wish, in anticipation of discerning feedback

By Natasha Fujimoto

and instructive commentary.

Aside from stimulating the creative imagination, the GVWG also offers the chance for members to practise their craft alongside renown authors in a variety of seminars and workshops as well as receive advice about getting published in various media.

Established 40 years ago, the GVWG consists of a wide variety of experienced and novice writers, including Furphy Literary Award winners, novelists and renowned poets.

Helen Castles is an accomplished poet, who has won several prestigious awards and has had collections of her work published.

Despite her obvious talent and passion for

IT’S A VERY COOL THING TO BE A WRITER...and a whole lot of fun as the members of the Goulburn Valley Writers Group (GVWG) know well. Meeting every month, members and welcomed visitors enjoy all facets of creative writing, with author mentoring, workshops and seminars marking the calendar. Amongst a generous and friendly atmosphere, writers can share their work if they wish and can also invite feedback. Pictured from left is GVWC member, Jenni Ramsay with first-time visitor, Ceara Klassen. Both writers shared portions of their work during the latest meeting with feedback being well received from enthusiastic members. Photo: Natasha Fujimoto

poetry, Helen said it has been the GVWG, along with the mentorship of fellow member and poet, David Kelly, that has given her the self-assurance required to publicly distribute her work.

“Being a member of the GVWG has given me great confidence and I would never have published my poems without it. I have learned

to improve my poems and have learnt more importantly, how to finish them; it takes hours and hours of work for publication.”

For enquiries on how to become involved in the GVWG, head to www.gvwritersgroup. com/contact-us or email Robyn at gvwritersgroup@gmail.com.

Being scammed is not a personal failing

RECEIVING a required brain injury at birth, local resident Paul James has sadly been plagued by financial scammers, both online and by phone.

Falling prey to credit card fraud several times over the last few years, Paul was distraught in March when offshore scammers attempted to withdraw $20K from his personal account. Fortunately, Paul’s bank recognised the unusual withdrawal amount and put a hold on it.

Despite Paul’s repeated victimisation at the hands of scammers, financial counsellor at FamilyCare, Levi Boschetti said that while people with intellectual disability can be more

Early Years

susceptible to scams, the entire community remains at risk, as cybercrime becomes ever more prevalent and sophisticated.

“Romance scams, bank impersonation scams and text message scams are sent out to catch everyone, but I would assume they are more successful with vulnerable members of the community, including those with disabilities, the elderly, and the less educated.

“Recent arrivals and those with English as a second language also fall into this more vulnerable group,” Levi said. Stating that a lack of awareness, social isolation and/or generally being more trusting contributed to the likelihood of being scammed, Levi also said at risk individuals who had

been deceived once would more likely fall prey to subsequent attempts.

Nevertheless, as financial institutions continue to up the ante on personal security, Levi said it is important for victims of fraud not to feel at fault or ashamed.

“Scams are so prevalent and sophisticated that we can all be scammed no matter how intelligent or cautious we are. Falling victim to a scam is not a personal failing,” Levi said. To verify an unsolicited request for money or personal information, Levi advised trying to contact the caller or text back, using their advertised number, for example, to confirm their legitimacy before taking any requested action.

Earlier the

better for project manager

The evidence is clear - quality, playbased learning in the years leading up to school can make all the difference in the education outcomes of young people. That is why Early Years, covering the formative years from birth to Foundation (Prep), is one of the four key stages of the Shepparton Education Plan. The Plan has numerous working groups and projects under way. One of those is a 12-month Early Childhood Attendance study to determine the barriers some of our families experience in regularly accessing kindergarten services.

Project manager and qualified teacher Lara Campbell is conducting the study with six local kindergartens, developing best practice solutions set

to benefit generations of children. “Kindergarten is where children learn critical communication and social skills, building their confidence and sense of belonging,” Lara says.

“I’m proud to be leading a project so fundamental to success in school.”

Lara’s research will end in June, with findings and actions set to help more families put their children on an early path to lifelong learning.

The project has been delivered with thanks to Goulburn Regional Partnerships. Like the Shepparton Education Plan, Regional Partnerships recognise that local communities are best placed to manage their challenges and opportunities.

The Shepparton Education Plan – improving education outcomes & life opportunities from early years to adulthood

www.vic.gov.au/education-plans

Scan to learn more about the the importance of Early Years education

Lest we Forget

Anzac commemorations around the region

continued from front page

THIS Anzac Day, the Shepparton RSL club will be open from 6am, with the Digger’s Bistro open for lunch and dinner. Two-up will be played is the RSL carpark from 1pm.

Following the dawn service in Shepparton, there will be a special Gunfire Breakfast with $2 bacon and egg rolls and complimentary tea, coffee and juice. All proceeds go to the 2023 Anzac Appeal.

“The Gunfire Breakfast is going to be a fantastic event and a great opportunity for the local community to come together after the dawn service rather than everyone going their separate ways,” an RSL spokesperson said.

If you plan to attend a dawn or commemorative service, please be aware that seating will be provided for veterans and anyone else that would like to be seated through any service should bring their own chairs.

Shepparton dawn service

5.45am Assemble at the Victoria Hotel, cnr Wyndham and Fryers Streets.

5.50am Form up and march departs.

6.00am Dawn service at Memorial Park.

6.30am Conclusion of service.

Mooroopna Anzac Day service

8.30am Congragate in front of water tower

8.45am March to Memorial Park.

9.00am Service commences

9.30am Conclusion of service.

Shepparton commemorative service

10.20am Congragate in carpark at Shepparton RSL. Bus for those unable to march departs RSL.

10.40am Parade departs RSL for Memorial Park directly along Welsford Street.

11.00am Service commences

11.45am Conclusion of service.

A light lunch will be available in the Lone Pine Function Room at a cost of $5 per person. All proceeds to support Goulburn Valley Veterans Services.

For those unable to attend services in Shepparton and Mooroopna, there are commemorative services happening across the district. Check with your local RSL branch or community house for more information and additional events. Donations to support veterans and their families through the Anzac Appeal are welcome at anzacappeal.com.au

Merrigum – 10.30am at Merrigum Hall (98 Morrissey Street, Merrigum). Seating available. BYO wreath.

Tallygaroopna – Wreath laying ceremony at the Tallygaroopna Soldiers Memorial Hall at 11.30am. Followed by BBQ lunch provided by the Lions Club. Donations are welcome to cover costs. There will also be a historical display and people are welcome to bring any items or photos relating to the Hall to display. The Hall Committee is looking for information for a history book for the Hall’s Centenary in 2024.

Escape to peace & tranquility

Dine

•

•

WE WILL REMEMBER THEM... Commemorative services are held at dawn om April 25, recognising the time of the original landing at Gallipoli. Later in the day, former servicemen and servicewomen participate in marches. Pictured are local veterans Brian McInneny far left, Ray Sinclair centre and Len Taylor far right. Photo: Supplied

Share your experience of Victoria’s major floods with parliamentary inquiry

THE major flood events that occurred across Victoria last October are subject to a parliamentary inquiry, which is calling for public submissions until May 8, 2023.

The Legislative Council Environment and Planning Committee will investigate the state’s preparedness for and response to the disaster. Committee chair, Sonja Terpstra, said, “This inquiry will look into the flood event as a whole and the areas affected.”

“It will consider what caused or contributed to the flooding and the adequacy and effectiveness of early warning systems.”

Member for Euroa, Annabelle Cleeland, organised a roundtable with Seymour business owners impacted by the floods and to discuss the inquiry process.

Ms Cleeland outlined the importance of strong representation from the community, saying, “I’m encouraging everyone in the community to make a submission, drive change and make sure the committee undertaking this inquiry gets a clear message.”

“We cannot see flood events like this occur again without mitigation measures in place and serious reform to the system.”

She said concerns raised by businessowners included the lack of warning provided to the community, the slow response time from government agencies with recovery efforts, and that

insurance premiums have increased as a result.

Emergency services, government policy, flood mitigation strategies, the Flemington Racecourse flood wall and the Victorian Planning Framework will also be key to the inquiry. The committee is accepting written submissions until May

HAVE YOUR SAY ON FLOOD

EVENT... People from the community that were affected by last years’ flood event are encouraged to come forward and share their experiences, to inform future flood mitigation measures. Pictured is Member for Euroa, Annabelle Cleeland with members of the Seymour business community, who came together for a roundtable meeting to discuss the inquiry process and the impact October’s floods had on them. Photo: Supplied

8, 2023, and intends to hold public hearings in flood-affected regions.

For more information or to make a submission, go to the flood inquiry website: new.parliament.vic.gov.au/floodinquiry

Trick or Treat: Club’s first Dog Trick Trial a pawsome success!

By Deanne Jeffers

WHAT do you get when you mix April Fools' Day and a bunch of talented dogs? A howling good time.

On April 1, the Shepparton & District Obedience Dog Club held its first-ever Dog Trick Trial, and it was a howling success, with over 220 entries from various states, including NSW, Qld, Victorian regional areas

and Melbourne.

More than 80 talented pups with their enthusiastic owners showcased their skills, making it a difficult day for the judges and stewards. Nevertheless, the event was a success, with many club members returning home with ribbons, sashes, and the best dog award.

Dog Trick Trials encourage owners and

their pups to form a strong bond and improve communication. No matter the dog's age or the handler's skill level, all were able to compete on an equal footing, making it an inclusive and fun environment.

If you're a dog lover that would like to get involved, Shepparton & District Obedience Dog Club is situated on Chas Johnson Reserve, Packham Street, Shepparton and

meet Sunday mornings at 9am. Newcomers are welcome starting on the first Sunday of the month.

The club teaches all levels of obedience to competition standard, plus agility, jumping, rally-o, tracking, scent work, and tricks. For further details, check out their Facebook page and website: www. sheppartonobedience.net

It

It also identifies services that are approved for Victorian Government funding.

Victorian Government is making it easier for families to find a three and four-year old kinder learning program they can count on.

Shepparton: an affordable gem for real estate investors

By Deanne Jeffers

Greater Shepparton was ranked just below Bendigo as Victoria’s best region for buying a home, with the Campaspe Shire listed ninth.

The report was based on several factors, including affordability, property trends, investment opportunities, project development, and unemployment rates. It found Shepparton to have "solid fundamentals" for future growth, with a 3.9 percent population growth from 2016 to 2021 and a low unemployment rate of 3.3 percent in the September quarter of 2022.

Over the past decade, Greater Shepparton has seen significant growth in house prices, vacant land, and units, with an 82 percent growth in house prices, 123.6 percent growth in vacant land, and 77.7 percent growth in units. The report noted a decline in sales volume for houses and units between 2021 and 2022. However, sales grew by 30.1 percent for houses and 55.7 percent for units over the past 10 years.

According to the report, investors in Greater Shepparton benefited from average rental yields of 4.9 percent for houses and 6.1 percent for units as of December 2022.

The vacancy rate of 0.7 percent was also seen

as a positive sign for investors, as it suggests that they could find rental tenants faster. The report encouraged investors to enter the market due to the lower entry price compared to Melbourne metro and stronger rental returns.

However, the report also noted that the

market may not be sustainable in the long term due to the limited supply of ready-to-sell new houses. Although this has created a buffer in the current high cash rate environment, it is not sustainable in the long term.

POLICE are investigating the circumstances around a graffiti incident in Shepparton on April 9.

It is believed the offenders attended a residence on Kittles Road between 9pm and 10pm and graffitied the property, before driving off in a large utility vehicle.

Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report at www.crimestoppersvic. com.au

Ezard is currently wanted on warrant. He is known to frequent Shepparton, Mooroopna and Wodonga areas.

Anyone who has information regarding his whereabouts is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or make a confidential online report here → https://bddy. me/40ZVFAb

Draft decision on Goulburn Valley Water pricing plan released

RESIDENTS in the Goulburn Valley can provide feedback on proposed changes to water pricing, as the regulator releases a draft decision on the pricing plan for consultation.

The proposed five-year pricing plan, which outlines increases in water and sewerage bills for customers, will see typical annual bills rise by 1.85 percent each year in 2023-24 and 202425, then by 2.45 percent for the following three years until June 30, 2028, before inflation.

This means the average bill for households will rise from $890 in 2022-23, to around $917 in 2023-24, then to around $1,035

in 2027-28.

Marcus Crudden, Essential Services Commission’s director of pricing, says GVW recognises the impact proposed price increases will have on customers, and has proposed smaller increases in the first two years. It has also committed to increasing its funding for hardship support programs.

“We encourage customers to contact Goulburn Valley Water if they are experiencing difficulty paying bills, to discuss what assistance or arrangements can be made,” Mr Crudden said.

The regulator has requested more information to inform

the final decision. As part of its proposal, the GVW has committed to several outcomes, including investing in renewable energy, upgrading existing infrastructure, and improving water pressure in identified towns.

The commission invites customers and stakeholders to have their say on the draft decision through written

comments and submissions or participation in a public forum to be held on May 2, 2023, with details to be published on the Engage Victoria website.

The commission's final decision on the pricing proposal is expected in June 2023. To view the proposal and more information, go to https://bit. ly/3muTcif

SHEPPARTON has been identified as one of Australia's top 10 affordable regional areas for real estate investment, according to a report by PRD Real Estate.

ROARING REGIONS... A report has ranked Shepparton as one of Australia’s most affordable regional areas for real estate investment based on several factors, including affordability, property trends, investment opportunities, project development, and unemployment rates. Photo: Deanne Jeffers

Our Home Care Package has made our lives much easier.

- Marissa & Robert

Winners of Easter giveaway competition announced!

CONGRATULATIONS to Sue Mustey for guessing the eggs and winning The Shepparton Adviser’s Easter giveaway competition! They took home the first prize ahead of the long weekend, which was two tickets to the Australian Tractor Pull Championships and a stash of mini-Easter eggs.

We want to thank everyone who entered and the organisers of the Australian Tractor Pull Championships for supplying tickets to the competition.

Keep an eye out for our upcoming giveaways and competitions by liking our Facebook pagewww.facebook.com/SheppartonAdviser

EASTER PRIZE WINNERS... Sue Mustey has won The Adviser’s Easter giveaway, scoring two tickets to the Australian Tractor Pull Championships and mini-Easter eggs. Sue is pictured left with Indiana Miller collecting her prize. For info about giveaways and competitions, make sure you’re following The Shepparton Adviser on Facebook. Photo: Deanne Jeffers

With style, panache and close to magic

Elvis comes to Shepparton and Kyabram

FLAMBOYANT, flashy, and sexy with self-mocking, Elvis remains the King of Rock and Roll.

For die-hard fans and enthusiasts of the King’s undeniable hip-swinging style, the acclaimed Elvis- Hollywood to Vegas show is coming for one spectacular night each to the Kyabram Hotel and to the Sherbourne Terrace in Shepparton.

Featuring award winning Elvis performer, Peter Triantis, the show includes an entourage of sparkling showgirls as well as a dazzling six-piece band.

Taking you on a journey with a performance reminiscent

of the legend himself, Elvis- Hollywood to Vegas will showcase all the King’s greatest hits from Suspicious Minds to The Wonder of You.

Combining bluesy vocals marked by a strong back-beat and covering everything from ballads to country, gospel and folk, everyone has an Elvis favourite lodged firmly in their heart, so why not enjoy a thoroughly entertaining night in celebration of one of the world’s greats.

Proudly presented by Zurcas Entertainment, ElvisHollywood to Vegas will show at the Kyabram Hotel on Friday, April 28 and Sherbourne Terrace on Saturday, April

THE KING IS IN THE BUILDING... Elvis- Hollywood to Vagas is coming to Kyabram Hotel and the Sherbourne Terrace at the end of April and will feature songs from the legend’s vast repertoire of much loved hits. With award winning Peter Triantis bringing Elvis to life, the show also features a six-piece band, showgirls and costumes designed by the same artists who created the outfits for Academy Awards nominated movie of the same name. Photo: Supplied

29, with the doors opening at 7pm. Tickets are $65 per person and can be purchased at www.eventbrite. com/e/elvis-hollywood-to-vegas-tickets.

Flying fit quicker with a little more help

CONTINUING TO DO THE MOST IMPORTANT WORK DESPITE HEAVY SETBACKS... Kirsty Ramadan (right) runs Bohollow Wildlife Shelter in Bunbartha and is an experienced wildlife carer who caters for all areas of wildlife rescue, rehabilitation and release. Unfortunately, due to last year’s unprecedented floods, the shelter has endured a slow recovery, setting animal release dates behind. Pictured with Kirsty is Akira, who was fascinated with the shelter’s captive bred goanna at KidsTown during the Easter long weekend.

continued from front page

OPERATING out of Bunbartha and Kotupna, Bohollow also houses captive-bred animals for its education program, which seeks to inform the public on how to assist injured native animals until help arrives.

Despite all the vital work undertaken, and never with less than a hundred animals in her care, Kirsty Ramadan’s shelter at Bunbartha, was hard hit by last year’s floods.

Taking care of a terminally ill friend and volunteer at the time, and with four children of her own, Kirsty said that she had less than 24-hours' notice before her 34-acre property was inundated by floodwater, which came from two directions.

Describing a frantic evacuation of loved ones, animals and birds to a designated site near Tallygaroopna, Kirsty said she is forever grateful to community members who came to sandbag her home, which by a combination of luck and handwork, she said, was thankfully saved.

With one-metre flood waters lingering for a month before receding, however, irreparable damage ensued, with enclosures being destroyed and new projects, such as a 100m, ‘flying fit’ structure for raptors, being destroyed.

Used for birds of prey to regain their fullstrength before release, the loss of this enclosure and others has significantly delayed bird and animal release dates, with critters having to stay in smaller enclosures. for longer.

Despite myriad setbacks, however, including

Kirsty contracting Ross River virus, Bohollow’s important work continues, but assistance is always appreciated.

If you would like to support Bohollow Wildlife Shelter’s ongoing recovery, please head to www. bohollowwildlife.com to donate, or you can provide much needed towels, blankets or doonas for sick and injured animals by calling Kirsty on 0447 636 953.

Photo: Natasha Fujimoto

FOR five decades, Pat & Tina’s bp Service Station has been a staple of the community, providing reliable and friendly service to generations of customers. Through hard work, dedication, and a deep commitment to customer care, the legacy created by Pat Di Conza and continued proudly by his family, is truly worthy of celebration.

Photo:

Joe Di Conza, owner of Pat & Tina’s bp Service Station

From the bottom of our heart, we would like to thank you all for celebrating this important milestone.

Joe Di Conza

“Tina, Joe and Angela would like to thank everyone who has been a part of our 50 years in business.

Pat, who passed away back in 2003 would always say that our customers are like friends and family, and that’s the way he treated everyone.

From the bottom of our heart, we would like to thank you all for celebrating this important milestone. We love providing customer service for our whole community.

Thank you.”

-Joe Di Conza

& Tina with bp awards -

with his son Joe in the early days - 1980s

Three cheers for 50 years

ONLY those local businesses with such an impeccable commitment to their service, their customers and their communities stand the trials of time whilst maintaining such a proud name over decades and across generations.

Very few have made a more significant impact across Shepparton than the Di Conza family operating out of the iconic Pat & Tina’s Service Station over their 50 years in business.

For decades, Pat & Tina’s has been a household name across the Goulburn Valley and afar. Their outstanding reputation and the community support behind them are due to their exceptional old-fashioned service, their loyalty to their customers, local businesses and organisations, family, and friends and their unwavering work ethic.

In the 50 years since opening, The team at Pat & Tina’s has

seen it all, from the pandemic and stay-at-home orders, floods and family tragedy, the rising price of petrol and the changing self-service industry, which is a far cry from the kind of values that Pat, Tina and family had held close to their heart.

Throughout it all, the Di Conza family have remained dedicated and true to their principles and today, they celebrate their golden anniversary in business.

Just like Pat & Tina’s bp Service Station, the Di Conza family has continued to grow. Pictured from left is Johanna and Michael Di Conza with their sons Luca and Lorenzo, Emily Feldtmann and Pat Di Conza and their daughter Lydia, Anthony Di Conza, Angela, Joe and Tina Di Conza.

Pictured is Michael and Joe Di Conza, with long-term staff members at Pat & Tina’s, Tony De Rose and Dom Cannizzaro. Photos: Deanne Jeffers

John Anderson,

Greater Shepparton Chamber of Commerce and Industry president

THE experience for a customer to Pat and Tina’s is one of family.

Tina, Joe, Angela, and their staff know their customers, and everyone is treated like they are friends with jokes about football teams, “how is your day” and what are you doing.

People who patronise Pat and Tina’s don’t focus on the price of fuel, they go for the way their full-service experience means the windscreen that was covered in bugs is cleaned,

tyres checked and all the other aspects of car maintenance that is not done by any other service station in Shepparton or afar.

The original owner, Pat Di Conza was an individual with a vision for service to customers and giving back to the community in so many ways that have filtered down to Joe and his team.

On behalf of the Anderson family and the Greater

Shepparton Chamber of Commerce and Industry, I would like to offer sincere congratulations to the Di Conza family for being icons of service to customers and the community of Shepparton for 50 years.

Pat and Tina’s Service Station was inducted into the Chamber of Commerce Hall of Fame in 2013 and was well deserved.

A message from...

Peter Hill,

Museum of Vehicle Evolution executive officer

We look forward to our continued relationship

The Museum of Vehicle Evolution (MOVE) is a place that is all about community and bringing people together both locally and from outside of the region. Exactly the same could be said about Pat & Tina’s Service Station. Where else can you find a service station that provides old fashioned service that not only includes filling the tank, but also checking your oil, tyre pressure and

getting rid of the summer bugs from the windshield?

When MOVE was in its initial planning stages, Joe Di Conza approached us and not only wanted to contribute to MOVE, but he wanted to create a likeness of the garage his parents created 50 years ago. That exhibit now stands as a tribute to the whole Di Conza family inside MOVE. A tribute to what hard work and a genuine focus on customer service can deliver.

It takes dedication, hardwork, and a commitment to excellence to reach a milestone like 50 years in business. We at Vehicle & Equipment are honoured to celebrate this impressive achievement with you.

As a fellow business owner, we understand the challenges and rewards. We know first hand how much work it takes to achieve this level of success, and we are proud to call you life long friends.

A true family business

THE exemplary service and unrivalled charm of Pat & Tina’s bp Service Station would not be the same if not for the arduous work of and strong family ties between the Di Conza family.

Joe said he feels incredibly proud to have his family around him and to watch his own grandchildren in the service station where he grew up.

“There were moments in my life that I never thought I’d be married. You know, you go through periods where you think, if I end up alone then I end up alone. Then, in the blink of an eye, in 25 years later Angela and I have been married, we’ve had three boys of our own and now we’ve got three grandchildren of our own,” said Joe.

“For my mother to have great grandchildren is an incredible experience for her. I would love to have dad still around.”

The Di Conza family was left devastated when, in 1991, Joe’s younger sister Alfina passed away after her battle with Hodgkin’s Disease. She was just 20 years old. Then,

in 2003, the family was rocked again when Pat passed away following a short battle with Pancreatic cancer at the age of 68.

Joe said, “He never showed that he was sick, he never complained. It was 28 days of suffering and the week dad passed, there was a procession of our customers, family and friends who came through the service station to say goodbye. Nobody knew he was dying until that last week.”

After Pat’s passing, under different circumstances, Joe became the head of the family and the business, supporting his mum and continuing his father’s legacy, a role he was honoured to fill.

Today, Tina can still be found in the kitchen or in the workshop at Pat & Tina’s. Joe said, "Mum's not doing as much as she used to, but she still likes to come and chat to customers. She mainly sits in the kitchen, watching people or she'll be out in the workshop on the trolley that she uses to help her walk around. She doesn't serve like she used to, but she still tries

to come in every day."

With his sincere love of family, Joe has enjoyed every moment watching his own three boys grow up around the service station. He takes great pleasure in sharing this special place with his grandchildren.

The eldest of the growing family, Lorenzo, Joe says, “he is my little shadow. He loves being here. Being the eldest of the three, everything I do, he’s got to do.

“It’s dangerous for him in the driveway, and he hates when I’m out there because he wants to be out there too.”

Today, each family member still has a role to play in the ongoing success of the business. Joe continues to lead the business into the future, Angela does bookkeeping and works inside the shop and in the driveway while supporting Tina. Angela and Joe’s three sons Michael, Anthony and Pat are frequently found around the service station helping out the same way Joe and his sister grew up, with Michael working there full time.

Proud to be wearing their new 50th anniversary commemorative shirts are Johanna and Michael Di Conza with sons Luca and Lorenzo, Pat Di Conza and Emily Feldtmann and their daughter Lydia, with Anthony Di Conza.

Photo: Deanne Jeffers

The next generation, granson Lorenzo already helping around the service station.

Fuelled by old-fashioned and legendary service

THERE is something truly exceptional about the old-fashioned, individualised customer service you receive every time you fill up your tank at Pat & Tina’s bp Service Station.

In such a competitive landscape, it’s exceptional to see their staff take the time to come and clean your windscreen while they help fill your car. If you don’t want your windows cleaned, then you can enjoy a pleasant chat about footy or the weather with the friendly staff while you wait. At Pat & Tina’s, community service and customer satisfaction underpin everything they do.

Since their opening in 1973, Pat & Tina’s bp Service Station has been a much-loved part of the Shepparton community and the wider region. Customers regularly return to receive the kind of old-fashioned, service-with-a-smile, which has become more and more of a rarity since the self-service model was introduced.

Joe Di Conza, proud co-owner of Pat & Tina’s bp Service Station said, “Having a model of service which is the same today as it was over 50 years ago is important.

“The experience and service we offer mean the most to our customers and that’s why they keep coming back.”

A message from...

Cr Shane Sali,

City of Greater Shepparton mayor

On behalf of Greater Shepparton City Council, we wish Pat and Tina’s Service Station congratulations on their 50 year anniversary in business.

This fantastic achievement is a testament to the family run business and the unique service they still provide to our region.

message from...

Sam Birrell MP,

Federal Member for Nicholls

At

I’m

Many of us would have positive stories from visiting Pat and Tina’s Service Station over the years. It is safe to say you are always greeted with a big smile and a friendly attitude.

Small businesses are the backbone of Greater Shepparton and it is great to see our community continue to support them, and the many others, which have established ties in our region.

We wish Tina, Joe, Angela and family all the best for another 50 years in business.

The team at Renato’s Florist congratulate Tina,

Adviser journalist, Deanne Jeffers caught up with Federal Member for Nicholls, Sam Birrell pictured with Tina and Joe Di Conza

Wendy Lovell MP,

State Member for Northern Victoria

Congratulations to Tina, Joe Ange and the team at Pat and Tina’s on 50 years of outstanding service to our community.

When Pat and Tina started their business 50 years ago, driveway service was the norm, where you got your petrol pumped into your car and your car windscreens cleaned, all without the need to get out of your car.

The team at Pat & Tina’s has continued this service into the modern era, thanks to their son Joe and his wife Angela who I am proud to call friends.

Joe and his team provide outstanding service with a smile, and I always enjoy talking football with Joe, a

Kim O’Keeffe MP, State Member for Shepparton & District

Pat & Tinas BP Service Station are a much loved locally owned business and a testament to not only hard work and commitment to the success of their business, but to their special care and connection to their customers, and to the community more broadly. They don’t just provide a service, they have provided so much more than that over the 50 past years.

and they should be really proud. 50 years is truly outstanding and I congratulate them on this wonderful milestone and thank them for their service.

I am sure it is a time of reflection and celebration,

Melbourne Demons tragic. I often recommend Pat and Tina’s to visitors to Shepparton, telling them it’s the best service in the state.

As a member of a family that has owned and operated a small business in Shepparton for many years, I know the dedication needed to run a family business that not only provides outstanding service but also provides employment to others. That is why it is so important that we support local businesses.

Congratulations to the Di Conza Family of Pat & Tina’s Service Station on 50 years of wonderful service to the Goulburn Valley community.

State Member for Northern Victoria, Wendy Lovell with Joe.

State Member for Shepparton District Kim O’Keeffe with Joe Di Conza

A moment to remember

THE tale of Pat & Tina’s Service Station lives on in the stories of their friends, their family and loyal customers. Their slice of history has also been forever preserved in the history archives, through the standing replica of the iconic service station exhibited inside the Museum of Vehicle Evolution (MOVE) in Kialla.

“MOVE is an iconic place, and to be honoured as a local

business person and to be iconed in a place like that was so touching, mainly for my mother and father’s legacy of what they’ve proven,” said Joe.

“Because when we opened here in 1973, the knockers said that my dad wouldn’t last six months because we were too far out of town. They said we wouldn’t survive at all, and here we are 50 years later, and we’re still thriving on this policy of

looking after friends and family as customers.”

"It’s an honour and it’s touching to go out there as a family. When we visit MOVE, it feels just so special.”

MOVE Museum executive officer, Peter Hill said the decision to include the famous full-service station was an easy one.

Peter said the exhibition is, “a tribute to what hard work and a genuine focus on customer service can deliver.”

Joe said it was an honour to be inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2013, the same year the family business reached its’ 40th year in business. Joe and Angela are pictured in the centre with the perpetual trophy and Hall of Fame Certificate, with their children (L-R) Michael, Anthony and Pat, alongside Joe’s mother-inlaw, Dina Cardillo. Staff members Tony De Rose, former staff member Kelvin Norbury, and Dom Cannizzaro are pictured from left in the back row.

Legendary service station enters Hall of Fame for exceptional service and business excellence

10 YEARS ago, the same year the Di Conza family marked their milestone 40 years in business, Pat & Tina’s bp Service Station was inducted into the Shepparton Chamber of Commerce and Industry’s ‘Hall of Fame’.

Each year, a local business is honoured with the Hall of Fame award at the annual Business Gala Dinner and Awards night. Hall of Fame winners are recognised from excellence in Customer Service and Business Excellence as a Chamber Member, since joining and being a continuous member over a number of years.

Winners receive a perpetual trophy and Hall of Fame Certificate and significant press coverage and general media coverage.

John Anderson, the president of the Shepparton Chamber of Commerce and Industry, said Pat and Tina’s Service Station being inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2013 and was well deserved.

Joe said, “To be inducted that night in the Hall of Fame, surrounded by all our peers in the local community and the Chamber, was incredible.”

No stranger to well-deserved prestige, throughout the 80s and 90s, Pat & Tina’s were awarded with a multitude of national awards for customer service and compliance through bp Australia-wide. It was a rewarding time and the values that earned them such a proud reputation continues today.

Joe Di Conza pictured at the Shepparton Chamber of Commerce and Industry’s 2013 Business Awards Gala Dinner with the well-deserved perpetual trophy.

&

BP

Local people are their lifeblood

TO the Di Conza family, supporting local businesses means supporting local families. Their staff are treated like they are their own.

Joe said, “We employ five other staff members outside of the family. So, that’s five other families that we look after.”

part of our business. They are more than just employees, they’re good friends.”

“Our team are reliable, trustworthy, honest people who take pride in looking after our customers, which in turn supports us in the way we like to operate our business.

“Employing local people is so important because in a community like ours, local people are our life blood. We believe it’s important to support your local businesses just as much as your local community, and that’s just what we do.”

Pictured is junior staff member, Izaac Thompson-Fethney Tina and Angela working at the check-out

Working at Pat & Tina’s bp Service Station was Tyren Rodaughan’s first job, a position he continues to hold onto even though he has moved to Melbourne and bought a house down there. Tyren visits the region every few weeks to help out at Pat & Tina’s, giving him the opportunity to catch up with his family and friends that still live here. Photos: Deanne Jeffers

Pat & Tina’s bp Service

Pictured are long-term staff members, Tony De Rose and Dom Cannizzaro.

Melissa Groppo, A message from...

Chris Ripley,

Linfox National scheduling manager – bulk fuels

Linfox has been delivering on behalf of bp to Pat & Tina service station since 2014, and we are proud to say that our drivers have formed a close bond with the family-owned business.

We visit the site managed by their son Joe two to three times a week, and each time, Joe welcomes our drivers with his generous hospitality, often offering them a refreshing drink or, on some lucky occasions, breakfast.

I have always attributed Joe's warm and inviting nature to his Italian heritage. In a world where people are always in a hurry, Joe takes the time to make sure everyone feels seen and valued, especially his customers.

bp Australia business manager

While Linfox services hundreds of service stations, we are confident that Pat &Tina is the only site where the staff go above and beyond by not only filling up customers' vehicles with fuel but also checking their oil and water levels, cleaning their windshields, and ensuring their safety for the remainder of their journey.

Despite facing difficult times, such as last year's site flooding, the family has shown remarkable resilience. They have always remained positive, demonstrating strength and determination that is truly inspiring.

At Linfox, we take pride in being a bp trusted carrier, and we would be honoured to continue servicing Pat & Tina for the next 50 years.

I wish to sincerely congratulate bp Pat & Tina’s on such a significant milestone.

A 50 year partnership with bp is not something everyone gets to experience every day and I am thrilled to be a part of such a fantastic commemorative occasion for both the Di Cionza family and the Shepparton community.

bp Pat & Tina’s are renowned for being one of the only remaining service

stations in Australia that provide their customers with driveway service. Their customer centric attitude is second to none and they have been an absolute pleasure to work with since I have joined bp.

I look forward to celebrating many more milestones together with the Di Conza’s and wish them a very memorable night of festivities for their 50 year anniversary.

Linfox driver trainer Ben Tiso commented during a recent fuel delivery to Pat & Tina’s that he gets to travel far and wide to deliver fuel on behalf of Linfox, and he has never seen a similar full-service business model or the same warmth emulated that is a mainstay at Pat & Tina’s bp Service Station. He said their business is truly unique. Ben is pictured with Joe on traffic control during a fuel delivery.

PAT & TINA’S BP SERVICE STATION

Di Conza is mad about the Demons, and he’s not afraid to show it

JOE Di Conza is arguably Shepparton’s most ardent Demon’s supporter.

Affectionately calling them, ‘my demons,’ Joe said, “I’ve been a member of the Melbourne Football Club for over 34 years, been a player sponsor for 28 years and all the family members are part of the Foundation Heroes Inner Sanctum Club.”

To be a Foundation Hero, sponsors must donate a sum of money to the club. Joe has made sizeable donations to the Demons to commemorate the birth of each of his three children and he has followed this traditional welcoming his grandchildren. All their names are honoured on the Foundation Heroes website.

With 57 years between grand final wins, few Demons supporters had seen their team take the flag until their big win in 2021. Joe was one such follower that was thirsty for Melbourne

to come out on top, having attended matches where they came close, winning against Hawthorn in 1988 and Essendon in 2000.

“I never thought I’d see a flag,” Joe said. “It was just incredible. To think of the suffering that we’ve had.”

“My son Pat summed it up the best. He said that for all the times that I got teased at school for barracking for Melbourne, wearing my Melbourne top at football training, and getting teased because we’re always on the bottom. They can all get stuffed now because we’re premiers, we’ve done it, we achieved it and we’ve got a window of opportunity of winning another one.”

To celebrate the Demon’s 2021-win, Joe in his Melbourne guernsey spent the weekend giving away over 275 Furphy beer stubbies to customers.

Joe said, "I couldn’t get to the Marketplace

to see the premiership cup in person when it came to Shepparton because of the business.

“So, they drove the cup to me. They came here in a Jaguar, and I filled the Jag up for them and I got to hold the cup. It was just great. It was an emotional time, it felt like having another child.”

“To have the premiership cup physically up here in Shepparton was great for all the local supporters to get our hands on it, get a photo and just get amongst the premiership buzz.

“Seeing the cup with the name Melbourne on it had been a dream of mine for a long time.”

Joe's son Michael was not able to see the cup during its visit to Shepparton either, and Joe was blown away when the club offered a private box to the Di Conza family for round one in 2022 against the Western Bulldogs. The premiership cup was then presented again to the whole family.

To celebrate the Demon’s grand final win in 2021, Joe spent the weekend giving away over 275 Furphy beer stubbies to customers. Joe jokes that the community want the Demons to win another grand final, especially if it means Joe will be handing out free beers in the drive way.

The family pictured with the premiership cup at Pat & Tina’s bp Service Station during its tour of the region, from left is Pat, Anthony, Joe, Johanna, Angela and Lorenzo.

A message from...

"50 years of Pat and Tina’s Service Station –wow! Congratulations to Joe and the Di Conza family on the incredible achievement. Your impact on the Goulburn Valley and the Melbourne Football Club is unmatched!" –Ben Brown, Melbourne Demons

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - FEBRUARY 27: during the 2023 Melbourne Official Team Photo Day at AAMI Park on February 27, 2023 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Dylan Burns/AFL Photos)

Ben Brown, Kate Roffey,

Melbourne Football Club player president of the Melbourne Football Club

A message from...

ON behalf of the Melbourne Football Club, I would like to congratulate the Di Conza family on 50 years of Pat and Tina’s Service Station.

You should all be incredibly proud of this achievement, and the impact you have had on the local region. I don’t doubt that you have experienced a lot over the years, but the fact you’re still going strong brings a smile to the face of many.

When we visited Pat and Tina’s nearly 18 months ago, with our 2021 AFL premiership cup in tow, we saw first-hand the strong family values this business has been built on. From the amazing service to the unrivalled Demons

memorabilia collection out the back, it’s no surprise that we’re now celebrating this special milestone. Thank you for letting us be part of your journey.

Congratulations again. We look forward to celebrating many more years of Pat and Tina’s.

Go Dees!

Left to Right: Josh, John, Arthur, Les & Bayley Kreskas.

Happy 50th

BROWNS

to Joe, Ange, Tina and the team at Pat & Tina’s BP Service Station. Ph: 03 5821 2988 Cnr The Boulevard & Mason St, Shepparton

SHEPPARTON PLASTER WORKS 1926 - 2023

& SHEPPARTON Ph 5822 2288

The Victorian Automotive Chamber of Commerce (VACC) congratulates Pat & Tina’s BP Service Station on 50 years of exceptional service in the independent fuel retail industry.

A long-term VACC member, having joined in 2000, Pat & Tina’s is a true family-run business serving customers and the community with a smile.

A message from... CONGRATULATIONS TO JOE, ANGE, TINA AND THE TEAM AT PAT & TINA’S BP SERVICE STATION ON YOUR 50TH ANNIVERSARY. Wishing you continued success in the years ahead!

PAT Congratulations to Tina, Joe, Ange and the team at Pat & Tina’s BP Service Station on 50 years of outstanding service to the Goulburn Valley community.

a freshly cleaned windscreen. It sounds old school, but it’s a modern set-up with timeless values.

Joe and the team remind us all that the community appreciates well-run, hardworking and customer-friendly small businesses – and they continue to be the backbone of Australia.

There aren’t many service stations where you are greeted on the forecourt, helped to fill up and then drive off with

Anniversary 14 Welsford St, Shepparton Congratulations on good old fashioned country hospitality and service… for 50 years and counting! Whatever your foot problem is... Book an appointment today 5822 1855 or online sheppartonfootclinic.com.au GVF SKYLIGHTS GOULBURN VALLEY FLASH INGS Jarrod and Yvette Thomson of would like to take this extra special opportunity to congratulate Joe, Angela and family along with the Pat and Tina’s Service

Many congratulations to Pat & Tina’s BP Service Station, and here’s to the next 50 years!

Goulburn Valley Hospice Care

GV Hospice wishes to congratulate BP Shepparton Pat and Tina’s Service Station on their 50th anniversary and thank them for their support and generosity for over 30 years.

“When GV Hospice was established in 1989 the Di Conza family provided fuel for the GV Hospice cars free of charge. They continue to provide us with great service through Joe and Angela and the

team,” president of the Committee of Management Jeanette Powell AM said.

“On behalf of the Committee of Management, Staff and Volunteers I wish to acknowledge all at Pat and Tina’s on 50 years of outstanding care and service to the local community. The staff not only appreciate the support, they value the fantastic customer service provided to everyone who purchases fuel."

Pictured with Joe Di Conza from left are Goulburn Valley Hospice Care staff members Annie Jorgensen, Marjo Reijnen, Shirley Taylor and Ross Johnstone. Photo: Supplied

Rising to every challenge, tough through every test

READING about the history of Pat & Tina’s bp Service Station and the Di Conza family, you get a sense of the adversities they have faced to get to this momentous time 50 years later.

As any small business owner would know, there are numerous challenges and obstacles to overcome in order to achieve long-term success. From economic downturns and changes in consumer behaviour to rising costs and intense competition, the road to success is seldom easy. But through hard work, dedication, and a commitment to exceptional customer service, the Di Conza family and Pat & Tina's bp Service Station have emerged as a shining example of resilience and perseverance.

business closed, but their home temporarily destroyed.

“We lived here from ‘73 when we opened, to about 1981-82, then Mum and my dad built a house in Lister Crescent (Shepparton).”

“We had to move because of the flood in ‘74 and we had to move everything out of the building. We moved into my grandmother’s house lived with them for a little period while the place got cleaned up.”

We had a fair bit of water at the front. We only had probably between 15 to 20cm of water through the shop this time

Less than a year after their official opening, Pat & Tina’s was forced to close in 1974 when Shepparton’s worst historic floods impacted the service station.

“1974 floods were really really bad. We had over a metre of water in the shop. Mum and Dad had to close for a long period until we got everything cleaned.”

At the time, the family lived in a small area at the back of the shop. Not only was their

Joe said “It was a double whammy, because it was our home and our business.”

It was not the last time, with the service station again being forced to close amidst 2022’s October flood event.

Joe said, “We had a fair bit of water at the front. We only had probably between 15 to 20cm of water through the shop this time.”

“We sandbagged as much as we could from the front in ‘74, but the water inundated us from behind and knocked all the sandbags out. We managed it a bit better this time from what we learned about sandbagging then.”

“In ‘74, they got us from the back. We never really did anything out the back, whereas this time, we sandbagged the back and the front. That slowed the water, and we didn’t get as much inside the shop this time around.”

Half a century of humble service

With no one to operate the new service station, Tino wrote to Pat in Italy asking him if he would run the service station and saying that to do so, he would need to find a brand to operate under.

Pat secured permission from the Guyatt family who ran Goulburn Valley Motors, the only other Shepparton bp service station across from where the Shepparton Sports Stadium is now located. They signed the agreement opening Pat & Tina’s Service Station under the bp banner on April 4, 1973.

Before there was Pat and Tina’s, there was Pat & Tino’s, a Golden Fleece Service Station operated by Pat Di Conza and his brother in-law Tino Leo, married to Tina’s sister Frances. Situated across the road from where Pat & Tina’s is now, this venture into the service station industry in 1967 benefitted from Pat’s background in mechanics, having worked at Smith Motors, a Ford dealership on the corner of Wyndham and Nixon Streets.

Together the two sisters and brother in-laws operated the Golden Fleece Service Station for five years, finishing up in 1972. At that time, Pat’s father in Italy became ill and the family returned to Italy for six months to care for him. While the family was overseas, Tino and Frances bought land in Shepparton on Verney Road, where he opened Tino’s Paint and Panel, and on Numurkah Road, where Pat & Tina’s Service Station was constructed at the site it remains today.

According to the consensus of the local people at the time, Pat was crazy to open a service station so far out of town. They said it wouldn’t last six months, but as soon as Pat and Tina’s customers from the Golden Fleece Service Station found out they had moved, they followed them.

Pat & Tina worked tirelessly to get the business off the ground, living in a small part of the building at the rear of the service station, offering fuel and complete mechanical servicing through the day and detailing cars at night for extra money. Joe said, “To try and establish a business at that time, even though we had a lot of clients from the old service station, it wasn’t enough.

The 70s were a particularly difficult time for Pat & Tina’s. The worst floods in Shepparton’s history took place in 1974, less than a year after their opening. The floods devastated north Shepparton and Pat & Tina’s was inundated and forced to close. Joe said, “We sandbagged as much as we could from the front, but the water inundated us from behind and knocked all the sandbags out. The clean-up was extensive, and we were forced to close for about three weeks. Dad always said it felt like a year.” After re-opening it was business as usual.

By the age of eight in 1976, Joe had started pumping petrol and helping around the service station, and his sister Alfina began helping with bookwork and being involved in the family business at around the age of 10 in 1981.

In 1978 EFTPOS was introduced with approximately five percent of customers utilising the modern technology. In 2020, there were 7.6B electronic transactions, which includes debit and credit card transactions, online payments, and direct debits.

Joe said, “Dad could never understand the concept of EFTPOS because he liked cash. It’s the European background in him and to have very little cash, but to still have the sales that we were doing... he couldn’t comprehend it.”

Joe completed his HSC in 1988 and joined the business full time. Throughout the 80s and 90s Pat & Tina’s won several customer service and compliance awards through bp Australia-wide. It was a rewarding time.

The Di Conza family was left devastated again in September 2003 when Pat passed away from a short battle with Pancreatic cancer at the age of 68. Joe said, “He never showed that he was sick, he never complained. It was 28 days of suffering and the week he passed, there was a procession of our customers, family and friends who came to the service station to say goodbye. Nobody knew he was dying until that last week.”

After Pat’s passing, under difficult circumstances, Joe became the head of the family supporting his mum and continuing his dad’s legacy, a role which he was honoured to fulfil.

Alfina passed away after her battle with Hodgkin’s Disease in 1991, devastating the tight knit family. She was just 20 years old. In response to her passing, Pat & Tina launched their initial fundraising efforts in support of GV Hospice Care Services in Shepparton in appreciation of the care they had shown Alfina. bp came on board donating a significant sum of money to the cause in support of Pat & Tina.

Pat & Tina’s celebrated 21 years and introduced the fresh look bp Green giving the service station a new lease on life.

Joe married Angela, bringing her into the family business. Their eldest son, Pat was born in 1999 followed by Michael in 2000 and Anthony was born in November 2003.

bp Australia went through a national re-branding introducing the Helios flower as a part of the new world zoned bp banner, uniting all bp service stations in a uniform brand across the world.

The new green look put life into the service station.

Pat and Tina with a bp representative and Joe Di Conza. When Pat & Tina’s daughter Alfina passed away at the young age of 20, bp donated a cheque to the family to be donated to GV Hospice Care.

Pat Di Conza, eldest child of Angela and Joe.

Into the present and future

Pat & Tina’s were awarded both State and National Awards for BP Buying Group Compliance for a single site reseller. The biggest honour for a single operated site under the BP brand and a tribute to the service Pat & Tina’s provides. Also in 2011, Pat & Tina’s, and Joe in particular, was recognised for his longstanding support and contribution to Joe’s beloved Melbourne Football Club. As any of Joe’s customers would know, Joe is passionate about his Demons which is a constant source of banter among family and friends and particularly Tina, who is a diehard Geelong supporter.

Pat & Tina’s Service Station reaches its 40th anniversary and in the same year, the business was inducted into the Shepparton Chamber of Commerce and Industry’s Hall of Fame.

Joe’s eldest son Pat turned 15, making him old enough to help around the service station. Since, his other children Michael and Anthony have followed suit helping out around the business as needed.

Joe and Angela welcome two more grandchildren, with Pat and Emily bringing Lydia into the world, and Michael and wife Johanna welcoming their second child Luca.

This year Pat & Tina’s bp Service Station celebrates 50 years of incredible work in business. Joe is immensely proud of his family’s journey and the legacy his parents created. Joe’s sons have joined the business and Michael works at the service station full time.

Joe said, “Two of my boys are doing carpentry at the moment. Michael has now come back and he started time at the service station with us. So you never know, he might end up taking over the business later. Who knows? We don’t know what the future brings yet. We’ll just see what happens.” One thing that is certain, is that the tried-and-true business model that has been successful over 50 years is not going away any time soon, even if they are one of the few remaining full-service stations in Australia.

“It’s what my customers locally expect from us, because of what we started in 1973. And if we drop the service, I reckon we’d end up closing, because we’re unique and passer-by’s that have come through Shepp before, they know we’re still here. Because we provide the service, they come back to us.”

“Now there’s a lot of service stations in Shepparton now. It’s mainly because of what Dad started that we’re still here, and I’d like to continue doing what my Dad has done,” said Joe.

The Covid pandemic brings new challenges to operating local businesses. Petrol prices skyrocket, with prices in excess of $2.03.9 at the pump, which was in line with Melbourne petrol prices, but was around 16 cents more than larger competitors in Shepparton. Pat & Tina’s, as well as competing petrol stations, were all running at a loss. This was exacerbated by the conflict in Ukraine. As fuel prices increased, average spending on other items decreased and Joe said they were forced to throw out food items like $2,500 worth of flavoured milk when it went out of date.

Joe said, “During the pandemic, we just weren’t getting volume of people anymore, so we were buying stock and it was just going out of date because no one was buying like they were previously.”

“We need local people to support local businesses. Not just us, but all the local businesses in town. We need support to help us survive.”

2020 was not all entirely punctuated with troubles though. Pat & Tina’s BP Service Station’s full-service business model received praise from the community who were more conscious than ever of touching public items.

“There was a lot of customers that posted on Facebook to come to us because you don’t have to get out of the car, we would wipe their cards for them, and we’d wear gloves to minimise contact.”

“We looked after it because there was a lot of Covid getting picked up by petrol nozzles.”

2020 was also the year Angela and Joe welcomed their first grandchild, Lorenzo, the son of middle-child Michael and wife Johanna.

The Museum of Vehicle Evolution (MOVE) opened its doors, inviting the public and visitors to explore the replica of Pat & Tina’s bp Service Station that is displayed in the MOVE Museum.

Rod Poliness, Joe Di Conza and Geoff Wright in 2013

aspect

outstanding

cars we sell.

Service with a smile

CUSTOMERS know when they pull into Pat & Tina’s Service Station that they’re going to be looked after and leave with a smile. Pat & Tina’s entire ethos is and always has, centered around the highest levels of customer service and care, priding themselves on going the extra mile with a ‘nothing is too much’ attitude.

Joe said, “The most important aspect of our business is our customer service and the interaction with our clients. As a family operate business, I cannot think of anything more important.”

“Nothing is too much trouble. We check water, oil and tyres while filling up our customers’ cars, we wash their windscreen too, and we’ll even fill up gas bottles too. We also offer ePay, and Citilink so customers can pay their toll fares, and looking to the future, we plan on providing EV chargers so that electric vehicles can be serviced here."

"I would say our customers come back to us for the windscreen wash – they don’t have to get their hands dirty,” said Joe. “They love chatting footy with Mum or myself. Our customers become great friends to us, and we love what we do because of them.

“It feels good to help people with their car needs, especially when there are customers

that don’t know or are unsure about how to check their oil and water, so they just keep coming back.

“We also offer support to people in the community with disabilities. Because we’re a drive-through service, customers who have low mobility or difficulty getting in and out of the car can simply pull up and we can take care of them without them needing to get out of the car. It’s the really simple thing like that which make our job so enjoyable,” Joe said.

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taxation advice, GST solutions and BAS, audit general insurance, vehicle & equipment finance and financial planning. We also registered Self Managed Super Fund auditors. We cover all aspects of accounting and taxation with a depth of expertise is hard to compare at affordable fees.

• Start-up discount: 10% discount on last year’s accounting fees for new business clients*

• Start-up discount: 10% discount on last year’s accounting fees for new business clients*

We can offer clients a broader range of services... including, business, farm and individual taxation, Self Managed Super Fund taxation, business planning, taxation advice, GST solutions and BAS, audit general insurance, vehicle & equipment finance and financial planning. We also registered Self Managed Super Fund auditors. We cover all aspects of accounting and taxation with a depth of expertise is hard to compare at affordable fees. M: 0418 337

Izaac Thompson-Fethney washing a customer’s windscreen. Joe says that it is the window washing service that really wins over customers.

Dom Cannizzaro fills up a jerry can for a customer in the Pat & Tina’s driveway. It’s just one of the special services that keeps their customers coming back.

Pat & Tina have been going for 50 years!

From everyone at bp, congratulations on your anniversary!

Melbourne to MOVE

In the spirit of the great, classic car runs

ARE you a classic car enthusiast looking for a new adventure on the open road?

Look no further than Melbourne to MOVE, the first-ever classic car run supporting Shepparton’s own Museum of Vehicle Evolution.

On Saturday, April 22, start your engines at the state-of-the-art CMV Truck and Bus dealership in Derrimut, northwest of Melbourne.

Sip on a hot coffee from the onsite baristas and indulge in some egg and bacon rolls before embarking on a scenic drive through Sunbury, Romsey, Lancefield, Tooborac, and Nagambie.

Follow the Goulburn River to Shepparton, where you will arrive at the Finishline Festival at MOVE.

The fun will continue into the evening, featuring live music, delicious food and wine, and local treats.

You'll also have the chance to view the participating vehicles on display and vote for your favourite machine of the day.

Full access to the MOVE museum

will also be on hand, showcasing cars, motorbikes, trucks, buses, vintage bicycles, historic AV and telecommunications equipment, The Furphy Museum, and the Loel Thomson Costume Collection - a jawdropping display not to be missed.

Spots for this exclusive event are limited, so register now to secure yours.

Your entry fee includes lunch on the drive, dinner and drinks at MOVE, and full access to the museum and the Finishline Festival. And if you choose to make a weekend of it, MOVE will provide manned, secure parking for your vehicle overnight in Shepparton or the surrounding area.

Cars will arrive at MOVE from 3pm, coinciding with $10 half price entry to the museum for spectators. The event runs until 7pm.

Melbourne to MOVE will be a fundraiser for the not-for-profit museum, with tickets for the event available at www.events.humanitix.com/ melbourne-to-move-2023/tickets.

A DAY FOR TRUE CAR ENTHUSIASTS... The first ever-classic car run supporting Shepparton’s own Museum of Vehicle Evolution takes place on Saturday, April 22 with Melbourne to Move. Peter Hill (pictured) executive officer of MOVE will be joining the convoy of rare, collectible and historically significant vehicles in his all-original 1965 Ford Thunderbird. Photo: Deanne Jeffers

by Wendy Lovell MP, 222 Wyndham Street Shepparton.

Setting the stage

FROM a small Greek island to the stage of SMOTA’s Performing Arts Program, this year’s production of the popular stage show, Mamma Mia brings the music of ABBA to life and is sure to have the audience dancing in their seats.

Mamma Mia tells the story of Sophie (Emily Pullar from Tocumwal) who dreams of a perfect wedding — one which includes her father giving her away. The problem? Sophie doesn’t know who he is! Her mother Donna (Adeline Hutchinson from Barooga), the former lead singer of the 1970s pop group Donna and the Dynamos, refuses to talk about the past, so Sophie decides to take matters into her own hands. Sneaking a peek in her mother’s old diaries, she discovers three possible fathers: Sam (Kian Brereton from Nathalia), Bill (James Robinett from Tocumwal), and Harry (Addison Oswald from Naring). She

know her father when she sees him. But when all three turn up, it may not be as clear as she thought!

Production director, Rae Wood said, “Rehearsals are going really well. We are on schedule for blocking each scene and will have the entire show blocked before the holidays. Musical numbers are being developed with our musical director, Vanessa Byrnes at the helm, ably assisted by the multi talented Kim Carter to assist with teaching our cast how to maximise vocal potential.

“It has been wonderful having “students in charge” of areas

THE STARS ALIGN... From a small Greek island to the stage of SMOTA’s Performing Arts Program, this year’s Production of the popular stage show, Mamma Mia brings the music of ABBA to life and is sure to have the audience dancing in their sea Pictured, Mamma Mia stars Adeline Hutchinson and Emily Pullar. Photo:

this year. Kian Brereton as assistant director, Porsha Stuart for Choreography, Dipak Singh in design and Grace Hall in music. They have been integral in the creation and development of the show so far.

“I am so proud of our cast. They have been working so hard and so well together. It is a privilege to work with such magnificent young people.”

Mamma Mia will be performed across three big days, Thursday May 25 at 7pm, Friday May 26 at 7pm and Saturday May 27 at 2pm and 7pm. For ticket information visit www. trybooking.com/CG

Shepparton named the state’s leader in solar uptake

POSTCODE 3631 boasts more than half of all eligible homes taking advantage of the Victorian Government's Solar Homes

Program, which offers rebates and no-interest loans to help households install solar panels and reduce energy bills.

The program provides a $1,400 rebate to install solar panels, an additional interest-free loan, and up to $1,000 to replace hot water systems. The scheme has boosted household solar use from 14 percent to 27 percent across Victoria since its introduction in 2018.

With more than half of eligible homes in Shepparton taking up the offer, it has become the state's leading solar city, surpassing even some suburban areas in Melbourne. Other areas with high solar uptake include Cranbourne, Craigieburn, Kalkallo, north and east Bendigo, and the Wodonga area.

The Victorian government's Solar on

Public Buildings Program has also been successful, with more than 200 public buildings now equipped with solar systems installed. Both solar programs are part of the Victorian government's efforts to halve emissions by 2030 and reach net-zero emissions by 2045.

Minister for Energy and Resources, Lily D'Ambrosio has encouraged more households to take advantage of the program, saying, "For anyone still considering installing solar, there has never been a better time to take the next step."

For more information on the Solar Homes Program and to apply, visit solar.vic.gov.au.

Supplied

COMES TO THE GOULBURN VALLEY

SEEKING PASSIONATE

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.

•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

your residence (where possible)

•Discounted gym memberships and health insurance.

FOR SALE

GARAGE SALE

GARAGE sale Sat 22nd April Unit 2/18 Granthorn St Shepparton 8.30am - 3pm definitely NO early birds. Lounge suite 2x2 seaters, 2 recliner chairs, household items, tins, cushions, blankets etc.

PETS

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 as well as adult dogs and cats. For further information phone 5832 8900.

SUPA IGA

14. THE ADVISER 28  THE ADVISER

15. JOSHUA MEI 27 DICKSONS REFRIGERATION & AIR CONDITIONING

16. WILL PHILLIPS 27 ELDERS INSURANCE

17. WILL PATONE 27 TSE ENERGY SOLUTIONS

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

Football previews R3

KYABRAM V SHEPPARTON

Shepparton is staring down the barrel of a 0-3 start to the 2023 season if it can’t find its mojo against the 2019 premier. The Bombers are 1-1 after going down to Echuca last week.That said, coach Paul Newman took some positives out of the loss and he will be hoping that his Bombers can make their home ground a fortress despite the loss to the reigning premier. Premiership defender Lachlan Smith gets better with age. Smith can bounce from defence to attack if the Bombers are in need of a goal. Brad Whitford, Zachary Norris, Kaine Herbert and Rhys Clark will be others that Newman looks too to keep the visiting Bears at bay. Tip: Kyabram.

BENALLA V TATURA

Benalla and Tatura will be searching for their first win when they do battle in the Rose City. The Saints were more than competitive on the opening day of the season while it struggled against premiership favourite Euroa last start. The Bulldogs bounced back strongly and went within 10 points of causing an upset over Mansfield last weekend after losing to the reigning premier Echuca on the opening day of the season. Benalla will look to bring the form of the second half versus Seymour while Tatura hopes to bring the form of last week where it pushed the Eagles. Penrith will be hoping to get support from Harley McCarthy (three goals), Beau O’Connell, Brodie Meyers and Michael Archer to ensure the Bulldogs end up in front at the final siren. Tip: Tatura.

ROCHESTER V ECHUCA

Rochester faces a big challenge as it looks to break its duck in 2023. The reigning premier still looks one of the teams to beat. The Tigers are one of the youngest teams in the competition and very much a local team –accumulating only 23 points from its allocated 42 in last week’s loss to the Lions. Coach Ash Watson has no doubt simplified the game plan for the young Tigers .That said, Joseph Atley, Mitch Cricelli, Jacob Atley, Nicholas O’Connor and Hamish Hooppell are leading the way and if the others can follow their lead, then they will be competitive every week. Logan Prout, Sam Willoughby, Andrew Walker, Liam Tenace and Mitchell Wales will look to continue their good form for the Murray Bombers. The Murray Bombers’ are likely to have much firepower and class right across the ground to drop the four points to the Tigers. Tip: Echuca.

SHEPPARTON SWANS V MANSFIELD

The visit of Mansfield to Princess Park means

more than the four points for the Shepparton Swans. It marks the return of competitive football for the first time since last October following the devastating floods in Greater Shepparton, which impacted Princess Park. The Swans are an interesting unit, it is too early to form an opinion on where they will finish in 2023. One thing is for sure, is they will give as good as they get. They are likely to make a couple of changes to the team that defeated United due to a couple of players going down with injury. Jamie Macmillan, Andrew Riordan, Tom Preece, Nathan Rachele (five goals), Ty Sutherland and Kurt Dixon (3 goals) will be important if the home team is to match the bigger and more physical Mansfield. Lachlan Murphy-Dale, Daniel Leggett, Tom McDonagh, Harry Mahoney, Jayden Howes, Cam Arnold (three goals) and Ben Christopher (three goals) will be looking to try and make it two wins on the bounce after escaping the kennel last weekend with a narrow win. Tip: Mansfield.

SEYMOUR V EUROA

What a match these looms for two of the league’s unbeaten teams. Euroa has claimed wins against Mansfield and Benalla while the Lions have pushed past Benalla and Rochester. Seymour coach Ben Davey would be the first to admit that his team has plenty of improvement in them. Former AFL player Michael Hartley, Ben Cooney, William Brock, Lachlan Waite (four goals) and Huw Jones will be important for the home team. Davey may need to put a tag on gun Euroa midfielder Will Hayes, who has been a star since his return to the Pies. Jacob Gleeson, Adam Giobbi, Matthew Ivill and Jett Trotter (four goals) have been others to fire and will look to continue that good form at Kings Park today. Tip: Euroa.

SHEPPARTON UNITED V MOOROOPNA

Mooroopna will look to make it three wins on the bounce when it travels to Deakin Reserve to take on United.

The Demons will be without its two ruckman Sean Thompson (knee) and Damon Carroll (shoulder) for an extended period. This is going to give Cats ruckman Liam Betson a huge advantage coupled with the midfield of the visitors.

Jayden Magro (five goals), Fergus Pinnuck, Kyle Clarke, Joel Serra and Adam Pigatto will need to fire for the Demons to be able to match the Cats.

Ethan Hunt, Ben Hicks, Jed Woods, Jackson Trengove (three goals) and Christopher Nield (three goals) will be important for the Cats as they look to remain undefeated. Tip: Mooroopna.

Fitzgerald joins elite ranks in Australian Trap Shooting Hall of Fame

By Deanne Jeffers

TATURA’S Craig Fitzgerald was inducted into the national Hall of Fame last month, at a dinner held at the national grounds in Wagga Wagga.

The Australian Clay Target Association's (ACTA) Trap Hall of Fame was established in 2004 to recognise the outstanding achievements of Australia’s greatest trap shooters.

Craig was presented with his certificate and green jacket by Steve Atkins, who is a 10-time national champion and who represented Australia in March at the World Down the Line event in South Africa.

Steve, who has known Craig since he was a toddler and knew his father who was also an avid hunter and shooter, described

Craig as the “best shot out of Tatura and District,” he’d ever seen.

“What he has done, particularly at the start of his national career, is extraordinary.”

“He won three national titles within three or four years, when most people it would take them about 10 years to get one. He was also the runner-up for a world title,” said Steve.

Both members of the Echuca Clay Target Club, former club secretary, Ian Phillips, resounded praise for both Fitzgerald and Atkins, who was inducted in 2012.

“Steve must be the most decorated shooter the ACTA has had over the last 30 years,” he said.

“To be inducted into the Hall of Fame,

shooters must be successful at a regional, state and national level. Craig has been a long-term member and has shown excellence in all of the above.”

SHOOTING FOR

GOLD... Craig Fitzgerald, a prominent trap shooter from Tatura, was inducted into the Australian Clay Target Association’s Trap Hall of Fame in March, recognising Fitzgerald’s exceptional achievements in trap shooting. He was presented with a certificate and green jacket by Steve Atkins, a 10-time national champion and fellow Echuca Clay Target Club member. Craig and Steve are pictured at the event.

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“We have monthly competitions at the club, and while we all shoot well, they shoot a cut above the rest,” Ian said.

GVL netball round 3 previews

KYABRAM V SHEPPARTON

Kyabram is looking for its first win of the season when it welcomes a Shepparton outfit looking to rebound after its loss to Mooroopna in the wet last weekend.

The Bears won on the opening day of the season and coach Tracey Brereton would have enjoyed that, but she will be eager to improve the girls every week.

Ella Sidebottom and Jacinta Todd are two of the main stays of the team.

If Kyabram can put together four consistent quarters, then it can challenge the visiting Bears for the win. If they don’t, then the Bears will prove too strong for the Bombers. Tip: Shepparton.

BENALLA V TATURA

Tatura will look to make three wins on the trot and remain undefeated when it makes the trip across to the Rose City.

The Saints are winless after coming up against Seymour and Euroa in the opening fortnight.

Bulldog coach Fiona Boyer will be reminding her players to not ease up and to play the game out from the first whistle.

Star recruit Jasmine Fraser was a standout in the big win over Mansfield last weekend.

Elise Boyer in the centre and the versatile Molly Boyle will be others that will be important to ensure the Bulldogs

by Sam Saracino

don’t drop their guard against a Saints’ team that will look to Olivia Dalton, Ella Sheehan and Kate Symes to try and steer them to victory. Tip: Tatura.

ROCHESTER V ECHUCA

Campaspe Shire bragging rights go on the line this weekend. Echuca and Rochester are locked at one win apiece.

Former coach and mid-courter Steph Vick coupled with experienced duo, Ash Mangan and Lauren Pryde and young defender Greta Pearson will be important for the Murray Bombers.

They were important in the Murray Bombers overcoming Kyabram after a first-up loss to Tatura. Rochester was unable to go the distance with the reigning premier last weekend. The Tigers were competitive for a half, but couldn’t sustain its game in the second half. Tip: Echuca.

SHEPPARTON SWANS V MANSFIELD

The Shepparton Swans will be eager to get their season back on track after back-to-back defeats to start 2023. They lost first up to Mooroopna and then again last weekend to Shepparton United.

Mansfield has only scored 51 goals and conceded 114 goals from its opening two losses.

The Swans will look to Klarindah Hudson, Hannah Garner and Sophie Garner to lead the way while the Eagles will look to its leaders in Bella Riley and Darcy Croxford-

SEYMOUR V EUROA

Two of the league’s early pacesetters and premiership contenders will find out where they sit in the pecking order around 4pm today. The reigning premier will be a tough nut to crack as will last year’s finalist Euroa. Casey Adamson was strong in defence last weekend, taking intercepts all over the court, while Rosie O’Sullivan was extremely valuable off the line. This will be a cracking contest and the team that makes the fewer errors and can capitalise when it has momentum will win the points. Tip: Seymour.

SHEPPARTON UNITED V MOOROOPNA

Shepparton United scored a confidence boosting win ahead of a big challenge of taking on the well-drilled Mooroopna Cats. The Cats are one of four teams who have won their opening two games. After an opening round loss, the Demons stunned cross-town rivals the Shepparton Swans to win by eight goals last weekend. Hayley Howard was outstanding in goals for United and Laura Cole through the mid-court and Olivia Kirby in the back third will also be important. Di Hanslow’s Cats look to remain undefeated, I think the balance of the Cats in every third will prove the difference. Tip: Mooroopna.

We Will Remember Them

Demasi along with experienced duo Nelle Cousins and Em Hutchins to try and cause an upset. Tip: Shepparton Swans.

Photo: