The Adviser 1672

Cost and benefit, the Commonwealth Games debate

LONG sought after and hard won, the dream of hosting a regional Commonwealth Games in 2026 came crashing down on Tuesday July 18 when Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews, citing a major budgetary blowout, terminated the quadrennial international multi-sport event. Continued Page 5

Natasha Fujimoto

THOUGH there has been an influx of younger players at the Shepparton Chess club in recent times, the stalwart club faithful were both

amazed and stirred from their games when eager, four-year-old Isaac Pearce walked in one day, ready to play.

Accompanied by his father Luke, Isaac

further impressed the club when it became clear that he could not only move each of his 16 pieces correctly but could think and strategise several moves ahead. Continued Page 8

Calls for Shepparton appointment to RPCV Trust Board

THE Liberal Member for Northern Victoria Wendy Lovell has stated it's time a representative from Greater Shepparton was immediately appointed to the Board of the Trust for the RPCV.

In the wake of another decision by the Remembrance Parks Central Victoria Trust that has left grieving Shepparton families heartbroken, Ms Lovell's call comes after RPCV's decision to change the style of headstone design for new grave sites at Pine Lodge Cemetery, replacing the traditional style of raised headstone with a flat piece of concrete that looks, and is treated like, a footpath.

Ms Lovell said she had been contacted by numerous families who have conveyed their devastation regarding the changes, that were made without any consultation whatsoever with the

Shepparton community and no notification to families the headstone design would be different.

Families indicated to Ms Lovell that their departed loved ones had chosen Pine Lodge Cemetery as their final resting place because the uniformity of the raised and angled headstones that bear plaques for all that are interred there and because the cemetery was always kept neat and tidy. Ms Lovell said that one family had conveyed to her that their loved one had chosen Pine Lodge Cemetery purely because everyone interred there were looked upon as equal because of the uniformity of their plot, no matter their social status or wealth.

"The decision to change the grave designs to just a plaque lying flat on concrete without any consultation with families showed

that the Bendigo-based RPCV Trust Board had no empathy or compassion for Shepparton families and was proof that a Greater Shepparton-based person needed to be appointed to the Board immediately to represent this community's views," said Ms Lovell.

A little freedom to remember

By Natasha Fujimoto

FOLLOWING the passing of a loved one, bereavement’s only consolation is perhaps that remembrance never dies and often, the way we choose to memorialise a loved one is as indicative and as special as the relationship that was once shared.

For Riddy and Lume Ahmet, losing their 51-year-old son Jamie to brain cancer two years ago was a tragedy that no parent or family should ever have to endure. However, with the help of their daughter Jennifer, the grieving family decided that the most meaningful way to remember their son and brother was to design a beautiful, circular garden in their front yard

entitled, ‘Jamie’s Garden.’

Turning their attention to an expired pear tree on their nature strip, Riddy decided to honour his son’s memory further by removing its foliage to paint a vibrant, sculpture like ‘Awareness Tree’, to foster greater acknowledgement about terminal disease.

Painting each branch a different colour to represent an illness, Jennifer had a plaque made to sit within Jamie’s Garden festooned with icons representing some of Jamie’s passions in life; a Falcon GT, a Harley Davidson and a magpie to evoke Jamie’s dedication to Collingwood football team.

A short time ago, however, Riddy and

A SPECIAL GESTURE TO REMEMBER THEIR SON... and to create greater awareness about terminal disease, Lume (left) and Riddy Ahmets’ ‘Awareness Tree’ was cut down by Council workers after a reported complaint. For the grieving family who lost their son from brain cancer two years ago, the removal of their memorial tree was not only understandably upsetting but perplexing. Painting each branch of the expired flowering pear tree a different colour to represent an illness, Lume and Ahmet have since re-established the tree within their front yard which is named in honour of their son, Jamie. Photo: Emma Harrop

his family were informed by the Greater Shepparton City Council that ‘someone’ in the neighbourhood had complained about the tree and it would have to be cut down as it presented a distraction to drivers on the corner block.

Understanding the sentimental value of the tree, Council assisted Riddy and his family to move the tree to a fixed position within the

garden boundary after cutting it at ground level.

Saddened and perplexed by the whole affair Riddy said, “I don’t understand why Council had to cut it down, especially when the lights at Lake Victoria at night always catch my eye, surely that is a hazard in the same way, beautiful as they are.”

Escape to peace &

Dine inside or outside at Trawool Shed Restaurant café

• Soak in the beautiful garden atmosphere, country air and delicious food

• Make a weekend out of it and book our quaint Trawool Cottages only minutes away from the Goulburn River

LOCAL VOICES NEEDED... Liberal Member for Northern Victoria Wendy Lovell has stated it’s time a representative from Greater Shepparton was immediately appointed to the Board of the Trust for the RPCV. Photo: Supplied

Silver linings, anyone?

Breakneck reactions to the Commonwealth Games cancellation announcement

MASSIVE humiliation, glaring incompetence, extreme disappointment and a betrayal to all Victorians were just some of the phrases used to describe the Andrews Governments'

shock cancellation of the 2026, regional Commonwealth Games on Tuesday, July 18.

While many voices were quick to condemn the Premier’s announcement with lightning speed,

many of the same were just as prompt to demand a redirection of funds allocated to the Games, along with the subsequently announced $1B regional housing fund to address essential social

housing needs and infrastructural projects.

Below are just a few of the breakneck reactions to the Commonwealth Games cancellation announcement:

STATE MEMBER FOR SHEPPARTON, KIM O’KEEFFE MP

“In the announcement today, Daniel Andrews said they will deliver a comprehensive $2B package to ensure regional Victoria still receives all the benefits that would have been facilitated by the “We called for the Shepparton Sports Stadium redevelopment to be funded and considered at the start of the Commonwealth Games proposal. I will continue to lobby for that project and other “We also want our fair share of the new $1B regional housing

GREATER SHEPPARTON CITY COUNIL MAYOR, CR SHANE SALI

“Disappointed is an understatement. The Greater Shepparton region had already began gearing up for the 2026 Commonwealth Games and we were extremely excited to have been announced as one of the five host cities.

“The funding [announced] for upgrades to the Shepparton BMX track is a great result. The Victorian Government also announced our region will share in $150M Regional Tourism and Events Fund which will offer new events, attractions and more accommodation in Greater Shepparton.”

“We will also continue to push for the State Government’s contribution to Stage One of the Goulburn Valley Highway

COMMITTEE FOR GREATER SHEPPARTON CHAIR, LEIGH FINDLAY

“I’m a sports nut and I was really pumped that the Commonwealth Games were coming to regional Victoria and especially for Greater Shepparton to host the cycling and the BMX competition.

“The cancellation of the Games was obviously disappointing however, when you listen to the reasons behind the cancellation you understand the cost of projects and how they can blowout. We may not all agree but I understand that decisions must ultimately be made in the best interest of the state.

“With the initial reaction aside and feeling for what it means to the athletes, we must be positive in getting to the table with Minister Jacinta Allen to put forward the best interests of Greater Shepparton. There’s a $2B package to be shared throughout the state with $1B for social and affordable housing, along with another billion for other projects and infrastructure.

“We’re particularly fired up to work with the Basketball Association and Council to up-grade the sports stadium as well as address other, long-overdue infrastructural and housing projects.”

Cost and benefit, the Commonwealth Games debate

UNWILLING to fund an estimated doubling of the original $2.6B to finance the Games, Mr Andrews said that the government was far from confident of the final cost with three years still to go before the opening ceremony.

“The Games will not proceed in Victoria in 2026...Frankly, $6 billion to $7 billion for a 12-day sporting event... does not represent value for money, that is all costs and no benefit.”

The original allocation of $2.6B was to be allocated to regional centres Geelong, Bendigo, Ballarat and Gippsland who were to host their own athlete villages and sporting programs. Greater Shepparton was also to play a major role in the Games hosting cycling events including BMX racing and road time trial.

Considering stripping back the games to Melbourne and having sought a dollar-fordollar match in funding from the Federal Government, Mr Andrews maintained that all options for the cost would far outweigh the benefits.

“None of those options stackup...I wouldn’t spend half of that

money even if I got the other half from Canberra, because that’s coming at the expense of something else- hospitals, schools, roads,” Mr Andrews said.

Despite the copious outpouring of disappointment and vehement criticism from numerous sectors and voices in the community, the

planned upgrades on permanent sporting facilities will continue to go ahead including on Shepparton’s own BMX facilities.

In addition, $1B will be poured into regional Victoria to build 1300 new social and affordable housing homes as well as a $150M injection to further fund tourism and events.

IS IT COST VERSUS BENEFIT OR IS IT

COMPETENCY... The cancellation of the much anticipated Victorian Commonwealth Games in 2026 has created much dissent, but once the initial smoke clears, the new sport will be for the regions to vie for their portion of the $2B announced by Premier Daniel Andrews on Tuesday, July 18. The new funding will support new social housing, infrastructure, tourism and events promotion across regional Victoria. Photo: The Adviser

Victoria Lake Caravan Park reopened

GREATER Shepparton City Council have announced that the Victoria Lake Caravan Park is now reopened with reduced capacity.

It has taken Council officers a huge amount of work to make the park ready for reopening after the devastating floods in October 2022.

All of the existing cabins have been removed, as they were severely damaged during the flood event, and major electrical works have been undertaken and will still be required into the future. The amenity blocks have also been refurbished ensuring they are ready to use.

The park will be available for RVs,

caravans and camping, but due to the removal of ensuite facilities, the only availability for showers and toilets is inside the amenity blocks.

Visitors wanting to utilise the Caravan Park are encouraged to call Council to book a site. The Caravan Park is only a 15-minute walk from the CBD and has easy access to the extensive walking tracks around Shepparton and Aquamoves, making it the perfect location for visitors to the region.

For more information about Victoria Lake Caravan Park, visit Council’s website www.greatershepparton.com.au or phone 5821 5431.

2022. Park manager Tyson Barrington and Axel on the banks of the river.

BIRRELL MP

What Matters to You, Matters to Me

I’m continuing to call on residents to take part in my community survey. The 30 second survey aims to keep me up to date and informed about issues that matter most to you.

Thousands of surveys have been sent to households across the electorate or people can complete the online survey via the QR code.

In appreciation for sharing your views, two lucky constituents drawn at random from surveys returned before Tuesday August 1, will receive 1 of 2 $500 grocery vouchers.

Scrapping the Commonwealth Games

The idea for a regional Commonwealth Games was originally floated for 2030, which would have provided time to plan, build and execute a sporting event that would reflect well on the regions and provide a lasting legacy.

It was Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews decision to bring it forward to 2026, which now looks like a cynical move ahead of a state election.

Labor has a lot of questions to answer, including how a budgeted amount of $2.6 billion to stage the games could blow out to $6-7 billion in less than a year.

It shows a clear lack of serious analysis by the Andrews government and has resulted in global embarrassment for our state.

It is a disappointing outcome for regional communities, including Greater Shepparton, that had worked so hard to stage world class road cycling and BMX events as part of the Games.

Energy Efficiency Grants

The first round of the Energy Efficiency Grants for Small and Medium Sized Enterprises program is now open and includes grants of between $10,000 and $25,000 to businesses in the region including coolstores, hydroponic vegetable production, orchards and motels.

The grants can be used for a broad range of measures including installing heat pumps, lighting upgrades, space and water heating improvements and installing energy monitoring systems.

Sod Turned

THINKING AHEAD... Isaac Pearce maybe only four, but he can concentrate for well over an hour on a game of Chess, planning ahead, anticipating moves and asking an abundance of questions as he goes. A remarkable little boy, Isaac’s father said his son has always been drawn to numbers and puzzles but it is the ancient game that now preoccupies his days. Pictured with Isaac is Joe Commesso from the Shepparton Chess Club.

Chess draws fouryear-old talent

In the game of chess, someone has to be king even if that someone is just four years old.

continued from front page

A PASSIONATE chess player for well over 60 years and once a junior South Australian chess champion himself, club president David Wynne said, “I’ve never seen someone in all my years as young as Isaac come in, sit down and play a game. It is beyond remarkable; this little fella has something special.”

Gladdened by the chess club’s warm receptivity of his young son, Luke said that Isaac has enjoyed playing all the varied abilities and ages at the club.

“Isaac has only been playing chess since February but all of the players at the club

have responded very well to him and have been very aware that he is only four, and though they are better than him they’re happy to teach him a few things along the way, which has been great.”

A promising player who can already concentrate on a game for well over an hour, Luke said Isaac fills his days with chess, whether it's playing a game with him or by undertaking chess puzzles on the iPad.

“When Isaac was younger, he was drawn to numbers and I think there must be a link between maths, strategic thinking and playing the game. I imagine his brain looks for that sort of thing and chess gives it to him,” Luke said.

APPLICATIONS OPEN

The new Centre for Higher Education Studies (CHES) provides high-achieving and high-ability senior students from government schools with opportunities for extension, acceleration, and enrichment in their overall VCE program, regardless of their location in Victoria. To expand access, all our programs are available through a hybrid (online and on-site) learning framework.

Applications from students in rural, regional and remote areas of Victoria are invited and prioritised, including applications for 2024 Higher Education Studies (first year university subjects taken in Year 12), select VCE subjects, and Year 10 enrichment electives.

CHES offers these VCE subjects for study in 2024:

It’s great to see the ceremonial sod turned for the $20 million La Trobe University Shepparton campus redevelopment.

The project includes more clinical learning facilities, a bigger library, modern study spaces, a community events and gallery space, and the expansion of the Ngarrapna area.

The Coalition committed $5 million towards this project.

Stay up to date with me on Facebook and Instagram

• Extended Investigation Units 3 & 4

• Algorithmics Units 3 & 4

• English Language Units 1 – 4

• Specialist Maths Units 1 – 4

Further information and applications are available through the CHES website: https://ches.vic.edu.au

Photo: Natasha Fujimoto

Applauding more nominees for the 2023 SPC Business Excellence Awards

FIVE more businesses have been recognised as being outstanding in their nominated category of the 2023 SPC Business Excellence Awards.

Gamers Resort was nominated in ‘Customer Service Award: Retail/ Hospitality’ sponsored by the Shepparton Club, with Francco Cipriani accepting the nomination.

JMB Modular Buildings was nominated in ‘Business of the Year Award: Trade Services’ sponsored by Harvey Norman Shepparton with James and Rachael Briggs accepting the nomination.

Everyday Supplies was nominated in ‘Business of the Year Award: Retail Services’ sponsored by Harvey Norman Shepparton with Jac McCarty accepting the nomination.

Shepparton Dental Spa was nominated in ‘Best New Business (under 2 years) of the

Year Award sponsored by Greater Shepparton Business Centre with Katrina Coote and Renae Looby accepting the nomination.

Stellar Café was nominated in ‘Visitor Experience of the Year Award’ sponsored by with Shepparton and Goulburn Valley with Matt Kington accepting the nomination.

Furphy Foundry was nominated in ‘Environmental/ Sustainable Business of the Year Award’ sponsored by Greater Shepparton City Council Enviro with Chris Earles and Darrin Carr accepting the nomination.

Nominations are now open to the general public, they will close on September 20, 2023. The community has until this time to nominate a business, individual or organisation who has provided excellence in their nominated category.

CAT 2- BUSINESS OF THE YEAR AWARD: RETAIL SERVICES... From left Rijan Shrestha from sponsor Harvey Norman Shepparton, Jac McCarty from Everyday Supplies and Peter York from sponsor SPC.

CAT 4- BEST NEW BUSINESS (UNDER 2 YEARS)

CAT 2- BUSINESS OF THE YEAR AWARD: TRADE SERVICES... From left, Peter York from sponsor SPC, James and Racheal Briggs from JMB Modular Buildings and Rijan Shrestha from sponsor Harvey Norman Shepparton.

Chemist Warehouse

Cignall Specialist Tobacco

Coles

Coles Express

Coles Liquorland

Degani

Forty Winks

Fun Planet

Harbour Lane

Harvey Norman Bedding

Harvey Norman Computer

Harvey Norman Electrical

Harvey Norman Flooring

Harvey Norman Furniture

Kaisercraft

Kebab Boyz

KFC

Muffin Break

Phone Freaks

Riverside Newagency

Super Variety & Party

TSG Shepparton

Woolworths

SHEPPARTON

Autobarn

Billabong Gardens

The Bottle-O Warehouse

Central Tyre Service

Chas Cole

Darby Paints

Every Day Supplies

Fairleys IGA

Finer Fruit

Finny’s Manchester

GV Meats

KFC North Shepparton

KFC South Shepparton

Kruegers Fine Meats & Small Goods

Kwik Bite Cafe

Lights Plus

North End Bakehouse

Mooroopna Newsagent

Mooroopna Post Office

Pampens Boutique

Royal Mail Hotel

Taste of Capri

Terry White Chemmart

RIVERSIDE PLAZA

Baby Bunting

Bakers Delight

Belles Brow Bar

Cellarbrations Kialla

The Main Course Butchery

The Reject Shop

W & R Nails

Wasai Sushi

Wendy’s Milk Bar

Zen’s Healthy Massage

Zest Hair Salon

SAFEWAY PLAZA

Penny Massage

Shepparton Plaza Lotto

Phillips Cellars

Pinch of Salt

Poolwerx

Purdeys Hourglass

Jewellers

Shepparton Amcal

Pharmacy

Shepparton Flooring Xtra

Solar City Marine & Caravans

Solar City Tyres -

Shepparton 4x4 & Off Road

SPC Factory Sales

Spotlight

Stephens Jewellers

The Last Straw

Total Tools

Trellys Outdoor

Ultimate Fasteners

Verney Road Milkbar

WB Hunters

SHEPPARTON HOME

Derrimut Gym

Early Settlers

Fantastic Furniture

Focus on Furniture

Nick Scali

OMF

Pets Domain

Plush

Provincial Home Living

SHEPPARTON

MARKETPLACE

918 Repair Station

Bakers Delight

BIG W

Boost Juice

BWS

Chemist Discount Centre

Connor

Gloria Jean’s Coffee

House

Jay Jays

Just Cuts

KYO Sushi

Lovell’s Newsagency

Lovisa

Lowes Menswear

Market Meats

Michael Hill Jewellers

Mrs Fields

Muffin Break

Oscar Wylee

Platypus Shoes

RACV

Revolver (Burger)

Royal Hands & Massage

Spec Savers

Spendless Shoes

Stephen’s Jewellers

Strandbags

Sunrise Mobile

Supre

Suzanne Grae

Telstra Shop

Urban Wrap & Grill

Wok n’Roll

Woolworths

Woolworths Petrol

TATURA

Foodworks Tatura

Final week to enter the $25,500 Giveaway

THE 2023 GMCU $25,500 Giveaway has drawn more local, lucky winners during its fifth week of the competition.

A $5000 GMCU debit card will be going to one lucky winner, which will be drawn on Monday July 31st. GMCU debit cards can be used at businesses participating in the giveaway.

There are still prizes to be won, and you

must be in it to win it, so go shopping and try your luck on the final week.

Congratulations to everyone who has won a share of the region’s biggest shoppers’ giveaway.

The winners featured this week include:

Ethan Ross - Macisaac Road Take-Away

Robert Burns - SPC Factory Sales

Bradley Allott - Billabong Gardens

Denise Hipwell - SPC Factory Sales

Robyn Lipshut - Pampens Boutique

Vicki Gillespie - Woolworths - Shepparton Marketplace

For your chance to win a share of $25,500, spend a minimum of $10 at participating retailers, scan the QR code, upload your receipt and submit online at www. sheppadviser.com.au/gmcu-25k-giveaway.

FASHIONABLE WIN... The Adviser’s Zara Hastie, winner Robyn Lipshut and Pampens Boutique owner Angela Tripoli. Photo: Emma Harrop

FRESH FOOD WINNER... Woolworths Team Member Tom, winner Vicki Gillespie

July Council Meeting Wrap

This month’s Council Meeting was held on Tuesday 18 July.

Social Recovery Quick Response Grants

Council noted the awarding of eight Social Recovery Quick Response Grants to local organisations to assist with community-led recovery initiatives, following the October 2022 flood event. The grants, each worth $1000, aim to support small-scale community activities that encourage flood recovery.

Our Sporting Future Funding Program

Council noted the awarding of $106,897 in grants to 11 local sporting clubs as part of the Our Sporting Future Funding Program. The program assists sporting clubs with the implementation of small to medium sized development projects and programs to help improve their leagues.

Greater Shepparton Disability Advisory Committee recruitment

Council appointed Simon Fox as a community representative to the Disability Advisory Committee (DAC).

The DAC provides recommendations to Council to advocate for the needs of people with disabilities across Greater Shepparton.

In other Council news…

The Victoria Lake CaravanPark is now reopen with reduced capacity, following the October 2022 flood event.

All of the existing cabins have been removed and major electrical works have been undertaken. The amenity blocks have also been refurbished ensuring the park is available for RVs, caravans and camping.

Council’s destination brand Shepparton & Goulburn Valley launched ‘A Cup of Shepp and GV’ art contest.

Pirouette your way to joy with the Australian Ballet

EXCITEMENT fills the air in Greater Shepparton as Riverlinks is thrilled to announce the highly anticipated arrival of The Australian Ballet as they celebrate their momentous 60th-anniversary. For over four decades, the national ballet company has graced stages across Australia with their mesmerising repertoire, enchanting audiences far and wide. Now, residents of Greater Shepparton have a golden opportunity to immerse themselves in the captivating world of dance.

The performance will include Act III of The Sleeping Beauty, with Piotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky's renowned score and captivating choreography by The Australian Ballet artistic staff. Alongside this classic repertoire, two contemporary pieces, The Vow by Lucas Jervies and Circle Electric by Stephanie Lake, will also be presented.

Additionally, The Australian Ballet is offering special events, including a Youth Masterclass and Class on Tour, providing unique insights into the world of ballet. Tickets for the performance, Youth Masterclass, and Class on Tour are available in person, online, or through The Australian Ballet's website. For more information and the full show lineup, visit www.riverlinksvenues.com.au/whats-on.

The Australian Ballet on Tour 60th Anniversary will perform on Tuesday and

Wednesday August 1 and 2 at 7.30pm at Riverlinks Westside. You can purchase your tickets by calling the Riverlinks Box Office on 03 5832 9511 or online at riverlinksvenues. com.au.

Community art project for peace

PAPER cranes originate in the ancient Japanese tradition of origami or paper folding. Today, they are known as a symbol of peace.

The connection between paper cranes and peace can be traced back to a young girl named Sadako Sasaki, who died of leukemia ten years after the atomic bombing.

Sadako's story is best known through the book Sadako and the thousand paper cranes by Eleanor Corr. Sadako's death triggered a campaign to build a monument to pray for world peace and in memory of children that died because of the bombing. Later, this story spread to the world and now approximately 10 million cranes are sent each year to the Children's Peace Monument.

You can help Goulburn Valley Libraries contribute to the International Day of Peace by making origami paper cranes. They have a target of 1000 paper cranes, and will be running events where you can make them, or you may even make them at home and drop them off.

September, the International Day of Peace” said Bronwyn Cole, program coordinator for Goulburn Valley Libraries.

“We want people from all our communities to contribute and then come in to see the display of what we hope will be thousands of paper cranes. Community members can make one paper crane or hundreds. Our libraries will be hosting origami crane making sessions throughout August and September so even if you have never made one before you will be able to contribute to the project”.

Paper cranes can be dropped off at any Goulburn Valley Libraries branch, or to the Mobile Library from Tuesday August 1st until Thursday September 21st, the International Day of Peace.

The paper cranes can be made out of any paper but squares should be no larger than 15cm x 15cm.

Artists are encouraged to create an original art piece that represents one of five towns within the region.

piece that represents

Five winners will then be chosen, with the artwork celebrated through a limited-edition print run of coffee cups to be featured in cafes and restaurants across Greater Shepparton.

To find out more visit, shepp.city/artcontest

All cranes made will be displayed until Thursday 29th September before sending them to Japan where they will be placed at the Children's Peace Monument that stands in Peace Memorial Park in Hiroshima.

“We would like to see as many paper cranes as possible made and on display by the 21st of

If you would like to join us at one of the origami paper crane-making sessions in the library, please contact Goulburn Valley Libraries on 1300 374 765 or drop into your local branch.

For more details about this community art project check out the Goulburn Valley Libraries website www.gvlibraries.com.au.

For more information on any of these items please visit www.greatershepparton.com.au or call (03) 5832 9700.

Greater Shepparton City Council

CELEBRATE 60 YEARS OF BALLET... Excitement fills the air as Riverlinks is thrilled to announce the highly anticipated arrival of The Australian Ballet in Greater Shepparton as they celebrate their momentous 60th anniversary. Photo: Supplied

New season vogue at Arcade Fashions

THOUGH we’re still greeted by Jack Frost in the mornings, spring is well and truly on its way, making this the perfect time to update your wardrobe while ensuring that you have the perfect, comfortable items to keep you looking and feeling good.

Esteemed with some of the most beloved and trusted style brands, Arcade Fashions in the heart of the Maude Street Mall is pleased to announce the arrival of its spring and summer lines.

Bold prints, big sleeves and an abundance of gorgeous lilac are the fashion this spring, returning vibrant colours to the warmer months encompassing the full range of casual blouses, skirts, jackets, pants and more.

Special occasion pieces are also in vogue while trench coats, a transeasonal

necessity, are available in both casual denim as well as the classic options of black and beige.

Kicking up your heels across spring to summer, evening wear is set to trend in stunning skirt suits and effortlessly modish maxi dresses. Sure to turn an admiring gaze, evening garments epitomise the season’s signature salute to pastel colours, florals and lavender.

Now is also the perfect time to take advantage of half price sales on knitwear and jackets!

So, when it comes to trusted names in fashion, whether you are seeking luxe casual, a killer party dress or stylish afterfive wear, look no further than Arcade Fashions in the Maude Street Mall or shop online at www.arcadefashions.com.au.

LETTERS

Letters to the Editor

We welcome Letters to the Editor but they are not guaranteed to be included and may be edited for reasons of style or content. Letters will not be eligible for consideration if they contain defamatory material, or information of a personal nature which is not in the public domain.

COMMONWEALTH GAMES

Dear Editor,

THE cancellation of the Commonwealth Games is a huge let down to regional Victoria, which would have seen the regions showcased on an international stage. This is a lost opportunity that would have also had an extraordinary economic benefit to the regions. Instead, this government has once again failed regional Victoria with their financial mismanagement and cost blowouts, leaving the state broke and unable to support opportunities such as the Commonwealth Games.

I also feel for the many athletes, their support teams and families, who put so much on the line to be part of the Games. There has been so much money now wasted, time and effort to now be told the Games are cancelled is a disgrace and an embarrassment for our State.

Commonwealth Games Australia are disgusted by the way this has been handled and are concerned about the impact this will have attracting international sporting events. Dan Andrews wants to talk about ‘legacy’, these enduring examples of financial mismanagement will be his government’s legacy.

Yours sincerely, Kim O’Keeffe MP Member for Shepparton District

Want to have your say?

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

Please keep letters to under 200 words.

COMMUNITY CONNECT

FRUITS OF THE VALLEY CYCLO-CROSS STATE CX SERIES rounds 3 and 4 proudly presented by Shepparton Cycling Club & Aus Cycling. Men and women ABC and open Grades, boys' and girls' Young Guns and Novice Young Guns. Free on Day Entry for kids under 13 pedal bikes and balance bikes. Taking place on the July 1 and 2. For online entries day one go to entryboss. cc/races/16163, entries day two entryboss.

cc/16164.

NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH GREATER SHEPPARTON INC. AND MOOROOPNA

KIWANIS will conduct MOOROOPNA SAFE PLATE EVENT on Saturday 8th July, from 10 am – 1 pm, in Woolworths Mooroopna, car park. Safety screws will be fitted to vehicle registration plates, to prevent theft, for a gold coin donation.

left)

PROPOSAL TO UPGRADE A TELSTRA MOBILE PHONE BASE STATION WITH 4G/5G AT: 20 FRASER ST SHEPPARTON VIC 3630

1. The proposal on the existing lattice tower consists of:

• Removal of (6) antennas and (1) Parabolic antenna

• Installation of (6) panel antennas 2.533m long and (3) AIR antennas 0.827m long on new and existing mounting pipes

• Ancillary works including cabling and installation of (6) tower mast amplifiers and (3) junction boxes

• Internal works within existing equipment shelter

2. Telstra regards the proposed installation as Low-impact Facilities under the Telecommunications (Low-impact Facilities) Determination 2018 (“The Determination”) based on the description above.

3. In accordance with Section 7 of C564: 2020 Mobile Phone Base Station Deployment Code, we invite you to provide feedback about the proposal. Further information and/or comments should be directed to: Emily Wardlaw on behalf of Telstra, 0422 685 472, consultation@acquirecomm.com.au by Thursday 10 August 2023. Further information can also be obtained from https://www.rfnsa.com.au/3630004

PROPOSAL TO UPGRADE A TELSTRA MOBILE PHONE BASE STATION AT 235 QUIRKS ROAD, ARCADIA VIC 3631, SITE

1. The proposed facility comprises the swap out of six (6) redundant panel antennas (2533mm L) with six (6) new panel antennas (2533mm L); ancillary equipment including remote radio units, mounts, cabling and feeders; and internal works within the existing equipment shelter, to improve Telstra’s mobile phone network (including 5G).

2. Telstra regards the proposed installation as a ‘Low impact’ Facility under the Telecommunications (Low Impact Facilities) Determination 2018, based on the description above. The proposed infrastructure will comply with the ACMA EME regulatory arrangements.

3. In accordance with Section 7 of C564:2020 Mobile Phone Base Station Deployment Code, we invite you to provide feedback about the proposal. Further information and/or comments should be directed to: Planning Consultant on behalf of Telstra, via email to planning.vic@servicestream.com.au, phone: 03 99376555, via post to Planning Consultant, Servicestream, PO Box 14570, Melbourne, VIC 8001 by

2023 Al entries, including previous prize winners, will then be placed directly into the final draw on July 31st 2023 for the Grand $5,000 Prize in the form of a GMCU debit card and 8 x $500 prizes Prizes will be drawn after the Grand prize from all the previous winning entries. Management and staf f of participating traders are not eligible to enter this competition at their own participating businesses Management and staf f of The Adviser are not eligible to enter this competition.

PRIZES: 6 x $500 prizes per week will be drawn on June 19th and 26th, July 3rd, 10th and 17th 2023 at 4:00pm digitally at The Adviser, 38-40 Welsford Street Shepparton The Grand Prize of 1x $5,000, plus 8 x $500 consolation prizes, will be drawn after the Grand prize from all the previous winning entries. This draw will be on Monday July 31st 2023 at 4:00pm digitally at The Adviser, 38-40 Welsford Street Shepparton Prizes will be provided in the form of a Goulburn Murray Credit Union (GMCU) Gift Card except for the employee winner s’ category In addition three x $500 will be awarded to the business for the most number of entries from participating businesses who employ 1-4 people, 5-15 people and 16 or more employees These $500 x 3 prizes will be provided by The Adviser to the winning businesses in the form of a cheque

TOTAL PRIZE POOL: Total prize pool is $25,500 and all of this must be won.

UNCL AIMED PRIZES:If a winner does not claim their prize by Thursday, Augu st 31st, 2023 the prize will be re -drawn at 9:00am on We dnesday, September 20th 2023 at the of fices of “The Adviser” 38-40 Welsford Street, Shepparton and the new winner will be notified in accordance with these conditions. Any unclaimed prizes will be published in “The AGE” newspaper on Wednesday, September 13th 2023

NOTIFICATION OF WINNERS: Winners will be contac ted by phone as soon as the prizes are drawn. Names of $500 draw winners will be published in “The Adviser” on Wednesday June 21st and 28th July 5th, 12th and 19th 2023

As part of the terms of accepting the prize, the winner has to agree to having their photo published in The Adviser. The name of the $5,000 GMCU debit card prize winner and 8 x $500 consolation prizes will be published in “The Adviser” on Wednesday, August 2nd, 2023 Winners of any unclaimed prizes will be published in “The Adviser” on Wednesday, August 16th, 2023

PRIVAC Y: Information collected on entry forms will only be used to compile statistics on total value of purchases, total number of entries, total number of entrants and postcodes from various areas. No personal details will be recorded and all entry forms will be destroyed once statistics have been compiled and all prizes claimed.

Over $100,000 in funding for sports

GREATER Shepparton City Council noted the awarding of more than $100,000 in grants to local sporting clubs as part of the 'Our Sporting Future Funding', at the July Council Meeting.

The funding was made up of Round Two and Three of the 2022/2023 program, which saw 11 local clubs share in a total of $106,897.

The 'Our Sporting Future Funding' program was established to assist sporting clubs with the implementation of small to medium sized development projects and programs to help improve their leagues. Funding is available under the five categories of Major Facility Development, Minor Facility Development, Sports Aid, Women and Girls, and Junior and Youth Participation.

The types of projects which can be funded through the program include sports surface development, lighting upgrades, pavilion upgrades, disability access and participation projects. In previous years the program has helped fund projects such as a lighting upgrade for Shepparton Golf Bowling Club and a badminton coaching program for Shepp Feathers Incorporated.

Mayor, Councillor Shane Sali, said Council were pleased to award such a large amount of funding to local sporting clubs to encourage participation in sport and ensure people had access to well-maintained facilities and good sporting gear.

"Council understand the benefits of enabling participation in local sport. It helps build social skills, teaches discipline and encourages people young and old to get outside and lead fit and

healthy lifestyles," he said.

"We are really pleased to be able to award such a large amount of money to 11 local sporting clubs and organisations to help better support and train their members. Anything Council can do to encourage healthy lifestyles and promote positive participation in sport is a win."

To find out more about the Our Sporting Future Funding Program, visit Council's website greatershepparton.com.au/our-sporting-future

4 COLLINGWOOD 4 GREATER WESTERN 4 MELBOURNE 4 ST KILDA

LEONARD BALFOUR Phone: 5825 3861 61 Echuca Rd, Mooroopna ROUND 19 SELECTIONS 4 WESTERN BULLDOGS 6 HAWTHORN 4 CARLTON 4 BRISBANE LIONS 4 SYDNEY

7

6 PORT ADELAIDE 4 GREATER WESTERN 4 MELBOURNE 4 ST KILDA

CHRIS BUZZA Phone: 5825 3695 106A McLennan St, Moroopna 8 ROUND 19 SELECTIONS 4 WESTERN BULLDOGS 4 RICHMOND 4 CARLTON 6 GEELONG 4 SYDNEY

4 COLLINGWOOD 4 GREATER WESTERN 4 MELBOURNE 4 ST KILDA

JOEL COSTA Phone: 5829 3700 10 Callister St, Shepparton 7 ROUND 19 SELECTIONS 6 ESSENDON 4 RICHMOND 4 CARLTON 4 BRISBANE LIONS 4 SYDNEY

17. PHILLIP LENON Phone: 0414 993 394 Shepparton 9 ROUND 19 SELECTIONS 4 WESTERN BULLDOGS 4 RICHMOND 4 CARLTON 4 BRISBANE LIONS 4 SYDNEY

6 PORT ADELAIDE 4 GREATER WESTERN 4 MELBOURNE 4 ST KILDA

BEN BUSHBY Phone: 5825 9500 94-96 Drummond Rd, Shepparton 9 ROUND 19 SELECTIONS 4 WESTERN BULLDOGS 4 RICHMOND 4 CARLTON 4 BRISBANE LIONS 4 SYDNEY

JOSHUA MEI Phone: 5821 2906 55-57 Longstaff St, Shepparton 9 ROUND 19 SELECTIONS 4 WESTERN BULLDOGS 4 RICHMOND 4 CARLTON 4 BRISBANE LIONS 4 SYDNEY

4 COLLINGWOOD 4 GREATER WESTERN 4 MELBOURNE 4 ST KILDA

ROUND 19 SELECTIONS 4 WESTERN BULLDOGS 4 RICHMOND 4 CARLTON 4 BRISBANE LIONS 4 SYDNEY

DANIEL THEWMA Phone: 5821 7876 121 New Dookie Rd Shepparton 7 ROUND 19 SELECTIONS 4 WESTERN BULLDOGS 4 RICHMOND 4 CARLTON 6 GEELONG 6 FREMANTLE

4 COLLINGWOOD 4 GREATER WESTERN 4 MELBOURNE 4 ST KILDA

1/2 PRICE $ 1 99 EA ng 1/2

$5EA $ 574

74 SAVE $1099

Mangoes

4 COLLINGWOOD 4 GREATER WESTERN 4 MELBOURNE 4 ST KILDA

ANDREW HODGES Phone: 5823 5888 Melbourne Rd, South Shepparton 8 ROUND 19 SELECTIONS 4 WESTERN BULLDOGS 4 RICHMOND 4 CARLTON 6 GEELONG 4 SYDNEY

24 Pack 375ml Selected Varieties

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4 COLLINGWOOD 4 GREATER WESTERN 4 MELBOURNE 4 ST KILDA CRAIG BRAMLEY Phone: 5824 1122 112 Hogan St, Tatura 9 112H OG ANST,TATUR A 7DAYS -7AMT O 8PM

Tatura Christmas Essentials WWW.TATURA F OODWORKS.COM. AU

Tatura Christmas Essentials WWW.TATURAFOODWORKS.COM.AU

$44EA 24PK $ 1 99

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EA 44 24 PK Crown Lager 375ml x 24 pack White Grapes Gold Sweet Potatoes Bone In Leg Ham Half or Full Tasty Thin Sausages

FoodWorks supports the responsible service and consumption of alcohol. Persons under the age of 18 will not be served alcohol Offers available Wednesday 16th December - Tuesday 22nd December 2020 Unless sold out prior. Offers exclusive to FoodWorks Tatura.

GREAT VALUE 11 2 H OGA N ST,TATURA - 7 AM T 8 PM

4 COLLINGWOOD 4 GREATER WESTERN 4 MELBOURNE 4 ST KILDA BECC FISCHER Phone: 5820 2900 Riverside Plaza, Kialla 8 FURNITURE ROUND 19 SELECTIONS 6 ESSENDON 4 RICHMOND 4 CARLTON 4 BRISBANE LIONS 4 SYDNEY

Ye owgle Var eties

Yellowglen Sparkling 750ml Selected Varieties

NIPPER HARVEY Phone: 5858 5695 City Central Arcade, 16/69 High SheppartonSt, St, 7 ROUND 19 SELECTIONS 4 WESTERN BULLDOGS 4 RICHMOND 4 CARLTON 4 BRISBANE LIONS 6 FREMANTLE

4 COLLINGWOOD 4 GREATER WESTERN 4 MELBOURNE 4 ST KILDA

6 PORT ADELAIDE 4 GREATER WESTERN 4 MELBOURNE 4 ST KILDA

MARTIN KRUEGER Phone: 5821 5414 22 Colliver Rd, Shepparton 7 ROUND 19 SELECTIONS 4 WESTERN BULLDOGS 4 RICHMOND 4 CARLTON 4 BRISBANE LIONS 6 FREMANTLE

STEVE SNELLING Phone: 0439 982 223 29 Telford Drive, Shepparton 7 0439 982 223

6 PORT ADELAIDE 4 GREATER WESTERN 4 MELBOURNE 4 ST KILDA SAM BIRRELL Phone: 5821 5371 426 Wyndham St, Shepparton 3 ROUND 19 SELECTIONS 4 WESTERN BULLDOGS 6 HAWTHORN 6 W.C EAGLES 6 GEELONG

4 SYDNEY 4 COLLINGWOOD 6 G.C SUNS 6 ADELAIDE 6 N. MELBOURNE

• STAINLESS STEEL, MILD STEEL & ALUMINIUM GENERAL FABRICATION CNC PRESS & 3 METRE NC GUILLOTINE • SPECIALISED PROJECT ON-SITE INSTALLATION 29 Telford Drive, Shepparton VIC www.snellingengineering.com.au Fax: 5821 9515 Steve Snelling steve@snellingengineering.com.au

ROUND 19 SELECTIONS 4 WESTERN BULLDOGS 4 RICHMOND 4 CARLTON 4 BRISBANE LIONS 6 FREMANTLE

ANGELO KAKOUROS Phone: 0418 524 188 91 Welsford St, Shepparton 6 ROUND 19 SELECTIONS 6 ESSENDON 4 RICHMOND 4 CARLTON 6 GEELONG 4 SYDNEY

7 Cakes Pies Bread Birthday Cakes Award Winning Bakery ROUND 19 SELECTIONS 6 ESSENDON 4 RICHMOND 4 CARLTON 4 BRISBANE LIONS 4 SYDNEY

6 PORT ADELAIDE 4 GREATER WESTERN 4 MELBOURNE 4 ST KILDA

6 PORT ADELAIDE 4 GREATER WESTERN 4 MELBOURNE 4 ST KILDA

THE ADVISER Phone: 5832 8900 38-40 Welsford St, Shepaprton 7 ROUND 19 SELECTIONS 6 ESSENDON 4 RICHMOND 4 CARLTON 4 BRISBANE LIONS 6 FREMANTLE

4 COLLINGWOOD 4 GREATER WESTERN 4 MELBOURNE 4 ST KILDA

PAULA RYAN Phone: 5822 4555 44 Wyndham St Shepparton 7 ROUND 19 SELECTIONS 6 ESSENDON 4 RICHMOND 4 CARLTON 4 BRISBANE LIONS 4 SYDNEY

6 PORT ADELAIDE 4 GREATER WESTERN 4 MELBOURNE 4 ST KILDA

.................. 111 THE APPRENTICESHIP FACTORY

15. WENDY LOVELL 109 WENDY LOVELL LIBERAL MEMBER FOR NORTHERN VICTORIA

6 PORT ADELAIDE 4 GREATER WESTERN 4 MELBOURNE 4 ST KILDA GEORGE WELLS Phone: 5824 1267 130 Hogan St, Tatura •Cakes • Award

Football previews R15

SHEPPARTON UNITED V SHEPPARTON

Shepparton will be looking to build on its best win of 2023 when it takes on its fiercest rival Shepparton United. The Bears produced arguably their best performance to knock off premiership fancy Kyabram through winning three out of the four quarters. Co-coaches Ted Lindon and Xavier Stevenson will be drilling the players to be ready for United. The last meeting between the teams saw the Demons victorious in what was a bit of an upset. Jonty Wardle, Bryce Stephenson, Mitchell Brett, Adam De Cicco and Rising Star nominee, Jacob Watts were outstanding in the very even team performance against Kyabram. If they can continue that form it should hold the Bears in good stead to turn the tables on the Demons.

Marcus Wattie, Fergus Pinnuck, Kyle Clarke, Declan Newbound and Brodie Telford will be looking to feed the ball into Lewis Stanton and Jayden Magro to give them the chance to help the Demons kick a winning score.

While the Demons won the opening day meeting between the teams, they aren’t winning this one given the Bears have more to play for. Tip: Shepparton.

SEYMOUR V MOOROOPNA

Seymour is the real deal and looming as one of the big threats to Echuca going back-to-back. Are Mooroopna the real deal or are just making up the numbers?

We are going to find out a lot about the Cats. They have won 9 of their 10 games against teams outside top six.

Their only win against a team that will play finals is against Mansfield at home six weeks ago.

Coach John Lamont will welcome this challenge along with the remaining games against Kyabram, Mansfield and Echuca to finish off the home and away season. He will find out a lot about his team today and over the coming month.

Jackson Trengove had a day out against the Demons with a bag of 10 to take his season tally to 47 and to the top of the leaderboard.

Keelin Betson, Bryce Rutherford, Isaac Dowling and Christopher Nield were others to feast on the Demons Jack O’Sullivan, Rory Scopel, Huw Jones, Riley Mason, Joshua Alford and Michael Hartley will be looking to continue their good form and help the Lions take another massive step towards securing a top two finish. Tip: Seymour.

KYABRAM V TATURA

Kyabram will be out to avoid a third straight defeat and revive its top two aspirations. Consecutive losses by the Bombers have opened the door for Euroa and Mooroopna to potentially snatch third spot on the ladder if they are good enough. The Bombers are expected to get the job done against Tatura who is not a high scoring team. But they will face stiffer competition in the run home with matches against Mooroopna and Euroa to follow this game before rounding out their home and away campaign at Benalla.

Brad Whitford, Nic Denahy, Lachlan Smith, Jason Morgan and Thomas Holman will be important for the Bombers as they look to supply Kyle Mueller and Brad Mangan to ensure they can kick a winning score.

Ethan Penrith, Daniel Weetra, Billy Cooper, James Nihill and Comanche Walls will

be doing their best to try and restrict the Bombers to a losing total. Tip: Kyabram.

MANSFIELD V SHEPPARTON SWANS

Mansfield will look to take another step towards securing its place in the top six when it welcomes the Shepparton Swans to the high country.

Coach Chad Owens would probably be cursing Kyabram for not defeating Shepparton to end their slim finals hopes, but he knows that one win might just be enough for them given their healthy percentage. The Eagles finish with Shepparton (away), Mooroopna (home) and Euroa (away), so no easy games.

Frazer Dale, Ben Christopher, Dirk Koenen, Harry Mahoney and Brett Mahoney will be trying to lead the way to bank another win to make it difficult for the Bears who are three games adrift and a whopping 42 percent.

Zac Banch, Joeve Cooper, Ben Gilberto, Diesel Batey, Will Dwyer and Steele Simpson will be trying to lead the way for the Swans as they look to try and finish with another win or two to end 2023. Tip: Mansfield.

ROCHESTER V BENALLA

Rochester will be looking to record its fourth win of 2023 and third in the past month when it welcomes Benalla.

The Tigers have won their past two home games and had it kicked straight in the final term of last week it could have walked away from Tatura with the chocolates. The Saints last won in round 8 on June 3 at home against Rochester.

Fintan Brazil, Jordan Wolff, Nick Mellington, Christopher Welsh, Colby Mathieson and Jarrod Waite will be desperate to try and lead the way to help their team off the bottom of the ladder before season’s end. Hamish Hooppell, Reid Gordon, Bailey Wileman, Sean Williams, Dylan Gordon and Lachlan Watson will be important to try and help the Tigers to another win. Tip: Rochester.

ECHUCA V EUROA

This should be a cracking game of football. Echuca sits at the top of the pile and will be eager to finish off the home and away campaign strongly ahead of defending its title.

Euroa lost to Seymour last weekend and coach Scott Rowan would be eager for his chargers to claim a big scalp after losses to most of the teams inside the top six, only defeating Mooroopna and Mansfield in 2023. Ryan Pendlebury, Jacob Gleeson, Will Hayes, Jett Trotter and Jayden Gleeson will be pivotal in taking the game up to the reigning premier. The last meeting between the teams was a real arm wrestle.

Ruckman, Andrew Smith didn’t play against Seymour and Rowan will hope to have him back to go head-tohead with Echuca skipper and big man Kane Morris. Liam Tenace, Cameron Valentine, Hugh Byrne, Samuel Reid and Matthew Lias were some of the players to help the Murray Bombers finish off strongly in the 10-goal win over the Swans Andrew Walker didn’t play as the reigning premier manage him to be primed for September.

I expect him to play against the Magpies. Logan Prout played at Carlton last weekend, so he could also be available, depending on whether he is required for the Blues’ VFL team. I am thinking at home that the Murray Bombers should prove too good for the visiting Magpies. Tip: Echuca.