Police hunt for clues in Barbie burglary
By
Deanne Jeffers
IN A heist straight out of a toy collector’s nightmare, 150 rare Barbie dolls have been stolen from their “dream home” in Tatura.
Shepparton Police are investigating after unknown offenders forced entry to a William Street residence sometime between Thursday, December 5 and Wednesday, December 11, while the occupants were on holidays.
Continued Page 8
By Deanne Jeffers
HIS SHOT... Jimmy Morrison of Bourchier Street Primary School wrote to Tennis Australia asking for more tennis opportunities in the community, and his words struck a chord with the organisation who not only brought
Happy New Year!
TURNING THE PAGE... Welcome to the first edition of The Shepparton Adviser for 2025. The team at The Adviser would like to extend a warm welcome and best wishes for the New Year. Pictured are The Adviser general manager Will Adams and managing director Geoff Adams. Photo: Emma Harrop
AS the calendar flips to 2025, the team at The Shepparton Adviser extends a warm welcome to our readers with our first edition of the year. We are delighted to continue serving as your award-winning platform for community news, celebrating the vibrant tapestry of businesses, groups and individuals that enrich our region.
The Shepparton Adviser is proud to represent hundreds of local enterprises and groups, sharing stories that matter to the community. 2024 was a huge year for The
Adviser and the region as a whole, and we can’t wait to see what 2025 has in store. Turn to pages 12 and 13 to catch up on some of the biggest headlines from last year.
Thank you for choosing The Adviser. We wish you a fantastic year ahead.
If you have news or a story to share, an upcoming event or milestone, we would love to hear from you. Give us a call on 5832 8900 or email editorial@ sheppartonadviser.com.au
every week of the school holidays
LOCALS and visitors are invited to experience some of the homegrown activities available in Shepparton and Goulburn Valley and enjoy some special promotions and events at local venues.
Greater Shepparton City Council, through its destination brand Shepparton & Goulburn Valley, have launched the ‘Summer Super Pass’ as part of the Home for the Holidays campaign. This seasonal activity is aimed at encouraging people to enjoy local experiences and engage with businesses through special deals and promotions.
Each time residents and visitors enjoy a ‘Summer Super Pass’ activity, they will earn a sticker. Once three stickers are collected, they can enter the draw to win a $100 voucher from participating businesses, with a winner drawn each week of the school holidays.
Mayor Councillor Shane Sali said the Council was looking forward to seeing people get behind the activation and experience the wonderful things Greater Shepparton has to offer.
“We invite local residents staying ‘Home for the Holidays,’ especially those hosting family and friends, to
take advantage of the Summer Super Pass and enjoy the great experiences available in the region,” he said. You can find the Summer Super Pass flyer in participating businesses, the Greater Shepparton Visitor Centre, and the Council’s offices at 90 Welsford Street, Shepparton. The flyer lists locations of activities and special offers you can enjoy across the region this summer.
For more information regarding participating businesses and experiences, please visit the website sheppandgv.com.au
HOLIDAY FUN... Staying local these school holidays? Don’t fret, there are heaps of activities happening across the region, plus the chance to win a $100 voucher every week of the school holidays thanks to Greater Shepparton City Council’s ‘Summer
this summer. Photo: Deanne Jeffers
Exciting enhancements coming to Shepparton Sports City
SHEPPARTON'S sporting landscape is set for a major transformation with upgrades to the VISY Community Stadium, Shepparton Sports Stadium, and Shepparton Sports City, which commenced in December.
These enhancements will bring improved amenities, such as a new roof on both the Shepparton Sports Stadium and VISY stadium, as well as improvements to the shot clock, scoreboard and bench, backboard upgrades, mezzanine upgrades and safety upgrades for kitchen and courts.
A modular multi-use change room facility will be added next to VISY Community Stadium, along with new pedestrian crossings and shared path linkages to boost accessibility throughout Shepparton Sports City. An additional 2,385 meters of shared paths will connect Gemmill’s Swamp
to KidsTown and link to the Goulburn River, enhancing access to key tourism and event precincts.
These upgrades have been funded by the State Government’s Council Support Package, supporting local councils to undertake projects that will create the types of legacy outcomes that may have been generated by hosting the 2026 Commonwealth Games in regional Victoria.
Mayor Councillor Shane Sali expressed gratitude for the $3M in funding from the Council Support Package, highlighting its importance in improving community facilities. “These upgrades will elevate our capacity to host elite sporting events and community competitions, reinforcing our status as the sporting capital of regional Victoria,” said Sali.
“The upgrades will also enable basketball and badminton competitions to be held at the VISY
Community Stadium and improve walkability and accessibility to our major event spaces within the Sports City Precinct.
“We are continuing to work towards major upgrades at Shepparton Sports Stadium, however these smaller enhancements will help improve the current facilities for user groups.”
What’s changing in 2025
WITH the beginning of a new year, there are a raft of new changes that come into effect in 2025 worth noting.
Commonwealth debit surcharges
From January 1, 2025, the Federal Government stopped surcharges on debit card payments for frontline government services at the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) and Services Australia.
Passport fee increase
The cost of applying for a passport has increased to keep pace with inflation. For adults aged 18 years and older it will cost $412 for a 10-year passport, or $14 more than last year.
Short stay levy
Victorian property owners who accept bookings for accommodation for less than 28 consecutive days will now have to pay a levy under a new state law. They will pay 7.5 per cent of the total booking fees paid, which includes things like GST and cleaning fees. For more information, visit the Victorian State Revenue Office website.
Engineered stone ban takes full effect
The Australian government has banned the importation of
engineered stone, effective from January 1, 2024. This follows a ban on the manufacture, supply and installation in July. The ban aims to protect workers from silica dust exposure, which can cause deadly lung diseases. The government said banning imports was an extra deterrent to stamp out the use of engineered stone, as most products used in Australia were imported from overseas.
Centrelink payment increase
Some Centrelink payments for young Australians have been increased slightly, in line with indexation. This affects payments such as Youth Allowance, Abstudy, Austudy, and the Disability Support Pension (Under 21 with no dependent children). To learn more, go to the Department of Social Services website.
PBS indexation freeze
Prices for medicines listed on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) usually increase in line with inflation on January 1 each year. However, under a 2024 Federal budget announcement, the maximum patient cost for all PBS medicines has been frozen. This means the cost of your PBS medicines is the same rate as it was in 2024 and will not increase with indexation in 2025. The freeze will be
Work will primarily occur between January and May 2025, with minimal disruptions expected. Renovations at VISY Stadium will take place from December until April, while improvements at Shepparton Sports City are set to begin this month and are also expected to wrap up by April 2025.
for one year for general patients, which applies to everyone with a Medicare card. There will be a five-year freeze for pensioners and other Commonwealth concession card holders.
Protecting employees
Australia has criminalised intentional wage theft, with employers facing up to 10 years in prison and substantial fines. This legislation targets deliberate underpayment of wages or superannuation, aiming to deter employers from exploiting workers. It does not apply to employers who unintentionally underpay employees or who pay incorrect amounts by mistake, and small businesses won’t be referred for criminal prosecution for underpaying if they comply with the voluntary small business wage compliance code.
Further, later this year right to disconnect rules will roll out to employees of small businesses. The protections were introduced last year for large businesses, but from August 26, 2025, small business employees will be able to refuse to monitor, read or respond to contact or attempted contact from their employer or other work-related contacts outside of work hours. To learn more, go to the Fair Work Australia website.
SLAM DUNK... Renovations to the VISY Community Stadium, Shepparton Sports Stadium and Shepparton Sports City have commenced, to increase the accessibility and inclusion of the facilities for user groups. The works are funded through the Victorian Government’s Council Support Package, with Council successful in receiving $3M for these sports facility enhancements, along with an expansion to the Yahna Gurtji shared path. Photo: The Adviser
SOLAR FARM OPPOSED
At its December meeting, Campaspe Shire Council agreed to formally oppose the planning application for the Cooba Solar Farm, citing significant concerns regarding its impact on agricultural land and the local environment.
Campaspe Shire Mayor Cr Daniel Mackrell noted that Council’s submission will argue that the project does not align with the strategic planning context and fails to demonstrate strong economic community benefits, particularly in relation to job creation and procurement.
“Whilst we fully support solar energy facilities in suitable locations, we feel that the Cooba Solar Farm’s proposed site and unresolved issues make it an unsuitable choice.
“Council has been advocating against this location for many months and provided supporting information to all members of the Legislative Council during its regional sitting in April in Echuca,” Mayor Mackrell added.
AMBULANCE WAIT TIMES LEAVING REGIONAL PATIENTS AT RISK
Residents are encouraged to submit responses to a parliamentary inquiry into the performance, workplace culture and procurement policies of Ambulance Victoria (AV) amidst concerns that
AV is failing to meet official response time targets.
In the Strathbogie Shire, just 36.6 per cent of responses were achieved within 15 minutes, with the Mitchell Shire (51.9 per cent), Benalla (58.7), Greater Bendigo (61.5), Campaspe (57.9), and Greater Shepparton (71.9), all failing to meet the target.
Annabelle Cleeland MP, who is the Member for Euroa and Shadow Parliamentary Secretary for Health, said the issues stem from lack of State Government support and investment, and called for anyone with experience to have their say by February 28, 2025. To learn more go to: www. parliament.vic.gov.au/ambulancevicinquiry
KANGAROOS KEEP COOL AND CARRY ON
With temperatures soaring past 30 degrees in Victoria across summer, the kangaroo mob at Kyabram Fauna Park are keeping cool with delicious carrot icy poles prepared by keepers. After the icy poles are hung up in the trees, the curious mob – including a few adorable joeys – hop on over to the treat and use their hands to dig into their favourite summer snack. Kyabram Fauna Park Life Sciences Coordinator Ellice Duncan said the Kangaroo Island roos have thicker fur than species found in warmer parts of the continent due to the cold winters in South Australia - so they really love the icy treats.
“This mob of kangaroos are not the biggest fans of the heat, so to give them some relief we make icy blocks with their favourite food – carrot,” Ms Duncan said. “The moment they see the keepers coming with their favourite treat of carrot ice they hope right over and use their powerful legs to reach up and tackle the ice.” Victorians can help wildlife that visit their backyards and balconies during the warmer months by providing safe access to water. Simply place a shallow plastic or ceramic (non-metal) dish in a shady spot close to shrubs or trees, away from pets and roads. Create an escape route by putting a rock or stick in the water for animals to climb out if they fall in. Keep the water clean by changing it every day and more regularly on really hot days.
BLUE-GREEN ALGAE DECLINING
The blue-green algae warning for Craigmuir Lake in Mooroopna has been removed following a significant decline in algae levels. The warning for Craigmuir Lake was issued on December 12, 2024. Greater Shepparton City Council will continue to conduct regular water quality monitoring and observations, and will advise any changes via the website: www.gmwater.com.au/bluegreenalgae-alert
ACCESSIBLE FISHING
A wheelchair accessible pontoon has been constructed at Goulburn Valley Water’s
(GVW) Dunyak Moira fishing ponds just in time for extended opening hours during the school holidays. GVW installed the pontoon in partnership with Burnanga Indigenous Fishing Club, and with a grant from the Department of Energy Environment and Climate Action (DEECA). It is the latest addition to the 12-monthold community facility, which is located at Merrigum’s decommissioned Water Treatment Plant.
GVW’s managing director Dr Steve Capewell said the accessibility improvements were a natural progression in the development of the site. “This is another step toward Dunyak Moira becoming an even greater drawcard for people who have an interest in not only fishing, but in the environment, sustainability, wellbeing, and community activation,” he said.
URGENT CALL FOR DONORS
Lifeblood has issued an urgent call for blood donors this week after a record number of planned donations were cancelled last week, putting pressure on blood supplies. More than 6,500 people cancelled their donation appointments last week – the highest number of New Year week cancellations in three years. A further 14,000 people either rescheduled or did not attend their appointment.
The donation drop-off at one of the most critical times of year means an extra 12,000 people are now urgently needed to book a donation this week to replenish low blood stocks.
Lifeblood Executive Director Donor Experience Cath Stone urged people to book a donation. “We know the festive season is a busy time of year, and everyone looks forward to a well-earned break, but the need for blood has not stopped,” Cath said.
“Every day, we are issuing more than 9,500 blood and plasma transfusions and medications to Australian hospitals.”
To book a donation, call 13 14 95, visit lifeblood. com.au or download the Donate Blood App.
Colbinabbin resident Claire Tuohey speaking to Council about her concerns at the December 10, 2024 meeting. (L-R Claire Tuohey, Director Sustainability - Michael Sharp (obscured), Cr Jess Mitchell, Cr Rob Amos, Cr Tony Marwood).
GRADE six students from Gowrie Street Primary School recently had the opportunity to participate in a variety of experiences designed to connect them with their community and explore what Greater Shepparton has to offer. This initiative was made possible through a partnership between the Greater Shepparton Lighthouse Project and the Rotary Club of Shepparton Central.
The program aims to help students build confidence, develop essential social skills and broaden their horizons by exposing them to new environments, industries and potential career pathways.
Excursions included a wide range of experiences, from touring the Australia Fruit Solutions juice factory and Goulburn Valley Water’s Treatment Plant. Students also explored sustainability at the Cosgrove Waste Education Centre, visited the Arcadia Fish Hatchery, Shepparton Courthouse, Gawne Aviation and a
working sheepdog farm.
The program wrapped up on a high note at Lake Victoria in December, where volunteers from Shepparton Sailability assisted students with sailing lessons. As temperatures soared, the highlight of the day became a playful water pistol battle, where students, staff, and volunteers all joined in on the fun.
“This program opens students’ eyes to the possibilities within our region while building confidence and social skills they’ll carry into secondary school and beyond,” said Belinda Senini, Lighthouse's primary projects coordinator.
Belinda also applauded the volunteers who made the program possible. She said, “The Rotarians who volunteered their time go above and beyond to ensure the students had an unforgettable experience. Their commitment reflects the incredible support of our community.”
Presenting possibilities in partnership Northern Victoria water storage levels
Primary School Grade 6 students with a range of experiences and opportunities to connect with their community and discover what Greater Shepparton has to offer. Pictured are Jaylyn Saunder Atkinson and Richard Lilly. Photo: Supplied
LEARNING FUN... The program aims to help students build confidence, develop essential social skills, and broaden their horizons through exposure to new environments, industries, and career pathways. Pictured are Stuart Brown and Mshikelwa Ulomwene. Photo: Supplied
at Bourchier Street Primary School, Jimmy’s journey to the AO began with a persuasive letter he wrote to Tennis
In the letter, Jimmy passionately argued for the inclusion of Shepparton in Tennis Australia's Hot Shots program, presenting compelling reasons that caught the
His efforts resulted in a special “AO on the Road” visit to his school, where Tennis Australia brought the iconic Australian Open trophies to Bouchier Street in November, thrilling students and staff
“I wrote a persuasive letter... I used very good persuasive techniques—facts here, facts there,” Jimmy said, explaining the effort that went into his writing. “It was
Shepparton student’s Australian Open debut
GRAND SLAM... Bourchier Street Primary School student Jimmy Morrison, aged 10, pictured with the Australian Open (AO) men’s and women’s trophies that visited his school in November. Jimmy’s persuasive letter to Tennis Australia saw the trophies visit Shepparton last year, and he has been selected to be a Junior Hot Shots Reporter at the AO next week. Photo: Supplied
really exciting and surprising when they brought the trophies to school. We even had a tennis clinic, and I got to see the Australian Open trophies and hold the men’s one.”
Jimmy recalled the moment he held the trophy, which weighs 10kg and is valued at over $100,000. “You can’t hold it with your bare hands until you’ve won the Australian Open,” he said, describing the thrilling experience.
The wait for a response from Tennis Australia—an impressive eight months— was well worth it for Jimmy.
Next week, the enthusiastic youngster will head to Melbourne Park to take on his role as a Junior Hot Shots Reporter. Jimmy will interview players, soak up the crowd energy, and share the joy of tennis with fans around the world.
“I’m feeling pumped, super excited!”
he said. “I’m most excited about sitting up front with the Australian Open and watching the matches in person.”
Jimmy has been preparing for the big day with dedication. “Preparation is key,” he explained. “I’ve written four pages of questions and have been practising names like Medvedev.”
The Shepparton local’s passion for tennis and initiative to advocate for his community have earned him a golden ticket to one of Australia’s biggest sporting events, while also shining a spotlight on the sport in his hometown.
“What I’d say to young people is to remember that the world doesn’t change alone—it changes along with the rules of sports and everything else,” Jimmy said, offering advice to others. “Be proud of these changes and think about how you can be a part of them.”
DO YOU KNOW THIS PERSON?
Mooroopna Police are currently seeking the identity of the female pictured. Police believe the female may be able to assist with enquiries in relation to an incident which is alleged to have occurred at a Mooroopna business. If you have any information that may be able to assist, please contact Leading Senior Constable TURPIN at Mooroopna Police Station on (03) 5825 4131. Alternatively, you can remain anonymous by contacting Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000. You can also submit an online report on the Crime Stoppers website: www. crimestoppersvic.com.au/
Police hunt for clues in Barbie burglary Tatura
BUT the Barbies weren’t the only treasures taken. The thieves also made off with Elvis collectibles and a Jack Daniels-branded esky. However, it’s the Barbie collection –
meticulously gathered over 12 years – that holds both sentimental and monetary value.
Released between 1970 and 2017, the iconic dolls remain in their original packaging, a testament to their collector’s dedication. While priceless to their owner, their combined value is estimated to exceed $15,000.
Some of the dolls are exceptionally rare, and police have released images of the stolen items in hope someone may be able to provide information as to their whereabouts.
“This collection is effectively priceless for the victim and almost impossible to replace,” Acting Detective Senior Constable Lance Wiltshire said at a media conference in Shepparton on Monday.
“It’s a horrible thing to come home and find your house invaded, let alone lose something you’ve spent years compiling,” he said. “The burglary is horrifying enough, but losing the Barbie collection has been devastating for the victim.”
Senior Constable Wiltshire said, “Kenough is Ken-ough,” and hopes that the
community can assist in the return of the missing dolls. “We are really keen to get community assistance with this. We don’t have a lot to go on at this point, so we would love whatever information we can get,” Wiltshire said.
Authorities are urging the public to remain vigilant, especially on online platforms, where the thieves may attempt to sell these one-of-a-kind treasures. Wiltshire said doll collectors should be cautious of deals that seem “too good to be true” and report any unusual sales of vintage Barbie dolls to authorities for investigation.
"If you report something suspicious and it turns out to be legitimate, that’s fine. We’d rather have the option to investigate,” Wiltshire said. “If something seems unusual, like a sudden sale of a large number of vintage items, don’t hesistate to report it to the authorities.”
Anyone with information that can assist police in locating the Barbies is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report online at www. crimestoppersvic.com.au
RARE TOYS... Unknown offenders stole around 150 collectable Barbie dolls that took the owner 12 years to collect. The dolls were released between 1970 and 2017, and are estimated to be worth around $15,000. Photos: Supplied
KEN-OUGH... Pictured is Acting Detective Senior Constable Lance Wiltshire from the Crime Investigation Unit, speaking at a press conference at Shepparton Police Station on Monday regarding the Barbie dolls stolen from a Tatura home in December.. Photos: Supplied
Installation view of Yayoi Kusama’s The Hope of the Polka Dots Buried in Infinity Will Eternally Cover the Universe 2019 at Kusama’s solo exhibition Yayoi Kusama: All About Love Speaks Forever at Fosun Foundation, Shanghai. Collection of the artist ©️YAYOI KUSAMA
Aspiring for the best future
ASPIRATION DAY... Students from across the region not only got to experience all the wonderful programs on offer to them with further study and beyond, but they also got to mix with kids from other schools like Katandra West Primary School and Orrvale Primary School. From left, Izzy Felmigham KWPS, Esther Cleary KWPS, Lexi Cordy
Lilly
Exciting development to begin new school year
AFTER a successful inaugural year, welcoming 230 students from Prep to Year 7, All Saints Anglican School is set to continue its evolution as an exceptional place of faith and learning. In 2025, the school will embark on a new building project, with its unfolding masterplan set to be rolled out in stages until 2032.
Building on the school’s already outstanding, inclusive learning spaces, All Saints will add 12 new classrooms, eight for the Middle School and four for the Junior School, thanks to a $3.6M grant from the State Government. This expansion will enable the school to offer two classes at each year level from Prep
to Year 6, including new classes for Years 2, 3, 4 and 6. These additional classes are set to begin in 2026. Despite the anticipated increase in student numbers over the next five years, All Saints will continue to limit enrolments in the Junior and Middle Schools to ensure a high-quality, personalised learning experience for all students.
Along with the new classrooms, the school will begin constructing a STEAM building extension in 2026, featuring state-of-the-art facilities. This will include three science laboratories, two visual arts studios and two performing arts
rooms, offering even more opportunities for hands-on learning, creativity and exploration. These new facilities are expected to be ready for the 2027 school year.
With its values of Faith, Excellence, Justice, Respect, Integrity and Inclusion, All Saints remains dedicated to nurturing wellrounded, engaged students who are ready to meet the challenges of tomorrow. As the next stage of the master plan unfolds, the school year is already shaping up to be another exciting step in All Saints Anglican School’s remarkable educational journey.
BUILDING ON SUCCESS... Set to continue its evolution as an exceptional place of faith and learning, All Saints Anglican School will embark on a new project this year. Thanks to a $3.6M grant from the State Government, the school will build classrooms to accomodate an extra class for Years 2,3,4 and 6 in readiness for 2026. As part of the school’s exciting and unfolding master plan, which will be rolled out in stages until 2032, subsequent years will also see the construction of a STEAM building extension, featuring state-of-the-art facilities, including science laboratories, visual art studios and and performing arts rooms. Pictured is the thriving, educational community at All Saints Anglican School. Photo: Emma Harrop
OPS, Billy Kop GSSC and
McLarty KWPS. Photo: Aaron Cordy.
BULLET PROOF... Mooroopna Primary School Students learnt about the exciting opportunities a roll with the Victorian Police. From left, Worakai Larkins, Alfred Thornton, Tessy Wanding, Sophie Simpson, Harmony Hexter-Briggs and Kiara Renden. Photo: Aaron Cordy.
FIRE TRUCK... Murchison Primary School students, Macy Harrap and Esther Ewart were frilled to see the insides of a fire truck at GSSC Aspirations Day. Over 600 grade 5 students were shown a sneak peek into the classes and courses along with where that might lead as they continue through their education. Photo: Aaron Cordy.
MUSIC INSPIRATION... Talented GSSC Lucy and Stephanie Ludlow share their musical journey with students from Bourchier Street Primary School at Aspirations Day. Photo: Aaron Cordy.
FEEDING THE MASSES... As well as being fed knowledge about what High School and beyond can offer, the 600+ visiting students were fed a delicious BBQ lunch thanks to the Rotary Club of South Shepparton and Mooroopna. Grahamvale Primary School students from left Lincoln Hunter, Landon Barry, Tessa Betson, Lottie Palmer and Maddy Forys enjoy a sausage served by South Shepparton Rotary’s Pure Earle and Lindsay Black. Photo: Aaron Cordy.
Make savings and beat the rush ahead of the new school year
AS the new school year approaches, now is the perfect time to get your child’s uniform sorted, and The School Uniform Shop (GV Uniform Pty Ltd) makes it easier than ever. Whether you’re shopping for a primary or secondary school student, the store offers a wide range of high-quality uniforms to ensure your child looks smart, feels comfortable, and is ready to learn.
From dresses, shirts, and blouses to shorts, trousers, socks and accessories, The School Uniform Shop has everything you need to meet the requirements of local schools, including Greater Shepparton Secondary College, Bourchier Street Primary and Sacred Heart Tatura, to name a few. The friendly and knowledgeable team is dedicated to providing expert, efficient service, helping make your backto-school preparations stress-free.
The store will reopen after the Christmas break on January 6, giving you the chance to get ahead of the rush. Plus, if your child attends a government or non-government school that participates in the Camps, Sports, and Excursion Fund (CSEF), you can save up to $400 on uniforms through the School Savings Bonus. Greater Shepparton Secondary College students can also enjoy additional savings with halfprice specials on selected items, such as short-sleeved shirts, blouses and shorts, throughout January and February.
Don’t wait until the last minute, visit The School Uniform Shop (GV Uniform Pty Ltd) at 183 Corio Street and get your back-to-school shopping done early for a smooth, organised start to the new school year.
PRIMARY SCHOOLS
• • Bourchier Street Primary School
• Dookie Primary School
• • Grahamvale Primary School
• Guthrie Street Primary School
• Katandra West Primary School
• Mooroopna North Primary School
• Mooroopna Primary School
• Murchison Primary School
• Orrvale Primary School
• • Sacred Heart Tatura
• St. Brendan’s Primary School
• • St Mary’s Mooroopna Primary School
• St Mels Primary School
• • Toolamba Primary School
• Banmira Specialist School (Formerly Verney Rd Primary School)
GET AHEAD OF THE RUSH... and kick-off a seamless start to the new school year by heading into The School Uniform Shop. Whether you’re shopping for a primary or secondary school student, the store offers a wide range of high-quality uniforms to
assistant, Sandy. Photo:Natasha Fujimoto
YOUR YEAR IN REVIEW 2024
JANUARY
Old school sites given new life
The future of the school sites closed after students moved to Greater Shepparton Secondary College was announced at the start of the year. The former Mooroopna Secondary College site will house Rumbalara Aboriginal Co-operative; Wanganui campus will become the home of Verney Road School (now renamed Banmira Specialist School); and the McGuire Campus will house the GOTAFE Trade Training Centre.
FEBRUARY
Nine wards named for Greater Shepparton
The official names of the nine wards Greater Shepparton was broken into for the 2024 Local Government Elections were revealed. These are Midland, Pine Lodge, Goulburn River, McEwan, Balaclava, Poplar, Kialla, Lower Goulburn, Goulburn River and Yanha Gurtji.
AUGUST
Shepparton Adviser 40 years
Celebrating publishing history this month, The Adviser reached two significant milestones, printing and distributing more than 55 million copies during its 40-year history, as well as a multi-generational family contribution to country newspapers around Victoria.
JULY
Job losses loom as
Dhurringile Prison prepares to close
It was announced in July that Dhurringile Prison would be decommissioned in August, impacting the near-200 staff members that worked at the facility until its closure.
It is not unusual for newspaper publishers to be generational. Publisher of The Adviser, Geoff Adams, has four generations of newspaper publishing history on his mother Angela (Higgins’) side and three generations of newspaper publishing history on his father’s side. GCA Adams (deceased) published newspapers in the Colac district, GJC Adams published newspapers in Casterton, Coleraine, Portland and Benalla and helped found The Adviser before launching a publishing business in the United Kingdom in the 1980s. From the UK, GJC continues to take a close interest in The Adviser. GCA, was made a Member of the British Empire (MBE), was a Life Member of the Victorian Country Press Association and three generations of Geoffreys have held presidencies at the Victorian Country Press Association.
MARCH
Youth Girls Team of the Decade announced
THE MBCM Northern Country Women’s League (NCWL) Youth Girls Football Competition celebrated its 10th Anniversary last year at a gala function in March. The final ‘Team of the Decade’ was announced on the night. The League welcomed four new teams from three clubs, marking continued growth in female football participation. As a result, the League was renamed AFL Goulburn Murray Women’s & Girls to better represent the expanded competition.
SEPTEMBER
Munarra Centre
The historic grand opening of the Munarra Centre for Regional Excellence took place in August, with The Adviser publishing its commemorative feature about this new educational facility in September. Students at the Academy of Sport Health and Education (ASHE) are now studying at the campus and in 2025 it will be rebranded as the Munarra Academy, marking a transformational shift in educational pathways, particularly for First Nations Australians.
Foodshare secures future with new permanent warehouse
Works got underway to construct Shepparton Foodshare’s new warehouse, providing a permanent site for the organisation to operate its food rescue, warehousing and distribution service. The new warehouse will include loading facilities, meeting rooms, an administrative office, storage space, a community kitchen and amenities, parking and space for volunteers to socialise.
APRIL
New purple lid bins roll out
The hotly debated purple lid bin for disposing of glass was rolled out in Greater Shepparton. The Separate Glass Collection initiative will become compulsory for all councils by 2030. Anticipating this shift, Greater Shepparton City Council opted to adopt the individual bin option ahead of schedule, aiming to secure additional State Government funding and make the service more accessible to the community.
OCTOBER
Watters Electrical inducted into Hall of Fame
At the 2024 Greater Shepparton SPC Business Excellence Awards, local company Watters Electrical was inducted into the Business Hall of Fame. Whilst Watters is now a large robust electrical contracting business, and as big as the large metro contractors, one of its greatest attributes is that it has remained a locally owned family business now with 67 years of trading history, currently employing 260 FTE staff, including 71 apprentices.
JUNE
Locals receive King's
NOVEMBER
Nine new councillors
Greater Shepparton voters elected nine councillors, each representing a different ward in the electorate. Councillor Sam Spinks was re-elected unopposed, and other re-elected councillors are Cr Fern Summer, Mayor Cr Shane Sali and deputy mayor Cr Anthony Brophy. Newly elected representatives are Cr Rod Schubert, elected unopposed, as well as Paul Wickam, Steven Threlfall, Keiron Eddy, and Geoff Akers.
DECEMBER
Julie Keillor three awards
All-abilities advocate Julie Keillor, a volunteer with the Shepparton Canoe Club for 12 years, has been named Sport Volunteer of the Year at the Australian Sports Commission (ASC) AIS Sport Performance Awards (ASPAs). Julie, a disability support worker, was chosen from approximately 150 nominees. This was the third recent accolade for Julie’s work with the Shepparton Canoe Club. Earlier this year, she was named Paddle Victoria and Paddle Australia’s Volunteer of the Year.
From Gotham to Kialla: Unforgettable exhibitions at MOVE
By Deanne Jeffers
LOOKING for something unique to do during these school holidays? You won't want to miss the chance to see the Batmobile in the flesh on display this January at the Museum of Vehicle Evolution (MOVE).
The 1966 Batmobile was licensed by DC Comics and Warner Brothers and comes in at 5.74m in length, 2.11m wide and weighs 2,132kg! The Batmobile has an LS7 7.0-litre engine, a 4L60e transmission, and a healthy 625 horsepower.
In true superhero style, it is fitted with several bat gadgets, including a working flame thrower, bat confetti cannons, a gold bat beam on an automatic antenna, a batphone, a five-light sequence flasher, detecta-scope, and a remote 'Bat-computer switch'. The centre console features a light and silver T-arm lever, while the rear has deist parachute packs to slow the Batmobile down at incredible speeds.
The Batmobile has been generously donated for display by the Superheroes Foundation, a non-profit charity easing the financial strain faced by individuals living with brain cancer.
The Batman Fights Brain Cancer campaign seeks to help improve the quality of life for people diagnosed with brain cancer, with 100 per cent of funds raised donated directly to impacted families. You can donate to this worthy cause at MOVE, with a collection box at the display.
With an ever-changing range of displays of modern and historical cars, trucks, buses, bikes, and even vintage fashions, MOVE is an excellent choice for school holiday
entertainment.
Other popular displays that you can explore include some of Australia's very best show cars from Southern Rod & Custom and Maskell's Customs & Classics, the Formula 1 Oscar Piastri exhibition, and heaps more.
Open 10am to 4pm, seven days a week, visitors can take advantage of Greater Shepparton City Council's 'Summer Super Pass' offer during the school holidays with $10 off a MOVE Family Entry and prizes to be won for spending school holidays at participating businesses including MOVE. MOVE is located at 7723 Goulburn Valley Hwy, Kialla. To learn more about the Summer Super Pass, visit sheppandgv.com.au
WHAM, BIFF… For the kids and big kids alike, you cannot go past the 1966 Batmobile now on display at the Museum of Vehicle Evolution (MOVE).
Kitted out with all kinds of crime-fighting gadgets including a working flame thrower, detect-a-scope and bat confetti cannons, this unmissable exhibition is also helping to raise funds for individuals living with brain cancer. Be sure to check it out before it moves on! Photos: Deanne Jeffers
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THE 7 TRADED PLAYERS WHO WILL HAVE AN IMMEDIATE IMPACT IN 2025
SEN
WITH the trade period done and dusted, the focus now turns to the fallout of all the deals.
Garry Lyon and Kane Cornes have taken a look at the players they believe will have a major impact at their new club in 2025.
Lyon chose five with Cornes adding a further two.
“Five players at the end of all this, I think, can have a real meaningful impact on the clubs that they've arrived at,” Lyon said on SEN Breakfast.
Dan Houston (Collingwood)
“Dan Houston helps Collingwood, I don't think there's any doubt about that,” Lyon continued.
“He's a star. Now, you can argue about what they're doing in terms of players over picks and all that stuff.
“But he is a star and will have an impact.”
Shai Bolton (Fremantle)
“Shai Bolton changes Fremantle for mine. I don't think there's any question.
“I think he checked out halfway through the year (at Richmond).
“I thought he had a real disappointing back half of the year when I compared the way he finished the season with Liam Baker, but he will change Freo.”
Tom Barrass and Josh Battle (Hawthorn)
“I’ve got both of them at Hawthorn - Barrass and Battle.
“Now Barrass certainly. Battle, you can argue.
“But I think what they do to that side, and given the flexibility of James Sicily, who I rate so highly, that changes them even more.”
Daniel Rioli (Gold Coast)
“I’ve got him in there changing, perhaps attitude and mindset, and the way they attack from the back half.
“Perhaps he can help things be a bit more aggressive around Gold Coast.”
Cornes added a further two players who he feels can impact greatly next season.
Liam Baker (West Coast)
“Because he went to West Coast, it’s not going to matter, but Baker is a good addition,” said Cornes.
“He's not going to help them go from two wins to 11, but he's going to be an important player at that footy club for the next five to six years for a variety of reasons.
“He’s an excellent player, gives
them some flexibility and leadership.”
Bailey Smith (Geelong)
“I would think Bailey Smith.
“If they can get him through a full pre-season and get him right, I think he does help Geelong with the midfield issues that they have.
Lyon added: “I agree the best version of him, but I want to see it
coming off 12 months out of footy.
“But I haven't got Bailey Smith on the basis that he's been a year out, so I'm not prepared to say he's going to walk in and change things immediately.
“He may. By Round 3, I might go, ‘Yep, he's back’, because I know he can play footy, but he's coming off an ACL.”
New start: Former Tiger, Shai Bolton will change Freo according to Garry Lyon. Photo: RICHARD WAINWRIGHT/AAP IMAGE
Summer Super
