Girgarre Gazette
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December 2018/January2019
Girgarre Gazette
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December 2018/January2019
COORDINATORS CATCH UP Merry Christmas! There is no denying it now the festive season is truly upon us and I sincerely hope everyone is more organised than I am. With Christmas in mind, I need to give a huge thank you to Steele Gregory who painted the Christmas boxes you can see hanging in the large gumtree at the town park. They look fantastic! Irene, our wonderful volunteer editor, is combining December and January editions, as we will be closing over Christmas. Because of this, this edition of The Gazette is jam-packed so please take notes of all of the events, which are occurring. On that front we have The towns Christmas Carols on the 7th December at The Soundshell, our Cottage break-up dinner on the 14th December Girgarre 100 years on the 16th December, the Hay Bale Christmas competi-
tion, The Moosic Muster, Australia Day and the weird and wonderful vegie competition – you should be tending to those gardens as we speak! Our ambassador for Australia Day is Dr Yvonne Ho accomplished in both the medical and music fields. I cannot wait to meet this remarkable woman and listen to her speak. Make sure you join us this Australia Day Saturday the 26 of January at 8.15am at the Memorial Hall. Flag raising, ambassador address, Girgarre Community award, live music and breakfast (supplied). The Cottage will be closed Friday the 21st December and reopening Monday the 7th of January. I hope everyone has a safe Christmas and enjoys their time with family and friends. Merry Christmas to you all. Take care and bye for now. - Kezia
Join Girgarre’s Australia Day Ambassador for 2019 Dr Yvonne Ho AM (Member of the Order of Australia, Australia Awards Winner, Inductee of the Victorian Honour Roll of Women) PROGRAM
PROGRAM 8.15am for 8.30am start.
8.15am for a 8.30pm start. Flag Raising/National Anthem Flag Raising/National Anthem 8.40am Memorial hall –MC-Bernie Ryan 8.40am Memorial hall- MC-T Bernie Ryan 8.45am – Ambassador’s address (Dr Yvone Ho) 8.45am- Ambassador’s address (Yvonne Ho) Girgarre Community of the Yearyear Award Girgarre Australian of the 9.00am hankyou you 9.00 MCMC thank 9.15-9.45 live music 9.15 -9.45 live music 9.45onwards onwards Breakfast Breakfast 9.45
Saturday 26 January
Join your local friends and visitors for a delicious breakfast provided by the Girgarre Cottage Volunteers. All welcome.
http://www.DrYvonneHo.com http://www.CharterisMusicSchool.com)
CHRISTMAS CAROLS
GIRGARRE Kids, SANTA is coming to Girgarre - 7pm on Friday 7th December
At the Soundshell
at the Soundshell.
Coffee Cart available Please bring a plate of supper 7pm
Friday 7th December
Music and Carols
ALL WELCOME Contact: The Cottage Ph: 5854 6482 Front cover: Current School Principal, Peter Caldow with staff members - L-R Kirsty Rankin, Nina Slade, Deborah King, Ashleigh Buckland. Lower right: Noel Wiltshire , dressed as WW1 soldier for Armistice Commemoration . Debra Stelzer looking on (see story page 22). Cover design by HiViz Event Management and Promotions
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December 2018/January2019
10 –13 January 2019 YOUR LOCAL FESTIVAL
SOUNDSHELL TO “STAR” IN MOOSIC MUSTER Summertime… and the strummin’ is easy in Girgarre’s new Soundshell. The Moosic Muster is coming up on January 10-13 and the gala Saturday night concert will be at the Gargarro Soundshell for the first time. What an impressive setting for you to hear some of Victoria’s finest acoustic artists. “It’s going to be an amazing experience for all of us,” says muster director Jan Smith. “Imagine kicking back on a balmy summer’s evening on our sloping amphitheatre lawn, with drinks and nibbles, and enjoying top-class music – and all for free.” Excitement is building in the district and among the music community as planning for the thirteenth muster comes together, with several new highlights: • •
A doubling of open mic time A ukulele workshop held at its own dedicated venue, the recreation reserve • Evening concerts of high quality • 40+ workshops Organisers say these changes are due to public demand - the popularity of ukuleles is huge and continues to grow, and the demand for open mic is very strong. So many music lovers have been arriving early that the Muster now officially starts at 10 am on the Thursday with the whole day and part of Friday given over to open mic. There will be more chances to take your turn on stage and “strut your stuff” throughout the weekend. Friday night features the usual two concerts at the
Memorial hall and Supper room but on Saturday night just the one big concert takes place at the Soundshell, with food and amenities available there. Expect evenings full of variety and first-class playing. Among the dozens of workshops will be some never offered before, such as tuition for bodhran (the Irish drum) and how to maintain your instrument. All music at the Muster is free. Styles cover bluegrass, folk, blues, country, pop, gospel and contemporary music. Harmony singing, which attracts the biggest roll-up of all, is back, along with the special Jigarre Jammin’ community jam, the ’60s singalong, song writing, the hilarious joke competition, the Sunday gospel singalong and the Sunday market with visiting bands playing. For primary kids there’s the free Junior Muster, comprising comic characters, music, crafts, poetry and games. And there’s even free instrument loans for those wanting to try something new. Continuous informal jams take place around the site, and anyone is welcome to join in. The only charge is for camping at the site but the fee includes three meals and full use of amenities over the entire Muster period. The full program is close to finalised. Keep an eye on the web page: http://girgarre.com.au. For more details: Muster director Jan Smith: PH:(03)5854 6283/0458 546 283. E: garryandjan@bigpond.com. Workshop coordinator Di Burgmann: PH: 0408 011 634 E: diburgmann@hotmail.com. More on the Muster Page 9
Below: Strumming along (and a little whistle blowing) at last January’s Muster
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December 2018/January2019
THE MAGIC OF CHRISTMAS
STANHOPE COMMUNITY CAROLS McEwen Place, Stanhope
Friday 14th December. Free BBQ, Fairy Floss, Snow Cones &
Jumping Castle. Music by the Rushworth and District and Shine Church Bands. Join in singing Christmas carols and songs with the Primary and Kindergarten children. CONTACT: Christine Dicketts Ph: 5857 2415
THE REAL THING FRESH CHRISTMAS TREES Cottage Ph: 58546482
VICTORIA'S MOST FRIENDLY AND AFFORDABLE ACOUSTIC FESTIVAL -
Fill the house with the beautiful scent of a fresh pine tree this Christmas. They are not easy to come by so take up the opportunity offered by the Tatura Lions and order yours now. Available on Saturday December 1st, 8th and 15th. The Lions representatives will also be at Bunnings Shepparton from 10 am on those dates until sold out. The trees are beautifully manicured and come in sizes 5ft to 12ft. Lions recommend you pre order to guarantee your choice of size.
CONTACT: Sharon Ph: 0416 494 476
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December 2018/January2019
Celebrating 100 years of Excellent Education Current students performing at the official ceremony
Below: Past and present Staff members. Centre: Opening the Time Capsule: Ian Wadelton, Wayne Sefton-Rowston, Cr John Zobec. Below right: Cutting the centenary cake: Laurel Cribbes (Pickett), Mayley Patten-Boers, Joyce Kirkby (Phillips).
The Girgarre school’s centenary celebrations began on Friday 9 November with an Open Day at the school. The students and staff dressing in clothing reminiscent of 1918. The students participated in a range of olden day activities and throughout the day many people including Damian Drum MHR, visited the school. A great coverage of the event was televised on WIN TV’s local news that evening. On Saturday, the school ground and classrooms were abuzz with the chatter of former classmates, colleagues and friends. Around 350 plus people attended during the day with 164 partaking of the dinner on the Saturday night. The school’s surrounds were a picture thanks to the efforts of Reg Ramage, the weeding brigades and the spruce-up crew, which incidentally, had its working bee on the actual day that the school opened 100 years ago, November 4. During the official ceremony, Principal Peter Caldow welcomed those present and the current students performed a few songs accompanied by Peter and Di Burgman. The centenary cake which featured pictures of the school in 1929 and 2018, was cut by the oldest exstudent (Joyce Kirkby) and the youngest current student (Mayley Patten-Boers), present on the day. A 1930s exstudent, who had travelled from Lilydale, assisted with cutting the cake. School captains Jasmine Westley and Hayley Hancock placed the time capsule, which will be opened in 2043, into the cavity of the centenary wall. This was followed by the removal of the two time capsules, one of which was buried on the school’s 75th
anniversary in 1993 and the other on the centenary of Federation in 2001. Opening the capsules required some effort with the men taking it in turns to saw through the pipes. Obviously, preparations were spot on when the capsules were buried because the contents of both were in A1 condition. Capsule content contributors then enjoyed reading what they had written all those years ago. Cheryl Wickham found son David’s piece which included that he wanted to become a Qantas pilot – currently he is an Emirates pilot! There were letters from now deceased persons addressed to their descendants, who were rather overcome with emotion, upon reading the contents. The school presented glasses to those who had travelled the furthest to be present at the day. Hal Rohlman who was an exchange teacher in 1985, and his wife Helen, live in Alaska and ex- student, Soraya Lennie’s home is now in Turkey. During the day, face painting organised by Kym Patten and Meshelle Catalano’s petting zoo, provided entertainment for the children who also received showbags organised by Meshelle. A delicious BBQ lunch prepared by the Friends of the Garden, beverages from the Parents and Friends stall and the BEANZ BUS and Dennis’ ice-cream kept the hunger pangs at bay. Great service by all! Thank you to everyone for your input - you all contributed towards a most successful centenary celebration. - Peter Caldow.
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GARBAGE COLLECTION OVER CHRISTMAS
December 2018/January2019
AUSTRALIA DAY AWARDS 2019
CAMPASPE SHIRE COUNCIL With a number of declared public holidays over the festive period, Campaspe Shire Council’s waste and recycling service provider, Veolia, has had to change a couple of collection days. It affects households and businesses which normally have their rubbish, recycling or green waste collected on a Tuesday. The changes affect all households and businesses in Girgarre township, Girgarre rural areas as well as parts of Rochester, Kyabram and Echuca. Usual collection day
Change to
Monday, 24 December Tuesday, 25 December Wednesday, 26 December Thursday, 27 December Friday, 28 December Monday, 31 December
Collections as normal Sunday, 23 December Collections as normal Collections as normal Collections as normal Collections as normal
Tuesday, 1 January
Sunday, 30 December
Nominations are now being sort for the annual Girgarre Australia Day awards to be presented on 26th January. Nomination forms for the Shire of Campaspe awards can be found on the Shire website or from the Cottage. The Cottage also has nomination forms for the Girgarre Community Award (for any individual
or local group deemed worthy of recognition). Nominations close for the Shire of Campaspe Awards at 5pm on Friday 7th December and for the Girgarre Community Award at 3pm on Monday 10 December. Enquiries: Carol Ohlin Ph:5854 6371 or the Cottage PH: 5854 6482.
Remember to put your bins out the night before the collection is due.
MILESTONE CENTENARY OF GIRGARRE TOWNSHIP To celebrate the centenary of the proclamation of Girgarre as a township on 17 December 1918, Friends of the Garden are catering for a chicken and champagne/soft drink lunch at the Botanic Garden on Sunday, 16 December 2018 at noon. Cost of the meal which includes chicken, salads and fresh fruit accompanied by two glasses of champagne or soft drink, is $20 each or $50 a family. You may also bring your own drinks. An official ceremony including the planting of two trees, will take place at 1.30 pm. All welcome.
NOTE: FOR CATERING PURPOSES, PRE-PAYMENT OF MEALS IS REQUIRED BY TUESDAY, 11 DECEMBER Live music will be provided. You are invited to dress in period costume but this is optional. All proceeds of the day will go to the Friends of the Garden. For further information contact Bernie Ryan 5857 2407 or Sandra McDonald 58546324. Tickets are available from the Community Cottage Monday to Thursday from 10 am until 3 pm.
PETS ON PARADE The Pet Parade at last month’s Farmers Market was judged a success by all who stepped up with their furry, feathered and other novel pets. Every entry was given a prize of Pet goodies as a reward for their pets for good behaviour. Organiser Bill Casey was pleased with the result. “Entries were a little slow getting off the ground” he said afterwards “but in the end there was a good turn up and a nice variety, including colourful birds and a lizard and a baby goat. Thank you to all who came along and made it a success, and thank you to Girgarre’s Di Kemp for the beautiful rosettes awarded to each participant”.
Above Right: Valentino Catalano with his pet Shingle Back Lizard. Right: Lachie Atkins holding his French Bulldog and Shaun Atkins with his pet Kid.
Girgarre Gazette
GREEN THUMBS NURSERY
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December 2018/January2019
Carol’s Garden Notes
Supporting your community car Pumpkins not yet planted?
WEIRD AND WONDERFUL VEGGIES
MARKET DAY 14 APRIL 2019 Eligibility Guidelines Details of this event are almost finalised with more information to follow. This event is unsponsored and the competitive sections have been limited to locals, listed as follows:- Veggies on display - Open to all comers, including professional growers.
Sections 1 - 5 - growers must reside within close proximity of Girgarre & Stanhope. Section 6 – same as sections 1 – 5 including Girgarre and Stanhope Schools & Pre-schools. All sections are listed on the Girgarre Community Cottage Facebook page.
SPECIALS - Nursery specials: Chrysanthemums, Helena Pocket (white), pink, yellow and mixed- unknown colours $1.50 ea. Un-named day lilies $2, Hellebores (mainly burgundy) $3 and pink or white Rock Roses $2.50 all available until cleared. Contact the Green Thumbs Nursery Mondays and Wednesdays, 10 – 1pm or by appointment. Contact: Loraine 0438 546 237 or Carol 5854 6371
Try Galeux D’Eysines 14 weeks to maturity. Potimarron, 13 weeks and Wee B Willie, 12 weeks (see November Gazette). You could also plant zucchinis and cucumbers; most require 8 to 10 weeks and beans. Beans enjoy hot weather and hand watering overhead using a spray setting once the plants are established encourages flowering and fruit set. Maybe sow some now & a second crop of these vegetables a week before school goes back to mature in mid autumn. Use your imagination, seed packet information and the internet if you are looking for more ideas. Tips for summer & school holidays. Avoid watering & tending your vegetables in the heat of the day. Remember on very hot days snakes will also be more active in early morning and evening so ensure you exercise caution. Use a spray setting when watering seeds and seedlings held not too close to them so you don’t wash them out, but keep them damp - don’t allow them to dry out. As they become established you might choose to irrigate sections of your garden, then the
soil will retain more moisture enabling you to skip some days. When your plants look stressed at the end of the day they need a drink. Over watering root vegetables may cause them to rot. Developing pumpkins need to be on raised ground not allowed to sit in water should we have a major rain event. If they are low, fill the depressions or make sure you dig a trench to enable water to drain away. Tomatoes. If you decide to grow tomatoes it’s important to practise fruit fly control. Install a fruit fly trap close to your tomatoes. Check it at least once a week. Remove lower leaves from tomatoes and stake plants so fruit can not touch the ground. Pick your tomatoes at the first sign of colour and allow them to ripen inside your house. I place mine in my tea towel drawer. Pick up and double bag and dispose of any fallen tomatoes or other fruit by sealing the bag and leaving in sun a few weeks to decompose & kill any fruit fly larva before placing it in the bin. Until February happy gardening! - Carol
Volunteer of the month - The extraordinary and talented garden tipster, Carol Ohlin.
Congratulations to all on a wonderful celebration of the Centenary of the Girgarre Primary School. The unveiling of the plaque at R.S.L. and a great market. The atmosphere was fabulous and infectious, what good things happen in small communities! The Bank held its AGM on the 21 November. Putting together a review of the year’s activities gave us a great sense of satisfaction and a glimpse of the good things the Bank, and the local communities who bank with us, can achieve over a year. The sponsorships, grants and scholarships that we distribute to our communities make such a difference. Here is a summary of the contributions the
Rushworth & District Community Bank has made to the Girgarre district organisations over the past year. $ 40,000.00 to the Gargarro Gardens Project. $ 5,000 to the Moosic Muster. $ 800.00 to the Girgarre and District Cricket Club. $ 400.00 to the annual Open Gardens day. $ 2,500.00 to the RSL (includes a $2,000.00 sponsorship) $ 100.00 Scholarship grant to the Girgarre Primary School. The Committee and Staff at the Rushworth and District Community Bank wish all a Merry Christmas and Prosperous and Healthy New Year. Christine Borger, Chair.
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December 2018/January2019
Development Group Annual General Meeting 27 November Jan Smith –It’s been a wonderful 2 years for our community activities re the Small Town Transformation Grant. A huge thanks to Graeme leak, Robyn Fox and Gloria Loughman – all have left lasting legacies in our small town in addition to our beautiful Soundshell, the construction of the Grand Avenue in the Botanic Garden and the new web site www.girgarre.com.au. Diversified Farmers Group - Duncan Rodrick reported that the group is a very diverse group producing everything from pigs to vegetables, from flowers to beef and a lot of produce in between. The group has visited all member farms and offers encouragement and support to individual pursuits in these trying times in agriculture. RSL Report - Rob Axen reported that the RSL, with a membership of 23 persons has had an amazing year with construction of the WW1 Soldier Settlement and Closer Settlement Gabion Wall, new honour board, the Anzac Day and Remembrance Day events, the repairs to ceiling and lighting undertaken as well as undertaking the catering at the Moosic Muster and Bush Dance. Chook Auction Greg Fitzpatrick reported that 6 chook auctions were held this year and in excess of $5000 was raised. Greg also reported the wind up evening for the market volunteers was enjoyed by all and thanked the Lions Club for the use of their caravan. Market - It was reported that the Girgarre Market is holding its own in a very competitive scene. Broadening of stall holders has increase interest among market attendees. It is estimated that the market contributes well over $40,000 each year to the finances of participating groups within Girgarre as well as creating a destination within Campaspe. Community Cottage - Report Duncan Rodrick reported that the Cottage has continued to provide a very wide range of services to our community including the Community Car, the Seniors Program, the Girgarre Gazette, the local food bank to name but a few. A new committee is looking forward to a bright future in delivering to the Girgarre community the services that ensure a richer life style for Girgarre residents. Open Gardens - Loraine Warde reported a very successful event featuring 5 beautiful gardens. Almost 300 people enjoying the day.This year the Open Gardens team partnered with the Friends of the Gardens with the day raising $ 6.000 for both organisations. Hall Committee - Dennis Hammond reported that the Girgarre Memorial Hall had enjoyed a very busy year with the complex being hired out 230 times for the year. The beautiful Quilt panels are now front and centre of our grand old hall and that a new commercial stove has been installed in the kitchen. Landcare - Bernie Fitzpatrick reported that Landcare has been regrouped after 10 years and is collaborating with the Rail Trail Group to extend the walking track between Girgarre and Stanhope. Girgarre – Stanhope Rail Trail. Sandra McDonald reported that after very lengthy negotiations 3 of 4 Crown Leases
have been relinquished and DEWLP have approved the reservation of the relevant allotments to enable the Rail Trail project to proceed. An interim licence has been granted to the Girgarre Development Group to allow access to the sites. A significant grant of $25,000 will see the Landcare group and the Rail Trail group undertake works on Stage 3 of the trail. This is a Girgarre/Stanhope project. Parks and Gardens - John Warde reported that drought was making maintenance of lawns around park extremely time consuming. John also reported that another 150 trees and shrubs have been planted requiring additional watering. CFA – Marie Gadinsky reported that the fire season is so far quiet although predictions for 2019 are not so positive. Friends of the Gardens - Bernie Ryan reported that Friends have had an extremely busy year with fund raising which included the Italian Fine Dining, Open Gardens, the School Centenary and West Funeral Wake. The Friends have also been very busy with working bees at the Gardens undertaking additional planting as well as mulching and watering. The CFA have been an enormous assistance with the watering. Gargarro - Doc McDonald reported that highlights of the year included the completion of the Soundshell and the Amphitheatre. Plantings have been completed on the Eastern and Southern perimeters. Jigarre Jammin’- It was reported that the popularity of Jigarre Jammin’ continues with often 60 musicians gathering in the Girgarre Hall to make music each month. Two camp overs were held during the year and both were extremely well attended. Girgarre Tennis Club - Duncan Roderick reported that this year there is 1 senior team and 3 junior teams participating in the competition. Also the Tennis Club ran a successful Hot Shots program for Juniors. Girgarre Moosic Muster – Another successful Muster overall, including an extremely successful workshop program of 40 differing opportunities for people to participate in musically. One thousand six hundred workshop positions were filled during the festival. Talented Tiny Towns – this innovative program of the Development Group has seen the program join with the Campaspe Shire Council to take the program to additional towns – the program is about groups within communities working together to enable change. Girgarre Recreation Reserve Greg Fitzpatrick reported that while they wait for the tennis court re-sheeting program to commence grants have been obtained to upgrade the bar and kitchen areas. Greg reported a hugely successful AFL Worksafe game with attendances at luncheon of 200 people and that the Girgarre Football Netball Clubs had had a very successful year with the under 15b netballers premiership and the reserves footballers making it to the Grand Final. Next Girgarre Development Meeting - 29 January 2019
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December 2018/January2019
10 –13 January 2019 YOUR LOCAL FESTIVAL BIGGER AND BETTER THAN EVER January’s Muster is promising to be bigger and better than ever, now officially a 4 day event due to more and more enthusiastic campers arriving early to secure a camp spot. There are a few surprises planned for the next Muster and heaps of variety, including some new exciting tutors for those of you interested in a workshop, some old friends returning too. And the program, well it includes two fabulous evening concerts; Friday in both halls and Saturday over in the Soundshell, both with high quality artists. Free to the public. Overall there’s 40+ workshops for a huge range of instruments plus some interesting opportunities for those of you with a few more skills, to learn a few tricks. Festivities start with the a dinner at Ky West Pub on Wednesday 9 January before the Muster action truly gets going. There’s a nice meal followed by a walk up for the musicians. Some pretty cool acts get there and everyone has a lot of fun, come along and listen. You do have to book, it’s popular with the festival go-ers and the locals alike. Mine Host, Wayne will be very happy to see you (Phone Ph: 5859 0277 to book your table, its their Pot and Parmy night). Thursday is Open Mic Day - all day! A great chance to hear a variety of visiting and local artists. Friday we have a special event called ‘Out Of A Hat’ Band. We put the names of artists taking part into the hat and draw out groups of 4 and give them some time to get a song together. They perform Friday afternoon from 12.30pm - 2.30. This is followed by a Jigarre Jammin’ session from 3pm - 4. An audience is always more than welcome for all of these.
Saturday is all of the workshops and more you read about on page 3. Sunday begins with a poetry session at 8.15am - 9.15; Old time Gospel singing at 9.30am – 10.30 followed by the song writers from Saturday’s song writing workshop performing the items they may have written. Don’t forget Sunday is also market day. The final Wind Down concert is on Sunday 13th evening. Team Work has been the catalyst for the success the Muster has become each year. All volunteers put many hours into the festival, beginning early in the year; maybe you’re someone who willingly lends a hand. It’s an exciting journey we’re on, a labour of love, the growth from a small country market to a fully blown festival over the past 12 years has been phenomenal. As always, there’s room for more volunteers if you’d like to be part of the team, especially early in the week when most of the setting up is done. (Contact Jan Smith if you would like to help Ph: 5854 6283). It’s not just the locals who make this festival so successful. The skilled workshop leaders who come from far and wide each year are also volunteers. They love it too and are more than pleased to be part of something so alive and dynamic. Words are not enough to express our appreciation to them and to the locals. Do make some time over the festival weekend to come and listen to a workshop or concert, every venue is air conditioned and comfortable. There are so many opportunities to be part of a fabulous weekend. It’s your festival too. Go to www.girgarre.com.au for the full program, coming soon.
‘Junkestra Rising’ - Reforming For The Muster The success of the ‘Spirit Rising’ Orchestra, commissioned from Graeme Leak for the Soundshell opening has inspired a group of the original Junkestra Orchestra players to gather and fan the coals into flames again, this time for the Moosic Muster in January. The brain wave came from Wallace Williams of tin violin fame. Wal thought it would be a shame to let the experience of 'Spirit Rising’ get too cold while we waited for Graeme Leak to come back from the UK. He floated the idea, along with a piece of music he liked past Muster concert organiser Jan Smith who embraced it with enthusiasm. “It is a brilliant idea,” Jan said recently “it will keep the Junkestra alive while we wait for the Federation Square performance in May”. The Junk instruments, including some newer ones
are out of hiding; tuned and the players are meeting in the hall weekly to fine tune the piece. Graeme, busily developing new and interesting performance pieces for here and other parts of the world from his hideaway studio in Scotland, was thrilled to think that interest in the Junkestra was alive and well. He has been more than encouraging and is arranging the piece of music suggested by Wallace for the Orchestra. Maureen Shepherd, a member of both the Rushworth and District Concert and Junkestra Band, has taken on the role as Concert Master in Graeme’s absence. The phone runs hot between Oz and UK as Graeme, Wallace and Maureen regularly discuss proceedings. The re-formed Orchestra will perform on Saturday 12 January in the Soundshell concert. www.graemeleak.com
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December 2018/January2019
GIRGARRE COMMUNITY COTTAGE SERVICES
WHAT IS THE GIRGARRE COMMUNITY COTTAGE? HOW CAN WE HELP YOU?
A COMMUNITY SPACE WHERE YOU CAN: Join classes and learn new things *Access library books, magazines and DVDs *Meet new people *Socialise and make friends *Hold meetings *Free use of computers, Wi-Fi and the internet *Get assistance with community & shire issues *Be safe and welcomed at all times *Access activities during school holidays *Book the Community Car *Assist others by volunteering *Fundraise for worthy causes *Training courses *Access printing, fax and photocopying services *Cook meals for seniors *Access Food packages
BOOK SWAP - Leave a book and take one. Free service PRESCRIPTION SERVICE - Leave your scripts and we will have them filled for you. SENIORS GROUP - Come and make new friends or catch up with old acquaintances.
HOW YOU CAN HELP OTHERS DONATE CLEAN DENIM - Ros makes it into quilts. Stains don’t matter. DONATE ITEMS FOR REDISTRIBUTION TO OTHERS IN NEED - Spectacles, mobile phones, routers, bras, all things for baby and nursing mothers, mastectomy items, cotton clothing suitable for Fijian climate. www.upliftbras.org VOLUNTEER - Teach a class, join the committee or help out at the nursery.
The Cottage is open from 10am until 3pm Monday to Thursday. For enquiries on any of the items in the Cottage pages, please contact us.
Our address is 27 Olympic St Girgarre. Cottage Coordinator, Kezia Talbot PH:5854 6482 or email girgarrenh@ bigpond.com If you would like to help out at the Cottage or offer to teach a class, or be on the Committee of Management, please drop in for more information. Your commitment can be short term/long term, whatever suits you! The Committee of Management Meetings are held on the 3rd Monday of the month, 7pm at the Cottage. The President of the Committee is Duncan Rodrick PH: 0406 564 199
FOR HIRE Specialty items available for hire at a charge of $5 per month and a fully refundable (upon return of the item) $30 deposit. Items available include: Shower Chair Walkers Porta Cot Childs Car Seat (birth to 4 years old) Walking Sticks Large Wheel Chair Baby Bath High Chair.
FOOD BANK Food parcels are available to those in need. Confidentiality ensured. Available Monday to Thursday, 10AM to 3PM. PH: The Cottage 5854 6482.
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December 2018/January2019
COMMUNITY NOTICES Girgarre Gazette Please note the next edition of the Girgarre Gazette will be February 2019. If you have items to be included, please forward them to E: girgarregazette@yahoo.com.au prior to 20 January 2019. Thank you. IreneL (Editor)
SCHOOL HOLIDAYS
WORDS ON WHEELS
WOW is now in recess until February 18th 2019 at 6pm in the Cottage Utility room. Everyone welcome to join in for more stimulating discussions on topical subjects. Contact: Carol Ohlin Ph: 5854 6371
Last day of school for 2018
Friday 21 December Students go back on Wednesday 30 January. Best wishes to all those grade sixers heading off to Secondary School next year.
www.kyabramkindergartens.com.au Girgarre Community Kindergarten Robyn Swan, Lead Educator PH: 5854 6368 Final session for 2018 Tuesday 18th Dec. 3 yr olds; Wednesday 19 Dec. Kinder resumes on 29 January 2019, (3 & 4 yrs old). CONTACT: KPMC on 0428 738 147.
FREE GIRGARRE PLAYGROUP Mondays 10am-12pm Playgroup commences second week of term, not open in school holidays. Held at the Kindergarten located beside the Primary School in School St. Girgarre All families welcome. Children 0-5years. Parents stay and play with their children, encouraging socialisation, engaging in creativity and having lots of fun. Many facets of learning are experienced and the building of self esteem. Please bring a piece of fruit or snack. Girgarre Playgroup Co-coordinator - Sharon Pell. Food relief packages and nursery supplies are available to families at Playgroup. CONTACT: Girgarre Community Cottage PH: 5854 6482.
GIRGARRE (CAMPASPE) REGIONAL LIBRARY DEPOT The library is free to join At Girgarre Community Cottage you can access books, DVDs, talking books and magazines. You can choose from thousands of titles ordered online at www.campaspe.vic.gov.au/library and delivered to the Cottage. We welcome everyone to attend the Library to borrow books and enjoy our resources. The more members we have the more resources we are able to obtain, so why not become a member today! If you would like a book not on our shelves Wendy (our Shire Librarian) will bring a copy to the Cottage. Please note - If you have borrowed in Girgarre and ARE RETURNING ITEMS TO Echuca, Kyabram, Rochester, Rushworth or Tongala, be advised you will need to use the After Hours Chute to avoid the gates alarming as these branches have a new high tech system. If you are unable to attend The Cottage, we are able to deliver your books to you. Please phone the Girgarre Community Cottage on 5854 6482
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December 2018/January2019
KYABRAM TOWN HALL GALLERY in DECEMBER OPEN Mon –Sat 10am-4pm group booking 5852 1546 WONDERING WHEN” in the “Isobel Harvie Gallery” Meander through the ages at the “Kyabram Emporium”
Art Quilt exhibitions
Girgarre Farmers’ Produce Market A Slice of True Country Life
SECOND SUNDAY OF MONTH
GLORIA LOUGHMAN ends 30 November
January to December
BENEATH THE SUFACE Open 6th Nov
Splinter
Contemporary Artists
Stall Bookings:
Going with the Flow Judith Roberts Ends Dec 1
Jan (Produce): 5854 6283 Carol (Craft): 5854 6371
Like us on Facebook:@girgarrefarmersmarket
Followed by Lynne Hume’s “Reigning Cats & Dogs” Dec 4th to 1st Feb 2019 SANTAS CAVE is here again Dec. 13th until Dec 20th 11am -5pm
STANHOPE & DISTRICT MEN’S SHED OPEN Mon, Wed and Fri, 9:00am to 12 Noon 3 Tivey Grove Membership $35 PA Tea & coffee, chat, computers, wood and metal lathes
Dec. 21st 11am -8pm
HALL FOR HIRE Contact: Sandy Fletcher at the Girgarre Post Office Ph: 5854 6200. Other enquiries: Sandra McDonald Ph: 5854 6324 • Hall $80 Supper Room $40
Contact Des on 0457 300 321 EVERYONE WELCOME • Hall and Supper Room $110 • Supper Room with all facilities
• Bond $50 .Bond for a function
with alcohol $200 • Shire Insurance $25.
$60 • Hall and Supper Room with all
facilities $150 • Meetings $15
SHEPPARTON WORKWEAR & SAFETY 189 – 197 High Street SHEPPARTON VIC 3630 FOR ALL YOUR WORKWEAR CORPORATE WEAR AND EMBROIDERY
Ph.: 5831 4838 Fax: 5831
1696
Email: sales@sheppartonworkwear.com.au Website: www.sheppartonworkwear.com.au
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December 2018/January2019
CLASSIFIEDS & SERVICES Mechanical Repairs and Servicing General Engineering Licensed VicRoads Tester # 11233 LV HV LP
GIRGARRE POST OFFICE OPENING HOURS: 9.00AM - 5.00PM MON– FRI 9.00AM - 11.00AM SAT Use our new electronic terminal for all your Bill Pay and banking needs. Cash out facility available. Newspapers, milk and some grocery lines. We would love to see you so support us and keep your money local.
ALL GREETING CARDS $1 Stockist of the Girgarre History Book $30 Tongala bread available Mon, Wed & Fri Phone:
5854 6200
STANHOPE PUB Bar/Bistro/Pizzeria & Bottle Shop Accommodation & Function Room Courtesy bus for a gold coin donation Open Sun - Thu from 2pm Fri - Sat 12 Noon Dinner available Tue - Sun 6pm - 8:30pm T: 03 5857 2293
PAT’S CAR REMOVAL Email:
LAWN SERVICES
Great Prices Reliable Service Lawn mowing (ride on & push mower) Whipper snipping Leaf blowing Light tree & hedge trimming Chainsaw work
patsmobilemat@hotmail.com
0438 076 727
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December 2018/January2019
CLASSIFIEDS & SERVICES
3 Wallace St, Girgarre Ph: 5854 6517M: 0417 324 314 beth.warraweepark@bigpond.com
www.warraweeparkbirmans.com
Russell Wheelhouse Livestock Transport Girgarre For all of your livestock transport needs Mobile: 0430 432 687 Ph: 5854 6370
Brad Canny Electrical Domestic, Commercial & Industrial. REC 26754 Brad Canny Electrical is a new sparky around town serving all areas of the Goulburn Valley for all your electrical needs. Born and bred locally, why not give Brad a call when you are in need of an electrician.
BEAU JANGLES DOG GROOMING PHONE GLENNIS: 5857 2915 Hydro Bath ~ Nail Trimming Grooming ~ Clipping 54 Brudenell St, Stanhope
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December 2018/January2019
WHO WE ARE THE FOUR PILLARS OF GIRGARRE The Girgarre Development Group Celebrating the Achievements of our town. Building a Sustainable and Vibrant Community.
Education The Girgarre Primary School Preparing a Path to the Future
The Girgarre Community Kindergarten We aim to achieve an environment where everyone belongs, feels welcomed, valued and respected, while providing learning opportunities for children through exploration and play.
Sport
The Community Cottage
The Girgarre Recreation Reserve
The Community Centre exists to help, support and encourage people of this rural area to enrich their lives by developing friendships and new learning skills.
The Girgarre Football Netball Club The Girgarre Tennis Club
Our active and vibrant community, working together CONTACT THE COTTAGE Girgarre Community Group Inc. (The Cottage) A1601 ABN: 66 944 230 131. 27 Olympic St. (P.O. Box 35), Girgarre, 3624 Phone: (03) 5854 6482 Fax: (03) 5854 6484 http://girgarre.com.au/girgarre-community-cottage E-mail: girgarrenh@bigpond.com Coordinator: Kezia Talbot Connect with us on Facebook. Girgarre Community Cottage www.girgarre.com.au
ADVERTISE WITH US The Girgarre Gazette is delivered to over 400 people, is published on Issuu and is distributed via the Girgarre Post Office, Rob Varcoe’s shop 228 Allan St Kyabram, Nanneella Store, Rushworth, Corop, Stanhope and electronically via email and on the Girgarre Website wwwgirgarre.com.au The Gazette is produced for the benefit of the community by the Girgarre Community Group Inc. (The Cottage).
The Girgarre Gazette
Join our email list! Drop us a line and we will add you to our distribution list.
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EMAIL: girgarregazette@yahoo.com.au
Deadline for publication is the 20th of the month
Email: girgarregazette@yahoo.com.au Proudly sponsored by
Advertising Advertising space is available. Contact the Cottage or the Gazette for details. Gazette is designed by HiViz Event Management. & Promotions. www.hivizevents.com.au
The items published and the views expressed are those of the contributors, and not necessarily those of the Editor or the publisher of the Gazette
Girgarre Gazette Editor: Irene Labbett. Ph: 5852 1995 M: 0429 149 246 girgarregazette@yahoo.com.au
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December 2018/January2019
REGULAR MEETINGS & EVENTS
Tongala & District Memorial Aged Care Service Inc. Serving the Community since 1925 • R.M McHale Hostel, Koraleigh Nursing
Home for planned & emergency respite care & permanent residential aged care • Deakin Village – retirement rental units • Memorial Drive Retirement Village
For further information contact: Sarah Tee, 18 Purdey St, Tongala Vic. 3621 Phone: 03 5859 800 Email: admin@tongalaagedcare.com.au
“Care in a Friendly Town”
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December 2018/January2019
LOCAL GROUPS Group Name Girgarre Community Cottage
Details
Contact Name
Phone Number
Committee President
Duncan Rodrick
Coordinator
Kezia Talbot
5854 6482
Girgarre Community Car
Community Transport
Cottage Staff
5854 6482
Girgarre Seniors
Seniors Activities and Events
Debra Stelzer
5854 6482
Girgarre Open Garden Committee
Open Garden Festival
Loraine Warde
Girgarre Green Thumbs Nursery
Nursery Sales
Carol and Loraine
Girgarre Playgroup
0-5 yrs. Mondays 10am-12
Sharon Pell
Jigarre Ukulele (J-Ukes) Girgarre Patchwork Quilters
1st & 3rd Wed (& 5th) 1:30pm
Lyn Cosham
Quilters and Sewing Group
Nola Marke
Line Dancing Thursdays 7pm, Girgarre Hall. From April - August
Gloria Atkins Theo George Rob Varcoe
0400 539 778 0428 740 976 0409 975 997
Girgarre Community Kindergarten
Lead Educator
Robyn Swan
5854 6368
Girgarre Primary School
Principal
Peter Caldow
5854 6275
Girgarre Returned Services League
President
Laurie Young
5854 6303
Girgarre CFA
Captain
Maree Gadzinski
5854 6264
Stanhope/Girgarre Lions Club
President
Avis Weller
5854 6383
Girgarre Christian Church
Christian Church
Ron Gregory
5854 6382
Stanhope and District Men’s Shed
Have fun and create
Des Crichton
0457 300 321
Girgarre Memorial Hall Committee
Memorial Hall
Sandra McDonald
5854 6324
Girgarre Development Group (GDG)
Girgarre Improvements
Jan Smith
5854 6283
Gargarro Project
Gargarro Botanic Gardens
Athol McDonald
5854 6324
Friends of the Garden
Chairperson Bookings/Enquiries
Bernie Ryan Carol Ohlin
5857 2407 5854 6371
Bookings / Enquiries Acoustic Music
Jan Smith Irene Labbett
Girgarre Living History girgarrehistory@gmail.com
Book titled “Girgarre” Recording History
Athol McDonald Jenny Wadelton
Girgarre Recreational Reserve
President
Darren Butler
0427 546 332
Girgarre Football /Netball Club
President
Brendon Nicholson
0413 022 398
Girgarre Cricket Club
President
Mick Coyne
0488 296 566
Girgarre Tennis Club
President Secretary
Duncan Rodrick Fiona Smith
0406 564 199 0408 502 274
Girgarre Line Dancers Carpet Bowls
Girgarre Craft Market Girgarre Farmers Market Jigarre Jammers
0406 564 199
5854 6236/0438 546 237 Carol 5854 6371 5854 6482 5859 0297 5854 8226
5854 6283 0429 149 246 5854 6324 5852 2301
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December 2018/January2019
TWO INSEPARABLE LIVES: JOHN WILLIAM WEST & MARGARET ELIZABETH (LAWRIE) WEST John West was born in Elmore on the 22nd March 1928 and Margaret West in North Fitzroy on the 5th June 1928. Both to farm labourer fathers who had served in WW1 and WW2. Over the years, John and his five siblings attended many different schools in the area until John gained a Merit Certificate (year 8) in 1941 and left to go to work at Parson’s Grocery Store in Colbinabbin. Margaret was also the eldest of five and her family moved to Rushworth where she attended the Primary and later, the High School gaining an Intermediate Certificate (year 10) before she took up a typist/switchboard operator position with Brown’s Dry Cleaning in Melbourne before moving back to Rushworth. Local country dances were an important part of country social life in those early years, the place where locals gathered to relax and meet socially, this is where John and Margaret met and the courtship began when John walked Margaret home from a Rushworth dance. A change of job to another grocery store in Newport caused a temporary interruption until Margaret moved to Melbourne soon after, taking up a secretarial position with Country Woolbrokers. They courted for 18 months and married in Rushworth on the 8th September 1951, settling in Upper Yarra Dam where John worked for the Board of Works. When that job finished the family moved back to Northern Victoria and John worked at various jobs including Vaughan’s Grocery store in Girgarre. As the family grew to six children, (Lawrie, Michael, Cherryl, Stewart, Merredith & Grantley) he supplemented his wages with relief milking and hay carting. In 1966 the family leased, then purchased the Girgarre Milk Bar. A large family of young children and a seven days a week shop limited opportunities for John and Margaret to take holidays until such time as some of the older children were able to stand in and take care of the business. Once they retired though, they would hook up the caravan and drive to all parts of Victoria and eventually around Australia, visiting family and friends in Brisbane and as far north as Rockhampton. On leaving the Girgarre Milk Bar in 1977 they eventually relocated a home to a 22 acre property in Cornelia Creek. John gained a position with Nestle farm sup-
plies where he worked until his retirement in 1993. Not one to stand still, this was only semi-retirement as it gave him more time to devote to his cows, chooks, fruit trees and garden. Margaret making good use of the produce, freezing surplus and producing great meals for the family and anyone who happened to drop in. Both Margaret and John had a high work ethic and were generous, community minded people committed to many local organisations. Often in committee roles, Scouts & Guides; Kindergarten & Primary School; Methodist Ladies Guild; Op Shop; Uniting Church and Sunday School; the RSL, Carpet Bowls; Hall Committee; Community Cottage, Salvation Army and the Red Cross Door Knock Appeals all benefited from their time and generosity. The Church, especially the Girgarre Christian Church was very important to them both. John made a commitment in the 1980s. It helped him focus on the way he and Margaret wanted to live their lives in a more direct way. No one was surprised when the Girgarre’s Citizen of the Year, Australia Day award for 2000 went to John, an honour many said was equally owed to Margaret. In the year 2000 they retired to a home in Stanhope and continued their community work and travelling. As failing health caught up with them in their 80’s, they eventually settled into a double room in Waranga Aged Care Rushworth where they were afforded excellent care. John, celebrated his 90th birthday last March and Margaret in June, on both occasions over 50 family members gathered to celebrate with them. Just a fortnight before their passing, the family gathered again to celebrate their 67th year of marriage. John died surrounded by family on the morning of September 24th this year, and Margaret just 26 hours later. They are survived by 5 children, 18 grandchildren, 24 great grandchildren, and a great great granddaughter. The West family are extremely appreciative of the love, care and support that has been shown to John and Margaret and the West family by both Waranga Aged Care and by the wider community over the last few months. Editors Note: When the time capsule buried in 1993 was opened at the recent Centenary of the school celebrations, (see page 4) letters to West family members were found to be in it.
Kyabram Discussion Group Social Night - Due to the challenging season being experienced at present the Kyabram Discussion Group opened their Christmas breakup to the wider farming community. Held at the Girgarre Recreation Reserve on Wednesday 28 of November, 140 people from as far as Kialla and Echuca enjoyed the meal. The band ‘True Country’ provided entertainment which was enjoyed by young and old. The discussion group would like to thank the sponsors, Fonterra, Murray Dairy, ACM and Tatura Milk for their assistance and support. We also thank The Friends of Gargarro, Girgarre Fire Brigade and the Girgarre Cricket Club for helping with the catering. Everyone considered the night a great success.
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THANK YOU Open Gardens To everyone who was involved in our Open Gardens Festival, especially the gardeners: Darren & Sharon Butler, Judy Selwood, Rob & Lyn Axen , Des Crichton at ‘St Ronan’, and Bernie Ryan ‘Bonshaw’. Also, the people who manned the gates, sold raffle tickets, helped out in the kitchen, at The Cottage and nursery, and baked. Not one of you wonderful people said no when asked to help. We also thank our sponsors. The Shire of Campaspe, Rushworth and District Community Bank, Rochester Nursery, Robyn Fairman, Young’s Fire Services and The Stanhope and District Men’s Shed. And finally, all of you who came and supported us by enjoying our beautiful gardens. We raised $6000 that will be shared between our community car and the Friends of Gargarro Gardens. Open Gardens Committee
Introducing Our New Logo The Gargarro Gardens Committee are delighted with the new logo (left) designed by Nerida Hippisley of Flying Pig Designs, Tatura. The gum leaf is indicative of the native Australian plants that will eventually be found in Gargarro, as are the soft, natural colours chosen. The shape of the leaf is also representative of the shape of the Soundshell, the iconic feature of the garden thus far.
Girgarre Development group AGM Jan Smith returned as President of the GDG at the annual meeting on 27 November 2019. Jenny Bassett returned as Secretary/Treasurer and Greg Fitzpatrick as Vice President. The group meets on the last Tuesday of every month except December. All welcome.
Jenny Wadelton I wish to thank all those people who contributed towards the voucher which was presented to me at the Girgarre Primary School’s Centenary celebrations. Many people assisted to make the celebrations the success they were, but I am most grateful to you all for thinking of me. It was very much appreciated. Jenny
NOW AVAILABLE - CENTENARY PENS The souvenir centenary pens, which did not arrive in time for the celebrations, are now available for purchase for $4 each at the school.
The construction of the Soundshell and Amphitheatre has occupied our attention for the past two years. Now that this phase of construction is complete we are moving on to finalising the detailed design of Stage 2 of Gargarro. A very productive meeting was held with Lisa Howard from TCL, (Taylor, Cullity, Lethlean, our world renowned landscape architects) in Melbourne a couple of weeks ago and we are now focused on the task of finding the funds to complete the design. Doc McDonald
FRIENDS OF THE GARDEN - HELP US GROW! Would you like to keep up to date with the Gargarro Gardens Project by joining the Friends? Membership is $20 per annum or $100 for 7 years. You will receive their newsletters and can become one of the many ‘Volunteers With Vision’ who have turned a bare paddock into the beginnings of a beautiful Botanic Garden. Contact: President, Bernie Ryan PH: 5857 2407 or Secretary, Marlene Rodrick PH: 0437 123 425 for more details.
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December 2018/January2019
THE RACE THAT STOPS A NATION! SENIORS DRESS TO IMPRESS! The Seniors seldom stay at home, just occasionally when they’re not off to Merry Melodies in Shepparton, (seems they can’t get enough of Elvis songs with Anthony Tenace, a regular performer at the Shepparton RSL), or touring another of the region’s fine wineries. They do get around. Come Melbourne Cup day though, they were home in Girgarre. Gee whizz our volunteers here at the Community Cottage are outstanding! Even though the cottage was closed Debra and Wendy went above and
beyond organising a lunch, a cup sweep and an impromptu session of live entertainment, thanks Dale you continue to impress with those Slim Dusty songs. The glad rags were donned and didn’t they scrub up well. Our top three fashion of the day winners were; Joy, Hetty and Dale. Congratulations. The Warde’s did well in the sweep coming in first and third, rigged I tell you! A wonderful day was had by all and once again thank you to Debra and Wendy. Kezia
Left; Debra and Wendy cook up a luncheon fit for a Cup Day King. Below right: Dale Donehue. Below Left: the red hats have it. Right: Style plus.. .Mal Biggs - borrowed finery?
OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK LUNCH AND DINNER MONDAY – FRIDAY $10.00 LUNCHES AVAILABLE
82 ALLAN STREET KYABRAM Ph: 5852 2431 www.kyabramclub.com.au office@kyabramclub.com.au
QUALITY BISTRO DINING, SUN SHADED PLAYGROUND, FOXTEL, LIVE ENTERTAINMENT, OFF STREET PARKING, SPORTS BAR, LANDSCAPED COURTYARD WITH BARBEQUE FACILITIES, CONFERENCE ROOMS, TAB, KENO AND EFTPOS FACILITIES.
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December 2018/January2019
BIG DREAMS - BIG SCHEMES - BIG PAYOFF GIRGARRE ON THE WORLD WIDE WEB Girgarre is a township evolving with gusto thanks to the dreams, ideas, passion and pride of the community. Every month the numerous events and activities on offer are presented in this Gazette publication. From Markets to Moosic Muster, Footy to Fine Dining, Community Car to Camping…the list is seemingly endless. Each of these events and activities are run by volunteers who serve on various committees. The Girgarre Development Group is at the heart of our small town. They applied and were successful in the Small Towns Transformation Grant for the Girgarre Revival: The Sound of our Spirit Rising Project that was funded by Regional Arts Victoria. Part of this $350,000 injection of support to our rural community has been to create a central location for all that our town has to offer. With the consultation of the various groups in Girgarre, a website was developed that went live in May 2018 and since then has had 200-500 people visit the sight per month. Find the website at www.girgarre.com.au. if you search for Girgarre on the internet, our website is the first thing you will see!
tion exceeds expectation as it is so visually appealing. A big thank you to all those involved, in particular; Jan Smith who lead the Development Group in gaining funding; Melissa Crow from Youlissys Design Mansfield (originally from Kyabram) who was paid a nominal fee for her work but an exorbitant amount of pro bono hours were gifted; Lisa Smith who liaised closely with Melissa to form the backbone of the website; and all those that provided information, pictures, proofing and feedback to get it to its current state. Girgarre’s websites will evolve with time and is a living, breathing testament to our rural community. We rely on people letting us know of important information, especially of upcoming events, ideas for new pages and welcome constructive feedback on changes to better enhance our website. There are three administrators monitoring and progressively making improvements to their designated sections. If you think you could help to benefit our website please contact, Sally Canny (0419 481 825), Lyn Cosham (0417 931 417) or Lisa Smith (0409 945 169).
On the website you will find separate pages for many of our organisations and groups, calendar of events, contact lists, past and present Gazette publications, camping information and so much more. It is very user friendly to navigate to the information you require and according to feedback already received the presenta-
Piano Piano The prototype piano musical fence installed along the Recreation Reserve and School boundary fence in 2016 was an innovative and interesting adjunct to the Girgarre Small Town Revival program. It attracted a lot of interest at the launch, with the school children playing their junk instruments brilliantly and Graeme Leak and Wallace’s musical demonstration of the Piano fence. Now weathered and a bit sad, the musical fence will eventually be removed but certainly not forgotten as it has already become the catalyst for a next generation, improved version. Currently a work in progress in the workshop of Wallace Williams, Piano Piano Mark two began when the Committee asked Wallace to have a weather proofed piano ready to be installed by the time Graeme returns in the new year.
They knew Wallace had enthusiastically embraced the idea of instruments re purposed from discarded items for the Junkestra last year; starting with the tin violin of ’Spirit Rising’ fame and going on to make many and varied instruments with Graeme in the old supermarket workshop in Girgarre. What they didn’t know is that Wallace has a history of hand crafting instruments from discarded items, mostly created for the musical revelries of his salad days with the Victorian Young Farmers, but also a keen interest in blacksmithing, oil painting and clay sculpting. Faced with the piano Wallace’s thoughts immediately took another creative turn; he contacted Graeme in the UK who endorsed Wallace’s ideas and there has developed an entirely new version of ‘Piano Piano’ alongside the original. Suffice to say the finished project is being kept under wraps until it’s official launch next year, but it will be more than just a musical fence. The piano is now modified in a way the original inventors of the modern Pianoforte would never have imagined. ‘Piano Piano’ will be ready to install when Graeme arrives back in Australia in mid April 2019.
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December 2018/January2019
PEACE! ARMISTICE DAY- REMEMBERING 1914 - 1918. The Girgarre RSL Sub-branch conducted a moving ceremony for the 2018 Remembrance Day service with this year being the centenary of Armistice Day when at 11am on 11th November 1918 declarations of peace were signed following 4 years of a horrific war of death and destruction. The ceremony included a horse drawn WW1 ambulance being led by a trooper in his Light Horse Uniform, accompanied by a uniformed WW1 nurse and Primary School captains, Hayley Hancock and Jasmine Wesley in period uniform. Special effects included battle sounds of exploding shells and gunfire prior to the minutes silence at 11am. Town Crier for the Shire of Campaspe, Judy Campbell began proceedings followed by a reading of the poem,
Hear Ye!
‘Flanders Fields’, read by Robin Hunt. A response to the poem was then read by Hayley and Jasmine. Immediately following the Girgarre RSL Remembrance Day Service, Councillor John Zobec along with Rushworth and District Community Bank's Chairperson Christine Borger, unveiled a commemorative panel in the Girgarre RSL grounds (pictured below). The ANZAC Centenary Grants Program provided an opportunity to commemorate the service and sacrifice of the WW1 veterans and their communities. Funded by a grant administered by the Department of Premier and Cabinet on behalf of the Victorian Veterans Council and the Victorian Government, the Girgarre RSL were successful in their application and provided a display that will be a reminder to the community of the sacrifices that their service men and women undertook in safe guarding our freedom. John Crilly
Trooper, Noel Wiltshire and his horse lead a WW1 Field Ambulance. WW1 Nurse, Moira Hammond accompanied by School Captains Hayley Hancock and Jasmine Wesley.
Jasmine Wesley & Hayley Hancock.
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December 2018/January2019
HOT SHOTS - GIRGARRE’S TENNIS STARS OF THE FUTURE
Girgarre Tennis Club's 'Hotshots' wrapped up on the 22nd of November after seven fun weeks of learning basic tennis skills. The kids had an absolute ball, much of which was due to Coach Fiona's enthusiasm, great planning and water fights on the hot days.
Stanhope Girgarre Rushworth (SGR) Following a very successful AGM and the installation of a new 22 strong committee, the SGR Giants wish to confirm that they intend to continue in season 2019. The club will continue to provide opportunities for all interested players to don the SGR colours in U10, U12 and U14 competitions next year. New Club President, Andrew Hipwell, is delighted with the growth of the committee and the strong pledge of support from the local football clubs in the region. “Our club is looking forward to the 2019 season with a high level of optimism and enthusiasm. We have had meetings with all of our aligned senior clubs and, without exception, they have all indicated a desire to provide a high level of support to the SGR giants moving forwards,” Hipwell said. Planning is now underway to prepare for the new season and the club would like to welcome all current
players and their families, along with any potential new players, to consider registering with the club at their earliest convenience. “We are a small club, with a strong community focus. Our club is really committed to providing opportunities for young people from within our broader community to play football and we see the SGR Giants as an ideal platform to enable this to happen.” The SGR Giants will operate under an updated constitution in 2019. “As a club, we are extremely grateful to AFL Goulburn Murray for their outstanding support in helping us develop a constitution that is more appropriate to the contemporary needs of our club.” The SGR Giants hope to retain all eligible players from this season as well as attract new players and their families to the club. Should any prospective players or their parents require any further information, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. - Andrew Hipwell Ph: 0428 180 700.
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December 2018/January2019