Betty & Don magazine 2024

BETTY &

Behind fairway security

Overcoming the odds

FARMER WANTS A WIFE STARS

TESS BROOKMAN & HARRY LLOYD

DARRYL REID

JARVIS ATKINSON

The MINI Countryman Has Arrived.

Guess what just landed at our doorstep! That’s right, the spacious and adventurous MINI Countryman has arrived at our dealership, in stock and ready to party!

This fun-sized SUV is ready to add some serious excitement to your daily drives.

Head on over to Shepparton MINI Garage and take your time browsing our selection. Come say hiwe’d love to show you around and help you find the perfect Countryman for your lifestyle.

With plenty in stock, you can take your time test driving and customizing your dream MINI. Trust us, it’ll be worth the visit. This versatile crossover is calling your name!

So, what are you waiting for? It’s time to let the good times roll. Swing by, take a look, and get ready to fall in love. The Countryman of your dreams is here and ready to hit the road!

WELcoME

Welcome to the very first edition of Betty & Don

We’re thrilled to unite these two magazines that have long celebrated the vibrant lives of women and men.

As we mark the beginning of this exciting journey we blend our strengths into one dynamic publication.

This merger creates a lively space where diverse voices, styles, and perspectives now come together, and our mission remains clear.

To honour individuality and deliver enriching content that resonates with every reader.

From fashion and lifestyle to culture and wellness, you’ll find fresh ideas and compelling stories that reflect our shared experiences.

And in this very first edition with over 100 pages packed with content, there’s so much to explore.

Inside, you’ll encounter heartfelt stories like Jarvis Atkinson’s inspiring journey of transformation after overcoming addic-

tion and Kellie Salter’s courageous fight against breast cancer.

We also engage with theatre icon Dale Jenke, life coach Michael Reid, and talented artists like Mark Niglia, who crafted a sculpture for royalty, and Christine Broerson, whose art is set to reach the moon.

Our cover features the captivating love story of Kyabram farmer Harry Lloyd and Melbourne native Tess Brookman, who found romance on Farmer Wants a Wife and have charted a beautiful path together since.

Plus, don’t miss our stunning spring fashion photoshoot, along with the latest must-see movies, podcasts, and music recommendations.

Everything you need for inspiration is right here, just waiting for you.

Thank you for joining us on this new adventure — let’s embrace this chapter together.

Enjoy, and until next time, warm wishes from the Betty & Don team.

BETTY & DON MAGAZINE

BEAUTIFUL JEWELLERY

COVER

Our front cover features Tess Brookman and Harry Lloyd who appeared on Farmer Wants a Wife in 2022.

Discover their journey of love from farm to forever.

EDITOR

Kylie Garrett, 5820 3160

ADVERTISING

Simone Dunne 5820 3134

Mel Wright 5820 3184

Leah Doyle 5820 3159

Alan Kellock 5820 3167

Craig Comline 5820 3191

WRITERS

Kelly Carmody

Georgia Tacey

Djembe Archibald

DESIGN

Alysha Bathman

PHOTOGRAPHY

Megan Fisher

Rechelle Zammit

Kelly Carmody

PUBLISHED BY

Shepparton News, PO Box 204, Shepparton VIC 3632 (03) 5831 2312

You dream

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Don’t wait, take action

IN MICK KYLE’S OWN WORDS, THIS IS HIS CANCER STORY AND HIS CALL TO ACTION ON PROSTATE CANCER.

Basically, my first signs of having prostate issues came from a simple blood test.

I found myself to be a normal fit, active male in my 50s with no underlying issues, but I always wanted to know how I was tracking.

I had a check-up with my doctor and had all bloods done just to see how my 53-year-old body was holding up. The blood results returned excellent levels on all areas other than my PSA (Prostate Specific Antigen) which had a low-level measure.

The doctor said that PSA levels could indicate prostate issues, but not definitive and require other tests.

Furthermore, I never had any of the early signs or symptoms asked by my doctor ... Do I have any difficulty in taking a piss? Do I piss often? Do I still get a horn?

I considered all my functions were normal and never had any issues.

At this point, I never had any worry or concern, but was interested in knowing what was going on and what the hell was next.

Next was a stint of all the other sh*t that I didn’t enjoy, but the testing was required to confirm I had a positive prostate cancer.

I considered myself to be lucky not to have a high aggressive cancer at the time and to have it detected early.

For the next five years or so it was just a blood test every three to six months to check my levels, along with the numerous MRI, biopsies, CT and PET scans.

I knew at some stage something was going to happen and was hoping it would just disappear.

Considering my age and the PSA count being higher than usual, I decided it was time to have surgery and get rid of my slow burn cancer.

My doctors and nurses, in particular Nicole Lade and Sonia Strachan from GV Health were wonderful, and explained every detail regarding the process of robotic surgery to removing the prostate and hopefully getting rid of the cancer.

Lucky for me, it was a success so far, and although it was a tough period, I’m very grateful to have had it removed and lucky to have a supporting loving wife, two ripper boys and close family to get me through this tough time.

In my most uncomfortable sh*t time of recovery there were some beautiful moments with my grandkids giving me extra hugs and comfort to their poor pop that I’ll never forget.

Diagnosed with cancer is a lot to take in and can be an emotional ride at times.

I guess I’m your usual tuff bloke that might not always express any emotions and keep the positive face on around those I care about just to have them not worry. However, for me, coping with my emotions was easy around

my support network of a loving family and close friends.

I was never afraid to talk about it and looked at it as another chapter in life.

I have been fortunate to be able to get on top of my cancer and it’s made me more aware of so many others that need to deal with cancer issues every day of their life, like my brother, who I consider to be one of the strongest men on earth, having a blood cancer for 24 years now and been through so much.

I guess, once diagnosed, trust your doctors and prostate nurses … they are awesome.

Also, try to keep fit and active with also a good balance of work, rest and play.

I would also seek information to understand your treatment options.

My motivation to spread awareness came from my first Biggest Bloke’s Lunch that I attended in 2022.

Lots of piss talk and fun catching up with so many blokes is one thing, but it was awesome to see so many local blokes under the same roof listening to stories about the same thing.

I think it’s a great tool to help other men avoid a late diagnosis.

I’m also motivated that all men and the next generation are educated about prostate cancer. It’s also very important for my own two boys and my three grandsons to be involved.

Some misconceptions of prostate cancer, I guess, are firstly it’s an old man’s disease, it’s not that serious and it’s slow growing, and it’s about losing your manhood … being castrated … having a piss bag.

Get over yourself and get screened, as early detection can save your life, it’s a simple blood test.

The experience has been an eye-opener, and today I have a greater appreciation for those dealing with any health issues.

I find I have more focus on being around for as long as I can and look at spending as much quality time with my family and close friends as possible.

Now, at the age of 59, I work at Foott Waste, who are dedicated to also supporting awareness to the cause, which is great.

I refuse to sit still, I’ll stay happy and I’ll keep challenging myself with life. After all the bullsh*t I’ve dealt with ... I’m still a bloke living life.

My message to all men regarding prostate cancer ... Don’t think you are too young or too old, too fit and healthy, too busy or just don’t have any symptoms.

Just go and tick the box and get tested, we all need to encourage other men to take their health seriously to get regular check-ups and not to ignore potential symptoms.

Cheers, Mick

couple challenge accepted

LOOKING FOR FUN AND ENGAGING WAYS TO STRENGTHEN YOUR BOND? TRY THESE EXCITING COUPLE CHALLENGES THAT WILL INSPIRE CREATIVITY, TEAMWORK AND LASTING MEMORIES.

Cook-off challenge: Each partner prepares a dish using the same ingredients, and they judge each other’s creation. Bonus points for creativity and presentation.

DIY home project: Pick a small home improvement or DIY project to tackle together. It could be anything from building a shelf to repainting a room. The goal is teamwork.

Fitness challenge: Set a weekly or monthly fitness goal that you both work toward. It could be a certain number of steps, workouts or even mastering a new exercise together.

Date night swap: Take turns planning surprise date nights for each other, with a fun twist — stick to a theme like “80s Night” or “Around the World.”

Memory lane challenge: Create a scrapbook or digital photo album together, reminiscing about past trips, dates and special moments. Add captions or funny notes to each memory.

Try a new hobby: Each partner picks a hobby they’ve never tried before, and you both learn it together. It could be pottery, painting or even dancing.

Blind taste test: Prepare a selection of foods or drinks for a blind taste test. See who can correctly identify the most items, with a prize for the winner.

Budget date challenge: Plan a fun date while sticking to a strict budget, like $20 or less. The challenge is to be as creative as possible without spending much.

Travel bucket list: Sit down together and create a couple’s travel bucket list. Choose one destination to plan a future trip to, researching and dreaming together.

Compliment jar challenge: Start a “Compliment Jar” where you each write down compliments or things you love about the other person. The challenge is to fill it up by the end of the month.

Behind fairway

DARRYL REID’S JOURNEY FROM GREG NORMAN’S PROTECTOR TO LIV GOLF’S SECURITY LEADER.

From guarding golf legends to navigating the challenges of high-stakes tournaments, Darryl Reid offers a unique glimpse into the world of elite security.

Journalist KELLY CARMODY caught up with him to find out about his most memorable moments, the lighter side of working with icons like Greg Norman, and his role in golf and event security for LIV Golf.

What was it like working closely with a golfing legend like Greg Norman? Any standout moments or interesting stories from your time as his security?

I am extremely grateful to have had the opportunity to work with Greg Norman. It was a chance meeting in 1994 at Royal Sydney Golf Club that turned into a long-term friendship and gave me the opportunity to create a career within the golf industry.

At the beginning I was unaware of his immense popularity both here and abroad, however, I quickly learnt that there were certain areas on a golf course and in the public arena where he just couldn’t go because he would be mobbed by autograph hunters and adoring fans.

Things like having a quiet birthday dinner with close friends at a Sydney restaurant quickly turned into a major incident, with police being called and photographers being

ing there.

What’s something you learned about him that most people wouldn’t know just by watching him on TV or during a tournament?

His work ethic on and off the course was enormous, Greg would arrive at the golf course two hours before his tee time, stretch, practice on the driving range, and then play a fivehour round before going to a media conference and then back to the driving range.

I can remember standing there some days until dark watching him hit balls and refining his game and thinking to myself why, until I realised that his own expectations were far greater than that of anybody else’s and that is why he was world number one for 331 weeks.

We all know Greg Norman is a phenomenal golfer, but did you ever get the chance to play a round with him? If so, how did you hold up against The Shark?

One thing I learnt very early with Greg is never give him the opportunity to get one up on you, and my game (which is very ordinary) was never to a standard to even come close.

There were several times I did play at social days when Greg was in attendance and let’s just say “His feedback wasn’t positive” or printable.

ejected because they were tipped off that Greg would be din-

Darryl Reid and Greg Norman on tour.

fairway security

Given the intense environment of professional golf tournaments, what are the key challenges in ensuring the safety and security of players, especially during high-profile events like those hosted by LIV Golf?

One of my key roles at LIV Golf events is to set up the golf course and the security requirements to dictate and manage how players circulate around the course and transverse from green to tee on each hole safely.

It is also important to have a golf course set up to accommodate the crowd capacity from ingress at the entry gates, ease of navigating the golf course to egress to car parks and public transport. The safety of both our players and fans is paramount to the successful staging of a LIV Golf tournament.

Spectators are required to go through a processing procedure on entry to inhibit the entry of banned items to create a safe environment for all.

We have a fully operational Event Control Centre onsite which is manned by all emergency services agencies and high-level event staff and security operatives.

Each playing group has designated security operatives walking with them and response groups on call if required. The planning of these events starts six months prior and can include 170 security staff and 60 police.

The LIV Golf tour has taken you to some incredible places this year. Which destinations stood out to you the most, and why?

Golf in general has given me and my family the opportunity to travel the world to some amazing destinations, while I have just spent 10 weeks in the UK working on LIV GOLF UK presented by JCB, it’s not until after the event you have some time to take in your surrounds and the English summer is not a favourite.

On our way home we spent a week in London exploring the culture and historic landmarks and a week in Abu Dahbi which we really enjoyed.

I think the most memorable trip was to the Bahamas where the people and the culture were amazing, immersing ourselves into the local culture and experiencing their way of life was very memorable not to mention the restaurants, beaches and crystal clear warm oceans.

While managing security, do you get a chance to explore the local culture or scenery? What’s been your favourite off-the-course experience during your travels?

1997 Presidents Cup in New York, I had the opportunity to attend a players’ welcome party event and listen to two US Presidents talk (Bill Clinton and George W Bush) on the 101st floor of the World Trade Center, amazing experience, and the banter between the two presidents was very funny and entertaining.

Riding a snowmobile at 11000ft in the Colorado mountains was an extreme adventure and something I will never forget. And the last trip to Abu Dhabi where we went sand dune driving and rode camels, there was something about the desert that struck me, it was so peaceful and calm, probably what I needed after 10 weeks in the UK.

How do you strike a balance between maintaining stringent security measures and ensuring a positive, welcoming experience for fans attending LIV Golf tournaments?

Finding the right security company to provide a festival-based security service that has the experience and manpower to service the event, remembering our demographic is 25-45, while other golf tournaments demographics are based on 55-65.

LIV Golf is purposely trying to reinvigorate the golf scene across the globe by introducing a younger audience to the game and adding at least one major concert act after play during the weekend.

My philosophy is to treat people the way you want to be treated, be polite but firm when required and be proactive not reactive.

We provide the security companies with a security plan and brief that they will be required to implement, we will support them through this process, so they deliver the LIV Golf event look and feel.

In your experience, what has been the most challenging thing you’ve had to manage during an event, and how did your team successfully navigate it?

A colleague and I went to Argentina with Leyton Hewitt and the Australian Davis Cup team to protect Leyton, Leyton was the most loathed athlete to visit Argentina due to his

ongoing rivalry with David Nalbandian, also playing in the Davis Cup tie for Argentina.

The Argentinian Government had constructed a purposely built outdoor stadium for the event in one of the poorest areas in Buenos Aires, which meant we had to have police escorts in and out each day as protestors from the local communities would block the roads in protest of the money spent on the venue.

When they opened the venue, they invited 1000 people from the local community to attend the opening and watch a friendly match between Leyton and David hosted by the mayor of Buenos Aires.

Against our advice, Leyton agreed to play, and we went to the court and found the stands full of public and people everywhere on the court.

We got Leyton to themayoral stand and watch as they tried to clear the people from the court and get control, but to not avail, and then I noticed that the local security guards had left their positions and people were pouring down the stairs onto the court and making their way towards our position.

We placed Leyton between us and headed for the player exit fending off people who were abusing Leyton and trying to block our exit.

Once we had Leyton out of the stadium and secure, it then became an international incident and conversations turned to whether the Australian team should continue.

After several meetings with officials from both sides, we came up with a plan to reconfigure the stadium to block access to the court by fans and bring in more police to manage the crowds.

While we got through the week, it was one of the most hostile crowds I have ever come across and Australia didn’t win a rubber and finished the week 0-5

What’s the most memorable or amusing thing you’ve witnessed while working security at a golf event? Any funny interactions with players or fans?

One thing that astounds me is that spectators want to dive into a lake or pond at a golf event, given that all the water runs off the course into them and the amount of chemicals they use to bring the courses up for tournament week must be sitting in that water.

At the Australia Open last year, a spectator dived into the

lake on 18 green three times after play to the delight of the crowd, and when he finely emerged, he was walked to the exit gate by security staff.

When asked had he drank the water he said, “yep had a couple of mouth fulls” when I mentioned the chemical content in the water he laughed it off, but I think it gave him something to think about while trying to get a cab home in his soaking wet clothes.

Do you ever get the chance to hit the links yourself during events? If so, how would you rate your golf game compared to the pros?

I haven’t played golf in 18 months due to my schedule, and given I spend over half the year on the golf course, I don’t feel the need. I rate my game as zero to the pros, just because you watch a lot of golf doesn’t mean it makes you a better golfer, as all golfers would attest to.

If you weren’t managing security and logistics, what role in the world of golf would you love to take on? Would you prefer being a caddie, commentator, or perhaps even a player?

From the three options you mentioned, I think commentator would suit me, as I have watched enough golf over the past three decades to know a little something about the game.

What’s in store for the remainder of the year? For readers who follow the tournament, which player should we keep an eye on?

I am working on LIV Golf Adelaide now as it has moved to an earlier time slot — February, 14-15, 2025

In 2025, I will possibly head back to the UK in July and take on another event in Asia time permitting.

Also working with the Australian PGA for their event at Royal Queensland from November 21 to 24 this year. Sadly, I will miss the Australian Open Golf for the first time in 30 years as I can’t fit it into my schedule this year.

Golfers to watch this year for the Australian season are.

• Cam Smith

• Adam Scott

• Joaquin Niemann

• Min Wow Lee

Darryl Reid and Greg Norman.

1997 Presidents Cup in New York, Darryl had the opportunity to attend a players’ welcome party event and listen to two US Presidents talk (George W Bush and Bill Clinton) on the 101st floor of the World Trade Center.

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STORY: KELLY CARMODY

’80s flashbacks

RELIVING THE ’80S THROUGH THE MAGIC OF MEMES.

If you’ve made it past your 40s, you’re like me — feeling slightly blessed to be alive after surviving the ’80s as a kid.

It was a wild, weird, and incredibly wonderful time. Today, as I stumble across memes that capture the essence of that era, I can’t help but laugh … out loud … and a lot.

Looking back, it’s difficult to believe how different things were.

We rode bikes without helmets, drank water straight from the hose, and spent entire days outside without a single check-in from our parents.

The fashion was a riot of colours and patterns, the hairstyles defied gravity, and the iconic toys and TV shows defined our childhood.

Now, as I scroll through the digital remnants of that time, it’s funny to see how the ’80s have been distilled into a series of images and captions.

Memes have a way of capturing the absurdity of those years, reminding us of a simpler, yet somehow more eccentric, world.

Yet, there’s something bittersweet about it all.

Sure, we laugh at the ridiculousness of it now, but those were formative years that shaped who we are today.

The ’80s taught us resilience, creativity, and the art of finding joy in the little things — even if that joy was simply getting the high score on Pac-Man or yelling ‘hello’ into a fan.

What a time. Here are some memes I’ve found that, I hope, will make you laugh out loud too.

STORY: KELLY CARMODY

Restoring life balance

MASTERING PHYSICAL AND MENTAL HEALTH, RELATIONSHIPS, AND WORK-LIFE BALANCE THROUGH LIFESTYLE COACH MICHAEL REID’S

‘BURNOUT

TO BALANCE’ PROGRAM.

Lifestyle coach Michael Reid knows all too well the hardships of mental and physical health, having experienced a personal breakdown 10 years ago.

After years of battling depression and anxiety, and feeling as if he were losing his identity, Michael kept himself busy as a way to distract himself from the harsh realities he was facing.

Despite his efforts, he was constantly stressed and overwhelmed.

“I noticed I was getting physically sick regularly, then my mental health and relationships were getting affected, I had lost motivation and the energy I once had,” he said.

“I was becoming cynical of my work and everything I’d worked so hard for, and this led to a severe burnout, which led to a breakdown of my physical and mental health as well as my identity.

“I then struggled with depression and anxiety for many years because I wasn’t able to read the early warning signs and make the internal and external changes that I needed to make.

“This also led to a breakdown of lifelong relationships with friends and family, which caused a lot of emotional hurt and confusion.”

Struggling to be present and available for his four kids and wife, Michael reached out to a high-performance coaching organisation, which put him on the path of ongoing personal growth.

“I was avoiding so many experiences I truly wanted to have, and I eventually admitted I was stressed, miserable, and that I needed change, and that I didn’t know what to do and that I needed someone to help,” Michael said.

“The last five years has transformed my external and internal life-body, mind and spirit, and today, after investing so much into various types of programs, coaches and therapies, I am able to chart a course for others to experience the same transformation.”

Burnout to Balance is the name of his four-month coaching program that is specifically tailored for business owners wanting to find the balance between work, health, family and life.

CENTRAL TYRE SERVICE

The lifestyle coaching program can take individuals from any stage of burnout to balance in their external and internal lifestyle.

While giving them the time, freedom and energy to spend more time with family, doing the things that bring joy, while being more connected to themselves.

“Even if your physical/mental health, relationships or dreams are on the rocks, with the right strategy, mindset and tools, you can move forward and create the lifestyle you want around your business – you just need some guidance in how to create balance across your work, health and relationships,” he said.

“The best way you can get started is to watch my free 90-minute training video on how to go from burnout to balance — you can find this on my social media or website which is www.michaelreid.earth

“This will give you a lot of tips and strategies to help you overcome burnout and create balance in your lifestyle, and I highly recommend you start with this if you are interested.”

The programs are 100 per cent tailored to the unique challenges, goals and dreams of each individual.

They provide a holistic mind-body-spirit approach so that positive changes become more than just wishful thinking and become a part of one’s subconscious and last long term.

“If you can resonate with any part of the struggle I have had or the dream of creating an amazing lifestyle for you and those you love, then this lifestyle coaching program is for you,” Michael said.

“I’d love to hear from you and where you are at — just shoot me a text or email, and we will go from there.”

Michael’s four-month program consists of a one-on-one session either in person at Michael’s Tatura office or via a

For more information, contact Michael on 0408 750 723, email michael@michaelreid.earth or alternatively reach out via his social media sites www.instagram.com/michaelreidcoaching or www.facebook.com/michaelreidcoaching

Michael with his four energetic sons.

Zoom meeting once a fortnight.

DON’T PUT IT OFF

Here’s what you need and when:

A blood pressure check every two years.

Regular STI screening for sexually active women of all ages.

A Breast self-check once a month.

A Bone Health check once a year from age 45 or post-menopause.

A Cervical screening test. Ask your health provider about self-collection.

Pay attention to your mental health and know the difference between occasional moodiness and an emerging mental health concern.

This Women’s Health Week, GVPHU encourages all women to put themselves first through keeping up to date with regular check ups.

Did you know? PUT YOUR HEALTH & WELLBEING FIRST!

One third of Victorian women lack adequate physical activity and have insufficient fruit and vegetable intake.

45% of Australian females have experienced a mental health problem at some point in their lifetime.

One in five Victorian women are affected by family violence over the course of their lifetime, being the leading contributor to preventable death, disability and illness.

BETTY

of Australian males have 1 or more chronic health conditions. 49% of males aged 16–85 years report having issues with their mental health at some point in their lifetime. 43%

Men visit the doctor less frequently, have shorter visits, and only attend when their illness is in its later stages.

Leading causes of ill health and death among males aged 15 and over include:

• suicide

• coronary heart disease

• alcohol or substance use/abuse

• colon and rectum cancers.

Source:

STORY: KELLY CARMODY

From Shepparton to Dubai

SCULPTOR MARK NIGLIA’S ARTISTIC JOURNEY TO ONE ZA’ABEEL.

Translating a client’s vision into a tangible piece of art while infusing your own creative expression can often be a challenging process for an artist.

Yet, Shepparton sculptor Mark Niglia sees commission work as an opportunity rather than an obstacle.

He believes it opens doors to new experiences and challenges — precisely the kind of challenge that keeps his work unique and compelling.

Last year, this belief was put to the test when Mark was approached by a leading art consultancy and production company from the United Arab Emirates.

They commissioned him to create one of his sought-after, full-scale horse sculptures, a project that would push his creative boundaries and further solidify his reputation in the international art scene.

However, this particular horse sculpture came with an added layer of expectations. Why, you ask?

It was commissioned for Dubai royalty and destined to grace one of Dubai’s most iconic landmarks, One Za’abeel.

“The creative design team from Dubai provided me with a design brief and reference images of what they envisioned,” Mark said.

“I began submitting various sketches and continued revising and adjusting until the optimal design was achieved and approved by the client.

“From this point, 3D renderings were required and further adjustments of even the smallest details were made until he achieved the perfect representation of the client’s vision.

“The 3D rendering was a great way to give the client a better understanding of the finished product.”

Mark’s creative process explores the dynamic interaction between horse and human by harnessing the energy of distorted metals, charred wood, and fragmented concrete to bring his sculptures to life.

Crafting each full-scale piece as if he were sketching in the air, he evokes deep emotion, inviting reflections from the soul and offering a raw, dynamic and uniquely insightful perspective on life.

“The strength and power that a horse possesses, yet its ability to calm and heal, is mesmerising,” he said.

“I infuse my sculptures with the energy and emotions drawn from stories of people I know, my own experiences, and world events.

“Each horse carries its own meaning and story, and this one I made for royalty in Dubai and One Za’abeel was an incredible experience.”

One Za’abeel is a prominent mixed-use development in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

It was designed to be an iconic landmark, consisting of two skyscrapers connected by a dramatic sky bridge known as “The Link,” which is set to be one of the world’s longest cantilevered buildings.

The development includes luxury residences, offices, a hotel and retail spaces, and is positioned to be a symbol of modern architectural innovation in Dubai.

One Za’abeel is strategically located in the heart of the city, near the Dubai World Trade Center, offering stunning views of the cityscape.

The project gained international attention for its ambitious design and scale, making it a significant addition to Dubai’s skyline.

Mark’s horse sculpture, aptly named His Highness, now graces One Za’abeel, elevated by professional lighting that enhances its presence.

The sculpture stands proudly on a 300mm thick marble stage, offering a striking contrast to its origins in rural Shepparton, while overlooking the stunning views of Dubai’s cityscape.

“The process was both technical and deeply creative,” Mark said.

“Each piece required careful planning and execution to truly capture the essence of movement and grace. I was thrilled with how the final sculpture turned out.”

Mark’s approach to sculpting is unique, blending

Reflecting on the experience, Mark said the whole process was an absolute pleasure.

“Technology made it possible to work with an extremely professional team from the other side of the world for such a high-profile client,” Mark said.

“It’s been a progression of hard work, and I feel incredibly grateful for the opportunity to share my passion and artistry with the world.

“It’s a testament to a collaborative effort and the dedication that went into creating this incredible piece of art.”

technical precision with artistic flair.

“With this project, I knew it was different. The client had a very specific vision, so we engaged in extensive back-and-forth discussions about the design to ensure it was exactly what they wanted,” he said.

“The sculpture was crafted from a bright round bar, requiring a specialised welding method.”

Mark tig welded the piece using stainless-steel wire to achieve a smooth finish with minimal polishing before powder coating.

Once completed, the sculpture was sea-freighted to its destination in Dubai.

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STORY: KELLY CARMODY

Strength from the sidelines

JENNY

SIM’S QUIET DEDICATION TO VOLUNTEERING HAS TOUCHED COUNTLESS LIVES, PROVING THAT TRUE IMPACT OFTEN COMES FROM THOSE WHO WORK HUMBLY BEHIND-THE-SCENES.

At 76, Jenny Sim exemplifies the quiet strength of those who, preferring not to seek recognition, make a significant difference from the sidelines.

As a dedicated volunteer with Rotary and GV Hospice for over a decade, her contributions are inspiring and heart-warming.

However, Jenny’s earliest days of volunteering were driven by her commitment to her children and their education.

“I was always busy helping with my children’s activities like junior tennis, swimming lessons, and the mother’s club,” Jenny said.

“When you have kids, that’s what you do — you help out.”

Her involvement with Rotary includes organising fundraisers, supporting local events, and participating in the club’s numerous community projects.

It was through Rotary that Jenny discovered Smiling Hearts Uganda, a non-profit organisation dedicated to improving the lives of children in Uganda.

“Smiling Hearts Uganda focuses on providing education, healthcare, and support to disabled children, aiming to create opportunities for a brighter future,” she said.

“Their initiatives often include building schools, supplying educational materials, offering healthcare services, and supporting community development projects.”

Jenny’s annual fundraisers, including a popular dinner event, have raised significant funds for the organisation.

Her grandchildren are actively involved in her charitable efforts, setting up a small shop in her driveway to sell handmade items and donate the proceeds to the cause, as well as helping with the dinners.

“I started organising these dinners about five years ago after learning about Smiling Hearts, and the funds go directly to helping children who otherwise receive no support,” Jenny said.

“It feels good to help others, and it’s wonderful to see the next generation, including my own children and grandchildren, embracing the values of giving too.”

One of Jenny’s most impactful contributions has been through GV Hospice, where she began volunteering about 12 years ago.

Her inspiration came from a deeply personal place, while witnessing the support provided to a friend with breast cancer.

“Hospice made a difficult situation more bearable, and I wanted to be part of something that provided such comfort and care.” she said.

Jenny’s role at GV Hospice is multifaceted.

She provides companionship and support to patients, car-

ers, and their families, sometimes taking them out for coffee or simply offering a listening ear.

Her background as a nurse has equipped her with the compassion and understanding needed for this challenging role.

“Being a volunteer is incredibly rewarding,” Jenny said.

“It’s a privilege to be invited into someone’s life at such a vulnerable time.

“People often ask why I do this, and my answer is always, ‘Why not?’ It’s incredibly fulfilling to be able to help others, and I believe there are many people out there doing the same without seeking recognition.

“You always get back far more than you give.”

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From reality TV to real love

FTESS AND HARRY’S JOURNEY FROM FARM TO FOREVER.

rom Farm to Forever is the tagline of the Australian TV show Farmer Wants a Wife, encapsulating the enduring love, friendship, and connection each farmer hopes to find.

For Kyabram farmer Harry Lloyd, who appeared on the twelfth season in 2022, finding that forever person became a reality after ending the season declaring his love for Melbourne girl Tess Brookman.

Finding love on national television is a leap few are willing to take, but for Harry, it was a risk worth embracing.

His family and friends had always joked about him joining the show, and when the opportunity arose, he decided to go for it.

Tess, who at that time was a student on the Gold Coast with dreams of becoming a psychologist, was intrigued by Harry’s profile and decided to apply.

The producers made the match, Harry gave his approval, and before they knew it, filming had begun.

Now, nearly three fun-filled years later — after spending time together in sunny Queensland — they’ve returned to Harry’s family farm to embark on their next chapter.

With smiles from ear to ear, their connection is very strong.

What started on a reality TV show has blossomed into a love story neither of them could have imagined, and one thing is certain, farmer Harry has found his forever love in Tess.

“It was the best thing I’ve ever done and was really fun,” Harry said.

“Everyone on the crew was really great to work with and was really kind, and they really cared about you. It was a really positive experience.”

Tess agreed with Harry, adding how wonderful the opportunity was.

“We were living on a beautiful dairy property, all us girls got to go out and learn how to farm and Harry was awesome from the get-go,” Tess said.

“But it was three months, three intense months of living together and filming from 5am to 1am.

“You learn a lot about yourself, I think in that experience. Being under stress and not sure what’s going to be put on TV.

“On our farm we said friends first and be respectful, and we just had a lot of fun, and I think I just stuck to my own lane a little for self-preservation, probably.”

STORY AND PHOTOGRAPHY: KELLY CARMODY

So, it’s no wonder that after filming wrapped, their relationship took a positive turn, with Harry moving to the Gold Coast to be closer to her.

Harry took on some farming work, while Tess continued her studies, and later, the couple moved to Airlie Beach after Tess was offered a job opportunity to progress her career.

Admitting that the Gold Coast felt like a big city compared to his hometown of Kyabram, Harry said he found comfort in the familiarity of farm work and said it felt like a home away from home.

“It was really good, and it was like having a bit of home somewhere else,” Harry said.

“I met a lot of new people up there, and it was another really positive experience.”

“I think since we’ve met, we have met so many new people, had so many new experiences and learnt a lot,” Tess said.

“We moved away from this farm and learnt two other ways of farming in two different areas.

“It broadens your understanding of farming … it was busy while I was working and studying too, but it was a great experience.”

Earlier this year, the loved-up couple left the sunny shores of Airlie Beach and returned to home soil in Victoria, where Tess now works as a college psychologist at St Augustine’s College in Kyabram.

After years of study, she is thoroughly enjoying the role, supported by a wonderful team as she settles into community life while helping Harry with the farm.

And as for Harry, it’s business as usual back on the family farm, as if he had never left.

Despite their busy work schedules, community involvement, local sport and according to the couple many visitors, Harry and Tess have found a cause close to their hearts in Farm Angels, formerly known as Drought Angels.

The pair is dedicated to raising awareness for the organisation, which supports farming individuals and families across Australia in times of need.

For Harry, the mission is personal — he vividly recalls his own family receiving help from similar organisations during his childhood.

“Farm Angels is something that is really important to both Tess and I,” Harry said.

“Growing up during the millennial drought, our family was affected pretty heavily by drought, and we received support from organisations like them.

There was always something I really liked about Tess right from day one and that just kept growing.

— HARRY LLOYD “

Right from the start, Harry openly said that he really liked Tess. In fact, it was from day one.

“There was always something I really liked about Tess right from day one and that just kept growing,” Harry said with a smile, while looking towards Tess.

“It’s kind of what you want in that kind of situation, I think.”

As the season progressed, their relationship blossomed and on the final episode, Harry admitted he had struggled with the concept of a long-distance romance, but confessed his love for Tess.

Ecstatic and overjoyed by his heartfelt words, Tess expressed her love for Harry in return.

“So, any opportunity we can help support them and get out there and help everyone across Australia, we will. And it’s just not necessarily the farmer, it can be the family and the kids too.

“I still remember one Christmas when we got all these extra gifts that were donated from strangers, and it was just amazing that people cared about us and thought of doing that … It’s really important to get out there and check on your neighbours, it's not always necessarily about money, it’s just as important to be actively checking up on people.”

As a psychologist, Tess understands the struggles and concerns surrounding mental health, which strengthens her commitment to the cause.

Noting that people may say they are okay when, in reality, they are not.

“We are happy to support an organisation that is, so values driven and are doing such good work,” Tess said.

“And something that Farm Angels offers is mental health checks of either a phone call to the farmer or even jumping in the car and visiting them and the family on the farm.

Farm Angels is something that is really important to both Tess and I.

— HARRY LLOYD “

“I think in my line of work that is really important, and we are happy to support and raise awareness in whatever capacity we can to help other people know the organisation.”

In their mid-20s, Harry and Tess have already accomplished a great deal together, and their journey is just beginning, with their entire future still ahead.

Over the years, one question that has frequently come up for the couple, is whether Harry plans to ask Tess to marry him.

I mean, the TV show is called Farmer Wants a Wife, so it makes sense … Are there any wedding plans, or perhaps thoughts of starting a family? Their response ... Well, let's just say they like to keep everyone guessing.

“We are enjoying where we are now, and we are just going to keep going,” Harry said.

“Life’s good now.

“We have our dreams of owning a farm and hopefully a family and all those things, and I think it is a question we are asked often,” Tess said with a smile, while adoringly looking at Harry.

“But hopefully together forever and all that fun stuff to look forward to.”

BETTY & DON

STORY: KELLY CARMODY

get on board an adventure

KELLY FERGUSON AND LACHLAN OLSEN’S EUROPEAN ADVENTURE PROVES THAT WITH THE RIGHT PLANNING AND PASSION, TRAVEL CAN CREATE TRULY UNFORGETTABLE EXPERIENCES.

Egether as a couple, both Kelly and Lachlan are seasoned travellers in their own right.

With their combined experience and the expert guidance of Travel Manager’s travel consultant David Brown, they have become a globe-trotting duo well-versed in the top destinations that should be on every bucket list.

xploring the world one trip at a time is the path

Kelly Ferguson and fiancée Lachlan Olsen are eager to pursue.

And why not? In their 50s, with grown children — some already out of the nest and others old enough to fend for themselves — they’re well and truly ready to embrace that freedom and travel the world.

I couldn’t agree more — pack those suitcases and set off on an adventure!

However, what sets this couple apart is their passion for inspiring others to travel too.

COVID and work commitments meant lots of domestic travel, and although they’ve only taken one overseas trip to-

So, get ready to pack your bags — mentally, at least — because their five-week journey to Italy I’m about to share with you will have you wanting to call David to book your own adventure.

It’s September 2023, and where is their first stop you ask? Well, every international holiday usually starts with a plane ride, so their first destination is Melbourne Airport.

“We had a seamless journey from Melbourne to Doha with Qatar Airways and arrived in Rome. Even the airport in Doha is an amazing place and our trip had only just begun,” Kelly said.

“We spent one night in Rome, and then we went down south.

“

It was an incredible experience, and we could not complain about anything.

I was very impressed.

— KELLY FERGUSON

BETTY & DON MAGAZINE

“Train to Naples, a ferry to Sorrento and then enjoyed the Amalfi Coast for a few days before going back up to Rome and joining the Trafalgar Tour.”

Kelly and Lachlan believe during their trip they experienced every form of transport imaginable.

Their journey was carefully planned, with each of the three stages offering a different level of effort.

The first leg of the trip took them to the Amalfi Coast, where they navigated the challenge of catching trains, ferries, taxis and buses, made their own plans, and essentially became self-sufficient travellers.

The second stage was a Trafalgar Tour by bus, where the focus shifted to simply having their bags ready and allowing the tour guide to lead the way.

Finally, the 10-day cruise provided the ultimate relaxation — time to put their feet up and enjoy an entirely different pace.

Kelly and Lachlan’s 11-day Trafalgar Tour adventure in Italy began and ended in Rome, creating a full circle through the country’s northern rich cultural and historical landscapes.

They started by exploring Rome’s iconic sites like the Vatican and the Colosseum, before heading north to the medieval town of Lucca and the picturesque Cinque Terre.

Their journey continued through the art-filled streets of Florence and the rolling hills of Tuscany, where they visited San Gimignano and Pisa.

They then travelled to Verona, famous for Juliet’s Balcony, and soaked in the magic of Venice’s canals.

The trip concluded with a foodies heaven in Bologna, a serene visit to Assisi and a final stop in Tivoli before returning to Rome.

“On the first night of the Trafalgar Tour, we were kind of doubting if we were going to make friends with anyone, but on the second day, we went to a winery and that was it,” Lachlan said.

“There are a lot of people we have made friends for life with and photos of the group antics we won’t share for the magazine.” he added with a laugh.

“The Trafalgar Tour was amazing, and again I am going to come back to David, because he knew the different companies and gave us the best advice on what we really wanted to see and do,” Kelly said.

“Trafalgar has a cheaper version called cost saver, but we wanted to make sure we were staying in Florence and staying in Venice, whereas with other companies, you’re actually staying 20 minutes out of the immediate area.

“We researched from other people’s experiences that tours like this can be go, go, go every day and sleeping in uncomfortable accommodation and not being able to explore the town easily, whereas with Trafalgar, we stayed everywhere for two nights and the accommodation was great and the tours amazing.

“It was an incredible experience, and we could not complain about anything. I was very impressed.”

After returning to Rome, Kelly and Lachlan extended their stay for an additional three nights in Trastevere, a vibrant and lively hub of the city.

They both commented that Trastevere was easy to explore on foot, offering convenient access to historical landmarks, and also felt very safe and were warmly welcomed by many friendly locals.

“We just loved it there. It had a fabulous atmosphere and can’t wait to get back there.” Kelly said.

“It had a young vibe with quaint cafés, and it was just so easy to get around and keep exploring,” Lachlan said.

“There were some spots we visited a few times at different times of the day, and each time it offered a different view of the history you were around.”

Kelly and Lachlan’s next adventure was the 10-night European cruise on the Norwegian Breakaway.

It took them to a variety of stunning destinations, starting and ending in Civitavecchia, Rome.

Along the way, they explored Santorini, Athens, Corfu, Valletta, Messina, Naples, Livorno, and Cannes, experiencing a rich blend of history, culture, and breathtaking scenery.

“Again, David helped us pick the right cruise ship, and basically, he organised it all for us and the cruise was brilliant,” Kelly said.

“It sailed at night and then the following day you would be in a new location where you would be on a tour, exploring the area yourself or staying on the ship — flexibility to do a cruise as busy or as relaxed as you want it to be.

“There was around 4000 people on board, but it honestly didn’t feel like there was that many people at all.

“Some of the tender ports were a bit harder and longer to get off, but you figure out all that as you go along and just having a chill out day on the ship was amazing too.”

After meeting such fantastic people on the Trafalgar trip, they weren’t sure how the cruise was going to top this, and it certainly exceeded their expectations.

They once again met some of the most amazing people from all over the world during the cruise, whether it was over dinner, on tours or parties at night.

With more travel plans on the horizon, including their next adventure in the United States and another Mediterranean cruise planned — this time as a reunion with their Trafalgar Tour friends, Kelly and Lachlan said if someone was interested in travel, they should absolutely get out there and experience it.

“Just make it happen because it’s absolutely worth it,” Lachlan said.

“It’s the people you meet and the amazing day-to-day experiences that you will have with you for a lifetime,” Kelly said.

“If travel is one of your passions, don’t let it be a barrier. Explore different countries and enjoy the experience, whether you’re on a budget or seeking luxury — there’s an option for everyone.

“There are so many options for worldwide travel now, and having someone like David as a local expert in Shepparton to help map everything out makes the adventure much easier to arrange and more enjoyable.”

Travel Manager’s travel consultant David Brown.

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STORY: KELLY CARMODY

sunnies make a difference

PROTECT YOUR EYES AND SUPPORT A VITAL CAUSE AT THE SUNGLASSES EXPO.

Despite most Australians being familiar with the SunSmart mantra ‘Slip-Slop-Slap-Seek’, many remain unaware that their eyes are just as vulnerable to sunburn as their skin.

Even more concerning, a recent study found that nearly one in 10 Australians don’t know UV-protective sunglasses exist, and an additional 30 per cent consider them unnecessary.

Shepparton optometry business Graham Hill Eyecare

GV Health nurse Brydie Keating, Graham Hill Eyecare senior receptionist and personal stylist Cherie Keating and GV Health nurse Elly Keating.

knows all too well how damaging prolonged exposure to direct ultraviolet light from the sun can be and are urging people of all ages to remember not to underestimate the need to protect their eyes from the sun’s harmful UV rays.

Director Mark DePaola said as well as harmful UV rays, reflective surfaces like water or sand, can cause significant damage to the eyes over time too.

“In Australia, we face some of the highest UV levels globally, putting our eyes at significant risk of serious issues if they are not protected,” Mark said.

“Going without sunglasses is just as harmful as stepping out in summer without a hat and sunscreen.

“UV radiation can cause damage all-year-round, and it’s essential to wear UV-protective sunglasses at all times when outdoors, not just during the peak UV exposure period in summer.

“To maximise protection, purchasing UV protective lenses with category three or four protection is what people need to be looking for.”

In addition to promoting this important eye health message locally, Graham Hill Eyecare has furthered its efforts with an annual Sunglasses Expo over the past few years.

The expo has proved to be their busiest trading days in their 60-year history and serves as a significant fundraising event that not only underscores the importance of eye health and care, but also supports a community initiative.

With a 20 per cent discount on both scripted and non-scripted sunglasses available for purchase at the event, 50 per cent of all sales is then donated back into the community to the GV Health Foundation’s Ladies Who Lunch, which

raises funds for local women undergoing cancer treatment.

Last year, the expo contributed $20,000 to the GV Health Foundation, and they are poised to make a similar impact this year.

Graham Hill Eyecare optical dispenser and expo organiser Jill Maude said supporting GV Health oncology was very important to the business, with the annual event becoming a yearly highlight for all staff.

“It’s a wonderful day — the entire showroom is transformed, with hundreds of frames to choose from,” Jill said.

“We offer ranges that you wouldn’t typically find in the country, and the event keeps growing each year.

“It’s wonderful to have an event where people can find great deals on quality UV-protective sunglasses, while also giving back to a cause that’s so important in our region.”

The Graham Hill Eyecare Sunglasses Expo this year will be held on Wednesday, October 30 from 10am to 7pm.

The team at Graham Hill Eyecare is looking forward to another successful event that offers great deals on quality sunglasses and continues to make a positive impact on the local community.

“Over the last two years, we’ve raised $40,000,” Mark said.

“My family has personally experienced the professionalism, empathy, and care provided by our local oncology unit, and I know hundreds of other families in the area have as well.

“This event has quickly become a favourite for our staff, and we take great pride in being active community members who can give back to such an important cause.”

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At the heart of the experience is the renowned "Avenue of Legends," where the stories of transport icons and their machines unfold.

Collection of

and radios, and the stunning Loel Thomson Costume Collection.

Beyond vehicles, MOVE is home to a diverse range of incredible collections: the Furphy Museum, the Farren Vintage Bicycle Collection, the Dick Clayton

Each exhibit is brilliantly displayed in an interactive and modern space, creating an immersive experience for visitors of all ages.

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Annabelle: Saints

Secrets

yellow, $99.95, Arcade Fashions. Mel: Foil Paradise dress

printed, $189.95, Pampen’s Boutique.

Annabelle: Cue satin draped midi dress – olive, $325, Olga Berg bag – black, $99.95, Kasmo plate hat – black, $79.95, Traffik Boutique.

Mel: Joseph Ribkoff pleated satin midi dress –greenery, $439, Pampen’s Boutique.

Naturals linen dress –printed, $259.99; Anna Nova tote bag –brown, $94.99; Kiki earrings , $14.99, Perfect Pieces.

Two T’s logo line dress –art print, $219; Olga Berg Ivy hand bag –natural, $99.95; Adorne ball drop earrings –silver, $29.95, Shop 221.

Once Was Augustine waterfall viscose dobby top , $279.95; Once Was Augustine viscose dobby straight leg pant , $299.95, Nixon + Maude.

Photographers: Renee Doyle and Sanal Mathew

Location: Shepparton Golf Club, visit www.sheppartongolf.net.au

Clothing and accessories: Pampen’s Boutique, Traffik Boutique, Shop 221, Arcade Fashions, Nixon + Maude and Perfect Pieces. Hair and make-up: Makeup By Cathy Kelly, M: 0407 522 575 E: cathy.kelly@bigpond.com. Follow Cathy on Instagram and Facebook.

Shoes: Owned by models

Models: Annabelle Ackland and Mel Wright

Left: Esmaee Avenue trench coat – black, $229.95; Bardot Karoline hourglass mini dress – canary yellow, $199.95; Morgan + Taylor hat – white; Olga berg bag –white, $99.95, Traffik Boutique. Right: Mika + Gala dress – cream and black, $99.95; Billini bag – black, $79.95; earrings – black, white and pearl, $79.95, Arcade Fashions. Kasmo plate hat – black, $79.95 (from Traffik Boutique).

Left: Mel: Once Was Tierra contrast trim silk cotton midi dress, $459.95, Nixon + Maude. Annabelle: Palm Cove Aussie way dress, $199.99; Anna Nova tote bag

– white, $99.99; Kiki earrings, $14.99, Perfect Pieces. Right: Bardot Karoline hourglass mini dress – canary yellow, $199.95; Morgan + Taylor hat – white; Olga berg bag – white, $99.95, Traffik Boutique.

Top left: Naturals linen dress – printed, $259.99; $94.99; Kiki earrings, $14.99, Perfect Pieces. Top right: Miss Anne clutch – white, $39.95, Shop 221. Middle Right: Once Was Augustine waterfall viscose dobby top, $279.95, Nixon + Maude. Bottom: Anthea Crawford Milena dress – black floral, $499; Morgan + Taylor Jess droop hat – black, $89.95; Adorne earrings – silver, $29.95, Shop 221.

Function rooms available from 20 to 250 people. With stunning views overlooking the pristine golf course and 12 motel rooms onsite, the Shepparton Golf Club is the perfect venue for your next function or corporate event.

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Reel tricks

Use bread as bait

When you’re out of bait, plain white bread can work wonders, especially for freshwater fish like carp and catfish. Just mould it around the hook tightly.

DIY float with wine cork

In a pinch, you can use a wine cork as a float. Simply insert a toothpick through the cork to secure it to the fishing line.

Fish finder with a smartphone

Attach your smartphone to a waterproof case, and use fish-finding apps that connect to a small, portable sonar device. This set-up is compact and effective.

Use glow sticks for night fishing

Attach a small glow stick to your float or fishing line for better visibility during night fishing.

Keep hooks sharp

Carry a small file or sharpening stone to keep your hooks razor-sharp. A dull hook can mean a lost catch.

Store fishing rods with pool noodles

Use pool noodles to safely store and transport fishing rods. Slice the noodle and insert the rods to prevent tangling and damage.

Freeze your bait

If you’re using live bait, keep it fresher longer by freezing it the night before. It will thaw slowly during the day, staying fresh.

Prevent tangles with rubber bands

Wrap rubber bands around your fishing rods when transporting them to prevent the lines from tangling.

Mark your line depth

Use a permanent marker to mark your fishing line at the depth where you’re getting bites. This way, you can return to the same spot more easily.

DIY hook remover with a straw

Cut a small slit in a plastic straw and use it to push the hook out of a fish’s mouth, minimising injury to the fish.

Enhance bait with scents

Boost the effectiveness of artificial bait by soaking it in garlic oil, anise oil, or other fish attractants before use.

STORY: GEORGIA TACEY

PHOTOGRAPHY: RECHELLE ZAMMIT

Pushing extreme limits

ROGER ROBINSON LOVES A GOOD, LONG RUN.

Agruelling 40km marathon is merely a warm-up.

Instead, he prefers long distance runs, up to 100km up and down mountains and testing his endurance to the most extreme limits.

For a decade, Roger and his mates have pushed their limits in various ultra-endurance events, from obstacle courses to his favourite – the punishing 100km races.

Gearing up for these events demands dedication, with Roger and his friends following a rigorous training regimen.

“You’re never fully prepared,” he said.

“I think the reason we do it is probably more to challenge ourselves, to see what we’re made of because we’re not athletes.

“People often ask, why do you do it, but you don’t really know what you’re made of until you try something outside your comfort zone, and I find there’s no growth when you stay in your comfort zone.”

Over the past 10 years, Roger has competed in more races than he can count. Countless medals hang on the wall of his home office, marking the momentous achievements he’s made.

Some of the events he’s participated in include the Tough Mudder, an obstacle course through mud, Spartan Race and the Oxfam 100km, but one race he’s done stands out as a favourite.

“There’s this race called Hut 2 Hut, it’s based in Mt Buller, and it’s a 100 kilometre event that starts and finishes in Mt Buller,” Roger said.

“It has something like, maybe four and a half thousand metres of elevation in it, so that was probably the hardest one that I’ve done.”

TACKLING ISSUES ON AND OFF THE FIELD

I’m making it my goal to train with every football and netball club in our electorate. Training with clubs means I get to hear from the ground what matters to you.

BIRRELL

FEDERAL MEMBER FOR NICHOLLS

Sam BIRRELL MP

FEDERAL MEMBER FOR NICHOLLS

426 Wyndham Street, Shepparton VIC 3630 03 5821 5371 sambirrell.com.au

SamBirrellMP sam.birrell.mp@aph.gov.au

Authorised by Sam Birrell, The National Party of Australia, Shepparton.

Sporting Clubs are more than just a game, they are a hub for our communities and I’m continuing to fight for governments to invest in local facilities, so everyone has the opportunity to play.

426 Wyndham Street, Shepparton VIC 3630 03 5821 5371 sambirrell.com.au

SamBirrellMP sam.birrell.mp@aph.gov.au

Authorised by Sam Birrell, The National Party of Australia, Shepparton.

Roger and his mates maintain a rigorous training schedule, attending VIPT sessions twice-weekly for conditioning training. Additionally, Roger dedicates five days a week to strength training at Derrimut Gym.

In the lead-up to an ultra-running event, Roger ups the intensity of his workouts.

“When I’m doing an ultra, I’ll be doing some really long runs, 20 and 30km runs, those sorts of things,” Roger said.

“You have to spend a lot of time training for it.”

When he’s not hitting the track, Roger loves spending time with his three kids and partner.

While they share his love for fitness, the 100km ultra-marathons remain Roger’s personal challenge – for now.

“I’ve always been a fairly active person, and I think back when I was a kid, my dad was quite active, and I’d see him go for runs,” he said.

“I guess as a child, you do what your parents do a little bit subconsciously.

“The kids come to my events, and some of the best, most memorable moments are when they meet me at the finish line, and they cross the finish line with me.”

They’re his own personal cheer squad.

While these events take a lot of strength and endurance, what motivates Roger is knowing he’s doing these events with his best mates.

“I wouldn’t be doing this if I hadn’t been involved with my friends doing it,” he said.

“While (these runs) are not extreme, in my view, they’re challenging, and when we challenge ourselves, we ask ourselves what we’re made of.”

STORY: GEORGIA TACEY

A fresh take on news

WHO SAID LOCAL NEWS HAD TO BE BORING?

Cohosts of the new Shepp Happens podcast, Djembe Archibald and Nicola Ceccato, sure don’t think so.

The News’ latest podcast is delivering news content in a fun, bite-sized format, perfect to soundtrack your daily commute.

“We love to yap, and I think I just wanted a place where I can yap professionally,” Djembe said.

“We’re just having a really relaxed, casual chat,” Nicola said. The duo’s chemistry is infectious, and you’ll find yourself counting down the days until the next episode is out.

“I love talking to Nicola, we talk all the time,” Djembe said.

Episodes will be out every second Thursday, and for those who can’t wait that extra week without the girls, there will be editor cuts coming out on the off weeks to give you your fix.

Expect lots of fun, laughs, good times and plenty of feel good news too.

“The world of media is changing so much in how we consume news and also how we engage with it with other people,” Nicola said.

“Like when I go, and I talk to my friends about things that are happening in the news, I’m not necessarily talking hard news.

“I think the biggest issue is that young people find news to be too overwhelming ... like I sometimes find I have to switch off because it’s too much.

“We want to be able to bring localised news for young people in a format that doesn’t put pressure on them to feel like they always have to be listening, but they can, and they can enjoy it.”

There are already plenty of episodes out for you to sink your teeth into, so all that’s left for you to do is find out what Shepp Happens

Shepp Happens is available on The News’ website, Spotify and Acast.

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Members and guests can enjoy great facilities, surrounded by picturesque native bushland, right here in the Goulburn Valley

• Quality 18-hole course to suit all golfing abilities

• 12 bay full length driving range

• Pro Shop stocking leading brands

• Bowling green

• The Eagles and Birdies Bistro

• TAB facilities

• Courtesy Bus, Friday and Saturday evenings

Golfing lessons and Pro Shop

PGA Professional, Ben Weatherly operates the GV Golf Centre from the Pro Shop that is open to the public 7 days per week.

I remember at a really young age telling my grandfather please don’t ever die on me.

—

JARVIS

ATKINSON “

overcoming

STORY: GEORGIA TACEY PHOTOGRAPHY: MEGAN FISHER

overcoming the odds

JARVIS ATKINSON TRIED HIS FIRST DRUG WHEN HE WAS ONLY 14. HIS FIRST DRINK, HE WAS ONLY SEVEN.

Today, he stands six years sober at 40 years old, overcoming decades of trauma, a completely different person than he used to be.

But the journey wasn’t easy.

As a baby, Jarvis was moved into the care of his grandparents after his young mother couldn’t take care of him, after facing the trauma of losing Jarvis’ twin brother at birth.

“I’m forever grateful and thankful for (my grandparents) stepping up and taking me on,” he said.

“I remember at a really young age telling my grandfather please don’t ever die on me.

“I already had this abandonment issue going on, because my mother wasn’t able to be there and I don’t know my biological father, so I clung onto my grandparents.”

He remembers growing up in a warm, loving home, surrounded by uncles in the north end of Shepparton, playing football and hanging with cousins.

At age 11, the family received some life changing news that hit Jarvis especially hard. His grandfather had been diagnosed with cancer.

“He was my father,” he said.

“It hit me really hard; I was watching my father die right in front of me.”

Jarvis started acting out to cope.

When the time came, Jarvis remembers getting an intense feeling he needed to be at home.

“I was staying at my cousin’s house (that night), and I woke up at three o’clock in the morning and I knew something was wrong,” he said.

BETTY & DON MAGAZINE

He remembers riding his bike back home, and knocking on his front door, his grandfather greeting him on the other side.

“He started giving me this big lecture, you know, what am I doing? I was always out late, hanging around the wrong people,” Jarvis said.

He remembers apologising to his grandfather before grabbing a glass of water to go to bed.

“My grandfather walked back to his bedroom, and I hear this choking noise and my grandmother yells out ‘call an ambulance, I think we just lost your father’,” he said.

Immediately, he said he was overcome with guilt, blaming himself.

Losing someone so important to him so young was extremely hard on him, but unfortunately that wasn’t the only loss he would experience that year.

“About two, three weeks later, after his funeral, me and my cousin were at the BMX track, and we’re riding our bikes, you know it was a lovely, sunny day,” Jarvis said.

“We decided to go to Gowrie St Primary School to play basketball.

“This was when they first started building shade cloths over the assembly areas and Gowrie St had this massive one, like 15 or 20 feet high.

“We started jumping on that shade cloth, until it started to get dark. I said to my cousin, ‘let’s go, your mum would be looking for us’ and he said ‘one more jump’.

“He fell straight through the shade cloth.”

His cousin was unrecognisable to him.

Jarvis recalls the ambulance coming, and his cousin being airlifted to the Royal Children’s Hospital in Melbourne.

“He was down in the Royal Children’s Hospital for about a week, and when I went down to see him, just as I got there, they turned the machines off,” he said.

At this age, Jarvis knew he was at a crossroads in his life. He was staring down a dark path, hanging around bad crowds and starting to experiment with alcohol and other substances. School wasn’t working for him, as growing up Indigenous he struggled with racism in the classroom.

“I was hurting … so I ended up chasing that feel good and I got caught up in drugs and crime,” he said.

At 14, he had dropped out of school, and drugs were beginning to become part of his life, taking form in his teen years.

“

I was hurting … so I ended up chasing that feel good and I got caught up in drugs and crime.

— JARVIS ATKINSON

At 17, Jarvis remembers a moment where his luck started to change, when he met his first partner, whom he was blessed to have a son and a daughter with.

“She was the total opposite of what I was becoming. She was strong and safe,” he said.

“She came into my life at this time when I was on this road of destruction, and things were real hard for me.

“But I was gaining too much momentum in that other life and my addictions were starting to really come in. By this stage, I started experimenting with speed and ecstasy and I was bringing all the wrong crowds around my house.

“By the time my son was five and my daughter was two, my partner had enough of the person I was becoming.”

They called it off, and later he had another partner and another daughter, but he messed that up too.

Jarvis was spiralling out of control, fuelled by his addictions. He was filled with resentment, guilt and abandonment, and he was getting desperate.

At 28, he found himself in Port Phillip Prison for armed robbery.

“By this stage, I was addicted to everything,” he said.

“That first time I was locked up was in 2012, and so every year to 2018 I was in and out of jail every year.

“Sometimes I was in there four or five times a year.”

In 2015, he found himself in Port Phillip again, before he was bailed out. But this time, he was sent to a rehabilitation centre, Odyssey House in Richmond.

There, he spent the next eight months coming off the methadone program, which is an opiate replacement drug that is prescribed and administered by healthcare professionals. It is seen as an alternative to injecting heroin and other high-risk opioids.

“I was on a real high dose, I was on like 135 milligrams and I was on that for eight years,” Jarvis said.

“I came off that in rehab, and I thought I was cured, so I left.”

Jarvis wound up back in Shepparton, living out of his mum’s house, promising her that things were different this time, after all, he was eight months clean, the longest he had ever been before.

“I was doing really good for probably about four months at my mother’s place,” he said.

“It wasn’t long after I ended up relapsing and offending again, on the run from the police.

“I remember I came home to my mum’s house and she couldn’t do it no more, she couldn’t put up with me. So she said I had to go.

“I couldn’t think of one place I could go where I didn’t burn my bridges or I wasn’t a burden.”

Jarvis ended up homeless on the streets of Melbourne, sleeping in streets and parks.

“In this time, I was homeless down there for six or eight months, and in that time, I overdosed about five times,” he said.

“All up, I probably overdosed about 15 times (in my life).

“I remember the last time I overdosed, I woke up in the Alfred Hospital and I had all these tubes hanging out of me, I had a catheter and drips and all these things on me and oxygen.

“I looked down at my name tag, and it said unknown.

“I just thought, I could actually die, and my kids wouldn’t even know where I am, my family wouldn’t even know where I am, these doctors don’t even know me.

“So I asked a nurse, I said ‘How’d I get here?’ and she said ‘You were found face down on the train tracks at Flinders St Station unresponsive’.”

He ripped all his tubes out and walked straight out of the hospital.

“I hit this rock bottom, where I just started to accept that this was my life and I’m either going to end up dead or in jail for a long time,” he said.

After an application finally went through for public housing he made years ago came through, he came back to Shepparton with good intentions, ready to do right by his kids and himself.

But he said it wasn’t long before things went south for

him again, and he found himself back inside the Shepparton cells.

“I committed another armed robbery and I found myself back in the cells, looking at a really long time,” Jarvis said.

“I remember sitting in there, about to give up, and I really didn’t think any changes were going to happen. I was starting to lose hope.

“I remember the trap door came down and the police officer sticks his head in the trap and he says, ‘Jarvis, there’s someone here to see you’.”

He remembers going to the meeting room to discover a drug and alcohol worker from Odyssey House.

— JARVIS ATKINSON “

My son wrote on this piece of paper ‘all I want is for my Dad to get off drugs forever’...

“She said ‘sign this application, give Odyssey House another go and give it all you’ve got’ and I said no way,” he said.

But the worker was persistent, reminding him of his first time at the centre in 2015, when his son came to see him.

“There was a prayer Wishing Tree in the front foyer that they made, and visitors could come and they could write on this piece of paper and they could hang it on the tree,” Jarvis said.

“My son wrote on this piece of paper ‘all I want is for my Dad to get off drugs forever’, she reminded me of that.

“It just broke me, I started crying and it gave me the strength to pick up that pen and sign that application and go back and give Odyssey another try.”

It wasn’t a guarantee that Jarvis would end back up in Odyssey House. He had taken that first step, but now it was all up to the judge.

“I ended up getting bailed to Odyssey House on March 1, 2018 and I went back with this unexplainable determination, commitment and ambition just to finish this program,” he said.

“I ended up doing three years there, and I ended up graduating from there.

“The first of March next year I will be seven years clean, and I’m working now, I’ve got all my children back in my life and I’ve got that respect back in the community, I’m looked up to and trusted again.”

Jarvis now works as an engagement project officer with the First People’s Assembly of Victoria for almost two years, after studying Alcohol and Other Drugs at Swinburne University.

In the Assembly, he became involved with the Yoorrook Justice Commission, where he shared his full story.

“It really brought up a lot for me,” he said.

“It was hard at times, but it was powerful too. Because there’s a lot of people out there that experience similar to what I experienced, and I wanted to encourage them from my story.”

To hear his full story, head to yoorrookjusticecommission.org.au/video/jarvis-tells-his-story/ or scan the QR code.

cancer battler sums it up

Kellie Salter never found a lump.

The one thing they always say to check your breasts for signs of breast cancer is a lump.

But Kellie never had one.

“I was sitting on the couch having a beer, wearing a singlet top, and I noticed a dent in my breast,” she said.

“I went to the GP, and she said she couldn’t feel anything, so I went and had scans, and did a biopsy right there and then.”

Kellie was diagnosed with breast cancer at the start of 2020.

The diagnosis came as a shock to her and her family.

“I went on my own (to get my results). I didn’t know what I was thinking, I just thought, no it’s gonna be nothing,” she said.

Unfortunately for Kellie and her family, her diagnosis wasn’t the only one.

“Three weeks after I got diagnosed, we found out that my Mum had ovarian cancer, and she was stage four,” she said.

“My sister basically took over mum’s care, and dad looked after me and we did chemo together.”

Over the next few months, they fought together, going through treatments together at GV Health, being there for every reaction they had.

Kellie’s treatment finished up in January 2021, after going through chemotherapy and radiation to kill the cancer. Sadly for her mum, her cancer was too far gone.

“Mum passed away in May 2021,” Kellie said.

Following her mum’s diagnosis and passing, Kellie was determined to have her ovaries removed.

“They were reluctant to have my ovaries out at the time back then,” she said.

“And then this year, I spoke to the oncologist again, just with mum’s history, I wanted my ovaries gone.

“I just didn’t want to think about anything else, and I was not really doing any active treatment, so I had my ovaries out in May this year.”

With her treatment finished and still cancer free, life has been returning to normal for Kellie.

The Numurkah mum is back working, and spends her days chaperoning her two teenage kids around to their many sporting commitments.

But the battle never stops.

“I’ve got an alarm that goes off every morning to take a tablet every day, I have to take it at the same time every day, so it’s a little reminder that you’re still battling,” Kellie said.

Kellie has to be on that tablet for 10 years.

“A friend of mine, Louise Shannon, she was diagnosed with breast cancer a year after me, and we’ve had some conversations about how I really struggled to say the words breast cancer survivor,” she said.

“So we came up with breast cancer battlers.

cancer battlers, it just sits a little better because I’m not done yet.

“I’m not finished, like that alarm still goes off, I have an appointment on the calendar, usually every three or four months, and then you’re back at your 12-month review with breast cancer screening.

“You’re always battling.”

To help ladies like Kellie, the Ladies Who Lunch event will return to Shepparton this October, to raise funds for women’s oncology services in the Goulburn Valley, with all money donated locally to support women going through cancer treatment in the Greater Shepparton region.

“I feel like if I say survivor, or I survived, something bad will happen, I don’t know why.

“Whereas if I say I’m just battling along, we’re just breast

Save the date for Sunday, October 27, and purchase your ticket on the GV Health Foundation website.

SELLING SEASON IS

STORY: GEORGIA TACEY PHOTOGRAPHY: RECHELLE ZAMMIT

Beats by Betty & Don

THE

DAYS ARE GETTING

LONGER, AND THE AIR IS GETTING WARMER, SO IT’S THE PERFECT EXCUSE TO SPEND SOME TIME OUTSIDE.

Whether you’re planning a spring BBQ with your family, or a pool party with friends, we crafted the perfect playlist that will appeal to everyone to soundtrack your gathering.

Spanning genres, decades and vibes, these tunes will be sure to get the party going.

1. Electric Feel - MGMT

2. Naive - The Kooks

3. Dare - Gorillaz

4. Love Song - Sara Bareilles

5. Walking on a Dream - Empire of the Sun

6. Untouched - The Veronicas

7. Espresso - Sabrina Carpenter

8. Slide - Calvin Harris, Frank Ocean, Migos

9. Out of Touch - Daryl Hall & John Oates

10. Silver Springs - Fleetwood Mac

11. Enjoy the Silence - Depeche Mode

12. Fade Into You - Mazzy Star

13. Saturn - SZA

14. Take Me Out - Franz Ferdinard

15. Hot To Go - Chappell Roan

16. How You Remind Me - Nickelback

17. Island in the Sun - Weezer

18. The Adults are Talking - The Strokes

19. The Less I Know the Better - Tame Impala

20. Meet Me Halfway - Black Eyed Peas

21. Sweet Caroline - Neil Diamond

22. September - Earth, Wind & Fire

23. Come As You Are - Nirvana

24. Dog Days are Over - Florence + The Machine

25. Birds of a Feather - Billie Eilish

Movie night magic

LOOKING FOR YOUR NEXT WATCH? GET READY TO RELIVE A CLASSIC OR DISCOVER A NEW FAVOURITE FROM THE BETTY & DON TEAM’S SELECTION OF FLICKS.

Perfect for your next movie night, snuggle up with a loved one and take your pick from our list.

BETTY & DON MAGAZINE

Mexican Mac ‘n’ cheese

FUN FUSION COOKING TO MEX THINGS UP. PREPARE TO INDULGE IN THE FLAVOURS OF MEXICO WITH THIS DELICIOUS MAC ‘N’ CHEESE FUSION OF CHEESY PERFECT ITALIANO PERFECT MEXICAN CHEESE.

Ingredients:

1½ cups (225g) macaroni

1 tbsp vegetable oil

1 (130g) mild chorizo, sliced

60g butter

¼ cup plain flour

2 tsp chipotle seasoning

¾ tsp onion powder

¾ tsp garlic powder

2½ cups milk

2 tsp chipotle hot sauce (optional)

2¼ cups (270g) Perfect Italiano Perfect Mexican cheese

Salt and pepper, to taste

250g cherry tomatoes, halved

175g bag original corn chips

Pico de gallo and chopped coriander, to serve

Method:

Preheat oven to 220°C/200°C fan-forced.

Cook macaroni in a large saucepan of boiling water until tender. Drain and set aside.

Heat a large, deep 12 cup (3 litre) capacity heatproof/ovenproof skillet or pan over medium heat. Add oil, then chorizo and cook, stirring for 3 minutes until lightly golden. Remove and set aside.

To make Mexican cheese sauce; melt butter in the same hot pan. Add combined flour, chipotle seasoning, onion and garlic powder. Cook, stirring for 1 minute. Remove pan from the heat.

Tips

To make pico de gallo – Combine 4 vine ripe tomatoes (seeded and finely chopped), 1 fresh jalapeno (very finely chopped), ½ small red onion (very finely chopped), 2 tablespoons roughly chopped coriander, 1 lime, juiced, salt to taste.

Add 2 cups shredded barbecue chicken to white sauce and macaroni mixture for a more substantial meal.

• This quantity of chipotle seasoning and hot sauce is for a mild version, add an extra teaspoon of chipotle seasoning and hot sauce for more chilli bite.

Gradually add milk, whisking constantly until all combined and smooth. Return to the heat and cook, whisking occasionally for six minutes until thick.

Remove from the heat. Add chipotle hot sauce and 1 cup of Perfect Italiano Perfect Mexican cheese and stir until combined. Season with salt and pepper.

Stir in chorizo and macaroni. Top with tomatoes and pile some of the corn chips on top. Sprinkle with remaining cheese. Bake for 15 minutes or until cheese is golden. Sprinkle with pico de gallo (see tips) and coriander. Serve with remaining corn chips.

Source: Perfect Italiano

Chipotle seasoning is available in the spice section of supermarkets and hot sauce from the Mexican section.

• Remove and discard corn chips from the top and store leftover Mac ‘n’ Cheese in a container in the fridge for 2 days. Reheat in the microwave.

STORY: DJEMBE ARCHIBALD PHOTOGRAPHY: MEGAN FISHER

dale’s back in the spotlight

THEY SAY THE WHOLE WORLD’S A STAGE, BUT THE STAGE BROUGHT DALE JANKE HIS WHOLE WORLD.

Dale Janke has fostered his love of theatre for longer than most, starting his time on the stage as a wee primary school lad.

Much like Audrey II of Little Shop of Horrors, he kept it growing, feeding his love of the theatrical space.

That was until he left high school and moved up to Sydney.

“But then I came back after many years and did a show with Turaton, a theatre restaurant called Murder at the Music Hall,” Dale said.

“And surprisingly enough, Helen was the lead lady, and I was the leading man, so that’s where that relationship started.”

Helen and Dale have been married for 23 years and have two boys together, a powerhouse couple in local theatre lore.

Even as Helen directed shows for younger actors through Initial Stages, Dale would come and support the cast both in rehearsals and in the audience, solidifying their status as the stage’s favourite couple.

“We were in shows together, and we were just really good friends, so that was just very natural, just very comfortable,” he said.

“It was sort of enhanced by being love interests on stage and love interests off-stage.”

The on-stage part of their marriage would come to an end in 2024 with Helen being the director of Shepparton Theatre Arts Group’s production of Little Shop of Horrors and Dale cast as one of the lead characters, Mr Mushnik.

“I hadn't performed for about eight years and I thought, well, what a perfect opportunity to get back on, with Helen directing it would be a great way to do something together,” Dale said.

“I just think that, theatre is just what I love, I just really enjoy it.”

Dale ran into some health issues and said that as well as spending some more time with his wife, he has had a creative and active hobby.

“One of the reasons why I also got involved in the show was because I had to give away work because I've had back issues, and still continue to have these back issues, and so this has been a really great outlet,” he said.

“It's given me focus and more energy, I can exercise, that’s been the positive aspect as well, and Helen’s always got energy.

“That was really good and there was no awkwardness or anything, it was just friends on and off-stage.

“I’m just trying to sap that out of her and give it to me,” he said smiling to himself in the rehearsal space, surrounded by Audrey II plants and props.

If you were one of the Little Shop of Horrors audience members, count yourself lucky as you saw the long-awaited return of a local theatre loving legend to the spotlight.

STORY: KELLY CARMODY

A journey home

TINA MUKASA SHARES HER EMOTIONAL RETURN TO NYARUGUSU REFUGEE CAMP.

Tina Mukasa with her grandmother Mbanga Balongelwa in the Nyarugusu Refugee Camp in Tanzania. “I prayed and dreamed about this day for so long to meet my beloved grandmother, aunties, uncles and cousins in the Nyarugusu Refugee Camp.”

BETTY & DON MAGAZINE

Tina’s

Returning to a place once called home can stir deep emotions, connecting you to your roots and where the heart always feels a pull.

For 26-year-old Tina Mukasa, returning to the Nyarugusu Refugee Camp in Tanzania, where she once called home and lived as a refugee, was a profound reminder of how the heart can truly find its way back.

However, this trip was more than just a visit to her motherland; it was the realisation of a long-held dream from her teenage years and a life-changing journey taken this year alongside her twin sister, Neema, and brother, Monga.

Two decades had passed since Tina last set foot in Africa after arriving in Australia as a refugee at the age of eight, so this trip became an exciting opportunity to rediscover the land she had left behind.

High on her to do list was revisiting the place where her grandmother had raised her after her mother’s passing through war conflict, and the chance to once again feel her

grandmother’s loving embrace.

“We had been talking about doing a sibling trip back to Africa for years,” Tina said.

“But we felt it was important for everyone to share in that same spirit. It wasn’t just about me or my sister needing to go, we all needed to feel it together.

“It’s a long way from the life we’ve been blessed with here in Australia, and we all had to be ready to be able to truly embrace it, and really feel it.”

While the trio had tourist plans while in Africa, visiting family in the refugee camp and reconnecting with their grandmother, Mbanga Balongelwa, who helped raise six of the Mukasa children, was a top priority.

They drove three hours from Kigoma in Tanzania, near the borders of Burundi and the Democratic Republic of Congo, to the camp where many of their family members still reside, 20 years later, awaiting refugee status.

“We were only allowed to enter the border of the refugee

beautiful mother, Juliette Nesengya M’sema, who sadly passed during war conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo. This is the only photo Tina has of her mother.

Tina pictured with her father’s brothers inside the Nyarugusu Refugee Camp in Tanzania.

camp, and only allowed four hours with our family,” she said.

“It was quite a big process to make it all happen, but we didn’t give up. We even had to have interviews of why we were going to see them, which was difficult to comprehend, because family is family.

“It was an eye-opening experience. But the best part was seeing my grandma, just to see her and feel her, hear her. It was like a dream come true.

“I don’t remember what it’s like to have a mum, and it had been so long since I remembered what it was like to have a grandma so, to just be with her was so surreal. And seeing all my Dad’s brothers and their resemblance was amazing.”

Tina and her siblings brought many items into the refugee camp to give back to their loved ones, including food, necessities that are often taken for granted, and even money.

They enjoyed their time together immensely, but before they knew it, those four short hours were over, and emotional goodbyes began.

“

The first thing I did with my siblings and our friend while in Kenya was to embark on a road trip to try the traditional African tea Teagoni Tea Tour. We reconnected and shared stories with the farm owners. An interesting fact is that Kenya is the third tea exporter in the world.

— TINA MUKASA

Monga and Tina with their friend Aisha Fareed.

BETTY & DON MAGAZINE

The entry of the Nyarugusu Refugee Camp where Tina had not been in 20 years.

Immersed in Tanzania art and culture.

Tour time with the zebras in Tanzania.

Neema, Tina and Monga Mukasa enjoying some beach time in Tanzania.

BETTY & DON

— TINA MUKASA

“Going back to where our story started in the refugee camp was very emotional, and I did a lot of reflecting on how far we had come and how hard it must have been for my Dad, really struggling to help us survive and find a better life for us.

“When I was younger, the camp felt like it was a jail with fences, but I was young. This time, all these years later, it became obvious the fencing was to keep us all safe.

“It went so quick, and it was hard to say goodbye, but I am so grateful for the experience. It really made me appreciate what I have so much more.”

As Tina reflected on the experience with gratitude, she spoke of her determination to inspire others to take similar paths back to their roots, or alternatively, just book a flight and travel.

“Take nothing for granted, go back home, live your best possible life and travel – it’s so good for the soul,” she said.

“We saw a lot while we were home in Africa and I never knew it had so much beauty. It really shows you that you can’t always believe everything you hear and see.

“Being home and connecting with the culture and seeing the street markets, eating the delicious food, being around the breathtaking nature, the scenery, it was amazing.

“I felt like I was in a movie, and I felt like a tourist, except I felt like I was the same as everyone else. It was the best experience, and I feel so lucky to have experienced it.

“Life is too short; don’t wait for the perfect moment — create it, embrace it, and let it transform you.”

Deciphering generational slang

WANT TO KNOW WHAT EACH GENERATION IS SAYING? LEARN FIVE TERMS FROM GEN ALPHA ALL THE WAY UP TO BOOMERS.

Gen Alpha

2010-2024

Skibidi: Pronounced skee-bee-dee, it usually means that you’re asking if someone is evil or up to no good.

Rizz: An abbreviation of charisma, meaning style, charm or attractiveness.

Goated: The original acronym, G.O.A.T, meaning Greatest Of All Time, Gen Alpha has now turned it into a verb, so saying someone is goated means they are the greatest of all time.

Sigma male: This label refers to the type of person who is a ‘lone wolf’ who sets himself apart from the crowd.

Fanum tax: Emerging from social streaming platform Twitch, Fanum tax is ‘taxing’ your friends by taking their food.

Gen Z

1996-2010

Fam: A shortened form of family, and can be referred to as such or for friends.

Stan: Something you’re a fan of, usually a celebrity you obsess over.

W or L: Meaning winning or losing, in shortened form.

Ghosting: When dating someone, instead of telling them you’re ending the relationship you stop replying and communicating, disappearing from their life.

Cap: Means to lie. If you hear ‘no cap’ it means they are being truthful.

Millennial

1981-1996

Extra: Over the top and dramatic behaviour.

Receipts: Evidence of someone’s wrongdoings, usually in screenshot form.

Sus: Shortened form of suspicious, and can also mean shady.

Salty: Acting upset or bitter.

Basic: Something that is mainstream or popular.

Gen X

1965-1980

Dude: Can be used as a verb, a noun or an adjective, depending on context. Most commonly, it is used to refer to a friend.

Chill: Replacement word for relax.

Bummer: How to describe an upsetting situation.

Rad: Shortened form of radical, meaning something is awesome or very cool.

Gnarly: Meaning intense, extreme or very impressive.

Boomer

1946-1964

Dig it: Means you really like something.

Right on: How you would say you agree with something.

Groovy: Meaning cool.

Cool cat: Used to describe a cool person.

Peace out: How you would say goodbye to someone.

THE LADIES WHO LUNCH COMMITTEE WOULD LIKE TO THANK THEIR INCREDIBLE SPONSORS THAT HAVE HELPED RAISE MUCH NEEDED FUNDS FOR THE GV HEALTH ONCOLOGY UNIT SUPPORTING WOMEN GOING THROUGH CANCER TREATMENT.

Stephens Jewellers takes great pride in being a Platinum Priority Partner for the 2024 Ladies Who Lunch Event.

We wish to express our sincere appreciation to the women within our community for their unwavering support.

We enthusiastically look forward to maintaining this meaningful partnership in our shared goal of generating essential funds to underpin the important work of the local GV Health Foundation.

• Dr Sath Saranathan

• Dr Geoff Woodhouse

• Dr Raathika Raj

• Dr Tom Mackey

• Dr Karen Luu

• Dr Margaret Tran

• Dr Rutuja Nirale

• Dr Sirisha Kommidi

• Dr Natalie Dassanayake

• Dr Pree Kaur

• Ms Hayley Emmi

• Ms Renee Church

• Ms Hawrah Al Bendar

• Ms Aimee Brond ORAL HEALTH THERAPISTS

McKellars Picture Framing is thrilled to announce our partnership with acclaimed artist Gus Leunig, bringing his exclusive limited edition prints to the Goulburn Valley art community. Each print in this collection is a rare gem, limited to just 100 copies, and personally signed and numbered by Gus Leunig himself.

Gus Leunig is a renowned artist known for his distinctive style and captivating artworks that resonate with viewers on a deep and emotional level. His limited edition prints offer art enthusiasts a unique opportunity to own a piece of his vision and creativity, carefully crafted and curated for discerning collectors.

By partnering with McKellars Picture Framing, Gus Leunig ensures that each print is presented in a beautiful and high-quality frame that enhances its visual impact and preserves its integrity for

5821 2576 167 Nixon Street, Shepparton 5862 0300 2 Katamatite Road, Numurkah General and

VISITING SPECIALISTS

• Mr Kevin Spencer (Oral Surgeon)

• Dr Matt Filei (Endodontist)

years to come. Our expert framing services are designed to complement the artwork and provide a stunning display that will enrich any space.

We invite you to explore Gus Leunig’s limited edition prints at McKellars Picture Framing and discover the beauty and depth of his artistic vision. Whether you are a seasoned art collector or a passionate art lover, these prints are a musthave addition to your collection, offering a rare opportunity to own a piece of Gus Leunig’s legacy.

Don’t miss your chance to own a piece of art history with Gus Leunig’s limited edition prints, exclusively available at McKellars Picture Framing. Embrace the beauty, creativity, and emotion captured in each print, and bring a touch of artistic magic into your home or workspace.

www.gvdental.com.au

175 Corio Street, Shepparton, VIC 3630 Ph: (03) 5821 3201 |

Email: info@mckellarspictureframing.com.au Web: www.mckellarspictureframing.com.au

Sunglasses Expo

All sunglasses

20% off on the day

Join us in support of the GV Health Foundation and celebrate Spring in style. Our Expo will showcase over 500 models of sunglasses from the currents season of Gucci, YSL, Oroton, Tom Ford, Le Specs, Guess, Maui Jim, Ray Ban and more. Many of these sunglasses will be offered outside Melbourne for the first and only time.

Follow

WEDNESDAY OCTOBER 30th 10am–7pm at Graham Hill Eyecare 98 Maude Street, Shepparton Ph 5821 2811

Supporting the GV Health Foundation

ALL sunglasses will be 20% off on the day with 50% of proceeds donated to the GV Health Foundation to support local women undergoing cancer treatment.

BEST SKIN OF YOUR LIFE WITH Dr Fresh

With over 40 years medical and nursing experience, Dr Fresh Clinic is led by an experienced medical doctor

Dr Niki Talic

Dr Fresh Clinic is a medical facility focused on skin treatments, medical grade skin care and non invasive medical treatments.

Our treatments are tailored to each patients individual needs, where we address your concerns and formulate a treatment plan to suit your needs.

We use state of the art medical technology to address challenging skin conditions, signs of ageing and pigmentation. All of this occurs in a warm, welcoming environment where comfort and safety is our top priority.

Allow us to guide you in your journey to looking and feeling you best.

Our passion for helping patients look and feel great is re ected in all our services.

STORY: KELLY CARMODY

Art off to the moon

AS EARLY NEXT YEAR APPROACHES, SHEPPARTON ARTIST CHRISTINE BROERSEN WILL HAVE A UNIQUE CONNECTION TO THE MOON, WITH HER ARTWORK PREPARING FOR A HISTORIC JOURNEY THAT WILL PLACE A PIECE OF HER CREATIVITY ON THE LUNAR SURFACE.

Early next year, when gazing at the luminous moon in the night sky, Shepparton artist Christine Broersen will be able to say, “A part of me is on the moon”.

It might sound unbelievable, and even she acknowledges the surreal nature of it, but it’s true — a collection of her art right now is in preparation to make its way there.

Lunar Codex is the name of the ambitious project founded by Canadian physicist, artist and entrepreneur Samuel Peralta, and it’s a project that is being talked about all over the world.

Split across three launches, one of which has already landed, tens of thousands of works from a diverse group of artists from almost every country in the world have a reserved spot on SpaceX and United Launch Alliance Moon missions.

In short, it’s like a contemporary encoded format time capsule sending a collection of art, literature, music and other cultural artefacts to the moon aboard lunar landers that are scheduled as part of various space missions.

These landers are part of commercial missions supported by NASSA’s Artemis program and hope to create a lasting legacy of human culture on the moon.

“I don’t really understand the science behind it that well, but it’s really exciting,” Christine said.

“It’s mind-blowing that works can be decoded in this way and sent to the moon and withstand the harsh conditions of space.

“What a very clever global endeavour and I’m so thankful to Graeme Stevenson’s Put Some Colour In Your Life series that I was a part of in 2017 that has allowed me to be a part of the project.”

The Put Some Colour In Your Life series is an Australian TV show and online platform created by Graeme Stevenson in 2011.

The show focuses on showcasing artists from around the world, giving viewers an in-depth look at their creative processes, techniques and personal journeys.

The series, which Christine was a part of in season 15, aims to inspire and educate by bringing the art community closer together and making art more accessible to a broader audience.

Each episode typically features a different artist, who shares their approach to their medium — whether it be painting, sculpture or another form of visual art.

The show emphasises not only the technical aspects of creating art, but also the emotional and inspirational stories behind the artists’ works.

And now it’s been decoded for the Lunar Codex project and

is heading to the moon with Christine’s episode on board.

“Sadly, Graeme has now passed, but someone has taken over the series. He was such a wonderful man, and being a part of it was incredible,” she said.

“I must admit, though, leading up to the day of filming, I was terrified. I don’t even like my photo being taken, so to be filmed was quite nerve-racking.

“But I did it for my grandkids. I’ve only got one, but if I ever have others that make their way to planet earth, I could be dead, so I did it for them and my family and nothing else.

“I’ve never watched it all the way through because I can’t stand the sound of my own voice, but I never would have dreamed of doing something like it, and I am so glad I did.”

Looking at Christine’s art, you’d think you were seeing a photograph.

Specialising in pastels and painting with a focus on still life and portraits, realism has been calling, and her work is nothing short of stunning.

Renowned for capturing the subtleties of light, shadow, see-through elements, vibrant colours and intricate details that display wondrous depth, each piece is a beautiful representation of her talent and showcases her creativity.

At 70, after a 30-year career in the arts with a plethora of prestigious awards to her name, Christine is now starting to

look at semi-retirement and making a bit more time for travel.

However, she intends to create art until she can no longer hold a pastel or paintbrush in her hand, and said she would try with her teeth if it had to come to it.

Art continues to bring her joy, and as of next year, no matter where her travels take her, one thing will remain constant.

Most nights, she’ll be looking up into the sky — toward the moon.

“I think about how lucky everyone is to be on this ride, and some people don’t even realise they’re on it,” Christine said.

“Literature from Shakespeare and Roald Dahl, music from the Beatles and Rolling Stones, and so many figures from world history — it’s all up there forever. It’s wonderful.

“What’s incredible is that it represents the whole world, not just famous people.

“Everyday people like me, who simply love art, are up there too. It’s not just for those who made it on earth; we get to go to the moon too.

“I’ll always have that funny feeling every time I look at the moon, like a special connection, knowing there’s a piece of me up there and I am a part of a special lasting legacy from here on earth.”

BETTY