Betty magazine (issue 1) 180dpi by McPherson Media Group

betty magazine

WELCOME TO BETTY WORLD Mother’s Day hugs From babies to grandmothers — it’s always special

Long distance love From the heart of Africa

Women wear the boots Running into AFL history

Autumn tips for lips

APRIL 2017 / ISSUE 1

NEFF NOW AVAILABLE AT HARVEY NORMAN SHEPPARTON

COME IN STORE NOW TO SEE THE NEFF RANGE ON DISPLAY AND FIND OUT ABOUT MORE GREAT FEATURES.

CIRCO THERM® - SIMULTANEOUS COOKING ON MULTIPLE LEVELS. With your NEFF oven you can cook, roast and bake completely different dishes simultaneously on up to four levels. Thanks to the CircoTherm® hot air system you can create a whole menu of completely different dishes without flavours intermingling. The roast meat will taste like roast meat and the muffins will taste like muffins.

SHEPPARTON Riverside Plaza 8025 Goulburn Valley Highway, Kialla CALL 5820 2900 OR VISIT HARVEYNORMAN.COM.AU

Beautiful jewellery...

Pr o , M Sal gres ay e st siv 1 – art e Sa s t, M ay 2

“

just because

Life is full of beautiful moments waiting for you to enjoy them – anon

Three Generations of Passion, Perfection and Love.

Est. 1929 Shepparton (03) 5821 4679 | Benalla (03) 5762 6150 | purdeys.com.au

Cover: Annie Young is a Shepparton mother of three. She is wearing clothes by Traffic from the Maude St Mall. More fashion on pages 47 to 61. Photos: Prue Peters Photography.

Sales manager Leesa Haeusler 5820 3188 leesa.haeusler@sheppnews.com.au

Writers Jessica Ball, Alana Christensen, Emma Carinci, Taylah Burrows Sub-editors Wendy Russell, Sandy Lloyd, Jenny Chapman Editorial design Brendan Cain Graphic designers Bella Considine, Adele Dhillon, Alysha Bathman Image editor Lance Simpson Photographers Julie Mercer, Holly Curtis, Ray Sizer

Published by Shepparton News PO Box 204, Shepparton, Victoria 3632 (03) 5820 3183 magazines@sheppnews.com.au BETT Y | April 2017 | Issue 1

Betty magazine is published by Shepparton Newspapers Pty Ltd (ABN 004-406-946) at the registered office, Goulburn Valley Hwy, Kialla 3630.

CONTENTS Mother’s Day special 6 8 13 16 20 24 30

McPherson family matriarch Finding a forever home Young motherhood Mother’s Day gift ideas Moments in motherhood Tales from yesteryear Spoil mum on Mother’s Day

Breastfeeding 33 34 35 35 35

Taking it one feed at a time Five babies, five experiences Learning to breastfeed History of support When it doesn’t work out

Child care

38 Whole family experience 40 Child-led learning 45 Home-based atmosphere

betty e magazin

Fashion & beauty

47 Style trends translated 60 Seasonal lip shades 61 Elegant eyeshadows

Career changes 64 66 68 69

Forging a career after children Never too late for change Child’s-play to career Daydream to day job

Inspiring stories 72 76 80 84

Obstacles to love Loss and courage Girl power tackles footy Success at 17

Food & wine

86 Local wine reviews 88 Tantalising recipes 90 Giveaways

New mobile app free with Google Play and App Store Search ‘Betty magazine’ on the App Store or on Google Play

The Ask The Expert, shopping pages, photoshoots, and entertaining pages were made possible through a commercial collaboration between participating businesses and the Shepparton News team.

Welcome

ello, and welcome to Betty — the new woman you’ve always known. Betty loves chocolate cake and Earl Grey tea for a morning treat. She also looks forward to red wine and warm chats with friends. Sometimes she wears sneakers and leggings and goes running in the morning. You might also catch her in a bright floral dress having coffee down the street. She treasures babies and sewing patterns, Snapchats and family stories, kinky boots and gardening, tattoos and anything new. You might call her a crafty smartypants, a thinking chatterbox, or just a chatterbox. Or perhaps she’s a new sort of crossgenerational woman. But that’s not really true. She’s actually been around forever — a dreamer, mother, grandmother. A little bit young, and a little bit old. Betty is a bit of all these things. She’s little bit you and a little bit me — but mostly she’s a glorious everywoman. So let’s start at the beginning — motherhood. The many hats worn by a mother never cease to amaze me. I have observed with admiration, my whole life, my own mother effortlessly breezing from hat to hat — taking each new task and challenge in her stride. I have long believed her to be wonder-woman; somehow balancing marriage, motherhood, full-time work, housework, hobbies and further education. In this first edition of Betty magazine we cherish the world’s strongest and most influential women: mothers. We look at mothers of all types — from foster mothers to young mothers to mothers from the 1930s and 40s. Mothers share their favourite pastimes with their children and discuss what Mother’s Day means to them — and there are some gorgeous gift ideas to help you spoil your own mother. We also feature some memoirs from McPherson Media Group matriarch Betty (Bet) McPherson — a warmhearted and inspirational woman after whom we have named this magazine. She talks about growing up in Orrvale in the Depression era. To all the mums out there, I wish you the happiest of Mother’s Days — and to all our readers, don’t forget to tell your mum she is your hero. – From the team at Betty magazine BETT Y | April 2017 | Issue 1

Prof ile

BETT Y | April 2017 | Issue 1

Memoirs from the McPherson family matriarch Bet McPherson is the much-loved matriarch of the McPherson family, have published The News for almost 130 years. Here she tells granddaughter Ella — one of the fifth generation — about growing up in Orrvale in the Depression era (and why she prefers Bet to Betty).

ou know, they only ever called me Betty if I was in trouble! I’ve been Bet all my life — never Elizabeth; my father found it too hard to say. Life was harder for women back then. My mother came from Ballarat and she never really got used to the irrigation area and the weather up here. She was a stern mum but, thinking back on it she had a hard life. Can you imagine five kids and a husband, cooking on a wood-fired stove, doing all the washing in a copper? We had a wire strung up on props for a washing line — sometimes if it was really windy they’d come down and all that washing would land in the dirt. You’d be pretty wild, having to wash it all again. Not like now, where you can just put it in the washer and think nothing about it. So she managed all of that. She was a fine cook and made a wonderful ginger beer for us. She did the most beautiful work with sewing, crochet and needlework, making all our dresses on the treadle sewing machine. She could always do it better than we could. But she taught us how to sew, knit and mend and during World War II we knitted garments and sent parcels off to the soldiers. My father was a gentle soul; he’d been in the Great War, as had my uncle. Uncle Gordon died at the Somme, and Dad was wounded twice over there. They just patched them up and sent them back in, you know. When he came home he never talked about it at all, but he wasn’t like some of the men, with shell shock — they were just never the same, it was very sad. Dad seemed to manage — in fact he signed up when the second war came but he must have been too old. He was a kind man; he’d always give me a penny if I asked him.

We had an orchard out at Orrvale, though for a time Dad got a manager on the orchard and we moved to Numurkah to run a fruit shop and I went to school there for a while. It never really worked out so we moved back again. We used to ride our bicycles into Shepparton all the time — to get to a dance, you’d ride the six miles in, dance up a storm and ride back again. It could be scary at night so you’d pedal as fast as you could. Lord it used to make you tired but it’s just what we did then. I tell you though, riding in a skirt was always a trick — if the wind blew you had to choose between holding onto your skirt or your hat … I went to Orrvale Primary School. It was beaut to be there a few years ago for the school’s centenary, my word it’s changed a lot since I was there. There have been three Elizabeth Pottengers to go through that school and four of my grandchildren also went there, so it’s nice to have had that tradition. Then I went to Sacred Heart: the nuns were strict but I have happy memories of the school. After school I would usually ride out to the Shepp East store to collect the mail for us and a few other families, then drop it off in their mail boxes on the way to my place. Sir John McDonald was one of them, I recall. There were a lot of poor people about then, it was during the Depression. They were real swagmen, they liked to keep moving about. We never had any trouble with them — they just wanted a place to shelter and find a bit of work. They used to help out, chopping the wood and doing odd jobs around the place for a little money or a meal, that sort of thing. We helped out neighbours a lot and there were always people coming to stay — when the McKays down the road

had a baby all the other kids came to live with us for a while. There was a giant gum tree near our house, that’s where they always camped. The council wanted to cut down that tree to put in the electricity but my mother wouldn’t let them — she was an early environmentalist you know! It held up everyone in the road getting electricity, and weren’t they wild about it. You can understand why! In the end they brought the lines through the orchards from the rear rather than chop the tree down. We weren’t very popular, but my mother just loved that tree. We always thought we were pretty lucky. We used to get taken on holidays, all the way to East Gippsland in the back of the truck. We’d cover ourselves in a blanket — we’d get up at 1.30 am and head off because it would get so hot back there later on. Even now the heat doesn’t bother me too much, I’m just used to it. We had a lot of fun though growing up. Even though we had to pull our weight, lugging water in buckets from the channel up to the house and helping around the house and on the orchard; we enjoyed ourselves. We spent our summer evenings swimming in the channel, scraping the leeches off with our fingernails and catching yabbies. I’m 92 now and I try to keep up with everything, it’s hard to keep up with all the things the grandkids do, they’re all so clever. But I keep trying and I’m on the computer all the time — more than I should be, it keeps me up late! Things have changed so much but I do what I can. I get on Skype and those things to stay in touch with the great-grandkids overseas and they tell me I’m pretty good with all the technology. Not bad for an old girl anyway!  BETT Y | April 2017 | Issue 1

Prof ile

Finding a forever family Cuddling up to the woman he calls “Mummy”, a cheeky two-year-old happily blows raspberries and plays with his favourite Peppa Pig toy. Opening up her heart and her home, Mooroopna’s Wendy Dow has dedicated her life to fostering children. By Jessica Ball Photos: Julie Mercer

Wendy Dow (centre) with her beloved Broady (left) and Blake (right).

he pitter patter of little feet is a familiar sound in Wendy Dow’s household. In the past 27 years, more than 300 children have called her place home — some only for a night, others for more than a decade. Ever since she was a child, Wendy knew foster care was her calling. “It really is my passion in life. It always has been,” she said. “I just knew it was out there, I knew there was a need for children to be looked after. “We get lots of satisfaction to be able to help the kids, to be able to guide them and make a difference in their lives.” Wendy has four children of her own and her family has selflessly welcomed three permanent care children with open arms. Now 21, Brittany came into their lives as a baby, while 13 years ago three-yearold Broady and two-year-old Blake stole their hearts. When the time came for these children to go into permanent care, Wendy said she simply could not part with them as they had become part of the family — so instead she applied to become their legal guardian. “This is their forever home, this is their forever family,” she said. “They’re all close to our own children and they’re all considered brothers and sisters — there’s no difference between any of them. “They (Broady and Blake) do keep in contact with their biological family, which is good because they need to know where they’ve come from and they need to know about their family.” Last year, with the older children having moved out of home, Wendy decided to take on another long-term foster child. He is adored by his teenage brothers and Wendy said it was heartwarming to watch the bundle of joy grow into a charming toddler. “We’ve had him for 12 months, so of course we’ve seen lots of developments and changes and he’s really growing up,” she said. “He’s two years old now. He’s talking

BETT Y | April 2017 | Issue 1

and he started walking when he was with us. “It’s great to see kids develop and go on to bigger and better things and just be happy.” With a mountain of toys and walls decorated with beaming family photos, the Dows’ inviting home is a safe place. No matter what is going on in a child’s life, Wendy said the most important thing was to ensure they felt secure. “We hope that we provide some stability for them so they’re not moving around from placement to placement,” she said. “We have a play group that we go to, which is great for the kids to be able to socialise. We maintain their schooling and hope to improve their schooling so they don’t miss out on anything, and lots of sporting activities.” Each child and their reason for being in care is different and Wendy said it was all about keeping it normal. “Some come in on a voluntary basis, some are removed by the Department of Human Services,” she said. “If they have been statutorily removed it can be a bit challenging because sometimes they don’t want to be here. “They want to be home with their mum and dad, which is understandable, but we just try and make it as comfortable for them as possible.

“The younger children don’t really understand why they’ve been removed. It’s quite difficult for them. “We do lots of talking and we always have mealtime together. “Sometimes it’s challenging but that’s all part and parcel of being a family and the rewards far outweigh the challenges.” With a lack of foster carers and more and more children in need, Wendy urges others to make a difference in a young person’s life. “We’re really desperate at the moment for foster carers,” she said. “There’s always a need and the need has gotten bigger. “Times are tough now for families financially and drugs and alcohol and mental health are huge issues. “You can be single, partnered, work or not work — there’s lots of different avenues for foster carers. “Some only do one weekend a month. Anything that people can do is a help.” 

BETT Y | April 2017 | Issue 1

ASK THE EXPERTS

Estate planning for life Losing a loved one is always difficult but it is made even harder when a grieving partner is faced with dealing with the finances for the very first time.

When a client of Metzke + Allen passed away, his wife was lost. Her husband had always taken care of the money and insurances, and she simply didn’t know what to do, where to start or even where to find important documents. Metzke + Allen was able to help. Her story is not dissimilar to the situation many other women find themselves in after the death of their other half. This experience triggered Metzke + Allen to establish estate planning educational workshops designed to educate people on the four-stage process. The initial workshop covers the

potential issues and considerations when creating an estate plan. Stage two is an online questionnaire that determines your priorities with regard to children, assets, super, and money (for example) — all the things that make up your estate. Information matters and, although it’s time-consuming, step three involves the creation of a document recording all crucial information. This includes personal details, professional advisers, organisations, insurance details, details of assets and debts, structures, those responsible for actioning the plan and where all

PROTECT YOUR FAMILY WITH

THE RIGHT ESTATE PLAN 10

BETT Y | April 2017 | Issue 1

documents are located. The final and most important step is creating a crisis management plan which is then stored with Metzke + Allen. The plan sets out to your family members who they need to contact, what they need to know, questions they need to ask, details of assets and debts and responsibilities. Estate planning educational workshops are run monthly on a Thursday morning for two hours at the Metzke + Allen offices. For more information phone Elicia Thomson on 5822 8900 or email ethomson@metzkeallen.com.au

You’ve raised your children and watched them grow. You’ve also built a business, set up trusts for your family and created your own self-managed super fund for you and your family. You’ve worked hard to provide everything possible for your family.

Have you ever thought though, what will happen when you are no longer here? Who is going to protect them and the ﬁnancial structure you’ve put in place? Ensure that your family and your assets are well protected.

38-40 Welsford Street, Shepparton | 5822 8900 www.metzkeallen.com.au

Do you need a financial adviser? Step one Before you consider if you need a financial adviser, you need to first understand what they can do for you. A financial adviser can assist you to: 1. Set and achieve your financial goals; 2. Become financially secure; 3. Protect your assets, income and family; 4. Become debt-free;

5. Get a better work-life balance; 6. Make the most of your self-managed super fund; 7. Invest in your children’s future;

8. Retire in comfort; 9. Plan for aged care.

Step two Understand why you should get advice. It’s never too early or too late to seek financial advice. No matter what your stage of life is, there are ways a financial adviser can help you to get closer to your goals.

YOU MAY BE:

A FINANCIAL ADVISER CAN HELP WITH:

30s

Getting married; Starting a family; Buying a house; Starting a business.

Short-term and long-term ﬁnancial goals; Managing debt; Making the most of pay increases and bonuses; Saving for education or holidays; Life and income protection insurance; Strategies to grow your super and investments; Drawing up wills and estate planning.

40s

Paying off a home loan; Paying for your children’s education; Buying an investment property; Receiving an inheritance.

Managing debt; Maximising your super; Tax-effective strategies to make the most of your income; Building your existing investment portfolio; Life and income protection insurance; Creating a plan to support your children and family; Drawing up wills and estate planning.

50s

Planning for retirement; Working less; Paying off your home loan; Travelling; Renovating.

Transitioning from work to retirement; Reducing and managing debt; Maximising your super; Building and adjusting your investment portfolio; Accessing available government beneﬁts; Saving for children or grandchildren; Drawing up wills and estate planning.

60s

Travelling more; Getting ready for retirement; Downsizing your home.

Maximising your super; Transitioning into retirement; Accessing available government beneﬁts; Sharing money with your children or grandchildren; Drawing up wills and estate planning.

70s

Starting new hobbies; Travelling; Preparing an inheritance for your children; Moving into a retirement home.

Maximising income in retirement; Accessing pensions and social security; Investing in strategies to provide you with retirement income; Providing aged-care advice; Drawing up wills and estate planning.

Step three Book a free initial consultation with a Metzke + Allen financial adviser to go over your situation and to start working towards your financial goals. BETT Y | April 2017 | Issue 1

At Choices Flooring Shepparton we know good interior decorating starts

from the floor up

product featured

Serenity - Eden â&#x20AC;˘ Colour Featured: Shangri-La

only available at Choices Flooring Shepparton 186 High Street, Shepparton â&#x20AC;˘ 5822 2777 choicesflooring.com.au

Prof ile

New life brings change for the better By Alana Christensen

Photos: Julie Mercer

>>>

BETT Y | April 2017 | Issue 1

S T Y L E I T YO U R WAY W I T H N E W PA N D O R A R O S E

JEWELLERS

STEPHENS JEWELLERS SHEPPARTON Â· ECHUCA WWW.STEPHENSJEWELLERS.COM.AU

Young mother Ebony Nelson with her daughter Elizabeth.

>>>

urning 18 is a milestone, seen as the point in time when someone goes from being a child to an adult. For Ebony Nelson, this milestone was celebrated alongside another — becoming a mother. When the Ebony became pregnant with her daughter Elizabeth at 17, her life changed. It was an uncertain time for the Shepparton resident, but she said it changed her for the better. “I moved out when I was 16, I didn’t have a job, I didn’t have a licence, I wasn’t really caring about anything, I was going with the flow. I didn’t care,” she said. “[But] I’ve grown as a person because I’ve wanted her to grow up to be a good person.” The now 22-year-old has come a long way from the moment she first held her daughter, who she affectionately calls Eli. “I honestly love every moment of [being a mum], I mean it’s challenging for sure but it’s really rewarding as well,” Ebony said. “I’ve always loved being a mum and I

always wanted to be a mum when I was younger too.” There have been plenty of challenges for Ebony, who has been dealing with them since the beginning of her pregnancy. She spent much of Eli’s first year lacking the support system she needed. “It’s hard, I didn’t have much support when I first fell pregnant and when I first had her, and it was quite a struggle at the start,” Ebony said. “I moved out on my own when she was three months old, I was just 18. “So it’s not always been too easy … it wasn’t until she was nearly one that I started building a good support network. “Just asking people for advice was a good thing … I had no idea what I was in for.” Looking back, Ebony said it wasn’t just the lack of a support system she struggled with, but also post-natal depression. “I was battling depression before I had Eli, which I wasn’t aware of until after I

had her, really,” she said. “(Post-natal depression) definitely made it more difficult [to raise Eli] because I felt alone and like I didn’t have anyone around me. “It wasn’t like I wanted to cause her harm or anything, I just couldn’t deal with life, it was just too hard. Or that’s how it felt anyway, for quite a long time.” Despite her experience with post-natal depression, Ebony said having Eli to care for helped her keep going. “I think breastfeeding actually helped a lot because I had to keep myself hydrated, I had to make sure I was eating, I had to make sure I was sleeping, all those kinds of things to make sure I could nourish her,” she said. Ultimately, Ebony reached out for help and received it, something she encourages other young mothers to do, regardless of what the problem is. “Accept support,” she said. “Don’t let your ego get the better of you. Just talking about it helps.”  BETT Y | April 2017 | Issue 1

Spoil Mum

THIS MOTHERâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S DAY... 2

1 5

1. Blossom with Love Shop 2, Harris Scarfe Plaza bonsai plants, from $45. 2. SeneGence Julie Conti www.senegence.com.au/ JulesLipsAndBeauty SeneDerm SKINCARE SeneSerum -C $85, and Sense COSMETICS Translucid Powder & Bronzer $70. 3. Shop 221 Maude St Jump, wool felt hat in marble, $79.95. 4. Blizzards Jewellers Harris Scarfe Plaza Dansk Smykkekunst Sian necklace, 14ct rose gold and silver plated necklace (50 cm), $115. 5. Natures Studio tracey@naturesstudio.com.au doTERRA Essential Oils, Clarycalm, $41. 6. Traffik Boutique Fryers St Maxim navy lace top, $39.95. 7. Graham Hill Eyecare Maude St Face A Face Bocca Sixties 2, $638. 8. Sabac on High High St standard metal art, round leaf design, $112. 9. Harvey Norman Riverside Plaza Remington straightening brush, $99. 10. Arcade Fashions Maude St Mall Mossimo crop jumper, $69.95. 11. Pinch of Salt Fryers St Glasshouse Candles, 2017 Limited Edition FLORENCE

BETT Y | April 2017 | Issue 1

19 18

Wild Peonies & Lily, $44.95. 12. Pampens Boutique McLennan St Dri Cooper Bleached Out Blue jeans, $160. 13. Purdeys Jewellers 244 Wyndham St CANDID sterling silver oval 4 mm bangle $119, CANDID sterling silver venetian box chain $49, with assorted CANDID charms, from $69. 14. Focus Cards and Gifts Maude St Mall A little book of love for mum, $22.95, coin purse, $30.95. 15. Arcade Fashion Maude St Mall Condurra scarf, $49.95. 16. Focus Cards and Gifts Maude St Mall Equilibrium Double bangle, $57.50 each. 17. Billabong Garden Complex Numurkah Rd Cyclamen and pot, from $30. 18. Pinch of Salt Fryers St Seeker Finder Keeper sterling silver chain with charm, $39.95 each. 19. Pinch of Salt Fryers St Petals Australia Mother Range sterling silver chain with charm, $59.95 each. 20. Sels Gifts & DĂŠcor Fraser St Day bag also with cross body bag and make up purse included, $129.95. BETT Y | April 2017 | Issue 1

ASK THE EXPERTS

All connected: relationships and health Health is inextricably linked to the key relationships in our lives. When one member of a family is sick or suffering ongoing conditions, the flow on affect can be felt by all members — as they try to support and assist their loved ones through this. This is particularly the case with women, as the bonds between mother, daughter and granddaughter are very strong. Dr Elizabeth Kennedy, a GP at the University of Melbourne Shepparton Medical Centre, discusses how to achieve life-long health in families.

When you think about women’s health, do you usually think of our particular health needs at different stages in our lives? For example, younger women are particularly concerned about contraception issues, pregnancy and postnatal concerns, then menopause becomes important, followed by older women’s health. But women’s health issues also include mental health, preventative health such as immunisations, chronic disease such as heart disease, cancer and diabetes, and of course the frailty of old age, which affects all members of humanity. Women’s health is much broader than just the biological processes linked to our age. Actually, I think the World Health Organisation puts it really nicely, stating that: health is a state of complete physical, mental, and social wellbeing and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity. To me this means that our health encompasses many elements of our life, including our relationships. As a GP with a particular interest in women’s health, here’s what this means — of course, none of the people are real, but the situations are quite typical: Tanya, 26 years old I saw Tanya initially when she was a teenager. Tanya had just broken up from her first boyfriend and was worried she could be pregnant. Her pregnancy test was negative

and I also tested her for sexually transmitted diseases as she told me he had been unfaithful. She decided that from now on she was going to be protected and asked me to fit the Implanon — an implant in the arm which prevents pregnancy for 3 years. I didn’t see Tanya for some time after this and was pleased to see her again in her first pregnancy. She had moved to another town, met the lovely man who is now her husband and got the Implanon removed. Her pregnancy went well but Tanya developed postnatal depression after her first baby. She was supported back to health by her mum Catherine. Today Tanya has two children, and she did not suffer any further problems with her second. She now is using a Mirena (a device placed in the uterus, which lasts for 5 years) for contraception as she has decided her family is complete …for now. Catherine, 54 years old I have been seeing Catherine for menopausal problems over the past two years. Catherine is matriarch of a large close family and she supports her children and her parents as well as working for many community causes. She was dismayed when she became menopausal as she could not sleep and felt forgetful

Dr. Munis Letchumanan

Dr. Derek Wooff Dr. Rachel McDonald

Dr. Edmund Siauw Dr. Elizabeth Kennedy

Dr. Alwin Hoelzl

Dr. Gwen Liow

Dr. Robert Campbell

Dr. Jon Teo

Dr. Jane Gall

Dr. Lwin Maung

We understand that getting an appointment with a doctor who knows you, when you need it, and when it suits you is important. To better meet your needs, we have recently increased the number of doctors. We have also set up “buddy teams” to ensure that you will be seen in a timely way by your GP or a doctor who works closely with your usual GP.

and confused. After discussion, Catherine started on hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and has become much like her old self. HRT is not for everyone but it helped Catherine to feel well again. Grace, 86 years old Catherine’s mother and Tanya’s grandmother Grace is now 86 years old and has been suffering from increasing frailty. Grace has been falling a lot and stumbles when she goes out. She is starting to lose her memory and becomes confused. Catherine is extremely worried by all these health problems, but especially now she has noticed that Grace is becoming incontinent and cannot get to the toilet in time. I asked Catherine to bring her mum to see me and we looked at her medication and checked

Dr Elizabeth Kennedy is a GP at the University of Melbourne Shepparton Medical Centre.

Dr Sanjeewa Hewa

her urine. We were able to treat an infection and cut down some of her other medication which reduced her confusion and helped Grace to retain some independence. The whole family were therefore able to relax and live more easily. Women’s Health issues affect the whole of life and can be treated in many different ways with information, discussion and medication. Always remember: Your health is important to you and others — so please do discuss any concerns with your general practice team. Find out more about the practice on www.shepmed.unimelb.edu.au and www.facebook.com/shepmed.

Be in touch. We’ve moved with the times! To make an appointment online, go to our website www.shepmed.unimelb.edu.au. Alternatively, call our reception team on 5823 3100. To stay up to date with opening times, new doctors, or initiatives, like our Facebook page www.facebook.com/shepmed.

Monday:

8.30 am to 7.30 pm

Shepparton Medical Centre

Tuesday – Friday:

8.00 am to 5.30 pm

49 Graham Street, opposite Goulburn Valley Health

Mother’s Day

another in long Stories and photos by Alana Christensen

hile 364 days of the year are dedicated to her boys and their lives, Mother’s Day is a day that is just for Jolene Shay. The Shepparton mother of two – Sion, 15 months and Joseph, six – said she was looking forward to a relaxed day at home. “I’m happy, because I’m really fortunate to be a mum and it makes me happy,” she said. But the day is one that acts as a reminder of the distance between Jolene and her own mother, who lives overseas. “It’s always a bit bittersweet,” she said. “I really enjoy being a mum, but having my mum so far away is always a little bit sad. But I suppose it’s just a nice reminder that I have a mum.” Jolene said her two boys keep her busy with their playful ways. The energetic pair loves to spend time outdoors, whether they’re kicking a ball or spending a day at the park and cycling around the block. Over the past year Jolene said she’d enjoyed experiencing the same milestones Joseph had gone through all over again, this time with Sion, and witnessing how each of the boys developed into their own person. “Because I’ve got five years between my boys, there’s a bit of a gap and watching them reach all the milestones and growing up, that’s pretty great,” she said. “[I love] that unconditional love that you give and receive.”

Jolene Shay and son Sion, 15 months, of Shepparton.

BETT Y | April 2017 | Issue 1

g line of happy days The importance of Mothers’ Day

Relaxation, thoughtful presents, breakfast in bed and mini adventures are just some of the ways local families will be celebrating Mother’s Day. Mothers from the Kids Connection Playgroup in Shepparton shared their thoughts on what the day means to them.

JESSICA SABRI, Shepparton

Mother to Lily, 3 (pictured), Noah, 6, and Addison, 5 What are you doing for Mother’s Day? No plans yet. [Maybe] go out for lunch, get some flowers, get spoilt and hang out with the kids. What does Mother’s Day mean to you? Feeling important for the day, being appreciated for what we do as a mum, the hard work and being spoilt. What is your favourite pastime you like to share with your children? Going to the park, playing games, and hanging out at home by the pool.

SHERIE SHERIF, Shepparton Mother to Elisa, 2

What do you love the most about being a mum? Being able to see them growing up.

>>>

What are you doing for Mother’s Day? No plans as of yet, but hopefully just spend the day with my kids and my husband and go out somewhere. What does Mother’s Day mean to you? Mother’s Day to me means spending time with the kids and just enjoying each other’s company, having fun, having a laugh. What is your favourite pastime you like to share with your children? Singing, dancing, reading books and playing outside on the playground. They love it. What do you love the most about being a mum? The kisses and cuddles and the love. All the love. BETT B ETT Y | April 2017 | Issue 1

>>>

Mother’s Day

Your Local Library Come and experience what we have to offer... SALLY BENNETT, Shepparton Mother to Kaspar, 2½, (right) and Freya, 10 months

It’s all free! Visit now!

What are you doing for Mother’s Day? If I’m fit I’m probably going to do the Mother’s Day run, that’s my plan. Or I’d just like to have breakfast in bed or maybe go out for brunch, something relaxing. What does Mother’s Day mean to you? I think it’s a time of year where as a mother you can feel a bit appreciated and appreciate your own parents. What is your favourite pastime you like to share with your children? I like it when we go to the lake and he rides his bike and we walk around and play at the park. What do you love the most about being a mum? Everything actually. The cuddles, the smiles, all the different stages they go through, watching them learn.

Connect

Stay connected to the joy of reading and borrow from our range of eBooks, eMags and eAudiobooks. Access our eCollections from our website at gvlibraries.com.au. It’s free and available 24/7.

Create

Get creative at your library. Come along to a craft and cuppa morning, discover your family history, or play scrabble.

Learn

We support your life-long learning. Update your computer skills or learn a second language. Join us for conversational English. Bring the kids to one of our many rhyme and story times.

Meet

Our libraries have comfortable spaces for you to meet, connect to our Wi-Fi, do business and catch up with friends. Need a quiet space? Try the Skype booth at Shepparton or meeting rooms.

Share your favourite books as part of our Book Chat groups, or join one of our book clubs. Join the Friends of the Library, or volunteer with our Home Library Service.

1300 374 765 www.gvlibraries.com.au

BETT Y | April 2017 | Issue 1

BEC WHITE, Shepparton Mother to Harrison, 4, Oliver, 2, (right) and Isabella, 7 months What are you doing for Mother’s Day? Just spending time with family. We’ll just do some sort of an adventure with the family, maybe go somewhere. What does Mother’s Day mean to you? (It means) just spending the day with the kids and appreciating being a mum. What is your favourite pastime you like to share with your children? Playing and doing activities with them. I do something every day with them and just making sure they’re having fun every day. What do you love the most about being a mum? Seeing them grow up happy and healthy, and their personalities.

ASK THE EXPERTS

insuring number

When it comes to insurance, Plus 1 Group Financial Planner Emma Kiss said all too often women insure their partner as the breadwinner without considering themselves. “A woman’s role as a mother, home owner or worker — well, you just can’t put a value on it,” she said. “It’s important to insure yourself just as it’s important to insure your car or house.” The figures do not lie. The odds of having to claim on a home or contents insurance policy in your life are one in 13, while the chance of becoming disabled for more than three months before the age of 65 and having no income is one in three. For women, the odds of suffering from cancer before the age of 75 are one in four. Ms Kiss said this is why it is important for women to consider the importance of trauma cover, also known as critical illness insurance, to protect themselves. The most common claims include cancer, stroke and heart attack. “A sickness or disease like that can be a big financial burden and setback in life,” she said. “It will help cover loss of income, medical and travel expenses associated with the sickness or disease.” The sum insured is usually based on an income replacement of three years, plus an additional $50 000 for medical expenses. “Everyone’s circumstances are different; we can tailor our recommended insurance to best suit your financial needs.”

“

It’s important to insure yourself just as it’s important to insure your car or house.

”

Being diagnosed with a serious illness can be devastating for you and your loved ones, not only emotionally but financially too. Trauma insurance is there to help you cope with life’s curveballs. Call +1 Group today to discuss how trauma insurance can benefit you.

Emma Kiss at Plus 1 Group

27 Welsford Street Shepparton T: (03) 5833 3000

Memories

Memories of

MOTHER Some of the most influential lessons, dearest memories and funniest anecdotes come from mothers. Four local women from Shepparton Seniors Citizens’ Club pay homage to their mothers, by sharing some of their most cherished stories. By Alana Christensen

Eliza Ann Hall. Judith Zampaglione was raised by her grandmother Eliza Ann Hall, who she called “Mum”. Photo: Holly Curtis.

BETT Y | April 2017 | Issue 1

Grandmotherly love With a smile on her face, Judith Zampaglione casts her mind back to her childhood and recounts her favourite memories of the woman whose love and devotion turned her into the person she is today. Judith’s grandmother Eliza Ann Hall was already 73 years old by the time she was born, having lived a long and full life. Judith, now 74, said she had always thought of her grandmother as her mother. “I called her Mum up until I was a teenager,” she said. “I just knew her as my Mum. I didn’t know any better. I got to be a teenager and thought ‘well, she can’t be my mum, she’s too old’ and this and that. “I got teased about it (at school) and they used to say ‘oh well, you’re adopted, that’s not your mum’.” After her grandmother spent her later years raising her, Judith returned the

A true lady

When Sylvia Campbell, 76, talks about her mother the word ‘lady’ comes up again and again. As a sophisticated woman, Sylvia said her mother Ada never uttered a swear word and was always reserved — except for on one occasion. “I was about 15. We were up at the channel wall swimming and it was so hot and my mum was very private and a real lady. Next minute the dress was off and she was in the channel with us,” Sylvia said. “Her neighbour was absolutely horrified, and she had a ball! Just went in in her singlet and her knickers.” This moment was a rare break from the usually conservative lifestyle her mother

favour when Eliza Ann fell ill. “When I finished my schooling and did a year or so as a kindergarten teacher, I ended up looking after her and my dad. She passed away in my arms (at age 96),” she said. Judith still has many memories of Eliza Ann, from the meticulous dresses and smocks she made for Judith to wear to school to the delicious treats they cooked together in the kitchen. “She had very old-fashioned ways,” Judith said. “She used to tell me (as a young teenager)…when you hop on the bus (wearing a skirt) to ‘pull your dress down over your knees and put your knees together’.” Eliza Ann was an important and inspiring figure in Judith’s life. “She was a very determined woman … She was good to me.” 

Judith Zampaglione’s father Thomas and grandmother Eliza Ann Hall.

led, however Ada was also known for her great sense of humour. Ada was a loving mother who always had time to spend with her children, and had a real zest for life. “I remember my mum out in the yard skipping with us, and she was about 60 then,” she said. “She could skip better than we could.” Ada’s days were spent looking after the family, but when Saturday night came around, it was her night on the town. “Her main pleasure was going to the pictures on a Saturday night. (My siblings and I) took it in turns to stay home on Saturday night so that she could go to the pictures,” Sylvia said. “That was sort of her night out.”  >>>

Sylvia Campbell (right), 76, said her mother Ada Shard was a true lady. Photo: Holly Curtis

Sylvia Campbell’s mother Ada Shard (left) at 18 years old.

BETT Y | April 2017 | Issue 1

Memories

Memories of life in Scotland

Stories of Margaret Pell’s mother come thick and fast, her Scottish accent punctuated by a wry chuckle. Agnes Rhodes was, at times, a tough mother — but one with much love for her family and many life skills to pass on to them. Margaret, now 83, was born in Glasgow, but moved to Australia with her husband Stan — something her mother had always wanted to do, but never did. Her tough nature shone through on one particular evening according to Margaret. “When (my husband and I) started going out, we were out one night and I think it was about 1 am when we came home, and mum stood at the door. I was 42 mind you, and she stood at the door with her hands on her hips and said ‘well what time do you call this?’” Margaret laughs. “I said, ‘I’m 42 years old; I think I can come home when I’m ready’.” A woman of many talents, Margaret said her mother loved to sing and learnt to play the organ and piano, and was very gifted in the kitchen, something that was needed when war rations limited the ingredients the family had access to.

BETT Y | April 2017 | Issue 1

There was one particular dish that Margaret loved, her mother’s ‘torpedos’, a pastry filled with onions, potato, corned beef and gravy that she became known for. “People started asking her to make these torpedoes, so she’d make (a lot of them) …they used to come knocking on the door for them,” Margaret said. “She couldn’t do any more, there were too many people wanting them.”  Margaret Pell shared stories of her caring yet tough mother Agnes Rhodes. Photo: Holly Curtis.

Trail-blazing for women’s rights As a women’s rights advocate, Julia Hutton’s mother Sarah was a bit of a trail blazer. Julia carried the lessons learnt from her mother throughout her own life. “(My mother and grandmother) instilled within us to go for it, stand up for your rights and women to stand up for your rights,” she said. “It wasn’t an easy time for women to have this idea, and her (Sarah’s) mother was a midwife and she paid and built their first home — not her husband.” An avid golfer, Sarah had one unfortunate habit when out on the green — setting her golf cart on fire. “She used to smoke and she’d light the cigarette with the matches and she’d put the match back in the box and throw it in her golf buggy and of course it used to go up in smoke,” Julia said. It wasn’t the only occasion Julia found herself recounting a tale of her mother’s brushes with fires, after a trip back from Melbourne had an unexpected ending. “I said to Mum, ‘I can smell something burning’ and she said, ‘so can I’, so I look over and here’s this smoke coming out her wig,” Julia said. “She threw a cigarette out the window

and it came back in through the back window and landed in her wig.” Julia, now 71, said her mother was certainly independent. This trait is something she carries in her own life, along with the memories of her loving mother. “My mum was always there, we had lots of good times,” she said. 

Julia Hutton, 71, said her mother Sarah was an advocate for women’s rights and it’s something she carries with her to this day. Photo: Holly Curtis.

M I TC H E LTO N W I N E S AUTUMN 2017

Experience the array of warm Autumn colours through the vines or savour a glass of wine by the fire in Cellar Door. This season, the Muse Restaurant at Mitchelton features a rustic French inspired menu using regionally sourced produce, designed to compliment the estate grown Wines. A perfect dining experience to share with mum on Mothers’ Day.

In expanding the offer at Mitchelton, the chocolatiers - The Ministry of Chocolate are producing over 70 handmade Belgium & Australian chocolates here on-site. Our Chocolate Cafe is open 7 days. You can’t leave Mitchelton without taking in the breathtaking panoramic views of the vineyard and surrounding areas from the famous 55 mt ‘Ashton Tower’ observation deck.

For more information visit www.mitchelton.com.au or call (03) 5736 2222 BETT Y | April 2017 | Issue 1

Myotherapy eutic Corrective Individual Therap n Exercise Sessio

oga Waiting Pilates and Y

Pregnancy Pilates

Area

Yoga

Reformer Pilates

tic Corrective Open Therapeu n Exercise Sessio

116 Corio Street, Shepparton â&#x20AC;˘ 5831 5400 â&#x20AC;˘ welcome@fixmp.com.au

www.fixmp.com.au

Formally Shepparton Myotherapy

ASK THE EXPERTS

Hypnobirthing for a positive experience After Tracey Forster used Hypnobirthing during the birth of her own two children; she wanted to share the joy with other women. Tracey teaches techniques to mothers and their birth partner’s for a beautiful, calm and positive birth experience. Tracey has been a local Health Coach for 10 years and is a certified Hypnobirthing Australia Practitioner. Parents only have one chance to birth their baby, and they deserve this to be the best birth experience. Tracey said that when a baby is born so too is a mother and father, and it is the start of their journey together as a family.

What is Hypnobirthing? Hypnobirthing is when a mother and birth partner can approach birth without fear and with knowledge, good support, and tools for the birth — allowing the birth to be a positive and empowering experience. The ‘hypnosis’ part of ‘hypnobirthing’ is used to release fears and condition ourselves to release endorphins.

How long does it take to learn and should my partner come to the course? It is ideal for the birth partner to come to learn their role, as they provide amazing support and play an important role during the birth. It’s a 12 hour course, spread over four evenings or two days. There are different options and even an online course.

What kind of things can you expect to learn? You learn to trust your body, to do what it is designed to do. You will feel like the driver as opposed to the passenger in the birthing process. You also gain a positive mindset and learn breathing techniques, massage, acupressure, and other tools to keep you relaxed throughout pregnancy, birth and beyond.

Does Hypnobirthing only apply to natural births? We promote a positive birth and to calmly meet whatever path our birthing may take. Hypnobubs are born at home, in hospital, waterbirths and via Caesarean.

For more information about classes please contact Tracey Forster, p 0438 569 242 e tracey@naturesstudio.com.au w naturesstudio.com.au Or connect with us on social media, facebook.com/naturesstudiohypnobirthingandoils

MARVELOUS

Motherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s DAY GIFTS

6 1. Lipsense Julie Conti www.senegence.com.au/JulesLipsAndBeautyLipsense long lasting lip colours, $34 each. 2. Blossom with Love Shop 2, Harris Scarfe Plaza Fresh flowers to suit all budgets. 3. Shop 221 Maude St Jump Faux fur scarf, $99.95. 4. Blossom with Love Shop 2, Harris Scarfe Plaza Terrarium large, $250 (othersizes available). 5. Blossom with Love Shop 2, Harris Scarfe Plaza white ceramic planter with Designer Rhipsalis $40, grey ceramic planter with Peperomia, $30. 6. Sabac on High High St timber home, $28.95. 7. Pinch of Salt Fryers St Crabtree & Evelyn Goatmilk Bodycare, Comforting Body Milk $31.95. 8. Traffik Boutique Fryers St Rosebullet grey knit $59.95. 9. Blizzards Jewellers Harris Scarfe Plaza Coeur De Lion Sophisticated rose and black necklace, $315. 10. Pampens Boutique McLennan St

BETT Y | April 2017 | Issue 1

16 14

Weekend Z+P Jumper, $160. 11. Graham Hill Eyecare Maude St Coco Song Fifty Miles, $660. 12. Purdeys Jewellers Wyndham St Strand fresh water pearls 8â&#x20AC;&#x201C;8.5 mm with 9ct white gold clasp $1295, 9ct rose gold rose quartz and diamond enhancer, $795 (sold separately). 13. Creative Styles www.facebook.com/creativestylespc customised homemade hampers, starting from $30. 14. Harvey Norman Riverside Plaza Philips 2300W Moisture Protect hair dryer, $129. 15. Pinch of Salt Fryers St Annabel Trends fabric shower cap $26.95, heat pack $33.95. 16. Natures Studio tracey@naturesstudio.com.au doTERRA Essential Oils Balance, $36. 17. Sabac on High High St teal metal vases, small $47.50, large $71.50. 18. Billabong Garden Complex Numurkah Rd Rustic heart planter and succulent, from $32.95. BETT Y | April 2017 | Issue 1

Audi Vorsprung durch Technik

Audi Q3 1.4 TFSI with Technik package from only $46,500 drive away.* Visit Audi Centre Shepparton to book a test drive today. 325-329 Midland Hwy, Shepparton | Tel. 5822 5811 | audicentreshepparton.com.au * Technik package includes MMI navigation plus, Audi park assist and Audi sound system. $46,500 is the drive away price for the Audi Q3 1.4 TFSI S tronic with Technik package. Available for new stock vehicles purchased and delivered between 1/2/17 and 30/4/17. While stock lasts. Not available to fleet, government or rental buyers, or with other oďŹ&#x20AC;ers. Audi Australia reserves the right to change or extend this oďŹ&#x20AC;er. LMCT9883

Breastfeeding

Aforjourney of learning mother and baby By Alana Christensen For mothers learning how to breastfeed their baby, it is not often a venture without some challenges. Many mothers need support and guidance when learning how to breastfeed and when showing their baby the way. In this section local mothers share their personal experiences and a variety of local support services highlight what options are available.

Taking it one feed at a time

When Alison Daws gave birth to her “So many people said, ‘Oh no, it’s okay. daughter Claire she knew she wanted to You can stop. You don’t have to feed, you breastfeed her — but it was a decision that can give her the bottle’,” she said. came with several months of challenges. “Which was because they cared and The Shepparton mum said she they didn’t want to see me in pain, but experienced excruciating pain when what I really needed was people to say breastfeeding Claire — born four-and-a- ‘keep going, you can do it, you’ll get half years ago — due to a condition that through it’.” restricted blood flow to her nipple. Alison said despite the pain she’d At times she found herself struggling experienced in the early stages of to work up the courage to feed. breastfeeding both her children, she “It got to the point where my husband was glad she didn’t give would be outside and he’d say ‘let me up, and encouraged know where you’re feeding next’ and he’d women to seek come in and sit next to me for moral help and support support,” she said. throughout “You’d go to latch her on and at the last their own minute you’d lose your nerve, you’d just breastfeeding be like ‘I can’t do it’ and I used to have experience. to stop my feed and grit my teeth, it was very extreme pain. It was horrible.” Throughout the 11 weeks of pain, Alison said she focused on taking it one feed, and then one day, at a time — until the pain eventually subsided and she was able to embrace the whole experience pain-free. “It is such a personal thing but a lifechanging thing,” she said. “The benefits of feeding, after that initial hell period, were just so wonderful. When they get sick and they don’t want anything, they’ll feed. You feel like you can look after them better. “If they get really distraught you can comfort them really easily … I love knowing that I’ve got the magic potion.” Although Alison never wavered in her determination, the good intentions of those around her did present an obstacle.

“You don’t have to give up, there are so many avenues you can try first before you have to give up,” she said. “I think we second guess ourselves as women … We worry because we can’t see it, we can’t measure it.” Alison said women had a lot of trust in their bodies throughout a pregnancy, but often that did not continue after the birth. “As soon as they’re on the outside and we’re breastfeeding, we start to question our body’s ability to meet their needs,” she said. “That’s the same body that did it on the inside; give your body a chance.” 

Alison Daws with Lachie, 18 months, and Claire, 4.

BETT Y | April 2017 | Issue 1

Breastfeeding

Five babies, f ive different experiences with breastfeeding

By Alana Christensen

As Shasta-Rose Williams cradles her precious baby in her arms, the mother of five experiences one of the magic moments of motherhood: breastfeeding. While Shasta-Rose has settled in well with breastfeeding three-monthold Everly-Rose, her general breastfeeding history has

been a long and complicated one. of breastfeeding. Shasta-Rose has experienced more ups “You assume it’s going to be this and downs than most mothers and said beautiful, easy, natural thing and then she had tried and been through just about you find out it’s not, and nobody tells you everything. about over or undersupply or mastitis or “I’ve had oversupply, undersupply, anything like that,” she said. thrush, mastitis, I’ve used a supply line, “They don’t mention that you could I’ve had a premature baby in the nursery struggle and they certainly don’t mention I’ve supplied for, I’ve wet nursed, I’ve that it can take up to six weeks (for most tandem fed,” she said. women) to establish breastfeeding. “I’ve done pretty much every box you “So many women have given up by can tick.” then, really through no fault of their own It has been six years since Everly…a month is a long time when you have a Rose’s fourth child was newborn.” born — son Zayn — and she Over the years, Shasta-Rose has said it had taken time to sought support and advice from a number get back into the swing of of different services, something that was a mothering a young baby. key to success — especially during her first “Sometimes pregnancy. breastfeeding is just about “You spend a lot of time in tears getting through the day, and because no-one knows what they’re doing then getting through the next … mum is learning, the baby is learning. day,” she said. “It’s something I’ve always felt very “Every day can be so hard passionate about … making sure there’s when you’re trying to feed a help out there, and not just ‘you need to newborn when you’re tired rest’, actually practical help. … It becomes a real trial.” “Each child is different, you’re Shasta-Rose said constantly learning … A lot of the time many people were not what you need is someone to really genuinely help you.”  aware of the realities

Shasta-Rose Williams with her three-month-old daughter EverlyRose. Photo: Holly Curtis

When breastfeeding doesn’t work out The latest research shows that nine out of 10 women start out by breastfeeding their babies. Most women want to breastfeed but despite their best intentions, hopes and efforts, breastfeeding sometimes does not work out. If you are reading this and your breastfeeding experience was not all you hoped it would be, please know that ABA is here for you. Many ABA counsellors have experienced breastfeeding challenges themselves — indeed, it is often the reason why they trained to become

BETT Y | April 2017 | Issue 1

a counsellor in the first place. ABA provides unconditional support, no matter what your parenting decisions are.

Your options if you are not breastfeeding Babies under 12 months require breast milk or formula to grow and develop. If you are not breastfeeding your baby, you can: • Express breast milk • Use donor milk • Use formula • Use a combination of any or all of the above.

Sometimes a mother decides to resume breastfeeding after a break. With patience and determination (and a co-operative baby), a mother can often rebuild a milk supply very successfully. For more information on relactation, contact an ABA counsellor or see our Breastfeeding and Relactation booklet, sold through the Australian Breastfeeding Association. This information was sourced from the Australian Breastfeeding Association, www.breastfeeding.asn.au 

Breastfeeding

The birth of a local support service By Damita Lamont and Jessica Ball

After calls for help from local women, the Goulburn Valley Health Breastfeeding Support Service was born almost 20 years ago, helping to nurture the bonding experience between mother and baby. Mothercraft nurses-cum-lactation consultants Mandy Faram and Dianne James launched the service. It was a time when the early postpartum discharge program was in place at the hospital. “Mums were going home before feeding was established,” Mandy said. “So many things change in the first few days — mums are tired, they have a lot going on, and hormones,” Dianne said. From attachment and settling issues to sore nipples and mastitis, Dianne has seen it all.

She said while breastfeeding is natural it is a skill that had to be learned. “There are so many benefits of breastfeeding but it’s hard and it’s very easy to give up,” she said. “If we can instill in them to trust their bodies, if they are keen to do it and work hard, they can do it.” Mandy has now retired but said it had been rewarding to help each mother discover what worked for her. “Just seeing the mother be able to successfully feed their baby, and (to see) their baby thriving, is amazing,” she said. Mandy said having a supportive partner was essential. “We encourage the fathers to come in and stay for a while and we have a bit of a chat about their role and about how they can help.” 

Support for learning to breastfeed Breastfeeding can be a difficult skill to master for new mums, with many facing challenges relating to latching, soreness or milk supply. Fortunately there are a variety of services available to local women to support them in their breastfeeding journey. These services are essential as Greater Shepparton has one of the lowest rates of breastfeeding in the state, according to Greater Shepparton City Council breastfeeding project officer Kristie Welch. “We’re encouraging people to seek help before they make a decision not to,” she said.

Greater Shepparton City Council . breastfeeding project officer Kristie Welch

“It’s something you need to learn, you don’t just have a baby and put it to the breast, it’s not that easy.” “The most important thing is to have different (support) options for different people and their different problems.” Kristie said breastfeeding had a variety of health benefits, with breast milk containing all the nutrition a baby needed for up to the first six months of life. It also had the added benefits of reducing a baby’s risk of illness, infections, allergy and sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) and promoted optimal development of the jaw, speech and eyesight, she said. The World Health Organization recommends exclusive breastfeeding for up to six months of age. Following this, breastfeeding can be continued along with appropriate complementary foods up to the age of two years or beyond, Kristie said. Greater Shepparton is striving to be a breastfeeding-friendly city, and Kristie said quality breastfeeding education was key. The Goulburn Valley Health Breastfeeding Support Service is a great place for mothers to gain practical advice and guidance. “It’s a day stay service — they can spend a decent amount of time with a lactation consultant and they can be there for more than one feed,” Kristie said. Kristie said the Family Care Parent

Mandy Faram helping Katrina Curtis with then newborn son Jakob Swain in 2013.

Child Program was another beneficial service that provided support to parents with newborn babies and children up to the age of four years. She said the program offered assistance with breast and bottle feeding, food refusal, sleep disturbances and routines, and toddler behaviour. There is also a breastfeeding outreach program that runs through Maternal and Child Health services, with specialised nurses who provide a wealth of knowledge when it comes to breastfeeding. This free service was helpful for those with newborn babies, as it offers support in the mother’s own home. The council’s Breastfeeding Café is run like a drop-in centre, with a maternal and child health nurse on hand to provide support and advice. “(Mums can) seek advice and talk to other mums while having a free cup of tea or coffee,” Kristie said. “They can come in for five minutes, stay the whole two hours or as long as they need.” The Australian Breastfeeding Association — Shepparton Group also offer discussion facilitated by a breastfeeding counsellor. “The ABA have a monthly meeting where they get together and have a casual talk, Kristie said. “It’s more about sharing and catching up with other mums.”  BETT Y | April 2017 | Issue 1

Local support for the breastfeeding journey KRISTIE WELCH Greater Shepparton City Council breastfeeding project officer

When Kristie Welch was pregnant with her first daughter Marni, now four, she knew she wanted to breastfeed. What she didn’t know was just how difficult it could be, but that with the right support she would master it After receiving support from local services for breastfeeding Kristie knew she wanted to play her part in helping local mothers — so she began working with Greater Shepparton City Council as a breastfeeding project officer. Since then she has also had daughter Blaise, aged two. Kristie’s role is to provide information to mothers about what support services are available so they can access them. “It is about getting the information out into the community and supporting the organisations that provide breastfeeding support,” she said. Kristie also runs a breastfeeding conference every two years for local professionals in the industry to help develop breastfeeding knowledge. “We bring in high-level speakers to talk to the nurses, midwives, and other breastfeeding-related support services,” she said. “There is breastfeeding education around, but it is great to have this offered in a regional area and local to Shepparton. “I like to know that through this I am helping the community at some level.” Every second month Kristie attends a breastfeeding work group with professional women from the industry. “It is a networking opportunity; we share information and bounce ideas off each other,” she said. “I couldn’t do the job without them.”

JANN BROMLEY

ROSIE HENRY

Goulburn Valley Health Breastfeeding Support Service lactation consultant

Greater Shepparton City Council maternal and child health nurse and Breastfeeding Café facilitator

Jann Bromley has been a midwife for 25 years, and as her own children grew older she decided to study to also become a lactation consultant. She is now employed as both a midwife and lactation consultant with GV Health. “I’d always had a passion for breastfeeding,” Jann said. “I really wanted to be able to support women and help them achieve their goals.” The Goulburn Valley Health Breastfeeding Support Service offers a lactation day stay and Jann said it could be whatever the individual mum wanted it to be. “Sometimes it might just be one feed, sometimes a couple of feeds, sometimes they might come to one and come back for the next one,” Jann said. “Some mums come back three or four times if they are having an ongoing issue or if they’re not quite getting it when they get home.” Jann said it was about teaching mums to trust in their own bodies and giving them the confidence to pursue their options.

Rosie Henry has dedicated herself to helping new mums on their breastfeeding journey in multiple roles during the past five years. Rosie is a maternal and child health nurse with Greater Shepparton City Council and is also the facilitator of Shepparton’s Breastfeeding Café. “As a maternal and child health nurse we see families with new babies and children up to the age of five,” she said. “We look at their growth, their development and their language skills. “We’re basically here as a support person for families after the birth of the baby.” The Breastfeeding Café, located next to Kialla Medical Centre at Riverside Plaza, is where breastfeeding mothers with babies of any age can come in for support with their breastfeeding. “Breastfeeding is everyone’s individual decision and I think there’s a lot of pressure put on mums to breastfeed — but we are here to support the mums in whatever decision they make,” Rosie said.

BETT Y | April 2017 | Issue 1

Left to right: Kristie Welch, Greater Shepparton City Council breastfeeding project officer; Jann Bromley, Goulburn Valley Health Breastfeeding Support Service lactation consultant; Rosie Henry, Greater Shepparton City Council Maternal and Child Health Nurse and Breastfeeding Café Facilitator; and Tracy Birchall, Australian Breastfeeding Association breastfeeding counsellor.

TRACY BIRCHALL Australian Breastfeeding Association breastfeeding counsellor

Like most mothers, Tracy Birchall’s journey with breastfeeding has had many ups and downs. The mother of three — who is a child psychologist and volunteers her spare time as a breastfeeding counsellor with the Australian Breastfeeding Association (ABA) — said she found the support of local services to be very helpful. “When I did have challenges I found the support of the ABA to be really beneficial and I thought I wanted to return that support for other mums, because I realised how rewarding it was to breastfeed when I wanted to,” Tracy said. “We organise and attend gatherings for mums who are mostly in the early stages of their breastfeeding journey, but also those with subsequent children at various points in their journey.” Additionally, Tracy and other ABA volunteers operate a national breastfeeding helpline for mothers who find themselves in need of advice. To volunteer with the ABA, Tracy completed a certificate four-course in breastfeeding counselling.

This page is supported by:

BETT Y | April 2017 | Issue 1

Childcare

Finding the right fit for your child A childcare provider offers so much more than just supervision: it nurtures, educates and guides children in their early years of life. There are a variety of Sheppartonbased childcare options, each offering different services â&#x20AC;&#x201D; allowing families to choose one that is the right fit for their child and lifestyle. Three local mums share their experiences with their childcare provider of choice.

BETT Y | April 2017 | Issue 1

Childcare

A whole family experience By Taylah Burrows

he whole family of Emerson children allowed me to get here quickly.” have been cared for at the Knight The centre’s holistic approach to care and education has meant Kate and her Street Multi-Age Learning over the children have not felt the need to explore years. other care options. Kate Emerson’s children Megan, 17, “I’ve only known this centre and we’ve Alex, 12 and Eppo, 6 have all passed been happy, the continuity is wonderful through the care of the centre and at the so I wouldn’t have ever given it up moment Hannah, 3, is currently enjoying without a good reason,” she said. her time there. Centre manager Fiona Corish said The centre has allowed Kate — on the centre offered a number of great more than one occasion — to balance programs, including multi-age learning work, study towards tertiary degrees and for children aged two and older. her family’s needs. “It’s beautiful for siblings because they “I’ll use it again when I complete posthave that familiar face that they can go to graduate nursing studies as well,” she said. … The kids all know each other and know Lots of light and natural garden spaces the educators from day one,” Fiona said. were some of the key elements of the The centre offers programs for centre that first attracted Kate, as well newborns to school-aged children, with as its flexibility to allow her to continue its Dream room specifically designed to breastfeeding. cater for babies from just eight weeks to “When I was at university and working two years old. in local government, I negotiated breaks “It’s a very home-like environment, it and would come back here and feed my looks very much like a nursery,” Fiona children,” she said. said. “Being close to the university, hospital “We keep to the family routines around and council has been fantastic; it has eating, sleeping and anything else.” 

Childcare with a difference

Kate Emerson with Eppo, 6, and Hannah, 3.

Siblings supporting eachother

Family and community orientated atmosphere Children engaging with nature

• Multi age learning • Long day care hours Monday to Friday for working families

“We love our Bush Kinder”

• Bush Kinder where nature is your classroom

• Specialised Dream Room for babies • Qualified and passionate educators • Natural environments Qualified Chef

Knight Street Multi-Age Learning Pre School and Child Care Centre Monday to Friday 6.30 am – 6 pm

164 Knight Street, Shepparton Ph: 5831 8911

www.knightstreet.wixsite.com/knightstreet

knightstreetchildrenscentre BETT Y | April 2017 | Issue 1

Childcare

Inspired child care By Taylah Burrows

he child-led learning, good curriculum and sustainable practices through the use of wooden toys are just some of the benefits of a local childcare centre. Anna Gee first experienced what Inspira Kids Early Learning Centre had to offer while attending a pop-up stall they were running at a shopping centre. After taking her son James, 2, to the Kialla centre she came to love it for those benefits. James starts his day at Inspira Kids playing outdoors and when Anna returns at the end of the day he usually leaves with some kind of painting or craft. He attends Inspira Kids a couple of days a week, which allows Anna the flexibility to work. “At the age of two he was ready for something different. He was ready for that next step of socialisation,” she said. “He comes home saying things and doing things I haven’t taught him.” The centre’s staff — from front reception to James’ room leader and the centre’s chef — are highly welcoming and this made it easier for Anna to leave James in their care. “I really like the educators here. It’s a really lovely environment and it’s all very light,” she said. Inspira Kids Early Learning Centre cares for children in a mix of relaxed and natural environments both indoors and outdoors, where they can learn through play. The centre’s program is tailored to the individual needs of each child, centre manager Jessica Bartram said. “The program is heavily based on the children’s strength and interests,” she said. “The centre is quite high-tech and technology is used with the children, supervised by our qualified and dedicated staff.” Families will never miss a beat in their child’s life, with the vision captured by cameras throughout the centre being accessible through the parent room. The parent room, hidden off to the side of the foyer, is a welcoming space for parents to make a cuppa and relax or socialise. Children at Inspira Kids enjoy a combination of indoor and outdoor play, social spaces to share nutritious meals and art studios to explore talents. 

BETT Y | April 2017 | Issue 1

Sheppartonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s beautiful new, purpose-built early learning centre, has been specifically designed for children to feel safe, nurtured, stimulated and happy. One very important thing is missing though. Your Child!

Drop in to see our centre anytime 6.30am - 6.30pm. Or call to arrange a tour. Call 5407 1716 inspirakids.com.au 26 RIVERVIEW DRIVE, KIALLA | enquiries@inspirakids.com.au @InspiraKidsELC

Greater Shepparton City Council

Family Day Care Quality without compromise Hours of Care

Family Day Care Coordination Unit

Family Day Care hours are flexible and can be matched to family needs.

The Family Day Care coordination unit is staffed by experienced and qualified professionals who support the provision of quality early childhood education and care.

Types of care include: • • • • • • • •

Full time care Part time care Casual care Care for shift workers Before / after school care School holiday care Weekend care and overnight care 24 hour care

Family Day Care Educators Educators are required and approved using strict selection criteria including interviews, reference checks, criminal record, working with children checks and home safety checks. Educators must hold a Level 2 First Aid, Anaphylaxis and Asthma Certificate, appropriate insurance and maintain a safe and hygienic environment at all times.

The cost of care Family Day Care is able to offer Child Care Benefit (CCB) and Child Care Rebate (CCR) to eligible families.

What is Family Day Care The Family Day Care service is a network of registered educators who provide quality education and care for children from birth through to the end of primary school in the educator’s home.

Advantages • • • •

Children are offered individualised care in small groups of up to 7 children Siblings remain together in care Children are educated and cared for in a safe, comfortable, home environment Children are provided with experiences to suit their individual needs

For further information please contact Greater Shepparton City Council

Family Day Care 10–14 Parkside Drive, Shepparton | Phone: 03 5822 1373 Email: fdc@shepparton.vic.gov.au

| www.greatershepparton.com.au

Childcare

Home-based care provides family atmosphere

Karen Kelly with children Maisie, 3, and Layla, 1.

By Taylah Burrows

amily daycare places an emphasis on the word ‘family’, with all children being loved and cared for just like a mother. Karen Kelly places her children Maisie, 3, and Layla, 1, in the care of Greater Shepparton Family Day Care for two days each week. They love going to the home of their Family Day Care facilitator Karen Eldred. “I love that it’s a real family atmosphere in there,” Karen said. “I feel like I’m dropping them off at their aunt’s house or something. It’s always the same person I drop them off to and pick them up from.” Maisie has been attending Family Day Care since she was five months old, while Layla has been attending for the past six months — and each of the children has revelled in the tailored care provided to them.

Karen said this was a great benefit of Family Day Care. Children placed in Family Day Care also have the opportunity to spend more time with their siblings than in a larger childcare facility, due to being kept together and not separated by age, she said. “Overall I love it because they have all the same opportunities a day care centre has in terms of learning, there are just less of them there and it’s the same person. “I’ve never walked away from there thinking I’d made the wrong decision about care.” Karen Kelly is a teacher at Guthrie St Primary School and had previously met Karen Eldred and her daughters through this role. Having this prior relationship helped with Karen Kelly’s decision when choosing which Family Day Care home to take her children to. “I rang the Family Day Care office and

there were a couple of people I knew in the area, but Karen had a couple of spots free,” Karen Kelly said. “I was happy because I knew her. It was better than dropping the girls with a stranger.” Greater Shepparton Family Day Care offers programs for children aged from six weeks to 13 years. With home-based day care, senior field leader Ange Bathman said children were kept in small groups, ensuring every child’s needs could be quickly addressed on an individual basis. Family Day Care offers a number of services including before and afterschool care, pick-up and weekend care, something Ange said was perfect for busy parents, “It’s really helpful for families that can’t leave in the middle of the day to pick up the kids from kinder or school,” she said. “We offer very flexible hours.”  BETT Y | April 2017 | Issue 1

Something for every

167-171 High Street, Shepparton Phone: (03) 5831 2500 Email: info@sabac.com.au

Sabac

DISCOVER THE NEWEST LOOKS IN HIGH FASHION EYEWEAR Graham Hill Eyecare has a brand new show room, presenting the Goulburn Valleyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most impressive range of glasses and sunglasses. Recently refurbished with over 700 options on display including the latest fashion styles from luxury brands such as: Gucci, Prada, RayBan, Ted Baker, Furla, Sass & Bide, Nike, Maui Jim, Nine West, Coco Song, Oroton. Exclusive stockists of Dior eyewear to the Goulburn Valley

98 Maude St Shepparton | 5821 2811 | www.hilleyecare.com

BETT Y | April 2017 | Issue 1

Fashion

TRANSLATING TRENDS Embrace the seasonal chill with autumnal trends, tailored to suit your shape and style. In the following pages, five local store managers have taken some key trends and translated them into everyday looks â&#x20AC;&#x201D; modelled by local women. Think metallic shines, military greens, moody reds, midnight blues and grey accents â&#x20AC;&#x201D; in sumptuous, textural fabrics. >>>

Photo s: Prue Peters Photography.

footwear

205 Maude St, Shepparton (03) 5821 1241 www.evansshoes.com.au BETT Y | April 2017 | Issue 1

NOREEN SALI

Traffik store manager

inter is back and Traffik store manager Noreen Sali said the versatile blue jean would be big again. “They’re so comfortable, you can dress them in so many ways,” she said. Paired with a bomber jacket in an on-trend burgundy hue, Noreen said the outfit received a quick update for this season. “It’s so warm and fashionable. The hottest essential for winter,” she said. For a night on the town, velvet is returning to the spotlight, while the Keepsake faux fur jacket ensures those cold winter nights don’t ruin your outfit choice. Noreen said this season was all about velvet. “Velvet has made a huge comeback this season, especially through our famous name labels,” she said. “It’s a great on-trend winter look for a night out.” With brands CUE, Veronika Maine and Cooper Street all calling Traffik home, Noreen said there was plenty to choose from for everyone, whether you’re looking for something to wear on the weekends or a show-stopping dress for a big event, and with accessories on hand Traffik is a one-stop shop.

“

Burgundy — the hottest essential for winter.

”

Levi’s 721 High Rise Skinny Jeans $119.95 Bardot burgundy bomber jacket $119.95 Rosebullet top $49.95 Shoes model’s own

BETT Y | April 2017 | Issue 1

Keepsake velvet dress $169.95 Keepsake faux fur jacket $239.95 Keepsake velvet choker $39.95 Shoes modelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s own

Your award-winning fashion store Corner of Maude and Fryers St Shepparton BETT Y | April 2017 | Issue 1

MARGIE WARNETT

Pampen’s Boutique owner

return to a classic palette with pops of staple autumn/winter colour mustard, Pampen’s Boutique owner Margie Warnett said this modern outfit was sure to make a statement. “Age is no barrier to being fashionable,” she said. With pleather detailing, the Canadian label can be paired with black pants and boots for a stunning winter look. If you’re looking to brighten up dreary winter days with a romantic watercolour pattern, this tunic is a great piece for your winter wardrobe. “It’s a very versatile piece, and one that you can dress up or down depending on where you’re wearing it,” Margie said. Worn over a cami or longsleeved top for extra warmth, it’s the perfect look for those mild days in one of this season’s most popular hues. Carrying much-loved brands such as Yarra Trail, The Ark and Philosophy, Margie said there was something for everyone, no matter your age, with quality always the top priority for the store’s labels. With plenty of variety in everyday wear, the store also carries some options for when you’re looking for something a bit more special.

“

Age is no barrier to being fashionable.

”

Picadilly amber multi top $155 Picadilly wet look pants $135 365 Days necklace $40 Shoes model’s own

BETT Y | April 2017 | Issue 1

The Ark Misha Tunic $329 The Ark Yasmin Pant $229 The Ark Slip Top $69 365 Days Necklace $30 Shoes model’s own

112B McLennan St, Mooroopna • Ph: 5825 1401 BETT Y | April 2017 | Issue 1

SEL SHEMSHEDIN

Sel’s Gifts & Decor owner

o from the office to cocktails with versatile, capsule wardrobe pieces. A faux leather jacket is a must have Winter staple that owner Sel Shemshedin said can dress up any look day to night. “It looks great, it’s warm and the cut is nice and flowy,” she said. Add a dash of femininity to a monochromatic outfit with on-trend blush while elongating the body with a stylish long shirt. For a smart casual look that can easily transition from Autumn to Winter this blue denim dress is a stunning wardrobe addition. As the weather cools off Sel suggested adding leggings or a vest for extra warmth. “It’s perfect for layering,” she said. “Denim is very on trend and Elk is always great quality, it washes well and doesn’t’ date.” A well-known destination for dressing the home, Sel’s Gift and Décor can also complete an outfit from head to toe. Sel said there is no need to forgo style when shopping for comfort and warmth. “Low risk wardrobe investment allows room for experimentation and means you can regularly update your wardrobe with easy,” she said. “The smallest of details can have a huge effect.”

“

Denim is very on trend and Elk is always great quality

”

Eb & Ive white shirt $84.95 365 Days ponte straight leg pants $89 Eb & Ive faux leather jacket $145 Captivated Eyewear reading glasses $29.95 Zura scarf $39.95 Alissa silver necklace $59.95 Cosgrove & Beasley bag $110 Shoe’s models own

BETT Y | April 2017 | Issue 1

Showcasing the

s d n e r t t lates in fashion and homewares this season!

Elk blue denim dress $149 Eb & Ive clutch $44.95 Alissa bracelet stack $34.95 Zura scarf $29.95 365 Days silver earrings $24.95

17 Fraser Street, Shepparton (03) 5821 2072 selsgiftsanddecor@bigpond.com BETT Y | April 2017 | Issue 1

MARY SALI

Shop 221 store proprietor

it for a wedding or special occasion, this figure-hugging RTM lace dress provides flair and elegance with on-trend bell sleeves. “It’s very flattering and gives you a waist, whilst still showing off the bust,” Shop 221 store proprietor Mary Sali said. “Lace is very strong for the season and this is a great new colour that’s on trend.” If a more relaxed look is more your style, a versatile pair of jeans and puffer vest will keep you cosy all day, while still allowing you to keep up with the latest fashion. “It’s just perfect for a relaxed weekend out with the girls or your family,” Mary said. “Style it with a statement bag for a pop of colour.” With clothing ranging from sizes 8 to 24, there’s a style and shape to suit every figure, with the team at Shop 221 specialising in evening wear. “We’ve got everything from classic pieces to fashion forward pieces,” Mary said. “People often leave wearing Shop 221 head to toe!”

“

Lace is very strong for the season.

”

Olga Berg clutch $99.95 Necklace $69.95 Diamante cuff $69.95 RTM Purple lace dress $159.95

BETT Y | April 2017 | Issue 1

Jump jeans $139.95

Stunning collections instore now

Jump vest $129.95 Jump top $89.95 Jendi scarf $49.95 Jendi bag $69.95 Shoes modelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s own

Fashion for all ages. Womens sizes 8-24 185 Maude St Mall, Shepparton. Ph: (03) 5821 2161 BETT Y | April 2017 | Issue 1

OLIVERA MEKA

Arcade Fashion store manager

he cape is having its moment this season. It’s a stylish way to keep warm and is very versatile and great for layering. Teamed with the colour of the moment, khaki, the look is finished off with a staple of every woman’s wardrobe, black pants. “High-rise pants make the most of your waist and are a great modern update to your wardrobe,” Arcade Fashion store manager Olivera Meka said. A welcomed pop of colour to any autumn/winter wardrobe, this highnecked emerald dress is sure to turn heads. “It’s bright, sophisticated and just beautiful,” Olivera said. “It’s a bold colour and a real statement dress.” Pair the dress with simple accessories to let it steal the spotlight. With a wide range of choices from causal comfort to high fashion and streetwear, Olivera said there was something for everyone. “It’s great for ladies that are looking for something fashion forward that can keep them up with the weekly trends."

“

The colour of the moment: khaki.

”

Maxim cape $79.95 Maxim ribbed tee $39.95 Maxim high-rise pants $59.95 Hat $39.95

BETT Y | April 2017 | Issue 1

Grayson Co dress $79.95

215 Maude St Mall Shepparton 5821 0037 Shop online now www.arcadefashions.com.au BETT Y | April 2017 | Issue 1

LONG LASTING REVOLUTIONARY

ff o ss i k t o n Will LipSense ®

by SeneGence®

LIP COLOUR SKINCARE & MAKE-UP Lasts 4-18 hours Will not dry lips Waterproof Smudge proof Never ending colour combinations Patented formula Gluten Free, GMO Free, Lead Free, Wax Free

NOT TESTED ON ANIMALS www.senegence.com.au/JulesLipsAndBeauty DISTRIBUTORS & STOCKISTS WANTED

JULIE CONTI INDEPENDANT SENEGENCE DISTRIBUTOR #226537

0412 944 819 | julie.a.conti@gmail.com

Find us on Facebook:

Jules Lips and Beauty

Beauty

Auburn lips for seasonal flair By Alana Christensen As the autumn season sets in and transforms the landscape with auburn hues, so too are transformations happening with makeup trends. Just like fashion, lipsticks come with a whole new set of tones for the cooler months, according to independent SeneGence makeup distributor Julie Conti. “Reds, browns and plums tend to be the hues people go for in winter, and of course your wine-toned lipsticks,” she said. Julie said women tended to go with a more subdued look in winter and naturally gravitated towards muted tones. But Julie said just because it was cold outside, it didn’t mean you had to tone down your lipstick. “Everyone loves a bright red lip,” she said.

How to get the perfect lip

1. Apply lipstick to clean, dry lips. 2. With parted lips, start at the

outside corner of your mouth and apply the lipstick in a fluid motion across the lips to the opposite corner.

3. Allow the lipstick to dry and

then repeat until you’ve applied three layers.

4. Add a light gloss and you’re on your way.

BETT Y | April 2017 | Issue 1

Beauty

Elegant earthy hues By Alana Christensen Earthy tones are key to creating an autumnal look with eye makeup, and you need look no further than the seasonal landscapes for your inspiration with a variety of warm and moody hues to choose from. “Light browns, gold tones and nude colours are all on trend,” independent SeneGence makeup distributor Julie Conti said. “Anything with earthy tones works for eyeshadow.” Big, bold and beautifully defined brows are a trend that will continue again this season. Julie said an eyebrow pencil was an ideal way of creating the perfect brow; but for a product that would serve a dual purpose, opt for a ShadowSense crème eyeshadow. “These eyeshadows can be used for brows,” she said. “I just get a little bit on a brush and use it to fill in my brows.” If you have a steady hand and love a classic look, Julie said winged eyeliner would continue to be big this season.

Perfecting eyeshadow application 1. Swipe some eyeshadow onto your eyelid.

2. Blend the eyeshadow with a brush or finger until you’re happy with the result. 3. If using multiple colours, just layer on top and repeat the process. BETT Y | April 2017 | Issue 1

ASK THE EXPERTS

Take steps to avoid foot pain Heel pain and bunions are some of the most common ailments that Shepparton Foot Clinic owner and podiatrist John Head sees in women every day. As more and more women are diagnosed with foot conditions, they become increasingly aware of preventing similar issues in their children.

What is a bunion? A bunion is a deformed big toe joint where a lump develops on the ball and the foot and the toe goes sideways towards the other toes. They are more common in women; it seems to be inherited along the female line. How are bunions caused? Bunions are not caused by shoes, they are inherited. Consequently, there are some foot shapes that are predisposed to bunions. How do you go about treating bunions? Generally it’s a case of understanding what is causing it and looking at the best way of addressing it. Exercises, supportive footwear, insoles and surgery are options. What about heel pain in women? The classic symptoms are pain under the heel first thing in the morning or after rest. It’s also known as heel spurs and basically it’s a sprain of a ligament.

What is the treatment for pain like this? Treatment is primarily reducing tension on the ligament which means supporting the arch and stabilising the foot and putting on a shoe with a bit of a heel. We would also reduce the inflammation to give the ligament a chance to heal. What sort of measures help prevent heel pain? If someone is in a profession where they’re standing a lot it is best to wear a shoe that is stable and preferably with a bit of contour within the shoe. Also exercises to stretch and strengthen the muscles in the arch, the Achilles tendon and calf muscles will help.

Are there any underlying causes? It’s usually connected to excessive stretching of the arch, which can be caused by increasing stress on the foot or wearing excessively flat and flexible shoes. A lot of women who work in occupations where they’re standing up a lot or playing sport will experience the pain.

Shepparton Foot Clinic | 14 Welsford St Shepparton Book an appointment today! (03) 5822 1855 www.sheppartonfootclinic.com.au

Local banking

Banking

You’re not born into this world as a number. So why do most banks see you as one?

Saving

At GMCU we see you as a person, and give you products and services in your best interest. That’s the value of GMCU.

Home Loans Whether you are buying or building, we can help you make a house your dream home. GMCU offers a range of Home Loan choices - you can choose a Fixed or Variable rate or even an Equity Access Line of Credit.

Investments Insurance Loans

If you are building or renovating we can help by advancing parts of your loan as your build proceeds. If you are eligible, we can even help you claim the Government’s First Home Owners Grant. When you borrow from GMCU you deal with one lender from start to finish simple, isn’t it!

Ask at your local branch today!

Goulburn Murray Credit Union customer owned banking Goulburn Murray Credit Union Cooperative Ltd ABN 87 087 651 509 AFSL/ Australian Credit Licence No. 241364. Terms & conditions, fees & charges and eligibility criteria apply.

connect at gmcu.com.au

Career change

Forging a career after children By Alana Christensen Photo: Julie Mercer

fter getting married at 18, Leanne Raditsas had her dream career in mind, but it never involved sitting at a desk. Having left school in Year 10, she knew there was one thing she wanted to be — a mother. Yet as her children grew older, Leanne faced the prospect of re-entering the workforce and going from nurturing her children to a career. “I got married very young, so a career wasn’t on my mind, marriage and family was,” she said. “I really always just wanted to be a stayat-home mum, so I was just really focused on doing that, which I did.” By the time Leanne was 19, she and husband Peter had welcomed their daughter Lauren into the world. The family grew two years later with the arrival of another daughter, Alison. With two young children, Leanne finally had the family she always wanted

BETT Y | April 2017 | Issue 1

and spent her days at home watching them grow. Yet as they moved through school, Leanne starting turning her focus to her own career and what would happen in the future. “As the children got older, I was very concerned I wouldn’t have anything outside of being a mum, and I realised that to get back into a meaningful job in the workforce I would have to study to upskill myself, to get myself ready for a very changed workforce,” she said. After completing a Certificate IV in Business Administration, Leanne enrolled in a Bachelor of Business (Accounting) at La Trobe University, which she finished in November 2015. Finding a job came with plenty of consideration from Leanne. Having a family at home that she adored meant she wouldn’t sacrifice time with them for just any job. “You spend so many waking hours at your work … and I think when you’ve

had a family you really think, ‘what is there that I could be doing that is more valuable than spending time with the family?’” Leanne said. “I would always say, ‘is this job worth being away from my family for?’” With her two daughters now entering careers of their own, Leanne has found a job she’s passionate about — working as an electorate officer in Member for Shepparton Suzanna Sheed’s office. Having supported the politician during her campaign, Leanne said she was thrilled when the opportunity to join her team arose, despite the unknown nature of the future. Her job will depend on who wins the next state election, but Leanne said regardless of what happened, she was secure in what she wanted from her career. “As long as I feel like I’m adding value to society overall and it’s beneficial in some way to the community, that’s what it comes down to,” she said. 

“

I would always say, ‘is this job worth being away from my family for?’

”

BETT Y | April 2017 | Issue 1

Career change

Family ignites passion By Jessica Ball Photo: Holly Curtis

ime out of the workforce to focus on raising her two little girls helped Emma Hernan discover her passion. After graduating high school Emma went straight out and found a job working with horses before moving into retail. But with the arrival of two daughters, Isabelle and Olivia, now aged 8 and 4, while husband Tim worked away in the mines, Emma said she simply did not have time for anything else. “It was too difficult,” Emma said. “We moved away from all our family and all our support so I just couldn’t do it.” When the family returned home to Dookie, Emma decided to do something for herself and enrolled in a Certificate III in hairdressing. “It only sort of happened when I had the kids, before then I never really wanted to do hairdressing, I had never even thought about it as a career but now that I’m doing it I really love it,” she said. “I’ve always loved playing with the girls’ hair so I thought hairdressing would be somewhere good to start. “Especially with Isabelle because she would just sit there and let me do anything with her hair so it was always up and braided and twisted and curled.

BETT Y | April 2017 | Issue 1

“Olivia is not quite as willing — she doesn’t like to sit still.” As well as allowing her creativity to shine, Emma said the career change had made her a positive role model for her young daughters. “It’s like I have my own independence back again, it’s not all just about doing everything for the kids all the time, I’ve been able to go out and do my own thing and make new friends,” she said. “I really enjoy cutting and doing up-styles — they’re really fun — especially with the hair ups you can make

something out of really nothing.” Emma said going back to study would not have been be possible without the support and encouragement of her husband and their families. “At times I’ve wanted just to give up because it’s been hard juggling everything, making sure the kids are where they need to be, but I’ve had a lot of support from my family so it’s made it easier to keep going,” she said. “I’ve put Tim through a few things, I needed a model for my hair bleach not long ago and Tim was called up. “His hair looked a bit crazy because he has a big dark beard and he had this blond on top and he looked like Jason Akermanis.” When she finishes her studies later this year Emma hopes to gain more experience working for someone else before eventually going out on her own. “As long as I have a pair of scissors I can take it anywhere,” she said. “I’ll be able to do it from home or go and work for someone else.” 

STUDY AT LA TROBE UNIVERSITY SHEPPARTON 18

COURSES OFFERED LOCALLY PLUS TAFE PATHWAY OPPORTUNITIES

STUDENT EXCHANGE DC 33877 04/17

ACTIVE PARTNERSHIPS WITH OVER 150 INSTITUTIONS IN MORE THAN 40 COUNTRIES

OF RESEARCH AREAS ASSESSED AT ABOVE OR WELL ABOVE WORLD CLASS (2015 Excellence in Research for Australia National Report)

WORK INTEGRATED LEARNING ALL SHEPPARTON STUDENTS HAVE THE OPPORTUNITY TO PARTICIPATE IN WORK PLACEMENTS

twitter.com/latrobe

T 03 5820 8600

TOP 50

RANKED IN THE WORLD’S UNIVERSITIES UNDER THE AGE OF 50 (QS Rankings Top 50 Under 50, 2016-2017)

AUSTRALIA’S BEST UNIVERSITY FOR RESEARCH IN AGRICULTURAL AND VETERINARY STUDIES (2015 Excellence in Research for Australia National Report)

facebook.com/latrobe

latrobe.edu.au

Join the team

at Goulburn Valley Health! Goulburn Valley Health (GV Health) is the largest employer in the Goulburn Valley Region, employing more than 2,000 employees. GV Health is the Public Health Service for the Hume Region with main campuses located at Shepparton, Tatura and Rushworth. There are additional sites located in Shepparton, Seymour, Benalla, Echuca, Cobram and Wodonga. We can offer you outstanding job and career opportunities, ranging from senior medical positions to support services. We offer various positions in the following areas: • Nursing

• Support Services

• Allied Health

• Community Health

• Medical

• Mental Health

• Administration

• Graduate Programs

• Professional Services

• Registrar Programs

• Health Assistant in Nursing • Enrolled Nurse Transition Program • And more!

At GV Health our people thrive in a challenging and professional environment and enjoy being part of a highly recognised and skilled team. If you think you would enjoy being a part of a dynamic team, take a look at our current vacancies by visiting www.gvhealth.org.au. Our Values Compassion | Respect | Excellence | Accountability | Teamwork | Ethical Behaviour

Together we CREATE our future.

Healthy Communities Graham Street, Shepparton, VIC 3630 Australia P 03 5832 2322 | E enquiry@gvhealth.org.au Like us on Facebook BETT Y | April 2017 | Issue 1

Career change

Daydream to day job By Jessica Ball Photo: Holly Curtis

stelle Houlihan once spent office hours daydreaming of chucking in her accounting firm job to become a nurse. Now her days and nights are spent in the Goulburn Valley Health emergency department (ED) and intensive care unit (ICU). “Originally my girlfriend in accounting who used to sit next door to me, we used to fantasise about becoming nurses, working shift work and having more flexibility and playing a bit of golf,” Estelle said. When she was 38 Estelle’s youngest daughter was born and mum-of-four knew it was time for change. “When I went on maternity leave I thought, ‘I don’t want to sit at a computer all day and talk to four people’ so I thought I would retrain as a nurse,” she said. “I had a really beautiful midwife and her name was Jan when I had Maisey at GV base (hospital), she was just so kind and so caring and really listened and I remembered thinking I’d like to be like her.” During the day Estelle studied to become a Division 2 nurse and at night she worked as a ward clerk to pay the bills. After begrudgingly spending her 40th birthday at a Goulburn Valley Health orientation day, she hasn’t looked back. “That was the big turning point in my career, getting a job in ICU and being exposed to critical unwell patients,” she said. “I find you can really make a difference. “I think that really set the bar for me because I could see what you could do and how much more you can help patients, and that pushed me. “I decided I really loved being a nurse, I really loved my work and I loved my patients and I thought to be the best I could be I would go on further.” In 2012 Estelle began a two-year course online with the University of South Australia to convert her qualification to Bachelor of Nursing. “It was tough with full-time uni, working full-time in ICU and looking after critically unwell patients which can be really, really sad,” she said.

BETT Y | April 2017 | Issue 1

After graduation Estelle proudly accepted a sought-after graduate position at the hospital. “I was really lucky to get a grad position,” she said. “I had four children so I had my eldest daughter doing Year 12 which is a massive year and my youngest start Prep — and here I am in the middle of doing my grad nurse program and juggling everything.” Estelle has since gone on to postgraduate studies in rural critical care, training medical and nursing staff in ED part-time while currently rotating between ED and ICU with her sights set on a promotion to clinical nurse specialist. “I’m not sure if I’ll become a midwife in the future but I’m very happy with where I am now.”

“

When I went on maternity leave I thought, ‘I don’t want to sit at a computer all day and talk to four people’ so I thought I would retrain as a nurse.

”

Career change

Never too late for change By Alana Christensen Photo: Madeleine Caccianiga

hroughout her life, a desire to help others has driven Kim Vallance and informed her career from an early age when she set her sights on becoming a police officer. “I can remember I was in Year 10 and all of a sudden I decided, ‘that’s what I want to do’,” she said. “I don’t know why, I just decided it would be exciting. It was something where you could help people, it was an exciting career but it was also a career that wasn’t a traditional woman’s career.” It had been a desire to help others that drove Kim into the police force. Then, as she changed and the years in her job ticked by, she realised she was ready for a change. “It wasn’t until I was in my early to mid-20s where I found policing wasn’t fulfilling me in the way I was hoping,” she said. “It wasn’t helping people in the way that I wanted to help people and I thought I had more to offer in regards to helping people in a different aspect.” By her late 20s, Kim had started to explore her options for entering nursing and preparing to make the change. Although she later retired from the police force, the timing at that

point wasn’t right for Kim, who had just welcomed her son Grant. “I just thought, ‘what are you doing here Kim? You’ve got a brand new baby, why don’t you focus on him for the time

“

You’ve just got to do it. Life is short, you only get one go at it, I don’t want to live with regrets.

”

being?’ and that’s what I did,” she said. After taking some time away to focus on her newborn and family, Kim returned to pursuing nursing about two-and-ahalf years later. “I was talking to someone who’s a registered nurse and she encouraged me to apply and that was on a Friday night — and I literally couldn’t wait until Monday,” she said. “So I enrolled and came back and said to my husband, ‘by the way, I’d better tell you, I enrolled to do nursing’ and he said, ‘Kim, you’ve always wanted to do it, you’ve always wanted to do nursing’.” Now approaching the completion of her Diploma of Nursing with Goulburn Ovens Institute of TAFE, the new direction is a fulfilment of a dream for Kim, something she’s ticked off her bucket list. “You’ve just got to do it. Life is short, you only get one go at it, I don’t want to live with regrets.” 

BETT Y | April 2017 | Issue 1

ZO740432

SKILLS AND JOBS CENTRES

Love

t a h t e v Lo s d n e c s n a ttrime and place BETT Y | April 2017 | Issue 1

By Emma Carinci

Suzanna Sheed Independent Member for Shepparton District Where would our communities be without the contribution of women. We are grandmothers, mothers, sisters and aunts, but in the Shepparton District we are also strong business and community leaders.

Declo Bisimwa and Consolate Lwanga have the ultimate love story. The couple endured a long-distance relationship for eight years — with one in Africa and one in Shepparton, but this was only the tip of the iceberg with talk of an arranged marriage threatening to ruin their happy ending. Declo and Consolate, who are happily settled in Shepparton today with a baby, tell their unique tale of love.

Our women are strong, and leading the change in our region in a variety of fields. On Mother’s Day we honour our mothers, and every day, we recognise the great work our women continue to do in our homes, our businesses, on the sporting field and in the wider community. Funded from Parliament’s Electorate Office and Communications budget. Authorised by: Suzanna Sheed, 5 Vaughan Street, Shepparton VIC 3630.

Electorate Office: * 5 Vaughan Street, Shepparton ' (03) 5831 6944 7 (03) 5831 6836  suzanna.sheed@parliament.vic.gov.au www.suzannasheed.com.au Suzanna Sheed

@SheedSuzanna

rue love does not know the boundaries of time, place and external influences. This is a truth that Consolate Lwanga of Shepparton knows all too well. “When you love someone, you can’t say I’ll love him for one week and then go to another,” she said. “You can’t just love them one day and leave them the next — you’ve got to follow it through with all your heart.” This belief kept Consolate strong during eight years of a long-distance relationship with the love of her life, Declo Bisimwa. The inseparable pair met through mutual friends at a shopping centre in Uganda in 2007, when they were both 19 years old. Although both were born in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Declo was living in Uganda as a refugee, while >>> Consolate was visiting her cousin.

Since meeting in 2007, Declo Bisimwa and Consolate Lwanga endured a long distance relationship for eight years. Now, they have started their own family with daughter Joëlle (pictured at six months). Joëlle is learning their language, Swahili, as well as English.

0438 313 861 E: photographywithprue@shepparton.net.au

Photo: Julie Mercer.

BETT Y | April 2017 | Issue 1

Photo: Liz Arcus Photography.

>>> After exchanging phone numbers, Consolate ended up watching Declo play soccer. Keen to make his feelings clear to her, Declo asked Consolate out on a date. “When I met him I just thought he was a nice, normal guy. There was nothing else in the back of my mind at that point,” Consolate said. Despite this, it did not take long before the pair had fallen head over heels. Beautiful first memories Declo made their first date one to remember, taking Consolate to a beautiful restaurant in Uganda — something most African refugees were unable to afford. “The money I spent that night was … for groceries that week,” Declo laughed. Three dates and one month passed before Consolate had to return home to Bukava. The next year, Consolate returned to Uganda for three months to visit Declo and in March 2009 the couple spent a week together before Consolate drove Declo to the airport to catch his flight to Australia. Learning to live apart Financial constraints on top of studying commitments meant they could not visit one another. Declo was also worried that

BETT Y | April 2017 | Issue 1

if he left Australia without citizenship, it would be too difficult to re-enter the country. “For the first two years, I couldn’t go even one day without calling her,” Declo said. “In the third year, though, things started to get really hard. It was the most stress I’d ever had in my life.” Declo was getting more involved in the community, meeting new people and wondering when or if he would ever get to be with Consolate. “I’d never seen any girl like her in my whole life. She was an intelligent, strong and beautiful woman and the one I wanted to spend the rest of my life with,” he said. This challenging situation was mutual. “It was my first experience of true love and when you have that, you need to stay with each other and need to actually be with each other,” she said. “Every single day I wanted to see him.” Unfortunately, there were other factors at play, making the long-distance relationship even harder for the couple. An unwanted suitor Several suitors visited Consolate’s home to proposition her parents for her marriage, but she was adamant she and Declo would be together again one day. “There was one who was a doctor

and he just finished his degree and was looking for a wife, so he asked my parents’ permission to marry me,” Consolate said. “My parents said, ‘how can you refuse this man?’ “I said no, the man I loved was not here, he was in Australia. “I cried every night. I’d already met the one for me.” When Declo heard what had happened, he decided something needed to be done. So in 2013, his relatives visited Consolate’s parents. “In our culture, if I wanted Consolate’s family to know I’m serious about her, I have to send respected elders to offer a cow to her parents,” he said. “The cow means they were coming to close the door or make an agreement that their boy was in a relationship with their daughter.” “It’s like I was booked in,” Consolate laughed. The greatest gift Another year went by and on Consolate’s 26th birthday, a call from Declo turned out to be the greatest gift. Declo proposed to Consolate over the phone. Of course, she said yes. “It was just ‘wow’. I didn’t sleep that night because I was very excited,” Consolate said. A few months later, after obtaining

Australian citizenship, Declo went to the Congo to celebrate in traditional style with a colourful engagement party. Both families got along well and adored their new additions. Declo also found the perfect ring for the girl of his dreams and formalised the proposal while he was home. However, the distance factor was not over yet. Declo had to head back to Australia, while Consolate stayed in Uganda for three months waiting to obtain a visa. “He’d left again! Oh my gosh. Those three months felt like three years,” Consolate said. A new home Finally, Consolate made it to Australia. Shepparton’s Marita Taverner, who Declo and Consolate said was like a mother to them, welcomed Consolate into her home until the big day. “In our culture you cannot move into your partner’s house or stay there overnight until you are married,” Declo said. “It was very difficult after all that time apart, but we are mature Christian people who respect culture.

Photo: Liz Arcus Photography.

“I wanted to honour my wife in that way.” On July 25, 2015, Declo and Consolate were married at St Brendan’s Catholic Church, Shepparton. Two months later, they found out they were expecting a child and in June 2016, Joëlle was born. After years of emotional ups and downs and thousands of international phone calls, Consolate and Declo now

have their happily ever after. The long-distance relationship was one of the hardest things Consolate has ever endured, but she said it was “worth the wait”. “When you love someone, you have to be prepared to suffer for them. That’s what we did,” Declo said. “Consolate is more than special — she is my blessing.” 

Mother’s Day Breast Screening Reminder With Mother’s Day around the corner, the team at Goulburn Valley Imaging would like to remind local women to look after themselves and make an appointment for a breast screen. Goulburn Valley Imaging is the only clinic in the region that performs breast imaging. We’re staffed by specialist doctors, breast care nurses and fully accredited female radiographers.

Diagnostic

There are two types of breast imaging available.

Goulburn Valley Imaging has always been at the forefront of breast cancer imaging. We offer 3D breast tomosynthesis technology. This fast, low dose and clinically superior 3D mammography offers the following advantages over conventional 2D mammography:

Screening Breast screens are the best way to find the early signs of breast cancer. Regular breast screening can detect any unsuspected lumps and lesions that may need further investigation. Breast screening is free and takes about 10 minutes. You do not need a doctor’s referral and the screen is performed by a female radiographer. BreastScreen Victoria reports that 50 per cent of women diagnosed with breast cancer are aged between 50 and 69. Women 50 — 70 years old are invited every 2 years and women in their 40’s and over 74 are encouraged to discuss the benefits with their doctor.

Diagnostic screenings are performed for patients who have found a lump or had a suspicious clinical finding. Diagnostic mammography requires a referral from your GP.

•A greater than 20 per cent increase in invasive breast cancer detection •Up to 40 per cent reduction in false positives recalls Women aged over 40 who would like a free breast screen with Goulburn Valley Imaging should book at breastscreen.org.au or call 13 20 50. Appointments for diagnostic breast imaging referred by your GP can be made with Goulburn Valley Imaging on 1300 797 484.

Goulburn Valley Imaging 104 Nixon Street, Shepparton Ph: 1300 797 484 BETT Y | April 2017 | Issue 1

Prof ile

JOURNEY OF LOSS AND COURAGE By Jessica Ball

More than two decades ago, a family made the move to the countryside in the Goulburn Valley with hopes of spending more time together. Little did they know how much they would come to lean on the community they decided to call home. From a life-shattering diagnosis to the ongoing search for a cure, Robyn Smith shares her gut-wrenching tale of loss and courage.

BETT Y | April 2017 | Issue 1

GV Health FOUNDATION The GV Health Foundation is committed to raising funds to enhance the clinical and community services for the people who live in our Goulburn Valley. With the ever increasing demand for Hospital and Health care services, and the rapid advancement of modern medical technology, realising this goal is a never ending task. Each year many individuals, organisations and patients give generously to the Foundation with donations, bequests and grants. One hundred percent of donations received by the Foundation are allocated to the particular areas nominated by the donors.

For this continued support we THANKYOU

Celebrating Christmas as a family in 2008 are (left to right): Robyn Smith, Dene Rodger, Mick Rodger, Martine Rodger and Georgia Rodger

GV Health Graham Street, Shepparton 3630 PH 03 58 322192 Email carmel.johnson@gvhealth.org.au BETT Y | April 2017 | Issue 1

Local families and friends supporting the MND Fundraising Ball in Melbourne.

At Georgia Rodger’s 15th birthday are (left to right): Martine Rodger, Robyn Smith, Mick Rodger, Dene Rodger and Georgia Rodger.

hen Robyn Smith’s father-inlaw was diagnosed with motor neurone disease in 2003, her husband Mick Rodger was convinced he had it too. He did, but it wasn’t until three years later that he discovered this fate. “It was just devastating,” Robyn said. “We walked out into the street and the guy just said ‘good luck’. “I think even with cancer you have ‘we’re going to try this treatment, we’re going to operate, try this, try that’, but there was nothing. “He just shook our hands and we walked out into Royal Parade in Carlton and we just embraced. “I can feel it like it was just yesterday. It was the end. There was no treatment, no cure, nothing to prolong things.” For more than an hour Robyn and Mick drove in silence. “It was around Seymour that he said, ‘I don’t want to tell anyone. I want to keep it totally secret so it doesn’t upset the kids’,” Robyn said. The local couple selflessly decided to wait and broke the news to their three children Dene, Georgia and Martine over the summer holidays when they could simply be together. For 18 anxiety-riddled months it was just the two of them. Robyn — who is well known in the Goulburn Valley for her sporting and

BETT Y | April 2017 | Issue 1

MND fundraising contributions — said crying would often turn to laughter as they made the most of the time they had left. “It was really hard to keep it hidden,” she said. “He was dealing with the stiff upper lip, dealing with the community as if everything was the same, making sure the kids were protected.”

“ PEOPLE JUST EMBRACED US … YOU FELT PEOPLE PUT THEIR ARMS AROUND YOU.

”

— Robyn Smith Once the family knew, the pair was determined to do something positive at a time when MND was a mostly unknown terminal disease. With the support of friends and family, the Mick Rodger Act to D-feet MND event was born. About 1500 people walked in solidarity to raise $72 000 for research. “People just embraced us … you felt

people put their arms around you,” Robyn said. “That really lifted his spirits. “To focus on something positive like that really helps you deal with it.” Surrounded by goodwill, Robyn said it was the community that helped make Mick’s final years incredibly rich. A few weeks after the third annual event, Mick died at home. But his legacy lives on. “He really hung on and got the last skerricks out of life,” Robyn said. “You just feel helpless. It just really inspires and motivates me to keep going. “When people come in their white T-shirts I always stand on the hill and it’s always overwhelming. “Mick and I were in tears the first couple of years and when you see people it’s a really powerful thing and my three kids feel the same way.” In February the event celebrated its 10th anniversary and has now grown to include other local families touched by the debilitating disease. This year Mick’s fundraising initiatives will reach the $1 million milestone with every cent going to research. “For Mick there was nothing, for MND sufferers there is nothing,” Robyn said. “The gene was identified in 2009 because of the consistency of (their fundraising efforts).

Robyn Smith is vicepresident of the International Association for Para Athletes with an Intellectual Disability, something she fits in between home, netball and work commitments.

“They’ve made progress … that’s really inspirational for us, to know it’s actually making a difference.” For Robyn, the chance of giving someone more hope than they had when they walked out of the doctor’s office keeps her focused on the fundraising efforts, but she is most proud of how strong her children have become and the difference the family has made in the lives of others. Their journey has not been easy but it has made them stronger. “A lot of people think ‘how did you do it?’, but when you’re in the moment you know that things aren’t looking good but you actually work in a day-to-day situation,” Robyn said. “We learnt a lot about ourselves and other people and about how we could contribute and that life isn’t about you.” While Robyn remains a shining light in the community, Mick’s death has not been without its impact. Milestones are tough but she said grief often crept up out of nowhere. “We sought counselling to seek strategies to deal with those times and we had to do that because you think that you’re fine but actually you need some strategies,” she said. “We still have moments. “I’ve been lucky enough to find another partner — and who would have thought that would happen?” 

Celebrating International Midwives Day and International Nurses Day GV Health has a dedicated team of nurses and midwives who provide outstanding care to families in our local community every day. On International Midwives Day (5 May 2017) and International Nurses Day (12 May 2017), we say ‘thank you’ for your care and compassion.

Graham Street, Shepparton E enquiry@gvhealth.org.au

P 03 5832 2322 Like us on Facebook

Healthy Communities BETT Y | April 2017 | Issue 1

Prof ile

GIRL POWER TACKLES FOOTY By Jessica Ball Main photo: Holly Curtis

ngela Foley ran through the banner and into history. Playing for the Adelaide Crows, she was not only part of history by competing in the inaugural AFL Women’s season, her team won the grand final too on March 25. The former Shepparton woman said the amazing experience of winning and being a part of national history was something she would hold dear in her heart forever. “To come away and win is just indescribable at the moment, it’s something I’m pretty proud of and something that will be my highest sporting achievement,” Angela said. “This season was a thing of firsts (for me), it was first AFL Women’s league, first ever Adelaide Women’s Football Club team that I was involved in, and I was the first ever vice-captain that was nominated by my peers.”

BETT Y | April 2017 | Issue 1

Adelaide Crows players (wearing clash guernseys) celebrate winning the AFLW Grand Final game. Photo: AAP.

First game for the Adelaide Crows Donning the blue, red and gold in February, Angela took on Greater Western Sydney in round one of the inaugural AFL Women’s season alongside her Adelaide Crows teammates. The former Shepparton woman said it was an unbelievable experience. “It was a home game and the atmosphere was amazing,” Angela said. “The sound was electric and something

I will remember for the rest of my life. “We knew it was going to be something big, something special, but it’s been surreal.” After dominating their opening match, the Crows belted out the club song with pride. “To win in front of a home crowd, we were so proud of our achievements,” Angela said. “To get the win and sing that song, it BETT Y | April 2017 | Issue 1

Angela Foley of the Adelaide Crows (wearing clash guernsey) eyes the ball during the AFLW Grand Final against the Brisbane Lions. Photo: AAP.

“

To come away and win is just indescribable at the moment, it’s something I’m pretty proud of and something that will be my highest sporting achievement.

”

BETT Y | April 2017 | Issue 1

was a happy moment — there was lots of energy in the rooms.” The primary school teacher said AFLW was a great step forward for women’s sport. “Little girls can now aspire to follow in our footsteps,” she said. “We are setting a pathway for them and when I was their age there was no pathway. “Now, if they want to do this they can.”

but it wasn’t something I thought about doing myself.” After graduation, Angela moved to Darwin and joined the Waratahs, where her football went to the next level. In two-and-a-half seasons she played in and won three grand finals, with two club best and fairest awards, two league best and fairest awards and two best player in the grand final awards under her belt.

The journey Making history First picking up a football with her older Angela never set out with the goal of brother Brett and dad John as a child, playing at an AFL level. Instead, she Angela made her Auskick debut in Preps focused on being the best footballer she but hung up the boots after one season. could be. But as plans for the women’s It was not until university that she competition were unveiled, it became a found her passion for the game. real possibility. “I didn’t play competitively until my When Adelaide’s joint submission first year of uni in 2010 when Uni Games to field a team with AFL Northern were held in Bendigo and I haven’t Territory got the go-ahead, Angela said stopped since,” she said. she thought that would be her chance. “I love the team sport that it is. Ahead of the first Women’s National “It’s not just you, it’s 15 other girls on Draft, the club announced the midfielder the field, and if you make a mistake you as a priority pick. have mates who can help you out.” For Angela it was a childhood dream From Uni Games, Angela became an come true. inaugural player for Bendigo Thunder. “It’s going to be the biggest It was there she first heard about the possibility of a women’s AFL competition. achievement in my sporting life,” she said. “In Prep I wanted to play basketball for “Peta Searle, a highly regarded coach, Australia. I always wanted to be an elite came to Bendigo and spoke to us back athlete. in 2012 and she mentioned that by 2020 “As a group we are the first Adelaide there would be an AFL for women,” she women’s football team and no-one can said. take that away. “I thought it was amazing that in eight years women would be at that elite level “I think that’s pretty special.”

ASK THE EXPERTS

Here’s why Gardeners Love Bare Root Plants Bare root plants are a clever choice, allowing people to plant in winter and enjoy the impact of an advanced tree in Spring. Less costly than a potted advanced tree, and with a variety of choices, these plants will save you money while not compromising on style. Tracy Lamont, Billabong Garden Complex Manager, offers her advice on choosing and planting bare root plants.

What is a bare root plant? Bare root plants are deciduous, field grown trees, shrubs or roses that have been dug up from the soil in their dormant state — so no soil remains on the root ball. Why do gardeners love them? You can plant advanced trees and shrubs in their less expensive bare rooted form and enjoy the impact of an advanced tree in spring — without the cost of a potted advanced tree. It is also easier to plant as the ground is softer during the winter months of bare root season, and the smaller roots mean you don’t have to dig a huge hole when planting. Selecting the right tree can assist with energy efficiency in your home. Deciduous trees provide welcome shade in summer and in winter when they lose their leaves allow the winter sun in. Can all plants be purchased bare rooted? No, it is only some varieties of deciduous plants including ornamentals, standards, weepers, fruit trees and roses. Some of the most popular sold at Billabong include pears, maples, silver birch, elms, weeping cherries, iceberg roses, apples, peaches, figs,

and more. Stock lists can be found on the Billabong website in late May. What you need to know for successful bare rooted plantings? Roots need to be protected and new roots encouraged to grow, for the best success with bare rooted plants. Pruning is essential to bring it back into balance with its cut root system and it will give it the best chance to flourish and form a strong framework. If you are not confident in this process, the Billabong staff will be happy to assistance. Prepare a hole that is one and a half times the size of the root system. Use your own soil to fill around the plant and DO NOT add composts, fertiliser or potting mix. Plant to the level that it has been grown at and water with a bucket of water and seaweed solution. Seaweed is a tonic, it is like giving your plant a Berocca. An information sheet can be found on the Billabong website. Happy gardening, we just know once you have purchased a bare root plant you will be hooked!

Discover exciting new plants and everyday garden varieties, water features, plant health products, ideas and inspiration, the gorgeous gift shop or enjoy lunch or coffee in the café

Billabong has it all...

Experience it today Open 7 Days, until 5 pm weekdays and 4 pm weekends

Garden • Gifts • Café

295 Numurkah Rd, Shepparton T: 5821 8632 www.billabonggardencomplex.com.au

BillabongGardenComplex Billabong Garden Complex is a Social Enterprise of ConnectGV

BETT Y | April 2017 | Issue 1

Prof ile

At just 17

Story and photo by Jessica Ball

hile her peers were busy completing Year 12 and celebrating their foray into adulthood, Shannon Tharratt had bigger plans. At just 17 she launched a catering business from her parents’ Oxley home and within months of getting her driver’s licence it had evolved into a bustling local café. Shannon Tharratt is not your average teenager. Now 19, her café One Wild Apple has been serving customers for more than a year. Homeschooled on the family’s Upper Lurg farm she discovered a passion for event planning and hospitality at a young age. After finishing Year 10 Shannon was faced with two options: go to mainstream school to study VCE before going on to further study, or go straight to TAFE. Determined to be her own boss Shannon said there was no point wasting time. “I just skipped the middle step — I don’t think I would have been as inclined to do so if I was already at school,” Shannon said. “From my early teens I started saving because I knew I wanted to do something big. “I’m lucky I knew so early what I wanted to do.” While at TAFE Shannon decided to start a catering business but not long after its launch an opportunity to purchase a café presented itself. She said the café was the perfect fit and she jumped in head first. Defining moments Cooking was always a big part of farm life and even as a six-year-old Shannon showed a knack in the kitchen. “Mum always did a lot of cooking with us,” she said. “She was such a home baker when we were younger, we always had homemade bread, cakes, everything. “Looking back at old photographs there are lots of me pretending I have a cooking show or wearing this big chef ’s hat we had in the dress-up box while I was helping mum.” But it was a surprise 15th birthday trip to the Langham Melbourne high tea that helped define Shannon’s future. “It was the most amazing thing I had ever done, I always loved tea parties but it was just very fancy,” she said.

“On the way home I thought, ‘I want to do this’.” A leap of faith Starting a café is easy and after putting her life savings into the business Shannon said the scariest thing was not having a back-up plan. “It’s been a very steep learning curve,” she said. “I knew it was going to be hard work but I didn’t know what that really meant. “There were a lot of challenges going into business, but I was surprised by how many personal challenges there were. “I’ve had to make a lot of personal scarifies. When the family was going to America for Christmas I couldn’t go and I’ve had to miss things because I’ve had to stay in and do the bookwork or the orders. “Since buying the business I haven’t had a single day that I haven’t thought about it.” Coffee with a side of friendship But Shannon said for every challenge she tackled there was an equal reward. “I have been really amazed at how accepting and encouraging people have been,” she said. “It’s been lovely to see people open up their horizons and trying new things. “It’s a coffee shop and that’s what most people see it as, I make everyone their coffee on their way to work and give people their afternoon sugar hit. “But it’s more than just getting people their coffee, it’s the relationships that I now have and the community that has built around it. “I know everyone’s order when they walk in the door, I hear about their weekends and I think that’s what I like about the business.” When asked what her advice was for people wanting to start their own business, Shannon said just do it, but be realistic. “If it’s something you want to do don’t keep putting it off for some time in the future, just start planning towards it now,” she said. “You can never do too much research going into something. “You’ve got to find a good balance between what’s going to keep you happy and inspired and what’s also going to pay the bills.” BETT Y | April 2017 | Issue 1

Entertaining Monichino Wines

2013 MONICHINO CHARDONNAY RRP $13

TRAVIS CLYDESDALE

Mitchelton Wines’ chief winemaker

Terry Monichino, chief wine maker, prides himself with his handcrafted boutique wines, made with passion, using traditional winemaking methods. The 2013 is a classic Chardonnay, full bodied rich and enticing. With its straw coloured appearance, aromas of lush American Oak Vanilla with burnt honey, melon and peach which merge in a rich flavour filled combination and result in the wine’s buttery malolactic characteristics.

etty magazine caught up with Mitchelton Wines’ chief winemaker Travis Clydesdale, delving into winter warmers to enjoy as the cooler weather sets in. Similar to many agricultural pursuits, the wine industry has witnessed a delayed onset of harvest this season. Cool and largely wet conditions throughout spring resulted in most areas tracking up to a month later than the norm. Early results are pointing to wines with ample fruit character and bright natural acidity. In terms of standout performers, aromatic white varieties such as Riesling have seemingly benefited greatly from the extended ripening period with lifted floral impact and fresh zesty acidity a feature. For those with a penchant for reds, early parcels of Shiraz from Heathcote and the Nagambie region are displaying exceptional colour, flavour and overall balance, and will no doubt provide great value for consumers when they are eventually released. Those looking to enjoy the region’s finest drop now rather than later should pour a glass of a full bodied red. With flavour depth, a Shiraz is a great winter warmer. In the cooler months medium-bodied reds are best for those who savour a lighter style. Try sipping on a savoury varietal or blend. White wine drinkers may lean towards more mature styles like a Marsanne which is unique to the Goulburn Valley region with a bit more texture and body, or a Chardonnay. Dessert wine — like Botrytis Riesling and fortified Muscat or Topaque — is the perfect accompaniment to a cheese board enjoyed in front of the fire.

“

...wines with ample fruit character...

”

BETT Y | April 2017 | Issue 1

Monichino Wines

2013 MONICHINO BARBERA RRP $19 A specialty of Monichino Wines is the traditional Italian varietals which include Pinot Grigio and Barbera. Monichino’s 2013 Barberra is a wine that has developed great fruit characteristics, and is nice and round with smooth lingering flavours. The subtle richness of plum, cherry and liquorice is complemented by tantalising spices with soft, mellow French oak. The flavours follow onto the mediumbodied palate, which has a smooth lingering finish.

Mitchelton Wines

2014 MITCHELTON CRESCENT RRP $28 Mitchelton’s Crescent blends the ever popular Shiraz with the more exotic Mourvèdre and Grenache varieties to achieve a rich yet elegant style. Aromas of mulberry, apple skin and fruit cake combine before sumptuous tannins underpin a medium weighted palate full of complex fruit cake flavours, finely structured with ripe tannins and a thread of charry oak. The blend takes its name from the crescent-shaped sandbar which is home to Mitchelton Estate’s oldest Shiraz vines. The 2014 Mitchelton Crescent won gold at the Royal Melbourne Wine Awards.

Mitchelton Wines

2014 HEATHCOTE SHIRAZ RRP $40 Mitchelton’s Heathcote Shiraz is sourced from two fastidiously maintained vineyards located on the renowned Mt Camel Ridge. Rich in ancient jasper, greenstone and ironstone, the unique Cambrian soils have been formed over 600 million years and provide the ideal profile for an opulent and full-bodied Shiraz. Bright crimson in colour, the 2014 Heathcote Shiraz displays hints of spice over dark cherry and plum. The nose exhibits a complexity of savoury, earth notes and a hint of eucalyptus. On the palate there is intense dark cherry, plum and cocoa. This is a wine of great power which faithfully portrays its origins.

Taking a food adventure

he menu is always evolving at Anaya Restaurant and Tapas Bar in Shepparton. Owner and head chef Karan Bisht has been in the industry for 10 years and lives by a food philosophy that incorporates care, freedom and reducing the restaurant’s food waste footprint. Before Anaya, Karan was working in Melbourne but felt as if he was suffocating. He dreamed of beginning something different that would give him a sense of happiness, and so Anaya was born. “I just wanted a bit more of a challenge, an adventurous path,” he said.

“We didn’t want to go for any cuisine, we wanted to utilise ingredients. If you know how to use an ingredient 100 ways, that’s interesting to me.” The inspiration behind the food at Anaya is to cook with as much seasonal and local ingredients as possible. “The way I want people to eat is to share food and socialise,” he said. “Tapas means to eat while you drink and drink while you eat.”

MOTHER’S DAY SET MENU Book Now!

Lunch and Dinner Functions also available anytime!

RECIPE: QUAIL Za’atar spiced quail served with braised silverbeet, pine nuts and sultanas. Serves two small share plates.

Ingredients: • Two quails • 1 L of water • 210 g Za’atar spice • 200 g salt • 1 bunch silver beet, roughly chopped • 500 g butter • 500 ml olive oil • ¼ cup pine nuts • ¼ cup sultanas

• Take the quails out of the mixture and season with salt and pepper. • Heat butter and 300 ml oil in a frying pan on a high heat. Place the quails in the pan, skin side down, cooking them as fast as you can. Sprinkle excess Za’atar spice on top. • Flip the quails when the skin is crispy. Place the pan into the preheated oven and leave to cook for a couple of minutes. • Once the quails are tender and cooked,

Method: • Debone the quails, leaving the leg and wing bones intact. • Combine 1 litre of water with 200 g of Za’atar spice and 200 g of salt, soaking the quails in the mixture for a couple of hours in the fridge. • Preheat oven to 290°C. • Braise the silver beet on a high heat in 200 ml of olive oil. Once cooked, put aside for later.

Anaya Restaurant and Tapas Bar 26 Fryers St, Shepparton | (03) 5812 9138 | Opening hours 4 pm – 9 pm

take the pan out of the oven and place the quails on a resting rack, skin side down. Keep the olive oil and butter mixture. • Place sultanas and pine nuts in the pan with the olive oil and butter mixture and cook on a high heat. Bring the mixture to the boil and then add the braised silver beet, cooking for one minute. • Spoon the silver beet mixture onto a plate and place the quails on top.

Recipes

Wardrobe Cake W

hen I was 14, I applied for a work experience placement in the wardrobe department at Pitlochry Festival Theatre. Much to my delight they said yes, and so I headed up the A9 for a week of stitching, sizing and tea-sipping. I completely and utterly adored it. Two weeks later, I got home from school to a note on the table asking me to “call the dress ladies”. They offered me a Saturday job and I didn’t leave again for two years, working on pantos and the busy summer season. On my 16th birthday, the lovely Iona made me a Guinness cake. It was completely delicious and felt even more indulgent considering the fact that I had never even tasted Guinness before. I am now aware that its proper title is Black Velvet Cake, which makes it even more fitting for my work as a seamstress, but I think it will forever be wardrobe cake to me. • An excerpt from Gatherings by Flora Shedden, published by Hachette Australia in hardback at $39.99 and ebook $19.99. Ingredients: Serves 8–10 • 250 g unsalted butter, plus extra for greasing • 300 ml Guinness • 100 g dark chocolate (minimum 54 per cent cocoa solids) • 50 g cocoa powder • 300 g self-raising flour • 300 g caster sugar • 2 eggs • 100 ml double cream • 1 tsp vanilla bean paste

Photo: Laura Edwards

BETT Y | April 2017 | Issue 1

For the icing and decoration: • 150 g unsalted butter, softened • 150 g icing sugar • 200 g cream cheese • 50 g good-quality white chocolate, curls or grated (optional) Method: • Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F), Gas Mark 4. Grease a 20 cm round loose-bottomed cake tin and line it with baking paper. • Put the butter, Guinness, chocolate and cocoa into a large saucepan set over a low heat until the butter and chocolate have just melted and no more — do not let the mixture boil. Then stir in the flour and caster sugar. Once combined, add the eggs, cream and vanilla. • Pour the batter into your prepared tin and bake for 45–50 minutes or until a knife inserted into the centre of the cake comes out clean. Allow to cool in the tin for 15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack and leave to cool completely. • To make the icing, beat the butter and icing sugar together in a bowl until pale and fluffy. Add the cream cheese and beat again for 1 minute. • Cut the top off the cake to level it if required, then spoon the icing on to the top of the cake and spread it across the surface to the edges. Decorate with the white chocolate, if you like.

Recipes

Our Nonna’s Tray Bake

onna introduced me to this dish and it has turned into a total family favourite. I always serve it with the simplest of green salads to cut through the rich flavours, but it’s full of veg as it is, so you can also pop some spinach on the bottom of a shallow dish instead and portion the baked chicken and vegetables out in that, allowing the spinach to wilt underneath. Don’t panic if you can’t find the little Spanish Padron peppers … and be warned that about one in 10 are hot, so leave them out if you prefer less heat. An excerpt from The Louise Parker Method — Lean for Life: The Cookbook published by Hachette Australia in hardback at $39.99.

Ingredients: Serves: 4 • 2 tsp sweet smoked paprika • 1 tbsp olive oil • 2 red onions, quartered • 2 yellow peppers, cut into chunks • 100 g Spanish Padron peppers, cut into chunks • 100 g chorizo, cut into chunks • 2 garlic cloves, sliced • 200 g fresh plum tomatoes • 200 g green beans • 1 tbsp red wine vinegar • 4 large skinless bone-in chicken thighs • A good handful of flat-leaf parsley, chopped, to serve

Method: • Preheat the oven to 200°C/400°F/Gas Mark 6. Mix the sweet smoked paprika powder into the olive oil and spread evenly on a baking dish. Prepare the onions, peppers and Padron peppers and add to the baking dish, along with the chorizo and garlic. • Bake without the chicken for 20 minutes, giving it a gentle shake halfway through. Now add the tomatoes, green beans and vinegar and give it a gentle stir. Arrange the chicken on top and bake for a further 20 minutes in the centre of the oven. • Sprinkle with plenty of flat-leaf parsley to serve. Serve with a simple green salad dressed with red wine vinegar.

Photo: Louise Hagger.

BETT Y | April 2017 | Issue 1

Prizes

Giveaway time!

WATCH THE TIME GO BY

Never lose track of time with this beautiful Cluse Watch from Blizzards Fine Jewellers, valued at $198. The rose gold watch features a grey leather watch band and an interchangeable black and rose gold leather band. We have one of these elegant watches to give away.

LEAN AND DELICIOUS Teach yourself to eat beautifully, eat lean and transform your body forever — with The Louise Parker Method — Lean for Life: The Cookbook, published by Hachette Australia. This jam-packed book, valued at $39.99, features 120 fuss-free recipes. We have two copies of this tantalising cookbook to give away.

FEASTS GREAT AND SMALL Take the effort out of entertaining with a collection of delicious modern dishes, staple snacks, salads and sides, interesting bakes and perfect puddings.

INDULGENT HAMPER Pamper someone you love with the ultimate indulgent hamper from the team at Creative Styles. Within this on-trend, reusable wire hamper (ideal for use in the garden) are inspiration cards, fruit and nut chocolate bark, a soy candle, homemade fudge and white chocolate raspberries.

Gatherings by Flora Shedden, published by Hachette Australia and valued at $39.99, offers just that. We have two copies of this enticing cookbook to give away.

We have one of these beautiful hampers, valued at $60, to give away.

How to enter

To go in the draw for one of these prizes email your full name, address, daytime contact number and note which prize you would like to win by Friday, May 26 to win@bettymagazine.com.au Winners will be randomly picked and notified by phone and email on Wednesday, May 31.

BETT Y | April 2017 | Issue 1

LONG LASTING LIP COLOUR If you want a lipstick that won’t be ‘kissed off ’, then Lipsense by SeneGence is for you. We are giving away a fantastic starter pack valued at $110; including 2 gorgeous lipsticks, a moisturising gloss and lipstick remover.

SHEPPARTON JAGUAR LAND ROVER, NOW OPEN INTRODUCING THE JAGUAR AND LAND ROVER RANGE Efficiency or performance? Ride comfort or driving dynamics? Connectivity or capability? Choosing a vehicle for yourself or your family is a huge responsibility, but who said you canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have it all.

SHEPPARTON JAGUAR LAND ROVER SHOP 2, 8001 MELBOURNE RD, KIALLA, VIC, 3631 TELEPHONE. 5822 5877 MOBILE. 0408 362 359

Precious Stories

Harris Scarfe Plaza, Maude St Mall, Shepparton. Ph: (03) 5831 4677 sales@blizzardsjewellers.com.au www.blizzardsjewellers.com.au

FINE JEWELLERS BLIZZARDS FINE JEWELLERS