Our Home Autumn 2022 — Echuca-Moama and district

AUTUMN 2022 | ISSUE 3

STYLE & DESIGN // HOME // LIFESTYLE // BACKYARD

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FROM THE

editor LOVE WHERE YOU LIVE With more time spent at home over the past two years, many Echuca-Moama residents are looking to move, renovate, redesign garden beds or turn their hands to a DIY project.

Our Home is here to show you decorating, building and gardening ideas, and inspiration from local businesses and your neighbours.

We are in awe of Gavin Law and Kate Hartley, who this issue shared their building story with Our Home. Doing most of the work themselves, the two-year labour of love is near completion. Additionally, Gavin is making some of the furniture — including a coffee table and dining table.

For the full story, turn to page 4.

For many homeowners the lawn can be the crown jewel of a happy home life. A perfect carpet of green is something all the family will enjoy; whether it’s a soft place for children to play or dogs to roll around on. If you’re struggling with growing your ideal lawn, there’s help available at Coolabah Turf. To find out more, turn to page 10.

Contents STYLE & DESIGN Colour is a hot topic: Create a sense of warmth in your home

14

Quality and comfort: Australian-made furniture is making a comeback

15

All you could want or need: Something special to enhance your home and lifestyle

30

Investing in the community: Community banking invests where customers live

31

HOME The personal touch: A two-year labour of love nears completion Build your dream home: Echuca brothers building forever homes for their clients Make the right choice: Let the experts help you choose the best flooring for your home

4 13 8

Take my breath away: See design ideas come to spectacular life in this stunning new house

16

Keep it light and bright: Openness and natural light served as the foundation for this new home

28

LIFESTYLE Love your lawn: Get the best lawn in your own backyard

10

Glorious garden tells a story: A tranquil sanctuary that soothes your soul

19

Building a strong relationship: Add living and entertaining space with an outside patio

27

BACKYARD Rock solid: Gardening guide for beginners

18

Hot property: Finding the perfect fire pit

20

Lush lawns: The key to keeping your lawn a gorgeous green

21

Perfect patios: Cover all your roofing needs

22

At Linen House’s Echuca outlet store, the linenloving team is ready to advise Our Home readers on fresh touches to their homes to create a stylish look.

See page 22.

When the day is done and it’s time to rest your head in your haven — the place we call home — there’s no-one better than Echuca’s Forty Winks’ trained staff to ensure a blissful slumber. Flip over to page 21 to read how they can help.

You’ll find so much more in this edition of Our Home, so grab a cuppa, settle comfortably on the couch and enjoy the motivating stories.

Until next edition.

COVER: Gladys’ relaxing garden featured on page 19.

Photography by Steve Huntly.

WRITERS McPherson Media Group SUB-EDITING Sandy Lloyd

PHOTOGRAPHY Steve Huntley ADVERTISING Phone: 5482 1111

PUBLISHED BY Riverine Herald, PO Box 21, Echuca VIC 3564 (03) 5482 1111 OUR HOME // AUTUMN 2022 // 3

THE PERSONAL

touch

To say this new home build is a labour of love is an understatement. The owners have done most of the work themselves, right down to the furniture.

STORY & PHOTOGRAPHY: NICOLE THOMSON Family home: Gavin Law, Kate Hartley and their dog Billie at the front of their new house.

G

“Whenever we had the money and the time we did it bit by bit.

Two years later, the final touches are being put on the build.

At the time of writing, the house was about three to four weeks from being completely finished — a long way from where the project began.

avin Law and Kate Hartley purchased their 0.8 ha Echuca Village property in November 2019 with the intention to build a traditional, country-style, Queenslander home.

Gavin, owner-operator of Gavin Law Carpentry, and Kate have been working on their house when they are able to — as is often the case when working on your own home, their project gets put behind their customers’ projects.

“It’s been sort of a ‘when we can’ situation because it’s our own house,” Gavin said.

4 // OUR HOME // AUTUMN 2022

“Now we’re near the finish line, we’re just smashing it out.”

“We bought the land early 2019, and we drew the plans up ourselves, with a couple of alterations along the way,” Gavin said.

One of the alterations has been to an entire side of the house, rearranged to better suit their needs.

“You look at the plans, and then what it looks like internally now, it’s very different,” Kate said.

Home sweet home: The house is nearly finished.

“One end of the house has completely changed — we’ve moved a few doors, hallways and the alfresco fireplace.”

The design is based on a traditional Queenslander house and, true to form, has the charm of the style down to a fine art.

It features timber as a prominent feature throughout the home and a verandah wrapping around the house.

“It’s a traditional-style house, we wanted to build something a bit different,” Gavin said.

“We wanted to build something that not many people build.

“I’ve always loved ironbark, and all of the exposed timber in the house is ironbark — the bench tops, floors, alfresco, verandahs.”

One thing that hasn’t strayed from the plan for the couple’s house has been the commitment to prioritising local suppliers and artisans where possible, with Gavin picking up the task of building the furniture.

“Gavin is making all of our furniture to go in the house — our coffee table, dining table, and he’s made all the bench tops,” Kate said.

“It’s hard work choosing what timber to start with to build the furniture,” Gavin said.

“We’ve got a lot of timber left over from when we did the Echuca

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Distillery — all of our bench tops are made from timber left over from the distillery when we did all of the furniture there.

“All of the timber that we’re making our TV cabinet and our coffee table and dining table out of were from the old Morley Ford building that was there before the distillery.”

“The reclaimed timber matches in well with our ironbark, too — we’ve used so much timber that we want to make sure it all matches and isn’t a timber mess,” Kate said.

The stained glass window at the front door was also made locally, with a custom design.

“The windows at the front of the house took a very long time to come up with the design, but Glenda Phillips from in town did them for us,” Kate said.

“We’ve tried to keep everything as local as possible, and everything is except the windows and doors.”

Worth the wait: Gavin Law, Kate Hartley and their dog Billie. They’ve been working on the house since buying the block in November 2019.

Focal point: The high ceilings in the living room fill the house with bright natural light.

Artisan: The stained glass that surrounds the front doorway was designed and made locally.

Craftsmanship: Gavin made all of the bench tops with ironbark timber.

Custom kitchen: Big kick-boards and skirts give the kitchen a country-style feel, as well as the old-style details in the cabinetry.

6 // OUR HOME // AUTUMN 2022

Local support: Almost everything was sourced locally, including this fan from Roundabout Lighting in Echuca.

Is this the year you make your move?

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MAKE THE RIGHT CHOICE Choosing the best flooring for your home is one of the biggest decisions you can make, so let the experts help you.

W

hen it comes to making the right flooring choice, there are countless options in front of you.

Natural look: From carpets to tiles to floorboards, Choices Flooring has the right product for you.

That’s where the team at Choices Flooring Echuca can help.

The professional team has all the knowledge and know-how to make your life much easier.

When you walk through the doors at 188 Annesley St, you’ll be greeted by the friendly staff.

And despite the thousands of options around you, you can put your faith in Russell and Angela Reddie and the staff to know you’ve made the right decisions when you walk back out the door.

“We are a local family-owned business and want to help our customers as much as possible; we have been here in Echuca for more than 20 years,” Russell said.

“It’s very easy to get overawed and that’s where we like to keep things simple.

The choice is yours: The professional team has the knowledge to help you make the best choice.

“At Choices Flooring Echuca we’re a one-stop shop for all of your flooring needs.”

Choices Flooring has a fantastic range of carpets, with textured carpets currently one of the most popular on the market.

One of the standout products on the shop floor is the Brease range, which is an asthma and allergy-friendly carpet supported by the National Asthma Council Australia.

The product uses a range of systems to prevent the growth of bacteria, mould, mildew and fungi.

“We also have a wide range of different colours and styles available in the Brease collection,” Russell said.

The extensive range of carpets in only the beginning.

You’ll also find a large range of vinyl flooring at Choices Flooring, with their own brand, called Genero, which includes a wide variety of colours and styles.

Vinyl flooring continues to be popular among people in regional areas.

“People are attracted to the comfort and ease of replacement if there ever is any damage,” Russell said.

“You don’t have to worry about the temperature of the floors like you would in other places.”

Choices Flooring is also home to a wide range of tiling options.

“We’ve got everything from porcelain to feature tiles,” Russell said.

“Grey and darker colours have been popular recently but some of the latest houses we’ve done have gone for more of a neutral palette.

“In the end, it comes down to each person’s taste.”

Lots of options: Head in-store for a great range of tiles.

8 // OUR HOME // AUTUMN 2022

Best match: No matter your style there’s something to suit your home.

A wide range of roller blinds, shutters, verticals, sheers, outdoor blinds and awnings are also available in-store.

Carpet

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So if you’re looking for the latest trends in flooring and everything that’s new underfoot, then look no further than Choices Flooring Echuca.

Visit our showroom and let us help you find the floor you’ve been searching for, or contact us to book a free measure and quote today!

Choices Flooring Echuca 1/188 Annesley Street, Echuca 5482 3883 choicesflooring.com.au

Love your lawn The grass doesn’t have to be greener on the other side of the fence. You can have the best lawn in your own backyard with a minimum of effort.

STORY: CAITLYN GRANT. PHOTOGRAPHY: STEVE HUNTLEY & CATH GREY

I

f you’re in the market for backyard turf that will withstand the rough and tumble of kids and dogs, it’s best to choose a variety with a high wear tolerance and self-repairing characteristics.

Moama residents Stuart and Janine Milgate are living proof that magnificent results can be achieved by choosing a low-maintenance turf variety that’s well suited to your conditions and lifestyle.

The couple, who own two Labradors, installed Sir Walter DNA Certified Buffalo on the recommendation of the Coolabah Turf team — and they’ve never looked back.

“It’s just such a beautiful, hardy and drought-tolerant grass; I don’t put much water into it,” Stuart said.

“I simply follow Coolabah’s seasonal maintenance guide to the letter to keep it strong and healthy.

“We have two monstrous Labs who are very hard on the lawn, but it holds up so well, you wouldn’t even know they were there.”

10 // OUR HOME // AUTUMN 2022

Sir Walter DNA Certified Buffalo is an all-round turf variety that’s great with pets and kids and is well suited to the Australian climate.

Easy to install, drought-tolerant, selfrepairing and non-invasive, the Sir Walter is very low maintenance.

It has a broad, soft, luscious leaf that’s a great performer in high wear areas and is the number one seller and bestperforming grass for Aussie backyards.

Sir Walter is renowned for being the most versatile turf grass available for residential yard environments, performing well in both full sun and part shade.

The team at Coolabah Turf is well versed in providing for all properties — whether it be servicing professional landscape, commercial, council or DIY projects for homeowners — throughout regional and metropolitan Victoria.

For more information, visit: www.coolturf.com.au

No worries: Stuart and Janine Milgate on their low-maintenance turf.

BUILD YOUR NEW HOME WITH CAVALIER HOMES IN ECHUCA VISIT OUR INSPIRING SALES & DESIGN CENTRE LOCATED AT 230 HARE STREET ECHUCA SCAN TO FIND OUT MORE OR VISIT WWW.CAVALIERHOMES.COM.AU P: 03 5480 3770 E: GAYLE@CAVALIERHOMESGV.COM.AU

Home sweet home: Call Cavalier Homes to begin the journey to the perfect home.

BUILD YOUR

dream home

Echuca brothers are taking the time and effort to build forever homes for their clients.

STORY: GEORGIA ROSSITER.

W

ith a history of building homes for 60 years, the McHugh family knows how to build houses.

Goulburn Valley areas, so they know all there is to know about building in the region.

And Cavalier Homes directors — and Echuca brothers — Scott and Jason know how to do it with great service, individualised to the needs of each client.

They know everything you need to know about the area, from soil types and floodplains, to dry climates and everything in between.

For the McHugh brothers, it was an obvious decision to open a Cavalier Homes office in Echuca to provide the best building service for the area.

Emphasising the motto of ‘Everyday lives here’, the main goal of Cavalier Homes is to produce a house that will become your forever home.

It’s not about selling you the most expensive build option, either. The brothers want to work with their clients to build the perfect home for their budget, without compromising style and quality along the way.

With their expert knowledge, the local team is prepared to guide clients through the entire building process, from choosing the perfect floor plan for their lifestyle to what colour to paint the walls.

“We depend on being a rock-solid, consistent business,” Pam Hughes, the contract administrator in Cavalier Homes’ Echuca office, said.

“Starting with our people and systems to our communication and our buildings, we can be relied on.”

The team is made up of familiar faces from around the Echuca and wider

Outdoor living: Green spaces and outdoor dining areas make a house feel like a home.

“Our customers can meet the builder of their home and rest assured they’re being delivered a beautiful, quality build,” Pam said.

She said the advantage of local builders also extends to all aspects of construction.

Choose your own floor plan: Cavalier Homes builders will help you design a plan that suits you.

Providing the best of both worlds, Cavalier Homes has all the big builder components while being a smaller franchise, and is able to commit time and expertise to its customers.

“Our buyers prefer the flexibility and great service that comes with local builders,” Pam said.

Cavalier Homes offers a huge range of standard inclusions with Colorbond roofing, flyscreens to all windows and the addition of brickwork over all windows, sliding doors and the garage.

Popular homes currently being built include single-storey homes and the homestead range, however the team is willing to work with any specific wants or needs, down to the last detail.

Stylish living: The McHugh brothers won’t compromise style or quality for budget.

Choose features that suit you: Whether it’s a double sink in the bathroom, or that incredible waterfall shower head, Cavalier Homes can build your perfect bathroom.

Give the team a call on 5480 3770 or head into the Echuca branch at 230 Hare St to get started on building your dream home.

OUR HOME // AUTUMN 2022 // 13

Flourish palette: Dulux Autumn Forecast 2022.

(Styling by Bree Leech.)

COLOUR IS A HOT TOPIC With colder weather on the horizon, colour can play a crucial role in creating a sense of warmth in your home.

STORY: THOM MONAGHAN. PHOTOGRAPHY: LISA COHEN.

F

or the past few years, we’ve seen a shift in ‘on-trend’ colours — with warmer, earthier colours beginning to replace colder colours such as grey, black and white.

still warm, but this year we’re seeing stronger undertones of brown, which is meaning we’re seeing richer and more natural colours compared to last year,” Andrea said.

This autumn, colours with a brown undertone are taking centre stage, with coral and terracotta red being favoured.

“We’re even seeing it with our whites as well. If people are using white, they are opting for whites that are on the warmer side, such as our White Dune Quarter.

Dulux colour and communications manager Andrea Lucena-Orr said autumn palettes tend to consist of warmer hues.

“Last year we saw more of a pink and peach undertone, which was Before: A ‘cool’ toned room before Dulux Australia got to work on it.

14 // OUR HOME // AUTUMN 2022

“It’s a contemporary, slightly warm white that suits both traditional and modern aesthetics.”

When incorporating these colours into the house, Andrea said small changes

could be as effective as a complete redecoration.

earthy colour palette, with brown undertones, is here to stay.

“Changing one room, some cushions on the couch, painting one wall or changing the colour of the bed linen — it’s those little things you can do to make your home consistently stay current.

“Interior design works quite different to fashion in that it ever so slightly evolves.

“It can even be as simple as changing the colour of a candle or painting a vase — it doesn’t have to be an extreme makeover.”

Thankfully, for those who are looking at incorporating this season’s colours into their home, Andrea believes the

“People don’t tend to change their interior design every year. They might change the colour of one wall, or the colour of some cushions, but they are small changes that help keep your house stay consistently current.

“We’ve seen a shift to these warmer colours over the past two to three years, and we expect this trend to continue.”

After: The same room redecorated and painted in the Dulux Autumn Forecast 2022 — Flourish palette.

(Styling by Bree Leech. Artwork is Connor Ives C

by Elsbeth Shaw via Studio Gallery.)

QUALITY an d COMFORT

Australian-made furniture is making a comeback, and one Echuca business is ready and able to meet the demand.

STORY: GEORGIA ROSSITER. PHOTOGRAPHY: CATH GREY

T

he movement to buy classic, quality furniture rather than cheap, trendcentric pieces is something the team at S&J Furniture has seen grow over the past few years.

Combined with the power of the homemaker group, S&J Furniture stocks a number of well-known furniture brands sourced from around the world.

And owners Karl and Janine Bauer would know; they’ve owned the store for the past 14 years.

This includes a wide range of La-ZBoy products.

Karl has seen a definite rise in customers’ preference for Australianmade.

“In the last 12 months there’s been a real push towards Australian-made products,” he said.

“It’s gotten more and more popular for us over the past year or two.”

At S&J Furniture, they stock a wide range of Australian-made lounges, which can be made to order in any combination of colour, fabric and style.

As part of the homemaker buying group, Karl said the store was able to cater to all specifications.

“Customers’ requirements and priorities change according to if they’ve downsized or if they’ve got specific design requirements.”

The store is the only La-Z-Boy gallery in the region and the chairs have continued to prove popular among customers.

The recliners’ easy handle operation cements the brand’s status as a favourite for many households.

Karl said the big entertainer’s dining setting is also one of the first things to go.

“Small compact dining settings and small extension settings are very popular.”

Shop local: Owner Karl Bauer says S&J Furniture offers free delivery for Echuca-Moama customers.

To top off its customer service, S&J Furniture offers free delivery in the Echuca-Moama area.

Visit the team in-store for more information about the range, or head to: sjfurnitureechuca.com.au

“It gives us a big range of La-Z-Boy products to choose from, nearly every model is available,” Karl said.

Often catering to downsizing couples, the S&J team knows how to help customers find more compact furniture to suit their homes.

Trading in the sprawling lounge suite that fits five people for the two-person couch is one of the switches many empty-nesters tend to make as they move into a smaller home.

With something for ever�one – call in for a chat

S&J

79 – 85 Ogilvie Ave, Echuca (03) 5480 7912 OUR HOME // AUTUMN 2022 // 15

TAKE MY

breath away These visionary homeowners have seen their design ideas come to spectacular life in their stunning new house.

STORY: ADAIR WINDER. PHOTOGRAPHY: MITCHELL LYONS OF LYONS PHOTOGRAPHY

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raham and Rosemary Peat’s home instantly catches your eye with its contemporary, light and modern feel.

The entire design of the house was influenced by an architectural design company based out of Melbourne which Rosemary drew her inspiration from.

“Rosemary knew exactly the style and the look that she wanted to go for,” Graham said.

Adding a sentimental touch to the design, the Peats’ grandson — Jack Hills, who has a Bachelor of Design in Architecture — helped to draw up the concept plan for the house with Rosemary’s vision in mind.

Pool and outdoor area.

16 // OUR HOME // AUTUMN 2022

The concept plan was then passed on to local company Winning Homes, which was involved in all aspects of the building process from

advising and construction to project management.

Sarah Robson from Winning Homes offers personal advice when choosing materials, finishes and colour schemes, while Steve Robson project manages the local team of contractors and suppliers.

The entire project involved a collaborative effort from the Peat family, Winning Homes and Shannon from Brandrick Architects, who all worked together to create a spectacularly designed home.

The house was designed specifically to suit the Peats’ lifestyle with their love of gardening, floristry, cooking, entertaining and indoor/outdoor living.

Before you even take a step into the house, you are astounded by the amount of detail on the front exterior.

The stunning front facade.

Kitchen and dining area.

The façade of the home is a real standout, featuring a white render finish, floor-to-ceiling windows with butt joint glass and striking timber cladding with an integrated, sectional-lift garage door.

Front sitting room.

Materials used for the façade include imported European bricks for both the feature blade wall and letterbox, alongside Tasmanian oak for the timber feature on the garage.

Upon entering the house, your attention is immediately grabbed by the pool which is practically calling your name from the entryway. As soon as you step through the front door and look directly through to the back window, your eyes instantly meet with the pool.

From the entrance, you can also see a continuation of the Tasmanian oak theme, which runs seamlessly throughout the house.

The steady flow of Tasmanian oak helps to connect the exterior of the home with the interior.

The cleverly positioned front sitting room takes advantage of the basking morning sun with its easterly floor-toceiling windows, but the real feature OUR HOME // AUTUMN 2022 // 17

Backyard.

is a glass partition with a custom steel frame, which was built in-house by local Winning Homes tradesmen.

The partition gives the room a sense of privacy yet still integrates an open feel to the room with its see-through glass panelling.

As you proceed deeper into the house, you are rewarded with the sight of an open-plan living space, which is not only perfect for entertaining but also incorporates a northerly aspect which helps to draw in the winter sun during the colder months.

You begin to notice the fine architectural details of the build — such as the square-set ceiling without architraves, which gives the impression of soaring ceilings.

The floor-to-ceiling windows positioned throughout the house successfully manage to remove the boundary between indoors and outdoors — creating an endless flow

between the two worlds.

There is a continuation from the indoor kitchen and dining area to the outdoor barbecue and alfresco area.

Integrated into the outdoor entertainment area and positioned under the roof line of the house is the heated plunge pool.

The pool is not only functional but also acts as a water feature as you walk through the house and catch a glimpse of it.

The house was built around the pool, which was the first element to be installed due to there being too many access restraints following the construction of the home.

On the other side of the back garden is another standout feature — the vertical garden wall, which flaunts an arrangement of lush green foliage.

All in all, this home truly takes your breath away with its functional yet aesthetically pleasing design.

Hallway.

18 // OUR HOME // AUTUMN 2022

STORY: ADAIR WINDER. PHOTOGRAPHY: STEVE HUNTLEY

GLORIOUS GARDEN

tells a story

Urban oasis: The sparkling swimming pool and surrounding garden create a resort-style feeling.

A Moama garden has been transformed into a tranquil sanctuary that not only catches your eye but soothes your soul.

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“I really feel proud of what I’ve achieved in this garden — it suits me.”

Since then, she has worked hard to create a beautiful garden that successfully captures a feeling of serenity.

“Sometimes what I thought would grow here, hasn’t,” she said.

ladys Harley bought her 2000 square metre property in Moama about eight years ago.

In the centre of this relaxing oasis is a pool surrounded by a variety of ecoclimates.

Eco-climates are garden ‘rooms’, with each room featuring its own unique design.

The garden is home to an endless amount of vibrantly coloured flowers such as orchids, lavender and roses.

There is also a vegetable patch which is growing sage and parsley and two mystery rockmelons, which Gladys did not plant herself.

“I don’t know how the rockmelon even got there. Maybe it was in some compost or maybe my granddaughter was eating some melon and perhaps dropped a seed. I have no idea.”

Gladys has managed to utilise the space in the garden by growing plants that are high above ground.

Around every corner: There’s many unique spaces in Gladys’ garden.

She said it was difficult to plant underneath trees and this was what motivated her to start thinking about how she could make use of the space that was off the ground.

“I love wisterias, I love plants that drape and I love hanging baskets under trees.”

She also towers pot plants up on stands to produce a wall, which yet again creates a sense of height to the garden.

Maintaining the garden has been a learning curve for Gladys, who said it had been a journey of trial and error.

“I also initially made the mistake of letting things just evolve. I’ve learnt that you have got to have some sort of structure and continuity. A garden has to tell a story.”

Nowadays, all her plants work harmoniously and seamlessly together.

“It’s not a perfect show garden that is trimmed to perfection. I like the relaxed, informal look of it.”

Gladys enjoys watching people’s eyes light up when they first enter the garden and catch a glimpse of all the wonderful plants growing behind the large surrounding wall.

“They can’t see what’s behind the wall.

I catch them with surprise and that gives me great joy, it really does.”

Gladys hopes her garden will be approved over the next few weeks to hold an open garden fundraiser.

In the meantime she will continue to potter around the garden with her dog and cat, who love to roam around the yard as well.

CREATE YOUR

sanctuary

Your home is an oasis from the worries of the world.

Get the fundamentals right, and the rest will follow.

M

any of us have spent more time at home recently, and it has become clear we want our spaces to be our sanctuary while also being functional.

No limits: Create the feel you want in your home by using different colours and textures

With the experiences of online learning with the kids, working from home, a new pet or just being in our homes more, rooms need to be multifunctional, flexible, easy to clean and low-maintenance — all while being comfortable and carefree.

Our floors are no different — and they play an important part in the liveability of a home.

Seeking to make our home more comfortable yet inspiring for the lives we lead, can mean big or small changes.

Whatever it is, big or small, how we see and feel about our home is important.

New flooring, a renovation or painting walls are significant and will see great impact to the way we live at home.

It’s a place to feel safe and rejuvenated.

Small changes and improvements are also measurable.

Rich River Flooring Xtra has the knowledge and advice to help you make the right decisions for your home.

A new rug, some fresh flowers or finally printing and framing those holiday snaps.

Drop in to Rich River Flooring Xtra at 4/53-55 McMillan Rd, Echuca, to meet the friendly team.

Shop 4, 4, 53-55 53-55 McMillan McMillan Road, Road, Echuca Echuca Shop (03) 5480-6130 5480-6130 (03) flooringxtra.com.au flooringxtra.com.au 20 // OUR HOME // AUTUMN 2022

Stylish: Small details can elevate a space.

Photo: The Fifth Wall Lookbook.

SWEET DREAMS ARE MADE OF THIS Few things are worse than a bad night’s sleep. Finding the right bed to match your needs will improve your chances of blissful slumber.

STORY: CAITLYN GRANT

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“It’s a great option for those people who have different weights and heights which means different support needs; our BedMatch system can help diagnose that for our customers,” Jack said.

othing will keep you up at night quite like knowing you could be having the best night’s sleep of your life if you’d only visited Echuca’s Forty Winks.

Operating since 1988, the familyowned and run store has been specialising in providing a solution to all your bedding needs for almost 34 years.

With highly trained staff ready to assist at every step of the way, store manager Jack Keogh said the team was always trying to give each individual customer the best experience possible in finding the perfect bed.

And it’s not just mattresses that can be tailored to your needs. Adjustable bases allow you to comfortably lie in bed with the feeling of weightlessness through the zero-g feature that relieves those aches and pains all over your body.

“Sleep health is everything, and we are constantly learning of the side effects of not getting enough good-quality sleep,” Jack said.

Sleep tight: Comfort has no limits with the Forty Winks My Side range.

postural support for you and your partner.

The BedMatch system runs more than 1000 scientific calculations across 18 statistical body measurements including your height and the width of your shoulders, hips and waist.

“Essentially, it chooses the right support for the customer’s age, body type, weight, where their weight is, and then it chooses the right support for all those factors,” Jack said.

The system then uses the data and determines the correct levels of

“All the customer has to do then is find the comfort that they want.”

Ex Fo cl r t usi y ve W t in o ks

And, with an exclusive BedMatch System only found at Forty Winks, the test bed takes the guesswork out of finding the right mattress for you.

Many couples have differing requirements that make up a perfect night’s sleep — some may need more support, others may need less support.

The My Side personalised mattresses, only found at Forty Winks, can have two separate supports in one surface, which makes sure no-one has to compromise.

With one of the biggest ranges of mattresses and bedroom suites on display in country Victoria, Forty Winks Echuca can provide a bedding solution for everyone.

For more information, visit the friendly Forty Winks team at the Echuca Homemaker Centre at 161–189 Ogilvie Ave, Echuca.

ECHUCA

TM

Come in store and experience our new & exclusive MySide range – two beds in one. Each side of the mattress is customised to you and your partner’s unique support needs.

Discover your unique sleep profile instore with BedMATCH today.

FI4488

Echuca

Echuca Homemaker Centre, 161-189 Ogilvie Avenue Ph: 03 5482 4522

fortywinks.com.au

OUR HOME // AUTUMN 2022 // 21

Natural feel: If the outside colours of wheat and green soothe your mood, bring them inside.

TURN A HOUSE into a home

Garden Is your

Supporting Echuca-Moama businesses doesn’t just produce a feel-good buzz within ourselves, it extends to our community and provides employment to locals.

in need of a

MAKEOVER?

PHOTOGRAPHY: DANNY SMITH

Supplying Kyabram & District with…

KYABRAM & DISTRICT GARDEN SUPPLIES is a family-owned business providing an extensive range of Quality garden and landscape supplies to residential and trade customers with no order being too big or small.

Free Pool Testing

Sugar Cane & Pea Straw Mulch

Bulk Deliveries

Sand

Mulch

Metal Art

Pre Mixed Cement Products

Decorative Rock

Garden Edging & Pavers

We offer fast and effective delivery on a huge selection of all things

LANDSCAPE & GARDENING

5 Wood Rd, Kyabram | Ph: 5853 2006 22 // OUR HOME // AUTUMN 2022

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uying local nurtures relationships all around the community and keeps non-locals curious about what’s on offer, thus stimulating the twin towns’ economy through their visits.

At Linen House’s Echuca outlet store, you simply won’t find prices like theirs anywhere else.

Discover a treasure-trove of soughtafter designs, each created by a supertalented team of in-house designers as well as unique, off-the-rack samples, all with too-good-to-pass offers across bedroom, bathroom, kitchen, dining, kids and décor.

And don’t forget the store’s superfriendly and informed team of linen lovers and homeware enthusiasts — each staff member gets an absolute thrill from delivering an inspiring experience to anyone who drops in.

With the store fitted-out beautifully to inspire your dream home — whether it be your bedroom, bathroom,

kitchen or living area — it’s inevitable that every customer will leave with something that makes their house a home.

Not only is Linen House’s pure linens in demand, but also their new sustainable and natural bedding range ReJeaneration, adored for its luxe feel as well as its biosustainability and low-earth impact.

“Plus, these are truly divine fabrics to sleep in,” Linen House’s manager Melissa Carmody said.

The range is designed to “give jeans a second life” by combining postconsumer recycled jeans with Tencel, a material made from sustainably sourced wood. Through this operation, Linen House has sought to embrace an entire process that eliminates water waste and the release of pollutants.

Featuring stunning contemporary designs across quilt cover sets, sheet

sets and European pillowcases, you can relish in the phenomenal softness while helping to rejuvenate the earth for ‘jeanerations’ to come.

Too stylish: Grey bedlinen can work with many bedroom styles.

Linen House also proudly donates 10 per cent from all ReJeaneration sales to marginalised and vulnerable members of the community, through its social impact initiative, LH Cares.

The brand’s newest partnership is with Good360 Australia, which helps connect businesses with surplus goods to Australians who need them the most.

Aside from falling in love with Linen House’s much-adored quilt cover sets, sheets, towels, décor and dining products, just landed is a sensational drop of their best bathroom towels, an exquisite range of cotton chenilles, organic washed cotton sheet sets and quilt covers, super-chic placemats plus pure linen loungewear in varied colours, to keep you extra-comfy over the coming cooler months.

Ready for bed: Make your bedroom the place of sweet dreams.

Finishing touches: Complete a room with a few personal touches.

Classic look: At Linen House’s Echuca outlet there is a colour combination to suit all styles.

Visit Linen House at 136 Hare St, Echuca, Monday to Friday, 9.30 am to 5.30 pm, and Saturday 9.30 am to 3 pm.

Follow @linenhouse_outlets on Instagram for styling inspiration and weekly updates on new product arrivals.

Echuca | Shop Local Up to

70% off RRP

Bed • Bath • Living • Lounge • Kids PH: 5480 3987 | 136 Hare St, Echuca | @linenhouse_outlets | linenhouse.com OUR HOME // AUTUMN 2022 // 23

STICK IT WHERE THE SUN SHINES

Selling 6.6Kw and 10.9Kw systems Rebates are available of up to $1,400 for solar panel (PV) system installation for homeowners along with options of INTEREST-FREE loans

P: 0408 258 298 | W: www.solaronelectrical.com.au

GOING SOLAR MADE SIMPLE Solar power can provide a greener way of living and also cut household costs.

STORY: YOUSSEF SAUDIE

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ictorians currently have up to six months to use a subsidy to install solar panels on their homes.

Installing solar: Can provide cleaner energy and cut electricity bills.

Solar On is a local solar panel installation business, that says reliable solar panels can cut bill costs by 50 to 80 per cent.

“It’ll do a big impact on anyone’s energy usage; we’ve done jobs where it can help with up to 80 per cent of people’s bills,” Solar On contractor Shaymus Ryan said.

He said for those who are considering going solar, the Victorian Government’s current $1400 rebate could encourage people to take the plunge.

If you want to take an extra step and use solar power at night, there is up to a maximum of $3500 rebate for solar batteries provided by the government.

Local business: Solar On is run by local tradies.

“People have a high night-time usage more or less so when the sun goes down, the solar is not working. So it [batteries] just helps it get through during the night,” Shaymus said.

So where do you go to get the job done properly?

Shaymus said Solar On was one of the few businesses that had its workers “here from the start to the finish”.

“We’re the local people that will come out to your job and talk to you about what you need, and we’ll be the exact same people that come in and install it,” he said.

“We’re not really salesmen, we’re tradies — we don’t really have any salesman assisting us.

Safe and sound: Solar On was established in 2013 — it’s run by and for locals.

“We’re the whole process and you’ll see us on the streets — we’re working everywhere, we’ve grown up in the area.”

Getting a new solar installation can require a range of administration tasks, and Shaymus said Solar On was there to help with that.

This includes when getting your solar panels cleaned and tested, whether it is 12 months or even twice a year for those who live on farms.

At the end of the day, going solar is “clean energy” that can help in reducing emissions and avoid “dirty power”.

It is another step in environmental sustainability — set up for locals, by locals.

Solar batteries: Can help homes run on solar throughout the night.

Going solar: Is something many households are thinking about.

OUR HOME // AUTUMN 2022 // 25

YOUR FUTURE

home is callin g

Home of your dreams: Paul Gray Builders can help you create a home designed just for you.

If you’re on the hunt for the right builder to construct your new home, then look no further than up the road.

STORY: NICOLA CECCATO. PHOTOGRAPHY: PAUL GRAY BUILDERS

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family-run business with an understanding of its clients’ needs, building company Paul Gray Builders knows how to build homes with confidence and care.

Bendigo-based Paul Gray Builders also services the Echuca area.

With the business running for nearly 24 years, owner Paul Gray said they had built a strong reputation with a growing number of clients.

“We have a lot of returning clients,” Paul said.

“People like that we’re very flexible with our plans and that we help customers with their plans as well.”

The company prides itself on being with the client for every step of the home building process, from the moment of the first consultation to when they’re handed the key to their new home.

Paul Gray Builders also offers a free orientation site visit with no obligation to commit, to make sure clients feel comfortable with the costs involved and confident in the people building their home.

“We work with what clients want and help them achieve that,” Paul said.

“It’s what people bring to the table and we take on their information to give them the best outcome.

“Contact us for a site visit — it’s a noobligation, free site visit to get the best information out front, as there’s a lot of hidden costs when building.

“We’ll help you pick the right plan for your block of land.”

For more information, visit Paul Gray Builders at 109 High St, Bendigo or phone 5444 5054 or go online to: www.paulgraybuilders.com.au

Care is key: When it comes to building a new home, Paul Gray Builders always takes the time to do it the right way.

Paul Gray Builders P/L was established in 1998 with one aim,‘To design and build the highest quality homes’ and is now proud to be offering award-winning designer homes and a wealth of building expertise to Echuca and surrounding areas.

We offer clients a complete building experience. Whether you select a standard plan from our innovative designer range or choose the flexibility of an individual design our experienced team will guide you all the way.

By choosing Paul Gray Builders, you benefit from a respected local builder

(03) 5444 5054 | 109 High Street, Bendigo VIC 3550 www.paulgraybuilders.com.au 26 // OUR HOME // AUTUMN 2022

BUILDING

a strong relationship With the coronavirus pandemic travel ban going for so long, the money many people would have spent on an expensive holiday is now being invested into their homes.

STORY: GIANNI FRANCIS

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ounder and director of Bendigo Patios, Paul Gray, has seen an increase in people adding value to their homes with the addition of outdoor living areas, and has been delivering on people’s visions for their homes.

“Whether it be an opening/closing pergola system or a full shade system, or an insulated roof, we cater for people’s budgets and for their needs, and give them the options to make the decisions,” Paul said.

The most popular patio right now, and one of the best options Bendigo Patios offers, is the pergola with opening and closing roof.

“They’e so versatile for airflow, shade or full weather protection, and you get more sun in winter,” Paul said.

Bendigo Patios adapts what a client wants into a project designed around the client’s budget, and Paul prides himself on being hands-on with every project.

Bendigo Patios is the sister company to Paul Gray Builders, an independent family-owned business with a proud 20-year history of delivering quality homes in Bendigo.

Paul said all patio projects were backed by the expertise of a master builder, and if they can build a house, they can build a patio.

From start to finish the project stays in-house, guaranteeing fast service and more importantly accountability.

Paul said the most important part of his relationship with a client was trust.

Dream patio: Aussies are adding value to their homes with a patio.

Their team of 18 handles the whole process from start to finish, overseen

by Paul.

“From the general enquiry, the quotes are done in-house, the drafting is done in-house,” he said.

“We provide all the permits through

our administration team, and then we order and install.

“The beauty of working with a local and independent builder, rather than a big brand builder, is that you are in contact with the builder — not a project manager.”

PERFECT FOR

ALL SEASONS Provide the perfect finishing touch to your home with an outdoor entertaining area like a Fielders Centenary patio or verandah.

Developed for the harsh Australian climate, Vergola provides a range of adjustable louvre controlled solutions that enables you to control your environment.

(03) 5444 5054 109 High St, Bendigo VIC 3550 www.bendigopatios.com.au OUR HOME // AUTUMN 2022 // 27

Picturesque: The gorgeous swimming pool next to the alfresco dining area.

KEEP IT LIGHT AND BRIGHT Lightness and openness were key features that served as the foundations for the design of a new Moama home.

STORY: BRANSEN GIBSON. PHOTOGRAPHY: CENTURY 21

Stylish: The bathroom features a large bath and floor-to-ceiling imported Italian tiles.

W

ith bright timber floors and high ceilings throughout, wide hallways, fewer doors and an open-plan design, the new home at 6 Hakea Court, Moama, feels spacious and roomy.

The north-east facing home allows plenty of natural light in, adding to the bright and open feel throughout the home.

The magnificent property took a year to design and build, but the hard work and effort has certainly been worthwhile.

The owners focused heavily on the kitchen area and their dedication and planning have resulted in a fantastic cooking and dining area.

The spacious kitchen features a stunning single-piece stone splashback that not only looks incredible, but with no grout joints or corners it makes cleaning a breeze.

28 // OUR HOME // AUTUMN 2022

The large kitchen area also features a butler’s pantry that boasts an extra sink and plenty of extra storage space to make staging a dinner party a breeze.

With fantastic modern appliances and gorgeous stone bench tops, the kitchen is the perfect combination of style and functionality.

The kitchen joins seamlessly to the spacious dining and lounge area, making it perfect for family dinners and hosting guests.

The spacious dining and lounge areas open to a gorgeous covered alfresco dining space, and the stunning swimming pool and fire pit area are perfect for entertaining athome no matter the season.

A nook complete with a solid stone bench top completes the lounge room, providing a great place for a desk and computer.

Comfort: The master bedroom at 6 Hakea Court, Moama.

Extravagance: The stunning kitchen features a single-piece stone splashback and butler’s pantry.

Spacious: The dining and living area opens out to a dazzling alfresco dining area.

Serenity: The comfortable third living area, located away from the main living and dining areas.

Meanwhile, a sitting room nearby provides a quiet place to relax, away from the hustle and bustle of the main kitchen and dining area.

Towards the back of the house there is a third living area near the second bathroom and bedrooms, providing a fantastic space for kids to hang out with friends, with the added bonus of access to the backyard as well.

The large backyard has tonnes of space that makes it the perfect place for children to play in. The yard features a vegie patch and an abundance of greenery, but still maintains that desirable lowmaintenance element.

Back inside, the bathrooms boast floorto-ceiling imported Italian tiles, with both removable and rain shower heads in the ensuite and second bathrooms, while passive cooling and heating and refrigerant flooring make it easy to keep the home at that perfect, comfortable temperature.

OUR HOME // AUTUMN 2022 // 29

ALL YOU COULD WANT OR NEED You don’t have to go far to find that something special to enhance your home and lifestyle.

STORY: NICOLA CECCATO. PHOTOGRAPHY: I WANT I NEED

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orget travelling to the big city for boutique homewares and gift ideas — Echuca store, I Want I Need, has you covered.

“We support a lot of homebased businesses with earrings and soaps, cards and leather handmade bags.

I Want I Need provides customers with a boutique shopping experience that’s not often seen in regional Victoria.

“We have local ladies who make kids’ wear with beautiful patterns and we have people coming back from Melbourne to come and get these pieces that are locally produced, because it’s a one-off piece.”

Owner Lisa Cox takes pride in providing the best quality homewares for the Echuca-Moama area.

“We call ourselves a lifestyle emporium,” she said.

“We sell anything, from cushions, vases, throws, clothing, jewellery, baby goods, chocolate and so forth. It’s that one-stop shop you can come in and get a gift for everybody.”

Boutique bargains: From home-based businesses in regional Victoria to big brands from the city, I Want I Need stocks a range of items from around the country.

30 // OUR HOME // AUTUMN 2022

The business is set to become bigger with further developments under way, including the purchase of a new warehouse for expansion of stock and a van for delivery of artworks and small furniture.

The store also carries a large range of products from local, national and international brands, with a strong preference for Australian businesses.

I Want I Need also provides a click and collect service online, making it easier for those with a busy schedule to shop; as well as free gift wrapping in-store and a loyalty program.

“All our artworks are sourced from Australian companies and we try to get a lot of our wares in Australia too,” Lisa said.

I Want I Need is open seven days a week from 10 am to 4 pm at 572 High St, Echuca. To shop online or find out more, go to: iwantineedechuca.com.au/

Something for everyone: I Want I Need has a wide range of homewares and gift ideas, from artwork and furniture to handmade jewellery and soaps.

INVESTING IN THE

community

Community banks invest their profits back into the towns where their customers live and work.

STORY: THOM MONAGHAN

E

very year, the big Australian banks make billions of dollars in profit.

How much of that profit goes to shareholders and executive bonuses?

Does any of it make its way back to the community?

If you’re banking with a community bank, you can be confident your profits go back into your local community — funding local groups and projects to improve your town.

That’s what Community Bank — Kyabram & District does.

Since the branch opened six years ago, Community Bank — Kyabram & District has invested more than $350,000 of the company’s profits back into the community.

The bank has funded sporting clubs and the local aged care facility, and has helped purchase a car for the ‘L to P’ learner driver program.

Recently, the branch helped fund the Kyabram water tank mural, which was painted by artist Jimmy D’vate. It has also helped fund a major project in collaboration with the Kyabram Club at Kyabram Fauna Park.

Supporting youth: Community Bank — Kyabram; District branch manager Ben Langley is proud of the bank’s involvement with Campaspe Shire’s learn-to-drive program.

This support brings people to the town.“We’re a community-owned and operated bank,” branch manager Ben Langley said.“We offer competitive banking products and great home loan rates and when you bank with Community Bank — Kyabram & District, the profits that we make from your banking are distributed locally.”

Community benefits: Community Bank – Kyabram; District has funded a Kyabram Fauna Park major project in collaboration with the Kyabram Club. Pictured are (from left) Terry Nepean, Vince Curtis, Lachlan Gordon and Dale Denham.

Last year, Australian banks made upwards of $26 billion dollars in profit according to KPMG, and Ben believes this is why customers should bank with local community banks.

“When you bank with a local community bank such as the Kyabram community bank, you know that the profits made from banking with us, go straight back into our community,” he said.

“Unlike other banking institutions, we are unique in the fact that we can invest our profits back into the local community.“Community banks are locally owned, so local people have a big say in where they would like to direct the profits.

“We try and diversify where we invest the company’s profits. We’ve invested into many sporting clubs, however we support local VCE students getting to university or TAFE through our tertiary scholarship program and are proud partners with Kyabram Tomorrow Development Group.

“We encourage community groups and organisations to talk to our board of directors and branch staff about how

Community benefits: Community Bank – Kyabram; District has funded a Kyabram Fauna Park major project in collaboration with the Kyabram Club.

Pictured are (from left) Te rry Nepean, Vince Curtis, Lachlan Gordon and Dale Denham.

Community Bank — Kyabram; District can support local projects and events.

“All they have to do is come into the branch and pick up an application form. That way, we get a chance to have a chat with them and talk through how Community Bank — Kyabram & District can potentially support community groups and organisations.

“It’s really that simple.”

If you would like to talk to a local bank that cares for your community, call in to the Community Bank — Kyabram & District branch at 1/171 Allan St, Kyabram to talk through how your banking can support your community.

OUR HOME // AUTUMN 2022 // 31

If your home has equity, you have opportunity.

Whether it's buying another home, extending, renovating or refinancing - see what's possible with a Bendigo Complete home loan.

Come home to a better loan. Chat with a home loan specialist today or search Bendigo Bank home loans.

Community Bank • Kyabram & District 5852 3099

^ Source: Roy Morgan Risk Monitor 2020 Terms and conditions, fees and charges apply. Full details available on application. Lending criteria apply. Bendigo and Adelaide Bank Limited ABN 11 068 049 178 Australian Credit License 237879 (1625973-1644583) OUT_12038342, 25/02/2022