Tatura's Booming November 2021

TATURA’S Booming

BUY IN TAT FOR A CHANCE TO WIN Picture: Megan Fisher

Phil Serra is here to help

Page 16

Heritage-listed home restored

Page 6

Museum accreditation welcomed Page 18

Page 2 – ‘Tatura’s Booming’, November, 2021

TATURA’S Booming

The name says it all

I also feel proud when a business opens its doors, expands or celebrates an anniversary after trading through what has been the most difficult two years. You'll read their stories throughout this edition.

Welcome to the sixth edition of Tatura's Booming.

As I sat down to write this introduction, I started pondering on the name of this publication.

Even those colleagues who live in the bigger city of Shepparton all agreed it was a fitting title.

Titles for new publications aren't always easy to decide. You bring a group of colleagues together and names are thrown around; everyone has unique ideas and sometimes it can take a couple of discussions to reach an agreement on what the publication should be called.

So, it's not just because I am biased (Tatura is my hometown) that I think the name is perfect!

However, when we came together to discuss the name for this quarterly community newspaper, the title Tatura's Booming resonated with everyone in the room.

About 13 years ago, my husband Hayden and I decided to make Tatura our home—the place we'd raise our children.

We now have two boys, Fletcher and Austin, and we can't imagine living anywhere else—we are all so happy here.

Tatura is our forever home.

Which is why I am so proud of any progress that happens in Tatura,

You'll also learn about the Tatura traders' giveaway in the lead-up to Christmas, as well as the Tatura Pharmacy Shopping Day. Our town's retail shops and service providers are ready to help you with all your Christmas shopping and needs.

like the stunning renovation of heritage-listed 58 Hogan St by Carrie Donaldson and her husband Luis.

The home was built by storeowner Thomas Flanagan in 1905. Turn to pages 6 and 7 for a peek inside.

I encourage you to support our local shops and services, as together we can ensure our town Tatura keeps on booming.

Wishing you a happy festive season and we'll see you again in the new year.

Simone Dunne simone.dunne@sheppnews.com.au

FoodWorks serves the community Since opening in September last year, Tatura FoodWorks has been supported by the community every step of the way, even through coronavirus struggles.

By ISABELLE HARRIS

people to shop close to home.

Tatura FoodWorks manager Craig Bramley said the business had received “a lovely response” from everyone.

“COVID's been bad in one sense but good in another. It keeps the local people shopping local — shopping local is helping the community and helping employ the people in the community.”

“When we started off it was a learning experience to get into the community, so we had to put ourselves out there,” he said.

“We were really excited to get involved with the Tatura community and couldn't wait to give back to the generosity of spirit we were receiving.

“It's been very uplifting, and we feel very welcome in the community, even when our staff have been under extreme stress and hard times so we'd like to thank our staff for that effort too.”

Craig said the pandemic had kept their focus within Tatura, including hiring more locals and encouraging

As part of this support effort, FoodWorks has been actively engaging with many community organisations to lend a helping hand to those in need.

These organisations include Rotary, Tatura Football Club, Tatura Lawn Tennis Club, Hilltop Golf Club, Tatura Community House and Murchison Men's Shed.

“We firmly believe that you give back to the hand that feeds you,” Craig said.

“These organisations have been a great support to us, especially when we're growing all the time.

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Tatura FoodWorks manager Craig Bramley says the community has been warm and welcoming, a feeling he wants to give back.

“We have always been committed to support community organisations, events and its people.”

And with Christmas just around the corner, Craig said they were planning for an “extremely exciting Christmas period”.

“There has never been a better time to celebrate, entertain and enjoy the blessings of being together with loved ones.”

Find Tatura FoodWorks in Hogan St in Tatura, or shop online at: www. taturafoodworks.com.au

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‘Tatura’s Booming’, November, 2021 – Page 3

Shop in Tatura and win prizes Tatura traders will once again be running their highly successful giveaway in the lead-up to the Christmas shopping season.

By Isabelle Harris Kirsty Richardson of Tatura children's clothing and homewares store Mes Amours Boutique said they had delayed the giveaway's start to ensure most businesses would be able to participate.

“We wanted as many businesses as possible to have the opportunity to donate towards the prize pool, so there'll be about four to six reasonably sized prizes,” she said.

“It's open to customers all around the Goulburn Valley, even online purchases. With any purchase they can put an entry in, then we'll collect the entries and do a draw of the major prizes.”

Customers can enter the giveaway by purchasing online or in-store at any participating Tatura business, with winners drawn on the Tatura Traders' Facebook live and announced via social media.

Kirsty said most businesses were keen to get in on the action after the success of last year's event.

“People have seen the gratitude and success from last year, so there's more wanting to get involved after the success of last year's giveaway.”

David Tartaglia, of participating business Tatura Cut and Mow, said he got on board with the giveaway to give back to the community.

“It's just about supporting the locals who support us,” he said, a sentiment echoed by Tracy Lowry, retail manager at Tatura Pharmacy.

“The pharmacy likes to support the town in our own little way,” she said.

The giveaway will run for about four weeks and will feature donations of goods or vouchers from Tatura businesses, which Kirsty said will be useful for sourcing gifts in the approaching Christmas season.

Tracy Lowry of Tatura Pharmacy, Kirsty Richardson of Mes Amours Boutique and David Tartaglia of Tatura Cut and Mow are all participating in the Tatura Traders giveaway.

The event is organised by the Tatura Traders, an informal local business association.

“Some of the businesses have formed an informal committee where we chat about what's coming up, what we'd like to do,” Kirsty said.

“We have been trying to work towards a formal committee in the future.

“We've formed a bit of a united front to help each other, get the message about Tat businesses to the wider community and other regional areas.”

For more information, keep an eye on the Tatura Traders Giveaway Facebook page, or contact Kirsty Richardson of Mes Amours Boutique via email at: contactmesamours@gmail.com

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Page 4 – ‘Tatura’s Booming’, November, 2021

TATURA’S Booming

Church celebrates new beginning Tatura Uniting Church has found a welcoming casual setting for its small congregation in the building previously occupied by The Gallery Cafe.

Uniting minister Brian Spencer said they had decided to keep the cafe space open at the front of the building.

“The church group will be set up in the back, the front will be tipped as a cafe. It's very accessible from the main street so we can leverage that,” he said.

The first services in the new Hogan St building — now called Olive and Vine — were held in early July, after the old building in Thomson St was sold.

“The building we just moved from was built in 1959 and we've been around for over a century,” Brian said.

“You've got people who've been there for multiple generations — this represents a chance to refresh the definition of church.”

Olive and Vine has already begun redefining the church, hosting Zoom services throughout lockdowns — which

the church plans to continue.

“People are able to come and see us on Zoom before they actually come to the church which is quite useful, especially if they're a bit nervous about seeing us or if they haven't been in a while,” Brian said.

Congregation chairperson Dot Clement said the new building's unique position on the street would be of great benefit to the church and the local community.

“The building is more open to people on the street, it's inviting people in,” she said.

Beryl Cross, church secretary and elder, said the move “had to be” for the congregation's future.

“I think it will hopefully be a way forward,” she said.

Brian said selling and moving a church wasn't easy.

Church members Allan Cross and Jenny Stammers with the rest of the congregation in the service space.

“The café will be the focus and we can utilise that. I hope we can grow to a congregation of 50.”

He hopes the hospitality facilities and the church space will be able to be used for community and private functions well into the future.

“Apart from the regular services there's fellowship groups; we've also hosted awareness groups as well.

“We've been here for 100 years and we hope to be here for another 100 years.”

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‘Tatura’s Booming’, November, 2021 – Page 5

Congregation chairperson Dot Clement and John Clement in the front decked area of the church building.

Formerly known as The Gallery Cafe, the Tatura Uniting Church have rebranded the building to Olive and Vine.

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Page 6 – ‘Tatura’s Booming’, November, 2021

TATURA’S Booming

A home with a store of stories Every home has a story, but some are richer and deeper than others.

By JOHN LEWIS When holiday home owner and renovator Carrie Donaldson saw an old and decaying weatherboard house on Tatura's Hogan St, she knew there would be a story to tell.

The Euroa-based tourism operator had spent her early childhood in Tatura — her father played footy for the Bulldogs, and as a teenager she appeared in theatre shows at Victory Hall on Hogan St. “I've always been drawn to Tatura, it's been a sort of home base for the family,” she said.

So when 58 Hogan St came up for sale, Carrie and husband Luis jumped at the chance to expand their Airbnb business.

The building was heritage-listed, so they knew there was history attached to the place.

But it wasn't until the couple took possession in May 2018 and began to renovate, that the full story of the house and how important it was to Tatura began to reveal itself.

“One of the first things I did was go in with a hammer and I used it to pull back some wood paneling over the original plaster on the hallway,” Carrie said.

“I did a little happy dance when I found dado panels underneath.”

Warnett, the deeper story of the house came to the surface.

The home was built by Trish's grandfather, storeowner Thomas Flanagan, in 1905 and it remained in the same family until its sale to the Donaldsons in 2018.

Thomas Flanagan arrived in Tatura in 1896 and married in 1900. He operated a grocery store on the corner of Ross and Hogan streets, and then added an ironmongery business, followed by a boot-making and repairing establishment and later a drapery store in partnership with his son also named Tom — Trish's father.

The site of Flanagan's Store in Hogan St is now the modern FoodWorks supermarket.

Carrie Donaldson and Trish Warnett share some memories of 85 Hogan St.

Trish remembered growing up at 58 Hogan St during the 1930s.

“We had a room for Grandad because every month he would come up and do the accounts with Dad,” she said.

“I remember when Dad renovated the bathroom which was much better — because we always had an outdoor toilet when I was a little kid and you had to watch out for spiders.”

Carrie and Luis have now removed some interior walls to create a lightfilled kitchen and family space.

And there were more discoveries — a money safe behind the fireplace; a trap door in the kitchen that led to a cellar; a servery cut into the kitchen wall; and a ticket for Ladies Day at the 1912 Tatura races found under the floorboards.

But they have retained the earlier feel of the property with a collection of carefully chosen items — a cast-iron claw-foot bath; a butler's pantry; wood fire, four-poster bed and walk-in robe; black and white family photographs; and even a set of old keys.

of space and openness and to still maintain the fact that it is a period home,” Carrie said.

Airbnbs — including 58 Hogan St, now appropriately named The Storekeeper's House.

However, when Carrie and Luis began talking to previous owner Trish

“I wanted to celebrate the height of the ceilings, to give the place a sense

The Donaldsons have renovated seven properties and run two as

“As we've established our Airbnbs we've tried hard to do more

The exterior of 85 Hogan St has been been given a facelift as well as the interior.

Library to provide extra access Tatura Library is increasing access for its users with extended hours.

The library plans to maintain the staffed hours, and also provide 24/7 access to users who apply for it.

Goulburn Valley Libraries operation manager Jenny Wylie said the initiative would be great for those who work fulltime hours.

the library.”

To gain the perks of extended hours, library users must apply for access and then be granted a swipe card to access the facility outside of normal trading times.

“It’s a way of making the library more accessible to the community,” Jenny said.

The Tatura library is currently open Tuesday, Thursday and Friday, from 10am to 12.30pm and 1.30pm to 5.30pm; and Saturday from 10am to 12.30pm.

“Tatura people often don’t work in Tatura, so they don’t have the opportunity to go to

For more information, call Goulburn Valley Libraries on 1300 374 765.

Tatura Library coordinator Kerri Douglas with some of the wonderful titles on offer in the spacious Tatura Library.

‘Tatura’s Booming’, November, 2021 – Page 7

storytelling about the Goulburn Valley and connect people, so they're not just coming for a bed, they're coming for an experience to take away a greater understanding of the place,” Carrie said.

However, the final word of approval must go to Trish, 81, who has let go of the home her family has known for three generations.

The Hogan St property has been the most extensive renovation Carrie and Luis have undertaken — complicated by a heritage overlay on the building.

“I love it now — I love the white colour.

I remember it as being dark.

Carrie said despite spending $200,000, much of the work had been cosmetic as they had to work with the heritage overlay.

“Carrie has done a wonderful job,” she said.

“And I love that it is now called The Storekeeper's House — I'm sure Dad would have been thrilled.”

The Storekeeper's House is on Instagram @_thestorekeepershouse. For bookings, go to: www.riparide.com/vic

The original storekeeper Thomas Flanagan, who built The Storekeeper's House at 85 Hogan St, Tatura and who ran his grocery and other stores on the same street. Picture courtesy of the Flanagan family and Tatura Museum.

Panelled ceilings and clean white paint refresh the bedrooms at 85 Hogan St.

The master bedroom has a four-poster bed and period furniture to remind visitors of its 116-year-old history.

The old and the new sit side by side at The Storekeeper's House.

The old fireplace still has the lock from a safe which occupied the space.

Period details are important in Carrie and Luis Donaldson's renovation.

Club is blooming marvellous With one garden comes knowledge, growth and a fair bit of love. But what happens when you have 40 gardens?

An affiliate club of the Royal Horticultural Society of Victoria, the Tatura Garden Club has been bringing like-minded individuals together since 1984.

Today, the club is made up of 40 keen gardeners from all age groups, spread far and wide across the region, dedicated to cultivating and growing not only their plants, but friendships.

“A couple have been there since the very beginning, we like the social life and to talk about gardening,” club treasurer Dian Williams said.

“It's a really good thing to be involved in, if you're really interested in gardening. It's good to come and have a bit of social time with other people.”

course, sharing gardening tips and tricks.

Meetings are held on the third Monday of each month. Although paused due to COVID-19 restrictions, they will be starting again in February.

“We have really high-profile people from garden shows and other television shows, they're all good presenters,” Dian said.

The meetings boast a bright line-up with interesting speakers, flower displays and competitions, swapping plant cuttings and of

A highlight in many gardeners' calendars is the club's yearly seminar, drawing crowds from all over the country.

“The club has a very good reputation, so people can't wait for the seminars.”

The club also hosts trips to garden shows, nurseries and open gardens.

Dian Williams, Tatura Garden Club treasurer.

The Tatura Garden Club always welcomes new members.

If interested, call Dian on 0403 143 875 or visit the Facebook page.

Page 8 – ‘Tatura’s Booming’, November, 2021

TATURA’S Booming

Digging in for a bright future Tatura earthmoving business TDiggers Mini Digger Services has celebrated its first year in operation.

By ISABELLE HARRIS

machines can't get to.

Owner operator Tom Durward said he had been subcontracting for his brother before deciding to start working for himself.

“The smaller machines make it easier to access, especially in some of these new estate areas it's a bit tight.”

“I loved the work, what I was doing, so that inspired me. It's more rewarding working for myself,” he said.

Tom said while mini diggers or loaders are available to hire, they are “tricky little machines to learn”.

While taking the plunge into his own business during a pandemic may have seemed daunting at first, Tom said it had paid off.

“I know one guy who hired a machine for a weekend and couldn't figure out how to get it to work. A lot of people do go 'Aah, it'll be easy' but there's a real knack to it.”

“It was surprising how the lockdowns and pandemic paid off in a way, because people were home and were going 'Oh jeez, I should get that done' sort of thing,” he said.

“It's been really positive feedback overall, no complaints.”

Some larger businesses use larger machines and have more staff, but Tom said his specialisation has meant he can do some jobs others can't.

“I've based my business around small access, little areas that other bigger

And after a very successful year in business that has earnt him a loyal clientele, Tom sees a bright future ahead.

“I want to keep it mini and the way I work, the specialised stuff I do,” he said, although he is considering expanding his operations down the track.

“I can potentially see getting another machine and another young fella down the track, but we'll take it as it comes.”

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TDiggers owner operator Tom Durward on site with his trusty Kanga loader.

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‘Tatura’s Booming’, November, 2021 – Page 9

CFA upgrades to latest vehicle Tatura CFA has welcomed a shiny new forward command vehicle (FCV).

By ISABELLE HARRIS “The entire brigade is excited with the new vehicle and the abilities of the new vehicle,” Tatura CFA captain Trevor Franklin said.

“The other one was seven years old, and we tend to change vehicles over so that we have currently specified vehicles that provide us with the best equipment.”

The new FCV acts as a local communication point for fire grounds with multiple vehicles, allowing the incident controller to have full command of equipment and staff.

The big crew cab vehicle also has a large equipment storage area on the back, allowing the team to respond to a variety of situations quickly and efficiently.

“It will let us provide the best service we can to the community,” Trevor said.

“This vehicle will be a work in progress, so we may carry additional lighting in it, for example. It becomes a brigade personalised unit.”

The vehicle was funded in part by the

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tight-knit Tatura community, with businesses and community groups contributing funds.

“A lot of the community, including Tatura Milk and the Generations church, provide funds progressively through the year and we used those funds to purchase the equipment,” Trevor said.

Emergency Management Victoria also contributed money through the Volunteer Emergency Services Equipment Program (VESEP), which funds volunteer groups to purchase essential operational gear.

Tatura CFA second lieutenant Daryl Wilson with the new forward command vehicle (FCV), all ready for action.

For every $1 of funding contributed by the volunteer group or community, VESEP provides $2 of funding up to a maximum of $150,000.

Trevor said they would continue to upgrade their equipment as the need arises and technology improves.

“Eventually we'll be getting other upgraded appliances as they become available through the CFA,” he said.

“This vehicle will be a work in progress as the upgrades and additions are needed.”

The new FCV is highly specialised to suit the Tatura CFA's current and future needs.

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Page 10 – ‘Tatura’s Booming’, November, 2021

TATURA’S Booming The Sheridan Partners team would like to thank all our clients for their understanding and local support during these COVID-19 times.

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Christmas! Sweet taste of post-COVID joy

Nicole Kelly will be providing gingerbread house decorating classes in the lead-up to Christmas.

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Tatura Bakery and Lunches is running allages gingerbread house decorating classes for the first time, after one of the bakers brought his nephews in to decorate some last year.

By ISABELLE HARRIS “They had an absolute blast and they were so proud once they finished them, so I said 'why don't we run a class for any child who wants to do it?',” bakery owner Nicole Kelly said.

While only one session is planned at the moment, Nicole said they would add more classes to meet demand, with updates posted to the shop's Facebook page.

“They'll be able to decorate to their hearts' content, it'll be very individual,” she said.

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“We'll provide all the stuff and all the decorations, then they'll be able to decorate and take it home with them.

“Even if there's some big 'kids at heart', I won't turn them away. It'll

be good to see everyone's creative side come out.”

Nicole hopes the simple and fun activity will help take everyone's minds off the struggles of the past year and COVID-19, which has hit the bakery hard.

“It's been pretty scary not knowing what's going on and everyone's been in the same boat — it's been terrible.

“It'll help us go 'let's forget all the horrible things that have been going on' and have some fun.”

Tatura Bakery and Lunches will run the classes on a to-be-determined date based on COVID-19 restrictions and demand.

For more information, visit the Tatura Bakery and Lunches Facebook page or call 5824 1444.

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Nicole Kelly, pictured with front-of-house manager Jen Freestone, hopes the decorating classes will bring back a bit of pre-COVID joy after recent stresses.

‘Tatura’s Booming’, November, 2021 – Page 11

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Meet the team at Tatura Blinds — owners Lyana and Andrew Speed, with installers Tony King and Daniel Miller.

Proud to be a local business Like many other Tatura businesses, Andrew Speed prides himself on purchasing and using Australian-made products and employing Tatura locals.

By ISABELLE HARRIS “People told me I probably shouldn't have it as Tatura Blinds because you're sort of pinpointing yourself to one area, but I think that's the best thing we've done,” he said.

“We worked really hard at trying to get the right suppliers, trying to get Australian made products, trying to keep local employees and just continue what we're doing.”

Tatura Blinds has enjoyed steady demand throughout the COVID-19 lockdowns, as people working from home realised their window coverings weren't up to scratch.

“They all had the office set up, whether it was a bedroom or study, and they soon discovered the computer screens were glaring, and they needed blinds,” Andrew said.

Andrew and his wife Lyana bought Tatura Blinds two-and-a-half years ago.

employees of Tatura Milk and made the shift over as well.

“The opportunity came up to join the team here and I jumped at it. It's been great,” Daniel said.

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After he'd made the shift, Andrew said business “exploded”, and he now has clients and requests from Nathalia to Rushworth and Kyabram.

Andrew said the solid base he has built up over the years means the business is largely set.

“No business can go without a few teething issues, but I think we've got them pretty well under control now and are just keeping it going,” he said.

For more information, visit Tatura Blinds online at taturablinds.com. au, on Facebook or Instagram.

“I was at Tatura Milk for 12 years and had enough of the shift work.

And then the opportunity came up and I thought, well, let's have a go,” Andrew said.

Two of Andrew's installers, Tony King and Daniel Miller, are also ex-

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Page 12 – ‘Tatura’s Booming’, November, 2021

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‘Tatura’s Booming’, November, 2021 – Page 13

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Page 14 – ‘Tatura’s Booming’, November, 2021

TATURA’S Booming

Sisters fulfil a family dream Four sisters are behind the launch of a new café in Tatura, and they've brought the rest of the family along for the ride.

By MAX STAINKAMPH Sisters Leeanne, Cindy and Fiona McGee and Marie Barbane have opened the Old Corner Store on Hogan St, fulfilling a long-held dream for the family.

Nieces, nephews, children and even the sisters' mum have joined them in the store, and it's almost been fulfilling a destiny for the family.

“Our grandmother lived on The Flats in Mooroopna and was a good cook when we grew up,” Fiona said.

“It was good wholesome food and we've always grown up that way with good wholesome food.

We always dreamed of having our own shop.

“Mum comes in and helps, she's nearly 80. Dad's very proud and he's nearly 80 as well but growing up Aboriginal it was very hard for him to do something like this, opening a store, so he was a little bit set aback, but he's very proud of it.”

Fiona and Leeanne McGee out the front of the Old Corner Store cafe in Tatura.

Fiona — the youngest of the four sisters — said the community had got behind the café since it opened on August 16.

The sisters all have matching tattoos on their arm, and have always been close, but opening the store was something which made them closer than ever.

“That's the good thing about Tatura, everyone's so supportive,” she said.

“We were looking for a shop for a long time and this one came up and

it's perfect,” Fiona said.

They've gone for a retro 1950s vibe — “we wanted it to be one of those old corner stores, so that's what we called it” — with old lollies, milkshakes, chips and treats.

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‘Tatura’s Booming’, November, 2021 – Page 15

Business wins international award Cam Scorey, of Tatura’s Hussln Auto Detailing, has been recognised with an international industry award.

By Isabelle Harris Cam won the prestigious Modesta International Installer of the Year award for 2021, out of 200 installers from around the world—some many times bigger than Husslin Auto Detailing, which Cam owns and operates.

“The Australian distributor was already coming down to help with a job and we got on a Zoom with the two guys who make the decision (to award me) and they told me. I was just speechless and started crying,” Cam said.

Modesta chooses the recipient from their international pool of installers based on their attitude, hard work and customer approach.

exterior surface, which is designed to repel physical and chemical damage from daily wear and tear.

“I'm the only installer in regional Victoria, there's two in Melbourne.

Modesta works on a principle of one installer per two million people,” Cam said, adding that Modesta chooses the supplier based on quality of work and company principles, not the other way around.

“The big thing I try and keep with the business is work hard but stay humble.

The day after I got the award, I got up and worked like I'd never won it,” he said.

Cam is one of only 12 operators in Australia authorised to use top-ofthe-range Modesta paint and surface protection products, which are designed and made in Japan.

“I'm busier than ever now, all my clients come from all over the Goulburn Valley area and northern Victoria,” he said, adding he does work for everyone from mums and dads, to those with a special prestige or project car.

These high-quality products create a glass-like clear coat on the vehicle's

“I've been able to do a lot of cars for people that have a lot of sentimental

Cam Scorey with his coveted Modesta International Installer of the Year award.

value. I did a car for one lady whose husband built the car before he died, so she can just enjoy it and the good memories from that car.”

Alongside the prestige interior and exterior detailing and paint protection he offers, Cam has recently brought in a retail range of Aenso products for customers to use at home.

“Just try and keep your car clean. Use quality products that won't damage your car and it'll be fine,” he said.

Hussln Auto Detailing can be found at 51–55 Hogan St, Tatura or online at: husslnautodetailing.com.au

Cam doing the finishing touches on one of his client's beloved cars.

Dawes & Vary Riordan have been a part of the legal and business landscape in the Goulburn Valley since the 1890s and look forward to continuing to assist locals with their legal matters for years to come.

With the combined knowledge of over 35 lawyers, Dawes & Vary Riordan can offer clients access to lawyers with specific knowledge in particular areas of law including Wills, Powers of Attorney, Estate Matters, Conveyancing and Commercial Law, Family Law and Employment Law matters.

The directors and staff of Dawes & Vary Riordan wish you the compliments of the season and advise that our office will close at 4.00pm on Thursday 23 December 2021 and re-open on Monday 10 January 2022 at 8.30am.

146 Hogan Street, TATURA VIC 3616

Phone: (03) 5824 0300 Facsimile: (03) 5831 5377

Email: info@dvrlawyers.com.au Office hours: Monday to Friday 8.30am to 4pm

Page 16 – ‘Tatura’s Booming’, November, 2021

TATURA’S Booming

Phil's flat-out in semi-retirement Phil Serra has rocketed into semi-retirement with a new handyman business.

By DANEKA HILL “I moved into Tatura from the farm and I thought, what does this town need? No-one was doing odd-job stuff so I got started,” Phil said.

Soon after launching Serra's Handyman Services in September he was running flat out.

“I was hoping it would be two to three days work a week and every weekend was a long one, but I'm running seven days.”

With enough clients to keep him busy until Christmas, Phil puts the overnight success of his little business down to the Serra name.

“People trust us, they know the Serras,” he said.

“I go to jobs where people have left their keys on the table, they leave money in the mailbox. There is a real hometown trust.”

The Serras came out from Italy in 1928 and got their start growing tomatoes before moving into dairy.

“At one stage there was five Serras playing footy in Tat,” Phil said.

“My father and uncle are pitching in, my daughter is doing the books.

Without a doubt it's a family business and I don't want it to change.”

Phil is trying to tempt his tradequalified sons into the business, but he says there's “too much money in footy at the moment”.

“We'll see what's happening around Christmas.

“I might have to hire some local blokes. Then I can actually start working three days a week.”

Phil discovered there was massive untapped demand for a local, affordable handyman.

Phil Serra started a handyman business to keep him busy in semi-retirement. “I bought everything for the trailer brand new,” he said.

“It’s easy to get things new sometimes, there is less to worry about.”

“No-one was looking after the pensioners. Especially with this COVID, the families weren't coming up and hanging a painting or putting up a shelf for them,” he said.

“Some of them just need a pot plant moved and want to have a coffee with you. I'm drinking more coffee now than I've ever drunk in my life, and because it's a little family business we can do that instead of rushing off.”

Serra's Handyman Services does everything from tractor slashing, putting latches on gates, fencing, cleaning gutters and fixing sprinklers.

Phil has proved so reliable Ray White has him booked as the agency's go-to tradesman for rental property jobs.

“I had an emergency job a few days ago. A Ray White rental needed to be

looked after until the plumber could come along to fix the sewerage.

“We do pretty much anything within 40 kilometres of Tatura.”

Phil said he was out to do a good, honest job.

“I'm very proud of everything I do.

I like things to be done well.

“I don't walk into a job and think 'let's do this under budget, under time and make as much profit as we can'. On some jobs I'll lose a hundred because I wanted it done right, on others I'll make a hundred.

“To you it's just a pool fence or a brick garden edge, but they'll look at it every time they go outside so you need to be a perfectionist. Otherwise it's 'who did this job? That bloody Serra'.”

Phil has worked across the region as a stock and station agent, dairy farmer and Telstra technician, to name a few of his jobs.

As a dairy farmer he ran a 200-head Ayrshire herd that was in the top five per cent of Australia for cell count, winning Dairy Australia milk quality awards in 2014, 2013 and 2012.

Phil and his blue heeler now call Hogan St home, but he still runs beef on 218 hectares and does cattle work for Northern Victoria Livestock.

“There are never enough days in the week,” he said.

“After I'm done talking to you, I've got to go out and video some cows for auction.”

Popular bakery gets a makeover Local icon Tatura Hot Bread Bakery is getting a facelift in the coming months.

By CAITLYN GRANT With more than 12 months of ownership, Sophia and George Wells are looking forward to putting their personal touch onto the bakery.

"We're doing bit-by-bit with the store," Sophia said.

"The bakery will get a new sign and a few other small renovations throughout the year."

To match the bit of a revamp, you

may see the workers at Tatura Hot Bread donning some new blue shirts to match their bright demeanour.

"We've been really lucky, we have such a great team," Sophia said.

"They're really on top of it all, always looking out for each other and the customers."

Tatura Hot Bread Bakery is at 130 Hogan St, Tatura. For more information, visit the Tatura Hot Bread Bakery Facebook page.

The team at Tatura Hot Bread in their new uniforms.

‘Tatura’s Booming’, November, 2021 – Page 17

New treats and familiar favourites

Find the right fuel for your body

Ross Street Cafe continues to grow with the help of a new owner.

Nutrition has always been an important part of living a healthy lifestyle, but it's only recently that we've realised how food can affect our bodies.

By GEORGIA ROSSITER Needing a change from the dental industry she'd worked in for 23 years, Murchison's Shannon Ryan took over the business in mid-August.

By GEORGIA ROSSITER Diana Miranda has a long personal history with fuelling her body in the right way.

“It's a big change, but a good change,” she said.

“I can employ our children after school and school holidays and home's not far away in Murchison.”

Shannon has already begun to make some changes, adding more food options for customers and getting stuck into a few renovations to give the cafe a facelift.

“We've still got the same menu, but we've added a lot more,” she said.

Fresh sandwiches, salad rolls, schnitzel rolls and wraps join the range of food already available.

“In summer we'll also have fruit salad and the slushie machine,” Shannon said.

That's why she decided to study nutrition to help others along their journey.

Ross Street Cafe's Mia Thongphan and new owner Shannon Ryan.

Locals that knew the previous owners will also be happy to know Mia Thongphan is still in-store, and the signature home-cooked Thai food is available on Thursdays.

As a clinical nutritionist and gut health specialist, Diana strives to change how people think about food.

“There's been so much misinformation with nutrition and what food is good and what food's not,” she said.

Shannon thinks the cafe's regulars are beginning to warm to her as the new owner.

Her clients range from those with metabolic issues and hormonal disorders, to people who just want to eat healthier and lose weight.

“I think they're getting used to me, and Mia's still here.”

She said nutrition was something that needed to be tailored to the individual.

Ross Street Cafe is open Monday to Friday from 6 am to 2 pm.

Diana recently began offering one of the most individual nutrition plans

Clinical nutritionist Diana Miranda.

available, and the only one in the world for metabolism, called the metabolic balance program.

“What it does is rebalances your metabolism according to your biochemistry, your medical history and any current ongoing medical issues or food preferences.”

For more information about the metabolic balance program, email dianamirandanutrition@gmail.com

GATHERCOLE’S, EMPLOYERS OF 120+ LOCALS Gathercoles commenced operations in Melbourne in 1974 as a domestic meat wholesaler growing to service butchers nationally with beef and lamb.

We have moved to Tier Two Export and USA Accreditation for lamb and we are sending our Goulburn Valley lamb Worldwide. We look forward to being able to extend our range of boxed lamb products.

With growth at our Tatura site we are looking for up to 30 people – immediate start.

Various Roles available in the following areas: • Processing • Boning • Value Adding • Award wages apply plus incentives.

• On the job training provided.

• No previous experience is required.

• Operating Monday to Friday’s with occasional weekend work.

• 8 hour shifts.

There has never been a more exciting time to join our business as we unlock new growth potential and take our business global.

Applications in person to the Employment Officer: Gathercoles Tatura 55-60 Martin Street, Tatura • www.gathercole.com.au

Page 18 – ‘Tatura’s Booming’, November, 2021

TATURA’S Booming

Accreditation a win for museum The Tatura Museum is now an Australian Museums and Galleries Association Victoria (AMaGA Victoria) accredited museum after years of work and dedication.

By Isabelle Harris Tatura and District Historical Society secretary George Ferguson said the society, which helps run the museum, was told on October 5 but missed out on the formal accreditation ceremony held in Melbourne due to coronavirus restrictions.

George said the accreditation acknowledged the quality of the museum and its collection.

“It's a step above being a run-ofthe-mill back shed display, it speaks volumes about what we've got,” he said.

The process to become accredited was started four years ago by one of the museum founders Arthur Knee, but George said the process became more active in the past two years.

It included official examination of how exhibits are protected against light, moisture, natural disasters, pests, accidental damage and more.

AMaGA also look at how new items are acquired, catalogued and how the backgrounds of exhibits are researched in the collection.

“It's quite an involved program, it's a series of things to make sure you're preserving all of your exhibits in the correct way … it gets into a lot of work and paperwork,” George said.

“You realise what the right procedures are to do these sorts of things and you can rely on that ongoing expert advice (from AMaGA).”

Formal accreditation will help the museum in applying for grants to maintain the buildings and exhibits, as well as providing professional

The items within the collection are carefully stored and documented so they can educate everyone for years to come.

A model ship named 'Tatura' that was built by an internee within the camps.

support to maintain and preserve the collection.

“We've got quite a big collection, especially of war camps memorabilia, and those things are fragile because it's been 70 years since they (the camps) closed,” George said.

“Our collection is heritage-listed so that puts quite stringent restrictions on it, (for example) we can't lend it to anyone without permission from Melbourne.”

The Tatura Museum primarily focuses on the history of the surrounding area and especially the prisoner of war and internment camps that were set up near Tatura during World War II. “The main advantage is maintaining the heritage of the items,” George said.

“We're still receiving artifacts from the estates of ex-internees; we occasionally get a box of papers and

George Ferguson with just some of the exhibits, which illustrate the history of the internment camps that were set up during World War II.

letters they wrote to rellies when they were inside.”

The accreditation is well-timed after the museum was forced to close due to coronavirus restrictions, with the museum planning to reopen on

November 6.

For more information, visit the museum's website at www. taturamuseum.com or phone 5824 2111 or email: taturamuseum@ gmail.com

Butcher enjoys bumper first year Meats and Moore has just celebrated a very successful 12 months in Tatura, after owner Brenton Moore started the business in September last year.

BY ISABELLE HARRIS “I moved from Tatura to Melbourne originally to do my apprenticeship and I was there in big butcher shops for 12 years,” Brenton said.

“I decided to move back here so my kids could grow up here.

“I've got a real passion for it, I just love butchery and considering the circumstances, the shop's increased in capacity in a year and we've got a really loyal customer base.”

And this hard work has paid off, winning silver in the continental, bacon rasher and kabana categories at the Australian Meat Industry Council competition.

“We do all of our smallgoods homemade, like bacons and hams,” Brenton said.

Meats and Moore owner Brenton Moore with some of his award-winning smallgoods he makes right here in Tatura.

“I've got some customers that'll travel one-and-a-half hours to get our products.

from Melbourne for our traditional Christmas hams — we've got a few more orders from Melbourne this year too.

“Last year I had a few orders

“I'll just be building the business in

the future; I'm going to be here a long time and I can't ever see myself moving.”

Find Meats and Moore at 131 Hogan St, or phone 5878 2640.

‘Tatura’s Booming’, November, 2021 – Page 19

Filling tummies in hard times Tatura Community House and Generations Church have teamed up to supply food parcels to families in need.

By Isabelle Harris The parcels arrive from Shepparton Foodshare full of non-perishable goods, which Tatura Community House supplements with volunteermade frozen meals and donated produce, with the help of Generations Church.

Volunteer cooks from Tatura Community House turn some of the supplies and donations from locals and businesses into frozen meals and baked goods to add to the parcels.

They have made nearly 300 meals and delivered more than 50 food parcels to people doing it tough or under stay-at-home orders as of September, ranging in location from Tatura to Murchison and Byrneside.

While demand for food parcels has slowed down post-lockdowns, there are plans to continue providing food and frozen meals to those in need “well into the future,” Generations

Food Pantry organiser Kathi Crow said.

“If we can help ease even a little bit of the stress, it'll be good,” she said.

Tatura Community House manager Leeane Bullard said the food relief program was a product of the “strong” local community.

“Small communities are often the best communities to live in times of hardship and crisis,” she said.

“The actions of many, many Tatura locals, groups and businesses should be recognised for their contribution.”

Tatura Community House volunteer Glenda Alexander said Leeane had called to ask her to come and help with Chop and Chat, a social group that makes preserves and jams for the community.

Later, Glenda became involved with the food relief program and started cooking ready-made meals for those in

TAT U R A

Glenda Alexander, Leeane Bullard and Iris Oakes with some of the frozen meals that are distributed with the parcels.

lockdowns or doing it tough.

shop in Tatura or dropped off in the trolleys at Foodworks Tatura and Ritchies IGA Tatura.

“We've been cooking meals through lockdown. It's good fun to help out and nice to see someone other than my husband,” she said, adding she finds the work rewarding and helpful.

Donations of non-perishable food plus fruit and vegetables can be made at Tatura Community House.

“We wanted to help people who needed some help and do it in such a way they didn't feel bad or devalued,” Kathi said.

For information, contact Tatura Community House on 5824 1315 or www.tatcom.vic.edu.au or contact Generations Church on 0493 238 698 or www.generations. org.au

Donations of non-perishable food can be made to the Generations op

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Page 20 – ‘Tatura’s Booming’, November, 2021

TATURA’S Booming

Fuelling our cooking adventures Tatura Family Butchers owner and senior butcher Brady Bourke noticed an interesting trend during the coronavirus lockdowns.

BY ISABELLE HARRIS “I'm finding with COVID-19, people are having a go at doing meals and meats themselves they wouldn't normally do,” Brady said.

“Some things they would normally eat at a restaurant and not cook themselves, people are having a go at trying to cook them at home.”

Brady said buying from a butcher who is passionate about their trade, rather than from a supermarket, lets the customer experience a different way of shopping and eating.

“When you're walking into a butcher shop, you should be able to see the butchers working and they should be passionate — it's about having an experience,” he said.

While supermarket dominance has caused his industry to shrink, Brady loves the business and is still keen to pass on what he calls “the oldest trade in the world”.

Brady Bourke proudly displaying some of his meats that have won many awards, including the Triple M Best Butcher for the Goulburn Valley 2021.

“I've had four to six apprentices with me through a complete four-year course. I've got two that have been here since day one when they started their apprenticeship nine years ago,” he said.

better tradesman at the end of the day; we're always learning.”

“Training with someone who's passionate will definitely make them a

As the world constantly changes, Brady is planning for Tatura Family

Butcher Josh Newton agrees. “It's pretty straightforward, but it definitely is an art,” he said.

Butchers to change along with it.

“We were lucky we had an online shop two years before COVID hit so we were ahead of the game there,” he said.

“We want to continue to grow our business and innovate into different ways of business, so continuing to

bring out new ideas and evolve with the times.”

Tatura Family Butchers is at 161 Hogan St, Tatura, or call them on 5824 1516. For more information or to make an order online, visit: taturafamilybutchers.com

Quirky shop has a novel twist When Sharryn Smith opened her shop Tinkers Twist just over a year ago, she found the overwhelming friendliness towards her new business heartening.

BY ISABELLE HARRIS “Tatura is vibrant and accepting and they like the shop, so the reception has been fantastic,” Sharryn said.

Tinkers Twist is best described as “fun quirky retail with a difference”, featuring upcycled and repurposed goods for homes, gardens and gifts that are unique.

The community's warm reception extended to the book exchange Sharryn started before the last coronavirus lockdown, where passersby could borrow and return books, or simply donate for others' enjoyment.

When the Shepparton COVID-19 outbreak forced the shop to close, Sharryn thought outside the box to continue the exchange.

“I was available to take phone calls and deliver books to whoever needed it,” she said.

“I was able to get a couple of books to the old folks' home for them, some for other people around too.”

Now the restrictions are over and Tinkers Twist is back in all its glory, Sharryn has upgraded her book exchange facilities.

“I've got a room full of kids' and adults' books, some novels, magazines and some DVDs,” she said.

“People can take one and bring it back and we'll replace … as I find (books) I'll add them.”

Sharryn's plans for Tinkers Twist is to go onwards and upwards.

“I just want to grow it and get it out to the public that it (the book exchange) is there, getting people talking.

“I love the community aspect of it, especially when a lot of them (the community) are doing it very hard right now.”

Tinkers Twist is at 148 Hogan St, Tatura, or visit the Tinkers Twist Tatura Facebook page for new items and shop updates.

Sharryn Smith said the book exchange was very popular pre-lockdown, with people often coming by and selecting a book form the box out the front of her shop.

‘Tatura’s Booming’, November, 2021 – Page 21

Spreading some Christmas cheer Tatura Pharmacy's famous Christmas Shopping Day is back in its new format for the second year in a row after last year's success.

By Isabelle Harris

chitter chatter.

Retail manager Tracy Lowry said the event started about eight years ago and had continued due to its success and the joy it brought the community.

“It's good to be shopping locally and supporting your town, and there's the bonus of grabbing a bargain.

“It's a day to give back to the community and the customers,” she said.

“We'll be giving back to customers and saving them from having to drive into Shepp.”

“It's a bit of a fun day where everyone can get some discounts and do some Christmas shopping.”

Much like last year, this year's event will span the whole day to space out customers and avoid overcrowding.

The event will run on November 25, from 9 am until 6 pm, with discounted items available and about 20 door prizes on offer.

“Opening it up for the whole day worked well last year and allowed everyone an opportunity to visit the store,” Tracy said.

Customers can enter into the door prizes draw by writing their name on the back of a receipt and putting it into the box, with winners drawn at random at the end of the day.

She hopes the limited shopping event will be as successful for the pharmacy and customers as it was last year.

“We try to cover all the bases for Christmas gifts, we'll have something for everyone,” Tracy said.

“It's a fun day — everyone gets a bit excited and there's a bit of

Shelley Holness, Fran Mandaradoni, retail manager Tracy Lowry and Franca D'Aloia are all ready for the once-a-year shopping event at Tatura Pharmacy.

“We really enjoy offering different shopping experiences; it makes it interesting and fun for the customers.”

For more information, contact Tatura Pharmacy via its Facebook page or phone 5824 1043.

TDiggers

A huge range of special and discounted products will be on offer throughout the special event.

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The store is already decorated and ready to usher in holiday cheer.

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Page 22 – ‘Tatura’s Booming’, November, 2021

TATURA’S Booming

Hill Top ready for a summer of fun After seemingly never-ending coronavirus restrictions, Hill Top Golf & Country Club is ready to open for the summer.

By ISABELLE HARRIS The celebrations will kick-off with the annual family Christmas party on December 19.

The event, which will include live music and a jumping castle for the kids, will be just the start of a summer of fun and family-friendly events.

Hill Top Golf & Country Club general committee member Drew Curtis said staff were excited to welcome back the local community as restrictions ease.

“We look forward to hosting regular live music, weddings, birthdays and other special occasions throughout 2022,” Drew said.

Hill Top offers bistro dining, a spacious bar area, undercover deck dining, outdoor lawn tables and can even incorporate barefoot bowls and golf into celebratory functions.

They will also have plenty of kids' entertainment, including a games room and a jumping castle that will be set up outside each weekend

throughout December, subject to weather conditions.

And with the holiday season drawing ever-closer, preparations are ramping up in time for upcoming Christmas functions.

“Hill Top Golf & Country Club has a range of options for groups of all sizes for your end-of-year celebrations,” Drew said. “(You can) build a package to suit your requirements. From finger food to a two-course meal and everything in between, the choice is yours.”

Hill Top has a new head chef, Peter Bugeja, who will be bringing quality meals and varied cuisine to regular and function dining with a brand-new menu.

“Peter and his team have done a fantastic job navigating their way through lockdowns and density restrictions in 2021 — though we have enjoyed his takeaway meals during lockdown,” Drew said.

TATURA PHARMACY Don’t miss our Annual Christmas Shopping Day! Thursday, November 25th from 9am – 6pm.

Lots of amazing gift ideas for Christmas, 25% discount (excludes fragrance) also lots of beautiful hampers to be won.

Enter the draw for them with any giftware purchase of $10 or more.

Onsite dining at Hill Top Golf & Country Club is an excellent choice for celebration functions, including birthdays and Christmas events.

And to lift the celebrations even further, Hill Top Golf & Country Club is offering a 30 per cent discount to new members for the first year.

Drew said a range of membership options were available, including senior-specific, junior, remote, intermediate and more — all set for the primed and ready 18-hole course.

He recommended getting in contact with the friendly management team about Christmas and function package options quickly to avoid disappointment.

Head chef Peter Bugeja and his team are ready for new events and functions at Hill Top Golf and Country Club.

For all other information, including membership inquiries, visit the Hill Top Golf & Country Club website at www.hilltopgolfclub.com.au or via email at info@hilltopgolfclub.com.au or phone 58241689.

Christmas

Treats Galore!

CHRISTMAS HAMPERS, CAKES, PUDDINGS AND SHORTBREAD NOW AVAILABLE!

We would like to invite

everyone into our Bakery to try our new products as well as the traditional favourites…

Don’t miss this event!

Follow us on FB for more information.

DID YOU KNOW

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Go a love the taste Award Winning Bakery George, Sophia & Olivia Wells | 130 Hogan St, Tatura | Ph: 5824 1267

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‘Tatura’s Booming’, November, 2021 – Page 23

Matters - Tatura

December 2021

WISHING YOU A MERRY CHRISTMAS The staff at Tatura Hopsital and Parkvilla Aged Care have been working tirelessly throughout the year to ensure a high standard of care has been given to the residents of Parkvilla and patients in the hospital.

We’re very fortunate to have such a high calibre of staff who care so expertly for the people of the Tatura community.

We have also welcomed Jenny John to a Community Health Coordinator position at the Tatura campus, and we look forward to her establishing this role which will benefit the Tatura community.

Soon we will be celebrating Christmas with the residents and welcoming in the New Year of 2022, we would like to take this opportunity to wish all in the Tatura community a special Christmas and New Year.

CRC AND AUXILIARY NEWS We have been very fortunate to have the work and support of the Tatura Ladies Auxiliary and Community Reference Committee (CRC).

The CRC have funded replacement chairs for our Acute Hospital as well as two electric recliners which we are looking forward to receiving.

The Tatura Ladies Auxiliary assisted in the completion of the palliative room by kindly providing funding for window coverings, following on from their funding of replacing the flooring.

Not being able to meet in person for most of 2021, the CRC has continued to work hard and have met by Microsoft Teams to ensure the ongoing support and improvements have been maintained.

We welcome any interest in becoming a committee member, information packs are available from the Tatura campus administration office.

HOW DOES OUR GARDEN GROW? Our garden at the rear of Parkvilla is growing with thanks to the beautiful rain and warmer days.

More plants are to be purchased to complete this area along with the garden alongside the path to the Wisteria.

Many thanks to nurses Sue Walters and Michelle Flannagan for their knowledge and expertise in beautifying these areas, it is making a big difference.

We are working on improving our vegetable garden and are looking forward to the residents having the options of being involved in the garden with the end result of cooking with the produce they are growing.

UPCOMING EVENTS 100 Lap Challenge When: February 2022 – date to be confirmed Hospital Sunday When: Date yet to be advised for 2022

INTERPRETER SERVICES

For a full list of all Goulburn Valley Health Services, visit www.gvhealth.org.au

64-68 Park Street, Tatura VIC 3616 Australia

Translation

P 03 5824 8400 E taturaadmin@gvhealth.org.au Like us on Facebook (Italian)

Follow us on Instagram

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If you require an interpreter when visiting the hospital, ask a GV Health staff member.

CREATE. Outstanding.

Page 24 – ‘Tatura’s Booming’, November, 2021