JUST DOWN THE ROAD

NEW SOUTH WALES

WOMBOOTA

COHUNA

LEITCHVILLE

GUNBOWER

TORRUMBARRY

PYRAMID HILL LOCKINGTON

ROCHESTER

DENILIQUIN

MATHOURA

BARMAH

MOAMA

MURRAY RIVER

ECHUCA

TONGALA

VICTORIA

KYABRAM

Torrumbarry Fishing Classic to return in April

HUNDREDS OF AVID ANGLERS WILL CHANNEL THEIR INNER REX HUNT AND WET A LINE ON THE MIGHTY MURRAY COME THE FIRST WEEKEND OF APRIL FOR THE RETURN OF THE TORRUMBARRY COMMUNITY CLUB XTREME MARINE FISHING CLASSIC.

Competitors will be hoping for ‘big ones’ and ‘whoppers’ alike at the 2022 edition which takes place over April 2 and 3. After two COVID-19-impacted events, Torrumbarry Community Club’s Sam Colvin said preparing for this year’s competition had been challenging. “Planning this year has been fairly different to the last. With that many different COVID-19 rules and regulations changing, by the time you get something set you have to change it again,” he said. “The community support behind it is huge though. Planning a comp like Torrumbarry is a lot easier when you have local businesses around you offering their support.” Usual participants of the fishing classic will notice some changes to this year’s competition, most noticeably the shift of fishing boundaries and food vans. But the same events are on offer, with prizes for longest cod, longest yellowbelly and carp lotto, along with junior prizes and raffles. “No real big changes to this year. Apart from on the Saturday at the main camp we will be having woodfire pizza and a couple of food vans,” Sam said. “This year people can fish from Cameron’s Creek right up to the All The Rivers Run caravan park. Each end of our competition boundaries are clearly marked with buoys and our local fishing club marshalling each end. “We have a capped limit of 500 entrants, last year going very close to our limit … as a committee we found (that COVID-19) didn’t really impact numbers at that point. Everyone was just keen to get out on the water by that stage.”

For more information, go to Torrumbarry Community Club’s Facebook page.

Step back in time at the Pioneer Settlement

STEP BACK IN TIME AT PIONEER SETTLEMENT IN SWAN HILL AND SEE FIRST-HAND WHAT LIFE WAS LIKE IN A TYPICAL MALLEE TOWN IN THE EARLY 1820S TO 1850S.

With four diff erent types of homesteads showing diff erent lifestyles at the time, through to a town, including blacksmiths, church and schools, as well as shops such as a post offi ce, chemist and bakery, it is easy to immerse yourself into the lifestyle of a town back in that era. An agricultural area shows off some of the earliest and more unusual examples of Australian farm machinery including headers, strippers, tractors and ploughs. And that is only the beginning. You can also enjoy a horse and carriage ride, or maybe a cruise on the Murray River aboard the PS Pyap if that is more your scene, with daily cruises. Each evening, a laser and light spectacular ‘Heartbeat on the Murray’ is held at Pioneer Settlement, telling the story of the Murray River from formation until today.

Pioneer Settlement is located at 125 Monash Dve in Swan Hill, and is open every day except Christmas Day and Boxing Day.

Bookings are recommended for the boat rides and the ‘Heartbeat of the Murray’ laser and light spectacular, and can be made online at pioneersettlement.com.au or by phoning 1800 981 911.

Kyabram Rodeo set for triumphant return

THE KYABRAM SHOWGROUNDS WILL BE AT THEIR BUSTLING BEST THIS LABOUR DAY LONG WEEKEND AS THE MUCH-LOVED RODEO ROLLS INTO TOWN.

A staple of the community for over 75 years, the event was cancelled for the first time in 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, making this year’s rodeo extra special with the addition of a new-look bar area and with live music set to thrill the local crowd. Kyabram Show Society secretary Janelle McDonald said locals could expect the rodeo to be bigger and better in 2022.

“We are really looking forward to it and are hoping like crazy it goes ahead, we really do need events like this for life to keep going forward,” she said. “This year we will have all the usual events with the horses, the bulls, and the usual rodeo atmosphere, we will hopefully have sideshows (depending on COVID-19 protocols) and we will have live music for a couple of hours after the event before the bar closes.” An event that always brings the town together, Ms McDonald said she could not wait to see the Kyabram locals out in force. “Everyone is really keen to get back up and going again after the year off, hoping we get the support of the town like we always have,” she said. “The town has been amazing in supporting us every year and I am so excited to see everyone out at the showgrounds having a great time.”

cluBarham

The best place on the Murray for food, accomodation, and entertainment Try out our new food options!

It’s Elvis, direct from Graceland

BENDIGO ART GALLERY WILL BE GRACED WITH AN INCREDIBLE COLLECTION OF ELVIS PRESLEY’S CLOTHES, TREASURED ITEMS AND MEMORABILIA, FROM MARCH 19 TO JULY 22.

Direct from the Graceland archive, the exclusive exhibition will showcase highlights such as Elvis and Priscilla’s wedding outfi ts, the repurposed ‘68 special costume he wore to meet US President Richard Nixon, the diamond-encrusted Maltese cross necklace designed by Linda Thompson, and a dazzling array of Vegas jumpsuits. Elvis’s idiosyncratic style was as sensational as his music, and evolved over time. The exhibition also moves beyond the familiar story of his musical and acting career to present his more private side — his devotion to his parents, his love of books, motorcycles, horses and karate and the haven he created in Graceland for his friends and family. Personal treasures on show will include his gold telephone, karate gi, his fi rst-grade crayon box from Tupelo, and the bongos Priscilla gifted him on their fi rst Christmas together in 1959. Elvis’s infl uence on music, design, art, and pop culture was profound and he is remembered as a history-making public fi gure of the 20th century.

“FANCY YOURSELF AS A PRESENTER?” AS A PRESENTER?” ?

Echuca Moama Community Radio EMFM 104.7 is a not-for-pro t incorporated local radio station run by volunteers. We provide locally oriented music programs, interviews, current events, news, weather and warnings in emergency situations. EMFM broadcast across Echuca, Moama, Mathoura, Torrumbarry, Lockington, Elmore and Kyabram and stream to the internet 24/7.

Community Radio at its best

Would you like to host your own show? We are always looking for new volunteers. Go on give us a call (03) 5480 2085. Tickets are on sale now and prices vary.

Visit bendigoregion.com.au/bendigo-art-gallery to plan your visit.

Every Monday, Wednesday and Friday

the team at the Riverine Herald are dedicated to bringing you ‘Your News’.

Local news and information, sport, videos, photo galleries, breaking news, opinion, announcements, opportunities, triumphs and entertainment.

Friday, December 3, 2021

$1.60 (inc. GST)

Friday, December 31, 2021

$1.60 (inc. GST)

Monday, January 3, 2022

SINCE 1863 RIVERINEHERALD.COM.AU

5482 1111

C O L O U R

RUN Codee Smith (top left) and William Thornton were enthusiastic participants in the Twin Rivers Specialist School’s Colour Run this week. More photos by

Steve Huntley on Page 12 today.

SUMMER SCHOOL

By Rohan Aldous

Campaspe shire will set up a “summer school”-style series of meetings early next year for community and sporting organisations seeking financial support through shire grants programs.

At the November meeting of council less than a quarter of the 30 organisations who had applied for funding had their applications to the Community Grants scheme refused because “they did not meet the brief”.

Just $22,000 of the $88,000 available in the December budget was allocated.

Fortunately, those same applications are likely to be successful early next year — albeit with a reduced financial commitment from the shire — with the introduction of Community Equipment Grants.

Applications for that new program close on January 31 next year.

The new equipment grants program halved the amount (from $4000 to $2000) that groups could apply for after most of the applications received for the Community Grants program were rejected because they did not tick enough boxes.

Mayor Chrissy Weller said because of COVID-19 the regular submission writing sessions that council had held in previous years had not taken place. "Next year we will be running the submission writing sessions to help groups put together their applications,“ Cr Weller said.

“The community are doing some really great stuff, but in some cases the applications do not necessarily fulfil what the application needs.”

The community grants evenings will provide advice to groups on how best to prepare their submissions for a successful result.

Cr Weller said groups did not necessarily have to wait for those sessions and could call council officers at any point for advice. "People don’t have to wait for a training session. I would encourage people to reach out if they need some advice,“ she said.

$1.60 (inc. GST)

Friday, January 7, 2022

SINCE 1863 RIVERINEHERALD.COM.AU

5482 1111

SCOUTS JAM IN

By Rohan Aldous

Echuca-Moama can expect a major spin-off from the biggest Victorian Scout event to be held in the region — the Victorian Scouting Jamboree, known as VicJam — being staged at Elmore Events Centre for the next eight days.

There are 4500 Scouts camping at Elmore for the jamboree, having arrived mid-way through Wednesday and with events scheduled up until January 8.

Among those events is the Echuca Explorer, where more than 80 groups will be spending an hour taking in the sights and experiences of Echuca as part of their VicJam experience.

Australian film star Shane Jacobson officially launched VicJam on Wednesday evening in a gala event at the “Scout city”.

Mr Jacobson was a Scout with 1st Keilor, 15th Essendon and Snowy Morcom Rover Crew. He regularly attends Scouting events.

He appeared alongside the Melbourne Gang Show, which is the Scouting and Guiding theatre production arm.

Continued on page 6

Close to home (above): 1st Echuca Scout Group members Michael, Cody, Kaitlin, Emily, Emily and Shanae at the badge swapping marquee, which will be a feature of the 11-day Victorian Scouting jamboree VicJam, staged at the Elmore Events Centre. Photos: Adam Patching, Scouting Victoria, VicJam

Chief Scout (right): Australian television and movie star Shane Jacobson, a former Scout, officially opened the VicJam event at Elmore on Wednesday. More photos on Page 6 today.

Governments buy millions of rapid antigen tests

Free rapid antigen tests will be made available in Victoria and NSW after both governments confirmed they had purchased millions of the tests. A national cabinet meeting yesterday was expected to deliver a plan for the distribution of the tests, for home use, in Australia. “Rapid antigen testing is the way that Victorians can have confidence as they go about living with COVID and making sure that they do their bit to keep the pressure off our hard working hospitals," Victorian Health Minister Martin Foley said on Wednesday. “We would much prefer to have a national approach to what is a national, indeed an international, supply issue, but failing that as per usual, the states have had to step up over the course of this pandemic and fill the gap left.“ The first of the deliveries will arrive this week, with more arriving in the weeks soon after, however, the distribution of the tests is still being worked out. Premier Daniel Andrews, who is on leave, was in attendance at the national cabinet meeting. Victoria is already handing out free rapid tests in some circumstances, including to students and staff exposed at schools. There has been a nationwide shortage of the RATs at supermarkets and pharmacies amid soaring infection numbers, the announcement of the Federal Government expected to relieve Australians of the $15 to $20 RAT kit price tag. Victoria has purchased 34 million rapid tests allowing people to take their own nasal swab and find out immediately if they have Covid-19. A Federal Government injection of $375 million, for 50 million of the kits, follows on from an earlier purchase of 10 million RAT kits. Victoria recorded 5137 new COVID-19 cases yesterday, another new record, while the NSW tally reached 12,226. Travellers required to get tests to leave Victoria were in part behind the testing overload. “Take Boxing Day, for instance, over 40 per cent of the tests that were done at PCR state locations were for interstate travel,” Mr Foley said. People who are getting a PCR test for travel purposes are encouraged to get tested after 12pm when the demand is lower. Hospitalisations have jumped from Tuesday, too, from 361 to 397, bringing the seven-day average to 379.

$1.60 (inc. GST)

Monday, January 24, 2022

$1.60 (inc. GST)

Photo: Steve Huntley

SINCE 1863 RIVERINEHERALD.COM.AU

5482 1111

WILD RIDE INTO 2022

Rich River Golf Club provided a spectacular backdrop for Riv Herald photographer Steve Huntley’s drone shots of the New Year’s Eve fi reworks spectacular. The celebrations lit up the last few holes of the course and the clubhouse. Meanwhile, editor Rohan Aldous spent the fi rst night of the new year at the Echuca Harness Racing Club event where Cora Prewett took on the bucking bull and John Caldow drove Kyabramtrained Jackson Square to victory for Mick Blackmore, and Stanhope owner Mac Poole. More in sport today.

SINCE 1863 RIVERINEHERALD.COM.AU

5482 1111

GALLERY HOPE

Wow factor (above and

right): In August last year Brandrick Architects provided its services to re-design the Bridge Art Project’s proposed art gallery, which is now awaiting state government funding approval.

By Rohan Aldous

Murray River Council Mayor Chris Bilkey and the Bridge Art Project committee are hoping that news of a successful state government grant in the next month will allow them to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the group’s formation.

The Bridge Art Project committee was formed in January 2012, and 10 years later is on the cusp of its greatest achievement: securing $5 million in funding for the development of the Meninya St gallery.

An application through the NSW Tourism Activation Grant program was submitted in August, but the committee has had an expected response date pushed back twice.

Land purchased by the committee in 2019, between Madison Spa and Echuca Moama Physiotherapy, will be the site of the new Bridge Art Project gallery.

It will serve as an entry point to a path, which will extend all the way to the river and provide a unique artistic experience for visitors and Echuca-Moama residents alike.

Cr Bilkey, who is chairman of the project committee, said it was expecting news of the most recent grant application later this month.

“They promised us an answer in early December, then delayed it again to January,” he said. “So it is a waiting game at this point.”

The committee is much more upbeat about the chances of the grant being approved, having fallen at several hurdles in the application process in previous years.

“We used some funds which we were able to secure through a gala dinner fundraising event held in Hoping for grant: Moama to Echuca Bridge Arts Project chairman Cr Chris Bilkey, secretary Lynne Gillard and deputy chairman Barry Donchi.

conjunction with Moama Lights and through the support of Moama Bowling Club to secure the services of a professional to help prepare the submission,” Cr Bilkey said.

“And we were delighted to have our architects add the wow factor we needed by re-designing the building.

“Brandrick Architects prepared a new design at no charge.”

The re-design was done in August 2021.

It will be the showpiece of the project, which will follow a corridor of land which was gifted to the group early in its existence.

Continued on page 5

Out of stock: Moama pharmacist Mark Nulty says the Moama stores have no rapid antigen tests in stock.

New test rules for Victoria

By Rohan Aldous

In the biggest change to the COVID-19 testing system since the beginning of the pandemic, Victorians won’t have to line up to get a PCR test and wait for their result to be diagnosed with COVID-19 — meaning shorter wait times and faster access to clinical care. Under new pandemic orders that come into effect at 11.59pm on Thursday night, January 6, people who test positive on a rapid antigen test (RAT) will be considered probable cases and be subject to the same requirements as confirmed cases from a PCR test — they must isolate immediately for seven days and notify their contacts. Echuca and Moama pharmacies are waiting on orders for rapid antigen tests to be filled as frustrated community members are forced to wait hours in line at the Rotary Park PCR testing site. It will be mandatory to report the result of a positive RAT to the Department of Health through an online form or by phone — ensuring people can access the care and information they need, including monitoring for worsening symptoms and financial support for isolation.

Continued on page 9

SINCE 1863 RIVERINEHERALD.COM.AU

THONGS & 2022 WHARF TO WINERY SWIM SONGS

5482 1111

Thongs and songs awaited swimmers in the Wharf to Winery 3km swim event on Sunday morning. Will Gronow, 3, and fi ve-year-old sister Josie show off the thongs, which competitors are handed when leaving the water to climb the rocky path to Morrison’s Winery. More on Page 6 today.

Photo: Rohan Aldous

RAPID TESTS FOR SCHOOL S

Students and teachers will undergo twice weekly rapid testing and third COVID-19 vaccine doses will be mandated for eduction staff under Victoria’s back-to-school strategy.

Premier Daniel Andrews says 6.6 million RATs will be delivered to schools and early childhood centres across the state before primary and secondary students resume classes on January 31.

In all, 14 million will be distributed during the state’s surveillance testing regime, which will be reviewed after four weeks.

“It is about finding as many cases as we can and shutting down those chains of transmission,” Mr Andrews said yesterday.

Parents will be contacted by schools when the tests are ready to be picked up.

Once in their possession, students and staff are requested to use them twice every week at home before school or childcare.

Students and staff at specialist schools are recommended to take a test every school day to protect medically vulnerable children from severe illness.

The cost of supplying the tests will be split 50/50 between the Victorian and federal governments under an existing arrangement.

A similar plan has been announced by NSW, after collaboration between the two states.

A third immunisation dose will also become compulsory for Victorian school and early childhood staff by February 25, or within three months and two weeks of when they had their second jab.

Education Minister James Merlino said 99.7 per cent of staff were double-dose vaccinated by the end of term four last year.

“I have got every confidence that staff will enthusiastically respond to the third dose vaccine mandate,” Mr Merlino said.

The move was based on Chief Health Officer Brett Sutton’s advice that it would mitigate outbreaks in schools amid the Omicron wave and give the workforce greater protection.

While asymptomatic education staff identified as close contacts can continue working with daily negative rapid tests, a replacement worker pool is being recruited to plug expected gaps in government schools.

Continued on page 3 Curtis goes to Town as records tumble

Echuca opening batsman Curtis Townrow rewrote the record books on Saturday when he blasted 14 sixes in his unbeaten 255-run innings at Victoria Park — in doing so recording the highest individual score in Goulburn Murray Cricket Association history. The record-breaking innings came at the expense of Echuca South, who was bundled out for just 50 in reply to the giant Echuca total of 6-359. Townrow exploded out of the blocks after his team won the toss, his threehour, 45-over innings the feature of his team’s enormous total at the closure of its one-day innings. Echuca South opening bowler Shaun Haffenden may have seen the Townrow innings coming as he left the field injured

255 NOT OUT

after bowling just one after bowling just one delivery of his second over. Townrow’s 255 not out came from 147 deliveries and included 188 runs from boundaries (14 sixes and 26 fours).

▯ Josh Huntly’s full story is in today’s six big pages of sport.

28 Percy Street, Echuca 5482 1111 www.riverineherald.com.au

Riverine Herald

Elmore Send Off Summer BNS Ball

LOOKING FOR MR OR MRS RIGHT? LOOK NO FURTHER THAN THE ELMORE BACHELOR AND SPINSTERS BALL.

The rip-snorting, line-dancing event will take place on Saturday, March 12, at Elmore Events Centre with gates opening at 1 pm. Be prepared to drink, eat and dance the night away with a crowd of other spunky singles, taking in the hit line-up of James Johnston, Boots N All, Emily Hatton and Zara Lindeman. Elmore Charity Ball Committee Inc. secretary Hollie Hildebrandt said people would come from all over to join in on the action. “It’s the biggest ball in Australia, this year will be our 17th annual ball,” she said. The ball’s dress code is strictly black tie: black pants, white shirt and tie for men, and white dress for women.

With current restrictions meaning no indoor dancefloors, Ms Hildebrandt said the event has had to change slightly in format. “We’re still planning to go ahead and push on, we’re hosting the ball as an outdoor event so we can have a COVID-safe and friendly environment for our community and patrons.” Tickets entitle patrons to a dinner feast, 10 free drinks and a range of activities.

Tickets are $140 and must be prepaid; sales begin on February 1, 2022. Visit the Elmore Summer Send Off BNS Ball Facebook page for more information.

Egg-cellent day out at the Mathoura Easter Fair

MATHOURA’S EASTER FAIR IS BACK FOR ANOTHER YEAR WITH ENTERTAINMENT GALORE THAT IS SURE TO KEEP THE WHOLE FAMILY ENTERTAINED.

The annual fair will be held on Easter Saturday, April 16, at Memorial Park from 9 am to 1 pm. “There is going to be a lot for the kids this year, with a lot of rides and carnival games available,” Mathoura Events Committee president John Cavanagh said. “We’re going to have lots of carnival food, like fairy floss available as well as some great showbags for the kids. “But don’t worry, there will of course be plenty for the adults too.” Entry to the fair will be free, with rides being ticketed. However, a wristband will be available for purchase at the entrance so children can use the rides multiple times. “We’re going to sell wristbands for the rides. They won’t be expensive, but it will allow the kids to get the most out of the rides,” Mr Cavanagh said. “The fair is a great local attraction. It brings a real sense of community to the town and is just a great day out for the entire family.” The Mathoura Easter Fair will be held at Memorial Park, Livingston St, Mathoura, on Saturday, April 16 from 9 am – 1 pm.

Full steam ahead for the Easter Heritage Festival

ABOUT AN HOUR FROM ECHUCA, AND TWO HOURS FROM MELBOURNE, THE LITTLE TOWN OF RUSHWORTH’S HERITAGE-LISTED BUILDINGS ARE A SIGHT TO SEE.

And what better time to visit than during the town’s Easter Heritage Festival? Market co-ordinator Peter Reade said the event was a great weekend for locals and tourists alike. On average, the festival attracts about 5000 people annually. “A lot of people come up from Melbourne and surrounding areas for sure,” Mr Reade said. As one of the few National Trust-recognised towns in Victoria, the vintage steam tractors in the street parade and the Moora draught horses that visit the festival on Sunday blend right in with the scenery. Accompanied by about 100 market stalls selling everything from crafts to fresh fruit and vegetables, you could be convinced you had stepped back in time. “It’s got that character,” Mr Reade said. “The spectacle of the horses, the steam tractors and the market itself (encourages visitors) to get out and about and explore the area.”

The 2022 Rushworth Easter Heritage Festival kicks off on Saturday, April 16, from 8 am.

Muster the family to Moora this Easter

SEE HOW FIELDS WERE PLOUGHED IN THE OLDEN DAYS USING THE STRENGTH OF THE WORKING DRAUGHT HORSE.

After two years of the COVID-19 pandemic, the 12th annual Moora Working Horse Draught Muster will be back this Easter better than ever, with activities for all and horses galore. “We will have horses working and ploughing the ground, harrowing, scarifying and pulling a variety of horse-drawn vehicles,” muster secretary Jenni Croft said. “We have got other attractions too, like kids’ novelties such as the Easter bunny and a longreining obstacle course.” With plenty to do, Mrs Croft said it was a good opportunity to get out and have fun. “It’ll all be open spaces and not enclosed and there is lots to see, and it’s good to get out and about with community spirit … I just like seeing the people get excited about the horses,” she said. Entry to the event is by gold coin donation, with food and drink available.

The muster will take place on Easter Sunday, April 17, at the Moora Racecourse and Recreation Reserve (6 km west of Rushworth). Gates open at 9am; the event starts at 10.30am and finishes at 4.30pm. For more information visit the Facebook page

@MooraWorkingDraughtHorseMuster

Rochester Mural Festival brings colourful action to town

NOW IN ITS EIGHTH YEAR, THE ROCHESTER MURAL FESTIVAL IS SET TO ONCE AGAIN BRING COLOURFUL ACTION TO TOWN.

The festival will kick off with a ticketed artist’s dinner on March 19 at Rochester Racecourse Recreation Reserve catered for by Harvest Taste. During the welcome dinner, all artists will unveil their mini murals before they begin painting large works the following day, March 20. The week-long event concludes on Sunday, March 27, when judges deliberate and winners are announced. The festival received 22 entries this year and the small town festival’s outstanding reputation was apparent, with one entrant submitting from as far away as South Africa. The 2022 artists will complete eight murals, and are as follows: Jared Farrow, Kerry Nicholson, Gren Freeman, Chris Duffy, Marco Pennacchia, Christina Rankin, Rebecca Murray with Graham Wilson, and Maryann Jenkins with Joyce Dempsey. Organisers are committed to ensuring the free outdoor event is COVID-safe, and all artists will be vaccinated. The theme for this year’s festival is ‘paint us a song’. Other attractions to check out over the course of the festival include an art exhibition in the court house and Devonshire teas hosted by Rotary.

For more information visit

rochestermuralfest.com.au

or find the festival on Facebook.

Shepparton

GV Country Music Festival set for Shepparton in April

PUT ON YOUR FLANNEL AND YOUR RM WILLIAMS FOR THE GOULBURN VALLEY COUNTRY MUSIC FESTIVAL.

Shepparton

Featuring a world-class line-up, including country music stars Lee Kernaghan, Casey Barnes and Brad Cox, it’s safe to say the who’s-who of the country music scene will be in attendance. On top of the world-class line-up, rides, whip cracking demonstrations, market stalls and plenty of amazing food and drink options will be available to ensure that all festival-goers have plenty to keep them entertained. “This really is a festival of all things country,” festival director Aidan McLaren said. “We’ve tried to make it as welcoming to all, so that people of all ages can really enjoy the day. “It’s going to be a great day, with an awful amount of fun to be had,” Mr McLaren said. The festival will provide Goulburn Valley residents a chance to support the local music scene, which has had a challenging couple of years due to the pandemic. “We hope that people will come and support the industry and have a good time,” Mr McLaren said. “We encourage people to just turn up with their camping chair and picnic rug and have a great time.” The festival will be held at the Shepparton Showgrounds on Sunday, April 10 with entertainment beginning at noon. Tickets are $99 for adults, $40 for teenagers and $10 for children under the age of 10. Buses will be available on the day to transport festival-goers to and from the showgrounds.

Tickets can be purchased on the Goulburn Valley Country Music Festival website at

www.goulburnvalleycountrymusicfestival.com.au

Start your engines

IT’S TIME TO START YOUR ENGINES AND DUST OFF THE GPS FOR THE ANNUAL LOCKINGTON VINTAGE TRACTOR AND MACHINERY RALLY.

The rally, which is into its 24th year, will feature vintage and historic cars, trucks, tractors and stationary engines. Event organiser Beryl Marshall expects the rally to have more than 100 classic machines for visitors to see. “We expect to have over 40 cars, and the same number of tractors too, as well as over 20 beautiful vintage stationary engines.” Ms Marshall said the event was great for younger children as it could teach them about how machines used to work before computers and phones. “The machines won’t just be sitting there, people will be able to see these old machines really running, especially children who may have never seen machines like these before,” Ms Marshall said. A `Sunday roast’ will be off ered on Saturday and Sunday for all visitors, with the Lions Club also organising a barbecue. Tickets can be purchased at the rally, with admission costing $10 each for those aged 12 and older. Lockington’s fi fth annual scarecrow competition will also be held on the same weekend.

The rally will run from 9am to 4pm on April 23 and 24 at 2-10 Market St, Lockington, Victoria.

Celebrate Aussie stockmen at the annual Barmah Muster

AFTER THE 2021 SUCCESS OF THE WILDLY POPULAR BARMAH MUSTER, LOCALS WILL BE OVERJOYED TO KNOW THAT IT’S BACK FOR 2022.

The 26,000 hectare Barmah red gum forest will come alive with the rich sounds of whip-cracking, stockmen, dogs, cattle and horses. With the first muster dating back to 1874, the event was originally the round-up of cattle in Barmah Forest, but the muster in recent years has evolved into an action-packed three-day weekend event set in and around the yards at the edge of the forest on either side of the beautiful Murray River. The muster this year will have something for everybody, with trail rides, horse training demonstrations, camp oven tea, yarn spinning, whip cracking and much more. For those looking for a challenge, events like team penning, two-handed cutting, whip cracking as well as timber cutting will be on offer during the weekend. There will be catering and a licensed bar running, with a number of musical acts expected to play across the weekend. Camping facilities will also be available on-site. The muster will run across three days staring on Friday, April 29, 2022. For more information visit

google.com/site/barmahmuster/

Just down the road

YOUR JOURNEY DOESN’T HAVE TO END AT THE TOWN LIMITS. YOU’LL FIND PLENTY TO SEE AND DO IN ECHUCA-MOAMA’S SURROUNDING TOWNS.

Mathoura

41 KM FROM ECHUCA

Mathoura offers visitors the chance to see forest and waterways, as well as the chance to discover the district’s fascinating natural and cultural heritage. Check out the bird observatory, Picnic Point recreation area and the pioneer cemetery. Mathoura Visitor and Business Centre is also a must for wine tasting, buying local jams, honey, art and craft and to learn about Mathoura’s history. The Mathoura Speed Shear is an annual fundraiser for cancer which celebrates the talent of local shearers.

Leitchville

36 MINS FROM ECHUCA

Leitchville is just a short drive from the ecologically significant wildlife site known as Kow Swamp. The swamp is rich in bird and fish life and is water storage for the Torrumbarry irrigation scheme. A picnic area on the east side of the lake is complete with swimming area, toilets and barbecue facilities. More barbecue facilities are available at the north end of the swamp, an area commonly used for fishing. Leitchville is also an RV friendly town.

Kyabram

33 MINS FROM ECHUCA

Situated between Echuca and Shepparton, Kyabram is in the centre of dairy and orchard country. The Kyabram Fauna Park set on 55 hectares showcases over 500 native animals, birds and reptiles in their natural environment. The park also features a cottage built in 1867 for French adventurer Theodore Hazelman.

Pyramid Hill

55 MINS FROM ECHUCA

Pyramid Hill is named after the granite hill that looms out of the countryside. In spring rare wildflowers may be found blooming amongst the rocks and it is a great place to spend an afternoon clambering over the rocks. Other interesting places to visit in the area include Terrick Terrick National Park and Mt Hope, as well as the town’s museum. Terrick Terrick National Park is 20 km south-east of the town and supports more than 200 species of native flora, including many rare and threatened species. Scenic drives take visitors to grasslands, granite outcrops, eucalypt woodlands and historical farming sites.

Deniliquin

78 KM FROM ECHUCA

Set on the Edward River, Deniliquin offers a variety of activities for visitors, including bushwalking and water sports. The Peppin Heritage and Visitor Information Centre is the ideal starting point. Heritage walks take you past the town’s historic buildings and along the tree-lined river to the Island Sanctuary, where abundant bird life can be seen. Markets are held on the fourth Saturday of each month in the Waring Gardens. Famous for the Deniliquin Ute Muster in October, Deniliquin also celebrates the Sun Festival and rodeo in January.

Torrumbarry

19 MINS FROM ECHUCA

The Torrumbarry Loch is a great place to spend a few hours. Marvel at the majestic loch or take a wander through the heritage display and information centre nearby. The original weir was replaced in 1996, but major parts have been preserved including the original steel trestles, which were winched out of the river in times of flood. Camping and barbecue facilities are available.

Cohuna

44 MINS FROM ECHUCA

Cohuna is a peaceful town overlooking the picturesque Gunbower Creek, close to Gunbower Island’s attractions including fishing, boating, canoeing, birdwatching, four-wheel driving and walking tracks. The Gateway Information Centre in the middle of town is an ideal place to discover the area. During the first weekend of March the community hosts the Cohuna Bridge to Bridge — a weekend of great family activity including a half marathon, walk, cycling and running events, to raise money for the hospital. The Cohuna Golf Course is the home course of PGA Tour star Stuart Appleby and the big Cohuna Festival in November is a five day celebration of the town.

Tongala

21 MINS FROM ECHUCA

Tongala was settled by squatters in the 1840s and irrigation ensured the success of this intensive little dairying community. In the township, a series of murals depict the evolution of the dairy industry and groundwater issues. Other murals give an insight into the armed forces, while a monument pays tribute to the Australian Light Horse, and an avenue of honour recalls those who lost their life in the Armoured Corp in Vietnam.

Gunbower

29 MINS FROM ECHUCA

Gunbower is the gateway to Australia’s largest inland island and significant wildlife sanctuary, Gunbower Island. The island is home to protected populations of kangaroos, emus, goannas, possums, snakes and 160 different species of birds. It is an idyllic location for camping, canoeing and a spot of bushwalking or bird watching. The running of the Gunbower Gold Cup in October is a picnic race day out for all the family. Make sure you visit the stunning new mural on the wall of the Gunbower Hotel.

Barmah

31 KM FROM ECHUCA

Barmah is the gateway to the World Heritage listed Barmah National Park which, with the Moira State Park, forms the largest red gum forest in the world. A forest drive from Barmah heads off along River Rd, which is two-wheel drive friendly, but dusty when dry. Kingfisher Wetland Cruises allows people to see the ecology and history of the forest, with some trees estimated to be more than 300 years old and more than 40 m high, the birdlife and its habitats and the Aboriginal significance of the area.

Lockington

33 MINS FROM ECHUCA

Lockington is a small country town in the heart of farming country. Visitors can enjoy a picnic in the landscaped park areas, take a walk following the self-guided heritage walk or choose a route past the mural in the pavilion, the rose garden and Lions flower clock. The Lockington and District Living Heritage Complex is open Sunday afternoons or by appointment if you are looking for a trip down memory lane, while enjoying friendly hospitality.

Womboota

29 MINS FROM ECHUCA

Follow the Perricoota Rd tourist drive to Womboota, a quaint little village settled in the 1870s. Discover the charm and character of the old cottages, churches and other historic buildings such as the Womboota Hall. Enjoy wine and mead tasting or browse through local art and pottery at Womboota’s Old School Winery and Cellar Door Pottery. Explore the Womboota Arboretum, which showcases many species of drought-resistant district plants from the Riverina plains.

Rushworth

53 MINS FROM ECHUCA

Rushworth is a historic gold mining town, steeped in well preserved history and nostalgia. Great views from the fire lookout at Growlers Hill encompass Waranga Basin, Rushworth Forest and the Goulburn Valley. Waranga Basin, to the northeast of the town, is a tourist drawcard providing opportunities for boating, fishing and camping, while south of Rushworth is Whroo Historic Reserve, which represents the remnants of what was once a thriving gold mining town of 1000 people and 139 buildings.

Rochester

23 MINS FROM ECHUCA

Part of the Silo Art Trail with a larger than life azure kingfisher and squirrel glider, this resilient little town is home to many great things including the Rochester Sports Museum containing personal memorabilia from Sir Hubert Opperman’s sporting and political life, Iddles Lane, a handful of historical buildings and more. A life size Oppy bronze statue is situated in Moore Street alongside many colourful and interesting murals created by artists during the annual Mural Festival each March. The murals have become pride of place for the Rochester community. A free event for the public each March, come along to watch the artists at work. For a full map of where to find the murals visit

rochestermuralfest.com.au

Acknowledging the contribution and sacrifice Australian service men and women made during in war, Rochester and Elmore District Health Service Entrance features two sculptures modelled on a WW2 soldier and nurse. A heritage walk from the main bridge to the red brick bridge takes in the old sale yards bull ring, the old water tower and shire hall, while the western bank of the Campaspe River has been set aside as a passive recreation reserve. The Campaspe Weir can be reached by travelling south on the Northern Hwy toward Elmore and turning left on to a gravel road after 9 km.