Natalie, Ruby (dog), Zoe and Emma Bourke from Numurkah. Photo: Emma Harrop
Carols
Queen’s Garden
CHRISTMAS cheer will once again be ringing through the Queen’s Garden, with a star-studded line-up singing all your favourite Christmas Carols, at the 51st Carols by Candlelight, on Sunday, December 21.
This year, the beloved Christmas tradition will feature live music from Anson Kearney, Brianna Lee, Combined Churches, Creating Drama, Julianna de Quilettes, Kaitlyn Martin, Kat Bristol, Kathleen Parry, Nigel Parsons, Ray Gale, Power House Group, Shepparton Brass & Wind, Stevie Renee, St Paul’s
Lutheran Church Choir and Sophie Fimmel.
Carols by Candlelight Committee Chair, Leona Gibbs, said the committee is excited for everyone to enjoy this year’s event.
“We’re looking forward to welcoming the Greater Shepparton community
to Queens Gardens once again for a fantastic celebration,” said Leona.
“We have some wonderful talent lined up to perform a selection of Christmas carols to entertain the crowd, along with fabulous merchandise and a host of food trucks to enjoy. It’s always a treat to see everyone come together to celebrate the festive season.”
Carols by Candlelight start at 6pm with a pre-show from the Shepparton Brass & Wind. The event program will run from 6.30pm to 9pm, so bring your own chair, rug, cushion or blanket for a comfortable evening at the Queens Gardens. Food and drinks will be available for purchase to support local community groups and businesses. This is an alcohol-free event.
You can also tune in via livestream on Council’s website at greatershepparton.com.au or on YouTube at youtube.com/@ GreaterShepparton.
For more information, visit the website shepp.city/sheppartoncarols.
PERFECT FOR GIFTING AT CHRISTMAS...
TerryWhite Chemmart presents an exceptional selection of designer perfumes and cosmetic gift sets, ideal for the festive season, from iconic brands and fashion houses. Pictured from left are Archana Dio, Shelley Poliness, Antonella Loverso, Aphrin Sadiq and Amanda Stuart. Photo: Emma Harrop
The fragrance of thoughtfulness this Christmas
WHEN it comes to choosing a gift that truly conveys thoughtfulness this Christmas, few things compare to a beautiful fragrance or an enticing cologne. TerryWhite Chemmart, located in the heart of Shepparton and long renowned for its exceptional range of designer perfumes and cosmetic gift sets, offers an extensive selection of exquisite scents from iconic fashion houses such as Estée Lauder, Dior, L’Occitane and more.
Whether you’re searching for a classic scent, a luxurious skincare ritual or an elegant beauty edit, the store’s curated Christmas range offers something special for every style and every budget.
For skincare devotees, Elizabeth Arden presents festive season collections to hydrate, tighten and brighten. From the Hydrating & Tightening Set to the Multitasking Beauty Trio, each collection works intensely to replenish, tone and elevate your skin’s radiance for the holiday season.
Fragrance lovers can explore timeless favourites such as Miss Dior Essence, Sauvage Eau de Parfum and convenient Sauvage 10 ml travel sprays, perfect for gifting. From L’Occitane en Provence, beautifully crafted body and skincare offerings await, including the Shea Body Softening Duo and the Almond Beauty Collection.
Shoppers will also find gift packs from Estée Lauder along with a premium assortment from prestige brands such as Napoleon Perdis, Givenchy, Clinique, Lancôme, Inika Organics and Kora Organics. With exclusive fragrances, limited-edition sets and delightful stocking fillers, the Christmas collection is designed to make holiday gifting effortless and inspired.
SANTA Claus is coming with presents for all the good boys and girls, but if you weren’t quite as good as you should have been, a ticket in the Shepparton Club’s Christmas Raffle can fill your Christmas stocking even if you were a little naughty.
On Friday, December 19, the Shepparton Club will give away $1,000 each to 20 lucky winners to make Christmas a little extra special. A perfect present to help pay for those last-minute gifts, the family feast, and all the festive fun.
The Shepparton Club is also holding Christmas Raffles for its members every Tuesday and Friday before Christmas, with loads of prizes like quality hams, vouchers, eco hampers, and even bonus meal prizes for the lucky winners.
The Shepparton Club Christmas Raffle will be live-streamed on Facebook from 4pm on the day for those who can’t be there. Make sure you get your ticket and good luck!
To enter, scan the QR or visit https://pubandclub. co/raffles/shepparton-christmas-raffle/, or drop into the Shepparton Club at 455 Wyndham Street before 4pm, Friday, December 19, for a quiet drink and a scrumptious meal and the chance to share in Raffl
(Formerly Shepparton AMCAL Pharmacy)
Step inside Shepparton’s home of great wine and good advice
AS the festive season approaches and locals turn their attention to long lunches, warm evenings and glasses shared with friends, Phillips Cellars is raising the bar for regional wine lovers. Now supporting more than 50 local wineries and stocking over 350 wines, the local business is a treasure trove for anyone wanting to explore the best our winemakers have to offer. and Sangiovese are showcasing depth and character, while whites such as Picpoul, Grenache blanc and the increasingly popular Fiano—an Italian variety and a
personal favourite of Paul at Phillips Cellars—bring freshness and vibrancy to summer tables.
With Christmas just around the corner, Phillips Cellars is the ideal place to find something truly memorable.
Whether you need a thoughtful gift, bottles for a dinner party, advice for end-of-year celebrations or help matching wine to your menu, Paul’s expertise makes
choosing easy. This festive season, discover something exciting, something local, and something worth sharing.
Phillips Cellars is open Monday to Friday, 9am to 6pm, or 9am to 3pm on Saturdays. Call into 119 Corio Street, Shepparton, to explore the extensive range of wines, beer brewing kits and ingredients, and classic favourite beverages to sip all summer long.
WITH Christmas Day fast approaching, Santa has been making some unexpected stops across the Goulburn Valley, including a special visit to the Goulburn Valley Woodworkers’ workshop, where members say they caught him hard at work at the bandsaw preparing toys for the big day.
Santa, dressed in full festive attire despite
the warm weather, was seen carefully shaping pieces of timber, explaining to volunteers that handmade gifts were still his favourite to deliver. Members of the Woodworkers group said they were delighted to have an early visit from the man in red and were more than happy to lend him access to their tools and workshop space.
The Woodworkers, who are known for their craftsmanship, community projects and charity work, said Santa’s visit was a fun reminder of the joy the festive season brings, and the magic of making things by hand.
Now that Christmas is only two weeks away, locals are being encouraged to keep an eye out, you never know where Santa might pop up next as he prepares for his busiest night of the year.
SIP LOCAL THIS CHRISTMAS… Proudly supporting 50+ local wineries and stocking more than 350 wines, Phillips Cellars is packed with standout regional drops and expert advice to help you choose the perfect bottle for gifting, celebrating or sharing. Pictured is proprietor Paul Phillips. Photo: Deanne Jeffers
Celebrating 25 years of thrift treasures
BURSTING with soul-satisfying bargains and serendipitous finds, Dimmeys Shepparton has long been a destination for heavily discounted apparel, footwear, homewares, rugs, drapery, giftware and more.
Full of character as well as a veritable treasure trove of bargain finds and consistently high-quality products, this much-loved local discount outlet is frequently refreshed by ever-changing inflows of end-of-range, clearance and surplus stock that not only pleases the hip pocket but delights the thrifty shopper.
Stalwart and committed to providing genuine, responsive customer service for 25 years, proprietors Brian and Sharon Baxter have not only witnessed significant changes in the retail landscape but have built many strong and valued relationships with both customers and the community alike. As they celebrate the store’s transition to new ownership; Brian and Sharon are marking the occasion in true Dimmeys fashion – with generosity, gratitude and further discounts! To celebrate their remarkable
quarter century of proprietorship, and to offer one final thankyou to loyal customers, Dimmeys is launching a huge storewide sale, with an extra 30 per cent off across the entire range. Beginning on December 3, the sale will run until 5 pm Christmas Eve, December 24. Shoppers can expect exceptional savings and just in time for the festive season.
Expressing their sincere appreciation for the community, Brain and Sharon said, “We’d like to extend a heartfelt thank you to our wonderful customers and the community for so many years of patronage and support. We are truly grateful.” As Shepparton looks ahead to the next chapter of its iconic discount store, one thing remains certain, you will always find a bargain, at Dimmeys.
Portable fridge deals for
GETTING away on a four-wheel drive adventure or a cosy camping trip with friends and family this holiday season, you’ll want to make sure your food and drinks are stored in a safe place and kept ice cold.
This Christmas, Graham Thomson Motors (GTM) has fantastic specials on its range of Engel portable fridges. Engel has a long-established reputation in Australia for its reliability, tough construction, superb performance and longevity.
To make Christmas extra special, anyone who buys one of GTM’s Engel portable fridges will go into the draw to win a Weber BabyQ.
You
A HEARTFELT THANK YOU... After 25 years, providing Greater Shepparton with a veritable treasure trove of bargain, quality finds, Dimmeys proprietors Brian and Sharon Baxter (pictured) are offering one final thank you to loyal customers before the store changes hands, by launching a huge storewide sale with an extra 30 per cent off across the entire range until 5pm Christmas Eve. Photo: Deanne Jeffers
Now Open!
V’SOUL VIET KITCHEN
Just in time for Christmas! Open 7 days 10am to 9pm
With its inviting atmosphere, authentic flavors and a deep respect for Vietnamese culture, V’Soul Viet Kitchen is more than just a restaurant – it’s a soulful culinary experience.
Signature dishes include steaming bowls of fragrant pho, fresh rice paper rolls filled with herbs, prawns and crisp vegetables; sizzling lemongrass pork and the bold, spicy flavors of bún bò Huế.
Ky is kicking goals this Christmas
IT'S beginning to look a lot like Christmas in Kyabram, with the town proudly decorated and shoppers out supporting local businesses. With ample free parking, extended weekend trading throughout December, delicious eateries and plenty to explore during the school holidays, Kyabram is the place to be this festive season.
The Kyabram Chamber of Commerce, supported by GMCU, is giving shoppers even more reasons to shop in Ky this December.
Running from Thursday, December 11 to Monday, December 22, the Chamber’s ‘12 Days of Christmas’ promotion invites customers to support participating businesses for the chance to win a share of $3,000 in Kyabram First Gift Cards.
There are two $500 gift cards to be won (drawn Dec 18) and two second draw $1,000 gift cards also up for grabs (drawn Dec 23).
To enter, simply make a purchase at a participating Kyabram business and fill in the entry form in store. Kyabram First Gift Cards can be spent at any local business participating in this promotion.
Chamber President Stephen Mullins encouraged everyone to give Ky a go this Christmas, sample the great food, coffee and retail offerings available.
“Christmas is such an important holiday and every dollar spent locally makes a real difference,” Mr Mullins said. “Kyabram is a super friendly town. We have a great retail selection – covering fashion, lifestyle, sporting gear, homewares and giftware – and don’t forget to drop into our restaurants and cafes and sample the wide range of amazing food and coffee during your visit.”
Don’t forget, Kyabram has even more to enjoy this summer, with a brandnew splash park and upgraded wildlife habitats recently opened at Kyabram Fauna Park. Thanks to the State Government’s ‘Kids Go Free’ program,
FESTIVE... Stop past Santa’s Cave at the Kyabram Town Hall running December 13-21 from 11am – 5pm.
SILENT NIGHT... Kyabram has been transformed by Christmas decorations.
Summer deals on 4x4 equipment and more
AS temperatures climb and Christmas draws near, now is the perfect time to prepare your vehicle for the holiday season. Whether heading to the coast, taking the 4WD into the High Country, or simply keeping the family safe on local roads, Solar City Tyres Shepparton /Bridgestone Service Centre and Shepparton 4×4 Offroad Centre have everything you need under one roof.
This December, the team is offering special Christmas deals on 4x4 equipment, accessories, plus wheels and tyres, including new wheel brands. From passenger cars to work utes and 4x4s, customers can expect competitive pricing, fast service and genuine local care.
Summer also puts your air conditioning system to the test. If your car isn’t cooling like it used to—or you’ve noticed unusual smells, weak airflow or extra noise—it’s time for a professional A/C inspection and service. Solar City’s technicians can diagnose issues
early, recharge gas, replace filters and ensure your system performs at its best during the hottest months.
For 4WD enthusiasts, the 4×4 Offroad Centre is fully stocked with accessories, including Stedi driving lights and big savings on the Ironman 4x4 range, including combo deals—perfect gift ideas for Christmas or to get your rig ready for summer adventures.
Drive into summer safely and visit Solar City Tyres Shepparton & 4×4 Offroad Centre at 126-136 New Dookie Road, Shepparton, today.
LIGHTING UP XMAS... Solar City Tyres/Bridgestone Service
with
servicing,
air conditioning systems, and summer savings on great giftware. Pictured below is
representative Brodie Prosser with Solar City Tyres’ range of Stedi driving lights. Photo: Supplied/Emma Harrop
FEELING FESTIVE... Pictured are GV Health Extended Care Auxiliary members at their recent Christmas lunch gathering, held at the Sherbourne Terrace. Pictured from left is Lolene (Public Relations), Marie. Barb, Jenny, Lyn (Vice President), Jaimee and Loretta from the GV Health Foundation and Lisa (President). Photo: Emma Harrop
Unmissable Christmas Day catering
WITH Christmas just weeks away, there’s no better time to celebrate good food and community and Shepparton Chargrilled Chicken at Shepparton Plaza is ready to make the season easier and tastier for everyone. This popular local eatery is known for its hearty meals, friendly service and generous servings and this year they are once again offering convenient Christmas Day catering for pickup.
Take the stress out of cooking for large groups this Christmas without compromising on taste, joy or hearty comfort. Shepparton Chargrilled Chicken’s menu is filled with fresh, tantalising salads, flavoursome hot dishes and homemade desserts that deliver both variety and indulgence.
From gluten-free chicken and chargrilled favourites to Greek salad, roast vegetables and comforting chips and gravy, there’s something for every taste. Their desserts, including homemade baklava, Dubai chocolate brownies and Albanian milk cake, are the perfect finishing touch for a festive meal.
With orders due by December 20 and pickup on Christmas Day, now’s the time to plan a delicious, stress-free holiday feast. Whether you’re feeding a small family or a house full of guests, Shepparton Chargrilled Chicken makes Christmas easier and a whole lot tastier.
Open seven days a week, Shepparton
Behind this well-loved takeaway is the husbandand-wife team Zainab and Besnik Qamili, who pride themselves on serving food that is warm, filling and made with care. Their experience and passion shine through in every dish, which is why locals return again and again.
keeping pets safe this festive season
THE festive season is a joyful time for families, but it can also bring unexpected risks for pets. From rich foods and summer heat to holiday decorations and visitors coming and going, Christmas can be overwhelming and sometimes even dangerous for our furry companions. Here are some tips to help keep your pets safe during the festivities.
• Beware of festive foods
Many traditional Christmas foods are unsafe for animals. Chocolate, ham and fatty meats, cooked homes, grapes, raisins, onions, and alcohol can all cause serious illness. Even a small amount of Christmas pudding or mince pie can be toxic to dogs. Instead, vets recommend sticking to pet-safe treats and maintaining normal feeding routines.
• Decorations and gift hazards
access to shade and fresh water, avoid exercising dogs during the hottest part of the day, and never leave animals in parked cars, even briefly. If travelling, plan ahead by checking pet-friendly accomodation, packing familiar bedding and toys for your pet, and ensuring vaccinations, microchips and ID tags are up to date.
Tinsel, ribbons, ornaments and wrapping materials may look tempting to pets but they can cause choking or intestinal blockages if swallowed. Keep decorations out of reach, secure your tree, and dispose of ribbons and wrapping paper promptly once gifts are opened. Electrical cords for lights and inflatables should also be positioned safety away from a curious chewer.
• Heat and holiday travel
With temperatures soaring over summer, heat stress remains a significant concern for pet owners. Ensure that your four-legged friends always have
• Managing noise and visitors Christmas gatherings can be overwhelming for pets who are sensitive to noise or unfamiliar people. Create a quiet, secure retreat inside the home where animals can rest undisturbed. Let guests know if your pet is shy or anxious, and supervise young children to prevent accidental bites or stress.
• Know when to seek help
If your pet shows signs of distress, vomiting, unsteady movement or ingestion of something unsafe, contact a vet immediately. Many clinics have modified hours over the holidays, so it's worth noting your nearest emergency veterinary service in advance.
FROM LEFT: Dr Asta Vinycomb with Toshie, Dr Rachel McClaren with Sarabi, Dr Ellie Duncan with Dottie, Dr Hannah Smith with Olive, Dr Tanika Drummond with Jasper, Dr Madison Carter with Maverick, Dr Lauren Caspersz with Moose, Dr Breanna Carr with Salty, Dr Ben Porter with Woody, Dr Mikayla Markham with Jemima Puddle-Duck, Dr Kerryn Agnew with Bruce Lee, Dr Frances Jenner with Scout, Dr Brett Davis with a prized dairy cow
169 Nixon St, Shepparton 5878 1144 Book
Free toolkit to navigate money and mental wellbeing A Hot and Cold Christmas
FESTIVE spirit is shining bright on Benalla Road this year, with The Hot and Cold Shop drawing plenty of attention for its dazzling Christmas light display. The local business has transformed its showroom frontage into a festive wonderland, complete with sparkling reindeer, twinkling trees, candy canes and a glowing “Merry Christmas” sign that can be spotted from down the road.
Each evening at 8.30pm, the display flickers to life, delighting families who have been stopping by to admire the lights and snap photos.
Whether you’re driving past on your way home or taking the kids
for an evening look at neighbourhood lights, The Hot and Cold Shop’s display is well worth a stop and serves as a vibrant reminder that the magic of Christmas is alive and well in Shepparton.
AS the festive season approaches, financial pressures are taking a heavy toll on Australians’ mental health. Nearly half of respondents to Beyond Blue’s biennial Mental Health and Wellbeing Check reported financial stress as their primary cause of distress (nearly 46 per cent of all respondents)—a difficult situation mirrored by the National Debt Helpline, which received almost 170,000 calls and chats in the 12 months to the end of October.
In response, the not-for-profit mental health organisation, together with Financial Counselling Australia, has launched a free Money and Mental Health Toolkit.
Offering practical guidance on budgeting, managing emotions, communicating with banks or utility providers and accessing support, the toolkit provides timely assistance to help people navigate the two-way relationship between money and wellbeing, so that the holidays, while challenging, can also be a season of resilience, planning and self-care.
You can find the link to Beyond Blues Financial Toolkit here: https://resources.beyondblue.org.au/
FEELING FESTIVE... Christmas spirit has hit huge at the Hot and Cold Shop. Each night the lights turn on at 8.30pm, drawing visitors and spreading festive cheer. Photos: Emma Harrop
The spirit of Christmas is in community carolling
THE Greater Shepparton community is invited to start the festive season with a magical, joy-filled evening at Mooroopna Carols in the Park. The free event will be held on Saturday, December 13, 2025, at John Gray Oval, Mooroopna Recreation Reserve (162 McLennan Street), from 6:30 pm to 9:30 pm. Attendees can enjoy a night of Christmas music, cheer and community spirit.
Bring your picnic blankets, gather with loved ones under the evening sky and soak up lively performances from amazing local artists. Don’t miss the highlight of the night, a very special visit from Santa Claus.
This is a wonderful opportunity for the community to come together, celebrate the season and recognise the valuable work of the Kiwanis
Club. The event will feature BBQ and drinks, coffee, battery candles, which can all be purchased, and fun activities for the whole family, including a jumping castle. There will also be Activities in the Park in the afternoon leading up to the carols.
Local favourites such as Mr Sheppy will join the food vans, while Saint Alban’s Anglican Church will offer
opportunities to be photographed in a nativity scene and enjoy camel rides. Best of all, the event is free, and everyone is welcome.
Mooroopna Carols in the Park is proudly presented by the Kiwanis Club of Mooroopna, which has brought the event to the community for nearly 40 years. Always ready to welcome new and eager members, the club supports children and families through hospital fundraising, school programs such as Terrific Kids, and community projects that help keep Mooroopna strong and connected.
COMMUNITY CAROLLING AT ITS BEST... Mooroopna Carols in the Park is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the season with family, friends and the broader community. Kicking off at 6.30pm on December 13 at John Gray Oval, Mooroopna Recreation Reserve, there will be plenty of fun, entertainment and good food on-hand and, of course there will be a special visit from Santa. Photo: Supplied
A million reasons to shop local this Christmas
GIFTS THAT MATTER… Supporting local businesses is the gift that keeps on giving. This Christmas, give our community a boost by choosing to shop local. Pictured is one of Kyabram’s stunning festive shop displays. Photo: Stephen Mullins.
THE old adage, ‘Use it or lose it’, rings true for many things, but when it comes to supporting small businesses and local enterprises, nothing could be more important.
With cost of living still one of the biggest concerns for households and more small businesses closing their doors, Christmas is the perfect time to spread festive cheer and back local businesses.
Shopping locally doesn’t just help keep small businesses afloat, it creates jobs, future-proofs small enterprises, and allows them to share their prosperity by sponsoring local clubs and charities and supporting fundraisers and other local ventures. It’s a true win-win!
According to the 2021 Census, Greater Shepparton has around 29,435 residents aged between 20 and 54. If every person in that age bracket spent just $60 locally, the economic impact would exceed $1.7M, directly
benefitting local communities.
If just half that group spent $20 on Kris Kringle gifts at local stores, the flow-on effect would add nearly $300,000 to the local economy!
So, before you click ‘buy now’ on cheaper online products, consider the bigger picture: every dollar spent locally strengthens our local community and helps ensure these businesses thrive for years to come.
This Christmas, make a difference. Shop local, support your community, and keep the spirit of giving alive where it matters most. Visit your local stores or makers today.
Where the elves play
ELF on the Shelf season has arrived, and local families have captured the magic. Enjoy this collection of delightfully sneaky, funny and festive elf moments shared by our community. If you have a cheeky Elf on the Shelf at home, we'd love to see what its been up to. Snap a pic and send it to The Shepparton Adviser on social media or email photos to editorial@sheppartonadviser.com.au.
CHEERFUL SEASON... The elves also came along to see Oliver (4) and Noah (8). Photo: Supplied
SEASON OF GIVING... Pictured are Hudson (4) and Archer (2) reading Christmas books. Photo: Supplied
FESTIVE TIME... Laura Kosanke’s elf announces it is back. Photo: Supplied