Our Goulburn Valley 2019

132 PAGES OF SUCCESS IN THE GOULBURN VALLEY

BUSINESS DIRECTORY INSIDE

August/September 2019

Building a prosperous region

together

Proudly brought to you by the

Our Goulburn Valley

132 Pages of success in the Goulburn Valley Local Visionary Welcome to

Our Goulburn Valley - Building a prosperous region together A special magazine highlighting many success stories in our great Goulburn Valley region.

Contents 4 4

Success in the region is contagious Year on year growth for the Goulburn Valley 5 A message from the Prime Minister 5 City of Greater Shepparton population is set to grow 22 percent by 2036 8 Shepparton consolidates as a highly efficient producer of goods and services, by David McKenzie 8 $100s of millions in development pipeline for Shepparton region 9 Copulos family to celebrate special milestone 9 An eye on improving infrastructure,

by Deputy Prime Minister, Michael McCormack 10 My vision for Greater Shepparton,

by Fiona Smolenaars 11 The Adviser approaches 50 million copies 14 Messages from Sam Birrell and Peter Harriott.

15 – 30 Primary Industries & Consumer Goods 15 16 16 18 20 22 24 24 26 26 28 30 30

A message from Damian Drum MP An amazing workforce Employment up by four percent in the Goulburn Valley Taking control of water over the phone Going out of their way to find new leads Free trade agreement to benefit local business SPC Factory Sales: full of surprises!

Depot growth a priority for local pallet business Aiming at the peak of fruit perfection The Gross Regional Product for the Goulburn Valley Pental – not just an Australian manufacturer, also a global brands distribution specialist They would make a pear blush Tough times never last, tough people do

31 – 42 Engineering & Manufacturing 31 A message from Adam Furphy 32 Local steel business boost from food processing 34 Delivering 60 years of expertise 36 3D printing – the future for engineering business 38 Nailing team culture key to pallet business 38 Business as strong as concrete continues to grow 40 Investing in cutting edge technology 40 Old firm expanding with new direction 42 Asia on the radar for local packaging business 42 Taking engineering to the next level

43 – 70 Infrastructure, Construction & Development 43 A message from Victorian Premier, Daniel Andrews MP 44 History stands property firm in good stead 45 Improving health and wellbeing for the entire community 48 A man and his machines moving mountains 50 Local developer looks to expand 52 Design style and engineered energy efficiency 54 Tackling construction management with new technology 58 Expansion on track to be completed by the end of 2020 60 A buoyant market supports strong growth with real estate agent 62 Crane company expands as the Goulburn Valley expands 64 State of the art manufacture of steel building products 65 Sourcing new technology for the construction sector 68 Supporting over 1000 youth to further education and employment

69 Consulting firm takes to the sky for survey work 70 Property an attractive investment in Shepparton

71 – 84 Transport 71 A message from Suzanna Sheed MP 72 Accounting firm keeps on trucking 74 Bobcat profile to lift in the Goulburn Valley 76 Keeping ahead of trucking technology 78 Diversifying allows trucking company to grow 80 Recycle firm diverts 200,000 tonnes from landfill 80 Free trade agreement strengthens local business 82 Racing towards an exciting future for the region

85 – 90 Education & the Arts 85 A message from Jamie Lea 86 Research expansion to help employment 86 Indigenous centre looks to empower a national voice in policy development 88 Prioritising culture, education and wellbeing 88 New museum set to expand horizons 90 Setting the standard in agricultural education

91 – 102 Hall of Fame 91 92 94 96 96 97

A message from Shepparton Chamber of Commerce and Industry president, John Anderson 50 years of beautiful jewellery Reminiscing on a great rollercoaster adventure Change is the driver for hotel business Tourism driving future prosperity Strong family ties at local jewellery store

3

Brought to you by

publishing team.

98 A taste of 45 wineries in the Valley 99 Shepparton’s Hall of Fame of Business 100 Business Awards Hall of Fame recipients 102 Snapshots of Greater Shepparton’s past

103 – 132 Services 103 A message from Wendy Lovell MP 104 Local developer has his ear to the ground 104 Modern, multi-million dollar law courts 105 Growing a larger solar footprint 106 Local print company embraces digital revolution 107 Waste management company makes safety a priority 110 Business centre makes the most of advance in technology 112 Diversification as a point of difference 114 Over $375,000 raised for the community 116 Award-winning rural-based finance broker eight years running 118 Great customer service is key to growth 120 Connecting the Goulburn Valley with the world 122 Spare parts firm thrives in the Goulburn Valley 123 Technology is driving efficiency and growth in accounting firm 124 World’s most ethical company for eight years running 125 (cont.) Success in the region is contagious 126 (cont.) $100s of millions in development pipeline for Shepparton region 127 Major Events 2019/2020 Calendar 128 The Goulburn Valley’s important role towards clean, renewable energy 128 Delivering clean and renewable energy 128 Setting our sights on a powerful future 129 Business Directory 130 The world’s number one pest to horticulture is Fruit Fly

On the cover WELCOME to the 2019 -2020 special edition of Our Goulburn Valley…Building a Prosperous Region Together.

I take this opportunity to acknowledge the dedication, hard work and excellent teamwork of The Adviser publishing team.

Advertising led by Melanie Spencer.

Editorial led by Ash Beks.

Photography led by Katelyn Morse.

Production led by Mathieu Ryan.

Administration led by Janet Hodges.

Distribution led by Melissa Burgess.

General Manager: Will Adams.

Managing Editor: Geoff Adams.

Other important contributors are; Steph Boyle, Ryan Bathman and Cameron Bathman – Graphic Design, Danielle Cox and Steve Hutcheson – Editorial, Sharelle Jarvis –

photography and Bronwen Timothee, Geoff Vallance and Stacey Dalziel - Sales.

Literally 100s of faces from around the Goulburn Valley are in our fifth edition of Our Goulburn Valley.

The front cover features important cogs in the successful operations of the Goulburn Valley.

Included are: Beth Smith, The Prentice

family, Amanda Firebrace, Altaya Atkinson, Chris and George Davkovski, Beryl O’Connor, Mark Hooper, Maggie Armstrong, Peter Mintern, Kate Clarke, Peter Johnson, Glenn Boyd, Aaron Poole and Peter Thompson.

And a familiar site around the region is the massive Quicklift crane.

Geoff Adams.

219-225 Wyndham Street, Shepparton T 5832 8900 F 5832 8920 www.sheppadviser.com.au The Shepparton Adviser - Our Goulburn Valley Building a prosperous region together - August/September 2019

4

Our Goulburn Valley An Introduction

Success in the region is contagious Shepparton and the wider Goulburn Valley continues to thrive across a large number of business sectors, creating major spin-offs for hundreds of businesses with large numbers of employees, as well as the one-person tradie.

T

he foundations are being laid for a bright future.

However, the retail sector continues to experience strong headwinds - not exclusive to Shepparton of course - as many advanced economies across the globe are also feeling the heat.

Combining the lowest interest rates on record (2.5 percent) with the Federal Government’s recent successful passing of the $158 billion tax cuts, these major economic levers are likely to boost the retail sector.

There are large numbers of local businesses that continue to do well, adapting to an ever-changing business environment. One of the major challenges to business no matter what sector, is the fast pace of change. Embracing and adapting to change are among the keys to business success.

The Shepparton region is the second fastest growing region for Gross Domestic Product in the state.

Our Goulburn Valley.…Building a Prosperous Region Together magazine caught up with many businesses and organisations, when compiling our 20192020 edition, that continue to thrive in our region. These enterprises and the people who run them are just some of the success stories and are in no particular order. Enjoy this special 132-page edition.

The vision of Steeline Roofing, a business founded in 1988 by brothers Trevor and Gavin Jones, is a good example of a business that continues to expand in Shepparton. Manager of Steeline Roofing Shepparton, Travis Ryan, tells Our Goulburn Valley magazine that they have put on seven new apprentices, taking their local team to 21 and are looking to add another two apprentices by the end of year via GOTAFE. Quicklift is a local success story. Run by husband and wife team Jarrod and Karli Sutherland, the business recently relocated from Wheeler Street to a brand new site at Future Court off Old Dookie Road. The line-up of cranes at their new location is a sight to behold. The business with two outlets at Shepparton and Benalla employs up to 60 people at both sites. Quicklift cranes can be seen at the massive precast concrete business north of Benalla, which is supplying the Westgate Tunnel project.

The McHugh brothers, Scott and Jason have built a strong home building business, Cavalier Homes, right here in the Goulburn Valley. Their passion for the industry is contagious. The foundations have been laid for the business to be taken Australia-wide. They’re also in New Zealand. Cavalier Homes have exceeded the 500 homes mark, a remarkable achievement since 2002.

It is encouraging to see local businesses continue to

expand. Aussie Storage Systems recently relocated from their McHarry Place premises to a higher profile site on the corner of Old Dookie Road and Drummond Road.

The business, run by Barry Johnson specialises in storage systems, office furniture, interior upgrades, petitions, shop fittings and displays.

Shepparton’s Sounds Around home entertainment business now located on Melbourne Road, Shepparton continues to break new ground.

Operated by Nathan Tranter and Nick Durston, the business specialises in custom built TV and digitally motorised mounts and brackets. Nathan’s high tech design work takes them to Melbourne and into NSW. I K Caldwell’s David Jobling is optimistic about the Goulburn Valley’s future. On the production of fruit and in particular pears, David says the outlook is significantly better compared to last year.

“Exports to China markets have opened up which in turn keeps the prices healthy,” says David. “It is also encouraging to see new industrial land being developed with major works along Doyles Road.”

Chris Mepham of Chris Smith & Associates is also positive about the future of the Goulburn Valley. The civil engineering, land surveying and urban regional planning and project management business has seen strong growth throughout northern Victoria. They recently opened an office in Echuca and also have an office in Kilmore. The firm has been behind the highly successful Kialla Lakes Estate development, developed by Kavant Nominees. A major boost to the Kialla Lakes’ development in the last year has been the opening of St Anne’s College.

Brendan O’Connor of O’Connors on Numurkah Road, Shepparton, detects a change in the region’s farming dynamics. With the region being strong in dairy, horticulture, cropping and broadacre farming, he detects a shift to more broadacre farming. “It’s all about water and the costs associated with it. Our dairies in the region are becoming bigger and there’s a trend to larger operations such as almond crops,” Brendan told Our Goulburn Valley magazine. O’Connors continue to expand across the country, with the acquisition of four more agricultural machinery businesses taking their holding to 10 across the nation.

Locals continue to see a fleet of John Holland vehicles around the region with their work on the Connections Project. The John Holland Group is contracted to upgrade the Goulburn Murray Water system throughout northern Victoria. Some 500 employees are working on the project throughout the irrigation district. John Holland’s project manager, Peter Scheiwe says that 60 percent of the work

The Shepparton region is the second fastest growing region for Gross Domestic Product in the state.

has been completed. Peter also touches on the massive precast concrete work they are involved in with LS Precast at Benalla. “It’s the biggest precast project in Australia, all part of the Westgate Tunnel and Northeast Rail upgrade, including the 200 kilometre Wodonga rail bypass,” says Peter.

Big news on the insurance broking business front is the recent acquisition of Griffiths Goodall Insurance Brokers (GGIB) for $48 million. The successful local business does approximately 70 percent of its work outside Shepparton, but still calls Shepparton home. The business has been taken over by PSC Insurance Group Limited and will continue to be run by Ben Goodall, John Griffiths and their team of 30 staff. Ben says he is very excited about the future of the company and looks forward to the team continuing ‘business as usual’.

The University of Melbourne continues to have a large influence upon the region with the Department of Rural Health Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry & Health Services, as well as Dookie’s University of Melbourne Faculty of Veterinary & Agricultural Services headed up by Roslynne Gall, director of Dookie Campus and Andrew Gooley, service manager operations.

Dookie’s 32 hectare campus with 2,440 hectares of farming land is thriving, with up to 150 students at various times of the year on site for intensive subjects. Dookie Agricultural College, as it was known for generations, was founded on grain growing and crop research. Over the years thousands of students have passed through its doors from across the nation.

Continuing with education, the profile of Indigenous organisations such as Kaiela Institute, Rumbalara Football & Netball Club run by Paul Briggs, and ASHE - Academy of Sport Health & Education run by Leonie Dwyer, has lifted enormously in recent years. The organisations have proved a huge success in their fields of expertise. Leonie says the core focus of ASHE is education of Aboriginal youth. “Their wellbeing and culture is our number one priority. Thirteen years ago we had six male students and today we have 100 students, of which 70 percent are female,” Leonie tells Our Goulburn Valley magazine. “Our students have come from other secondary schools, and some weren’t in the education system at all, so were not engaged. Education is the way forward for our Indigenous youth, it’s also a story of self determination,” Leonie adds. ASHE also works with La Trobe University and GO TAFE for placements.

Another significant supporter of ASHE, Kaiela Institute and Rumbalara Aboriginal Co-operative is the University of Melbourne. Plans are well underway for the major Munarra Centre for Regional Excellence, a $54 million project to be constructed near Rumbalara Football Netball Club. A major driving force behind the project for Indigenous sport is Paul Briggs. His dream is for Munarra to be a major cultural hub that brings together Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal communities through sport, culture and education.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 125

Year on year growth for the Goulburn Valley In just 12 months, 756 additional people have decided to make the move to the Goulburn Valley and call our region home. The latest data reports show that 144,043 people now permanently reside in the Goulburn Valley.

City of Greater Shepparton

Moira Shire

Shire of Campaspe

Strathbogie Shire

66,007 29,799 37,592 10,645 POPULATION

POPULATION

POPULATION

POPULATION

The official resident population of the City of Greater Shepparton, as estimated at the end of the 2017-2018 financial year was reported at 66,007, an increase of 453 residents since the end of the previous reporting period which noted a total populous of 65,554.

The Moira Shire reports a population of 29,799, an increase of 147 on the previous year’s total number of residents, which came in at 29,652.

Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) reported the population of the Shire Of Campaspe at 37,592 at the end of the 2017-2018 financial year.

This number saw a small decrease of five residents, down from the previous year’s total of 37,597.

At the southern end of the greater Goulburn Valley region, the latest records state the Strathbogie Shire population has risen to 10,645, this number is up by 161 new residents on the previous year, in which a total number of 10,484 residents were recorded.

August/September 2019 - Our Goulburn Valley Building a prosperous region together - The Shepparton Adviser

Our Goulburn Valley An Introduction

PRIME MINISTER

MESSAGE FROM THE PRIME

MINISTER

GOULBURN VALLEY MAGAZIN E BUILDING A PROSPEROUS REG ION TOGETHER The Goulburn Valley is a great part

of Australia.

This magazine celebrates the people, businesses and communities who are having a go and building a strong vibrant local econ omy.

From Seymour to Shepparton and up to Echuca, the people of the Goulbur n Valley are the quiet Australians I often speak abou t.

The men and women of these commun ities have decent, honest aspirations: get a job, start a business, work hard, meet someone amazing, save for a home or retireme nt, and deal with whatever challenges come their way.

The best way to support these aspiratio ns is by building a strong economy – nationally and locally. A strong economy alwa ys starts with jobs.

The Government is delivering on our economic plan. Our plan is providin g tax relief for families and small businesses; $10 0 billion in infrastructure investme nts; exports agreements for new markets; record investments in the services that Aus tralians rely on; and support for regional communities facing drought.

Through the Goulburn Valley Regiona l Jobs and Investment Package we are investing $20 million towards projects that will help to diversify the local economy , stimulate economic growth and deliver more jobs for the region.

My government believes in the futu re of the Goulburn Valley, and I’m confident this spectacular valley will go from stren gth-to-strength in the years ahead.

The Hon Scott Morrison MP Prime Minister of Australia 9 August 2019

5

City of Greater Shepparton population is set to grow 22 percent by 2036 S hepparton is growing and changing; that’s a fact. If you drive around town, you’ll notice a flurry of construction underway and some exciting projects in the pipeline.

The recent Building Better Regional Cities program has helped financially facilitate a lot of the growth in regional centres, with an enormous migration shift occurring with people moving out of capital cities toward rural areas.

According to forecast statistics established by forecast.id, The City of Greater Shepparton is set to experience a 22.5 percent increase in population by 2036.

Expectedly, the total number of dwellings is set to rise too, with a predicted average of 376 dwellings per annum to 34,748 in 2036. That’s an average of just over one new dwelling per day.

The largest percentage of forecast growth in residential development is set to occur in Shepparton North East, with that area of land expected to see a 94.8 percent increase in residential development by 2036.

Next on the list is Kialla, with a projected increase of 76.7 percent, followed by Shepparton South East (56 percent), Shepparton Urban Centre (35.3 percent), Tatura (26.2 percent) and Mooroopna (22.9 percent).

Forecast residential development, 2016 to 2036 City of Greater Shepparton (Total)7,516 Shepparton Urban Centre - 5,665 Kialla Urban - 1,641 Shepparton North East - 1,641 Shepparton South East - 1,471 Mooroopna - 864 Tatura - 540

The Shepparton Adviser - Our Goulburn Valley Building a prosperous region together - August/September 2019

8

Our Goulburn Valley An Introduction

Shepparton consolidates as a highly efficient producer of goods and services

By David McKenzie, director, GoulburnMurray Water.

It is great to see our regional economy performing well, having consolidated after a series of ongoing challenges through the 2000s.

Recent data shows that the Goulburn region has a 5 year average growth rate of 2.8 percent, only behind the Geelong and Ballarat regions of Victoria. The statewide regional average is 2.3 percent. We have a higher labour force participation rate than the state average, and an unemployment rate of less than 5.5 percent, in line with the regional average. However, our rate of job growth is well under the regional average, and we have some stubbornly high cohorts of long-term unemployment.

What does all this mean? It shows the Shepparton

region is consolidating its position as a highly efficient producer of goods and services, still dependent on a strong farming sector, but increasingly diversified from direct agriculture. It also shows that we must take care to share the benefits of a strong economy, and to give full access to these growing opportunities to all our citizens.

We are producing more, with fewer inputs all the time. These inputs include water on our farms, as well as labour in our businesses. Our economic growth sectors are becoming more skill and capital intensive.

Employment in these areas is tipped to continue to decline in relative terms, but become more high value. In agriculture, less farming businesses continue to produce more products each year. While dairy continues to face real challenges, horticulture is enjoying significant growth, and cropping and grazing are strong. Overall, agricultural land values are continuing to rise.

Our professional services and technical sector is growing rapidly, in terms of value of output, as well as number of firms. The health care and social assistance sector is showing similar growth. There is more growth to come from both these sectors, as the GV Health development lands, and as Shepparton continues to

grow as a regional justice centre, driven by the state-ofthe-art courthouse facilities. Engineering and finance are also strong growth sectors.

These are all signs that the Shepparton economy is rapidly evolving. Different sectors are growing or receding in importance more quickly than ever, but the overall outcome is positive. The Goulburn Valley traditionally led the way in regional Victoria in many areas, and it is rising again.

Shepparton has a growing reputation as a highly organised community, with significant citizenled initiatives such as the Committee for Greater Shepparton, and the Lighthouse Project, driving real change and positive momentum in new ways that is making the rest of the state take notice.

I can anticipate the time when the passenger rail investment now underway is complete, when the SAM is finished, when the GV Health redevelopment is done, and when the dairy sector stabilises. When we align our educational outcomes with the growth trajectory of the region, and we are a truly inclusive community, I am sure the Goulburn Valley, with Shepparton at its heart, will realise its full new potential as a prosperous, vibrant and dynamic region.

$100s of millions in development pipeline for Shepparton region - Dozens of projects lay foundations for a bright future The times they are a-changing….

For generations Shepparton and the wider Goulburn Valley has been built on strong foundations, utilising good soil, good growing conditions and a world class irrigation system. This continues today with major horticulture, fruit and agriculture operations. However we are witnessing a time of dynamic change and that rate of change is accelerating.

Manufacturing is also becoming more skill and capital intensive. Agriculture and manufacturing employment is declining, but becoming more high value.

The dynamics of the region are switching to other opportunities that also come with great challenges. Nonagriculture related enterprises are springing up across the region with a major expansion in health care and social assistance as well as education and training related businesses.

The latest Greater Shepparton Lighthouse Project Economic Update, produced by Opteon Property Group, shows that of all the changes in employment over the last 10 years, the health sector has grown a staggering 31 percent.

The figures speak for themselves, with a large number of major health related projects underway in the Shepparton region.

At the top of the list is the GV Health Stage 1 major upgrade valued at $172 million, due to be completed in 2021. GV Health, already the region’s largest employer, will require approximately an additional 500 employees.

This in itself creates a challenge for not only GV Health, but also the health sector at large, as the region experiences a boom in employment in this sphere.

Staying with health for a moment, Shepparton is to get a $26 million Integrated Cancer Centre as part of the GV Health complex. It will be three to four times the size of the existing Peter Copulos Cancer & Wellness Centre. GenisisCare is also opening a world class, state-of-the-art $11 million radiation therapy treatment facility later this year and the new building is fast coming out of the ground on the corner of Corio and Edward Streets, Shepparton. $21 million has been pledged by the Commonwealth Government as part of GV Health’s master plan, for a Residential Mother and Baby Unit and Rushworth’s exciting new $10 million Waranga Health facility has just opened.

Big things are happening at Shepparton’s Freedom Foods with upwards of $100 million being invested

in additional capacity and specialty nutritional products. During the next 18 months UHT milk, casein, whey, and raw milk will be upwards of 400 million litres and will reach a total capacity of 500 million litres per annum. This is a boost for employment in the region with 80 new jobs. Freedom Foods is the largest ultrahigh temperature milk processing plant in the southern hemisphere.

A new frontier is being created in the solar energy space with a large number of solar farms to come on stream in the coming years. There are no less than 35 locations across the Goulburn and Murray Valleys and into southern NSW planned. It is sure to change the landscape of our region.

A major Doyles Road upgrade is underway with a service road currently being constructed and two roundabouts being widened. The works are expected to cost $20 million. The works are going well for a major business and industrial facility currently under construction, along with a number of businesses setting up along the busy by-pass to the city. Civilmart and Icon Septech have new premises along the strip and Powercor is relocating to a $10 million site there, as will other businesses in the coming years.

An exciting new industrial land development is close to completion on New Dookie Road. The 12 acre site has attracted good attention, according to selling agent Rocky Gagliardi, of Gagliardi Scott Real Estate. Three large blocks of 6000m2, 5000m2 and 2000m2 have already been sold. Rocky says he has experienced the best commercial, industrial and residential sales ever. Land is relatively cheap and commercial property is proving popular among not only local but out-of-town investors.

“Investors can’t believe the returns,” says Rocky.

Gagliardi Scott Real Estate is currently involved in 13 subdivisions in the Shepparton region.

Late last year Watters Electrical relocated their operations from Drummond Road to New Dookie Road, next to where the new industrial estate is located.

Mooroopna will be the home of the redeveloped $20 million Rodney Park Village and it’s the beginning of a new chapter in the history of Shepparton Villages’ master plan.

Construction on the exciting $47 million Shepparton Art Museum (SAM) on the banks of Victoria Park Lake has begun in earnest, with foundation

August/September 2019 - Our Goulburn Valley Building a prosperous region together - The Shepparton Adviser

and excavation work well underway by Kane Construction. The new SAM will be the home of a stunning Indigenous collection of paintings bequeathed

by Carrillo Gantner AO, who is also chair of the Sidney Myer Fund. A world-class ceramics collection will also be on permanent show along with many high profile rolling exhibitions. The big thinking and, sometimes, controversial five-storey project will prove a huge boost to tourism in our region for many years to come. Built in stages, it is due to be completed in late 2020.

Council continues to beautify the lake surrounds, with the latest work carried out at the northern end. New toilet and changing room facilities have also been completed at the lake.

Shepparton’s own Pental, manufacturer of leading Australian brands such as White King, Huggie, Jiffy, Little Lucifer, Martha’s, Pears, Softly, Country Life and Velvet Soaps continues to invest in Shepparton with a new $1 million manufacturing line. The company, headed by Charlie McLeish, relocated its manufacturing plant to Shepparton from Port Melbourne several years ago. Pental has been a long time supporter of the Shepparton Chamber of Commerce & Industry’s Business Awards. The awards celebrate 25 years of success in 2020. At the 2018 Awards, Pental announced they were the new Duracell distributors Australia-wide, all from Shepparton.

Dowell Windows has opened its 8,500m2 Shepparton premises (formerly 5,500m2) in the old Bunnings building on Benalla Road. Dowell first opened its doors in Shepparton in 1970 in a small warehouse in Rowe Street. The multi-million dollar relocation and upgrade means huge efficiencies and growth for the 100-employee business. Dowell CEO, Jeff Rotin, says they have 21 locations around Australia, including nine major manufacturing plants. Dowell Shepparton has long been an iconic part of the business.

Increased business activity continues on Benalla Road with the recent launch of the Liberty Shepparton Service Station 24-hour operation. The site, which has been in the Sofra family since the 1970s, has been developed for Liberty Fuel by Terry Sofra. The new business has been a big success since opening in April. Work has also started at the old Caltex Service Station site on the corner of Wyndham and Vaughan Streets.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 126

Our Goulburn Valley An Introduction

9

An eye on improving infrastructure

by Michael McCormack, Deputy Prime Minister The age of infrastructure is upon us.

I am proud that the Federal Liberal and Nationals Government is investing a record $100 billion in infrastructure over the next 10 years – a rolling infrastructure plan that will help manage our growing population, meet our national freight challenge and get Australians home sooner and safer.

Our Government is providing practical help to many through the Goulburn Valley Regional Jobs and Investment Package.

We have invested $2.5 million into the Project Horizon Dairy Manufacturing Facility in Girgarre, $1 million to the Eco-Friendly Machinery Maintenance and Manufacturing Facility in Burramine

and $2.5 million towards the Museum of Vehicle Transport Evolution (MOVE) in Kialla.

With an eye to improving infrastructure, we are investing $8 million towards a business case to explore better rail connections between Melbourne and Greater Shepparton and, recently, Federal Member for Nicholls Damian Drum and I announced $208 million to deliver Stage 1 of the Goulburn Valley Highway Shepparton Bypass. At the other end of the scale, we also announced $145,000 to assist with running the UCI 2020 BMX Supercross World Cup early next year.

I am proud of our Government’s practical on-theground approach to growing our regions.

Our Government is providing practical help to many through the Goulburn Valley Regional Jobs and Investment Package.

Copulos family to celebrate special milestone Local businessman, Peter Copulos, has spent more than 60 years in business, principally property development and investment, fast food, retail, hospitality, manufacturing, mining, global investments, fund management and public companies.

As founder of the Copulos Group, Peter built the business from an initial single property acquired with borrowed funds. Peter then led the group through its expansion during the 1960s and to late 2000.

He has served as a director of several public and private companies, including Sundowner Motor Inns Limited and QSR Limited. Peter’s style has always been to lead by example and to ‘roll the sleeves up’ when necessary. His passion for entrepreneurship and tireless work ethic has been instrumental in building the Copulos Group into what it is today.

Business is one thing, however Peter’s family is of vital importance to him as well. Peter and his wife Maria have three children, Stephen, Susie and Cathy, nine grandchildren and 18 great grandchildren.

Peter today is involved mainly in special projects and philanthropy, while his son Stephen and some of the grandchildren are responsible for running the businesses.

Significantly, Peter and his family have always called Shepparton home.

Another major Copulos milestone to celebrate later this year

is the 10th anniversary of Riverside Plaza on Melbourne Road, South Shepparton.

The major retail complex includes 27 businesses including major tenants Coles and Harvey Norman. Riverside Plaza was one of many dreams that came true for Peter Copulos, all from humble migrant beginnings in the 1940s right here in the Goulburn Valley.

He and his wife Maria take an active interest in community projects, by forming a large Foundation, and supporting many organisations, Peter speaks passionately about a host of organisations he believes in. Among the major projects he has supported over the years in the health field in particular, is the Epworth Foundation, The Peter Copulos Cancer & Wellness Centre as part of GV Health, National Institute of Integrative Medicine (NIIM), Prostate Cancer, Pink Ribbon, as well as numerous other charities.

As a local identity, he has done extraordinarily well in so many ways, as Peter’s first job, apart from working on the family orchard, was as a carpenter.

The team at Our Goulburn Valley magazine consider the Copulos family as an iconic family to the Shepparton region, worthy of recognition in this, our fifth edition of Our Goulburn Valley magazine.

LOCAL BUSINESSMAN AND ENTREPRENEUR… Founder of the Copulos Group, Peter Copulos has spent more than 60 years in business and has a tireless work ethic. Photo: Supplied.

MOOOVING VIEWS… A view of Shepparton from Monash Park, flying above the iconic Moooving Art cows. Photo: Katelyn Morse.

10

33%

3% 22%

Our Goulburn Valley An Introduction

42%

Total manufacturing economic output for the Goulburn Valley: $4.985B Greater Shepparton: $2.113B Moira Shire: $1.090B Strathbogie Shire: $139M Campaspe Shire: $1.643B

My vision for Greater Shepparton

By Shepparton Festival chair, Fiona Smolenaars y dream for Greater Shepparton is to be a prosperous place to live and bring up our families. We have a deeply connected community with strong community leadership and a shared community vision to support the prosperity, a thriving regional economy and we celebrate our diverse community and actively engage with arts and culture, sport and the outdoors to provide life balance and universal liveability.

My vision for the region is that: • We have kids who are mentally and physically ready for school, they are positively engaged in their education and aspire to be valuable members of our community. Parents feel supported to nurture their children to be the best they can be.

• Our kids understand the complex regional business/economic environment to understand career prospects. A community that is proud to celebrate all that is good about where we live and what it offers for work and play.

• We’ve acted on climate change conundrums and deeply engaged with the youth who will be most impacted. We empower them to drive change.

• Kids are inspired to build skills and attitudes to take on future jobs.

We have an education system that meets their needs and encourages an excitement about learning.

• And, we utilise technology and innovation for business, transport and education initiatives. Technology also has the potential to offer greater flexibility to people living regionally, enabling them to enjoy the best of living in a regional city.

As a community we need to encourage curiosity in our kids and

M

August/September 2019 - Our Goulburn Valley Building a prosperous region together - The Shepparton Adviser

CREATIVE AND CONNECTED COMMUNITY… Shepparton Festival chair, Fiona Smolenaars is encouraging curiosity in our kids to create an environment of robust discussion to challenge the status quo. Photo: Sharelle Jarvis.

create an environment of robust discussion and ability to challenge the status quo. We need to create a culture of engaging with all members of our community – those with technical expertise, strategic initiatives, entrepreneurialism and lived experience to tackle the complex world and wicked problems that can’t be solved by one cohort within the community. And be backed by government to create the foundations for success – abundantly resourced and supported.

Our Goulburn Valley An Introduction

The Adviser approaches 50 million copies How time flies when you’re having fun.

Celebrating 35 years of publishing this month, The Adviser’s 1,470th edition rolled off the presses this week and hit the huge milestone of approximately 50 million copies of which 98 percent have been letterbox delivered directly into the household free of charge.

Another major milestone is the production of this, our 5th edition of Our Goulburn Valley magazine…which promotes many of the great things going on in the Shepparton region.

“It’s all about Building a Prosperous Region… together,” The Adviser managing editor, Geoff Adams says.

The latest edition of Our Goulburn Valley magazine features a host of guest writers and special messages from dignitaries throughout the 132 page edition.

Our Goulburn Valley magazine features: Primary Industries & Consumer Goods, Engineering & Manufacturing, Infrastructure, Construction & Development, Transport, Services, Education & the Arts New to Our Goulburn Valley magazine this year is a Hall of Fame section, which takes a look at several of Shepparton’s successful businesses who have stood the test of time trading 25 years and more.

There are so many great stories to tell, and the Our Goulburn Valley publishing team is proud to bring you many of these success stories in this specially compiled collector’s edition.

The editorial team thinks they’ve only scratched the surface.

Although all media is experiencing big change across

FIVE YEARS OF OUR GOULBURN VALLEY MAGAZINE… The Adviser managing editor, Geoff Adams fanning out some of the previous editions of Our Goulburn Valley magazine, with this edition you’re reading the fifth. Photo: Katelyn Morse.

the nation, and newspapers are no exception, there is still a calling for the local paper, particularly free community newspapers such as The Adviser.

Regional free newspapers continue to have a bright future in a changing market.

Sam Birrell, Committee for Greater Shepparton, CEO

My guess is that if you ask people from Melbourne their perception of Shepparton, they would fall back to all the tired old regional city stereotypes – crime, drugs, low growth, everyone doing it tough.

But if you look at data trends, and generally what is actually happening around the city, a different picture emerges. Greater Shepparton’s Gross Regional Product (a measure of the region’s economic activity)

11

Peter Harriott,

Greater Shepparton City Council, CEO Greater Shepparton is in a transformational phase. A new courthouse, GV Health Stage 1 redevelopment, construction of the new Shepparton Art Museum and funding committed for Stage 1 of the Bypass and V/Locity trains for improved connectivity to Melbourne. All of these projects deliver on the proposed vision for a vibrant regional city, providing first class services for residents and businesses. The Victorian Planning Authority (VPA) in partnership with Greater Shepparton City Council is preparing the Shepparton and Mooroopna 2050: Regional City Growth Plan to guide the sustainable development of the SheppartonMooroopna area to the year 2050 and realise this vision for our region.

Greater Shepparton is diversifying also, with greater investment in hydroponics, new industry (including medicinal cannabis), the return of solar energy and significant growth in the health and education sectors.

The future vision for Greater Shepparton needs to be underpinned by a strong recognition of Aboriginal history, protection of the environment and an emphasis on a modern regional based education and research sector to allow our youth to fully develop and benefit from living and studying in regional Victoria.

has grown over 10 percent in the last three years. This is significantly higher than comparable regional centres on the eastern seaboard, and bettered only by Ballarat, which grew by 11.3 percent.

The building activity is significant. There are the big government investments like Shepparton Art Museum and GV Health Stage 1, but also many private commercial developments. The expansion of dairy processing has been remarkable. Everywhere you look there is a crane on the horizon.

Our farming sector would be booming if it were not for one major obstacle: the price of irrigation water. The solution to this depends

mostly on rainfall (something we cannot control) and government policy (something we are trying to influence in part). The future will see some agricultural transformation, something that is never easy but often unavoidable. The Goulburn Valley has always done it well.

All said, Greater Shepparton is experiencing a resurgence. The challenge is to fill the jobs being created, by making sure we attract people but also by educating our kids with the right skills. Everyone needs to be given the opportunity to use the economy for a fulfilling and meaningful life. That’s what it is there for.

14

Our Goulburn Valley An Introduction

Kim O’Keeffe,

Greater Shepparton City Council Mayor

GREATER Shepparton is bold, it is exciting and it is on the rise.

We have excellent facilities, investment and employment opportunities, as well as a relaxing lifestyle – but we aren’t stopping there.

In 2019, we have seen works begin on the new state-of-the-art Shepparton Art Museum, progress made on the proposed Goulburn Valley Highway Bypass and major steps taken towards revitalising our central business district.

All of which have ensured growth and opportunity for our region.

We are living up to our reputation as an innovative and proactive region, encouraging investment and strong visitation which leads to increased economic benefits.

We will continue to strive to highlight Greater Shepparton in the remainder of 2019 and into 2020.

There are plenty of great things happening, so please visit our website for more information.

Our businesses are our region According to the latest statistics, the total recorded number of registered business across all industry sectors in the Goulburn Valley area is 15,065.

Total number of registered businesses 15,065 Greater Shepparton 9,447 Moira Shire 3,128 Strathbogie Shire 1,424 Campaspe Shire 4,194

23%

8%

Ray Burton,

Amanda McClaren,

Strathbogie Shire Mayor The Strathbogie Shire is a vibrant and progressive rural municipality comprised of the townships of Avenel, Euroa, Longwood, Nagambie, Ruffy, Strathbogie and Violet Town and is renowned for its diverse communities, heritage architecture

and beautiful natural features.

The Strathbogie Shire has a strong agricultural economic base and a growing wine industry and tourism sector. It is centrally located in Victoria and is a highly desirable place to live for those seeking a rural lifestyle.

Just a 90 minute commute to both Melbourne and Albury, with two of Victoria’s significant rail lines (Melbourne to Brisbane and Melbourne to Shepparton) and two major freeways (Hume and Goulburn Valley) running through the region, its central location and ideal climate makes for great lifestyle and tourism opportunities.

Our vibrant communities and keen visitors are at the heart of the local economy and the prosperity of the region. Council continues to support local business and work with our communities to make Strathbogie a great place to live, work, play and invest.

52% 17%

Rob Priestly,

Campaspe Shire Council, Acting CEO

CAMPASPE Shire Council is located in north central Victoria – in the heart of one of the richest and most diverse agriculture and food processing regions. The agricultural, manufacturing and healthcare industries account for 40 percent of Campaspe‘s employed residents, with tourism closely following as a high driver of employment and visitation to the area.

A thriving community, with many opportunities for growth and prosperity, Campaspe encompasses a total land area of more than 4500 square kilometres and 37,000 plus residents. Population is expected to grow to almost 43,000 by 2036.

Added to this growing economy, Campaspe has a sought-after lifestyle, good amenities and a strong representation of services that make it an attractive place to live, work, visit and play.

We deliver quality, innovative and community focused services today that make a difference for tomorrow. Council has implemented community partnership programs, which has seen an 8.4 percent reduction of waste going to landfill. These programs include the wickED (Waste in Campaspe - Know, Educate, Do) and Waste Pioneers Program.

Council also plays a key role in supporting the diversification and innovation of local business by working in partnership to identify growth and funding opportunities for infrastructure, facilitating skills and workforce development.

Breaking down industry employment An analysis of the jobs held by the local workers in City of Greater Shepparton in 2017/18 shows that the largest industry in terms of employment was Health Care & Social Assistance, with 17.2 percent of overall employment.

Below is a list of the top ten industries in the region, in terms of employment.

City of Greater Shepparton Employment (total), by industry 2017/18 Health Care and Social Assistance - 5,668 Retail Trade - 3,550 Agriculture, Forestry & Fishing - 3,227 Manufacturing - 3,101 Education & Training - 3,045 Construction - 2,879 Accommodation & Food Services - 1,917 Public Administration & Safety - 1,618 Transport, Postal & Warehousing - 1,205 Professional, Scientific and Technical - 1,195

August/September 2019 - Our Goulburn Valley Building a prosperous region together - The Shepparton Adviser

local businessman

This region continues to inspire me.

Everywhere on earth, places are contending with ideas that try to divide us, not bring us together. We are challenged by climate change, challenged about how to educate our children and stay in front of the changing face of work, challenged to be competitive in the world, challenged to live in a vibrant community, challenged about how to care for our disabled and disadvantaged.

Every day I work with our staff, our customers and our community leaders and I am amazed by how positive and welcoming this region is.

Businesses and institutions in the region are tackling our issues head on. We are not trying to recreate the past; we are finding ways to adjust and prepare for the future. The Goulburn Valley is adapting as well as any other community on the planet today.

Change is never easy, but our community is making the choice to improve itself. Our community is making the choice to prepare for the future, rather than to react and try to turn back the clock.

For a strong future we require robust education, great services, adaptive industry, effective leaders and institutions, and to be open to the world. While others argue, the Goulburn Valley is busy building an exciting future.

Primary Industries & Consumer Goods The Goulburn Valley is Australia’s greatest producer of food and fibre. Our region’s high yields and high quality produce don’t happen by accident. We have some of the best dairy herds in Australia, one of the most efficient irrigation systems, and some of the nation’s best fruit growers. We are also home to many producers of consumer goods, with these processors employing over 10,000 workers, both Australian and from overseas, right across the valley.

As a government we are proud to invest in our primary industries and in the consumer goods producers which drive our regions. Earlier this year, The Nationals in Government invested $15 million in a new fruit packing and sorting facility (FRUITCo) right here in the Goulburn Valley.

We understand, however, that our region needs more than just investment. All of our processors need access to cheap energy, and the farmers who supply many of our processors need reliable and affordable access to water.

As the federal representative for the Goulburn Valley, water policy and energy policy are top priorities. I am fighting hard to make water affordable for all of our farmers, and to keep the price of electricity and gas as low as it can possibly be.

Like all electorates we face many challenges, however the Goulburn Valley remains an exceptional place to live and to work, to raise a family and to grow old, and it has unlimited potential into the future.

Damian Drum MP, Federal Member for Nicholls

The Shepparton Adviser - Our Goulburn Valley Building a prosperous region together - August/September 2019

16

Our Goulburn Valley Primary Industries & Consumer Goods

An amazing workforce Beginning with a vision for an inclusive community, ConnectGV has been a part of the local community for over 60 years, now offering individualised support, accommodation and Our Social employment for people Enterprises provides with a disability. training, work experience onnectGV Social Enterprises and employment for around offer employment through 50 people. In addition, local community connections, enabling people with a businesses partner with disability to be a part of the us to further extend the economic development of their range of work experience community. ConnectGV CEO, Carolynne Frost said, “Our Social opportunities,” Enterprises provides training, work Carolynne Frost

C

experience and employment for around 50 people. In addition, local businesses partner with us to further extend the range of work experience opportunities.”

ConnectGV operates Social Enterprises, Billabong Garden Complex, Billabong Sweets & Treats, Flower Power, GV Ragz and ConnectGV Contracting.

From seed to sale, Billabong Garden Complex employees grow a variety of plants onsite, suited to local conditions. Home gardeners or landscapers

CREATING EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES… From left, ConnectGV supported employees, Jeff Hussey, Thomas Timmis, Adam Olsen, Daphne Crocker, Benjamin Devening, Laetitia Nash, Melinda Bohun, Michael Landy and Leslie Wilson. Photo: Katelyn Morse.

alike, Billabong has all you need for successful plantings. Wholesale enquiries are welcome and for large projects, Billabong will contract grow.

Supported employees at Billabong Sweets & Treats work on a range of tasks from packaging to labeling. Bulk supplies and custom packaging is available for businesses or for events. Lollie boxes are delivered to local workplaces, or you can purchase direct from Billabong Sweets & Treats on New Dookie Road.

Flower Power enables employees to be creative. Fresh seasonal flowers are arranged into vases and delivered to businesses, nursing homes and local residents.

Employment up four percent in the Goulburn Valley The latest statistics show an increase of four percent in overall employment throughout the last 12 months across various sectors throughout the Goulburn Valley. The total number of employees in the Goulburn Valley is now 64,862, up from 62,252 last year.

According to the latest census statistics of jobs held by local workers in the City of Greater Shepparton region, the five most popular industry sectors with the highest percentage of overall employment were Health Care and Social Assistance (16 percent), Retail Trade (11 percent), Manufacturing (9.3 percent), Education and Training (7.6 percent) and Construction (6.8 percent).

August/September 2019 - Our Goulburn Valley Building a prosperous region together - The Shepparton Adviser

Using special purpose cloth or recycled cloth items, the GV Ragz team process and sort the cloth into bags of rags for cleaning, polishing, trades and high-quality cloth for detailing.

ConnectGV Contracting has a ready workforce available for a range of tasks, be it packaging, collating, cleaning or garden maintenance.

6

services offered via ConnectGV

28% 48% 8% 17% Total number of employees Greater Shepparton: 30,906 Moira Shire: 10,913 Strathbogie Shire: 4,904 Campaspe Shire: 18,139

18

Our Goulburn Valley Primary Industries & Consumer Goods

Taking control of water over the phone With the capacity to take microscopic measurements of the trunk diameter of a fruit tree or the changing dimensions of a piece of fruit during the course of the day gives rise to a new level of technology availability in horticulture.

T

he management of water, as an expensive consumable in horticulture production, is increasingly becoming a focus of advances in technology. Admoor We can get Plumbing irrigation consultant, CALLING THE FUTURE… From left, group leader at the Agriculture Victoria research facility in Tatura, Dr Mark O’Connell and irrigation consultant at Admoor Plumbing, Sam Cannata. Photo: Katelyn Morse.

Sam Cannata said, “Being able readouts on our PC or to monitor it properly allows smartphone and being us to manage it properly.” requires the addition of fertilisers. as we have had in the past. We can get readouts on our connected, we can make Admoor Plumbing are the “We are currently doing trials on PC or smartphone and being connected, we can make regional agents for the Goldtec/ stone fruits and apples,” said Sam. any adjustments we need through our connections.” any adjustments we need Talgil Control System, a fully Dr Mark O’Connell, a group Sam added, “While it is connected online via a server, through our connections,” automatic control system that is leader at the Agriculture Victoria it can also be operated from the controller server locally Dr Mark O’Connell capable of monitoring the weather, research centre in Tatura, has been so that the operator can conduct the diagnostics needed soil moisture and temperature, plant working with the system on the and make adjustments at the growing location.” movement and root growth and with various trial crops on the station.

In today’s push for export business, minimising that data, the system can optimise and “The system enables us to determine the cost of all inputs is going to become increasingly regulate the appropriate flow of water a optimum cropping. Being fully automatic, it more critical, automated control systems are going plant needs and when it needs it along with when it does not need the same level of manual monitoring to take an even greater role in that process.

August/September 2019 - Our Goulburn Valley Building a prosperous region together - The Shepparton Adviser

20

Our Goulburn Valley Primary Industries & Consumer Goods

Going out of their way to find new leads It’s cold, but that does not prevent Michael Downie being out in the field talking to a property owner in his driveway about his interest in selling a parcel of land. He has a client looking for property in that area.

M

ichael Downie is the licensed estate agent and water broker at Landmark Harcourts Shepparton real estate agents. “Our business is quite often about finding property that is off-market to suit potential buyers’ needs,” he said.

Our business “There is greater confidence is quite often about in the market at the moment since 2000 but water access is finding property that PROPERTY TO SUIT YOUR NEEDS… From left, Landmark Harcourts Shepparton important. We are getting a lot of is off-market to suit rural sales consultant, Robert Bruns, senior water broker, Lauren McCabe and rural interest in dairy properties that real estate and water sales agent, Michael Downie. Photo: Sharelle Jarvis. potential buyers’ needs,” have access to groundwater due Michael Downie to the unreliability of the surface Lead region that is driving sales at to that confidence. If we can make irrigated water systems. If the reservoirs the moment,” said Rob Bruns, farm agriculture more viable, investment into the fill this year, buyers will be more sales specialist. “Because of last year, Goulburn Valley will continue to grow.” confident about irrigated properties.” buyers are tending to shy away from Michael’s conversation with the property Landmark Harcourts Shepparton’s relying on the temporary water market.” owner is fruitful. He has some blocks he is business is rural properties and brokering water “Rural is doing quite well at the moment,” wanting to put on the market and the team at entitlements. “It is groundwater in the Katunga deep said Michael. “Our business is doing well due Landmark Harcourts are ready to help.

August/September 2019 - Our Goulburn Valley Building a prosperous region together - The Shepparton Adviser

22

Our Goulburn Valley Primary Industries & Consumer Goods

Free trade agreement to benefit local businesses Australia’s entry into a free trade agreement with China has seen the expansion of great opportunities for local producers, particularly for agricultural production.

S

erving the needs of farmers throughout the region for 60 years, I K Caldwell plays a key role in helping growers maintain the high standards and production levels that are required to realise the export opportunities.

“Our business as a distributor of agricultural chemicals and fertilisers has led us into providing a range of agronomic and technical services to back that up. We have 30 agronomists on the road, providing technical support to growers. Growers have a number

HELPING GROWERS SET SIGHT ON NEW MARKETS… From left, I K Caldwell purchasing officer, Glenn Bigg, business manager horticulture, David Morey, general manager, David Jobling, accounts, Helen May and horticulturalist, Chris Davies Photo: Ash Beks.

of standards to meet, from local supermarket demands to those of the international markets,” I K Caldwell general manager, David Jobling said.

“Our Technical Services division provides a range of services for broadacre and horticulture growers’ needs. The Chinese market is going to be big business for Australian growers and having first-rate information on production and chemical needs will be critical. We provide services that

60

years servicing farmers throughout the region

August/September 2019 - Our Goulburn Valley Building a prosperous region together - The Shepparton Adviser

help growers meet the protocols and accreditation to trade with China.”

“It is not just the Chinese market that has opened up. Other markets in South and Southeast Asia are coming on stream - which is a positive for the rural sector. But growers will need to diversify and maintain the quality that is needed,” David added.

I K Caldwell is well placed to serve those needs with a suite of agronomy and analytical services available.

24

Our Goulburn Valley Primary Industries & Consumer Goods

SPC Factory Sales: full of surprises!

One might think very little changes in food retail selling.

Products come and products go as suppliers modify their ranges and marketing.

B

ut at SPC Factory Sales, the business is constantly evolving with new bargains that may have never been We see us on their shelves before meeting our business appearing each and every week. It is the challenges by staying in nature of their business. tune with community “Now that SPC and customer needs,” has new owners we Sam Prentice are hoping to see some more new and innovative products,” said Sam Prentice, owner of SPC Factory Sales. “The new owners have said they are planning to focus on reducing complexity and are looking to take the company to more international markets which we believe offers an exciting future for us and our customers.

“The factory sales business started out in Mooroopna 21 years ago just selling fruit products but over time as the business has grown, they now have over 100 suppliers and more than 1000 products.

You can walk down the aisles and see THREE GENERATIONS OF THE PRENTICE FAMILY… From left, SPC Factory Sales co-owner, Sam Prentice, with family members, Georgina Prentice, 18-month old, Adeline, Linda Prentice, 3-year-old Harriet and co-owner, Andrew Prentice Photo: Sharelle Jarvis. new products on the shelf every day.

“Our emphasis is on helping suppliers clear excess stock. The savings we challenges by staying in tune with into a second store in Bayswater. Sam a director of the company for 11 years. make on getting the stock community and customer needs.” is the fourth generation associated with You might say they have SPC fruit into our store gets passed on to Sam and his father, Andrew Prentice the SPC business. Andrew, his father juice running through their veins! our customers,” Sam said. have owned the business for seven and grandfather were all fruit grower/ So come in to SPC Factory “We see us meeting our business years and have overseen expansion suppliers to SPC and Andrew was also Sales…you’ll be surprised!!!

Depot growth a priority for local pallet business With 18 years of experience in the industry, K&S Pallets is one of the largest pallet manufacturers in regional Victoria. Starting out as a family business, the team behind K&S Pallets has We use left over slowly transformed into timber and manufacture a more corporate-style resalable used pallets business due to the to ensure we don’t have success and demand of unnecessary waste,” the industry.

Grant McConkey

N

ot only that, K&S Pallets is one of few pallet manufacturers who provide end-toend manufacturing. They source the majority of their timber through their own saw mill in South Australia, ensuring their pallets

A STRONG FAMILY BUSINESS… From left, the family behind K&S Pallets, managing director, Victor Kyriakou, director, Jackie Kyriakou, supervisor, Nathan Kyriakou, administration, Amy Georgopoulos and production manager, Andrew Kyriakou. Photo: Katelyn Morse.

and produce bins are the highest quality for their customers.

The company also strives to be as waste-free as possible.

K&S Pallets general manager, Grant McConkey, explained, “We use left over timber and manufacture resalable used pallets to ensure we don’t have unnecessary waste.”

August/September 2019 - Our Goulburn Valley Building a prosperous region together - The Shepparton Adviser

“Recycling our timber also allows more flexibility for our customers as it gives them more affordable options.”

Already supplying customers with pallets and dunnage who export internationally to China, New Zealand, USA and the United Kingdom, K&S Pallets are looking to set up depots across the east coast of Australia and gain more work in the major cities in the near future.

26

Our Goulburn Valley Primary Industries & Consumer Goods

Aiming at the peak of fruit perfection

36

million boxes of fresh produce each year

87

A pear is at the best time of its life when it is ripe to eat. Beginning its Australian operations in 2005, Freshmax introduced a new pear cultivar to Goulburn Valley growers, the Piqa®Boo® that had been developed over a 20 year period in New Zealand.

countries with commercial relationships

A

ccording to Sona Padman, Campaign Manager for Freshmax, “Piqa® Boo® is a third-generation Globally, we run interspecific pear supply and marketing TO PICK THE PERFECT PEAR… Varapodio which combines Orchards owner, Rocky Varapodio is one of programs into multiple characteristics of the growers in the region who have taken on European, Japanese the Piqa®Boo® pear. Photo: Supplied. markets including Asia, the and Chinese pears Middle East, Europe and which give the can smell its floral bouquet.”

North America including fruit its unique There are a number of growers in the Canada,” Sona Padman shape, the vibrant Goulburn Valley region now growing red skin, the brilliant the fruit which has a limited season white crisp flesh and from May through to July and is available its amazing juiciness. You in leading retail stores across Australia.

Since Freshmax was first founded in 1995, it has increased its global reach with commercial relationships across 87 countries. On an annual basis they handle more than 36 million boxes of fresh produce.

Rocky Varapodio, an orchardist in Ardmona is one grower who has taken on the Piqa® Boo® pear. “It is very exciting to have a new pear variety in a category that had gone stale. Piqa® Boo® pear has a lovely colour and is so juicy. It’s invigorating to see.”

“Globally, we run supply and marketing programs into multiple markets including Asia, the Middle East, Europe and North America including Canada,” said Sona.

The name Piqa® originates from the word peak and Piqa® fruits represent the peak of fruit perfection.

Ripe, ready-to-eat and delightfully exotic.

Gross Regional Product How to tell that a region is developing and continuing to grow can be seen through its Gross Regional Product, with the latest statistics provided through REMPLAN Latest REMPLAN data incorporating Australian Bureau of Statistics’ (ABS) June 2018 Gross State Product, 2015 / 2016 National Input Output Tables and 2016 Census Place of Work Employment Data showing the Goulburn Valley’s total Gross Regional Product (GRP), or net measure of wealth generated by the region, hitting just over $8.978B, an increase of around $475M compared to last year’s statistics.

TOTAL IN THE GOULBURN VALLEY $8.978B Greater Shepparton $4.528B

Moira Shire $1.607B

Strathbogie Shire $526.094M

Campaspe Shire $2.317B

Household Consumption – $3.059B Government Consumption – $981.311M Private Gross Fixed Capital Expenditure – $1.077B

Household Consumption – $1.395B Government Consumption – $405.753M Private Gross Fixed Capital Expenditure – $427.858M

Household Consumption – $492.150M Government Consumption – $138.884M Private Gross Fixed Capital Expenditure – $150.318M

Household Consumption – $1.775B Government Consumption – $552.822M Private Gross Fixed Capital Expenditure – $592.331M

Gross Regional Expenses – $5.358B plus Regional Exports – $3.237B minus Domestic Imports – -$3.266B minus Overseas Imports – -$801.160M Total GRP – $4.528B

Gross Regional Expenses – $2.328B plus Regional Exports – $1.312B minus Domestic Imports – -$1.774B minus Overseas Imports – -$259.211M Total GRP – $1.607B

Gross Regional Expenses – $815.448M plus Regional Exports – $428.443M minus Domestic Imports – -$637.497M minus Overseas Imports – -$80.300M Total GRP – $526.094M

Gross Regional Expenses – $3.056B plus Regional Exports – $1.881B minus Domestic Imports – -$2.1013B minus Overseas Imports – -$516.671M Total GRP – $2.317B

August/September 2019 - Our Goulburn Valley Building a prosperous region together - The Shepparton Adviser

28

Our Goulburn Valley Primary Industries & Consumer Goods

Pental- not just an Australian manufacturer, also a

global brands distribution specialist!

There is something comforting in learning that many Australian household brand name products are being manufactured and distributed from a global brands distribution specialist right here in the Goulburn Valley.

F

rom its manufacturing plant and computerised distribution Many of the centre in Shepparton, products HOUSEHOLD NAME… Pental customer service and finished goods distribution manager, Beth Smith says brands we manufacture up to 20 B-double trucks get loaded up with their products daily in Shepparton. Photo: Katelyn Morse. such as White King, Jiffy, & distribute are going Huggie, Softly, Lux Flakes, Sunlight dishwashing liquid It is now fully computerised Beth added, “This has had a significant impact on our overseas, particularly into and Velvet, to name a few of and we are working towards need to update our warehouse management system.

China and South East Asia as their portfolio of iconic brand a paperless system. This will Many of the brands we manufacture & distribute are well as to the major domestic names, are being shipped all see our operating efficiencies going overseas, particularly into China and south east retailers,” Beth Smith. over Australia and abroad. increase and allow Pental to Asia as well as to the major domestic retailers. System Beth Smith, customer service leverage its volume as a quality inventory traceability to meet customer & compliance and finished goods distribution and low cost distribution agent.” needs are now fully operational and best in class.” manager explained, “We can Pental has recently taken on Wherever you go in Australia today, it would be have up to 20 B-doubles a day the national distribution of Duracell odd not to find at least one Pental product that being loaded with product, so we had batteries which is a major volume product has come through their Shepparton distribution to bring our warehousing system up to date. in addition to its Pears brand distribution. centre, run proudly by a local professional team.

August/September 2019 - Our Goulburn Valley Building a prosperous region together - The Shepparton Adviser

30

Our Goulburn Valley Primary Industries & Consumer Goods

They would make a pear blush At the heart of the Goulburn Valley horticultural region, a group of people think about ways to make a pear blush.

When it does, it offers ways to open doors in a dozen different markets.

A

griculture Victoria Tatura is where science intersects with production, where a piece of fruit can yield a chest full of data that can keep a scientist engaged for days on end.

Agriculture Victoria’s site leader, Dr Bruce Gill, horticulture research leader, and Dr Ian Goodwin, are two scientists among the 85 people employed at the research centre. Research projects and agricultural support services at Tatura aim to improve Australia’s

WHERE SCIENCE MEETS PRODUCTION… From left, Agriculture Victoria site leader, Dr Bruce Gill and horticulture research leader, Dr Ian Goodwin are part of a team of 85 scientists aiming to improve export capabilities and profitability in Victoria horticulturists. Photo: Steve Hutcheson.

export capabilities and profitability of horticulturalists across the state.

“Australian horticulture now has an export focus. What we are looking at here is being able to develop fruit that appeals to new markets, especially those in South East Asia,” Dr Gill added.

“We have taken cultivars from Australian National Pear Breeding Program and looked at ways we can maximise production of highquality fruit for export. Red blush pears have particular appeal to Asian markets. Being able to achieve that involves getting just the right amount of light onto the fruit at the right time. For example, it involves

pruning at the right time to allow the light through,” Dr Goodwin added.

“Too much sunlight can cause bleaching, too little and the fruit stays green. It is a balance.”

The research centre maintains a close relationship with the growers through horticultural extension services and research into matters that affect fruit production such as pest control measures and disease management, dry conditions and climate change.

The focus is to enable growers to maintain clean, green production systems that enhance Victoria’s highquality fruit export industries.

Tough times never last, tough people do

TEAM EFFORT… The small community of Wanalta rallied together recently to take part in a mammoth event, shearing over 700 sheep to raise $66,755 in funds to be distributed between The Royal Children’s Hospital and the Monash Medical Centre. Photo: Steve Hutcheson.

Country living has a lot to do with helping each other when things are tough. In many aspects of Australian rural life, when people on the land are seeking interest free credit from the gods in the form of rain and it fails to materialise, it is tough for everyone.

P

utting their own tough living aside as climate change and the effects of drought bite in, people in the small rural precinct of Wanalta and surrounds have dug deep into their pockets for other people doing it tough. In this case it is kids in hospitals fighting against cancer.

For the past five years, Bill and Katrina Ogden have been bringing the community together to raise funds for this worthy cause. This year is no different. Through the efforts of all those she has been able to muster, they have raised $66,755. The next stage will be to hand over the cheque to the My Room Telethon on the 29th August where the funds will be distributed between The Royal Children’s Hospital and the Monash Medical Centre, cancer ward.

Of course, the day would not be the same without the invaluable contribution of the dozen men who work in the shed shearing more than 700 sheep, the shearers and the roustabouts.

Adding to the festivity of the day, Katrina was able to cajole champion Australian footballer and Brownlow medalist, Shane Crawford into putting his back into to shearing a sheep for the occasion.

The events started when Katrina met with the child of a friend who was in the hospital fighting against lung cancer.

Each year she and her husband along with neighbours, Bill and Val Barlow in whose shed the event was staged, demonstrate what it means to live in the bush, we are all in this together.

August/September 2019 - Our Goulburn Valley Building a prosperous region together - The Shepparton Adviser

Engineering & Manufacturing

The Goulburn Valley is known the world over as a great place to grow things. Whilst most immediately think of apples, peaches and pears as well as dairy and other agricultural products, it has also been a great place for growing businesses.

Our family owned and managed business, J. Furphy & Sons has been here since 1873 – having originally started in Kyneton in 1864 – and has grown significantly to become one of the largest manufacturers of stainless steel tanks and vessels in Australia.

We also operate a hot dip galvanizing plant, servicing metal fabrication businesses throughout the Goulburn Valley with sister plants in Geelong and Albury.

My cousin Sam’s business – Furphy Foundry – is a manufacturer and installer of street furniture and open space infrastructure supplying customers throughout Australia. The combined Furphy businesses employ over 180 people including over a dozen apprentices at our Shepparton headquarters.

Manufacturing businesses like ours rely heavily on on-going investment in order to be sustainable – both on the part of our customers and in our own businesses. Investment requires confidence in the future and whilst it is not difficult to point to challenges facing our community, the on-going strength of the local manufacturing sector is a reflection of the fundamental confidence in the future of our great Goulburn Valley.

Adam Furphy, managing director of J. Furphy & Sons

The Shepparton Adviser - Our Goulburn Valley Building a prosperous region together - August/September 2019

32

Our Goulburn Valley Engineering & Manufacturing

Local steel business boost from food processing August marks the 25th year that John Varapodio and Warren Batey took the big leap forward to establish Shepparton Stainless Steel, now SSS Fabrications & Installations and SSS Our latest big projects have been Project Management. the peach and apricot s two young men, they processing plant at SPC had worked together as and the aseptic filler at apprentices before taking to the Campbell’s Soups,” road in 1991, working in their trade as maintenance fitters and turners Warren Batey

A

at a food plant in Griffith. After some years of working in Griffith, with the experience they had gained, they returned to Shepparton to establish their own business. This year marks their 25th anniversary.

SSS has grown to the stage where they have now divided the business into a fabrication component and

25 STRONG AND SUCCESSFUL YEARS… From left, John Varapodio and Warren Batey are excited about the journey they’ve taken together since establishing Shepparton Stainless Steel, now SSS Fabrications & Instillations and SSS Project Management. Photo: Katelyn Morse.

a project management business.

Much of their work is centered around food processing, dairy and chemical plants for industries in the Goulburn Valley region.

As it is with a number of businesses in this region, they see the greatest potential for growth in providing support for the increasing level of export of the various agricultural products being produced in the Goulburn Valley.

“We can see that as the business of the factories processing the food grows, so will

our business,” said John Varapodio.

“Our latest big projects have been the peach and apricot processing plant at SPC and the aseptic filler at Campbell’s Soups,” added Warren referring to two major food production clients.

In reaching their 25th anniversary, John and Warren were both thankful to the staff they have had working for them over the years and the businesses that have supported them. Most of all, a big thank you to their families. “We may not have got this far if it had not been for them,” said John.

34

Our Goulburn Valley Engineering & Manufacturing

COMMITTED TO DEVELOPING BUSINESS RELATIONSHIPS… The team at Trevaskis Engineering are hoping to branch out into the horticulture industry. Photo: Katelyn Morse.

We have a commitment in developing lasting business relationships with all our customers,” Michael Mason

Delivering 60 years of expertise Trevaskis Engineering began in 1959 as a father-son partnership performing basic sheet metal work and jobbing from a farm workshop. From these humble beginnings they have developed a unique workshop specialising in precision punching, cutting, forming and pressing of sheet metal.

T

revaskis Engineering has experienced steady growth in sales and production output over the years. This is in part due to their willingness to continually update and use state-of-the-art equipment, including the latest laser profile cutting equipment and CNC Turret Punching facility. This enables them to maintain competitive pricing whilst increasing the accuracy and quality of their work.

Trevaskis Engineering general manager, Michael Mason said, “We’ve been serving many organisations,

both large and small, across a wide range of industries over the years. We have a commitment in developing lasting business relationships with all our customers.”

Recently, Trevaskis Engineering have invested in new state-of-the-art laser cutting technology and expanded their range of feeding systems for the livestock industry. They are also hoping to apply their knowledge and experience to branch out into the horticulture industry.

36

Our Goulburn Valley Engineering & Manufacturing

3D printing – the future for engineering business Behind JMAR Engineering’s managing director, Mark Hooper’s desk, he keeps a folder of pencil line technical engineering drawings he did when he was in technical school, just for nostalgia.

“T

he biggest change I had was moving from an A1 or A0 size sheet of paper to working off a computer screen,” Mark said.

Our immediate Now, business at JMAR is all future is to build on the computer-driven. They are extensive manufacturing PLANNING FOR THE FUTURE… JMAR Engineering managing director, Mark Hooper believes that one of the largest capacity technological advancements like 3D printing will be the way of the future. Photo: Katelyn Morse. facility we now have, provide Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machine shops in for a number of major recent and improve our procedure. We are presently service and reliability to our the region which also offers projects in Shepparton.” modifying the building across from our main office customers, and improve our profile plate and sheet metal When asked how he sees as our distribution centre to further that aim.” procedure,” Mark Hooper cutting, using high definition the future, Mark believes 3D JMAR have built their business around supplying plasma and the latest fibre laser printing will be it. “At present services to other firms in the region and Mark is technology with an expanded we try to find the component proud of the strides his business has made. workshop in the building next door. within the piece of material and “We started out as a labour hire firm and machine “With a 1kW and 4kW laser waste a lot to get there. In the future shop some 25 years ago, but I am passionate about cutting machine we are able to as they improve the metallurgy, it will be machining and how the digital world controlled completely change our focus and ability to done with no waste, saving energy and resources. what was all manually operated when I first started service our clients’ needs,” Mark said.

“Our immediate future is to build on the in this career. Now we only have three machines “A lot of our work now is construction profile plate extensive manufacturing facility we now have, left that are manual; how times have changed.” cutting and we have supplied in part, plate components provide service and reliability to our customers

38

Our Goulburn Valley Engineering & Manufacturing

Nailing team culture key to pallet business Lean manufacturing, or TPS (Toyota Production System) as it is known, involves a focus on the flow or smoothness of work. Pallet & Bin Corporation have embraced this philosophy with the aim of not just improving its business but making it a far better place to work.

F

or the past several months and looking into the future, they have Our products MANAGEMENT TEAM AT PALLET & BIN CORPORATION… From left, general manager, Matt Alessi engaged consultants to work with and directors, Rod Luscombe, Ron Davey and Andrew McNab. Photo: Katelyn Morse. management and employees (wooden pallets and every two weeks on a TPS lean fruit bins) are sometimes training program focused on our team is something If we go unnoticed, we’ve done our job. Proper forgotten, but in fact they building a team culture. we are very proud of. preparation and planning is the key to being able perform a vital role within a General manager, Matt Alessi “Our products (wooden to respond to our customers ever changing needs. says, “Sport imitates life and pallets and fruit bins) are Our systems are there to ensure our reliability.” surprisingly large number adopting a team approach sometimes forgotten, but Managing director, Rod Luscombe said, “Working of Goulburn Valley has improved productivity and in fact they perform a vital on our culture has helped solve a number of issues businesses,” Matt Alessi the skills required for each team role within a surprisingly large for us. Primarily it has improved our workflow. By member to do their job. We are number of Goulburn Valley having a team confident enough to ask questions constantly challenged, and finding businesses. Like a good umpire we get better answers. This in turn ultimately solutions by involving input from within in any sport – our job is to perform. makes for a better work environment for all.”

Business as strong as concrete continues to grow CREATING LOCAL JOBS… From left, Civilmart State Manager VIC/SA and sales representatives, Brett Warburton, Zack Betson and Lee Tweedie.

Photo: Sharelle Jarvis.

The word concrete comes from the Latin word ‘concretus’, which means to grow together. It is an apt description of the product and more significantly for a local Shepparton firm that employs it.

C

ivilmart has grown from small beginnings to what is now a national company in the space of only eight years.

“We are now a national company that still has the feel of a friendly family company,” said Chris Capstick, for Civilmart. “A company of this size could easily be based in the city but the directors see value in operating from the Goulburn Valley. We have expanded laterally with several acquisitions to the business over the past two years.”

Nationally, the company employs more than 400 people.

“Over the next few years, we will aim to centralise a lot of the administrative and technical functions to our head office August/September 2019 - Our Goulburn Valley Building a prosperous region together - The Shepparton Adviser

here in the Goulburn Valley, developing more employment opportunities locally and expanding on our wealth of technical knowledge and skills. One great advantage of working for Civilmart is the opportunity to work alongside industry experts to learn and develop our skills.”

In keeping with the local values, the company supports its local employee, Australasian super welterweight champion boxer Dwight Richie in his quest for the international title.

“The company is creating lots of new jobs as we grow as well as investing in new technology and techniques not seen before in the civil industry, keeping Civilmart at the cutting edge of what is possible,” said Chris.

At their new factory in Doyles Road, besides keeping a range of their precast concrete products, Civilmart have added a new trade centre that offers builders, tradies and the general public a range of professional grade tools and equipment.

40

Our Goulburn Valley Engineering & Manufacturing

Investing in cutting edge technology Its existence is steeped in Shepparton’s history. Its name is embedded in the lexicon of Australian cultural language, its manufactured legacy is revered by collectors and now, it is investing in cutting edge technology that will further cement its place in the Goulburn Valley.

J

Furphy & Sons manufacturing division Furphy Engineering is an engineering institution in Shepparton. Following AN ENGINEERING GIANT IN THE GOULBURN VALLEY… Adam Furphy, managing director of J Furphy & Sons is on from recent investment in and committed to continuing to contribute to the Goulburn Valley manufacturing industry. Photo: Steve Hutcheson.

This new welder expansion of their tank building is the only one of its workshops, the company has this machine also allows us The other major operation aside from the kind in Australia and recently invested in new laser to explore new markets for comprehensive engineering capability of J Furphy & welding machinery to manufacture laser welded dimple plate Sons is their hot dip galvanizing plant that can galvanize helps us provide excellent integrated laser welded dimple heat exchangers and we are beams up to 16m in length. Furphy Galvanizing processes product performance,” plate heat exchange panels on their looking forward to that.” over 5,000 tonnes of fabricated steel items per annum Adam Furphy stainless-steel tanks as well as a range Working in conjunction with through it’s bath of molten zinc, providing superior of other heat exchange products. their engineering capabilities, corrosion protection to the galvanized items. Customers Adam Furphy, the managing director, Furphy Engineering also have throughout the Goulburn Valley rely on this facility. is understandably proud of the company’s a comprehensive visual tank weld Currently more than 100 local people are employed history as well as their current technical inspection capability where cameras

by J Furphy & Sons including 12 apprentices, an positioning. “This new welder is the only one of its lowered into the tanks can pick up any ongoing commitment which has contributed much kind in Australia and helps us provide excellent product structural defects in a maintenance inspection as well to the Goulburn Valley manufacturing industry. performance for our tank and vessel customers. But as detecting any sanitary issues that might arise.

Old firm expanding with new direction The identity and language of Australia is often built around the informal nature of the men and women who makes its numbers.

It was casual conversations and tall stories around a water cart during the first world war that gave rise to the term “a furphy”.

T

hose conversations continue today in park shelters, picnic areas and around public BBQ’s, such is the new generation of products being produced at Furphy Foundry. “The major product focus of the company nowadays is the design, manufacture and installation of street and park furniture and open space structures sold to councils, landscape architects, schools and developers throughout Australia and overseas,” said Sam Furphy, managing director of Furphy Foundry.

“Since acquiring Landmark Products

and KSG BBQ’s in the last six years, Furphy Foundry have extended our product range to include more significant public infrastructure including shelters, restrooms and sports change room facilities, all kit form engineered and designed to accommodate the changing needs of the Australian public. For example restrooms are changing to better accommodate people with disabilities and public sporting changeroom facilities are changing to better accommodate the growth in girls

playing football and cricket,” Sam said.

In meeting the increased demand, Furphy Foundry now have five work centres within their growing Shepparton operations. These include cast aluminium, steel & stainless-steel fabrication, timber fabrication, product coatings and packaging and logistics.

“With over 150 years of manufacturing experience, our Shepparton operations are being expanded as the primary production hub to service national and international sales. A second manufacturing plant is located in Brisbane’s north, assisting with manufacturing of products destined

for northern Queensland and Northern Territory. Last month we opened our new coatings facility including a new powder coating plant to deal with the range of products we are making. We continue to be well supported by skilled local service providers as well,” said Sam. With a growing population and changing lifestyles, the need for recreational facilities continues throughout the country. Sam says, “We know that many people gather at these new Furphy products and we are happy that they are continuing the age-old Australian practice of telling a few furphys.”

With over 150 years of manufacturing experience, our Shepparton operations are being expanded as the primary production hub to service national & international sales,” Sam Furphy MEETING THE INCREASED DEMAND… Furphy Foundry casting plant in action. Photo: Supplied.

August/September 2019 - Our Goulburn Valley Building a prosperous region together - The Shepparton Adviser

42

Our Goulburn Valley Engineering & Manufacturing

Asia on the radar for local packaging business When you visit your local supermarket, fruit shop or corner store, there’s a fair chance you will be purchasing food items packaged by one of Shepparton’s most dynamic manufacturers, SCS Plastics.

C

ontinuously forging new ground in the packaging business, SCS Plastics provide a turn-key solution for all packaging, specialising in the dairy, fruit, deli and smallgoods sectors.

Employing approximately 50 people and with more growth predicted in 2020, the family run business is a true home grown success story.

The company, run by the Davkovski family, is looking to the future with biodegradable and compostable products.

“We’re expanding at a rapid rate and the significant thing is all material, including raw material we use is recyclable and food grade, the raw material is manufactured on site,” director, Chris Davkovski told Our Goulburn Valley magazine.

SCS Plastics is looking to take the business beyond Australia’s shores into Asia.

The business was founded by brothers, Chris and George Davkovski as a cold storage business in 1981, adding transport with a fleet of trucks in 1983 and plastic packaging in 1985.

The Davkovski family have come a long way since arriving from Macedona in 1962, owing £1,050. Four generations, the first being Jane and Mara Davkovski, then Mitre and Lenka, then Chris and

FAMILY BUSINESS… From left, SCS Plastics directors, Chris Davkovski and George Davkovski are proud of the growth their family business has achieved in the region. Photo: Sharelle Jarvis.

George and now David and Johnny, are a classic Goulburn Valley piece of history of migrants arriving on our shores with very little and with an amazing attitude to do well in a new country. From an orchard on Benalla Road, they have created a sustainable business that’s allowed generations of the family to prosper.

SCS Plastics operates from a large industrial site on Wheeler Street, Shepparton. It is currently advancing plans for the arrival of a new $2 million high tech production line from Germany, which is due to be operational in February 2020.

Our Goulburn Valley magazine recognises another great success story in the Goulburn Valley.

$2M

high tech production line from Germany to be operational by February 2020

Taking engineering to the next level Steve and Sandra-Lee Snelling took over their engineering business 16 years ago, after Steve had approached Jim Murphy at his workshop in Lockwood Road, what was then known as J. Murphy Sheetmetal, and asked if he would be interested in selling his business. After over 20 years in business, Jim was ready to slow down and agreed to the sale. Jim helped in the transition over the next three years before fully retiring.

“W

e have altered the focus relationships and trust with your clients.” of the business since the In the early days following Steve and earlier days. Jim’s focus was on mainly Sandra-Lee taking over, the number of Sheetmetal works, since taking over, employees has grown. In those early we have worked hard at chasing down days it was just Steve and Jim in the larger fabrication\project work. We workshop with Sandra-Lee taking care have managed to get involved with of all the bookwork. manufacturing items for such projects as Now Snelling Engineering employs KFC, McDonalds and Coles,” said Steve.

10 full time employees. “Our tradesmen “We started off by only doing some and apprentices enjoy the vast smaller components and aspects of variety of work we do, with the added the overall project. The number of responsibility of being required to components and aspects that we are measure, manufacture and install their now involved in has grown work,” added Steve. greatly over the years. Our Jim and Steve continue to growth has come from maintain their friendship We our ability to diversify and Jim was on hand to have managed and increase the help Steve relive those range of fabrication early days. As Jim to get involved with services we can opined, “It has been manufacturing items provide. Over the great to watch Steve for such projects as years, we have and Sandra-Lee take also increased the the business to the KFC, McDonalds number of clients next level.” and Coles,” Steve who contract for Snelling these projects. It is a matter of building good

August/September 2019 - Our Goulburn Valley Building a prosperous region together - The Shepparton Adviser

THEN... Steve Snelling and Jim Murphy back in 2003 when Steve first took over.

Photo: Suppled NOW... Fast-forward 16 years, now 2019, Steve and Jim still catch up from time to time.

Photo: Katelyn Morse.

Infrastructure, Construction & Development Victoria is home to some very special parts of the world – and the Goulburn Valley is one of them. From its natural beauty to its tight-knit communities, you should be immensely proud of the strong, vibrant region you have all built together.

We want to continue that success, and we are committed to working with you – the local community – to achieve it. Our priorities have been shaped by you, and they are already making a difference.

Whether it’s the redevelopment of GV Health, or delivering an extra 500,000 specialist medical appointments in regional Victoria for regional Victorians, we’re making sure that you have the services you need, where and when you need them.

And with our upgrades to the Shepparton Line, we’ve delivered even more weekly services and, for the first time ever, we’re paving the way for VLocity trains – helping to get you where you need to go.

But we know there’s still more work to do. That’s why we’ll keep backing this proud, strong part of our state.

The Hon Daniel Andrews MP, Victorian Premier

The Shepparton Adviser - Our Goulburn Valley Building a prosperous region together - August/September 2019

44

Our Goulburn Valley Infrastructure, Construction & Development

History stands property firm in good stead With the forthcoming implementation of 130 reforms to the Residential Tenancies Act, prior to 30th June 2020, you need an experienced Property Management Team to advise and guide you through the potential pitfalls.

F

rom tenant selection, legislative compliance and VCAT hearings to ensuring you get the best return on your investment, let the team at Youngs & Co Real Estate take the stress out of property management and call one of their team now.

The Youngs & Co Real Estate team has a wonderful mix of youth and experience, Whether offering a complete real estate you are a homeservice from both their Shepparton buyer looking to build and Mooroopna locations.

A family business established their very first home or in 1997 but with a combined someone that’s seeking experience encompassing nearly that perfect space to build 130 years, the team is a group EXTENSIVE LOCAL KNOWLEDGE… From left, Youngs & Co directors, Glenn & your dream home,” of locals proudly supporting Connie Young and consultant, Les Young. Photo: Katelyn Morse. the community. The Youngs Glenn Young have gained extensive knowledge Westwood Run and Tatura Waters. of our area and are very grateful for Youngs & Co director, Glenn Young said, an extensive and loyal client base.

“We have something for everyone! Whether One of the leaders in land subdivisions, you are a home-buyer looking to build their very Youngs & Co now offer seven land developments first home or someone that’s seeking that perfect space across the region, including: Kialla Lakes Estate, Riviera to build your dream home, we have land available from Park, Grammar Park Gardens, Rosemont, Park Views, 400m2 to 2,000m2 – and everything in between.”

130

combined years experience

August/September 2019 - Our Goulburn Valley Building a prosperous region together - The Shepparton Adviser

Our Goulburn Valley Infrastructure, Construction & Development

45

Improving health and wellbeing for the entire community

By GV Health CEO, Matt Sharp

It is a very busy and exciting time at GV Health across all our campuses.

Wnew five-year strategic plan, e are about to launch our

which is the start of an ambitious era for our organisation to improve health and wellbeing outcomes for our entire community. Our plan puts our patients and their families at the centre of everything we do and sets out how we will work with our community, our healthcare partners and government to deliver high-quality care for all in the region.

The $172 million redevelopment of the Graham Street, Shepparton campus funded by the State Government is well underway, with the new dialysis unit on schedule to be opened by November 2019. The expansion of the emergency department is also tracking well as we double its size. The five-storey inpatient unit tower has risen out of the ground and has become a real beacon as you can see it from almost anywhere in Shepparton. I’m thrilled to see this much-needed redevelopment become

HEALTH FROM UP HIGH… The new $176 million redevelopment of GV Health’s Graham Street, Shepparton campus is well underway. Photo: Katelyn Morse.

a reality. We are also embarking on the planning for the next stage of the redevelopment at the Graham Street campus.

We welcome the $26 million funding announcement earlier this year from the Australian Government to invest in an integrated cancer centre at our Graham Street site. This funding will be used to build a new state-of-the-art facility allowing GV Health to expand its current cancer services while introducing new programs and models of care for people in the region with cancer.

Our newly redeveloped Waranga Health facility in Rushworth is now fully operational and all residents,

patients and staff from the Waranga Memorial Hospital and Nursing Home have now relocated to the new facility. Waranga Health provides the Rushworth community a flexible facility locating primary, acute, aged care, community health and district nursing services on the one site, making access to health services easier for everyone.

GV Health is focused on its continual improvement and will work hard to ensure communities across the Goulburn Valley and beyond have access to the wide range of quality services it deserves for not only today, but for the future.

The Shepparton Adviser - Our Goulburn Valley Building a prosperous region together - August/September 2019

48

Our Goulburn Valley Infrastructure, Construction & Development

A man and his machines moving mountains On the corner of New Dookie Road and Doyles Road they are constructing a new roundabout. Machines and men are busy on the site. At the centre of it all, down in the pit calling out instructions to the operator, is Tony Scaffidi, owner and manager of Scaffidi Contractors Pty Ltd.

“T

his is a new job. I have a good team and we all work together,” he said.

The type of work Scaffidi Contractors does, demands all his men to be able to take charge as required.

The company “The company started off doing started off doing concrete works and over the years we have moved more and concrete works and over HIVE OF CONSTRUCTION… Shepparton’s industrial areas are bustling with construction more into civil works. There are activity lately, the kind of services Scaffidi Contactors can provide. Photo: Katelyn Morse. the years we have moved seven excavators in the fleet, more and more into civil up to 30 tonne. We do a lot of of construction activity. New digging the trenches for drainage works,” said Tony. works,” Tony Scaffidi tramways infrastructure work work sites are appearing almost The work his team were doing on the in Melbourne, as well as council daily. All need the type of services roundabout site was excavations and then work and a lot of irrigation work. I Scaffidi Contractors provide. setting in place a large drainage pit. Scaffidi need each one in the team to be able “Our job is the civil works, removing Contractors have just completed the civil works to work independently,” said Tony. the topsoil and getting the ground on a large factory project on Doyles Road.

The industrial region in Shepparton is a hive prepared for the concreters to lay slabs or Tony and his team are indeed moving mountains.

August/September 2019 - Our Goulburn Valley Building a prosperous region together - The Shepparton Adviser

INNOVATION AND FORWARD THINKING… Creating beautiful estates for home owners is the focus of Development Edge’s Peter Mintern, Kate Clarke and retired lawyer, Peter Johnson. Photo: Shepparton News.

Local developer looks to expand Local innovation and forward thinking is behind some of Shepparton and the Goulburn Valleys most exciting residential estate developments and is exactly what sets Development Edge apart.

“E

very place we create is shaped with people in mind. Our places consider the future by ensuring that we keep sustainability, livability and the environment at the forefront,” said Peter Mintern, director of Development Edge.

Development Edge was formed seven years ago, building on the expertise of its company members. “Our collective experience across various professions enables us to manage all stages on behalf of our syndicate investors, starting with the due diligence, purchase, through to design and construction and ongoing maintenance.”

Seven Creeks Estate, Providence Fields, The Vines, Woodlands and Sanctuary Park Estate make up the current Development Edge portfolio.

With a philosophy to create quality housing estates with a mix of location, lot sizes and price brackets, offering opportunities for a broad demographic, including first home buyers, retirees, busy professionals, families and investors is what set Development Edge apart.

“Our business model is intended to be Our places flexible. We offer various models to landowners consider the future by including outright purchases, joint ventures and development partnerships,” said Peter. ensuring that we keep Development Edge are more than sustainability, livability happy to hear from landowners that are and the environment interested in developing their land. “We at the forefront,” are passionate about exploring the full potential of a property owner’s land.”

Peter Mintern

52

Our Goulburn Valley Infrastructure, Construction & Development

Design style and engineered energy efficiency “With our wide portfolio of aluminium doors and windows we offer a range of services at Inspired Architectural SHOWING THEIR HIGH QUALITY PRODUCTS… Anthony Ciavarella of Inspired Architectural Windows and Doors at their display centre. Photo: Katelyn Morse.

Windows and Doors,” Anthony Ciavarella of Inspired under a range of weather conditions.” the biggest commercial projects at the moment for Inspired Architectural Windows Inspired Architectural Windows and Doors is the It is our Architectural Windows and Doors look to source materials Myrtleford Sports Stadium, of which their system ability to offer quality and Doors, told Our and glass from local suppliers. being Thermally Efficient Doors and Windows is products which we are Goulburn Valley AWS is based in Dandenong integral to the energy efficiency of the building. proud of. Our doors have and all their extrusions for “It is our ability to offer quality products which magazine.

Victoria are processed there. we are proud of. Our doors have the capacity to be the capacity to be installed at ince joining the AWS With buildings in this installed at floor level. This makes them particularly floor level. This makes them Group three years region, windows and doors appealing for their ability to reduce trip hazards particularly appealing for ago, we have constantly need to comply with the and for wheelchair accessibility,” Anthony said. evolved with innovation in relevant Bushfire Attack Level “The double-glazed windows can incorporate their ability to reduce trip product design and efficiency (BAL) ratings and Inspired Thermally Broken Extrusion to increase hazards and for wheelchair with the help of AWS. All the Architectural Windows and energy efficiency for any project. accessibility,” Anthony systems within the AWS range Doors systems comply with all “We would be delighted to show you our Ciavarella are subject to extensive testing for of the bushfire requirements.

AWS product range at our display centre and

“S

energy efficiency, bushfire ratings, kidsafe, acoustics and performance

The AWS range is especially suited for energy efficient buildings. One of

August/September 2019 - Our Goulburn Valley Building a prosperous region together - The Shepparton Adviser

work with you on your next project.”

54

Our Goulburn Valley Infrastructure, Construction & Development

Tackling construction management with new technology “Looking at innovation in the construction industry, it is constantly evolving. There is an increasing amount of automation on site, there are always new products being specified and increasingly our field staff are having to become more computer literate,” explained Mick Ciavarella, managing director at Crow Constructions.

Our large part of our client base CONSTANT EVOLUTION FOR CONSTRUCTION COMPANY… Crow Constructions’ contract administrator, Paul Ciavarella and managing director, Mick Ciavarella peruse some project plans. Photo: Ash Beks. are government contracts business has and they are requiring greater a policy of using transparency in every aspect of how that are local to the project where his degree in construction management and subcontractors that are a project is managed and accounted we can. It makes good sense has now returned to work in the company. for. This has resulted in all record and is extremely interesting Low interest rates have also opened up more work in local to the project keeping occurring on a centralised watching their progression as the region. “We see a lot of new projects on the horizon. where we can,” construction management software they grow along side of you. It is There are a number of government funded projects in Mick Ciavarella system for some Government projects.” the same reason we support a lot of the pipeline, there are schools being planned and aged Crow Constructions has several local sporting clubs,” Mick added. care is a big component of our business,” Mick said. projects currently on the go including Crow Constructions has been in Crow Constructions operate primarily as the Powercor Depot, a $5 million project and business for 30 years while Mick took contractors, working to tenders or offering a design construction management contract in Shepparton. the company over some 13 years ago. His son, construct option, again working with local architects “Our business has a policy of using subcontractors Paul Ciavarella had been in Melbourne finishing to meet client demands and requirements.

“A

August/September 2019 - Our Goulburn Valley Building a prosperous region together - The Shepparton Adviser

GV Health is currently undergoing a $172 million re-development delivering much needed expanded facilities for our community.

As a result we need to increase our staff numbers and specialised positions. Approximately 500 additional staff will be required by the end of the re-development in 2021 that includes doctors, midwives and nursing, medical officers including consultants and junior medical officers, allied health staff, medical imaging staff and support staff.

A R CAR E IN HE L COUL U YOU

To register your interest in future roles visit gvhealth.org.au

A REER R E EALTH L LD BE URS U

A career at GV Health offers a challenging and rewarding experience in a regional setting with low commute times, affordable house prices, fantastic events, sporting facilities and booming infrastructure.

Graham Street, Shepparton P 03 5832 2322 | E enquiry@gvhealth.org.au Like us on

58

Our Goulburn Valley Infrastructure, Construction & Development

Expansion on track to be completed by the end of 2020 Redevelopment is well underway on the $172 million expansion for GV Health.

T

he works include the expansion of the emergency department from 18 treatment bays to 36, a new dialysis unit, as well as refurbishing some of the existing space. Construction of the five-storey tower has begun, with the last slab of concrete poured late June. The tower will consist of an Intensive Care Unit/ Coronary Care Unit, four new theatres, midwifery and paediatrics wards, a new kitchen and mortuary.

WORKS UNDERWAY ON HOSPITAL EXPANSION... GV Health executive director of infrastructure, We currently Sandy Chamberlin, at Shepparton’s GV Health site. Photo: Katelyn Morse.

GV Health executive director of have around 120 infrastructure, Sandy Chamberlin, said that works were all on track to local businesses working on this huge project. We currently people from local be completed by the end of 2020. have around 120 people from local subcontractors on site, subcontractors on site, “Our dialysis unit is due to be which will grow to almost 200 during the construction.” which will grow to completed by October this year Sandy Chamberlin explained, “It’s a very complex almost 200 during the and will be up and running in project as we have to keep the hospital running November. The extension of the whilst all this construction is going on, but it’ll construction.” Sandy emergency department is looking to be wonderful when it’s all completed!”

Chamberlin be finished by the end of the year as GV Health have also been busy working on other projects new treatment bays in well, which will be a much bigger space.” such as Waranga Health in Rushworth, which is now completed. emergency department “It has also been important for us to have

18

60

Our Goulburn Valley Infrastructure, Construction & Development

A buoyant market supports strong growth with real estate agent According to billionaire American real estate investor, David Lichtenstein, “Perhaps the secret to making a billion dollars in real estate is that there is no secret.”

P

roperty in the Goulburn Valley has been strengthening over the last couple of years according to director of Gagliardi Scott Real Estate, Rocky Gagliardi.

“There is a lot more employment, the economy is buoyant and WATCHING THE PROPERTY MARKET GROW… Gagliardi Scott Real Estate’s director, Some of the bigger Rocky Gagliardi at the Shepparton Industrial Park. Photo: Katelyn Morse. low interest rates are the construction projects new normal. We have a lot more estates coming on Projections for the future the rail line might change that,” Rocky said. happening in Shepparton the market and some of the are good. According to Your The strength of the market has seen Gagliardi Scott are creating a lot of work bigger construction projects Investment Property reports, Real Estate grow over the three years they have for suppliers and trades,” happening in Shepparton properties in the Goulburn Valley been open. Now with a staff of 17, the company will Rocky Gagliardi are creating a lot of work for are holding their places well continue to build on the strength of the market. suppliers and trades,” Rocky said. when compared with the rest of In Rocky’s view, over the next few years, “While the market for Victoria, including metro areas. the population of Shepparton will grow which residential property is doing well, “The limitations in the will create a continued demand for new retail properties are not. However, market are the lack of public developments to be opened in the region. industrial is good but there is a lack infrastructure, particularly access to of available sheds for sale or lease.” the metro area. The proposed upgrades to

August/September 2019 - Our Goulburn Valley Building a prosperous region together - The Shepparton Adviser

62

Our Goulburn Valley Infrastructure, Construction & Development

Crane company expands as the Goulburn Valley expands The construction boom the Goulburn Valley has experienced over the last couple of years has helped many businesses to expand, including local crane company Quicklift Crane Hire.

E

stablished with 1 crane in 1998 by Jarrod & Karli Sutherland, Quicklift Crane Hire now has a fleet of 25 cranes ranging Our growth in lifting capacity from 2.5 to 220 tonne, employing 65 staff. has come from “Karli and I began the business servicing our customers in 1998 with just one crane needs. Our focus on GROUP EFFORT… From left, the team at Quicklift, Reece Humphrey, Wayne Burrell, Jarrod and gradually added more Sutherland, Rod Sutherland, Karli Sutherland, Jai Morrison, Karen Goodwin, Jenny Pati, safety, having a wide range equipment. We bought Owen Murdoch, Josh Walter, Gary Gerada and Adam Bostan. Photo: Sharelle Jarvis.

Shepparton Mobile Cranes of equipment with skilled in 2008 and combined the These lift plans are created using special software allowing operators and the ability to 2 companies,” said Jarrod. us to create a 3D image of the job site showing the crane supply at short notice, are “Our growth has come and load and calculate the forces involved in the lift. important aspects of from servicing our customers Quicklift Crane Hire work across many industries from needs. Our focus on safety, their Shepparton and Benalla depots. A lot of their work is in our service,” Jarrod having a wide range of equipment construction but they also service factories, quarries, electricity Sutherland with skilled operators and the distribution, housing, primary production and manufacturing. ability to supply at short notice, are “There has been more construction work in the area cranes ranging from important aspects of our service.” than I have ever seen before,” said Jarrod.

2.5 to 220 tonne Many of the major contractors The construction boom in the area has been great require us to supply lift plans prior to the job to ensure but we are now starting to prepare for the next stage adequate safety margins are maintained during the lifts. where work loads return to a normal level.”

25

August/September 2019 - Our Goulburn Valley Building a prosperous region together - The Shepparton Adviser

Our Goulburn Valley Infrastructure, Construction & Development

63

64

Our Goulburn Valley Infrastructure, Construction & Development

State of the art manufacture of steel building products Opening in Shepparton in 1988, the Steeline business has grown to employ over 20 local Goulburn Valley residents.

Led by Travis Ryan, they have a sales and administration team, production and transport team and three full time roofing contracting teams.

“H

aving our own contracting teams gives the opportunity for young apprentices to develop their skills along the path to becoming fully qualified roof No matter plumbers. We have a very proud where you look in history of ensuring all the young the district you will see locals we take on as apprentices Steeline products going become the districts finest STEEL SPECIALISTS… From left, roll formers, Calvin Gleeson and Tim Raleigh are part of the local tradespeople,” said Travis. into the houses, into the team manufacturing quality products from the Shepparton Steeline site. Photo: Sharelle Jarvis.

The Steeline brand has schools, retirement villages, grown to over 30 locations flashings, purlins and fencing. into the houses, into the schools, retirement villages, commercial and industrial around Australia and are all “The fact that we manufacture commercial and industrial buildings, farm sheds buildings, farm sheds locally owned businesses the product onsite here in and garages being built not just by local fabricators specialising in servicing their Shepparton means we can be and builders, but owner-builders as well.” and garages,” local community and surrounds. flexible and work with you to find The team at Steeline can custom design your Travis Ryan “Using only Australian made the right solution regardless of the new shed or garage. Go in and sit down with BlueScope Steel, we locally manufacture project requirements,” added Travis. the team and jointly create your own project and distribute quality roofing, wall “No matter where you look in the to the shape, size and colour you want. cladding, gutters, metal fascia, ridging, valleys, district, you will see Steeline products going

Our Goulburn Valley Infrastructure, Construction & Development

65

Sourcing new technology for the construction sector The construction industry in Australia is one area that has undergone substantial change due to the innovation and development of new systems and materials. Having access to them enables builders across the nation to be more competitive.

S

ince the business was first established 125 years ago, the Bowens group have been instrumental in making new technology available to builders and tradesmen for that long.

We have EXTENSIVE RANGE, EXPERT SERVICE… From left, Bowens Shepparton branch manager, Darren Chapple and hardware buyer/sales, Daniel Chapple. Photo: Sharelle Jarvis.

“We see our business model as 15 branches servicing builders and tradesmen throughout rather than just the handyman the innovative Dincel concrete adjustable steel stumps, bearers and joists.

Melbourne and in market,” said Bowens Shepparton construction system, a rapid Serving their client needs, Bowens have a team Manager, Darren Chapple. “We have formwork system that enables of 15 staff with four trucks and 2 utes delivering to regional Victoria to the widest range of timber products, waterproof and fireproof construction jobs around the region. “We have back up supply,” all the strength grades and timber construction of concrete walls. “It 15 branches throughout Melbourne and in regional Darren Chapple types a builder might get specified. is a snap together system that is Victoria to back up supply,” said Darren.

“Our product range also includes much quicker to put together than Bowens big projects this year are the Sebel Hotel items like specialty timbers, composite conventional formwork,” added Darren. and apartment complex in Yarrawonga as well as other materials, timber trusses and frames.”

Bowens also handle the Spantek large commercial projects throughout the region.

Included in their extensive product range is steel flooring system, a unique system of

GOOD PEOPLE | GREAT RESULTS

CELEBRATING THREE YEARS AS THE LEADING TEAM GSRE have experienced a really strong 12 months, lead by directors, Rocky and Gerald, who have one of the highest median sold price ($361k & $294k) compared to the industry average of $273k and boast the lowest days on the market (25 days & 15 days) respectively within the Shepparton area compared to average of 75 days.

Both agents agree the high selling price and low days on the market come down to a combination of quality marketing campaigns, presentation and photography and our strong personal relationships with buyers within our data base.

Along with our expert knowledge of the current market trends we utilise this information to help our Vendors achieve asking price or higher.

$361k 25 days

75 days

$294k

$273k 15 days

11 Edgewater Road, Kialla

PROPERTY MANAGEMENT What do you look for in a Property Management team?

An agency with proven Property Managers.

An agency with a reputation that precedes them.

An agency that knows the Goulburn Valley better than anyone.

We offer all three.

Our objective, always, is to lease your property promptly, to high calibre tenants, and maximise your rental return. Property management is about people; those who manage your valuable investment, and those who live in it.

We get that.

www.gagliardiscott.com.au

Rocky

Gerald

Average

Sold Price Days on the Market

68

Our Goulburn Valley Infrastructure, Construction & Development

Supporting over 1000 youth to further education and employment With their head office in Shepparton and depots in Bendigo, Wangaratta, Wodonga and Echuca, GAME Traffic & Contracting have been providing services to the Goulburn Valley since 1993.

G

AME is highly visible across the Goulburn Valley, due to their distinctive “Big Green Diamond”, but what many don’t know is that GAME has been recognised as one of Australia’s leading, regionally based social enterprises.

Being a social enterprise means that GAME is Our able to offer their customers access to a quality, customers purchase compliant, commercially competitive service, whilst also providing them an opportunity GAME’s services and LONG-TERM IMPACT… From left, GAME traffic controller, Samet Uruz and traffic controller and health & safety representative, Keith Marr. Photo: Supplied. to be part of something much bigger... in turn we contribute to making a positive long-term social impact, improving the educational in the Goulburn Valley and beyond!

GAME’s CEO, Craig Marshall said, “The and employment outcomes Geared4Careers is GAME’s flagship benefits of social procurement are clearly employment program, fully funded illustrated by GAME’s business model. for youth in the region, who through GAME’s commercial activities.

Our customers purchase GAME’s services then become the future The program is embedded in local and in turn we contribute to improving the employees for local secondary schools and is assisting youth, in educational and employment outcomes businesses,” Craig the region, to remain engaged in school and for youth in the region, who then become transition to further education or employment. the future employees for local businesses. We Marshall Geared4Careers Commencing in 2011, with only 30 students, are playing an important role in strengthening youth supported Geared4Careers now supports 1026 youth, from the whole community for future generations.” all backgrounds, in 15 regional secondary schools.

1026

Total number of non-residential building approvals: $314.2M

19% 6%

67%

Greater Shepparton: $211.5M Moira Shire: $24.9M Strathbogie Shire: $18.4M

8%

August/September 2019 - Our Goulburn Valley Building a prosperous region together - The Shepparton Adviser

Campaspe Shire: $59.4M

Our Goulburn Valley Infrastructure, Construction & Development

69

Consulting firm takes to the sky for survey work The world of construction is almost as old as man himself. Measuring the transition from forming basic shelters to building complex structures almost requires a leap into the imagination of the impossible.

W

hile the construction needs of the PLANNING THE WAY FORWARD… From left, CAF Consulting project manager, Glenn Boyd and structural engineer, Aaron Poole. Photo: Katelyn Morse.

Goulburn Valley may not warrant the impossible, bringing together a team that works at the boundaries plus staff and is recruiting more and program it into machine guidance GPS files CAF Consulting of the possible gives CAF to fill new roles within their that grade the site to design,” Leigh said.

Consulting a certain edge. construction management team.

“With our design work we are now able to walk now employs 30 plus Managing director, Leigh “Technology is playing a big a client through a 3D image in virtual reality of staff and is recruiting Findlay said, “Business is good, role in improving our service and a building or site layout which gives them the more to fill new roles these last few years have been price competitiveness. We were opportunity to understand how the work space will within their construction the best it has ever been. As a the first survey company in the function before we commit to any site works.“ company, as we move forward, region to be formally licensed For a company that began with Leigh’s father management team,” we are looking to be a single to do aerial survey where our Col doing irrigation design, to a company that Leigh Findlay point of contact for a client UAV planes and copters can map is involved in managing major construction offering planning, design, surveying, out 3D images that are within a few projects within the Goulburn Valley, the engineering and project management.” millimetres. We can take these 3D way forward is looking even better.

CAF Consulting now employs 30 images, design a piece of infrastructure

The Shepparton Adviser - Our Goulburn Valley Building a prosperous region together - August/September 2019

BOOST IN LOCAL PROPERTY CONFIDENCE… From left, Kevin Hicks Real Estate sales/ subdivisions manager, Terry Shiels and director, Kevin Hicks. Photo: Supplied.

Property an attractive investment in Shepparton Property in general in the Shepparton region has gone through an extended flat period, particularly in the last 10 years or so.

industrial property. The successful business with outlets in Shepparton and Numurkah sees significant change in the farming sector. “We are seeing growth in horticulture and a trend from dairy to beef, lamb and fodder production. It’s a commodity driven change; 10 years ago you didn’t see esidential property had flat-lined and lamb, beef or fodder,” Kevin said. commercial property had dropped “Water, or the price of water, considerably from the heady days of has driven this change and it’s the 1980s, 1990s and early 2000s. happened in a short space of time.

How times have changed.

“Some parts of the Goulburn Valley have Local real estate agent, Kevin Hicks, of the benefit of aqua flows where water can Kevin Hicks Real Estate is very upbeat be accessed via a ‘deep lead’. Some of about the Shepparton region. the areas of farming that enjoy “We haven’t seen the aqua flows include Katunga, large gains in residential Nathalia, through to value Melbourne has Cobram. Because of Because of the seen, but are now the quality of the quality of the land experiencing 5-6 land and access to and access to water, it’s percent growth water, it’s attracting per annum,” Kevin new investment attracting new investment told Our Goulburn and an increase and an increase Valley magazine. in employment,” in employment,” Kevin Hicks Real Kevin said.

Kevin Hicks Estate specialises Kevin Hicks in residential, land, Real Estate has a farms and commercial/ team of 18 staff.

R

August/September 2019 - Our Goulburn Valley Building a prosperous region together - The Shepparton Adviser

Transport

As the Independent Member for Shepparton District it is a privilege to represent and advocate for our region in State Parliament. Our community made it clear that improved rail services were a priority and so it is exciting to now see this infrastructure development getting underway. Stage one of the Shepparton Corridor Upgrade has seen 10 extra weekly train services delivered between Melbourne and Shepparton, 29 new coach services between Shepparton and Seymour and stabling for additional trains at the Shepparton railway station.

With stage two being funded in last year’s state budget now underway, the total $356 million investment allows for the construction of platform upgrades, 59 level crossing upgrades and a passing loop extension near Murchison East, preparing the system for nine VLocity trains each weekday.

After many years of strong advocacy from our community, we want to see the rollout of stage one of the Shepparton Bypass. The Federal Government has committed over $200 million to the project and the Victorian State Government has said the bypass business case will be delivered by the end of the year. This project will see the removal of heavy vehicles from our CBDs and will revitalise the centres of Mooroopna and Shepparton while also providing an extra river crossing north to the Goulburn Valley Highway.

With this transport infrastructure fully implemented, Shepparton district businesses and our community will continue to thrive and experience the social and economic benefits possible from such investment.

Suzanna Sheed MP, Independent Member for Shepparton

The Shepparton Adviser - Our Goulburn Valley Building a prosperous region together - August/September 2019

72

Our Goulburn Valley Transport

Accounting firm keeps on trucking The days of a business putting all their receipts into a box and heading off to the accountant at the end of the year are long gone. The transport industry has evolved and is very competitive, so being able to make decisions in real time, based on accurate business information, is critical to daily operations.

D

evinder Singh, a director at Plus 1 Group has a decade of experience in the transport sector.

As “We offer a holistic business package a firm, we set that includes business & financial consulting, HR & payroll advice, our client focus on succession planning, refinancing, the transport industry.

DRIVING FINANCIAL ADVICE FOR THE TRANSPORT INDUSTRY… From left, Plus 1 Group directors, investing, leasing and of course Ben Snow, Matt O’Bryan, Karen (Kamaljit) Parhaar and Devinder Singh. Photo: Katelyn Morse.

We have a team of accounting and tax compliance.” accountants who have “As a firm, we set our client significant savings,” Devinder said. making, supported by sound financial advice.” focus on the transport industry.

Ben Snow has been a director With clients Australia-wide across a multitude a depth of knowledge We have a team of accountants with Plus 1 Group since inception. of industries, the barriers to traditional of the industry,” who have a depth of knowledge of “Technology continues to accounting services of distance and time no Devinder Singh, the industry and our methodology change to cloud based solutions, longer exist. As Ben explains, “We can work director of looking at a transport business has so is more accurate and readily with a client in their live file and see the impact helped our clients maximise their fuel tax available,” he said. “We partner with of business decisions on their bottom line.” rebates and performance which can bring our clients and guide them in their decision

74

Our Goulburn Valley Transport

Bobcat profile to lift in the Goulburn Valley A strong plan that has been around for many years is about to get an even greater boost with local firm L&P Mackin Forklifts to become the official service, repairs and spares outlet for Bobcat.

T

he successful forklift business founded by Leigh and Pauline Our growth Mackin in the 1970s is now being is a reflection of the run by their son, Jarrod. service we provide. When It seems a natural fit to provide a service for Bobcat, which our customers breakdown is part of the Clark Forklift region, Bobcat Shepparton in the field, they want a quick stable, also represented is shaping up well to service response time from us. We

by L&P Mackin Forklifts. the strong brand. make it a priority to get L&P Mackin Forklifts have a Bobcat’s skidsteers, mini large fleet of forklifts out on hire to eight tonne excavators someone to the customer with agricultural and industrial and the larger telehandlers as soon as possible,” firms throughout a 100km radius will now be serviced, repaired Jarrod Mackin of Shepparton. They also provide and backed up with spare parts. a mobile servicing operation.

Bobcat equipment will With the ever-growing manufacturing, also be available for hire. industrial and intensive agriculture activity in the “Our growth is a reflection of the service we

OUT IN THE FIELD… From left, L&P Mackin Forklifts owner, Jarrod Mackin and technician, Matt Mol. Photo: Sharelle Jarvis.

provide. When our customers breakdown in the field, they want a quick response time from us. We make it a priority to get someone to the customer as soon as possible. If we can reduce their down-time it is cost effective to call us out,” Jarrod Mackin said.

A major benefit for anyone requiring Bobcat or forklift service is the team of nine technicians in the workshop and out in the field.

Bobcat Shepparton and L&P Mackin Forklifts is another one of the many success stories in the Goulburn Valley.

76

Our Goulburn Valley Transport

Keeping ahead of trucking technology In the mid nineties, Don Dimstas put all his tools into his Datsun ute and backed by his wife Sharon, set out on a business adventure as a diesel mechanic.

25 years later they employ a team of seven technicians and four in the office at their newly expanded factory in Gemini Crescent, Shepparton.

“T

he industry has changed dramatically over that time. We use all computer technology now, it is no longer simply READY TO KEEP ON TRUCKING... D & S Truck Repairs’ Don Dimstas and Sharon Dimstas in their busy workshop. Photo: Katelyn Morse. being a diesel mechanic,” Don said.

The industry “Since 2002, we have been agents for has changed Volvo and Hino with the CMV group to know how to work with that. schedule, we were servicing school dramatically over that as agents for Mack and Volvo since “I can see a future where a truck buses last week, this week we have time. We use all computer 2015, so we are backed-up by their will break down on the highway half a dozen trucks in the bays.” $50 million technical facility. They and we will be able to log on and With transport being such a technology now, it is no provide us with all of the training put in the engine number and key industry in the Goulburn longer simply being a we need in doing the diagnostics communicate directly with the Valley, D & S Truck Repairs will diesel mechanic,” and maintenance. Engines are engine and sort out the problems have their maintenance and no longer simple machines, they autonomously,” Don said. repair work cut out for them Don Dimstas. staff employed are controlled by the electronics and Don still gets into his overalls in the for many years to come. computer technology and our staff have workshop with the team. “We have a busy locally

11

$140.479M The total value of regional exports through the transport industry in the Goulburn Valley

19% 58% 11% 11%

August/September 2019 - Our Goulburn Valley Building a prosperous region together - The Shepparton Adviser

Greater Shepparton: $82.100M Moira Shire: $15.799M Strathbogie Shire: $15.201M Campaspe Shire: $27.379M

78

Our Goulburn Valley Transport

Diversifying allows trucking company to grow It is with a sense of reality that people say truckers move the nation. The Goulburn Valley is a hive of activity in agriculture and manufacturing and with a growing population that needs to be supplied, it needs a lot of trucking to keep that impetus moving.

We perating from their head office DRIVING AND THRIVING… From left, Leocata’s Transport general manager, David Bassett, directors, Joe and Sharon Leocata and their sons, Adrian and Marcus Leocata. Photo: Sharelle Jarvis. and depot in Tatura, leading employ different transport company, Leocata’s strategies such as Transport plays a pivotal role range of our client base.” how we operate,” said Marcus Leocata. “Trucks mass management and in serving the needs of the “We employ different strategies are now computer managed and we manage their maintenance management community in which it resides. such as mass management and positioning with GPS so we can tell a customer “Our business is growing. maintenance management to when a delivery is pending. We are looking to to give our customers best We have 36 trucks on the road give our customers best value for get more technology into the trucks over the value for their money,” and have just added four new their money,” added Joe Leocata. next 18 months in order to reduce the amount of Joe Leocata DAF prime movers to the fleet,” Along with the main depot, documentation some of our clients require.” said Sharon Leocata who with the company also owns depots in As the Goulburn Valley grows, companies her husband Joe Leocata, own the Nagambie and Altona Nth and has like Leocata’s Transport will prosper and trucking business. “That comes down to depots in Sydney, Brisbane and Adelaide. continue to support the industry in the diversifying our business and increasing the “Technology is playing a bigger part in region it serves to grow as well.

O

Growing, packing and transporting the fruits of our region Geoffrey Thompson Fruit Packing is a vertically integrated apple and pear grower, packer, and supplier to Australia and the international market. The success of the company has been greatly aided by its location in Shepparton, in the heart of the Goulburn Valley.

By Peter Thompson. ocated on the Goulburn River irrigation scheme, the company’s orchards enjoy secure access to water – an essential element for our orcharding operations. The Goulburn Valley also provides a ready supply of local, contract and backpacker labour, as well as excellent land available for apple and pear growing.

Shepparton’s position allows us to easily ship daily to Melbourne and Sydney supermarkets, and Brisbane and Adelaide transport options available. Access to the Port of Melbourne is also readily available.

World-class agricultural consultants, chemical suppliers and carton manufacturers are all readily available, and with the outskirts of Melbourne only two hours away, there is nothing that can’t be obtained quickly.

We are optimistic about our company’s future and the Goulburn Valley’s future because of the export opportunities for our products made available from our location in the Goulburn Valley.

L

August/September 2019 - Our Goulburn Valley Building a prosperous region together - The Shepparton Adviser

INVESTING IN FRUIT… Geoffrey Thompson Fruit Packing director, Peter Thompson says the success of his company has been greatly aided by it’s location in the heart of the Goulburn Valley. Photo: Supplied.

80

Our Goulburn Valley Transport

Recycle firm diverts 200,000 tonnes from landfill From small beginnings in Shepparton to one of the leading recycling businesses in Australia, Future Recycling (previously Future Metals) focuses on a more sustainable and efficient way of recycling.

F

uture Recycling recently opened a new multimillion-dollar transfer facility in Pakenham, constructed in partnership with Sustainability Victoria and the Victorian State Government as part of the $35 million Resource Recovery Infrastructure Fund. This new facility was Every year, we specifically designed with a divert over 200,000 tonnes THE FUTURE OF RECYCLING… From left, Future Recycling managing director, focus on maximising resource Tyrone Landsman and Shepparton branch manager, Justin Spokes at their of product from landfill Shepparton site on Old Dookie Road. Photo: Katelyn Morse. recovery and recycling. across Victoria by utilising 30 With the introduction of this site, this enables help from 70 employees, Carbon Neutral, which means they are working collection vehicles across our Future Recycling to divert nine of which are at our to firstly reduce and secondly offset all carbon four sites, with help from 70 an estimated 70 percent Shepparton site.” emissions. Current initiatives include going paperless employees, nine of which are of waste delivered to their Over the past four years, in trucks and in the offices in the near future. at our Shepparton site,” sites away from landfill.

Future Recycling have been Future Recycling is also doing their part within Future Recycling managing monitoring their carbon the community, with the Shepparton site collecting Tyrone Landsman director, Tyrone Landsman footprint in regards to the used car batteries in partnership with local man, explained, “Every year, we divert vehicles they purchase and the Paul Archer, with proceeds from the recycled over 200,000 tonnes of product waste they produce. As of last year, batteries going to GV Health’s children’s ward. from landfill across Victoria by utilising Future Recycling were the only Australian 30 collection vehicles across our four sites, with waste management company to be Certified

Free trade agreement strengthens local business There’s no denying that the Goulburn Valley is the ‘food bowl’ of Australia, utilising our spectacular weather, water and ground conditions to help produce and supply food to a lot of the nation.

T

hroughout this edition of Our billion in 2017, up from $6.6 billion in Goulburn Valley magazine, 2011. Australia is currently China’s sixth you will notice several companies largest trading partner, with two-way explaining the business benefits that trade valued at over $183 billion in 2017, have arisen from export since the accounting for 24 percent of total trade. introduction of the China-Australia Recently, China’s demand for highFree Trade Agreement (FTA) in 2015. quality agriculture and food products In the past, the absence of a bilateral has been growing rapidly, driven by FTA with China meant Australian an expanding middle class. Locally, producers and exporters faced many businesses within the region significant tariffs on agricultural have already been benefiting from products, and we were at a competitive the elimination of tariffs, with several disadvantage to countries that already tariffs already lifted in the dairy, pork, had a FTA with China, including New horticulture, wine and spirits, seafood Zealand, Chile and the Association and processed foods industries. of Southeast Asian Nations.

For example, China’s The new FTA established market for Australian Australia between Australia and horticultural products is currently China sets to address has been rapidly this issue and also growing since 2010, China’s sixth largest give Australia with exports worth trading partner, with a significant $412 million in 2017 two-way trade valued advantage over – up from only $13 other larger players million in 2010. This at over $183 billion in in the export market, growth has occurred 2017, accounting for such as the US, even despite China 24 percent of total Europe and Canada. applying some of trade.

China is Australia’s the highest tariffs on largest agriculture, horticulture products. forestry and fisheries export Now, thanks to the FTA, market, worth an estimated $13.5 several tariffs have been raised

EXPORTS PICKING UP… Australia is currently China’s sixth largest trading partner and thanks to the 2010 Free Trade Agreement, many Goulburn Valley businesses are benefitting from export, particularly our fruit sector. Photo: Supplied.

from this sector, including: elimination of the 10 to 25 percent tariff on macadamia nuts, almonds, walnuts, pistachios and all other nuts by January 1, 2019; elimination of the 11 to 30 percent tariff on oranges, mandarins, lemons and all other citrus fruits by January 1, 2023; elimination of the 10 to 30 percent tariff on all other fruit (including pear, apple and stone fruit)

by January 1, 2019; and elimination of the 10 to 30 percent tariff on all fresh vegetables by January 1, 2019.

Similar eliminations to tariffs

August/September 2019 - Our Goulburn Valley Building a prosperous region together - The Shepparton Adviser

have occurred across many other industries, with plenty more tariffs due to be lifted in the next 20 years.

These changes have greatly impacted the region beneficially and will only continue to increase as further tariffs are lifted. Australia’s geographical closeness with China shall also benefit exports greatly, and with whispers of the future development of a straight-to-China freight airport being developed in the Goulburn Valley, expect this exciting export sector to only expand further.

82

Our Goulburn Valley Transport

Racing towards an exciting future for the region Situated within the Emerald Bank precinct at the southern gateway to the Goulburn Valley, MOVE Shepparton will build on the success of the Shepparton Motor Museum. The Museum of Vehicle Evolution (MOVE) is START YOUR ENGINES… Recently appointed Shepparton Motor Museum curator, Shaun Lennard invites the Greater an innovative and ambitious community to get excited about Shepparton’s $6.25 million Museum of Vehicle Evolution. Photo: Katelyn Morse.

Shepparton is a project that celebrates the interactive learning experience Construction for MOVE is set to commence region of significant role that transportation, where visitors can learn in October, with the building phase predicted economic and social motoring and trucking about the vital role motoring to take about six months to complete. importance to the state and and transport has made As exciting as the new MOVE is, we can’t have played in shaping in the development of the forget the current Shepparton Motor Museum is a natural hub for road our way of life and Goulburn Valley and our and Collectibles. Shepparton has a long history transport with nearly one-inthe characters and impressive local history as of driving; it is the home of the original Driver four of all Victorian trucks leading global producers.

Education Centre Australia (DECA), is a major industries that have MOVE is anticipated to have Australian transport hub carrying the produce of registered here,” been part of this journey. an annual economic output of the region throughout the country and has one of Cr Kim O’Keeffe

T

he $6.25 million museum will expand on the current Shepparton Motor Museum footprint, with an extra 10,000 square metres of exhibition space to showcase curated displays of transport-related vehicles and memorabilia, providing a chance to boast about the important local history of truck transport in the food bowl, plus much more.

MOVE harnesses several of Shepparton’s key strengths, including community fundraising, solar power, driver education, transport history and events. The innovative new project will combine heritage, social history and technology to create an engaging visitor experience.

The objective of the museum will be to create an

$5.7 million from the increased visitation and is anticipated to have a total economic impact of $13.1 million on the Greater Shepparton region during construction, supporting 14 jobs directly and 21 indirect jobs during construction.

Greater Shepparton City Council Mayor, Cr Kim O’Keeffe said council was proud to support MOVE. “Greater Shepparton is a region of significant economic and social importance to the state and is a natural hub for road transport with nearly onein-four of all Victorian trucks registered here.”

“The need to transport the premium produce of the region to the markets of the world has meant that Shepparton has flourished through transportation.”

Clockwise from top left: BIG RED LIFESAVER… A 1937 Dodge fire truck that was used by the Shepparton Fire Brigade until 1962.

HISTORICAL VEHICLES… Used by the Victorian police, this 1966 Kawasaki motorbike is one of many vehicles with historical significance currently on display at the Shepparton Motor Museum. IMPORTANT LOCAL HISTORY… Made in the 1880s and possibly one of only 30, this Furphy Bow Wagon was used to cart materials around the Furphy factory. Photos: Katelyn Morse.

August/September 2019 - Our Goulburn Valley Building a prosperous region together - The Shepparton Adviser

Australia’s highest levels of collector car ownership.

The Shepparton Motor Museum is home to up to 100 classic, heritage and muscle cars including motorcycles and vintage bicycles, and is always changing and growing to preserve our motoring history for future generations.

Every vehicle in the museum has been generously loaned or donated from not only Shepparton and the Goulburn Valley, but also all across Victoria and Australia.

Also on display within the museum is The Furphy Museum. The Furphy Museum is the only one of its kind and showcases the 150 year journey of Furphy engineering, the five generations of the Furphy family and the significance of the Furphy legend in our history.

Education & the Arts

Creativity is for everyone.

Some say they don’t like art, others say they don’t see any value in it and some are outright against art, writing it off as a futile endeavour. But what we may not realise is that the TV show we’re obsessed with, or our favourite song, Gran’s wedding picture hanging in the hallway, and even this publication you’re currently reading were all developed, produced, and made by a creative person, and is a form of art.

My hope for a creative future is to facilitate the growth and development of all creatives but more than anything provide opportunities for the next generation to see the arts as a real avenue as a career and way of life.

The most effective way to facilitate this is to lead by example through the promotion of a wide range of artistic formats, which are made accessible to the widest possible range of demographics in our community.

By providing this option, people with no previous exposure to arts and culture can have the opportunity to find enjoyment through immersing themselves in creative pursuits.

Just like for me when I was a teenager, this was life changing.

I will always be grateful for the opportunities I have had and will continue to access here in regional Victoria and I look forward to my children shining brightly no matter what passion they choose to follow. I mean, not cricket, but I guess I could handle football.

Jamie Lea, creative director of Shepparton Festival

The Shepparton Adviser - Our Goulburn Valley Building a prosperous region together - August/September 2019

86

Our Goulburn Valley Education & the Arts

Research expansion to help employment Looking towards the future of the region, the new head of La Trobe University Campus, Elizabeth Capp, seeks to focus on what the community needs and to be able to teach the students what it is they want to learn.

W

ithin the Goulburn Valley Our five NEW HEAD, NEW DIRECTION… Head of La Trobe University Shepparton campus, Elizabeth region, demand for qualified Capp looks forward to serving the needs of the community. Photo: Katelyn Morse. main areas of learning graduates is growing faster are nursing, social work, than the capacity to train capacity within the campus. and arts. We want to expand on our arts program them. With that, the federal We have just recently had offerings and we are planning to introduce crime, education for early childhood government is providing a our first doctoral graduates justice and legal studies subjects in the coming year. and primary school level, grant of $5 million, which, and we have more coming “We are also keen to ensure our multicultural business and arts. We want to along with $7 million from La through. Expanding our communities are well served by our programs, Trobe University, will be used research activities will and to build more pathways to degree expand on our arts program to construct a new extension support us to expand programs for indigenous student cohorts.” offerings and we are planning to the building. This will our reach with nursing Elizabeth Capp has now been the head of to introduce crime, justice provide more learning and and social work across the campus since last November with a background in and legal studies subjects student space to the campus. region,” Elizabeth Capp said. education management at Melbourne University.

“With an expanded clinical “Our five main areas of Since 2006, she has been involved with ASHE in the coming year,” facility we might be able to catch learning are nursing, social work, and the university campus at Dookie and has Elizabeth Capp up with the demand for nurses. My education for early childhood established a strong connection to the region. aim is also to provide a greater research and primary school level, business

Indigenous centre looks to empower a national voice in policy development The mobilisation of social groups within society often has to break down boundaries that separate those groups before that movement can take place.

W

ithin the Australian context, eight Indigenous groups across the country have come together with a proposal to advance Indigenous empowerment through reform in the manner in which policies and programs pertaining to those groups are SUPPORT IN THE COMMUNITY… From left, Dungala Kaiela research fellows, The Kaiela Karyn Ferguson and Tui Crumpen. Photo: Sharelle Jarvis. designed and delivered.

Institute provides The Goulburn Murray group the space to develop is provided representation develop leadership and also Another research fellow, Tui Crumpen is looking at through the Kaiela Institute. engage and interact with local, national Indigenous representative assemblies and leadership and also At the Kaiela Institute, looking state and national leadership,” their roles in policy formulation. “Being a part of the engage and interact into some of the varying issues said research fellow, Karyn negotiations with state and federal governments with local, state and that define the boundaries and Ferguson. “The area I am working can lead to an improvement in the economic and national leadership,” how they affect empowerment, on is establishing a data set which education position of Indigenous people,” Tui said. are a number of research fellows accurately describes, measures and The Kaiela Institute, like the Koori Resource Karyn Ferguson in the process of completing tracks Indigenous maternal, infant and and Information Centre that preceded it, is an their PhDs through the University child health outcomes of our region. Trial organisation that invests in the community to of Melbourne, Faculty of Medicine. data so far indicates a significant undercount support leadership to question, re-think and act.

“The Kaiela Institute provides the space to in Indigenous identification in health data sets.”

August/September 2019 - Our Goulburn Valley Building a prosperous region together - The Shepparton Adviser

88

Our Goulburn Valley Education & the Arts

Prioritising culture, education and wellbeing To ensure future success of the Goulburn Valley we need to make every effort to provide opportunities for all young people to complete their education, regardless of their personal circumstances or cultural background.

S

ince they were established in 2004, The Academy of Health, Sport and Education (ASHE) has trained and supported over 1500 Aboriginal We eventually and non-Aboriginal students.

Last year, 101 students were want to cater for every CATERING FOR ALL STUDENTS… Clockwise from left, ASHE student, Altaya Atkinson, employment enrolled at ASHE, with 56 student, whether they advisor, Rob Briggs, student, Sarah Collins, student, Jeremiah Stewart, student, Alkira Power, nursing percent of those going student support, Amanda Firebrace and student, Nickee Miller at the ASHE Open Day. Photo: Supplied. want to do arts or science or onto further studies. a trade; we just want to give Recently, the Andrews of this exciting space will for Aboriginal Victorians across the board – Government has proposed begin in 2020 and will also including in health, education and employment.” every student the skills and $23 million to go towards be the new home of ASHE, Director of ASHE, Leonie Dwyer explained, “Here knowledge they’ll need to the construction of the and include accommodation at ASHE we prioritise culture and health as well as further their education and state-of-the-art Munarra and more programs and education as they’re just as important for our students. themselves in the future,” Centre for Regional Excellence courses on offer for students.

“We eventually want to cater for every student, in Shepparton, establishing Minister for Aboriginal whether they want to do arts or science or a Leonie Dwyer a new educational, sporting, Affairs, Natalie Hutchins said, trade; we just want to give every student the cultural and community centre for “As a result of projects like skills and knowledge they’ll need to further their local Aboriginal people. Construction Munarra we’ll see better outcomes education and themselves in the future.”

New museum set to expand horizons Construction has commenced on Shepparton’s exciting new Shepparton Art Museum (SAM), with foundations laid and a constant flurry of activity taking place around the site.

T

he new $47 million state-of-the-art museum is set to be completed by 2020 and will be a driving force for tourism and businesses in the region once it is completed.

The building itself has been designed by internationally renowned architects, Denton Corker Marshall, and will be a five-storey, 33m x 33m cube-like form located on the south-eastern corner of Victoria Park Lake.

Building on the great collection already in possession of SAM and incredible community of Indigenous artists and organisations WORLD-CLASS MUSEUM FOR COMMUNITY… Works on the new SAM site are currently underway, with It’s not a constant flurry of activity in the lead up to the expected 2020 completion. Photo: Katelyn Morse. within the Goulburn Valley, the gallery itself will feature the largest collection just going to be of Aboriginal artwork in the entire Behind SAM, there is a dedicated is a longstanding supporter of the Greater a gallery, it will be world, attracting national and group of passionate, local accessible Shepparton Community and has been involved a community hub, international visitors to the region. and dedicated group of volunteers in many arts organisations. John is proud of and we are looking SAM is more than just an art working hard for the benefit of the council’s decision to go ahead and is excited gallery. Shepparton Visitors Centre community.

The SAM Foundation to see works commencing on the site. forward to seeing and Kaiela Art Gallery and Studio will Board consists of chair, John “There are a lot of committed people it completed,” relocate to the new museum, providing Head, and directors, Meryl Hill, involved in the project and many who are John Head an exciting entrance for visitors of the Jo-Anne Foster, Adam Furphy, Polly sponsoring the project,” John said. region and helping to strengthen ties to Symons and Drew Pettifer, with each “It’s not just going to be a gallery, it will the rest of the community. There will also be a bringing in strengths from various fields. be a community hub, and we are looking café and event space, with a rooftop viewing deck.

SAM Foundation Board chair, John Head, forward to seeing it completed.”

August/September 2019 - Our Goulburn Valley Building a prosperous region together - The Shepparton Adviser

Employment • Education • Transport

Supporting student cultural needs, knowledge and wellbeing on their journey through personal challenges and education to self confidence and employment.

BRIDGING THE GAP FOR THE NEXT GENERATION ASHE has been a partnership between the University of Melbourne and Rumbalara Football and Netball Club since 2004, working together along with trainer partner, GOTAFE, to provide pathways to further education and employment for young and mature-aged Aboriginal students.

Our services extend over Victoria and into New South Wales, covering transport, accommodation, employment, health and wellbeing and culture.

ASHE ACADEMY OF SPORT HEALTH AND EDUCATION

21 Nixon St, Shepparton Phone (03) 5823 6600 ashe.unimelb.edu.au

Top: from left; staff member, Amanda Firebrace with students, Altaya Atkinson and Sarah Collins.

Below: Alkira Power and Nickee Miller.

• Accommodation • Health & Wellbeing • Culture

WORKING TOGETHER TO EMPOWER YOUNG PEOPLE

90

Our Goulburn Valley Education & the Arts

Setting the standard in agricultural education As recently as the 1950s, Australia’s economy was symbolised to be riding on the sheep’s back. While the ride through the years has been cyclic, once more agriculture is leading the charge in our economic positioning.

such as ours, here in Australia,” said Professor Timothy Reeves.

The Dookie Campus began as a college and experimental farm in 1886. An early college principal, Hugh Pye became globally renowned for his work in wheat breeding and established the campus as an agricultural research facility. Students from the Parkville Campus spend time here seeing and learning an operating farm. n part due to the economic expansion of Asia in general, “Dookie Campus is located within a 2,440 hectare working the demand for clean green food has put pressure on farm, the farm manages cropping of around 1,000 hectares Australia’s agricultural production creating vast of wheat, canola and faba beans. There is a flock opportunities. To maintain that placement, the of around 8,000 merino sheep, we have a adaptation of technology in agriculture has robotic dairy, a small apple orchard, a 270 We are the become critical. Providing access to a larger hectare bush reserve and we have some 500 only campus of the professional workforce to take charge and students through the facility each year.” top 40 universities in exploit that technology, the faculty of said Ros Gall, director of the Campus. the world that can offer Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, at the “For agriculture, business as usual University of Melbourne, Dookie Campus is no longer viable. The industry must a facility such as ours, provides on farm practical experience become more resilient and more here in Australia” to many who may not have had any. sustainable,’” said Professor Reeves.

Professor Timothy “We find that many of our students, With three to four jobs being available around 80%, come here without on-farm for each new graduate, the potential for Reeves experience. We are the only one of the top 40 Dookie graduates to be at the forefront universities in the world that can offer a facility of the agricultural boom increases.

I

August/September 2019 - Our Goulburn Valley Building a prosperous region together - The Shepparton Adviser

FOREFRONT OF THE BOOM… From left, University of Melbourne Dookie Campus director, Roslynne Gall, services manager, Andrew Gooley, professor in residence, Prof Timothy Reeves, lecturer, Dr Surinder Chauhan and PhD student, Pragna Prathap. Photo: Steve Hutcheson.

2,440

500 hectare working farm

students through the facility each year

Hall of Fame Celebrating 25+ years in business

The Shepparton Chamber of Commerce and Industry has played a significant role in recognising businesses in the Shepparton region with its Hall of Fame category in the annual White King – Pental 95.3 Triple M Business Awards.

Each year, the community votes for a business worthy of this coveted award and the winning business is presented at a special business awards gala. The 2019 White King – Pental 95.3 Triple M Business Awards will be taking place on Friday, October 11.

The Shepparton Chamber of Commerce and Industry has a history of advocating for local business.

This is done currently with excellent lines of communication in association with the Greater Shepparton Council, the Shepparton Show Me group, the Committee for Greater Shepparton and Tourism Greater Shepparton.

Working alongside these groups, in particular the council, the chamber has been a voice for the business community in planning of the upgrade of the CBD and the redevelopment of the Maude Street Mall.

The chamber is working to assist businesses to understand the media and how they can use this medium for more business success.

One of the important events for this year is the chambers involvement with the Business Awards, which highlight and award high achievers in business and customer service.

In activating the CBD, the chamber has been involved with Christmas decorations, assisting with financing a carousel in the Mall at Christmas and the very successful Winter FunZone ice skating event in the winter school vacation.

John Anderson president of the Shepparton Chamber of Commerce and Industry

The Shepparton Adviser - Our Goulburn Valley Building a prosperous region together - August/September 2019

92

Our Goulburn Valley Hall of Fame 25+ years in business

MADE WITH LOVE, PASSION AND PERFECTION… Michael and Jo Kearney, proprietors of Purdeys Shepparton and Benalla. Photo: Katelyn Morse.

50 years of beautiful jewellery There are few local businesses fortunate enough to have been part of the Goulburn Valley since 1969.

P

urdeys Jewellers opened its doors for the first time 50 years ago at 244 Wyndham Street, Shepparton and still operates from the same address today.

A family business that has seen three generations at the helm – Frank and Mary Purdey, Stewart and Pam Lynas, and today Jo and Michael Kearney.

Jo says, “Like mum and dad – Michael and I were able to work along side and learn from the previous generation, and without that experience, we wouldn’t be where we are today.”

Frank, a respected watchmaker, who served in the Second World War repairing fighter aircraft instruments on the jungle airstrips of PNG, and his son-in-law Stewart, a qualified gemologist and valuer – built the business on integrity and trust.

Michael – an internationally qualified diamond grader and jewellery designer – says those values have remained front and centre throughout the years, helping Purdeys build a reputation second to none.

“Many in the local community know our story well – hundreds of regular customers, and their families, have been there with Purdeys for half a century – wearing our jewellery with love and pride,” said Michael.

Whether it’s “Whether it’s restoration or restoration or designing designing and manufacturing unique engagement rings – the and manufacturing unique greatest thrill for us is our role engagement rings – the in creating jewellery that will be greatest thrill for us is our with generations to come. role in creating jewellery that “In a small way – we are very lucky to play a part in our will be with generations to customers stories,” said Jo. come.” Michael Kearney Michael and Jo wish to thank Purdeys loyal clientele and wonderful employees for 50 fabulous years.

August/September 2019 - Our Goulburn Valley Building a prosperous region together - The Shepparton Adviser

94

Our Goulburn Valley Hall of Fame 25+ years in business

A LOCAL ICON… Finny’s is celebrating 30 years of local business. From left (back), Finny’s team members, Kerrie Berger, Tara Smith, Shirley Blick, Tina Scali and Darielle Anderson. (Front), owners, Anne and Ray Finn. Photo: Katelyn Morse.

Reminiscing on a great rollercoaster adventure “It’s been a real adventure and a rollercoaster ride, that’s for sure,” Ray Finn said with a smile when we asked to reflect on his 30 years in business here in Shepparton.

R

ay and Anne Finn opened Finny’s in 1989, which has remained a staple of the region ever since. Stocking a huge range of manchester at discount prices, the business has experienced great success locally and has expanded into the Bendigo market with a new store.

Many of the staff at Finny’s have remained employed with the business for many years, as true a reflection of success as any.

“My staff are my business,” Ray said. “And they’re all greatly appreciated by me and Anne for all their hard work.”

Reminiscing on the years in business, Ray remarked, “It’s been lots of hard work and lots of fun. Anne and I have met heaps of really nice people and we’ve been lucky in that a lot of the people we’ve met have eventually become “It’s been lots of our close friends. If they’re visiting hard work and lots of fun. town, they’ll drop in and say g’day Anne and I have met heaps and I’ll invite them in for a coffee.”

The people of Shepparton have of really nice people and helped establish Finny’s into a we’ve been lucky in that a lot successful local brand and Ray is of the people we’ve met have grateful for the support the town eventually become our has offered the business over the years, remarking, “I love the people close friends,” Ray Finn of Shepparton. I love them all.”

August/September 2019 - Our Goulburn Valley Building a prosperous region together - The Shepparton Adviser

96

Our Goulburn Valley Hall of Fame 25+ years in business

Change is the driver for hotel business To stay in business for fifty years requires good business acumen and a rock solid reputation. Business mogul, Warren Buffet is quoted to have Reputation said, “It takes 20 years to matters, hospitality build a reputation and five evolves, some things minutes to ruin it. If you work, some don’t but you think about that, you’ll do cannot be doing the same things differently.” things for ten years in a ccording to Sherbourne row, let alone fifty,” Terrace managing director, Nick Zurcas, “Reputation Nick Zurcas

A

matters, hospitality evolves, some things work, some don’t but you cannot be doing the same things for ten years in a row, let alone fifty.”

The Sherbourne Terrace is now fifty years old. It was in 1978 when Nick’s father, Stan took over the business.

PASSIONATE ABOUT HOSPITALITY.… From left, Sherbourne Terrace receptionist, Stacey Carrafa, function coordinator, Nathan Zurcas, accounts, Matt McDowall, managing director, Nick Zurcas, hotel manager, Tom Adem and duty manager, Mathew Zurcas. Photo: Katelyn Morse.

“In those days, we might have had eight items on the menu; now we have nearly 50. It is the same in the bar, that used to be men only and we had only three types of beer.”

“We have always had accommodation but even that has changed, now almost all our bookings are made online. As we move forward, I can see service being less hands on. Smart phones for instance

will take on a bigger role in service delivery.

“Some years ago, our market was driven towards 18 to 30 year olds, now it is right across the spectrum.

“Older people come for a meal and perhaps some gaming entertainment, families come to the restaurant and our regulars come to meet up in the bar.”

But the Sherbourne Terrace is a family firm, some things don’t change. Nick’s sons now work for the business and some of the staff have been working for the business for almost all the time the family has owned it.

Tourism driving future prosperity A

ccording to Tourism Australia, tourism is growing at a rate three times faster than the national economy. Globally, Australia ranks first for visitor spend per trip, with tourists spending a record $44.3 billion for the year ending March, 2019 – a 5 percent increase on the previous year.

With almost 9.3 million international visitors for the year ending March, 2019 and 43 cents of every tourism dollar being spent in regional Australia, the benefits of this expanding industry is driving future prosperity.

The Murray region recorded more than $20 million in tourist expenditure, an increase of $2 million on the year before; with an average spend of around $745 per visitor.

Zooming in more locally, the City of Greater Shepparton reported an increase of 26 percent of domestic overnight visitors to Greater Shepparton in the 2017/18 financial year, considerably higher than the 7 percent Victorian average. Domestic day trip visitation also saw

August/September 2019 - Our Goulburn Valley Building a prosperous region together - The Shepparton Adviser

an increase of 10 percent, again much higher than the 8 percent average for all of Victoria.

967,331 domestic visitors stayed overnight in the region for the 2017/18 financial year, an increase of over 20,000 overnight visitors on the year before.

Overall, the total tourism and hospitality sales for City of Greater Shepparton during the 2017/18 year was $109.3 million, showing an increase of almost $20 million in sales since the 2012/13 report of $90.1 million.

Our Goulburn Valley Hall of Fame 25+ years in business

97

Strong family ties at local jewellery store If there is one profession that provides a conduit for connecting and communicating life’s most treasured sentiments and emotions, it is that which is the preserve of a manufacturing jeweller.

T

his year marks the 25th anniversairy since Stephen and Michelle Schneider resumed ownership of an iconic Shepparton business that had been established in 1951 by Michelle’s grandfather and watchmaker, Arthur Gerrard.

Michelle’s uncle John took over from his father until he retired and the business was sold outside the family.

In 1994, Stephen and Michelle returned from living in the city to reconnect with their country roots and commence a 25 year journey of rebuilding a family business built on traditions of quality customer service.

Thus, Stephens Jewellers began.

“In the early years we focused on rebuilding and listening carefully to the needs of the community,” says Stephen. “This included joining the Chamber of Commerce and Industry Board to gain a better understanding of business community and contribute to the prosperity of Shepparton as a whole.”

1998 saw the opportunity to open their second store in the new Shepparton Marketplace development and in 2014 they opened a third store in Echuca to better service a growing clientele from the Riverina and Murray River region.

YEARS OF EXPERIENCE… Stephens Jewellers owner, Stephen Schneider is extremely passionate about providing the highest quality jewellery and service to his customers. Photo: Katelyn Morse.

“We have a fundamental philosophy of ‘yes we can’ that carries through to everything we do,” said Stephen.

“Our clients often come to us with a strong emotional connection to a precious family heirloom and it’s incredibly rewarding to help bring those treasured memories to life in a modern design for future family generations to admire.”

Like all aspects in life and business, digital technology is playing an ever increasing role and it is no different for jewellery.

“Consumers often arrive in store having researched

the world online and together we can bring their dream ring to life using CAD (Computer Aided Design) technology creating something unique right here in our Shepparton design studio.”

Stephens Jewellers are constantly evolving.

They recently launched their new digital platform including a new interactive website, with an online store in the pipeworks as well.

“I am incredibly proud of our connection with the Goulburn Valley and our wonderful clients. We are excited to see what the next 25 years reveal.”

98

Our Goulburn Valley Hall of Fame 25+ years in business

A taste of 45 wineries in the Valley The Goulburn Valley has become well known in the wine industry for its Shiraz, but in recent years wineries across the region have been branching out to offer new and exciting varieties.

M

any of the wineries in the area have been around the grapevine for many years, but now we’re starting to see new, smaller wineries getting their foot in the door.

With 42 years in business, Phillips Cellars proudly offers a wide selection of 45 local wineries, with a variety of white and reds to satisfy your palate. The selection includes wineries that don’t yet have cellar doors open to the public, which is great to show support for up and coming wineries that may not have a name for themselves yet.

Phillips Cellars owner, Paul Phillips, said the overall The overall standard of wines in the region has increased standard of wines in quite a lot in the last few years, especially the the region has increased Riesling, Chardonnay and Pinot Gris varieties.

“It’s a very exciting time for wineries in the region. quite a lot in the last We’re seeing smaller wineries opening up their few years, especially the doors to the public on weekends, and even Riesling, Chardonnay and local wines being exported internationally.”

Pinot Gris varieties,” Mr Phillips believes we’ll continue to see unique flavours coming out of the region, and hopes local Paul Phillips wineries will create more events for consumers to attend and enjoy the great taste our wineries have to offer.

42 YEARS IN BUSINESS… Phillips Cellars business owner, Paul Phillips is excited by the unique flavours coming out of the region Photo: Katelyn Morse.

August/September 2019 - Our Goulburn Valley Building a prosperous region together - The Shepparton Adviser

Our Goulburn Valley Hall of Fame 25+ years in business

99

Shepparton’s Hall of Fame of Business When reflecting on the deep history of several Shepparton businesses, Our Goulburn Valley magazine thought it is important to highlight long-standing businesses of approximately 25 years or older in our new Hall of Fame of Business section.

Those featured here are only the ‘tip of the iceberg’ of this category of business in the region.

Here are several Goulburn Valley businesses that are, and have been, highly successful over many years.

FJ Wrought Iron

throughout the Goulburn Valley up-todate with the latest in technology.

“We purchased an existing business on August 10, 1989,” Jenny recalls. “It’s challenging, but wonderful. We often get to see the same great customers and we always provide the best customer service that we can. They may not need a new computer every day, but it’s nice to see many of the same faces pass through the store every five years or so.”

solutions for the residential, Barca said, “Currently, the commercial, industrial and course condition is at Quiet achievers in the structural steel The Eye government markets. another level and engineering business are FJ Wrought Managing director, we’ve completed Shop Iron of Drummond Road, Shepparton.

Angelo Kakouros renovations on all Locally owned and Proprietors, Joe Catalano and Frank said, “We have the greens and operated optical boutique, Bostancioglu said they had seen big been providing fairways. We are the Eye Shop provides a large change in Drummond Road since they superior also extremely range of optometry services to the had moved there. “We were one of the technology and enthusiastic people of the Goulburn Valley. first businesses out here, after moving service for local about the new Co-owner, Ashley Madeira said, “Moving to from Watson Street, a lot of business families and developments, the Goulburn Valley in 1989 was definitely a is done out this side of town,” Joe said. businesses. We extending to great move to launch my career in optometry.

FJ Wrought Iron specialise in are members of the course and Sabac on High It has been a pleasure to serve the residential and commercial the Shepparton giving players When customers community of this wonderful region for structure steel work Chamber of three new holes.” shop at Chris Wilcox’s three decades. Vanessa and myself will ABS Auto along with security Commerce and business, Sabac continue to help our customers at doors and gates, Service Centres Industry and on High, they’re Pinch of Salt The Eye Shop with passion wrought iron ABS Auto Services started out strongly support usually there for Every time you step and care.” fencing and in 1981 as a parts remanufacturing local community “happy reasons” foot into Pinch of Salt, a customised business in Fitzroy and the Shepparton groups, including the – buying gifts lifestyle store in Shepparton, staircases. The franchise started out soon after.

Street Rider Night Bus. for loved ones, there’s always something new and business was Owner, David Morton-John reflects on “We strongly believe that the Goulburn or themselves. exciting to take your breath away. founded in 1984. his time with the business, “Having started Valley is the heartland of Victoria, “We started Pinch of Salt is an array of beautiful in 1988, we were only the second franchise providing quality produce and it is a in Shepparton colours and inviting aromas, featuring Renato’s for ABS. Now, some 31 years later, we are wonderful place to raise your family.” about 31 years everything from great gift ideas and the oldest continuing servicing franchise ago and we’ve affordable homewares, to cookware Florist in the ABS Group, which now spans been in that same Wyndham Décor and accessories, children’s toys Sam “The Australia-wide. We are still proud spot on High Street Offering exceptional, down-to-earth and apparel. They also offer free Flower Man” to service the Goulburn Valley for 20,” Chris said. and personalised service, current owner gift-wrapping all year round.

Renato and his wife and surrounds.”

“One of the of Wyndham Décor, Sue Johnson has When reflecting on her 21 years of Josie Renato are two best things about been with the business 25 years and owning the business, Carolyn Young names many around the working here is that we is passionate about maintaining their said, “I want to create a relaxed region would recognise. have an opportunity to get reputation for providing quality products. atmosphere that allows shoppers The pair started their to know our customers. Because our Recently, Sue has decided to extend to simply enjoy the experience and business, Renato’s Florist, in 1981 store is a happy store, our customers the services offered at Wyndham Décor browse everything we have in-store.” at 21A Wyndham Street. always come in with a smile. to include prints, jewellery, bags and even Reflecting on over 38 years in business, “We’ve been here for such a long some specialist linen ladies clothing.

Sam was a bit lost for words, “What can Shepparton Carpet Court time and developed a trusting Reflecting on her 25 years I say? It feels like only five minutes,” Sam The successful trio of Murray Reid, relationship with many in business, Sue said said. “The main reason I enjoy my work is Mario Rizzeri and Mark “Doc” O’Sullivan of our customers. she is proud of the because I love my customers. I get a lot of of Shepparton Carpet Court continue They often send great reputation daily enjoyment talking to the community.” to strongly service the Goulburn Valley Hair Trend us requests for the business has “The way I see it, I don’t see myself with floor coverings. The business will Hair Trend has been operating in specific items and many of the selling flowers. I am portraying emotions; celebrate 25 years in 2020. Murray and Shepparton for many years. Since 2000, they’re looking friendships made we are in the emotions trade. Working Mark founded the business in 1995 and Jane McNeill has successfully run the salon, for and we work with customers in the emotions trade, you get involved Mario joined them in the early 2000s. moving the business to 68 Nixon Street in with them, over the years. with the customer and I’m grateful to The three have a combined 70 plus 2014. Jane is the third generation of the McNeill sharing photos get to know so many families. We’ve years of experience in floor coverings. family to conduct a business here in Shepparton. and ideas to been through the process of watching Mooroopna Jane and the staff enjoy the work, look forward get whatever it new babies grow, get married, and Lyn McNaught Golf Club to their clients and welcome newcomers to the is they’re after.” then their parents pass away – we’ve With years of experience in the Recently, salon. With plenty of parking nearby and the been through the whole process. travel industry, the dedicated team there has been CBD just a short and pleasant walk away, “It’s been a great ride and I’ve Standby at Lyn McNaught Travel have helped a lot of action at Hair Trend is the place to be for your loved every single second of it.” create many unforgettable memories Security the Mooroopna hair styling and hair care products. for locals seeking new experiences.

Established Golf Course and Computer Tech Support Lyn McNaught Travel specialise in in 1991, Standby the 18-hole course One business that has undoubtedly group departures from the Goulburn Security has been is immaculately caredwitnessed immense change throughout Valley and the team loves getting to know providing security solutions for, with beautiful views. the last 30 years is Computer Tech the travellers from the community and to Shepparton and surrounds Proud of his clubs efforts to Support. Having just celebrated their setting them up with unforgettable and and continues to be a market leader continue to grow and expand the club, 30th anniversary in business, Jenny and sometimes life-changing adventures. in electronic and physical security Mooroopna Golf Club president, Tony the team have been keeping customers

The Shepparton Adviser - Our Goulburn Valley Building a prosperous region together - August/September 2019

100

Our Goulburn Valley Hall of Fame 25+ years in business

Celebrating Shepparton Chamber of Commerce & Industry’s past

Business Awards Hall of Fame recipients E

ach year since the early 1990s, the Shepparton Chamber of Commerce and Industry has been coordinating the region’s premiere business awards to allow the community to pay recognition to our local businesses and individuals for displaying excellence in their fields.

The last 12 years has seen 12 businesses take out the top honours at the awards, being added to the business award’s Hall of Fame.

This year’s Hall of Fame recipient will be announced at a gala dinner on Friday, October 11.

With 2020 being the 25th anniversary of the business

awards, we thought this was a great opportunity to recognise the previous Hall of Fame award recipients, those many long-standing businesses from around the region which have contributed greatly to the Shepparton we all know today.

Previous years’ Business Hall of Fame Nominees:

2018: DALE WRIGHT PORTRAIT MAKER (PHOTOGRAPHY)…

From left, Dale Wright Portrait Maker owners, Lorraine and Dale Wright.

2017: PURDEYS JEWELLERS (JEWELLERY/RETAIL)…

From left, Pam Lynas and Stewart Lynas (Dec) and Jo and Michael Kearney of Purdeys Jewellers.

2016: CELLAR 47 (RESTAURANT/FOOD)…

From left, Cellar 47 owners, Franca and Angelo Grasso.

2015: RENATO’S FLORIST (RETAIL)…

Renato’s Florist proprietor, Sam Renato.

August/September 2019 - Our Goulburn Valley Building a prosperous region together - The Shepparton Adviser

Our Goulburn Valley Hall of Fame 25+ years in business

101

2014: JOHN ANDERSON PHARMACY (PHARMACY/ SERVICES/ RETAIL)… Agata and John Anderson of John Anderson Pharmacy.

2013: PAT & TINA’S BP SERVICE STATION (SERVICES)… Pat & Tina’s BP Service Station owner, Joe Di Conza.

2012: TRAFFIK BOUTIQUE (FASHION/ RETAIL)… Traffik Boutique owner, Hismet Sali.

2011: STUBBS WALLACE AND PARTNERS (FINANCIAL SERVICES)…

From left, business development manager, Naomi Hoenig, accountants, Paul Kealey and Anna McIntosh, director, Thomas Chick, accountants, Kristy Maher and Tristen Murray and trainee accountant, Kristina Marko.

2010: MCARTHUR’S SHOES (FOOTWEAR/ RETAIL)… From left, Shepparton Chamber of Commerce former president, Howard Forster, with McArthur family representative, Ellie McArthur.

2009: WB HUNTER PTY LTD (HARDWARE/ RETAIL)… Dot and Bill Hunter are congratulated by 2008 Hall of Fame winner, Gary Lovell.

2008: LOVELL’S SHEPPARTON NEWSAGENCY (RETAIL)… From left, Gary and Shirley Lovell and Louise Brown (nee Lovell) Lovell’s Newsagency.

2007: J. FURPHY & SONS PTY LTD (ENGINEERING)…

Adam Furphy of J. Furphy & Sons.

The Shepparton Adviser - Our Goulburn Valley Building a prosperous region together - August/September 2019

102

Our Goulburn Valley Hall of Fame 25+ years in business

Snapshots of Greater Shepparton’s past T

he Internet is a trove for nostalgia. The immense archive currently available online has helped facilitate a renewed interest in nostalgia, with social connectivity and technological advancements making it possible to discover and investigate our history.

Social media accounts and easy access to high-quality recording and sharing means we can record and reflect upon our lives with greater detail and clarity than most other humans in history.

With the tap of a screen or push of a key, we can now easily access old songs, videos and movies from the past. We can journey back as far as the current technology allows, amazed at the familiar-yet-alien appearance of old streets, fashion and technology. We can even investigate our own family ancestry, learning where the branches of our family tree have sprouted from.

Local historian, Geoff Allemand has been volunteering time to catalogue not only Shepparton’s history but the history of the wider region as well. Geoff has established a website alongside Facebook groups like Lost Shepparton to help share the great images, graphics and videos unearthed or donated by members of the community.

“Unfortunately for Shepparton, we don’t have the physical reminder or historic buildings surrounding us, as other country towns do,” Geoff said.

“We are solely reliant on technology, books and old printed material to relive, and for some, discover for the first time, the history of this region.”

Geoff and his team of volunteers at the Shepparton Heritage Centre are always looking for helping hands and your great photos to add to their archives. Geoff and the team will even digitise images for you, free of charge, as thanks for loaning your prized photos to be scanned and archived.

“We are always looking for photos featuring Shepparton’s streets,” Geoff said. “If you have any old photos of people around their homes or businesses in the region, these are highly sought after. We are also always looking for photos of events and celebrations.”

If you have any lost or old photos you’d like to get digitised for archiving and to share with the region, drop in and visit the friendly group of volunteers at the Shepparton Heritage Centre. Otherwise, email Geoff at Geoff@myshepparton.com.au or visit the website www. myshepparton.com.au/lost-shepparton.html For those nostalgia nuts who want to see even more great pictures from Shepparton’s past than the limited amount currently on the website and Facebook page, Geoff has established a Patreon page where users can pay a subscription to access a deeper archive. Payments for the subscription are tiered, meaning history buffs can choose how deep into the trove they dig. For further information about the Patreon page, visit www.patreon.com/geoffallemand

ARCHIVING OUR HISTORY… Local historian, Geoff Allemand has been hard at work collecting and archiving photos from the region, helping to maintain our heritage and bring Shepparton’s rich history to future generations. Photo: Katelyn Morse.

THE RECREATIONAL HEART OF TOWN… The Victoria Park Lake has undergone a lot of redevelopment over the last year particularly up the north end.

The man-made lake was developed back in 1928 for recreational purposes, with the Raymond West Swimming Pool (now known as Aquamoves), opening in 1955. Photo: Katelyn Morse.

38 Years

in the beauty industry As a fully qualified beauty therapist, Dominique was the first person to introduce cosmetic semi permanent make-up into country Victoria.

Dominique Rachelle CPDA Certified Professional Dermal Artist.

Internationally trained in America.

97A Orr Street, Shepparton

0418 254 811

www.semi-permanentmakeup.com.au

August/September 2019 - Our Goulburn Valley Building a prosperous region together - The Shepparton Adviser

Salon Services • Microblading Eyebrows • Cosmetic Eyeliner • Powder Eyebrows • Waxing/Facials

WORLD OF BEAUTY EST. 1981

Services As the Liberal Member for Northern Victoria Region, I am proud to represent the people of the Goulburn Valley in the Victorian Parliament.

The Goulburn Valley is home to many wonderful multicultural communities as well as a diverse business and industry sector.

Our business community has a worldwide reputation of being innovative leaders in many of our core industries, including horticulture, transport, manufacturing, hosting major events and tourism. As a new home for immigrants from all over the world, the Goulburn Valley is recognised for welcoming and assimilating new arrivals into our wonderful community where everyone lives in harmony together. It makes me proud as the Liberal Member for Northern Victoria Region to represent and work with the people and businesses, who like me, call the Goulburn Valley home.

Member for Northern Victoria, Wendy Lovell

The Shepparton Adviser - Our Goulburn Valley Building a prosperous region together - August/September 2019

104

Our Goulburn Valley Services

Local developer has his ear to the ground The ancient Greek philosopher Plato is credited with coining the phrase, ‘Necessity is the mother of invention’ and necessity had been the genesis of the HearAid software platform developed by GV Hearing audiologist and software developer, Lindsay Symons.

A

t a time when computer solutions were in their infancy, Lindsay became involved in developing a data analysis program for medical practices in dBase, an early data management program language.

“This program was novel and new, hospitals really didn’t have computer management systems in place for allied health professionals and this program called Performance Indicators was taken up by around 75 hospitals around Australia,” Lindsay said. “It is still in use in some locations.”

“Around 1997 the federal government sought expressions of interest from providers regarding the pensioner hearing aid program. This had been solely managed by one organisation and this call enabled the open market to become involved. We responded and went from there.”

“We developed some practice management software that clients could use to lodge claims into the Medibank online system. That is our HearAid package.

It enables businesses to record client data, their test results and other clinical notes as well as practice management functionality,” added Lindsay.

HearAid is used by as many as 105 businesses around Australia and holds between 40 to 50 percent of the available market.

The platform is currently designed for use within a business network. According to Lindsay, the next stage will enable it to be developed as a web application.

WORKING ON THE NEXT ITERATION... GV Hearing audiologist, Lindsay Symons working on the HearAid platform. Photo: Katelyn Morse.

105 40 businesses that use HearAid around Australia

Modern, multi-million dollar law courts O

fficially opening on April 3, 2018, the new $73 million Shepparton Law Courts boldly welcomes newcomers entering into town with its modern and eye-catching façade and bold structural design.

The new, state-of-the-art building sets the standard for regional court buildings, ensuring the Shepparton community has greater access to justice services, now and into the future.

The five level building features six main courtrooms specifically designed to enable the different courts and tribunals to hold sittings locally.

The design aspirations for the courthouse were to create a building reflects the values of an open, transparent and accessible justice system.

GATEWAY INTO TOWN... The new $74 million Shepparton Law Courts was officially opened on March 23, 2018 and is a regional headquarters for the Hume/Goulburn region. Photo: Sharelle Jarvis.

August/September 2019 - Our Goulburn Valley Building a prosperous region together - The Shepparton Adviser

to 50 percent of the available market held by HearAid

Our Goulburn Valley Services

105

Growing a larger solar footprint With the extreme winter and summer periods we experience, it’s time to take advantage of the solar power revolution throughout Victoria. Energy costs are rising, so now is the time to get back in control of your cost by going solar.

I

n keeping ahead of their competition, the Hot & Cold Shop have taken on both vertical and horizontal expansion. Adding the Solahart brand to their range brings the experience of 60 years and a large amount of installations to support their huge product range.

Equally important is their vertical expansion.

This last year has seen the acquisition of Jade Tucker to their management team, bringing in 20 years of We are local heating and refrigeration looking at different business acumen to build upon. ways to grow and “We are looking at different ways to grow and improve improve our services to our services to ensure the ensure the business is business is at the forefront at the forefront of its of its kind in the region,” said kind in the region,” Paul Marshall, director of Hot & Cold Shop. “To do that we Paul Marshall will build on the culture of the business from start to finish. Our customers need to have access to service

SERVICE SUPPORT... From left, Hot and Cold Shop directors, Jade Tucker, Phill Lahm and Paul Marshall are excited about the recent expansions within the business. Photo: Katelyn Morse.

from the initial purchase and installation along with service support for the lifetime of the product.”

In their showrooms, the Hot & Cold Shop offer a comprehensive range of architecturally inspired heating and cooling products ranging from ducted central heating, gas and wood heaters, to refrigerated cooling across to solar power systems.

“With our business, we now employ 16 local staff and we draw on multiple local subcontractor crews to work with us on everything from initial consultation through to the installations and full servicing of all our systems to ensure enduring customer satisfaction,” added Paul.

On a cold winter’s day, their store at 7965 Goulburn Valley Highway, Kialla provides a warm place to talk about heating and cooling.

16

local staff & multiple local subcontractors employed

The Shepparton Adviser - Our Goulburn Valley Building a prosperous region together - August/September 2019

106

Our Goulburn Valley Services

Local print company embraces digital revolution The print industry has certainly faced challenges entering the digital age and therefore it takes exceptional effort to maintain a small local printing business like Shepparton’s Willprint.

O

ffering customers a total printing solution, Willprint can assist with everything from concept and design to provide a quality, finished “With the product. The pre-press and design services the business offers also covers many software digital revolution, options and they always strive to remain we’ve been able to stay ahead of the latest software updates. ahead of the curve and Passionate locals, Ian and Jan Almond continue to keep up with have now owned Willprint for 23 years and say the business is still proudly digital technology, while locally employed and operating strong. still remaining affordable “With the digital revolution, we’ve been and locally focused,” able to stay ahead of the curve and continue to keep up with digital technology, while still Ian Almond remaining affordable and locally focused and offering our customers friendly face-to-face service.

PROUDLY LOCAL PRINTERS... Willprint owners, Ian and Jan Almond, are proud to be continuing their service to locals after 23 years. Photo: Katelyn Morse.

“We both shop local and we like to think that what goes around, comes around,” Jan said.

Willprint employs 13 people at their office and printing press locally, with exciting plans to further expand the business in the future.

August/September 2019 - Our Goulburn Valley Building a prosperous region together - The Shepparton Adviser

Our Goulburn Valley Services

107

Waste management company makes safety a priority As we move towards a public interest in reducing waste, we live in a society that still produces on a daily basis thousands of tonnes of materials destined for landfill sites.

“W

e are tasked to solve problems that you didn’t even know you had,” said John Lewis, depot manager for Veolia We are the Environmental Services in Shepparton. only EPA approved “At Veolia we handle a range of waste liquid waste treatment streams, medical, liquid, hazardous, putrescent, plant in the region and commercial as well as kerbside contracts.

“We are the only EPA approved liquid waste we also run a Materials LOCAL PROBLEM-SOLVERS… From left, Veolia depot manager, John Lewis treatment plant in the region and we also run a Recovery Facility and customer experience officer, Linda Nuttall. Photo: Sharelle Jarvis.

Materials Recovery Facility (MRF) in Echuca.”

(MRF) in Echuca,” “Safety is our number one priority, with vehicles as well as liquid waste vehicles.

John Lewis our staff and with the management of waste Waste management has become more disposal,” said John. “Our team is important to mechanised over the years. Now, each truck is us, some staff have been with us for more than 30 able to record the date, time and weight along with years, the average length of service is around ten years the GPS positioning that goes with each pickup. “While and we have 30 employees in Shepparton. The company it is mechanised and become more so in the future, we still employees in takes a lot of pride in the staff and we appreciate their work.” have to rely on staff doing some manual operations at times.”

Veolia maintain a fleet of vehicles of different capabilities, from Shepparton front lift to rear lift and bulk lift for building waste and kerbside

30

The Shepparton Adviser - Our Goulburn Valley Building a prosperous region together - August/September 2019

108

Our Goulburn Valley Services

August/September 2019 - Our Goulburn Valley Building a prosperous region together - The Shepparton Adviser

Our Goulburn Valley Services

109

The Shepparton Adviser - Our Goulburn Valley Building a prosperous region together - August/September 2019

110

Our Goulburn Valley Services

Business centre makes the most of advance in technology When inventor, Alexander Graham Bell made the first phone call in history, he said to his assistant, “Mr Watson, come here, I want to see you.” He may not have been able to visualise the day might arrive when Watson would not need to come to be seen.

T

hat day has certainly arrived. Optus Business Centre Shepparton are now providing a cloud hosted Cisco phone system which allows you to have the latest phone system technology at a fraction of the cost Optus has spent of an on-site system. It even allows $5.9B over the past you to make and receive office PROVIDING BETTER COMMUNICATIONS SERVICE… From left, Optus Business Centre calls from your mobile phone. two years on improving Shepparton dealer principal, Anthony Spadaro, office manager, Connie Spadaro, account Optus Business Centre manager, Jodie Taylor and sales manager, Mario Varapodio. Photo: Katelyn Morse. regional network coverage director, Anthony Spadaro and is proposing to spend said, “Optus has spent $5.9 communications service, such Mr Spadaro said, “There are a number of options billion over the past two as ICT solutions including available, either using cloud based or in-house server an additional $7.5M over years on improving regional mobile fleet plans, cloud hosted based systems. We have plans for fleet management of the next financial year network coverage and is and on-premise office phone mobile phones that can grow with the clients business.” in the local area,” proposing to spend an additional systems, NBN and mobile data Office handsets have moved on from the days of Anthony Spadaro $7.5 million over the next solutions and data networking Bell. Now cloud based systems phones can have financial year in the local area.” solutions and equipment. screens and cameras incorporated that enable Opening in April this year, the The team at Shepparton’s Optus visual communications at the same time. Optus Optus Business Centre is dedicated to Business Centre have a combined 40 have the systems that can meet the expectation business customers who are in need of better years of telecommunications experience. and are changing the way we use our phones.

August/September 2019 - Our Goulburn Valley Building a prosperous region together - The Shepparton Adviser

Our Goulburn Valley Services

111

The Shepparton Adviser - Our Goulburn Valley Building a prosperous region together - August/September 2019

112

Our Goulburn Valley Services

COMMITTED TO EXCELLENCE… From left, Mat Langley Electrical electrician, Tom McCormick, apprentice electricians, Nick Aires, Tom Vibert, Kyle Kydd, electrician, James Healy, director, Mat Langley, electrician, Steve Valentine, apprentice electrician, Tanner Merkel, administration, Terri Young and refrigeration mechanic, Jono Prior. Photo: Katelyn Morse.

Diversification as a point of difference Being in a rural area, we are being asked to do a lot of work for dairy farmers and so it was natural to expand into the refrigeration service as well,” Mat Langley

According to motivational speaker, Paul J Meyer, productivity is never an accident. It is always the result of a commitment to excellence, intelligent planning and focused effort.

T

atura electrical contracting business, Mat Langley Electrical & Refrigeration clearly identifies with each of those characteristics. Mat purchased the business in April 2017 after working for the previous owner for 15 years. He has expanded the business to where he now has 13 people on his staff and has undertaken considerable diversification of his business.

Aside from the electrical contracting, he has invested in a range of portable generators from 2kVA up to 100kVA that cater

for major events taking place in the region. Mat’s major clients for portable power include councils and event organisers.

“Our electrical client base includes domestic, commercial, rural, councils, government buildings, schools and aged care facilities,” Mat said.

Mat has recently employed a refrigeration mechanic specialising in all types of refrigeration, milk vats, cool rooms and air conditioning. “Being in a rural area, we are being asked to do a lot of work for dairy farmers and so it was natural to expand into the refrigeration service as well.

To contend with the expanded business, Mat and the team are moving into a larger premise that they are concluding a fitout to suit their business diversifications. Mat Langley Electrical & Refrigeration are ready to handle all aspects of electrical installation and repair work that might come their way.

August/September 2019 - Our Goulburn Valley Building a prosperous region together - The Shepparton Adviser

Our Goulburn Valley Services

113

The Shepparton Adviser - Our Goulburn Valley Building a prosperous region together - August/September 2019

114

Our Goulburn Valley Services

Over $375,000 raised for the community Community is all about working together for the greater good. We constantly see community support through our social services but it also comes from local business.

S

ince 2012, local independent supermarket, Fairleys SUPA IGA in Shepparton has set about supporting the region through their Community Grants program, and further, providing an avenue for locals to help raise funds for services within the community through the Community Rewards Program.

Fairleys SUPA IGA owner, Michael Lorenz said, “Fairleys SUPA IGA “Our one of a prides itself as Shepparton’s only kind rewards program independent supermarket. It GIVING BACK TO LOCALS… From left, Fairleys SUPA IGA office support, Robyn is our way of supporting has been an integral part of the Leahy and front-end manager, Leanne Florence with a cheque for the total amount given out from their Community Rewards Program this year. Photo: Supplied. the local community that community for many decades.

Our mission is to deliver the supports us. Since 2012, we have best shopping experience many more. This program is a core part of our given back more than $375,000 for our customers through business ethos. It is an ongoing testament to to various groups including great service, the best fresh our customers, staff and our local community. schools, sporting clubs, local foods, the largest range and “Our Community Grants program is super competitive prices. another way in which we give back, as it health services and many “Our one of a kind rewards provides community groups with the necessary more,” Michael Lorenz and more given back program is our way of supporting funding to undertake and complete special the local community that supports projects. This year alone, we have been able to to the community us. Since 2012, we have given back more give back over $70,000 to the community and hope than $375,000 to various groups including to see this number grow over the years to come.” schools, sporting clubs, local health services and

70K

August/September 2019 - Our Goulburn Valley Building a prosperous region together - The Shepparton Adviser

Our Goulburn Valley Services

115

The Shepparton Adviser - Our Goulburn Valley Building a prosperous region together - August/September 2019

116

Our Goulburn Valley Services

Award-winning rural-based finance broker eight years running From humble beginnings in Shepparton back in 2002, Vehicle and Equipment Finance have become one of the largest rural-based finance brokerages in Australia. Now with six offices across Victoria and Southern New South Wales and a list of clients all over Australia, it’s easy to say the five partners in the firm have put a lot of hard work and dedication into developing the business.

E

ach of the partners and staff have an extensive background in the field of finance broking, and it is this experience and knowledge that has contributed to both the company’s impressive growth and its current strength. Vehicle and Equipment Finance’s focus is to use their extensive network of industry relationships to provide their customers with a range of financial products, as well as the best possible service and advice.

It’s clear they have stuck by this philosophy, since they have been acknowledged as the Leading ANZ Regional Lending Broking Firm in Victoria for eight years running.

Vehicle and Equipment Finance offices across Victoria hinted at some big plans for the near future, as well as continuing to and Southern New provide their expertise and knowledge South Wales for new and existing customers.

6

EXPERIENCED AND KNOWLEDGABLE TEAM... From left, Shepparton Vehicle and Equipment Finance finance consultant/director, Steven Tricario, finance consultant/director, Philip Jones, finance consultant/director, David Edwards, finance consultant, Paul Ledger, settlements manager, Julie Stephens, applications manager, Mary-Ann Barton, finance consultant/director, Warren Helman and managing director, Greg Moylan. Photo: Katelyn Morse.

August/September 2019 - Our Goulburn Valley Building a prosperous region together - The Shepparton Adviser

Our Goulburn Valley Services

117

The Shepparton Adviser - Our Goulburn Valley Building a prosperous region together - August/September 2019

118

Our Goulburn Valley Services

Great customer service is key to growth When you enter GV Vets reception area, it is comforting to see a nurse working behind the counter while a small dachshund puppy, there for a procedure, sits relaxed on her lap.

S

uch a sight is not a rare occurrence. The staff at GV Vets are not simply ‘doing their job’, they are doing what they love. The care and compassion they show towards both pets and their owners is genuine. It is one thing to provide good customer service at reception to soothe the nerves of a pet owner concerned about the expense or risk of surgery. There is also the Providing good PROVIDING GREAT SERVICE FOR OUR FURRY FRIENDS… From left (back), GV Vets general manager, customer care provided to relieve Jeremy Lee, office manager, Sharon Washington, veterinary nurse, Felicity Woods, veterinary nurse, Jacqui customer service, good the stress felt by the patient. Both Webster and veterinarian, Dr Emily Horneman. (Front), receptionist, Julie Bonanno, receptionist, Melissa are essential when offering a high Dorsett, veterinary nurse, Taylor Parker, veterinary nurse, Katherine Byrne, veterinarian, Dr Courtney value, good education McGrath, veterinarian, Dr Frances Jenner and veterinarian, Dr Brett Davis. Photo: Sharelle Jarvis. quality professional service. and good communication Partner and veterinarian, is why our business Dr Frances Jenner explains, as digital x-rays and in-clinic over the last 18 months as we try to cater for those is doing so well,” “Providing good customer service, laboratory testing. Having who for one reason or another may find it challenging good value, good education immediate access to such to come into the clinic,” Dr Jenner explains.

Dr Frances Jenner and good communication is why resources means discussions with GV Vets also looks internally, striving to be an our business is doing so well.” the client regarding potential issues employer of choice, offering flexible working In 2018, the practice received the with their pet can occur swiftly. arrangements, study leave and professional Greater Shepparton Business Centre award By providing a 24-hour emergency development courses, in addition to cute dachshund for Best New Business Under 2 Years based on the service for both pets and farm animals, GV Vets puppies. Dr Jenner states, “One of our core overwhelming number of nominations from the public. offers additional comfort to owners. Home visits are philosophies is to look after our staff, so they Effective communication with clients is critical another means by which GV Vets can support clients. can look after our patients and their owners.” and can be enhanced with modern technology such “The number of home visits have grown significantly

August/September 2019 - Our Goulburn Valley Building a prosperous region together - The Shepparton Adviser

Our Goulburn Valley Services

119

The Shepparton Adviser - Our Goulburn Valley Building a prosperous region together - August/September 2019

120

Our Goulburn Valley Services

Connecting the Goulburn Valley with the world Bringing people in and out of the region is important in helping to not only showcase what we have on offer and allow people to travel and talk about our Goulburn Valley, but it also helps to keep the community connected to possible business opportunities.

C

elebrating 10 years in Your holiday starts business last year, Balfours Airport Direct as soon as you step CUSTOMISING TRIPS TO SUIT YOUR NEEDS… From left (in bus), Peter Hayes, Neil Verhoeven, Val Balfour, have come a long way Michael Bishop, Rob Balfour holding Lucas Balfour, and Sharon Warner. (Front) Mia Balfour, Leonie Balfour, foot on the bus.

We travel from their beginnings Leonard Balfour, Melissa Zini holding baby Audrey, and pup, Marley make up the Balfours team. Photo: Ash Beks. nationally and can help you with a single bus driven by owner, Leonard as you step foot on the can work to your timetable and budget and with plan your group’s holiday over Balfour for a special bus.

We travel nationally our knowledge we can suggest ways to expand to any place in Australia,” school run. The business and can help you plan on your holiday. The beauty about this service Leonard Balfour soon expanded to local your group’s holiday to is that we step outside of the usual boundaries charter work, educational any place in Australia. This and we customise trips to suit your needs.” and camping tours, with the service has been established With a new 14-seater bus joining the team, commencement of their Airport to suit any group, whether it be Balfours are also looking at adding more services years in Direct shuttle service in 2013. senior citizens, church groups, probus to and from Melbourne Airport in the near future. business Leonard said, “Your holiday starts as soon clubs, family, social or work groups, we

10

August/September 2019 - Our Goulburn Valley Building a prosperous region together - The Shepparton Adviser

Our Goulburn Valley Services

121

The Shepparton Adviser - Our Goulburn Valley Building a prosperous region together - August/September 2019

122

Our Goulburn Valley Services

Spare parts firm thrives in the Goulburn Valley THE days of auto spare parts manuals has probably come to an end. Now with no more than the car registration number or the vehicle identification number, the individual spare part number for most makes and models can be located.

S

uch is the auto parts identification system available at Burson Auto YEARS OF EXPERIENCE AND EXPERTISE… From left, Shepparton Burson Auto Parts 2IC, Dean Herezo and The staff are store manager, Jared Welch serving the auto industry within the Goulburn Valley. Photo: Katelyn Morse.

Parts. With more than 16,000 well prepared with part numbers in their inventory more than 120 years and thousands of others push for international growth. a job and we can get it to them the same day available within the database, Jared Welch, the store manager while the car is still on the hoist,” said Jared. combined experience to finding the correct spare part looks after a team of 13 staff “Our clients include mechanical repair shops serve the auto industry’s has never been simpler. with four delivery cars on the but we also serve councils and government increasing need for Burson Auto Parts is in a growth road meeting parts requests to clients as well as a range of engineering firms phase. Since being established account clients over an area that such as forklift and bus companies.” service,” Jared Welch in Shepparton in 1994 when there extends 50km in any direction.

The staff are well prepared with more than 120 were 77 stores in the group, the “The company has a trade focus years combined experience to serve the auto company has since gone public and now serving local mechanical repair industry’s increasing need for service. Shepparton’s grown to 185 stores around the country businesses. Our delivery service is for Burson Auto Parts is highly regarded in the group. and five now being established in Thailand in a our account customers who need a part for

August/September 2019 - Our Goulburn Valley Building a prosperous region together - The Shepparton Adviser

Our Goulburn Valley Services

123

Technology is driving efficiency and growth in accounting firm Getting clients to change bad habits and move onto cloud-based business management systems has seen this new accounting firm’s client base rapidly increase over a two-year period.

“W

ord of mouth has been the greatest driver for our growth,” said Jarad Baldwin, director of Westwood Knight Accountants. “Being a young team, we are right into new technologies and we look to leverage this knowledge to implement new business systems for our clients to improve their efficiency.

“Our role in their business can be anything up to a virtual Chief Financial Officer, which our clients love as they are getting timely financial insight without the need for them to have someone on staff full time. Our client base is quite diverse and includes businesses in the health and allied services, construction, agriculture industries and increasingly people from the tech sector with businesses ranging in size from small mum and dad operations to larger more complex corporations.”

Alongside the Westwood Knight branch in Shepparton, they also maintain an office in Melbourne where a growing number of their clients, particularly from the technology sector, are now coming from.

AUTOMATION ENHANCES EFFICIENCY… From left, Westwood Knight Accountants director, Jarad Baldwin and consultant, Tenille Gibson are utilising technology to innovate their business. Photo: Sharelle Jarvis.

“Being online, physical access is no longer a barrier. The clients can enter all their records through their industry apps like Tradify or Deputy that link straight into the accounting platform and we can put together weekly, monthly or quarterly reports for them,” added Jarad.

“Automation in our industry is enabling us to offer a better service more efficiently and accordingly the time we spend on their account is less making it more cost effective for the clients but at the same time we can offer a broader range of value-adding business advice.”

Our client base is quite diverse and includes businesses in the health and allied services, construction, agriculture industries and increasingly people from the tech sector with businesses ranging in size from small mum and dad operations to larger more complex corporations,” Jarad Baldwin

The Shepparton Adviser - Our Goulburn Valley Building a prosperous region together - August/September 2019

124

Our Goulburn Valley Services

World’s most ethical company for eight years running When Arthur J. Gallagher founded the company in a Chicago basement office in 1927, the world was a vastly different place. However, old-fashioned business values, such as honesty, integrity and client advocacy are as relevant today as they were more than 90 years ago.

G

allagher is so much more than just an insurance broker – think of them as a trusted advisor and business partner, and someone you can call when the unexpected happens. As a longstanding member of the Shepparton and local community, they are working in partnership to create and support long term growth in the region.

Returning to Shepparton, Gallagher principal broker, Russell Boucher is part of the great team helping clients with their risk management requirements. The team advise

Think of Gallagher’s as a trusted advisor and business partner, and someone you can call when the unexpected happens.

TRUSTED ADVICE… From left, Gallagher senior account executive, Martin Corrigan and principal broker, Russell Boucher. Photo: Katelyn Morse.

on all facets of insurance and specialise in large commercial property risks, heavy truck fleets, farm and crop, motor trades, civil construction, small business and trades.

Working with businesses big and small, Russell and fellow Shepparton insurance broker, Martin Corrigan, pride themselves on their long

August/September 2019 - Our Goulburn Valley Building a prosperous region together - The Shepparton Adviser

lasting client relationships and supporting the business community. This dedication is one of the reasons Gallagher has been recognised as a ‘World’s Most Ethical Company’ by Ethisphere for eight years running.

8

years awarded as the ‘World’s Most Ethical Company’

by Ethisphere

Our Goulburn Valley Services

125

Success in the region is contagious CONTINUED FROM PAGE 4 Kevin Hicks of Kevin Hicks Real Estate is very positive as to how the Goulburn Valley is shaping up. He says there has been a definite change in agriculture in the last 10 years. Water pricing has forced change and dairy farms are changing to fodder, beef and lamb. “We’re seeing commoditydriven change in the region,” Kevin adds.

Land development continues at a rapid pace virtually all round Shepparton, Mooroopna and Tatura. Kavant Nominees, developers of Kialla Lakes Estate, also have Park Views Estate in Mooroopna.

Other popular estates that are selling well via Gagliardi Scott Real Estate are: Seven Creeks Estate, The Vines, Woodlands Estate, Providence Field, Windsor Park, Riverwood Park, Riviera Park Estate, Connolly Park Estate, Sanctuary Park, Meadow Wood Estate, Toolamba and Numurkah Central. Stages 5 & 6 of Grammar Park Gardens are now complete and selling well according to Kevin Hicks Real Estate selling agent Terry Shiels. Kevin Hicks Real Estate are also agents for Kialla Lakes Estate.

Tatura Waters is a brand new estate for Tatura and is selling well according to Glenn Young of Youngs & Co Real Estate. Youngs & Co are also agents for Kialla Lakes Estate and Grammar Park Gardens. Last but not least, Northlinks Estate at Tatura is currently selling Stage 13, through Kevin Hicks Real Estate and Ruralco Property.

Youngs & Co director, Glenn Young believes Shepparton is set for a boom. Glenn says: “There’s going to be big demand on residential property as GV Health’s major upgrade is completed in the coming two years.” Glenn says their vacancy rate for rentals is at 1-2 percent, which is very tight for those looking for a property to rent.

In relative terms, land in the Shepparton region is very well priced for first home buyers and investors.

One of Australia’s leading recycling firms, Future Recycling (formerly Future Metals), located in Old Dookie Road, along with its other branches is diverting 200,000 tonnes of product from landfill across Victoria. The local arm of the successful business, run by Justin Spokes and headed up by Tyrone Landsman, is the only Australian waste management company to be Certified Carbon Neutral. The firm has four sites in Victoria.

Jarvis Delahey Construction continues to do a number of projects in the region. Headed up by Nathan Delahey and Richard Jarvis, the successful local firm has recently completed the raised walkways around the CBD, new car parking in Skene and Nixon Streets, work

on New Dookie Road and a boat ramp for Strathbogie Shire among many other jobs.

A quiet achiever in the local accounting world is Plus 1 Group who have 50 employees. The Shepparton based business, which specialise in accounting for the transport industry, services customers across the nation. As part of their services they also do HR consulting, succession planning, acquisition and financial planning and income protection work. The firm is led by Karen Parhaar (25 years experience), Ben Snow (20 years experience), Matt O’Bryan (20 years experience) and Devinder Singh (15 years experience). Plus 1 Group executive PA and HR consultant, Pam Fraser says they have a strong and progressive young team. The firm support local sport through sponsorships with the Goulburn Valley Football League and Northern Country Women’s League, as well as several individual clubs.

After trading under the banner of Taig Bros. for 72 years, the long standing successfully run family business headed up

by John Taig, changed hands and name to the Emanuele family from South Australia and North East ISUZU was born. Tony Emanuele and his team employ 400 staff, with 25 of them here at their Wheeler Street, Shepparton premises. The strong family business was founded by Tony’s father, Charlie (dec) in Adelaide in 1995. “We have great confidence in the Goulburn Valley and northern Victoria”, Tony tells Our Goulburn Valley magazine.

Moyola Aged Care, Tatura, run by Polly Devine continues to do great things. They have two sites, the larger being a 43-bed facility called Moyola Lodge which features a specialist 12-bed care facility called Margaret Love Wing for dementia patients, Moyola Gardens is an independent living community with 36 free-standing residences for seniors over 55. Polly Devine says her team is all about enhancing people’s lives.

She says they also have a strong partnership with Dementia Australia, which in turn helps with their planning for the future.

There are always hidden gems when compiling information for Our Goulburn Valley magazine. One of these we have uncovered is the development of software for the hearing services sector. Lindsay Symons of Lindsay Symons & Associates and Goulburn Valley Hearing, has worked on his development for several years and has sold his software called HearAid to over 100 hearing clinics across the nation.

Trevaskis Engineering has recently celebrated its 60th year in business in Tatura and Riverside Plaza shopping centre, developed by the Copulos Group of Companies, celebrates its 10th anniversary later this year.

The Copulos family are passionate about

Shepparton; for many years they have continued to reinvest in many businesses locally, yet a lot of the Group’s business spreads nationwide and to many parts of the world. Peter and Steve Copulos and their families are proud to call Shepparton home.

A gem of a business that Our Goulburn Valley magazine came across recently, which normally flies under the radar, Ridley Agri Products. A market leader in its field, Ridley has deep roots in Mooroopna dating back to the 1890s. Originally known as McLennan’s & Co Roller Flour Mill, the firm’s site manager, Shane Emanuelli, said they specialised in supplying to the chicken and

pig industry. Mooroopna is one of 20 Ridley sites of which they produce an impressive 113,000 tonnes of feed per annum.

Spiire land surveyors and property infrastructure advisors recently won two Australian Institute of Landscape Architects’ Landscape Architect Awards.

Their team won both the Inclusive Cities Research Project and Community Contribution awards, for their work at GV Health’s new Therapeutic Courtyard.

There are numerous other success stories not featured in this special edition of Our Goulburn Valley, which we hope to uncover in the future.

The Shepparton Adviser - Our Goulburn Valley Building a prosperous region together - August/September 2019

126

Our Goulburn Valley Services

$100s of millions in development pipeline for Shepparton region - Dozens of projects lay foundations for a bright future CONTINUED FROM PAGE 8 On the education front, Tatura Primary School now has access to state-of-the-art educational facilities with a $2.5 million purpose-built permanent modular building, which opened in March. There are several education projects being planned for the Shepparton region.

The big one is the $21 million super school (Greater Shepparton College) where upwards of 2500 students will be taught at the Shepparton High School campus.

The controversial project is due to be ready for Wanganui Park Secondary College,

Mooroopna Secondary College, McGuire College and Shepparton High School students On the education in 2022. front, Tatura Shepparton is home to the brand new Goulburn Valley Motor Group (Darryl Primary School now has Twitt Motors) state-of-the-art showrooms access to state-of-the-art of Jaguar, Land Rover and Honda. The new automotive complex was opened educational facilities with on Benalla Road recently by dealer a $2.5 million purposeprincipal Jason Sherlock. It has been a built permanent modular triple celebration for Honda Australia.

The company celebrates 50 years in building, which opened Australia, 25 years in the Goulburn Valley in March. as Darryl Twitt Honda and a brand new and amazing Honda showroom.

The Davkovski family, who run the successful SCS Plastics packaging business in Wheeler Street, Shepparton, are gearing up to install a $2 million thermo-forming machine early in 2020. It’s all part of the business continuing to evolve since its beginnings as a cardboard depot in 1981, then a cold storage and transport business in 1983, before going into the plastic container business in 1985. SCS Plastics employs approximately 50 people and produces 150 million plastic containers per annum, with expansion into Asia also planned. The family business, run by brothers Chris and George Davkovski, along with their sons, David and Johnny, is also advancing into biodegradable packaging to avoid landfill.

Infrastructure is front-of-mind for Duane Duane is excited Cornish who is manager of Liberty Metalcentre in Florence Street, at the prospect of Shepparton. Duane is excited at the prospect major rail upgrades to of major rail upgrades to Shepparton, along Shepparton, along with with a new rail overpass at Shepparton Railway Station. Liberty Metalcentre supplies a new rail overpass steel to the major GV Health project via CPE at Shepparton Construction, as well as to many other projects throughout the region.

Railway Station.

Visy continues strongly as a major local player across the packaging, recycling, storage, logistics and automation space. Regional manager, Rocky Raco, is proud of the Australian company that continues its strong innovation in its fields of business. Upwards of 35 B-Double trucks leave its premises on Grahamvale Road, Shepparton East daily to The Pratt family, who service Shepparton and the Goulburn Valley. own Visy, have always had Visy’s packaging is supplied from their factories at Wodonga and Truganina west strong ties to the Shepparton of Melbourne. Australia’s wealthiest family, region. Founder, Richard Pratt the Pratt family, who own Visy, have (dec), attended Grahamvale always had strong ties to the Shepparton region. Founder, Richard Pratt (dec), Primary School and attended Grahamvale Primary School and Shepparton High School Shepparton High School in the late 1930s and early 1940s. in the late 1930s and Look out for continued success and major early 1940s. projects coming on stream in the Shepparton region in the coming years, we have a great future.

August/September 2019 - Our Goulburn Valley Building a prosperous region together - The Shepparton Adviser

Our Goulburn Valley Services

127

Major Events 2019/2020 Calendar For the full listing of major events visit www.visitshepparton.com

SEPTEMBER 2019

1 Shepparton Farmers Market 1 Emerald Bank Annual Heritage Rally and Market Day 6-8 Southern 7 Cutting Horse Show 8 Shepparton Swap Meet 11-13 ASHEfest 14-15 Mammoth Scale Fly-In 17-22 National Cutting Horse Victorian Futurity 17 Possum Magic 17 Dookie Wine Show 21 Kyabram District Football Netball League Grand Final 22 Goulburn Valley League Grand Final 22-26 AFL V/Line Cup 27-29 Murchison Meteorite 50th Anniversary

OCTOBER 2019

3-4 Melbourne Symphony Orchestra 3 Deniliquin Ute Muster 6 Shepparton Farmers Market 6 Australian National Show and Shine 11 Business Awards 11-12 Shepparton Show 12-13 Dookie Military Vehicle Rally 16 Ngar-wu Wanyarra Aboriginal and Torres Straight Islander Health Conference 17-20 Shepparton Country Music Festival 19-20 GV Model Rail Exhibition 20 Tatura Show and Shine A League Pre Season Melbourne City (TBC) 26 Day of the Dead at Cactus Country 25-27 Australian Football Skools Shepparton Cup 27 St Georges Road Food Festival 31 Out in the Open Festival

NOVEMBER 2019

1-6 Out in the Open Festival 2 Land of Plenty 2 Victorian Arabian Horse Championships 3 Shepparton Farmers Market 13-16 Victorian Quarter Horse State Championships

15-17 Victorian State Show-Jumping Championships 15-22 Stellar Victorian Open Bowls 16 Fryers Street Food Festival 22-24 Springcar Nationals 29-30 Victorian All Welsh Show

DECEMBER 2019

1 Victorian All Welsh Show 1 Shepparton Farmers Market 1 Show Us Ya Wheels Numurkah Small Town Christmas Events Christmas Track Carnival 6-8 Greater Shepparton Junior Basketball Championships 8 Murray Codference 8 Italian Plate Race Day 12-13 Greater Shepparton PGA Golf Masters 22 Shepparton Carols by Candlelight 31 New Year’s Eve Festival

JANUARY 2020 1-4 GV Junior Tennis Tournament 19-23 International Dairy Week 20-24 Ayrshire World Conference 26 Australia Day Celebrations 31 UCI BMX Supercross World Cup FEBRUARY 2020 1-2 UCI BMX Supercross World Cup Pro Bull Riding 7 Adam Thompson Bohemian Rhapsody 19-23 Summer Sizzler 22-23 Badminton Masters 22-23 Ultimate Victoria Southern Regional Championships

28-29 Summer City Market 29 Antiques and Collectables Expo

MARCH 2020

1 Antiques and Collectables Expo 1 Tatfest Converge on the Goulburn Shepparton Festival 6-8 Welsh Nationals 7-9 VACSAL Basketball Classic 14 Ian Moss 14-15 Rugby Victoria Pre Season Cup 22 Albanian Harvest Festival 24 Careers Day Out 27-29 CFA Championships 28 Goulburn Vibes 29 Rotary Car Show

APRIL 2020 KidsFest 4 Shepparton Italian Festa 10-13 Shepparton Lawn Easter Tournament 11 Goulburn Vibes 25 ANZAC Day

MAY 2020 Buckle Up N Slide Shepparton Bike and Car Show Greater Shepparton Basketball Masters GV Bird Club Annual Sale

JUNE 2020

6-8 Tatura Art Show 6-8 Northern Vic Sled Dog Classic 6-8 Victorian Softball Masters Championships

Disclaimer: This calendar has selected major visitations and events supported by or held in event venues managed by Tourism and Events team of Greater Shepparton City Council (current June 2019). Further events are still in bid and negotiation process.

The Shepparton Adviser - Our Goulburn Valley Building a prosperous region together - August/September 2019

128

Our Goulburn Valley Services

The Goulburn Valley’s important role towards clean, renewable energy As shown throughout this magazine, the Goulburn Valley is a large contributor to the rest of Australia in several industries.

A

s one of only two solar farms in the country, the 515ha Numurkah Solar Farm, situated about 5km east of Wunghnu, is supplying 100 percent renewable energy to offset Melbourne’s entire tram cost.

The facility will generate approximately 255,000 megawatt hours of clean, renewable energy into the national power grid each year. The emissions reduction delivered by this solar farm will be the equivalent of taking 75,000 cars off the road or planting 390,000 trees.

The Numurkah Solar Farm is part of the Renewable Certificate The Numurkah Purchasing Initiative and Solar Solar Farm is part of Trams Initiative, which is the Renewable Certificate leveraging around $720 million in capital expenditure and Purchasing Initiative and creating 755 construction Solar Trams Initiative, which is THE REGIONS BRIGHT FUTURE… The $198 million Numurkah Solar Farm is currently jobs and 33 ongoing jobs, helping to support Melbourne’s tram network. Photo: Supplied leveraging around $720 million all in regional Victoria. in capital expenditure and Victorian Minister for Victoria’s Renewable To go alongside this, the Andrew’s Labor Government Energy, Environment and Energy Target (VRET) is also has their Solar Homes program. The $1.3 billion creating 755 construction jobs Climate Change, Lily D’Ambrosio increasing to 50 percent by program will help 770,000 households invest in solar while and 33 ongoing jobs, all said, “The Numurkah Solar 2030, meaning more clean creating 5,500 new jobs and slashing carbon emissions. in regional Victoria.

Farm will play an important role energy is getting pumped back This financial year Solar Homes will support in supporting the transformation in to the grid, increasing investment 49,000 installations, including 42,000 rooftop of our energy system towards clean, and driving down energy prices. solar systems on 40,000 owner-occupied renewable energy and reaching our It is expected that if the VRET target homes and 2,000 for rented homes. renewable energy target of 50 percent by 2030. of 40 percent by 2025 is achieved, this will The rebates for solar panels will be released each “This is Victoria’s largest solar farm – we’re proud drive around $7.2 billion in investment and create month to ensure the program is allocated fairly, rolled out to have supported a project that has delivered more than 10,000 jobs, as we boost the amount safely and will provide certainty for the solar industry. hundreds of jobs in regional Victoria.” of energy generated by renewable sources.

Delivering clean and renewable energy Australia’s first large scale, fully integrated renewable energy business operation is about to put the small town of Katunga on the map.

M

ore than $500 million will be injected into the local economy following the announcement of the AgBioEn renewable energy facility in Katunga. The total investment in all land, equipment and buildings in Katunga and the surrounding region will be at around $2 billion.

The multi-million dollar facility from AgBioEn

will utilise world-class technology to deliver clean, low emission renewable energy and liquid fuels.

Using a combination of pyrolysis technology and Fischer Tropsch, the AgBioEn facility will process organic waste materials (biomass) such as cereal straw. The Katunga facility will produce electricity, high quality renewable diesel and jet fuel, fertiliser and food grade CO2.

By 2023, over 7,500ha of land will be farmed for the facility and more than 1,000 jobs created.

All agricultural land used to supply biomass to the facility will be used to cultivate food crops. It is a priority for AgBioEn that no agricultural land is

taken away from food cultivation to create foods.

Leading local hydroponic tomato growers, Katunga Fresh, will be one of the first local companies to benefit from the new facility, with AgBioEn supplying electricity and heat for the company’s existing 14ha of glasshouses.

AgBioEn sponsor, Charles Hunting said, “Producing bioenergy at Katunga will allow local businesses to expand and offers multi-business benefits.

“In addition to satisfying local energy needs, AgBioEn will be able to supply renewable diesel for local transportation companies and bio-jet fuel for the aviation industry, along with other by-products of the process.”

Setting our sights on a powerful future C

onstruction on a new depot to expand Shepparton’s power facilities has commenced and will provide space for further growth and safer design.

Following an investment of $10 million, work has commenced on the new Powercor depot at 60 Doyles Road in June. The new depot is also significantly larger than the current Wheeler Street depot, which was built in 1966.

The new facilities at Doyles Road will support up to 25 percent increase in field resources in the future, with crews at the new depot supporting customers in Shepparton, Murchison, Dookie, Tatura, Mooroopna, Kyabram, Rushworth and the surrounding region.

Within the Greater Shepparton region alone, employees

BRIGHT EXPANSION… Artist impressions of the new $10 million Shepparton depot developed by Powercor that will support regional services. Photo: Supplied

will operate and maintain 22,684 poles, 2,621km of powerlines and 4,304 distribution transformers, delivering power to more than 33,550 Powercor customers.

The Doyles Road depot will feature improved office facilities, storage areas for equipment and fleet, and will support the future expansion of the workforce as part of Powercor’s program to deliver safe, reliable and affordable electricity to customers.

During the last five years, Powercor has made

August/September 2019 - Our Goulburn Valley Building a prosperous region together - The Shepparton Adviser

substantial investments in regional services: upgrading six depots and adding three new depots; providing crews with better technology, allowing faster access necessary for an effective response; and improving fleet vehicles and resources. With these additional resources, Powercor has embarked on a major works program boosting network safety and capacity.

The new facility at Doyles Road is expected to be completed by mid-2020.

Our Goulburn Valley Services

129

Our Goulburn Valley Business Directory Inside Front Page La Trobe 5820 8600

Introduction Pages Damian Drum MP 5821 5371 Goulburn Murray Credit Union Co-Operative 5821 9033 Hot And Cold Shop 5823 1955 Shepparton Land Rover 5855 5885 Shepparton Volkswagen 5822 5844 Suzanna Sheed 5831 6944 Wendy Lovell MP 5821 6668

Primary Industries & Consumer Goods AAA Wool Buyers 5821 7855 Admoor Plumbing 5825 1800 Australian Consolidated Milk 1300 669 212 Connect GV 5821 2466 Freshmax Australia 9688 5500 Goulburn Broken Catchment Management Authority 5820 1100 IK Caldwell 5821 2477 Irwin Stockfeeds 5853 2440 James Stockfeeds & Fertilizers 5866 2771 K & S Pallets 1800 360 039 Kruegers Fine Meats & Smallgoods 5821 5414 Landmark 5833 0221 O’Connors 5821 4555 Olea Nurseries 08 9772 1207 Pental Products 5820 5200 Phillips Cellars 5821 2051 SCS Plastics 5821 3599 SPC Factory Sales 5821 7033

Engineering & Manufacturing AA Engineering Fabrication & Hydraulics 5852 1002 Civilmart 5822 1232 Drives for Industry Pty Ltd 5822 2988 Furphy’s Foundry 5831 2777 Goulburn Valley Engineering Works 5821 2266 J Furphy & Sons Pty Ltd 5832 1400 Jmar Engineering 5831 5995 Pallet & Bin Corporation 5831 5349 Sibio Engineering 5829 0478 Snelling Engineering 0439 982 223 SSS Fabrications & Installations Pty Ltd 5821 5510 Trevaskis Engineering 5824 1466

Infrastructure, Construction & Development Adornato’s Sand & Gravel 5831 3002 All Sheds 1800 673 667 Apex Rail Pty Ltd 5829 9966 Bowens 5822 2364 Bruce Mactier Building Designers 1800 221 255 CAF Consulting 5849 1400 Chris Smith & Associates 5820 7700 Crow Constructions 5821 4722 Development Edge Pty Ltd Dowell Windows 5821 2665 Fletchers Insulation 5821 3012 Gagliardi Scott Real Estate 5831 1800 or 0407 826 542 Game Traffic & Contracting 1800 438 426 GV Health 5832 2322 Hansen & Yuncken 8290 5100 Hotondo Homes 0407 546 249 or 0437 996 083 Inspired Windows 5891 2316

Infrastructure, Construction & Development continued Jarvis Delahey Contractors 0447 418 148 John Brain Roofing Services 5831 2721 Kevin Hicks Real Estate 5821 8388 Kialla Lakes Estate 5821 8388 Or 5820 8777 Liberty Kitchens 5831 2620 Mawsons Concrete 5821 8826 Mawsons Constructions 5831 1144 NL Drainage 0407 801 714 Quicklift Crane Hire 1300 We Lift Scaffidi Contractors 5823 1404 Steeline 5831 1935 Surdex Steel 5831 2700 Youngs & Co Real Estate Shepparton & Mooroopna 5820 8777

Transport Bicknell’s Freight 5831 7166 Central Tyre Service Pty Ltd 5821 9555 D & S Truck Repairs 5831 2201 Future Recycling 5821 7876 Hertz 5831 5447 Keating Freight Lines 5829 9388 L & P Mackin Bobcat 5821 5221 L & P Mackin Forklifts 5821 5221 Leocata’s Transport 5824 2135 Plus 1 Group 5833 3000 Shepparton Radiator & Windscreens 5823 1590

Education & The Arts Academy of Sport, Health & Education 5823 6600 Kaiela Institute GOTAFE 1300 468 233 Partners in Training 1300 664 601

Hall Of Fame

Services continued

ABS Auto Service Centres 5831 2155 Choices Flooring Shepparton 5822 2777 Computer Tech Support 5821 7311 Dominique Rachelle’s World Of Beauty 0418 254 811 Eagle Auto Panel 5821 3196 Finny’s Manchester 5831 2592 FJ Wrought Iron 5822 1550 Hair Trend 5831 1441 Lyn McNaught Travel 5825 1866 Mooroopna Golf Club 5825 4135 Pinch Of Salt 5831 5315 Purdeys Jewellers 5821 4679 Renato’s Florist 5821 3733 Sabac On High 5831 2500 Shepparton Carpet Court 5823 2600 Sherbourne Terrace 5821 4977 Sound Exhaust 5821 7942 Standby Security Services 1800 809 579 Stephens Jewellers 5821 3361 The Eye Shop 5821 0311 Wyndham Décor 5823 5694

Dhelk Dja 5832 1503 Elders Insurance Shepparton 5822 7577 Fairleys Supa IGA 5822 1555 Goulburn Valley Water 5832 4800 Greater Shepparton Business Centre 5832 1100 GV Finance Brokers 1300 881 579 GV Generator Hire 5824 2299 GV Hydraulink 5831 5244 GV Vets 5878 1144 HSA Forklifts 1300 367 587 Mat Langley Electrical Pty Ltd 5824 2317 Moira Shire Council 5871 9255 National Australia Bank 5821 4155 Opteon Property Group 5821 3565 Optus Business Centre Shepparton 1300 071 210 OzPlan 5831 1233 PSC Griffiths Goodall 5821 7777 RI Advice Shepparton 5831 2833 Shepparton Roadworthy Centre 5821 8121 Total Tools 5821 6400 Ultimate Fasteners 5822 4122 Vehicle & Equipment Finance 1300 786 626 Veolia 13 29 55 Westwood Knight Chartered Accountants 5849 1551 Willprint Shepparton 5831 6565

Services All Storage Systems 1800 772 726 ANZ Shepparton 13 13 14 Balfour’s Mooroopna & Airport Direct 5825 3861 Bendigo Bank 5821 0188 Broker House 5831 6699 Burson Auto Parts 5831 3907

Directory Page Arthur J Gallagher Insurance Brokers 5832 8800

Back Page The Apprenticeship Factory 1300 134 648

The Shepparton Adviser - Our Goulburn Valley Building a prosperous region together - August/September 2019

130

Our Goulburn Valley Services

The world’s number one pest to horticulture is Fruit Fly Under laboratory conditions, the Queensland Fruit Fly (QFF) can lay up to 2000 eggs. Those eggs can mature and potentially create another generation within 6-8 weeks after hatching.

T

he gross value of Australian horticulture varieties considered a QFF host is approximately $11.5 billion annually (ABS 2015-16).

The gross value of Goulburn Murray Valley (GMV) IT’S A COMMUNITY EFFORT… Adrian Conti from ‘Conti Orchards’ Cobram spreads the ‘No Flies On Us’ message. horticultural varieties considered a QFF host is Adrian is a member of the Goulburn Murray Valley Regional Fruit Fly Governance Group. Photo: Supplied. approximately $415 million annually (ABS 2015-16).

The GMV is regarded as the ‘Fruit Bowl of our stakeholders in this respect,” Mr Abberfield said.

Australia.’ It is the largest producer of pears in the The project monitors between 350-400 Linfield southern hemisphere and is regarded as the ‘pome traps in its regional trapping grid which are read weekly fruit capital of Australia.’ It is also renowned for from October 1 to April 20 and fortnightly from July its kiwi fruit, pomegranate, grape and vegetable 1 to September 30. Data is collated, analysed and production. The Murray Valley is the nation’s interpreted by an independent researcher who largest producer of stone fruit. then provides monthly updates, trends and Victoria’s Minister for Agriculture, forecasts, which are disseminated to Our Jaclyn Symes, recently announced growers and the community via email aim is to create funding to extend the GMV Regional and conventional methods. Field awareness, education Fruit Fly Area Wide Management Officers are deployed to targeted and engagement Project until June 30, 2020. ‘hot spots,’ as indicated by trapping The funding has been made data and to date have completed amongst the community, available through the Managing more than 2,000 field reports industry and Fruit Fly in Victoria Regional since the project’s inception.

PROTECTING THE REGION… From left, Greater government agencies,” Grants Program, as part of the Other key achievements recorded Shepparton City Council Mayor, Cr Kim O’Keeffe and Victorian Government’s investment by the project to date include: Goulburn Murray Valley Regional Fruit Fly Coordinator, Ross Abberfield Ross Abberfield at the recent Blue Sky Applied national in keeping our agricultural • Installation of 240 signs, banners and conference in Shepparton. Photo: Supplied. sector secure and preventing the bollards in 37 towns across the region to spread of pests and diseases. improve community awareness of the pest. attended the two-day conference in Shepparton.

• Partnerships have been formed with Lions The ongoing success of the project has been Innovative, Area Wide Management is the International, Rotary International, Connect highlighted by its recent nomination in July 2019 key to controlling Queensland Fruit Fly GV, Billabong Nursery and other community, for the Prime Super Agricultural Innovation QFF is established in the GMV and, if unmanaged, industry and government agencies.

Award, which forms part of the 2019 Victorian has the potential to cause significant economic The project has successfully conducted community/ Regional Achievement and Community Awards. harm to the region’s horticultural industry. industry/government education workshops Award winners will be announced in October.

The GMV Regional Fruit Fly Project is overseen for more than 8,000 participants and relied on by a Governance Group made up of the community, an extensive community awareness campaign The project has generated positive comments grower industry groups and government agencies. utilising print media, social media, television and from researchers and industry representatives Its activities are coordinated by a Regional Fruit Fly radio to spread the ‘No Flies On Us’ message.

“The combined activities of the GMV Fruit Coordinator, auspiced by Moira Shire Council. The In November 2018, the Western Australia Fly Project has resulted in a reduction of QFF project area is 16,354 km2 which encompasses the Department of Primary Industries and Regional trapped in the GMV,” said Andrew Jessup, five local government areas of Greater Shepparton, Development (WADPIRD), invited the Project Independent Researcher, Janren Consulting. along with Campaspe, Strathbogie, Moira and Berrigan Coordinator to visit and advise staff and grower “Australian stone fruit exports have increased Shires and has a population of 150,067 people. groups on the GMV QFF AWM strategy model. by almost 30% in the previous twelve months.

The project’s action plan objectives are to: Sterile Insect Technique (SIT) is a method of pest Diligent monitoring and control of fruit fly is very 1) Strengthen fruit fly management through control using area-wide release of sterile insects to important to maintain these export markets, a coordination and collaboration between reduce reproduction in a wild-population of the same detection in any one of our protocol markets industry, government and community. species. The release of sterile flies over Cobram aims will suspend trade,” said Rocky Varapodio, 2) Improve QFF management in commercial to suppress an urban population to prevent it moving Oakmoor Orchards/Oz Pac Australia Pty Ltd. orchards and community areas. into surrounding horticulture. In March 2019, Mr Abberfield said fruit fly AWM has 3). Support and prioritise QFF Cobram was selected as a release site achieved cultural change in QFF research in the GMV region. due to its existing intensive trapping management in the GMV region.

GMV Regional Fruit Fly Coordinator, Ross Abberfield, grid, the proximity of horticulture “Through an innovative approach, our What we are said the strategy for achieving these objectives is to the town and support for the stakeholders have taken ownership of this doing is making a innovative fruit fly Area Wide Management (AWM). project from the community, issue, resulting in increased detection, “This approach necessitates having an intimate industry, government and increased sales of QFF control products, difference in practical knowledge of your particular region; the climate, the GMV Fruit Fly Project. increased hygiene and an improved terms. It’s imperative fruit and vegetable production areas, urban In May 2019, the project understanding of best practice. we maintain and build communities, habitat and hosts,” he said. hosted the 7th Australian “What we are doing is making a “Our aim is to create awareness, education Biology of Tephritid Fruit difference in practical terms. It’s on the successes and engagement amongst the community, Flies Conference, which imperative we maintain and build on achieved,” Ross industry and government agencies. brought together key the successes achieved,” he said.

Abberfield “One of the measurements of success is when research, findings and emerging The project is funded by the stakeholders accept ownership of the issue and opportunities in the management Victorian Government’s Managing collaborate to effectively manage and control fruit fly. and control of the pest. More than Fruit Fly Regional Grants Program.

I believe this project has had a galvanising effect on 150 scientists and researchers from across Australia

August/September 2019 - Our Goulburn Valley Building a prosperous region together - The Shepparton Adviser