This year has been one of growth and strength for GV Health and the wider Goulburn Valley community.
Despite challenges like workforce shortages and rising healthcare demands, our staff have continued to rise to the occasion, providing outstanding care and unwavering support to patients, their loved ones and each other.
The dedication and commitment of GV Health’s staff to excellence has been truly inspiring, and I am immensely proud of what we have achieved together.
A particular highlight of 2024 was the remarkable result in the National Safety and Quality Health Service Standards Accreditation Assessment, which GV Health passed with flying colours—a testament to the
exceptional work of our teams and the overwhelmingly positive feedback from patients and families.
Looking ahead, GV Health is excited about upcoming projects, including the expansion of home-based care services and new staff accommodation to be built at our Graham Street campus.
As we celebrate this festive season, I encourage everyone to take time to look after themselves and their loved ones.
On behalf of GV Health, thank you to our community for your ongoing support throughout the year.
Wishing you a safe, joyful, and healthy Christmas and New Year.
Sam BIRRELL MP
FEDERAL MEMBER FOR NICHOLLS 426 Wyndham Street, Shepparton VIC 3630 03 5821 5371 sambirrell.com.au SamBirrellMP sam.birrell.mp@aph.gov.au
TOOLAMBA PRESCHOOL
Best wishes,
Matt Sharp Chief Executive, Goulburn Valley Health
Buy Australian Made This Christmas Enjoy great-tasting produce while supporting local farmers, jobs and our community. My office will be closed from 5pm December 20th and will reopen on January 2nd, 2025. I look forward to meeting with many of you in the new year.
Authorised by Sam Birrell, The National Party of Australia, Shepparton.
TOOLAMBA PRESCHOOL... PICTURED from left back row: Charlie, Jax, Peyton, Lenny, Alex, Hunte and Poppie. Front row: Conor, Cedric, James, Quinn, Carter, Lucas, Darcie, Elsie, Audrey, Jake, Milla and Wyatt.
MURCHISON KINDERGARTEN
AND EARLY CHILDHOOD SERVICE
CHRISTMAS MESSAGE...
On behalf of Greater Shepparton City Council, we wish you a Merry Christmas, Happy New Year, and a relaxing festive season.
This year has been another big one for our region, with the community coming together to support each other and celebrate what makes Greater Shepparton such a great place to live. It has been fantastic to see so many events bringing people together over the past 12 months.
The holiday season is a
Best wishes,
Cr Shane Sali Mayor, Greater Shepparton City Council
chance to unwind, spend time with family and friends, and look back on what we have achieved, while getting ready for a fresh start in 2025. We are proud of everything our community has accomplished and look forward to seeing what we can achieve together next year. Stay safe and enjoy the break.
We are excited to work with you all in the New Year to keep building on our successes. See you in 2025!
MURCHISON KINDERGARTEN... Pictured from left to right are Harley, Stevie, Daphne, Millie, Christopher, Ellis, Benjamin, Keyva, and Belle.
Together with my staff Tamara, Katerina and Robert, I would like to wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a safe, happy and prosperous 2025.
Christmas is a special time of the year, when we gather with our friends and family to celebrate the festive season and be thankful for our blessings.
For many it is a time of love and joy, a time for exchanging presents, eating endless amounts of food, and cricket in the backyard.
However, for some Christmas can unfortunately be a
lonely or stressful time. That’s why I encourage you to help someone in need, and reach out to those who may be alone or vulnerable.
The greatest gift you can give someone this festive season is the gift of kindness and friendship.
However you celebrate, I hope you have a wonderful Christmas full of goodwill and happiness.
Best wishes, Wendy Lovell Member for Northern Victoria
KNIGHT STREET DAYCARE... Pictured back row from left are Stevie, Millie, Jasper, and Sasha. Front row: Aeriella, Arianna and Marlee.
The entire Gagliardi Scott Real Estate team would like to take this special opportunity to wish their past, present and future clients a very Merry Christmas & a Safe, Healthy & Happy 2025.
MERRIGUM KINDERGARTEN
WHY CHOOSE LINEMASTA?
CHRISTMAS MESSAGE...
There’s tinsel on the trees, crowds in local shops and smiles on children’s faces – it’s Christmas and however you decide to celebrate, it’s a special time of year.
Our region has an endless range of goods and services on offer, and I encourage you to shop local this Christmas.
Buying locally means your gift supports local jobs and helps strengthen our community.
Being the Member for Nicholls is one of the best jobs anyone could have in the Parliament - the diversity of the people, the determination of the local business community, the sheer ‘goodness’ of what we produce, and the beauty of the landscape makes it easy to
constantly sing the praises of the region.
I continue to work collaboratively to ensure your voice is heard in Canberra, and that the Federal government understands what needs to happen to make our region thrive.
Don’t forget 2025 calendars are available from my office.
My office is here to help all constituents with Federal Government issues, so don’t hesitate to reach out.
My office will be closed from 5pm on December 20 and reopen on January 2. I hope you have a safe and happy holiday, filled with lasting memories with family and friends. I look forward to meeting with many of you in 2025.
Best wishes, Sam Birrell Federal Member for Nicholls
MERRIGUM KINDERGARTEN...
Pictured from left back row: Oliver, Daisy, Zara, Ollie, Xavier. Middle: Liam. Front row: Eva, Emerson and Elsie.
TIS’ THE SEASON TO BE ROADWISE
POLICE are pleading with motorists to prioritise road safety over Christmas and New Years as Operation Roadwise kicks off. The statewide road policing operation, which launched last Friday, will run for an extended 20-day period that will see police highly visible across Victoria’s major roads and arterials.
There will be a significant focus on impaired driving with police conducting widespread alcohol and drug testing every day throughout the operation.
Police conducted more than 300,000 preliminary breath tests and almost 9,000 roadside drug tests during last year’s Operation Roadwise.
Data shows December is the worst month of the year for drink drive offending,
underway, with police highly visible across major roads and popular holiday destinations.
Photo: Supplied
and to separate drinking and driving by planning ahead, arranging a designated driver or using alternative transport.
Operation Roadwise will see police highly visible on roads around coastal areas and popular holiday hotspots across regional Victoria.
With Boxing Day one of the busiest days for travel across the state, police are urging those hitting the roads to be patient, avoid distractions and take regular breaks to prevent fatigue.
To avoid receiving an infringement and having a costly Christmas, motorists are advised to obey the road rules and stick to the speed limits.
Police issued more than 19,000 traffic infringements during last year’s Operation
Christmas Merry
Murray, Mario & the team send best wishes to all their valued customers and friends and look forward to seeing you in the New Year.
CARPET COURT
biggest range of floor coverings
Shane & Dennis Myers & staff wish everyone a Merry Christmas & a Prosperous New Year and look forward to a safe and happy 2025 for all.
Kim O’KEEFFE MP
THE NATIONALS MEMBER FOR SHEPPARTON DISTRICT
This Christmas season, take time to enjoy the festive season and to create special memories with your loved ones.
You are also welcome to drop off gift donations to my office.
I am so very proud of the caring and giving communities in which we live and together we can make a meaningful difference. season and to
There are also many ways that we can spread the joy including supporting various charities and organisations dedicated to ensuring Christmas is a time of joy for all.
There are also many ways that we can spread the joy of Christmas dedicated to my office. in which we live
GUTHRIE STREET CHILDCARE
The Graham Hill Eyecare team would like to wish our entire community a
After
DON’T BE LONELY THIS CHRISTMAS
WHILE Christmas is portrayed as a magical time of gift-giving and revelry, many people can feel apprehensive about the holidays and impending New Year. What is seen as a time to be spent with friends and family can also be a challenging and lonely period—but it doesn’t have to be.
The GV Community Christmas Day Lunch will be held at the Shepparton Showground’s McIntosh Centre (corner of High and Thompson Streets, Shepparton) on December 25, 11am to 2pm, for people who find themselves alone and seeking
company on Christmas Day. This free service is run entirely by a volunteer committee who recruit a team of volunteers to assist them to provide lunch in a safe and friendly environment. Everyone is welcome, and many people choose to get involved and share in the spirit of Christmas by volunteering. Enquiries or bookings can be made by phoning 0456 125 237, or email cftavolunteer@gmail.com, or visit the ‘Christmas for Those Alone’ Facebook
GUTHRIE ST CHILDCARE... Pictured back row from left: Dominic, Sidhan, Levi, William, Anashe. Front row from left: Dodge, Zidane, Connor.
CHRISTMAS CHEER ARRIVES IN GREATER SHEPPARTON
FROM ‘Elfie Selfies’ to festive decorations and celebrations, Greater Shepparton City Council is spreading Christmas cheer with the launch of its Christmas campaign. Seeking to transform the region into a vibrant holiday destination while uniting the community and giving local businesses a boost, there are heaps of ways to celebrate in Greater Shepparton.
As part of this Christmas campaign, a variety of Santa statues and other festive decorations have been placed around local towns. Santa and his elves will also be moving around the region, giving families the chance to join in the fun and capture free festive photos.
To follow the festive trail, visit the Greater Shepparton Great Christmas webpage.
Santa’s Mailbox will be stationed at the Wyndham Street Post Office until Christmas Day so that children can post their letters to Santa.
Residents and visitors alike are encouraged to explore the unique offerings of Greater Shepparton’s local businesses. Community gift wrapping is available in the Shepparton City Central Arcade until December 24, between 10am and 4pm. Community groups are engaged in providing this service for a gold coin donation.
Mayor Councillor Shane Sali spoke highly of the campaign, with so many fun activities for families to enjoy while shopping locally.
“The Great Christmas Campaign is a fantastic way to celebrate the holiday season and support our local businesses,” he said.
“There’s something for everyone to enjoy, and we look forward to seeing families and visitors join in the festivities.”
To keep up to date with what is happening throughout December, visit https://christmas. greatthings.com.au/
FESTIVE TRAIL... Santa is on the move across the region, with a number of festive activations happening across Greater Shepparton in the lead up to Christmas. Visit the Greater Shepparton Great Christmas page to learn more. Photo: Supplied
21 Parker St, Shepparton 5821 3198
CHRISTMAS MESSAGE...
As the year comes to an end, I reflect on the past 12 months. It has been such an honour to represent the Shepparton District in State Parliament and to support my electorate.
I am continuing to embrace the role with the same commitment and determination that I have always done in serving our communities and my door is open.
It is a joy to be part of such a wonderful, caring and united region.
It is so important to support local businesses and those in need so that Christmas can be a joy for all. You can support many local Christmas charities and Christmas donations can be dropped into my office at 318 Wyndham Street, Shepparton.
This Christmas season, stop and make time for special memories with your loved ones and be safe during this holiday time.
AS the festive season approaches, it's important to keep our furry friends in mind while celebrating. Christmas can bring potential hazards for pets, but a little preparation can ensure everyone enjoys the holidays safely.
Watch Out for Toxic Treats
Many Christmas foods, such as chocolate, grapes and onions, are harmful to pets. Keep platters and sweet treats out of reach and be cautious with leftovers.
Secure the Tree
Cats love climbing Christmas trees, and dogs might be tempted to chew on decorations. Anchor your tree securely to prevent it toppling over and avoid hanging fragile or edible ornaments.
Avoid Tinsel and Ribbons
While shiny decorations may look fun, they can cause serious health issues if ingested. Opt for pet-friendly décor and supervise pets around holiday decorations.
Provide a Quiet Space
With visitors and celebrations, pets might feel overwhelmed. Ensure they have a quiet, comfortable spot to retreat to when needed.
By taking these steps, you can create a joyful and safe environment for your pets this Christmas.
HAVE A MERRY CHRISTMAS... Greater Shepparton City Council and many of its services close over Christmas. An emergency after-hours ranger will be deployed to deal with any animal-related emergencies, while staff will continue to care for animals at the animal shelter. If you have an enquiry, call the after-hours service on (03) 5832 9700. Photo: Supplied
ANIMAL SERVICES OVER CHRISTMAS
DURING the Christmas period, Greater Shepparton City Council and many of its services will close for the holidays. Council offers an emergency after-hours ranger service during the Christmas closure, from 3pm on Tuesday, December 24, 2024, until 8.15am on Thursday, January 2, 2025.
The emergency after-hours ranger service helps deal with animal management emergencies, including livestock on Councilcontrolled roads, stray dogs, dog attacks, injured or sick animals, and other situations deemed by an authorised person to be an emergency.
To report an animal emergency, please contact Council on 5832 9700 and press 1.
Non-emergency situations such as reports of uncontained dogs, barking dogs and wandering cats will not be attended to by our after-hours service. Please report non emergencies by calling 5832 9700 when the Council office reopens on January 2, 2025.
One Ranger from the Animal Management Department will work on Friday, December 27, Monday, December 30, and Tuesday, December 31, 2024, between 8.15am and
5.00pm. The Ranger will be responsible for collecting contained dogs, attending urgent calls, investigating dog attacks, seizing animals, issuing seizure notices, releasing animals from the shelter if no Authorised Officers are working at the shelter, and dealing with situations that cannot wait until January 2, 2025.
During the holiday period, the Shepparton Animal Shelter will also close to the public at 12pm on Friday, December 27, reopening on January 2, 2025, at 10am. Shelter staff will continue to care for all animals at the shelter during this period.
For any shelter enquiries during this time, please call the After Hours service on (03) 5832 9700. If you have lost your animal or believe your animal may be at the Animal Shelter, please leave your details with the After Hours service.
If your animal is at the Animal Shelter and is microchipped with all microchip details current and correct, a Ranger will contact you between Friday, December 27 and Tuesday, December 31 to arrange an appointment for collection.
motion sickness
HOLIDAY PLANNING WITH PETS
BEING a pet owner means careful preparation to ensure that your dogs, cats or other pets are safe, comfortable and well-cared for if you go away. Here are some tips that may help if you plan on heading away over Christmas.
Taking pets on a road trip
• Pre-trip preparation – Arrange a vet check to ensure all vaccinations, flea, tick and worm treatments are up-todate, and discuss motion sickness or anxiety with your vet if necessary.
• Microchip and ID tags – Make sure your pet’s microchip details are current and their ID tags include your mobile number.
• Packing list – Include food, water, bowls, leash,
bedding, favourite toys, waste bags, grooming supplies and any medications.
Plan pet-friendly stops and accommodation
• Pet-friendly accommodation – Research and book dogfriendly hotels, caravan parks or Air BnB stays.
• Rest breaks – Schedule stops every 2-3 hours for bathroom breaks, water and exercise.
• Local rules – Check leash laws and dog restrictions at beaches, parks and trails.
Car safety
• Use a pet-friendly seatbelt, harness or crate to keep your pets secure
• Avoid feeding animals right before driving to prevent
• Never leave pets alone in the car, especially in summer. Emergency preparedness and general holiday tips
• Locate nearby vets along your route
• Carry a pet first-aid kit
• Avoid stress and try to stick to your pet’s usual routine as much as possible to reduce anxiety
• Keep festive dangers like Christmas decorations, chocolate and other hazards out of reach
• If you’ve been away, ease back into your normal routine to help your pets settle.
If you decide to leave pets at home, book a reputable kennel, pet hotel or pet sitters, or ask someone familiar to your pets, such as family or friends, to help care for them. Be sure to leave detailed instructions, contact details for your vet and yourself, and to stock up on food and other supplies for the duration of your stay. Keeping familiar items with your pet can help ease their anxiety in your absence.
HELP SUPPORT THE GOOD WORK OF ANIMAL RESCUE GROUPS
WITH cost-of-living pressures hitting harder than ever, new research from the Petbarn Foundation reveals this year’s festive season will be especially challenging for organisations like RSPCA and many other animal rescue groups. Facing unprecedented strain, these organisations are calling for critical support to continue their vital work of caring for pets and the people who rely on them.
brings together donations to help fund critical support for animal rescue groups, homeless pet owners and individuals facing domestic violence or mental health challenges.
Petbarn Foundation is aiming to raise $1.3M to support 90 pet-related charities through the Tree of Hope Appeal. Over the past decade, the campaign has raised over $5M for organisations supporting pets in need and the people that care for them.
Shockingly, in the lead up to Christmas, over four in five (81 per cent) of rescues are operating near capacity and are struggling under the weight of animals needing care— with limited space and resources.
To combat the widespread issue, Petbarn Foundations have launched their 2024 Tree of Hope Appeal, an annual campaign that
Running until Thursday, December 26, donations for The Petbarn Foundation Tree of Hope Appeal can be made online at petbarn. com.au/treeofhope or by purchasing a $3, $5 or $10 bauble at all Petbarn stores and Greencross Vets nationally.
GIVING HOPE... Animal rescue groups face immense pressure over the festive period. The 2024 Tree of Hope Appeal seeks to alleviate some of this strain to ensure every animal and their carer gets the best of care. Photo: Supplied
CHRISTMAS MESSAGE...
Christmas is a special time of the year where we celebrate the festive season with friends and family. Lots of presents, too much food and an afternoon nap on the couch, Christmas brings loved ones together to celebrate what is normally a joyful time of the year.
Unfortunately, Christmas can also be a lonely and sad time for some members of our community, so we must do what we can to spread some festive cheer to those less fortunate who may be doing it tough at this time.
Representing our community in State Parliament is a great honour and 2024 has certainly been a very busy year.
I am looking forward to celebrating this festive season with my family and friends and getting ready for another big year in 2025.
I wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a safe and happy New Year.
Best wishes,
PATRICIA SMITH KINDERGARTEN
Rikkie-Lee Tyrrell Member for Northern Victoria
PATRICIA SMITH KINDERGARTEN... Pictured from left in the front row: Charlotte, Carole, Shriya, Jugaad, Leah, Elif and Kensi. Middle row: Harper, Ishaanbir, Chanuth, Difan, Yuvraj, Greyzon and Ali. Back row: Nyra, Hargun, Mary, James, Toby, Parker, Benji, Zaidyn and Bryce.
COUNCIL SERVICES
OVER CHRISTMAS AND NEW YEAR
GREATER Shepparton City Council will close for the holidays from 3pm on Tuesday, December 24 and will reopen at 8.15am on Thursday, December 2, 2025.
Council’s Customer Service phone and email service will also be closed during this time. For urgent matters, residents can phone (03) 5832 9700 and follow the prompts to the after-hours phone.
The customer service counter will reopen Thursday, December 2, at 9am, with opening
Residents are advised that Greater Shepparton City Council will close for the holiday period from 3pm on December 24.
Photo: Supplied
hours remaining 9am to 4pm Monday to Friday.
Residents are reminded that their bin collection days will change over the Christmas and New Year period. Details in the table below. For further information, including opening and closing hours of council’s other services such as libraries, maternal and child health service, resource recovery centres, and more, go to Council’s website https://greatershepparton. com.au/sundries/xmas-hours or phone (03) 5832 9700.
CHURCH SERVICES
03 5891 2301 | 382-384 Wyndham Street Shepparton www.sheppartonconveyancingservices.com.au
ENCOUNTER
GVCF CHURCH
9 Pine Road Shepparton
• Sunday December 22nd - Christmas with us - celebration service 10.30AM
• Wednesday December 25th - 10 am service
ST. AUGUSTINE'S SHEPPARTON 95-97 Maude St, Shepparton
• Tuesday 24th December 5.30pm Crib Service
• Tuesday 24th December 11pm Midnight Mass
155 Verney Road, Shepparton
• Dec 14th "Light Devine" Christmas Carols 5.30pm.
• Dec 22nd Family Christmas Service 10am.
• Christmas Day Service 9am.
ST BRENDAN’S CATHOLIC CHURCH,
121 Knight Street, Shepparton
during the Christmas / New year period. A touch of Christmas from
80 Channel Rd,
• Monday, December 16, until Wednesday, December 24, daily 6am Misa de Gallo dawn Masses.
• Tuesday, December 24, 5.00pm Christmas Eve Children’s Mass.
• Tuesday, December 24, 6.30pm Christmas Eve Family Mass.
• Tuesday, December 24, 8.00pm SyroMalabar Mass.
• Tuesday, December 24, 11.00pm Christmas Eve Mass, including carols from 10.30pm.
• Wednesday, December 25, 8.00am Christmas Day Mass.
• Wednesday, December 25, 11.00am Christmas Day Mass.
ST MARY’S CATHOLIC CHURCH
93 Saddleback Road, Dookie
• Tuesday, December 24, 7.00pm Christmas Eve Mass.
• Sunday 22nd Dec, 10am - Carols service with lunch provided afterwards.
• Wednesday 25th Dec, 10am - Christmas Day service
• Wednesday, 25th December 8:30am Christmas Day Mass
SHEPPARTON UNITING CHURCH
134/140 Fryers St, Shepparton Christmas Service times
• ADVENT 4: 22nd December 9.30 a.m. service
• CHRISTMAS DAY: 25th December 9.30
DOOKIE UNITING CHURCH
Turnley St Dookie
• ADVENT 4: 22nd December 9.30 a.m. service (Shepparton and Dookie Uniting Churches)
• CHRISTMAS EVE: 24th December 5pm service Dookie Uniting Church
SHEPPARTON SALVOS Address: 99 Nixon Street Shepparton
Christmas Carol Service Sunday 22 December, 10.00am Followed by lunch together
• Christmas Celebration Christmas Day, 9.30am
ST PAUL'S LUTHERAN CHURCH, 54 Poplar Avenue, Shepparton
• Sunday 22nd December - 11am Service with Children's Nativity Play
• Tuesday 24th December - 7:30pm Lessons and Carols for Christmas Eve
• Wednesday 25th December - 11am Christmas Day service
FOR CHRISTMAS
ST MEL'S PARISH
18-22 Hamilton Street Shepparton
• 24 December - 6.30PM Family Mass - 9PM Christmas eve Vigil
• 25 December - 9.30AM - The Nativity of the Lord
EXCHANGE CHURCH
7580 Goulburn Valley Hwy, Shepparton
• Christmas Day Service Wednesday, December 25th 9:30am
ST ALBAN’S ANGLICAN, MOOROOPNA
9-17 Young St, Mooroopna
• Christmas Eve: 7pm Carols Service
• Christmas Day: 9.30am Holy Communion
SHEPPARTON PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
168 Hayes Street Shepparton
• Christmas Day service 9.30 am
KYABRAM PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
17 Church St, Kyabram
• Christmas Day service, Church street 9.30 am
SHEPPARTON CHURCH OF CHRIST
105 Corio St, Shepparton
• Christmas Day service at 9am on Wednesday 25 December.
CHRISTMAS RAFFLE
YOU DON’T WANT TO MISS
TAKE time out of the Christmas rush and enjoy a delicious meal with friends and loved ones, and maybe even win yourself an 85-inch TV.
The Shepparton Club is holding its Christmas Raffle on Friday, December 20, from 4pm. With a staggering $20,000 worth of incredible prizes to give away this is one you don’t want to miss.
1st Prize - Samsung 85-inch The Frame smart TV. 2nd Prize - Hisense 85-inch Mini LED Smart TV. 3rd Prize - Hisense 85-inch Smart TV and heaps of exciting tech and electronics, vouchers and much more just in time for Christmas.
Along with its incredible raffles and delectable lunches and dinners every day of the week, the Shepparton Club has bingo nights, courtesy bus, live music and a lot more to enjoy no matter which day of the week.
With a veritable treasure trove of prizes to be won, you can purchase your tickets online at https://pubandclub.co/ sheppartoncharityraffle, scan the QR or drop into the Shepparton Club at 455 Wyndham Street before 4pm, Friday, December 20, for a quiet drink and a scrumptious meal and the chance to share in the prizes. For bookings call 5831 4488.
CHRISTMAS RAFFLE... The Shepparton Club is holding its Christmas Raffle on Friday, December 20, from 4pm. For your chance to share in the staggering $20,000 worth of incredible prizes grab
Photo: Aaron Cordy
END THE YEAR WITH A BANG IN MOOROOPNA
HAPPY NEW YEAR... The Greater Shepparton/Mooroopna New Year’s Eve festival is on again. The free family-friendly event held at the Mooroopna Recreation Reserve from 6pm Tuesday, December 31. There will be a full carnival with rides, jumping castles, food and drink stalls and much more. Photo: Supplied
THE Greater Shepparton/Mooroopna New Year's Eve festival is on again. The Rotary Club of Mooroopna has been hosting the event for over 40 years and this year will be as big as ever.
To ensure this wonderful yearly event is successful, Rotary Club of Mooroopna is calling on volunteers to help with setup Sunday, Monday and Tuesday 9am to 12pm, on the night of the event and clean up on Wednesday 9am to 12pm. If you can only Volunteer for one or two days, or only for an hour, that’s no problem, all help will be greatly appreciated.
To volunteer email mooroopnanewyearseve@gmail.com or call Ken on 0408 253 501.
The free family-friendly event held at the Mooroopna Recreation Reserve
from 6pm Tuesday, December 31. Enter by the Midland Highway. With non-stop entertainment on stage starting with local artists including Steph & Lucy Ludlow, The Wong Bros, Kim Borlase, Anthony Tenace and SMAC.
There will be a full carnival with rides, jumping castles, food and drink stalls and much more. This is an alcohol-supplied event, with no BYO alcohol allowed.
At 10.30pm the Major Car Raffle for a Kia Sonic Sports car and three $1,000 runners-up will be drawn before the spectacular Fireworks display by Sky Candy.
If you wish to purchase tickets beforehand go to www.rotarymooroopna. com.au and follow the links.
Photo:
DELIGHTFUL SCENE Rushworth’s best dressed shop Christmas window was won by Wendy Everest Photo: Melanie Spencer COMMUNITY
Juliet ( made by Kylie Van Den Brink). Photo: Melanie Spencer
CHRISTMAS CARD COMPETITION
CWA JUNIOR BRANCH TO CELEBRATE 20 YEARS IN 2025
By Deanne Jeffers
EVERY year the state president of the Country Women's Association (CWA), Jenny Nola, sends Christmas cards to various organisations and people who assist the CWA throughout the year. This year she ran a competition for junior CWA members to create a Christmas-themed front cover for the state president’s Christmas card.
Sacred Heart student and junior member of the Rodney CWA branch, eight-year-old Nicola Tartaglia had the winning card design.
In addition to her artwork being the design of choice, Nicola was presented with a visual arts journal and Faber Castell watercolour pencils by Rodney CWA junior coordinator, Lyn Trezise, on behalf of the state president.
will celebrate its 20th anniversary. It is planning
to hold a reunion in February and are reaching out to past and current members to join in the celebration.
“20 years ago, we received an email asking if we would be interested in running a junior branch. It was discussed at our meeting and Gwen Ranson, and I decided we would try,” explained Lyn. “To this day we haven’t needed to advertise as the girls spread the word themselves.”
"It has been a very rewarding journey for me being their coordinator for the last 20 years,” she said. “The girls are taught how to run a meeting, take minutes, they do craft and cooking, and then they have supper to finish their night.”
The date and location of the Rodney CWA Junior Branch reunion are yet to be decided, but
CHRISTMAS CHEER… Eight-year-old Nicola Tartaglia from the Rodney CWA Junior branch has won the CWA state president’s Christmas card competition. Nicola is pictured with Rodney CWA junior coordinators, Lynda Della, Janice Barrette and Lyn Trezise. In February 2025, Rodney CWA are planning a reunion to celebrate 20 years of its junior branch. Photo: Deanne Jeffers
WINNER... Nicola Tartaglia’s winning Christmas card design for the CWA state president’s
