The Adviser 1393

INSIDE: ■ ■ ■ ■ ■

COMMUNITY CONNECT | page 6 Letters to the Editor | page 8 Adviser Travel | page 20 7 Day TV Guide | page 26 Sport Adviser | page 27

ACTION ON FRUIT FLY PAGE 16

HUNDREDS GLIMPSE QUEEN’S BATON PAGE 17

No 1:1393

$1M financial impact to offset waste cost GREATER Shepparton City Council may incur a potential financial impact of $1M per annum to accommodate for Chinese waste processing markets tightening.

W heelie Waste, who is currently contracted by council to undertake kerbside collection, also delivers recycled materials to Visy in Melbourne for processing, which Visy then sends on to Chinese markets for processing, but recently the access to these markets tightened considerably.

Continued on page 19

MEET MR C AND RUBY If It’s Got Wheels

DANCING SUCCESS RAISES FUNDS PAGE 21

WEDNESDAY FEBRUARY 21, 2018

PAGE 28

ADVERTISING HOTLINE: 5832 8900

Records smashed HIGH ACHIEVERS… Notre Dame College principal, John Cortese is praising students, teachers, parents and the community for the record breaking results that students received for last year’s VCE results. Photo: Alicia Niglia.

Notre Dame College students achieve top results for 2017

By David Lee ST U DEN TS at Notre Dame College (NDC) have achieved outstanding results in the Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE) Exams for 2017, results that haven’t

been reached at the college since data began to be compiled.

The college had a record number of 215 students sit their VCE Exams, with 18 students achieving an ATAR above 90, the

highest numbers ever recorded at NDC and twice the number of students than previous records.

Continued on page 16

NEWS

Prisoners get behind mud run event CONTACT US: Reception: Telephone: 5832 8900 Fax: 5832 8920 Address: Newspaper House, 219-225 Wyndham St, Shepparton, Victoria 3630 Editorial: editorial@sheppartonadviser.com.au Advertising: mspencer@sheppartonadviser.com.au Classifieds: classifieds@sheppartonadviser.com.au Production: production@sheppartonadviser.com.au www.sheppartonadviser.com.au facebook.com.au/SheppartonAdviser

CAB Audited to 31,809 homes, farms & businesses weekly on Wednesdays The Adviser is a member of the Victorian Country Press Association

The Goulburn and Murray Valleys’ largest circulating newspaper

By David Lee PRISONERS from Dhurringile Prison put their skills to good use recently, making nine of the 50 obstacles that will be part of the upcoming Zaidees Rainbow Foundation Mad Cow Mud Run event.

20 prisoners spent 11 days u nder supervision constructing obstacles for the event, including a rock climbing wall, ninja steps, a large hurdle, a guillotine jump, tyre hurdle, tyre tunnel, a hand and foot hurdle, spider web maze and a tyre chain swing.

As well as the nine obstacles made by the prisoners, the event will offer challenges such as swimming across the Broken River, a water slide, half pipe and full pipe, a tunnel crawl, cargo nets a-frame, a wooden a-frame, tyre shed, monkey bars, mud pits and a mud crawl to mention a few.

Zaidee’s Rainbow Foundation CEO, Allan Turner said, “The prisoners have done a great job and the obstacles have come up so well.

“This year we’re offering a 12km or 6km run for adults and 2km for the kid’s run and there will be many obstacles, so it was fantastic to have the assistance of the prison to help construct some of them.

“I’m looking forward to seeing how participants react to the obstacles…it’s going to be a fun day.”

Dhurringile Prison general manager, Colin Thompson said, “We lent a hand because we are all about giving back to the community and completing tasks such as this helps with the reintegration of the

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GIVING BACK TO THE COMMUNITY… From left, Dhurringile Prison industry manager, Geoff Orr, general manager, Colin Thompson, operations manager, Ian Thirkell, senior prison officer industries, Christian Jenner and Zaidee’s Rainbow Foundation CEO, Allan Turner at the rock climbing wall obstacle, which is one of nine obstacles that prisoners from Dhurringile Prison built for the upcoming Mad Cow Mud Run event. Photo: David Lee.

prisoners back into the community.

“The enthusiasm of the prisoners was incredible. This really gave them the chance to utilise skills that they are learning in the prison and even to pick up a few more skills.”

Registrations open at 7am on the day

(Saturday, March 3) with first wave runners starting at 7:30am until 10:30am for adults, and kids running from 11am to 1:30pm followed by three and four years old at 2pm. For further information on the event or for register, visit www.madcowmudrun. com.au

NEWS

“Talk is cheap and people want action”

By David Lee THE Liberal Party is confident that they will have a chance to take the seat in Shepparton at the upcoming election, with State Leader for the Liberal Party, Matthew Guy telling The Adviser that there has been enough talk about what Shepparton needs and now is time for action.

While he was in town announcing the opening of the party’s pre-selection nomination process, Mr Guy said that the party’s focus would be on education, health, continuing the work of the Population Taskforce and transport, including the bypass and rail.

Mr Guy said, “The Liberal Party hasn’t stood here (in Shepparton) since 2006 and we will put our best foot forward.

“It will be a hotly contested seat. There will be an Independent, The Labour Party, The Liberal Party and The Nationals, so Shepparton voters will be spoilt for choice.

“Locally, I think there is a keen focus on the railway and the condition and quality of the rail service. From our point of view Shepparton in the same prism that you would view Ballarat and Bendigo, so we view it as a major regional

city that needs to have services attached to that. And of course health is another important aspect that we have on our minds.

“We’ve had a Population Taskforce that has been around for two years that has been to Shepparton three times and we now have a local taskforce which has been doing a good job at looking at decentralising Melbourne’s growth to areas in regional Victoria.

“There are also state-wide issues that will be our focus such as crime, law and order and the cost of living. We will have a little bit more to talk about when it comes to electricity in the near future too.

“We are keen to stand. We have changed the way our party campaigns. We’ve done a lot of work locally and put a lot of effort into finding candidates. I am very confident that we will be putting to the people of Shepparton a very good quality candidate for them to choose from. This is a unique time for this city.

“From the bypass to the trains to the schools, there is a lot of interest in what is happening in Shepparton, and this election will provide Shepparton with the chance to put its list of ideas and needs forward.

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S LIBERALS HAVE EYE ON SEAT… State Leader for the Liberal Party, Matthew Guy and Member for Northern Victoria, Wendy Lovell in Shepparton last week. Photo: David Lee.

“There has been a lot of talk about what’s happening, but talk is cheap and people want action,” Mr Guy said.

Member for Northern Victoria, Wendy Lovell said, “There was $10M put aside in the last state budget for a little bit of planning for the bypass, but the City of Greater Shepparton have been asking for $20M to complete the planning process so we are looking for a little bit more.

“I have a lot of things that I want to see happen for Shepparton and will be continuing to work hard to make sure they are on the agenda.”

Committee focuses on region’s education

By David Lee A FOCUS on education was expressed at the Committee for Greater Shepparton’s (C4GS) Annual General Meeting (AGM) and dinner on Thursday last week, where the committee heard from Minister for Education, James Merlino on the Shepparton Education Plan and the Super School.

During the AGM the committee saw two board members retire from their positions, Rebecca Wolstencroft and Peter Gray and Rob Priestly was re-elected as chair, Lesley Hart was elected deputy chair, and there was the election of two new board members, Jane Macey from Spiire and former director of the Kelly Communications Group, Scott Kelly.

C4GS CEO, Sam Birrell said, “During the AGM Dinner, over 90 members and some leaders in the education sector in Shepparton attended. We had Minister for Education,

James Merlino speak on the Education Plan for Shepparton and the Super School plan.

“The minister spoke about his commitment to the plan and was very pleased to receive the recommendation from the advisory committee and is keen to work towards making it a reality.

He also discussed the possibility of a new Tech School in Shepparton and how important STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths) is for the future of the Goulburn Valley region and the business that are here.

“We’re strong advocates for the Education Plan.

“Afterward Minister Merlino spoke, the committee’s chair, Rob Priestly outlined the business confidence in Shepparton, the fact that we are an export town and that with government investment in infrastructure to help us along, we can continue to provide Victoria with solid export earnings.”

The Adviser. Australia No. 1:1393 Wednesday, February 21, 2018 – Page 3

NEWS

New GMW working group members inducted

Pillar of business community remembered Hundreds gathered together on Monday to pay respect to and farewell a pillar of the local business community, Stewart Lynas who sadly passed away last week. Many know Stewart through his years at Purdeys Jewellers. Please see next week’s edition of The Adviser for more on Stewart’s life and involvement in the local community. Pictured, Stewart Lynas and his wife, Pam. Photo: Supplied.

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G OU L BU R N -M U R R AY Water (GM W ) recently inducted 55 community members of new working groups that have been established to help carry out major projects.

The groups will assist with the Goulburn-Murray Irrigation District Asset 25-Year Strategy and the Tariff and Pricing Strategy, both of which are major projects arising from GMW’s Strategic Plan, released in September last year. The outcomes of this work will feed into the Essential Services Commission review of GMW price structure from 2020.

Members include representatives from catchment management authorities, other water organisations that are urban water customers, ‘retail’ customers, environmental water holder customers and community members from across the region. Members of some of GMW’s Water Services Committees have joined the working groups as well.

GMW managing director, Pat Lennon said the next pricing submission is due in August 2019, and the new ESC requirements and previous submissions had shown the importance of early, transparent and genuine engagement with customers.

“We are delivering on a theme that was touched on a number of times during the lead-up to our updated Strategic Plan – that was the commitment to inviting our customer base to the table to have a genuine opportunity to have input and influence on important decisions,” Pat said.

“My thanks to each of the members of our working groups for being so committed to GMW’s outcomes, and more importantly, outcomes for all of our customers.”

NEWS

Local joins hay convoy to offer knowledge and technology

By David Lee BETTER ways to get use out of fodder on farms in drought affected areas was the main focus of local, Mark Lewis from Alltech Keenan Shepparton and the business’ Bendigo nutritionist, Donal Blackwell and Tennyson engineer, Andrew Mitchel, when the group lent their knowledge and technology to the Burrumbuttock Hay Run appeal.

Beginning in 2013 by organiser, Brendan Farrell, the Burrumbuttock Hay Run is a charitable event organised to supply hay and fodder to drought affected livestock communities in NSW and Queensland.

The team from Keenan joined the hay convoy at Darlington Point on the evening of Thursday, January 26, which had departed with over 160 loads of hay, arriving at the showgrounds in Cunnamulla, south west Queensland that evening before dark.

Mark, Donal and Andrew said, “Brendan asked us along with the Keenan mixer wagon technology because he appreciates that farmers need to be adding value solutions and be educated about new technologies that

ASSISTING FARMERS… Alltech Keenan Shepparton, sales, Mark Lewis, Bendigo nutritionist, Donal Blackwell and Tennyson engineer, Andrew Mitchel joined the Burrumbuttock Hay Run convoy last month to take their knowledge and technology to assist drought affected farmers in Queensland.

Photo: Supplied.

add value and make better use of their fodder on-farm.

“Keenan mixers are unique in that they can process forage in a format that minimises sorting of different feeds and also allows stock to be maintained with less feed intake, meaning farmers can get more from less when resources are tight.

“The convoy (up to 10km long) passed through Griffith, Hillston, Cobar, Bourke and onto Cunnamulla.

“Being Australia Day many locals on the route came out to greet and cheer on the group with a large crowd of over 1,000 people (some travelling hundreds of kilometres) to meet the convoy at Cunnamulla.

“One could see the effects of protracted drought in the region with just dust to be seen in many livestock paddocks where hay was being supplemented.

“On Saturday we provided the facility to mix feeds (hay and straw) and talked with farmers in the region about drought feeding strategies.

“They were so friendly and appreciative to have had us there.”

Off duty officer dies following Shepparton collision POLICE have confirmed that Acting Sergeant Gavin Sproule was the off duty police officer who tragically died following a two-car collision in Shepparton on Saturday night.

The collision occurred at the intersection of Verney Road and Nightingale Way just after 9pm.

Investigators believe that a vehicle travelling on Nightingale Way turned right onto Verney

Road and collided with a Toyota utility.

The driver of the utility, the 37-year-old Kialla man, was airlifted to a Melbourne hospital but unfortunately died on arrival.

The female driver of the other vehicle was conveyed to a local hospital with minor injuries.

The loss brings the total number of lives lost on our roads to 29, two up from the same time last year.

The Adviser. Australia No. 1:1393 Wednesday, February 21, 2018 – Page 5

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EVENTS

COMMUNITY CONNECT UPCOMING T H E W E SL EYA N M ET HODI S T CHURCH is holding an inaugural meeting at the Masonic Centre on Welsford Street, Shepparton from 10am on Wednesday, February 28. The speaker will be revered, Ian Davey. All interested people are welcome. For further information, phone Chris on 0414 906 617.

A FASHION SHOW will be held at The Salvation Army Shepparton on the corner of Nixon and Orr Street at 2pm on Saturday, March 3. $7 admission per person with all proceeds going to supporting people experiencing homelessness in Australia.

Includes afternoon tea. See https://is.gd/ karyn2018 or contact 5821 2666 for more information.

ONGOING GRANDPARENTS SUPPORT GROUP meet on the first Thursday of each month from 10am to 12 noon at the Shepparton Family Relationship Centre, 68 Wyndham Street in Shepparton. For information, phone 5820 0444.

THE PROBUS CLUB OF SHEPPARTON INC. meets on the second Tuesday of the month at 9:30am at the African House, 54 Poplar Avenue. For ladies and men, retired or semi-retired. Add zest to your lifestyle.

For enquiries, phone Kevin on 5822 2673 or Marie on 5831 5256.

PFLAG SHEPPARTON we are a group of parents, family and friends of gay, lesbian and bisexual people who meet regularly to offer support and friendship to families and

particularly parents. For more information, phone Glenys 0409 626 647 or email info@ pflagshepparton.org.au SING AUSTRALIA GROUPS Shepparton meets Tuesdays from 7:30pm to 9:30pm at the Baptist church Shepparton (except school holidays). To participate in singing (no auditions needed), contact Meryl on 5831 2202 or 0418 578 369. Also on the Sing Australia website www.singaustralia.com.au GROW GROUP; Struggling with depression, anxiety, grief, relationship troubles or coping with everyday life? Know someone who is? Grow groups meet weekly to offer peer support and use a proven program for mental wellness. All welcome, no cost. Shepparton – Wednesdays 1pm at 11 Service Street, South Shepparton. Cobram – Thursdays 7pm at Moira Education Centre, O’Dwyer Avenue.

Benalla – Mondays 10:30am at Waminda Community House, 19 Ballintine Street. For further information, contact Lindy on 0448 052 769.

MOOROOPNA CROQUET CLUB (behind the bowls club) will host Golf Croquet. We play a fun game of Golf Croquet on Thursday afternoons at 1:30pm. First afternoon free.

Free lessons on how to play the game. Flat closed in shoes. Equipment provided. Come on Saturday afternoon at 1:30pm for a more challenging game of Association Croquet.

Beginners are always welcome. For further information, phone 5825 4541.

GV CHRONIC PAIN Support Group meets on the third Wednesday of every month from 1pm to 2:30pm at Primary Care Connect, 399 Wyndham Street, Shepparton. Come along

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For more information on how to register for your Community Connect listing contact The Adviser via email at classifieds@sheppartonadviser.com.au Please note listings are to be 55 words or less.

and share in support. For more information, email gvcpsg@gmail.com or phone 0458 510 416 between 10am and 4pm.

FREE BREAKFAST FOR EVERYONE at St Georges Road Post Office and Milkbar, 102 St Georges Road, Shepparton from Monday to Friday from 7am to 9am.

SHEPPARTON CHESS CLUB Inc. meet at Shepparton Access, 227 Wyndham Street Shepparton every Saturday at 1pm. Entry only through back door. New members are welcome. Adults $3 per day, juniors $1.50.

Tea and coffee is provided.

GET ACT I V E SHEPPA RTON provides free exercise classes for all ages and levels of fitness every Sunday morning at the hill next to Aquamoves at 8:30am to 9:30am.

Contact David on 0419 332 422 or visit the Facebook page “Get Active Shepparton” for more details.

SHEPPARTON TOASTMASTER is a public speaking and leadership development club that builds self-confidence. Meet at Shepparton Access, 227 Wyndham Street, Shepparton on the first and third Tuesday every month.

For more information, see http://shepparton. toastmastersclubs.org/ MOOROOPNA PROBUS CLUB meets on the first Monday of each month from 10am to 12 noon followed by lunch at a selected venue.

We have guest speakers at our meetings, and during the month we have outings such as a walk, breakfast at McDonalds, visits to interesting places and a lunch at a local venue.

For further information, contact secretary, George Vearing on 5825 3193 or president, Margaret Campbell on 0439 118 842.

MOOROOPNA CROQUET CLUB will host golf croquet on Thursday afternoons at 1:30pm. First afternoon is free. Flat closed-in shoes are required and equipment is provided.

Come on Saturday afternoon at 1:30pm for a more challenging game of association croquet.

Beginners are always welcome. For further information, phone 5825 4541.

SHEPPARTON CROQUET CLUB invites everyone interested in learning to play Association or Golf Croquet, to come along and enjoy and learn this fun game for all ages. All equipment is supplied. Please wear flat soled shoes. Golf Croquet Saturday afternoons: please arrive at 12:45pm for a 1pm star t. Other options are Tuesday morning - Association and Golf Croquet.

Friday morning - Golf Croquet only. Saturday morning - Association Croquet only - All the above morning games please arrive at 9am for a 9:30am start. For more information, phone Margaret Gleeson on 5821 4416 regarding Golf Croquet and Gwen Denison on 5821 5446 regarding Association Croquet.

SHEPPARTON ACTIVITIES run throughout the week. There is cards from 1pm to 3pm on Mondays, over 55s activities from 9:30am to 11am on Tuesdays, a concert from 1:30pm to 3:15pm on the last Thursday of the month and cards from 1pm to 3pm on Friday.

New members are welcome. For further information, phone 5821 4384.

Tell us about your ‘not for profit’ community events, email classifieds@sheppartonadviser. com.au or fax 5832 8920 (information is required at least 2 weeks before an event)

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The Adviser. Australia No. 1:1393 Wednesday, February 21, 2018 – Page 7

LETTERS

OPINION

Letters to the Editor

DISHEARTENING DISPLAY OF BEHAVIOUR Dear Editor, Over the weekend, I witnessed one of the most disheartening displays of human behaviour I have ever seen. I had just finished shopping at a local supermarket and was returning the trolley to the bay. I had noticed a homeless person sitting out the front on my way in who was sitting right beside the trolley bay. Before I had the chance to return the trolley, a young man approached the homeless man and bent down to snatch his bag of money that he had obviously spent all day collecting.

I am not normally one to interfere with such circumstances, but as I was standing so close I reached over and grabbed the young man’s arm, telling him to drop the bag. The homeless man was in shock and before we could do anything further the young man flung the bag into the air, scattering the homeless man’s coins.

The young man then took off, turning around and calling the homeless man a scab…and it was at that point I noticed the young man had a brown paper bag in his hand containing a bottle of alcohol.

Seeing such behaviour on its own was terrible, but then seeing that this young man walking the streets of Shepparton drinking without a care for others made it even worse.

While I was pleased that I was able to help the homeless man, I hope to never see such disgusting acts ever again.

Yours sincerely, David James Shepparton

WE NEED TO RESTORE SOME PRIDE TO OUR TOWN Dear Editor, I would like to follow up the comments made by I Hay in a Letter to the Editor in The Adviser’s February 7 edition “We need to work on making our town better.”

I wonder what our council is doing with regard to enforcing its own bylaws?

The town does look shabby and it won’t improve while people are allowed to treat our roads and streets as a rubbish tip.

There are unregistered and burned-out wrecks on nearly every road and street in the town.

There seems to be a ‘pop up’ wrecking yard, on every entrance to our town.

This also includes Doyles Road, Archer Street, Mitchell Street, Campbell Street and Vaughan Street.

These yards have so many vehicles that they can’t store them on the premises, but need to use the roads and surrounding council land to keep them, and to pull them apart, and to dump their car parts.

Aside from this council allows storage of cars both registered and unregistered on the nature strips all over Shepparton.

If we can’t take the time to tidy these streets up and restore some pride in our town, we will continue to spiral downward and nobody will want to visit

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We welcome letters to the Editor but they are not guaranteed to be included and may be edited for reasons of style or content. Letters will not be eligible for consideration if they contain defamatory material, or information of a personal nature which is not in the public domain.

Shepparton. Our real estate will continue to be underpriced and no one will want to purchase a home to live or to work here.

Yours sincerely, B Phillips Shepparton

WAS IT PLANNED? Dear Editor, My question to Minister Barnaby Joyce would be was it a planned pregnancy?

If the answer was yes then leave the man alone. He is very little, if any different to most of the politicians and we can’t crucify them all.

But, if the answer was no, then we as a nation are far deeper in the mine than I would have believed.

So lets hope for all our sakes that it was planned.

Incidentally, using the front page of the paper I was reading, I was able to swat an annoying fly, so maybe all is not lost.

Yours sincerely, Tony Bell Mooroopna

SOMETHING NEEDS TO BE DONE ABOUT THE WEEDS Dear Editor, It’s hardly surprising to see Terry Court (The Adviser on January 24 edition) warning that Caltrop (bindii) is again out of control.

The dried, spikey seeds easily puncture tyres on bikes, baby’s prams and disability

scooters, and are extremely hard on animal paws. It is likely they cause infection in paws of many soft pawed native animals.

Not only has bindii invaded the nature strips in most local towns it is rapidly invading our national parks, weeds have taken over our public lands since the city centric Labour and Coalition Governments abandoned the ‘Lands Department’ in the 1980s and it seems neither of these governments have much interest in country Victoria.

C o u n c i l s a n d o t h e r g ov e r n m e n t authorities don’t seem to be taking enough responsibility to eradicating weeds. There is a thick carpet of bindii along the Sandridge track near Buck Sandhill in Barmah National Park. It seems the managers of Barmah National Park have no problem allowing this intrusive, noxious weed to invade this significant Bangerang burial site.

Parks Victoria’s plan a few years ago seemed to be to spray weeds a few yards each side of the main tracks to keep weeds away from the public’s eye, but unfortunately it seems they now have abandoned even that meagre effort.

Yours sincerely, Graeme Barwick Numurkah Want to have your say?

Email your letters to the Editor to editorial@sheppartonadviser.com.au.

Max 100 words

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The Adviser. Australia No. 1:1393 Wednesday, February 21, 2018 – Page 9

NEWS

Helping you be ‘that’ business

SAY HELLO TO THE TEAM… Telstra Business Centre Information Communication Technology (ICT) business development manager, David Anderson, regional sales manager, Tim Sali and business consulting specialist, Don Atkinson. Photo: Alicia Niglia.

IN every walk of life, having systems in place tend to make things easier. When it comes to business systems, Telstra Business Centre has their finger on the pulse of the latest, simplest and most effective strategies and equipment for streamlining business success.

Telstra Business Centre regional sales manager, Tim Sali said, “I’d like to welcome two new members to the team, David Anderson and Don Atkinson. David and Don are specialised business consultants who are

experts at growing customer’s businesses, mobilizing their teams and protecting their data. At Telstra Business Centre we will help you get the best out of your business and be sure to set your Business in the right direction.”

Speak to the team at Telstra Business Centre.

You can find them at 114-116 Wyndham Street, Shepparton. Call 5820 7040 to book your appointment and they can help you be “that” business.

Apply directly to boost your education IT IS not too late to enrol for university education in 2018, with La Trobe University’s Shepparton campus offering classes starting in March, accommodation options, and a Tertiary Enabling Program for those needing a pathway into tertiary studies.

Full time and part time study options are available in the Bachelor of Educational Studies, Bachelor of Arts, Diploma of Arts, Bachelor of Business, Bachelor of Business (Accounting), Bachelor of Business (Agribusiness), Diploma in Business and Bachelor of Human Services/Master of Social Work.

Post graduate options are also available for those with a relevant existing degree or managerial experience – such as a Master of Business Administration (MBA).

La Trobe University marketing and engagement advisor, Kristina Marko said, “It’s not too late to apply for tertiary study in 2018.

“Applications can be made directly to the university

through our website. We look toward previous study, relevant work or community experience and a student’s motivation for commencing a course, as part of the application process.”

For those who are returning to study after work or raising a family – or those who need a pathway into university education – La Trobe University offers a oneyear Diploma in Business or Arts, as well as the Tertiary Enabling Program (TEP).

Second year nursing student, Fabrice Ebe commenced a Bachelor of Nursing after completing the TEP at the Shepparton campus in 2016.

“Here, I feel the campus is well organised and there is a lot of support. Its home,” Fabrice said.

Schedule a chat at our Shepparton campus and forge ahead with confidence. To book a one-on-one consultation, visit www.latrobe.edu.au/choose Direct Applications close March 11, 2018.

If thIs ad Is so Important, why’s It so small?

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Over 150,000 Victorians have cancer. Our job at the Cancer Council Helpline is to provide as much help and support as these people need.

Which doesn’t leave much money to publicise the service. But you can help. If you know someone that needs our help, please ask them to give us a call and speak to a cancer nurse.

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NEWS

A warm welcome to new doctors CON VENIENTLY located on Maude Street in Shepparton, only a block from the centre of town, Wyndham House Clinic have been providing quality medical care to the people of Shepparton and surrounding areas for over 70 years.

Wyndham House Clinic welcomes three new doctors to the team. Dr Mala Gupta has a special interest in women’s health and mental health, Dr Thet Thiri Nwe is passionate about working with families throughout their lifetime, women’s heath and geriatric care and Dr Hasanthi Tennakoon has a special interest in geriatric and general medicine.

Shepparton has grown into a very multicultural community over the last

decade and in recognition of this Wyndham House Clinic now has a group of doctors who represent many of these cultures including their long standing Australian born doctors who continue to have a very loyal patient base.

As a standard at Wyndham House Clinic, all children under 16 are bulk billed and there is a substantial discount for pensioners or health care card holders. There is also ample patient parking either on the street or in their car park at the rear of the building.

V isit Wy nd ha m House C l i n ic at 96 Maude Street, Shepparton, phone 582 0 3 4 0 0 or b o ok on l i ne w w w. wyndhamhouseclinic.com.au

SERVICING THE BROADER COMMUNITY… Wyndham House Clinic welcomes new doctors, Dr Hasanthi Tennakoon, Dr Mala Gupta and Dr Thet Thiri Nwe to the team. Photo: Alicia Niglia.

Sheed welcomes solar farm advisory panel INDEPENDENT Member for Shepparton District, Suzanna Sheed has welcomed the Victorian Government’s decision to ‘call in’ four local planning applications for solar farms.

Minister for Planning, Richard Wynne last week announced he would appoint an independent panel to assess the applications at Congupna, Lemnos, Tallygaroopna and Tatura East after Greater Shepparton City Council requested he step in.

Ms Sheed said while it was usually preferable for councils to determine planning applications in their own municipality, the complexity of assessing solar projects in agricultural districts called for additional support.

Ms Sheed said she had raised her concerns with the minister

and urged the government to address the lack of relevant guidelines.

“While the Greater Shepparton area enjoys plentiful sunshine year round, making it an ideal location for solar farms, it is also home to the prime agricultural land at the heart of our economy,” Ms Sheed said.

“It is important that we find a balance between renewable energy investment and the sustainable future of our farming industry.

“An independent panel will bring welcome expertise to the decision-making process and enable all parties to be heard in an appropriate forum.”

Ms Sheed said she was pleased the panel would also provide broader advice on how future solar farm projects would be assessed in Victoria.

“Renewable energy is a rapidly growing sector and I expect we will see increasing numbers of applications for solar farms across the state,” Ms Sheed said.

“If you combine that with the significant proportion of land used for agricultural purposes, there will no doubt be other councils in Victoria facing similar challenges to ours.

“I would hope the findings of this expert panel will support all councils in setting region-specific planning strategies for solar farms for the benefit of their individual communities.”

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NEWS

Women: designed - not defined T H IS International Women’s Day the Greater Shepparton Women’s Charter Alliance Advisory Committee (GSWCAAC) is inviting the community to enter into a special world of celebration and originality during a special ‘women: designed – not defined’ event early next month.

The community will have the chance to experience what it’s truly like to ‘think global and act local’ as recognition is paid to the passion, resilience and leadership of women both around the world, as well as

within the local community.

G S WC A AC cha r ter cha mpion , C r Seema Abdullah said, “Let’s strengthen the dream for a better tomorrow together by expressing our expectations for a future of gender equity, freedom and respect for all.

Together, we will realise we all have the power to re-design the definition of what it means to be a woman in today’s society.

“All are welcome for the exciting evening.

Join us as we explore through the rhythms of music, laughter, life stories and local

food.”

The free event will be held on Thursday, March 8 from 5:30pm at the Shepparton Swans Football and Netball Clubrooms, Quinan Parade Shepparton and light catering is available.

Bookings are essential and can be made at www.designednotdefined.eventbrite.com.au For further information, contact Kristie Welch during business hours on (03)5832 9472 or email women@shepparton.vic.gov. au

CELEBRATING WOMEN… From left, Greater Shepparton Women’s Charter Alliance Advisory Committee (GSWCAAC) charter champion, Cr Seema Abdullah and the 2017 recipient of the GSWCAAC Award, Lisa McKenzie at the 2017 International Women’s Day celebration. Photo: Supplied.

Dampness an enemy of houses and apartments DAMP internal conditions within houses and apartments are a cause for concern, and if left untreated can lead to health problems and structural issues.

Archicentre Australia’s advisory service says reasonable circulation of air should be maintained to prevent stale air, excessive humidity and build-up of condensation.

Archicentre Australia director, Peter Georgiev said, “This can occur in all homes but apartments are particularly at risk, especially in situations where occupants may not open windows.

“Natural ventilation is more difficult to achieve in higher density living situations, especially when apartments are locked up for hours on end.

“That said, sufficient attention is not often given to ventilation in the design of apartments or higher density residential situations.”

Circulation of air prevents the accumulation of stale air,

excessive humidity and condensation, all of which may affect health and cause materials to deteriorate.

Long periods of internal stagnant, moist conditions will encourage the growth of mould.

Moulds are living organisms and reproduce by releasing spores into the atmosphere, similar to mushrooms. The spores from certain types of mould can cause asthma, bronchitis and recurrent colds and influenza in some people.

Peter says mould growth should always be considered potentially harmful and should be eradicated.

“Mould growth must be removed first before prevention methods are introduced otherwise the mould problem could get worse. You can eradicate mould by cleaning it with white vinegar or chloride-based cleaners.”

As well as ensuring natural ventilation, items such as stoves, clothes dryers and showers should be well vented to the outside of the dwelling.

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Bathrooms, laundries and kitchen sinks are naturally wet areas, and current regulations require an impervious finish to all surfaces exposed to water, from shower bases and walls, bath surrounds and basin or sink splashbacks.

Ceramic tiles fulfil this function well, Peter says, as long as certain features are maintained.

Peter said, “Ensure adequate waterproof seals around shower screens, fixtures and shower bases. Check for cracked or drummy tiles and loose or missing grout in showers, bath surrounds and splashbacks.

“Water penetrating behind tiles will encourage the development of timber rot to the wall framing or can lead to timber pest infestation.

“Water resistant structural flooring can deteriorate rapidly with serious loss of structural stability under prolonged exposure to water. Repair all leaks quickly to avoid further deterioration.”

NEWS

Successful swimming program ‘kicks’ off again

FRIENDLY SERVICE AND ADVICE… Cellarbrations Mooroopna liquor manager, Geoff Thomson has his hands on some excellent deals.

Photo: Alicia Niglia.

Geoff will look after you ENJOYING a drink with friends can be an especially nice way to finish off a stressful week and right now, Cellarbrations in Mooroopna have some extra great deals on offer.

Cellarbrations Mooroopna liquor manager, Geoff Thomson said, “As a standard we have great prices on wines and spirits here at Cellarbrations and with our current catalogue sale, the savings just get better. To start with, we have a great deal on slabs of Tooheys extra dry for just $42, 10 packs of Jim Beam

for $36 and a four bottle buy deal on Penfolds Rawson’s Retreat varieties for just $6.90 a bottle.

“At Cellarbrations, we’ve got a great range of wines and spirits in store and if we don’t have what you’re looking for, we’ll do our best to order it in.”

Drop into Cellarbrations at 94-96 McLennan Street, Mooroopna and speak to Geoff for some great advice about excellent value wines. Phone 5825 2266.

By David Lee DUE to the success of last year’s program, the Kick Start Swimming program officially ‘kicked’ off in Shepparton recently.

Running at Aquamoves, the Kick Start is a skill-based program where swimmers learn at their own level, teaching techniques from basic freestyle right up to skill development in all strokes and fitness work.

Swimming Victoria membership development, Sal Cuming said, “We were pleased to see how successful the program was in Shepparton last year.

“Coach, Monica Hurley is excellent and has a great way of coaching swimming and making the sessions fun.

“Most of our participants had varying ranges of swimming skills and loved being coached and taught the right way to swim.

“Often participants are wanting stroke development and fitness, which is what Monica delivers.

“Swimming Victoria is thrilled to be able to deliver this program locally as it is great to have a swim program for adults. Why should kids have all the fun!”

Kick Start Swimming Shepparton runs from 6:45am to 7:45am every Tuesday morning through to March 27 and costs $105 for eight sessions, $84 for six sessions or $15 casually.

Bookings can be made via www.trybooking.com/book/ event?eid=348777& For further information, contact Sal Cuming at sal. cuming@vic.swimming.org.au

The Adviser. Australia No. 1:1393 Wednesday, February 21, 2018 – Page 13

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The final Kilmore Country Music Festival 2018

A DAY TO REMEMBER… ‘The Cartwheels’ will be a part of the entertainment at the 2018 Kilmore Country Music Festival. Photo: Supplied.

SATURDAY, March 3, 2018 will see the Kilmore festival hold its final show. This will be the 17th show and it is with regret that the committee had to announce this news.

Due to costs involved with the running of the show, it was decided that this year would be a one day event to farewell the festival.

The day will commence at The Royal Oak Hotel from 1pm to 3pm, featuring Becky Hance, then a short stroll down the street to Mac’s Irish pub 4pm to 6pm with Cameron Mason. Both these shows will be free entry.

Saturday evening will begin at 7:30pm at Trackside in the betting shed and will go through until 11:30pm. This is a ticketed

event and not to be missed. The line up will begin with Kaitlyn Thomas, The Cartwheels, The Dalton Gang and conclude with Danny Stain.

B o o k o n l i n e a t w w w. k i l m o r e countrymusicfestival.com.au to avoid disappointment and save $5 per ticket.

Betting shed doors will open at 7pm, enjoy a meal in the Trackside Lounge before, or at Mac’s Hotel. Snack food and bar will be available in the betting shed also.

The committee is looking forward to a big farewell to the festival and hope to see many turn out for one last time. The final Hoorah!

Sparkling smiles after win

From left, Stephens Jewellers sales assistant, Marie Dougan presenting local resident, Jacinta Mech with the Nikki Lissoni necklace with coin pendant that she won after having been chosen as the lucky winner of The Adviser Valentine’s Day Competition. Photo: Alicia Niglia.

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NEWS

Anything, anywhere; PACK & SEND can do it H

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WORLDWIDE POSTAGE SOLUTIONS… PACK & SEND franchise owner, Rick Orr with examples of the different types, weight and shapes of freight. Photo: David Lee.

WHEN PACK & SEND say they can send anything, anywhere, they really mean it. When I dropped in to speak with franchise owner, Rick Orr, he showed me a large crate containing items from a deceased estate that was bound for the UK, a bike that was being sent to South Australia and smaller crates carrying machine parts that were heading to Germany.

Rick said, “We will pack and send just about anything both domestically and internationally, from push bikes, to all manner of car parts or irreplaceable family mementoes. If you need it sent, we will send it.

“Some people still think of us as being the same as the post office but with PACK & SEND we handle all freight from small to large, domestic and international and we can import and export.

“We can pick up, pack and deliver items for customers and for those items we pack ourselves, we also offer warranty cover (for loss or damage in transit).”

When you need a reliable, wellpriced courier service for your business, eCommerce, or personal parcels, visit PACK & SEND at 155-157 High Street, Shepparton, phone 5821 0568 or go to www.packsend.com.au

GOTAFE hosts Indian dairy delegation for study tour T H I S we ek , G OTA F E h a s b e en playing host to a delegation of dairy representatives from India, delivering a study tour with the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB).

The delegation has been drawn from representatives of all dairy producing states across India and consists of representatives f rom Da i r y C oop erat ive s , Da i r y Manufacturers and NDDB Extension Officers.

During the week, the dairy study tour will have visited DataGene at La Trobe University, Tatura Milk, dairy farms around Shepparton, Riverina, Kiewa Valley and Western District as well as GOTAFE’s Werribee Pilot Factory and Shepparton Campuses.

GOTA FE manager, international and higher education, Kath White said, “The Indian dairy industry is the largest producer of dairy products, however the productivity and quality of milk per cow is comparatively low.

“The dairy study tour will visit dairy farms selected for their specialty area of excellence where guest speakers provide presentations and demonstrations on site.

Demonstrations of vocational education and practical education at remote sites are also included.”

The Adviser. Australia No. 1:1393 Wednesday, February 21, 2018 – Page 15

NEWS

Community action helps reduce the spread of

Queensland Fruit Fly in the Goulburn Murray Valley

A FOCUS on increased community awareness and education has been critical in the campaign to stop the spread of Queensland Fruit Fly (QFF) in the region.

The Goulburn Murray Valley QFF co-ordinator, Ross Abberfield thanked the community for stepping up to protect the region from fruit fly.

“The community has taken ownership of this issue which is reflected in the trapping data that shows a decline in captures in urban areas for the first two weeks of February compared with previous months,” he said.

Control and education measures included partnering with services clubs and schools to educate children and distribute traps, the Rogue Fruit Tree Register which allowed people to report rogue host trees on public land and the deployment of field officers.

Other successful initiatives include the Urban Fruit Tree Removal Program, which has seen 1,300 unwanted fruit trees identified for removal from yards across the region. An extensive community education campaign based on the Pick, Prune and Protect message has had a very positive effect.

“Continued efforts are being made to educate growers, industry and the community about the devastating effects of QFF and we feel that we have made real inroads here.”

For information about QFF control go to www.gmv-qldfruitfly. com.au

Records smashed

Notre Dame College students achieve top results for 2017 Photo: Michael Amendolia

continued from front page

S I G HT E R O T S E R T $2 5 FO R J U S 5 PE 4 OUT OF

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1800 352 352

FIFTY-SEVEN students also presented for VCAL (at Year 12 level), which was again the highest number ever recorded at the school.

Notre Dame College principal, John Cortese said, “The overall aggregated results are outstanding, having reached performance levels in all criteria that have not been reached before since such data was compared.

“T he percentage of st udents who

HOLLOWS.ORG.AU

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ERRADICATING QUEENSLAND FRUIT FLY… From left, Goulburn Murray Valley Regional Fruit Fly co-ordinator, Ross Abberfield and Tree removalist, John Evans. Photo: Supplied.

achieved 40 (out of a possible 50) or above as a Study Score was 6.55 percent, more than double the 2016 percentage, with three students receiving a perfect score of 50.

“The average of all ATARs in 2017 was 65.77, which is significantly up from the 2016 average of 57.37. This is only the second time in the past eight years that the average has been in the 60s and easily the highest average that we have ever recorded. The average ATAR of the top 10 students in 2017 was 95.92, again by far the highest average ever recorded of the top 10 performers.

“Not re Da me College Du x , Pa ris Pellegrino achieved the highest ever ATAR at Notre Dame College – an impressive 99.5. This was followed closely by Miguel Clerigo, who achieved an outstanding result of 99.05.

“All of these achievements are a brilliant result for the college, students, families and teachers. We’d like to congratulate the students for the amount of effort and dedication they applied to their studies and

the families, who have not only supported the students throughout their schooling, but have also been invaluable supporters of the college itself.

“Thanks also needs to go to all of the Notre Dame College staff, both teaching and non-teaching, who, by even the smallest task, build our college to be the exceptional institution that it is.

“And, of course, all of this wouldn’t be possible without the valued support from the community itself.”

Top 10 High Achievers

Paris Pellegrino.....................................99.5 Miguel Clerigo ...................................99.05 Jade Flynn ..........................................96.65 Ethan Nardella ...................................96.35 Ahmad Al Badry ................................95.65 Mason Farley........................................95.4 Isabella Trevaskis ...............................95.05 Charles Boyer .....................................94.15 Erin Pisasale .........................................94.1 Holly Boldiston ....................................93.3

NEWS

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OUR BATON BEARERS… From left, Queen’s Baton Relay baton bearers, Stephen Barker, Dhami Singh, Lloyd Freer, Rhonda Cator, Greater Shepparton City Council Mayor, Cr Kim O’Keeffe, baton bearers, Damien Stevens, Michael Scanolera, Jacinta Todd, Zahra Al Hindawi, Allan Connolly, Kenneth Birkett, Alana Baldi, Jennifer Savage, Kayne Crompton, Kathy Fuller and Damien Saxon. Photos: Alicia Niglia.

Damien Stevens.

Kenneth Birkett.

Kathy Fuller.

Alana Baldi.

Michael Scandolera.

Allan Connolly.

Damien Saxon.

Rhonda Cator.

Hundreds get glimpse of Queen’s Baton

By David Lee HUNDREDS turned out along the course that the Queen’s Baton took through Shepparton on Wednesday last week, to get a glimpse of the impressive baton and show their support for 15 local baton bearers.

Business people, school students and members of the community cheered on as the baton travelled the 4.5km through the city, which was just over the halfway mark (51 days) of its 100 day, 40,000km journey around Australia to the Gold Coast Commonwealth Games.

But, this isn’t the first time locals have had the chance to glimpse a Queen’s Baton, with it having previously come through Shepparton during relays including the 2006 Melbourne Commonwealth Games Queen’s Baton Relay.

Fo r lo c a l b ato n b e a r e r, R ho nd a Cator, who has represented Australia in Bad minton at both Olympic and Commonwealth Games, the day brought her medal-winning memories back.

“The memories of my five Commonwealth Games and five bronze medals are flooding back as I carry the Queen’s Baton; to be involved and relive

those special moments again is unreal.

“My friends from the Badminton Club where I have worked for the last 17 years surprised me today and came out to support me, as well as my loving parents who travelled to be here.

“I’ve been involved in Badminton since I was 14 years old, I’ve competed and worked in it, and it’s shaped me into the person that I am today.”

The final baton bearer who carried the baton to a special celebration at Victoria Park Lake, Michael Scandolera said he and the other baton bearers were humbled and honoured for being chosen for such an important task.

“The 15 of us are very blessed to have carried the baton. We are all extremely grateful and all enjoyed it,” Michael said.

“When the games begin I will definitely be watching the bad m inton. T he Commonwealth Games level is exceptional.

All of the athletes work so hard to get there and to play for Australia is an honour, so we’ll be watching them all.”

Greater Shepparton City Council Mayor, Cr Kim O’Keeffe said, “We are very privileged and honoured that the baton has

visited our beautiful city.

“I would like to congratulate our local baton bearers who have carried the Queen’s Baton through to our local primary and high schools, the Maude Street Mall and here to the Victoria Park Lake, touching many members of our community as it visited each destination.

“These individuals were chosen to carry the baton for a range of reasons, including their significant contributions to sport, education, the arts, culture, charity or community, for achieving something extraordinary or for inspiring others to achieve something extraordinary, for having excelled or aspires to excel athletically or personally or for contributing to a fun, friendly, vibrant and inclusive community.

“Our baton bearers have shared the dream and carried the spirit of the games with pride, embracing the diversity and values of the Commonwealth. They will inspire others with their passion and commitment to sport and community and have contributed to the excitement of the world-class festival of sports and culture to come.”

The Adviser. Australia No. 1:1393 Wednesday, February 21, 2018 – Page 17

NEWS

The secret is finally out THE final stage is underway at Lifestyle Shepparton with ‘The Grove – Stage 8’ unveiled to eager visitors at Lifestyle Shepparton’s open day last Saturday.

Lifestyle consultant, Suellen Drysdale said, “People are now coming to an understanding that Lifestyle Shepparton is a resort-style environment, not a retirement village or aged care facility. It’s a very active, social environment and today is testament to that with so many happy homeowners sharing their stories with visitors. There are only 33 homes in stage 8 and it won’t be long until the community is sold out.”

Lifestyle Shepparton homeowner Lorraine Berry said, “I have been here for five and a half years and everyone is just so friendly. It really is like living in a resort and I love it.”

With the option to downsize to a bigger life, stage 8 offers brand new home specification, 2 and 3-bedroom designs and the opportunity to enjoy extra space and freedom in a secure, gated community. For more information call 5821 5155, or drop into 65 Channel Road, Shepparton or visit lifestyleshepparton.com

LIVING THE DREAM… From left, Lifestyle homeowner, Lorraine Berry and Lifestyle consultant, Suellen Drysdale talk about resort-style living at Lifestyle Shepparton. Photo: Nicholise Garner.

A loving win…

From left, winner of The Adviser Valentine’s Day Competition Parklake romantic three course dinner for two with a bottle of wine, Michelle Stevens and Parklake general manager, Kelly Sullivan. Photo: David Lee.

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NEWS

Plans released for multi-million dollar upgrades $1M financial continued from front page

By David Lee PLANS have now been released for the upgrade of several schools across the region, including Orrvale Primary School, which is set to get $1.7M to refurbish and upgrade the school to modernise it and suit the needs of students, parents and staff.

With construction set to start in spring this year and be completed within 12 months, the schools will share in a total of $4.416M in funding to address some of the needs included in the school’s long term master plans.

Orrvale Primary School’s upgrade will see existing classrooms get a major facelift to bring them up to the highest modern standards, the renovation of the administration building and extensive refurbishment of the school’s library and STEM specialist centre, which also incorporates music and arts facilities.

Kialla West Primary School is set for a $955,000 upgrade and modernisation project with a new building to be constructed, to provide an open layout learning space.

Bourchier Street Primary School has been allocated $1.4M to demolish damaged classrooms and replace them with new flexible learning spaces.

Mooroopna Park Primary School will undergo $361,000 in works to upgrade two learning areas, as well as the installation of two classrooms.

Minister for Education, James Merlino visited Orrvale Primary School last week to view the designs and hear from architects who detailed the plans for the upgrades.

“It’s a really impor tant time for education in Shepparton,” Minister Merlino said.

“This funding will transform the schools and boost the local school community.

impact to offset waste cost

EDUCATIONAL BOOST… Orrvale Primary School school captains, Zaydan Leocata, 12, Mia Elliott, 11, and principal, Adam Brennan showing Minister for Eductaion, James Merlino and Independent Member for Shepparton District, Suzanna Sheed. Photo: Alicia Niglia.

“We want to make sure that our schools have the best facilities, our classrooms have the best teachers and that every child is given every chance to succeed.

“These fantastic designs represent a significant step for Shepparton region’s families getting the great local school facilities their kids need to thrive.

“Capital needs and refurbishment works for schools are always there and we need to meet that.

“There is always more to be done so it is important that we constantly address the needs of our schools.”

THE impact of this has seen the Australian recycling industry needing to reassess the entire recycling system, including pricing arrangements and local council’s, including Greater Shepparton City Council will now incur a grate fee, which was not previously imposed.

Greater Shepparton City Council CEO, Peter Harriott said, “Council is continuing to discuss contractual arrangements and any implications of a possible price re-set.

“At this stage interim negotiations have secured short-term arrangements to continue the kerbside recycle service, so it’s business as usual. The recycling issues do not impact on general waste or the green organics collection.

“Council has called upon the State Government to assist Local Government communities by accessing the landfill levy to cover the new gate fee in the short to medium term.

“Council again reinforces the point that the general waste and green collection are not impacted upon and that arrangements have been put in place to secure on-going kerbside recycle collection. We therefore ask our residents to continue recycling as normal as collection services remain unchanged.”

Council is awaiting an announcement from the State Government on the issue, which is expected to be made this week.

The Adviser. Australia No. 1:1393 Wednesday, February 21, 2018 – Page 19

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wi t h Geoff Vallance

ALMOST 1KM OF CARRIAGES… The Ghan carried extra carriages to cater for the bookings making the train over 990m long. | (Main image) UP AT DAWN… Sun Rise at Marla. The stop marks the start of the Oodnadatta Track. | KATHERINE GORGE… Heavy rains had flooded the gorge but we were still able to take a boat to the Aboriginal Rock Paintings. | DUAL PURPOSE… Insulators for the wire starching from Darwin to Adelaide for the telegraph. It kept going down as local Aboriginals took the glass insulators smashed them and used the sharp edge to skin animals.

THIS is the story of one of the great train journeys. The train is the Ghan and its journey through the heart of Australia.

It starts in Adelaide where the friendly staff of Great Southern Rail welcome you at the Adelaide Parklands Terminal. Nothing is too much trouble as they assist you with

your baggage, complimentary coffee and champagne is on offer. It’s only 10am but put a group of Aussies together with free drinks and you have the beginnings of a party…one big party all the way to Darwin.

The train is well decked out. We have a deluxe cabin complete with three quarter double bed, two arm chairs, ensuite and kitchenette for making coffees etc, a well-stocked mini bar and on the table an ice bucket and a welcome bottle of champagne.

There is also a parlour car for relaxing and enjoying drinks and a dining car offering fine food.

The Ghan got its name from the Afghan camel drivers who came to Australia in the 1800s to ply the outback with their camels, transporting all manner of goods through the centre of this vast country.

In 1929, the first Ghan left Adelaide for Alice Springs, then in 2004 the track was completed to Darwin and it continues to be very popular.

On this journey they have fitted extra carriages to cater for the bookings. We are over 990m long and will travel over 2,900km to our destination.

This evening we dine in the Queen Adelaide Restaurant. The atmosphere and the food are excellent and so are the fine wines.

Retiring to our cabins the train rocks us to sleep. In the early hours of the morning the train stops art Marla and this is to be our first outback experience.

As we leave the Ghan, the night sky is black, but hundreds of lanterns have been set up along the side of the track to guide our way to a central point midway along the massive length of our train.

Bonfires have been lit to warm the night as we await sunrise. Hot coffee and tea are served together with bacon and egg sliders and sweet buns.

The sunrise is spectacular and so is the outback bushland that surrounds us. Marla is 160km from the Northern Territory border.

Its location marks the start of the Oodnadatta Track.

Back on-board we head for Alice Springs.

The outback is truly a wide open space with bright red soil, lots of saltbush, some trees but very few sighting of wildlife. No, we have just seen a kangaroo but only one and later on some cattle, and then two camels but that’s it.

Crossing into the Northern Territory we see the mighty Finke River. It’s empty and mostly is and is said to be one of the oldest rivers in the world dating back 300 million years

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We now pull into Alice Springs. Our train is so big and as we slow down it takes 10 minutes to cross a level crossing, cars lined up on either side.

At either end of the train it’s a long walk to the station. Alice Springs was established just about in the dead centre of Australia. It was put there by engineers to establish a communication system between Darwin and Adelaide.

Just a few teams of men set about the back breaking work of digging holes for poles…36,000 of them to run a wire across the outback of Australia to set up the telegraph.

They did and the central point of Alice Springs was born.

They tell the story how in the early days the telegraph kept breaking down. It seems the local Aboriginals took a liking to the glass bulbs at the top of each poll used to insulate the wires.

They would shimmy up the polls, take the bulb and smash it to get the sharp edges of the glass to use it for skinning animals Teams of men were sent out to repair the wire until a bright idea. They left a box of bulbs at the base of each poll affected. With regular top-ups the problem was solved.

The Alice has a population of between 24 and 30,000 depending on the time of year. It’s home to the Royal Flying Doctor Service; one of the great achievements in medicine and care in the outback of Australia. A visit to their headquarters is a must do. The Alice is also home to an amazing camel race and a regatta held on a river with no water…the Todd. All manner of craft are built for the race. At the starter’s gun the teams lift their craft up around them and run down the dry riverbed.

From The Alice it’s an overnight ride on the Ghan to Katherine, home to the world famous Gorge. If we had arrived last week we would not have been able to see the Gorge as the floodwaters covered the road in and the Gorge carried an extra 3m of water.

Today we are lucky. Even though the second Gorge is still closed we can sail on the first and make our way to Aboriginal rock paintings high on the Gorge wall.

It’s a very beautiful experience. The high walls of the Gorge look so majestic. It is strange to think that millions of years ago this was just one big rock then a tiny crack and the trickling water cut into the rock carving over millennium a river.

This area has now been handed back to its traditional owners, the Jawoyn people and forms the Nitmiluk National Park that covers over 290,000ha. From its beginnings it has taken

nature over 23 million years to create this natural wonder.

On the way back to Katherine it was pointed out to us that Katherine was the only inland town in Australia to be bombed by the Japanese during the World War II. As the Japanese planes bombed Darwin over 60 times, they also attacked Katherine, because of its RAAF Airfield, 91 bombs were dropped killing one person.

Until next time, Safe Travel’n, Geoff Vallance.

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DOUBLE THE VINTAGE… Local resident, Rob Crawford with his two 1937 Chevrolets, Mr C and Ruby. Photos: Alicia Niglia.

Mr C & Ruby

By David Lee LOCAL resident, Rob Crawford’s two 1937 Chevrolets are something quite special.

They hold a very special place in his heart as not only did he have a 1939 model as his wedding car, but he also worked on that car with his dad, which is why one of his 1937 models is nicknamed Mr C. Mr C was found while Rob and his wife were on holiday in Kiama in 2010. The ‘two door sloper’ needed a bit of work and Rob was up to the challenge. While it took him longer to finish than he thought, he has fully rebuilt the body, motor, given it a respray, rewired it, put in new glass and reupholstered it as well as installing a 12 volt system and new seatbelts.

The second 1937 model he owns, Ruby, was also found in Kiama and was bought

because Rob hadn’t quite got Mr C on the road and Ruby was ready to go.

Rob said, “This model was known as a travelling businessman’s coup and they are a rare car as not a lot were made.

“When I was building the 1939 model with my dad, I said it was going to be the last worked on, but when I saw it advertised in Kiama I couldn’t resist.

“Malcolm Church helped me build the motor for Mr C and do quite a bit more with it. Without his help I wouldn’t have gotten the car on the road.

“My son is getting married soon so we are looking forward to having both cars in the wedding.

“My wife and I travel with the cars quite often to trips with our car club and they have even won a few awards at car shows.”

The Adviser. Australia No. 1:1393 Wednesday, February 21, 2018 – Page 21

NEWS

ultimate

home & garden Last chance to see the

Eureka 307!

THERE are only three weeks left to visit Hotondo Shepparton’s beautiful Eureka 307 before the home closes its doors for good!

The large home showcases clever design features to give you all the inspiration you could need — it’s not to be missed!

Designed with families in mind, the three-bedroom home features an impressive master suite complete with a heavenly walk-through-robe and large ensuite, a semi-enclosed living area and study, which can be converted to a fourth bedroom.

The heart of the home is the open-plan kitchen, living and dining with direct access to an expansive alfresco combining indoor and outdoor living.

Hotondo Shepparton director Colin Mintern believes the Eureka’s countless features show how new homebuyers can add little touches to give a design a unique touch.

“From the exposed brick walls to the cathedral ceiling in the living area and even the bi-fold doors to the alfresco, everywhere you turn you can see a feature that might catch your eye and become a must in your new home,” Colin said.

“There are so many things on your mind when the time comes to build a new home that you can forget about things

THREE WEEKS LEFT TO VISIT… Drop in and see Hotondo Shepparton’s beautiful Eureka 307. Pictured, Hotondo Homes Shepparton administration Suz Mintern and builder, Colin Mintern. Photo: Nicholise Garner.

you want to include, visiting a display puts ideas right in front of you. It’s one of the major benefits of visiting display homes.”

From the moment you arrive at the Eureka 307 you’ll marvel at the exposed stone, timber and brick facade that showcases the home’s rustic character before you even step through the door. With hardwood timber flooring, 40mm stone benchtops and feature tiling in each bathroom adding a further touch of luxury, you’ll feel right at home.

“From the moment we opened the doors of the Eureka the feedback has been phenomenal!” Colin said. “People absolutely love how inviting the central area of the home is.

You really have the perfect entertaining space when you open the doors to the alfresco, it’s perfect for summer.”

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With the new Marcoola 269 set to open in the coming weeks, you’ll still have a chance to see Colin’s quality craftsmanship, however, the design and clever features of the Eureka are not to be missed.

There’s never been more reason to visit Hotondo Shepparton with their latest limited time offer. You can get even more in your new Hotondo Home with one of their three no-cost upgrade packages. You’ll need to hurry! Both the offer and the Eureka 307 will be gone at the end of March. You can visit the Eureka 307 at 82 Canterbury Avenue, Shepparton. To learn more about building with Hotondo Shepparton, contact the team on 5831 2250 or visit www.hotondo.com.au.

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4.1 million Australians read community newspapers in print.

emma ™ 12 months to February 2017. Readership based on last four weeks.

Survey conducted by Ipsos MediaCT, people 14+ ; Nielsen DRM February 2017, People 14+ only.

The Adviser. Australia No. 1:1393 Wednesday, February 21, 2018 – Page 25

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SPORT

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Players put S through their paces AFL PLAYERS GO BACK TO SCHOOL… Western Bulldogs players, Tom Campbell, Kieran Collins, Nathan Mullenger-Mchugh and Brad Lynch visited Katamatite, Invergordon, Tungamah, Corowa, Devenish, Congupna and Shepparton East primary schools on Monday. Photo: Supplied.

Students barking with excitement over AFL players visit STUDENTS from Katamatite, Invergordon, Tungamah, Corowa, Devenish, Congupna and Shepparton East primary schools were barking with excitement on Monday, following a visit from Western Bulldogs players as part of the AFL Goulburn Murray Player Appearance program.

Tom Campbell, Kieran Collins, Nathan Mu llenger-Mchug h and Brad Ly nch travelled to the schools taking the students

through some skill drills where they picked up tips about kicking, holding the ball, before the players sat down to talk with the students about resilience, leadership and teamwork.

A F L G o u l b u r n M u r r ay f o o t b a l l development manager, Mark Lambourn said, “The students asked some great questions and the players asked some top questions back.

“Every story or questions the kids asked, the players were able to turn it back into a classroom situation so that the students could relate.

“These remote towns rarely get such an opportunity to have AFL players visits and the students from the schools were very excited about catching up with the Bulldogs players. It was an absolute buzz and the look on the kid’s faces said it all.”

Bushrangers and Pioneers test academy inductees THE 2018 intake of the Tatura Milk AFL GM Academy were put through their paces in Shepparton earlier in the week by specialist TAC Cup coaches as part of their induction.

T he academy, entering its third year, has partnered with the Murray Bushrangers and Bendigo Pioneers programs, providing an A FL Draft Camp style testing environment for participants on Monday, which exposed them to elite testing and enable the collection of baseline data on agility, speed and power.

As part of the first session a parent induction session was also delivered to discuss the philosophies, activities and expectations of the program.

A second session will be held later today in Echuca.

JOINING FORCES… Elite Pole Dance & Aerial Fitness co-owners, Kylie Suratman and Melissa Blair have amalgamated their businesses for the greater good. Photo: Alicia Niglia.

Creating a new energy R AT H ER than divide and conquer, joining forces in business is a wonderful approach to success. Business owners, Kylie Suratman of Lola’s Pole School and Melissa Blair of Elite Pole Dance and Fitness have merged their businesses to offer their clients the best of both worlds.

Now known as Elite Pole Dance and Fitness, Kylie and Melissa can offer their clients a lot more classes in aerial, dance and general fitness classes. Melissa said, “We have a great studio on Hoskin Street

with free parking and have a huge team of instructors with classes to suit anyone’s schedule. Kylie and I have been able to combine forces to create and awesome space which is able to cater to so many more people now.”

For more information about the classes available, follow Elite Pole Dance and Fitness on Facebook, contact Melissa directly on 0418 278 542 or drop into Elite Pole Dance and Fitness at 12 Hoskin Street Shepparton.

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NEWS

A dancing success helps raise funds MOYOLA Aged Care Inc was delighted recently to receive $3,000 from INStyle Dancing and Tatura Studio, which will go toward purchasing a new bus for the facility.

Amelia and Gerry Vecchio from INStyle Dancing Studio and Lisa and Rocky Niglia from Tatura Studio raised the funds through the 2017 New Year’s Eve Gatsby Dance Night fundraiser at Victory Hall.

Amelia Vecchio said, “It was wonderful to see Victory Hall buzzing with everyone dressed up and couples dancing the night away.

“The fact that the night was a fundraiser was even better and Gerry and I were delighted with how successful the night was,” Amelia said.

Moyola Aged Care Inc CEO, Polly Devine said that local support for the bus fundraiser had been outstanding.

“We thank INStyle Dancing and Tatura Studio for their generous donation. Moyola is fortunate to be supported by such great local organisations,” Polly said.

Lisa Niglia from Tatura Studio said the night was a wonderful community event.

“The night was a great success as an event and a fundraiser.

We are please to be able to support Moyola’s bus fundraiser.

“The new bus will allow residents to get out and about and be more active and enjoy new experiences which is all part of keeping our bodies and minds healthy, something that Tatura Studio is very passionate about.

“The Dhurringile Tennis Club also contributed to the project and should be congratulated as a not-for-profit organisation donating their profits and giving back to the community,” Lisa said.

FUNDING A NEW BUS… From left, Lisa Niglia from Tatura Studio, Gerry and Amelia Vecchio from INStyle Dancing, Moyola Aged Care Inc resident, Muriel Whitford, CEO, Polly Devine and facility manager, Jacqui McEwan. Photo: Supplied.

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