The Adviser 1535

38 Christmas

IT’S ON AGAIN!

Sleeps until

GMCU 2020

Cracking

Shopping Spree Giveaway

Christmas

AUXILIARY GOES ON THE GRILL PAGE 4

BRAD HELPING KEEP THE GV CLEAN PAGE 14

KS ADVISER SEE NEXT WEETO ENTER RE HE ON W

REDBACKS TOP LADDER Sport Adviser

No 1:1535

Hands go up for Mayoral nominations

T H E election of the Mayor of the Greater Shepparton City Council is set to be a three-way race between re-elected councillors Seema Abdullah, Kim O'Keeffe and Fern Summer at next Monday's Council Meeting, yet the door remains open for more councillors to nominate.

Unlike the election of councillors, the public does not vote directly for a Mayor and Deputy, and their election will be among the newly-inducted nine councillors.

The appointments are more akin to a cricket team voting to choose their captain and vice-captain for a 12-month term.

Continued on page 6

PAGE 23

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 2020

$15,000

TIME TO BE WON INAS! FOR CHRISTM

That’s the ticket FREE AT LAST... President of the Shepparton Chamber of Commerce and Industry, John Anderson, has welcomed the Greater Shepparton City Council’s announcement to introduce free timed parking in the CBD through December and January. Photo: Steve Hutcheson

Free CBD parking back from December 1

By Steve Hutcheson IN keeping with the spirit of COVID-19 recovery, Greater Shepparton City Council under delegated authority by the Executive Leadership Team, will facilitate complimentary timed parking for the CBD over the December-January holiday period.

According to many of the traders in the precinct, this relaxation

had a great psychological effect on shoppers and traders alike when it was introduced last year.

Paul Lelliot, marketing director at Shepparton Camera House said, "It is not that we saw higher trade figures but it was more about happy customers, people who were not under pressure to meet the time that they had paid for at the meter." Continued on page 6

NEWS

Putting the GV’s best in a box

T WO passionate Shepparton businesspeople, Karli Sutherland and Liz Connick, have joined forces and found a way to support the many regional producers and tourism businesses that have been hit hard by COVID-19 restrictions.

The pair are behind the new Goulburn Valley Produce Boxes: Boxed collections of pre-packaged premium products grown and produced in the Goulburn Valley. Think wine (of course), craft beers, cider, granola, jam, olive oil, dukkah, lavosh, relish, chutney, salad dressing, Christmas cake and Italian biscuits. It's an enticing line-up.

Ms Sutherland, herself a business owner, said she felt compelled to do something to support those businesses who were struggling.

"Each year I give Christmas hampers to

WONDERFUL INITIATIVE... The pair behind the new Goulburn Valley Produce Boxes: Karli Sutherland (left) and Liz Connick. Photo: Supplied

our staff and family and I thought this year I would make sure everything in the hamper would be local. After talking to a local hospitality business, I then spoke to Council and the idea just grew from there," she said.

Along with support from the Greater Shepparton City Council, the initiative is

Shepparton TODAY Mostly sunny. Light winds.

High 31º

Low 10º

Sunrise: 6:00am Sunset: 8:07pm

Thursday H 15º L 36º

Friday H 33º L 17º

Saturday H 35º L 11º

partnered with ConnectGV, which means purchases of the GV Produce Boxes also provides employment for local people with a disability. ConnectGV's supported staff are assisting with packing and distribution.

For more information visit the website gvproducebox.com.

Shepparton Rainfall 5.4mm this month Water Level Lake Eildon Waranga Basin

Sunday H 31º L 17º

% Full 69.01 90.98

Monday H 29º L 16º

Current Vol (ML) 2,300,998 393,351

Tuesday H 28º L 12º

The Goulburn and Murray Valleys’ largest circulating newspaper CONTACT US: Advertising: melanie.spencer@sheppartonadviser.com.au Classifieds: classifieds@sheppartonadviser.com.au Editorial: editorial@sheppartonadviser.com.au

Reception: Telephone: 5832 8900 Fax: 5832 8920 Address: Newspaper House, 219-225 Wyndham St,

PO Box 1664, Shepparton, Victoria 3630

CAB Audited to 29,588 homes, farms & businesses weekly on Wednesdays

Page 2- The Adviser Australia No.1:1535 Wednesday, November 18, 2020

Website: www.sheppartonadviser.com.au

The Adviser is a member of the Victorian Country Press Association

NEWS

Major Christmas shopping spree competition launched $15,000 in shopping sprees to be won WITH among the longest and harshest restrictions seen in Australia, this year's Christmas Shopping in the Shepparton region has never been more important.

Since March, pubs, clubs, restaurants, cafes, eateries and associated businesses have been among the hardest hit businesses that are looking to make up for lost ground in the leadup to Christmas.

To help generate improved sales in the lead-up to Christmas, the Goulburn Valley's very own GMCU Credit Union has thrown its weight behind the relaunch of the popular annual Shoppers' Giveaway competition with $15,000 up for grabs.

The competition in its 17th year had to be postponed when COVID-19 hit in March.

Excitingly, the relaunch of the 2020 GMCU Cracking Christmas Shopping Spree Giveaway

kicks off next Wednesday, November 25 and concludes in time for many lucky shoppers to enjoy these great shopping sprees valued up to $1000 each just before Christmas.

In all there are 25 $500 and $1000 shopping sprees to be won.

All shoppers have to do is spend a minimum of $10 at any of the 160-plus participating businesses, fill out the entry form and place it in the entry box.

Eight $500 shopping sprees will be drawn each week from Monday, November 30 followed by five lucky winners who walk away with a huge $1000 shopping spree each, plus participating staff prizes of $500, each drawn on Monday, December 21.

So join in the fun by supporting local businesses and you might just walk away with a $1000 or $500 shopping spree or both! And it's

CRACKING TIME TO WIN... The Adviser managing editor, Geoff Adams, is promoting the GMCU 2020 Cracking Christmas Shopping Spree as a wonderful way to support local business while giving shoppers the chance to win cash shopping spree prizes. Photo: Struan Jones

all compliments of the GMCU and The Adviser.

Look out for the list of participating businesses inside next week's Adviser.

Sheed calls for urgent bus review

By Struan Jones INDEPENDENT Member for Shepparton District, Suzanna Sheed, has called for an urgent review of the Shepparton and Mooroopna town bus network.

Ms Sheed said current services are totally inadequate and need an immediate overhaul.

"The bus services are infrequent, extremely limited on Saturdays, don't run at all on Sundays or public holidays, fail to coordinate with rail services at Shepparton Railway Station, and ignore Shepparton and Mooroopna's growth areas," Ms Sheed said.

The need for a review is urgent, Ms Sheed told the Victorian Parliament last week.

"Mooroopna and Shepparton have expanded significantly since the last review was undertaken and completion of stage one of the redevelopment of GV Health, the impending completion of the Shepparton Art Museum and numerous other developments are creating a much greater demand on our public transport system," Ms Sheed said.

"Services are infrequent, running only hourly between 8am- 6pm on weekdays, limited service on Saturdays, and none on Sundays or public holidays, with no direct bus link between Shepparton and Tatura. It's mind boggling that the bus doesn't coordinate with any rail services at the Shepparton Railway Station and it doesn't service many of Shepparton and Mooroopna's growth areas."

The Shepparton and Mooroopna bus network has had no substantial update since 2008 and was last reviewed in 2006.

"A review is well overdue," Ms Sheed said.

It's a call supported by Dysons Shepparton depot manager, Roy Dyson.

"We agree there's room for improvement, certainly with the growth of the population there's room to enhance the service," Mr

INADEQUATE SERVICES?... Independent Member for Shepparton District, Suzanna Sheed, is calling for the Shepparton and Mooroopna town bus network to be reviewed. Photo: Steve Hutcheson

Dyson said.

"We think a review is overdue."

Dysons runs the nine routes through Shepparton and Mooroopna, along with school bus services and V/Line routes.

Mr Dyson said future changes could include changed routes or more routes.

He said his company frequently received feedback, particularly around travel to and from schools, and the lack of services on weekends.

In response to an enquiry to the office of Minister for Public Transport, Ben Carroll, a spokesperson said the Department of Transport periodically reviews bus networks to ensure services are appropriate for the area, however did not comment on if or when a review of the network was on the cards.

The Adviser. Australia No.1:1535 Wednesday, November 18, 2020-Page 3

LETTERS

OPINION + NEWS

Letters to the Editor

CLICKING TONGS AND RAISING FUNDS...

Members of the GV Health Extended Care Auxiliary are making a last-ditch effort to raise funds this year by holding a Christmas raffle. First prize is the barbeque (pictured). From left: Madge Merrylees, Lisa Ladas, Rosemary Hemetsberger, Heather Lloyd, and Lolene James.

Photo: Struan Jones

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.

COUNCIL MUST CONSIDER CLIMATE CHANGE Dear Editor, Congratulations to all councillors - in my view we now potentially have the right blend of experience, knowledge and enthusiasm to move the city in the right direction on the plethora of issues that are either a Council responsibility or must be advocated for passionately.

COVID-19 has had an enormous negative impact on not only the economy but also all other facets of our lives. Ironically, carbon emissions have diminished slightly before rebounding if we don't take learning from COVID-19 and just return to what we were doing as individuals or a nation.

We will overcome COV I D -19 but the damage will be evident for a decade.

However, the total impact of COVID-19 will pale into insignificance compared to unmitigated climate change, the path Australia is effective on – trillions of dollars

lost (no way to pay), millions of jobs lost forever and a planet too hot to live on.

If we allow the recognised tipping points to be reached, the negative impacts will take place possibly as quickly as the spread of COCID-19, on a scale unimagined, with absolutely no hope of a vaccine-type solution.

For the Council to provide leadership on this issue, all activities/investments must be analysed repeatedly and continuously through the lens of 'climate change'.

Everything is connected and it all depends on a properly functioning blue planet.

This Council must lead the way- there is no alternative.

Terry Court Tatura Want to have your say?

Email your letters to the editor to editorial@sheppartonadviser.com.au Please keep letters to under 200 words.

Page 4- The Adviser Australia No.1:1535 Wednesday, November 18, 2020

Hospital Auxiliary goes on the grill THE hospital auxiliary is the traditional fundraising arm of a hospital, responsible for raising funds for essential equipment not usually supplied by a government department.

Here in Shepparton, the GV Health Extended Care Auxiliary raises funds to support Grutzner House, a psychogeriatric nursing home catering to the needs of up to 20 residents, and the Mary Coram Unit, a 44-bed combined inpatient rehabilitation and geriatric evaluation and management unit.

Started back in the Mooroopna Hospital days, the Auxiliary has more recently helped fund the purchase of a bladder scanner, an electric wheelchair, a lifting machine and a small bus to help the disabled aged.

Made up of about 20 passionate community-minded ladies, the Auxiliary has suffered this year for a lack of fundraising opportunities. The group normally pulls together about $12,000 per annum in fundraising dollars, but is well behind this year.

They're hoping a Christmas raffle will

restore the finances so they can continue their good work contributing to the vital healthcare sector of the city.

"Normally we would hold three functions per year, including film afternoons, lunches, stalls, plant sales and barbecues," Auxiliary committee member Heather Lloyd said.

"But this year with COVID we have been unable to do so."

The raffle is not to be sneezed at, either.

First prize is a donated Beefeater BUGG barbecue complete with cover and pizza stone. Other prizes include a beautiful patchwork quilt and a basket of 'Christmas Goodies' (which, whatever they are, are bound to be unique).

Tickets are $2 or you can buy a whole book ($20). Get them from Mimma's Hair Studio at Shop 14 in the Wyndham Mall in Shepparton. Otherwise, call Ms Lloyd on 5826 9598. The work these passionate ladies do provides great value to the community, and you may just come away with a fine piece of barbeque, too.

NEWS

Lest We Forget FORMAL RESPECT...

Wreaths laid at the Shepparton War Memorial last Wednesday.

Photo: Struan Jones

A NOTICEABLE yet scattered crowd gathered at the Shepparton War Memorial last Wednesday to mark Remembrance Day. Restrictions surrounding gatherings actively discouraged people coming out to mark the annual event, however Shepparton locals and some school students watched on from a distance in the park with even some across the road on Welsford Street.

Shepparton RSL sub-branch president, Bob Wilkie, spoke briefly, saying, "We hope and pray that a vaccine will be available for this pandemic next year so that life can get back to normal."

The RSL had its normal ANZAC Day ceremony strictly curtailed in April, and on Wednesday only 10 members of the

RSL committee were allowed to attend, with those members laying wreaths on behalf of community organisations.

"We must spare a thought this morning for all our Australian Defence Force personnel serving in overseas conflicts and missions throughout the world," Mr Wilkie said.

"We also remember those great Australians who are prepared to commit their body and soul to protect those nations who cannot defend their livelihood."

The national flags of Australia, New Zealand and the United Kingdom were raised from half-mast, and bugler, Bill Scott, was on hand to sound the Last Post prior to a minute's silence, ending with a sounding of the Reveille.

Record investment expected in social housing THE Victorian Government will invest $45M in Greater Shepparton to create at least 150 new social housing homes as part of a record investment into public and community housing.

The $5.3B Big Housing Build package is expected to see more than 12,000 new homes constructed throughout regional and metro Victoria, boosting the state's social housing supply by 10 percent over the next four years.

One-quarter of the funds have been committed to new regional housing stock.

The investment will deliver 9,300 new social

housing homes, including replacing 1,100 old public housing units. Of the new homes, 2,000 will be for Victorians with mental illness.

Member for Northern Victoria, Wendy Lovell, has said regional areas should receive more attention, given they make up 34 percent of the total number of families on the social housing waiting list.

"With Shepparton unfortunately being identified by the Council to the Homeless Persons as the regional city with the highest number of homeless people and the concerning rise in families languishing on the

ever-growing waiting list, it is time for the Government to make a significant investment in social housing in our city," Ms Lovell said.

As of September, there were 1,419 applicants on the social housing waiting list and 722 applicants on the priority housing waiting list in Shepparton.

Homeless advocate Kim O'Keeffe, who met with the Parliamentary Inquiry in Homelessness earlier this year in her capacity as a councillor, said she was hoping Greater Shepparton's homelessness statistics will be recognised and "that we'll get the appropriate

funding and support."

Independent Member for Shepparton District, Suzanna Sheed, welcomed the announcement, saying, "As the independent local member, I have, along with community organisations and individuals, been pushing the Victorian Government very hard to invest in more social housing stock because of the dire need within our community.

"I welcome this announcement as an important step in the right direction," Ms Sheed said.

La Trobe unveils plan for Shepparton campus LA TROBE University will continue to put more of its courses online in a move it describes as giving more regional students the chance to become nurses, social workers and psychologists.

The university has unveiled its plan for its Shepparton campus, which it says is designed to help the university and regional communities recover from the Coronavirus pandemic.

In Shepparton, a new Diploma of Health Sciences will be offered for the first time in 2021, enabling eligible students to move into degrees in nursing, health science and social work upon completion.

The university will also introduce online offerings of most

of its psychology courses, making them available for the first time to Shepparton students – both school-leavers, and those returning to study.

La Trobe Vice-Chancellor, Professor John Dewar AO, said as regional communities begin recovering from the pandemic, building a strong rural health workforce is a priority for the university.

"More than ever regional Australia needs experts in frontline and mental health, who deeply understand the issues facing regional communities, and the local services available to help people recover," he said.

La Trobe has faced a challenging year as the supply of high fee-paying international students dried up, which accounted for roughly 25 percent of the university's revenue. Two rounds of voluntary redundancies have taken place, mostly at the University's flagship campus in Bundoora, in an effort to cut its total costs by about 20 percent over the next few years.

According to the university's 10-year Strategic Plan released this year, La Trobe aims to strengthen its online course offering as a core feature of its portfolio of degrees, a move which, according to a university spokesperson, "in no way diminishes the teaching quality or student experience."

The Adviser. Australia No.1:1535 Wednesday, November 18, 2020-Page 5

NEWS S H E PPA R TO N

ROUND UP N OVE M B E R 2020

CRIMINAL DAMAGE TO A VEHICLE IN MOOROOPNA ON Wednesday, October 28 at approximately 4pm in the Mooroopna Coles supermarket carpark, a parked red Toyota Corolla was vandalised.

The offender threw a rock through the rear window and also keyed (scratched) all the vehicle's panels.

Due to the time of day that this occurred a witness to the incident is likely. You are encouraged to call First Constable Roberts at the Shepparton Police Station on 5820 5777 or email vp42586@police.vic.gov.au, otherwise pass on information to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

DUMB AND DUMBER ON Saturday, October 31, two young males aged between 13-15 years, gained entry to a parked vehicle in McKean Street, Mooroopna around 10pm. One entered the vehicle and the other acted as a lookout.

They were disturbed by the owner of the vehicle and following a confrontation both males fled.

Male 1 – The lookout Caucasian, possible Dutch accent. Wearing a military cap with a flat peak, flat top in an octagon shape. Well dressed.

Male 2 – tanned skin, dark eyes, normal features with a mop of black straight hair.

If you can identify these males or have information regarding this incident please contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Brought to you by

Trusted Family & Business Protection CCTV • Alarms • Intercoms • Guards • Patrols

1800 809 579

That’s the ticket: Free CBD parking back from December 1 continued from front page T he G re ater Sheppa r ton C ha mb er of Commerce and Industry has been campaigning for complimentary parking for several years, arguing it is one of the restrictive measures that has seen the decline of trade in the region. President

of the Chamber, John Anderson said, “I welcome the Council’s continuation of the complimentary parking for this JanuaryDecember period.

“Due to the success of it last year I know that it will be extremely popular and welcomed by all the people who come to the CBD.

“I would like to thank the Council for this decision and look forward to future negotiations for CBD parking in 2021.”

Timed complimentary parking will come into operation on December 1 and conclude on January 31, 2021. Visitors to the CBD are still obliged to comply with time limits or face a fine.

continued from front page

Hands go up for Mayoral nominations LIKEWISE, the captain isn’t necessarily who the public perceives as the single best or most popular player, but is ideally the person best suited to leading and acting as a public spokesperson for the team.

Cr Kim O’Keeffe recently surged back into office on the back of a whopping 6,754 first-preference votes (the next best was Cr Rob Priestly with 5,404), however whether this translates into a mandate to be elected Mayor is not guaranteed.

Cr O’Keeffe has served previously as Deputy Mayor for one term and as Mayor for two terms, and said she believes her experience would help lead the new Council through its first year in office.

“I think coming into a new term of Council, it’s important to come in with some experience in that role,” she said.

Cr O’Keeffe said the public support she had received in being returned to Council – receiving nearly 20 percent of the vote – shows there was support among the community for her to take the top job.

Cr Abdullah, the most-recent Mayor who was appointed this time last year in an 8-1 vote on Council, has also said her re-appointment would bring the stability required to bridge the transition from one group of councillors to the next.

“Having done this job during a very difficult, one-in-a-hundredyear pandemic, I believe I’m able to provide the inclusive and stable

standbysecurity.com.au

Page 6- The Adviser Australia No.1:1535 Wednesday, November 18, 2020

Cr Seema Abdullah

Cr Kim O’Keeffe

Cr Fern Summer

environment while the new councillors get their feet under the desk,” she said.

“I’ll be very humbled and very honoured if I’m provided the opportunity to serve a second year as Mayor.”

Cr Fern Summer, who was re-elected for her third term on Council and has two years’ experience as Deputy Mayor, is nominating for the top job for the first time.

“I’d like a more engaged and transparent Council that will hold the chief executive officer to account,” she said.

“I’m sure other candidates would do a fantastic job, but it’s a new Council and we could do with a new start.”

The Adviser. Australia No.1:1535 Wednesday, November 18, 2020-Page 7

NEWS

Rising up in the face of adversity GANBINA is an Aboriginal word that means 'rise up', a testament to the many young people who have adapted to changing circumstances and achieved success despite this year's difficulties.

In honour of these young people, a number of families across Greater Shepparton gathered around their screens on Friday, November 13 to virtually attend the 2020 Ganbina Youth Achievement Awards.

The Ganbina Youth Achievement Awards acknowledge the achievements and efforts of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander youth in education, training and employment.

"The unprecedented events of this year, with its challenges and multiple disruptions to everyday life provided even more reason to celebrate the success and achievements of our

young people," Ganbina general manager, Larissa Falla, said.

"We are incredibly proud of the strength and resilience we have seen this year in our participants and other young people within community. They have stepped up and in in true Ganbina fashion, risen to the occasion."

A special message from Suzanna Sheed MP acknowledged the hard work of all the award winners and gave special mention to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander youth graduating year 12 in in 2020.

This year, Greater Shepparton Secondary College student Rae-Nee Roberts, along with other winners in multiple categories, was recognised for her achievements in schooling, employment, leadership and volunteering.

With an exemplary academic record, Rae-

Nee's teachers stated her positive approach to her studies positions her as a role model within the school and community.

In addition to her studies in 2019, Rae-Nee attended the Alpine School of Leadership and is a current participant in the three-year Ganbina Youth Leadership Program. RaeNee is an active member of Junior School Council, participates in the local Army Cadets and works part-time at McDonalds.

Rae-Nee's aspiration for the future is to become a nurse.

"I encourage all of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander youth to strive for the best and give everything a go, as daunting as the experience may be, I believe that if you don't give it a go, you will never know," RaeNee said.

ROLE MODEL AMONG OUR YOUTH COMMUNITY... 2020 Ganbina Youth of the Year, Rae-Nee Roberts. Photo: Supplied

"Stepping outside of your comfort zone and experiencing new things is key for success and being able to evolve."

Plug pulled on Mooroopna NYE THE Mooroopna Rotary Club's iconic New Year's Eve festival has been cancelled, citing government restrictions and ongoing uncertainty relating to public events.

The New Year's Eve Festival is the club's iconic annual event and has been celebrated for nearly 40 years in the town.

Mooroopna Rotary Club president, Kelvin Rogash, said the club had also cancelled the car raffle that would have been drawn at the festival.

"The club has been discussing the effect of the lockdown and the restrictions on our event and car raffle since the middle of the year, working hard to consider other options

apart from cancellation," Mr Rogash said.

"We recognise that the current restrictions we are working under make it impossible for the event to occur."

The celebration would have marked 100 years since Rotary started in Australia and New Zealand

Vale John McCarroll W E L L - K N OW N a nd mu c h - love d Shepparton transport industry stalwart John McCarroll passed away from cancer earlier this month.

Mr McCarroll, who spent a lifetime in the transport sector and was known across the region, state, and even country, died peacefully in GV Health's palliative care unit.

Close mate, Peter Foott of Foott Waste, said Mr McCarroll would be remembered as a very loyal friend. The pair embarked on a number of Variety Bashes over the years.

"He was a terrific bloke, he was very

knowledgeable and had helped many apprentices over the years," he said.

"He never spoke an ill word of anyone.

He'll leave a strong legacy among friends and colleagues."

Mr McCarroll is survived by his wife, Carmel and sons, Jamie and Patrick.

The popularity of the man was evident when, in late October, dozens of friends and colleagues turned out in a truck convoy, driving past Mr McCarroll's house in a final goodbye.

Page 8- The Adviser Australia No.1:1535 Wednesday, November 18, 2020

TRIBUTE... The October 23 convoy tribute paid to John McCarroll, who passed away earlier this month from cancer. Photo: Geoff Adams

NEWS

The Adviser. Australia No.1:1535 Wednesday, November 18, 2020-Page 9

NEWS

Those summer nights AFTER a year that many of us spent mostly at home, it's now time to get out and let your hair down. A summer filled with live music, good friends and delicious drinks is just what we need to get into the festive spirit.

Shepparton's GV Hotel, with its central location and impressive interior, is the perfect place to enjoy your end of year functions, weekends and even four-course Christmas Day lunch, running from 11:30pm until 3pm.

With a delectable menu for you to preview and choose from, it's imperative you book in very soon for Christmas

Funding sought for CFA stations

THE Member for Northern Victoria Region, Wendy Lovell, has used the latest sitting of State Parliament to highlight the infrastructure needs of CFA stations in her electorate.

During the adjournment debate last week, Ms Lovell sought a commitment from the Minister for Emergency Services, Lisa Neville, that the upcoming State Budget will specifically include funding to refurbish or replace fire stations at Currawa, Yarrawonga, Strathbogie and Golden Square Fire Brigades.

Ms Lovell said the four fire stations are no longer suitable to house the respective brigades, with a lack of changerooms, no space for equipment and an inability to store trucks and tankers a common theme.

Funding for the upgrade and replacement of stations is organised through the Capital Works Program and funding for minor facility upgrades can be applied for under the annual Volunteer Emergency Services Equipment Program (VESEP) where the Government matches every $1 paid by volunteer groups with a $2 co-contribution up to $150,000.

According to a government spokesperson from Ms Neville's office, the Government recently provided an additional $126 million for the CFA "to support volunteers, training and equipment".  "This includes funding for the replacement of 50 firefighting appliances and new stations for volunteer brigades," the spokesperson said.

"Government investment decisions are guided by CFA's key operational priorities in funding its asset base."

lunch as spaces will fill up fast given this year's venue capacity restrictions. A courtesy bus is available for customers, servicing the local area.

The GV Hotel are excited to be relaunching their Piano Bar nights in coming weeks, open to the public, where you are able to enjoy live music atop their quaintly decorated balcony throughout the oncoming balmy months.

Keep an eye on Facebook and Instagram for further details or call the friendly team on 5821 9822. The GV Hotel is located at 223 High Street.

PARTY SEASON IS BACK ON AT THE GV HOTEL...

Some of the lovely team at the GV Hotel including venue manager Margie Valentine, bistro/bar/functions manager Kylie Allan, and duty manager Keesh Day. Photo: Stephanie Holliday

The vision and the tools:

Habitat for Humanity teams with Metricon SOMETIMES the challenge of finding a secure and affordable place to live can consume you. It's not a nice place to be, and unsurprisingly, it generally affects lowerincome households.

'Rental stress' is a term used to describe households at risk of experiencing difficulty meeting their rental costs, and the ABS defines this as housing that costs more than 30 percent of your household income. As a general guide, two out of five renters in Victoria aged between 18-39 experience this financial strain.

While not a widespread solution to affordable housing, an example of a non-profit cooperating with a commercial builder will put one family in need into affordable housing in regional Victoria.

Home building company Metricon has partnered with non-profit Habitat for Humanity on a special project in Yea, where a home for a family of five is under construction.

Ashley and Leanda's three children all have Autism Spectrum Disorder and struggle with change.

Moving to a new house 13 times in the past 17 years due to rising rent in the private rental system has been very challenging for the entire family.

They are very much looking forward to settling into the Yea community and enjoying the stability and security that owning their own home will bring.

Page 10- The Adviser Australia No.1:1535 Wednesday, November 18, 2020

HOME AT LAST... Construction of a Metricon Habitat for Humanity home is now underway in Yea. Photo: Supplied

Established in 1976, Habitat for Humanity International is the world's number one not-for-profit provider of housing and improved shelter for low-income families, providing families in need with a pathway out of poverty and into home ownership, changing lives forever.

The Adviser. Australia No.1:1535 Wednesday, November 18, 2020-Page 11

NEWS

Comfortable bedding key to a good night’s sleep WHEN was the last time you replaced your bed sheets? Just like your toothbrush, pillows and many other household items we use regularly, your bed sheets also have a shelf life.

After regular use and wash cycles, the fibres of your bed linens can start to break down and show signs of wear and tear.

Nothing is more important than a good night's sleep, so ensuring your bed linen is comfortable and in good condition is key to getting some quality shut eye.

Replacing your sheets doesn't have to be expensive, especially if you take advantage of Fi n ny's M a n c h e s t e r S h e pp a r to n and Bendigo's three-week sale starting

tomorrow, Thursday 19th.

From tomorrow, a further 40 percent will be taken off the lowest price for three weeks on all sheet sets and fitted sheets in both stores.

With a vast array of colours, from pastels to brights, and a variety of thread counts, Finny's Manchester sheet sale is the perfect time to replace everyone in your family's worn-out sheet sets or as a great Christmas gift.

Visit Finnys Manchester Shepparton at 136 High Street or contact the store on 5831 2592 or visit the Bendigo store, located 81-85 High Street, contactable on 0457 396 320. Both stores trade from Monday

TIME TO REPLACE YOUR SHEETS... Some of the team at Finny’s Manchester Shepparton including Tina, owner Ray Finn and Shirley. Photo: Stephanie Holliday

to Friday 10am to 5pm and Saturday 9am to 12pm. The Shepparton store will have extended trading hours on Saturday,

December 5 and Saturday, December 12 when they will trade until 2pm.

Bean bags with a boutique touch MORE COMFORTABLE THAN A COUCH...

Boutique Bean Bags owners, Phil Longley and Danielle Comello, offer a selection of high-quality, comfortable and durable indoor and outdoor bean bags. Photo: Stephanie Holliday

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SOMETIMES a couch just doesn't cut it. Winding down to relax and watch a movie has been the go-to pastime for many of us in recent months, and being able to relax on a bean bag makes the experience all the more enjoyable.

Boutique Bean Bags owners, Phil Longley and Danielle Comello, long-term Shepparton locals, purchased the business a little over a year ago and are proud to offer a range of high-quality, comfortable and durable range of both indoor and outdoor bean bags.

Their range includes nine styles of bean bag with a choice of 29 colours, ensuring they have options for all your seating needs.

Offering free pickup and delivery throughout Shepparton and surrounding towns, Boutique Bean Bags also accepts afterpay, ensuring any bean bag Christmas gifts are easy to work into your budget.

With an upcoming Black Friday through to Cyber Monday sale where you can save 25 percent off your purchase, now is a great time to replace your outdoor setting or update your indoor seating options.

Follow them on Facebook and Instagram where they update regularly, visit their website www. boutiquebeanbags.com or give them a call on 0422 702 412.

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NEWS

Prevention is better than a cure MOST readers of this newspaper would have heard of Slip, Slop, Slap.

It's hot here, and at this time of year it feels like the sun is emerging from the t renche s to lau nch it s mont h s -long campaign against humanity. So, in defence of your skin, the least you can do is Slip on a shirt, Slop on some sunscreen and Slap on a hat.

As it goes with simple, easy-to-remember sayings or acronyms – it's been expanded.

Now also remember to Seek shade, and Slide on some sunglasses. Not quite as catchy, but still important.

But what about people who have spent a lifetime in the sun: Truck drivers, farmers, even sportspeople? As a primary prevention method, Slip, Slop, Slap (and Seek and Slide) is still crucially important. But if you're someone who already has signs of solar keratosis – scaly or rough skin patches or sun spots, you must take action to address them, says one Shepparton skin cancer doctor.

Dr Wil Chong of Shepparton's GV Skin and Specialist Centre, says there are ways to treat and even reverse signs

FUN IN THE SUN... Without the sunburn. Some of the team at the GV Skin and Specialist Centre, from left, Gina Baker, Brittany Daniels and Julie Roberts, know what it means to Slip, Slip, Slap, Seek and Slide. Photo: Struan Jones

of solar keratosis. It's important, because this condition is often the precursor to squamous cell carcinoma, which is one of the common skin cancers.

"If you've started to notice some changes, such as dry skin, rough patches, or a scab – get a check. There are several ways we can treat the damage," he said.

"In this region we have a lot of elderly, and the community that's been in the orchard and farming - there's no doubt they've got lots of solar keratosis. If we can

get on top of that, it's less likely that we'll end up with lots of skin cancer."

The message is clear: A lways Slip, Slop, Slap, but if you're noticing signs of permanent skin damage from the sun, do something about it.

The GV Skin and Specialist Centre are professionals in the early detection, diagnosis, treatment and management of skin cancer. They are at 20 Wyndham Street, Shepparton, and can be contacted on 5820 0500.

Roving music across outdoor venues AFTER a live music hiatus across Victoria, the sweet sound of local musicians as we dine outdoors is a welcome relief.

Greater Shepparton City Council will host a range of musicians roving between hospitality venues in the region to support artists and the wider community.

The funding Council received from the State Government for the Local Councils Outdoor Eating and Entertainment Package, will help support the roving music initiative through November and December.

"Roving music is happening now in the region. In November, a

musician will rove between hospitality venues that offer outdoor dining on Fridays and Saturdays for lunch between 12 – 2pm and dinner from 5 – 9pm. In December, this is scheduled for seven days a week," Greater Shepparton City Council director of sustainable development, Geraldine Christou, said.

"It's such a great way to enhance the outdoor dining experience across the region in a COVID safe way, and create a fantastic atmosphere leading into the festive season."

For more information, head to Council's website and Facebook page.

Keeping it clean CLEANING SUPPLIES FOR EVERY TASK...

Everyday Supplies owner, Brad Hill, and customer service assistant, Jeannette Sabri, are experts in all facets of domestic and professional cleaning needs.

Photo: Stephanie Holliday

ON E c at e gor y m a ny p e ople don't factor into their weekly grocery budget is purchasing cleaning products. During recent months however, many of us have been going through disinfectants, hand sanitiser and cleaning implements, such as mops, at a rapid rate.

Cost-per-use is often overlooked, but in the long-run can save hundreds of dollars off your yearly expenses. Buying in bulk is a sure-fire way to ensure not only your cleaning costs are kept as low as possible, but also that you are using full-strength, professional quality products to clean your home or business effectively.

Fa m i ly ow ned a nd r u n Ever yd ay Supplies, operating for over 20 years, are your cleaning product experts. The Everyday Supplies team is well versed in all aspects of cleaning product needs, Page 14- The Adviser Australia No.1:1535 Wednesday, November 18, 2020

from domestic through to industrial and commercial requirements.

As well as a plethora of cleaning solutions to cover all types of cleaning requirements, Everyday Supplies has an extensive range of professional cleaning machiner y, brooms, mops, buckets, window cleaning products, cloths and everything else needed to complete all cleaning, sanitisation and disinfecting tasks across the board.

Everyday Supplies is located at 28-36 New Dookie Road and can be contacted on 5831 7228.

Spend a minimum of $10 and fill out an entry form for your chance to win a share of $15,000. Everyday Supplies is a participating business in the GMCU 2020 $15,000 Cracking Christmas Shopping Spree.

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NEWS

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The Adviser. Australia No.1:1535 Wednesday, November 18, 2020-Page 19

Join The Adviser Delivery Team!

We are looking for deliverers If you are looking for something active to do on a Wednesday then this position is ideal for you.

Interested?

Enquire today!

Call 5832 8900 or email front@ sheppartonadviser. com.au

Page 20- The Adviser Autralia No.1:1535 Wednesday, November 18, 2020

Reach 1000s

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SPORT

Adviser

Redbacks top ladder after round two FIELD BACK... Euroa’s Sham Dadallage bowls to Central Park/St Brendan’s Tyler Larkin on Saturday at Shepparton’s Deakin Reserve. Dadallage bowled his full nine overs and finished with 2/26, however it wasn’t enough to stop Larkin. Photo: Struan Jones

By Struan Jones KYABRAM has pushed its way to the top of the Cricket Shepparton ladder after two rounds with a 60-run win over Shepparton United on Saturday at Kyabram.

A dominant 123 -run opening partnership between Paul Newman and Billy McLay put the home side in the box seat, and a quick-fire 41 from captain Kyle Mueller helped his side finish at 5/214.

In response, a 70 from Christopher Rendina held United's innings together, but ultimately finished at 9/154.

I n ot her resu lts , C ent ra l Pa rk / St Brendans has secured second place on the ladder with a strong 52-run win over Euroa.

Tyler Larkin starred for the Tigers with 94 and a cool-headed 37-run innings by Joe Kelly saw the home side push their total out to 7/202.

With the bat, Euroa were pinned down and struggled to get on top of the Tiger's bowling attack. A 4/28 from Rhiley Lau saw the Magpies all out for 150.

In other results, an incredible 6/39 by Northerners' bowler Joel Brett helped contain Nagambie to 159, however in reply Northerners were bowled out for 149 – 11 runs short of victory. Nagambie now sits third on the ladder.

Old Students defeated Tatura by 35 runs after a massive 112-run partnership between Old Students' Nick Breslin (79) and Gino Saracino (55*) saved their innings.

Waaia defeated Numurkah by 22 runs.

Bowling honours went to Waaia's Jesse Trower, who bowled nine overs and took 3/11.

Mooroopna crushed Katandra in one of those results you don't like to see too many of. Katandra was all out in the 24th over for 48. Mooroopna openers Corey Windridge and Brodie McDonald had the game completed in the ninth over after hitting a combined four boundaries and a six.

Karramomus had the bye but will pick up and travel to Tatura on Saturday.

COMPOSED... Tyler Larkin in action for Central Park/St Brendans on Saturday, on his way to a cool 94 and victory over Euroa. The Tigers sit second on the Cricket Shepparton ladder. Photo: Struan Jones

GVL cautiously plans for 2021 NEXT year's Goulburn Valley League (GV L) football and netball season may commence in April 2021, or not at all – such is the uncertainty around Coronavirus restrictions going forward.

GVL Board Chairperson, David Roff, said the priority of the GVL continued to be "the health and wellbeing of its supporters, players, umpires, officials, partners, volunteers and committees and everyone across all of our local communities."

"We will continue to await the announcements from State Government in relation to the further easing of

restrictions, including those around crowd numbers, the numbers of people at outdoor gatherings, whether contact training and play can resume and numbers in a hospitality setting," Mr Roff said.

"These announcements will be major deciding factors as to whether the 2021 season goes ahead and if so in what format."

T he league is finalising a draf t fixture, which is expected to be ratified at the November President's Meeting, which will follow the league's AGM on Wednesday, November 25.

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NEWS

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