The Adviser 1650

Turn up The Heat

By Stephanie Holliday

TWO local ladies are heating up the airwaves with a podcast that tackles a broad range of issues, from navigating the peculiarities of social media posting through to one woman’s harrowing story of domestic violence.

Tegan Fairley and Hollie Johnston started their podcast on the basis of a strong friendship coupled with a passion for discussing the deeper issues and complexities of modern life (with a plethora of good banter thrown into the mix).

Having grown up and worked in Shepparton, both have strong connections to influential people, leaders and business owners in our community, and beyond.

“It was a combination of having those existing connections with interesting people and our ability to scratch beneath the surface, to get to the real core of issues, that led to this path,” explained Hollie.

Their podcast aims to be an inclusive space for people of all genders and walks of life. While their take on issues is seen

through a female lens, they want their listeners to know they are strong advocates of the education, mental health and wellbeing of everyone.

“We feel as though our early episodes served as a great introduction of who we are and discussed topics that are very relevant to our lives currently. Although they are discerned from our early 30’s, female perspective, we think they are a good listen for people from all sectors of society,” said Tegan.

The Heat has already had notable guests feature such as international online coach Hannah Lawson of @hanalicious.food and Miss Universe finalist and domestic violence advocate, Raychel Lewis. Their future line-up of guests includes a range of entrepreneurs, academic experts and health professionals, among other interesting people with a message to share to the wider community.

You can listen to The Heat on Spotify and Apple Podcasts, with new episodes dropping every Friday at 9am. Give them a follow on Instagram @the_heatpodcast.

AFTER a stellar effort cleaning up and repairs after the devasting October floods, Aquamove’s outdoor 50m pool re-opened last Tuesday, just in time for some scorching hot summer days.

The Raymond West change rooms and toilets are still under repair, however Aquamoves are working hard to restore these facilities.

“We have greatly appreciated your patience and understanding throughout

the flood recovery repairs and look forward to welcoming back all our outdoor swimmers,” said Aquamoves centre manager Steven Wilson.

To cool off in the outdoor pool, head down during these opening hours:

• Monday to Friday: 6.00am-9.00am and 4.00pm-7.00pm

• Saturdays: 7.00am-6.30pm

• Sundays: 8.30am-6.30pm

LOCAL LADIES LAUNCH PODCAST... Tegan Fairley and Hollie Johnston are well into the first season of their podcast ‘The Heat’, which stemmed from their passion for discussing the deeper issues and complexities of modern life. Photo: Stephanie Holliday

JUMP IN... Aquamove’s outdoor 50m pool re-opened last Tuesday, just in time for some scorching hot summer days. The Raymond West change rooms and toilets are still under repair, however Aquamoves are working hard to restore these facilities.

Photo: Deanne Jeffers

THE central hub will be based in Melbourne, and the Goulburn Valley in-home and in-patient care delivered at Ramsay’s Shepparton Private Hospital will provide five new beds in our region.

GV Health consultant psychiatrist Dr Rajlaxmi Khopade spoke of how women are approximately twice as likely to suffer from mental illness when compared to men, which is why specialised care is required.

“The partnership also allows for providing consultation and support to build capacity of local services to provide worldleading care,” said Dr Khopade.

“We recognise that women face unique challenges including high rates of sexual and physical abuse, single parenthood and poverty, which along with other social and economic inequities, act as barriers to accessing mental healthcare,” Dr Khopade said.

“Working as a mental health practitioner in the Goulburn Valley region for over a decade, I have witnessed these issues first-hand among the women I treat. I am immensely proud to be part of the launch of a new service that will better support women in our community on their journey to recovery.”

In the coming months, the Alfred Health and Ramsay Health Care teams will commence delivery of psychiatric care to women in the metropolitan Melbourne community, with the service’s hub to open in the second half of 2023.

The development of the new service is driven by recommendations from the Royal Commission into Victoria's Mental Health System, which heard that a range of genderbased safety issues significantly impacted women’s experiences of in-patient mental health care.

WOMEN’S MENTAL HEALTH HUB... Shepparton Private Hospital CEO Ramsay Health Care Rhys Jones, director women’s mental health service, Alfred Health, consultant psychiatrist GV Health Dr Rajlaxmi Khopade and consumer peer support worker GV

Photo:

Huge turnout to Wings & Wheels

By Deanne Jeffers

AROUND 140 cars, as well as over 30 aircraft were proudly on display at Shepparton Airport on Sunday, February 19, for the fourth and the largest iteration of Wings & Wheels.

“This is the Goulburn Valley Aero Club’s fly-in or drivein event featuring air and car enthusiasts from across the state,” said GV Aero Club vice president and long-time aviator, Paul Phillips.

Sponsored by Shannons, eventgoers could grab a bite to eat and check out the impressive range of classic cars, motorcycles, planes and even helicopters. Entry to the show and shine was $5, with proceeds going to the Royal Flying Doctor Service. Around $700 was raised on the day.

Car of the show was a 1932 Ford Coupe owned by Shepparton’s Georgie Peacock, while Steve Lenne’s Van’s RV-3 single-seat airplane that he built himself won the best aircraft.

A major drawcard for aviators was the opportunity to take part in a demonstration of OzRunways – Australia’s leading Electronic Flight Bag (EFB) application. Landing fees were also waived during the event.

Wings & Wheels started in 2022, with three fundraising events during the year. This was the first to be held in 2023. For future events, follow www.facebook.com/ GoulburnValleyAeroclub.

VOTED BEST AIRCRAFT... Steve Lenne’s Van’s Aircraft RV-3 was voted ‘best aircraft’ on display at Wings & Wheels. It is a single-seat aircraft that he built himself. Photos: Deanne Jeffers

VOTED BEST VEHICLE... Amongst 140 cars at the show and shine, Georgie Peacock’s 1932 Ford Coupe was voted car of the show.

ADVISER IN THE SKY... Shepparton Airport in Kialla pictured from the sky with cars and planes gathered for the Wings & Wheels show and shine.

BIGGEST YET... In its fourth iteration, Wings & Wheels was bigger and better than ever drawing huge crowds to check out the 140 cars and more than 30 aircraft on display.

Summer sale event hits Shepparton

THIS Friday and Saturday the Summer City Market will take over Maude Steet with market stalls, live music, delicious food and super fun games for the whole family to enjoy.

Returning to the traditional last weekend of summer, locals and visitors can celebrate the final days of summer in the newly redeveloped Maude Street precinct, which was designed to be a shared space for events with extra street furniture, stage areas and improved lighting to welcome shoppers to the region.

Greater Shepparton City Council place manager, Bonnie McIntosh said they’re expecting a big turnout for the weekend.

“Whether you’re keen to try some of the city’s best food,

see live music, soak up some quality time at the hairdressers or take in the market spirit, there will be something for everyone at the market and past years show they are not to be missed,” Ms McIntosh said.

“These market events are important to support our local hospitality and retail businesses, they deliver a significant boost to our economy but just as importantly, they also provide our community an experience to remember.

“This year there will be a few exciting additions to the Market, as well as some returning favourites.”

Snap up the best of summer sales along Maude Street and beyond at the Summer City Market, this Friday, February 24, 9am-6pm and Saturday, February 25, 9am-4pm.

Basin Plan deadline imminent with no Plan B in sight

continued from front page

PART of the Plan stipulates that by 2024, 450GL should be recovered and returned to the environment. However, politicians on both sides seem to agree that targets cannot be met, with only 4.5GL of 450GL recovered by October 31, 2022.

GMID Water Leadership Group co-chairs David McKenzie and Suzanna Sheed met with state Water Minister, Harriet Shing by invitation earlier this month, ahead of the Ministerial Council (MinCo) meeting of water ministers to occur later this week.

“We used the meeting to share the concerns of our irrigation communities in northern Victoria. There is escalating uncertainty as to how the plan can be implemented, given that it is known that there will be a shortfall in water recovery, and the timeframes set nearly a decade ago cannot be met,” said Ms Sheed.

“The entrenched positions of all parties to the plan and a lack of vision and leadership about innovative resolutions to the impasse were some of the issues we raised with the

Minister.

“The previous federal government was fully aware of these issues and maintained that the Murray Darling Basin Plan would be delivered in full and on time but failed to address possible alternative means or any way forward,” she said.

Mr McKenzie advised Minister Shing that communities were rightly concerned about outcomes from the imminent MinCo meeting and the lack of transparency around these meetings.

“At the very least the agenda for these meetings should be publicly available so that communities can see what might be coming and what governments are considering. The lack of Federal leadership has been very disappointing.

“As we move toward the last stages there are opportunities for innovation and creative solutions to achieve outcomes which will ultimately see the primary goals of the plan achieved", Mr McKenzie said.

He said with the NSW election only weeks away, there are concerns that once again, no

TARGETS CAN’T BE MET... GMID Water Leadership Group, co-chaired by David McKenzie and Suzanna Sheed (pictured), met with the state water minister this month to share the region’s concerns about the Murray-Darling Basin Plan, which has not reached critical targets set out in the Plan. Photo: The Adviser

meaningful decisions will be taken.

“It is essential that the work already done, in particular, the water recovered by Victoria is acknowledged and respected and that we do not see Victoria ultimately disadvantaged for leading the way in the plan when other states have lagged behind,” Mr McKenzie said, adding, “We were very pleased with the Minister's assurances that Victoria will strongly maintain its position, continuing to endeavour to meet its obligations under the plan noting that it has already delivered more water than any other jurisdiction, and that it will stand firm on the application of be socio-economic test and remains opposed to any buybacks toward the 450GL of

additional environmental water.”

GMID Water Leadership Group met for a forum on Monday ahead the MinCo meeting later in the week.

SNAG A BARGAIN... The Summer City Market is back this Friday and Saturday, February 24-25, with live music, shopping sales, tasty food and more happening in the redeveloped Maude Street precinct.

Photo: Deanne Jeffers

Applause please!

By Cheryl Hammer, executive officer of Destination Goulburn Valley (DGV) DESTINATION

Goulburn Valley’s new look and a fresh way of telling our story to potential investors and visitors has got a lot of us up and about.

This coincides with a timely rebranding of Greater Shepparton City Council’s tourism message to the world, acknowledging that visitors are not guided by council boundaries, but are drawn in by unique experiences and great hospitality.

Two decades ago, when I launched my Lavender farmgate business and

accommodation offering, there was little support for, and no belief in, tourism initiatives to drive visitation and new dollars to our region. I applaud the change of attitude but lament the time it has taken.

The present collective approach to promote our Goulburn Valley region as a fabulous place to visit is catching on with recent statistics demonstrating that people are choosing to visit our backyard for their holiday.

The pandemic, recent floods and storms, and the persistent high cost of living has hit hard most in the tourism industry, with

ABOUT TIME... Cheryl Hammer has been appointed the executive officer of Destination Goulburn Valley, the rebranded ‘Tourism Greater Shepparton’ that seeks to celebrate and promote tourism across our entire region. Greater Shepparton City Council also recently updated its ‘Visit Shepparton’ and ‘Many Great Things’ brands to ‘Shepparton & Goulburn Valley’, indicating a shift toward celebrating the region at large and promoting the visitor economy.

some operators still recovering, but on the whole, we are shouting from the rooftops that we are worth a visit and will deliver experiences that sets us apart.

Our visitor economy is worth millions of dollars to our region, let’s keep the door open and celebrate who we are.

To learn more about DGV, please visit www.destinationgoulburnvalley.com.au

Shepparton Festival like you’ve never seen it before

By Deanne Jeffers

THE official program for this years’ Shepparton Festival was revealed Thursday, February 16 by festival chair Kirsten Green and director Kristen Retallick, featuring a special live operatic performance by Allegra Giagu.

Launching its 27th year, The Shepparton Festival will run for 17 days offering experiences in artistic expression.

Shepparton Festival director Kristen Retallick

Amongst the line-up of performances, live music, exhibitions, workshops, and experiences, highlights include a Spanish Opera at Tallis Wines performed by Ms Giagu and Mamás Bravas, a Multicultural Comedy Gala featuring big names in comedy like Dilruk Jayasinha and Ivan Aristeguieta, art exhibitions featuring local artists like Tom Day, Rachel

Doller and Tammy-Lee Atkinson, and much more.

This is Ms Retallick’s first festival as its new director. She said, “It’s exciting to see the program out in the public. I’m really excited by the number of live music offerings, and it’s great to have many new events and acts part of this years’ festival.”

You can apply to volunteer at this years’ festival online and also find ‘Call to Create 2024’ to submit artworks that express your ideas of what the Shepparton Festival is or what you think it can be. The successful applicant help shape 2024’s promotional material. Applications close March 6.

The Shepparton Festival will run March 17 to April 2, 2023. Explore the full program and purchase tickets at sheppartonfestival.org.au.

Free Kinder is here!

Three- and Four-Year-Old Kinder is now free across Victoria at participating services — saving families up to $2,500 per year per child.

Over the decade, we’ll also transition Four-Year-Old Kinder into Pre-Prep to become a 30-hour a week program, and establish 50 Victorian Government-owned and affordable childcare centres.

Learn more at vic.gov.au/kinder

Photo: Supplied

UNVEILING... Shepparton Festival director Kristen Retallick reveals this years’ program at The Vault. The 2023 festival celebrates the individual creative contributors of our city and region who “from many pixels” make the picture complete. The Shepparton Festival will run March 17 to April 2, 2023, bringing several exciting events to the region.

Photo: Deanne Jeffers

it’s great to have many new events and acts part of this years’ festival

Funds allocated for road repairs

FIVE local councils, including the City of Greater Shepparton, will share in almost $10M through phase four of the Local Roads and Community Infrastructure (LRCI) program.

Federal Member for Nicholls, Sam Birrell, said the money is for improving each council’s local road networks and for the delivery of priority community infrastructure projects.

$500M is being made available to councils across Australia with an additional $250M to support road projects in rural, regional and outer urban areas.

“The Local Road and Community Infrastructure program was established by the Coalition Government, and this round will be critically important to municipalities in Nicholls,” Mr Birrell said.

“The extremely wet weather and flooding in late 2022 has placed an additional burden on local government, with many roads requiring significant and costly

upgrades over and above the scheduled maintenance they had planned for.”

He said more targeted funding would be required to repair and restore thousands of kilometres of rural roads.

Allocations under phase four of the LRCI program are Campaspe Shire Council $2,622,795; City of Greater Shepparton $2,033,496; Mitchell Shire Council $1,174,256; Moira Shire Council $2,544,893; and Strathbogie Shire Council $1,439,568.

“Guidelines and grant agreements are yet to be finalised, but I would urge the Government to ensure councils that were subject to disaster declarations are given priority access to the targeted $250 million fund,” said Mr Birrell.

Previous projects funded under the LRCI include Vibert Reserve Pavilion, improving lighting on paths around Victoria Park Lake, and upgrading outdoor aquatic facilities at Avenel and Nagambie.

Two-day event to address climate and job challenge

IN HIS maiden speech to parliament Federal Member for Nicholls, Sam Birrell MP addressed climate change as the key challenge facing Australia, emphasising that discussion should focus on how we act, not if.

On Thursday, February 23, Mr Birrell will bring business and community leaders together for a two-day Climate Leadership and Jobs Summit.

The event is designed to give leaders from across Nicholls the opportunity to come together, to learn, connect and make shared plans and strategies to ensure the region benefits as the world moves to a lower emissions economy.

“I’m determined to create relationships between energy experts and leaders in Nicholls to ensure jobs, profitability and productivity grow in our region long into the future,” Mr Birrell said.

Hosted in Shepparton, the event will see 13 leading climate researchers, scientists, experts and community leaders speak and includes Dr Sarah Birrell Ivory the director of the University of Edinburgh Centre for Business, Climate Change and Sustainability; Professor Mark Howden, director of climate change Institute at the Australian National University; and Heidi Lee, CEO of Beyond Zero Emissions.

Guests will get in depth insights from speakers and will have two days to engage one-on-one with participants.

The summit aims to focus on how the Goulburn-Murray region can continue to grasp new economic opportunities as

ADDRESSING THE ISSUE OF OUR TIME...

Federal Member for Nicholls, Sam Birrell MP will bring together business and community leaders for a two-day Climate Leadership and Job Summit in Shepparton, beginning Thursday, February 23. Photo: The Adviser

Australia moves to net zero by 2050 with bipartisan support.

Attendance to this event is by invitation only.

Ancient stone toolkit discovery changes history

AN international team of archaeologists –including researchers from La Trobe University – have found what is likely to be the oldest examples of a stone age innovation, in the form of a stone toolkit, as well as the oldest evidence of hominins consuming very large animals. Researchers previously assumed that only the genus Homo, to which humans belong, was capable of making stone tools. However, along the shores of Lake Victoria in Kenya,

(meaning besides man) fossils were discovered next to these stone tools at a time period when Homo is not present, opening up fascinating possibilities of another hominin species using tools.

New research published in Science reveals the stone tools were used hundreds of thousands of years earlier than previously thought, and over a larger geographic area. Researcher at La Trobe University, and

head of The Australian Archaeomagnetism Laboratory, professor Andy Herries, completed the palaeomagnetic dating on the rocks found at the African site. This process identifies magnetic changes and reversals in Earth's magnetic field fossilised in rocks to work out their age.

"The magnetic minerals in layers in which the Paranthropus fossils and stone tools occur are pointing towards the north, as they do

today, but just below this they are pointing in random directions that show the Earth's magnetic field was going through a change from pointing south to pointing north," said professor Herries.

"When combined with other dating methods, this suggests the fossils and stone tools date to just after three million years old, making them the oldest known of this species and industry."

MILLIONS TO COMMUNITIES... Five local shires will share in around $10M to improve local road networks and to deliver priority community infrastructure projects. Previous projects funded under the Local Roads and Community Infrastructure program include Vibert Reserve Pavilion, pictured. Photo: Deanne Jeffers

Authorised by Wendy Lovell MP, 222 Wyndham Street Shepparton. Funded from Parliamentary Budget

The GV needs on-time ambulances, not excuses

GOULBURN Valley residents who need an ambulance are being forced to wait at least an hour as Victoria’s Triple-Zero response times become the worst in the nation.

Fewer than two in three (65.6 per cent) emergency calls for an ambulance were answered on time – the lowest level of any state or territory – and worse than 2020-21, where data showed 88.9 percent of calls were answered on time.

Additionally, ambulance response times have increased by 23.1 percent across Victoria.

The Nationals Member for Shepparton District, Kim O’Keeffe, said Triple-Zero was now in crisis, with locals’ lives being put at risk.

“People expect that when they call an ambulance in a life-threatening situation, one will arrive on time,” Ms O’Keeffe said.

“But this simply hasn’t been the case. I was recently contacted by a resident who was told that an ambulance would be ‘at least an hour’ despite them being severely ill and unable to move. Their family was forced to improvise a stretcher out of the house and drive them to Goulburn Valley Health’s Emergency Department, where they were seen to immediately.”

WORST WAIT TIMES... Fewer than two in three emergency calls for an ambulance were answered on time in the Goulburn Valley, the lowest level of any state or territory. The Nationals Member for Shepparton District, Kim O’Keeffe, said TripleZero was now in

These startling figures are despite Victoria operating the most expensive ambulance service in the nation, spending almost $140M more than NSW in 2021-22.

“Victorians are footing the bill for an inefficient and broken system, and the

longer this goes on, the more peoples’ lives are in danger,” Ms O’Keeffe said.

“The Government has failed to understand the serious health system issues plaguing regional Victoria.”

Rural women’s leadership and mentoring programs

By Stephanie Holliday

WOMEN across Victoria living in regional and rural areas can apply for the 2023 Rural Women's Network Leadership and Mentoring Programs up until 5pm on February 27.

Both programs will encourage and empower participants to have an active voice and role in the agriculture sector. The leadership program will provide women with support to participate in training or study that accelerates their development as leaders. Whilst the mentoring program pairs rural women for a peer-to-peer exchange of skills and experience.

Sheree Fitzgerald of Goulburn-Murray Water participated in the Mentoring Program in 2022 and found it to be an invaluable experience.

"The program was terrific and provided a wide range of practical business and career skills, tips and advice for women in regional areas. The program connected with you with some impressive rural women across the state who make a significant contribution to a range of agriculture industries, public sector and rural health," said Sheree.

"It's a great opportunity and I encourage others to apply for it."

Up to 16 women work together in pairs under the 12-month mentoring program, with the leadership program comprising of a structured 12-month program which

combines a core program of study with an individual program of study, open to 10 women from across Victoria.

To be eligible, applicants must be an Australian citizen or permanent resident, reside in regional or rural Victoria, be involved or interested in the Victorian agriculture sector and/or the Victorian agriculture supply chain and confirm their availability for the duration of the program.

For more information and to apply for either program, visit the Rural Women's Network page on the Agriculture Victoria website.

AN INVALUABLE OPPORTUNITY...

Rural Women’s Network Leadership and Mentoring Programs are accepting applicants until 5pm February 27. Sheree Fitzgerald of Goulburn-Murray Water was a recent participant in the mentorship component of the programs. Both programs will encourage and empower participants to have an active voice and role in the agriculture sector. Photo: Supplied

5822 1555

177-193 Numurkah Rd, Shepparton VIC www.fairleysiga.com.au

crisis, with locals’ lives being put at risk.

Harcourts Rinnovate Business Brokers

COMMUNITY CONNECT

Tell us about your ‘not-for-profit’ community events via email at classifieds@sheppartonadviser.com.au (information is required at least 2 weeks before an event). Please note listings are to be fewer than 55 words.

SHEPPARTON ROWING CLUB

COMMUNITY CHEST CHARITY

NIGHT... Tuesday, February 28 at the Shepparton Brewery. Pot luck dinner $30pp for two set courses and a pot. Members will be serving the meals and sharing stories about their love for rowing. All profits raised will be donated to the Allied Health Department at GV Health. For more info call 0427 769 464. Book a table https://tableagent.com/restaurant/

shepparton-brewery/event/181315/ community-chest-pot-luck-dinner-forshepparton-rowing-club/ POWERSAVE $250 BONUS (PSB4)…

Mooroopna Education and Activity Centre (MEAC) will be processing the next round (PSB4) $250 Powersaver bonus applications. Community members with an electricity account in their name are entitled to claim. You will need to bring in an electricity account dated within

Mayor to advance regional concerns with new position

REGIONAL Cities Victoria (RCV) is a leadership group comprised of the mayors and CEOs of the largest 10 cities outside of Melbourne, including Shepparton, Bendigo and Mildura.

Collectively home to more than 600k Victorians, RCV members work co-operatively on issues and projects of mutual interest that affect regional cities, as well as the whole state of Victoria, with

a vision to build a sustainable Victoria through regional growth.

On Thursday, February 16, Greater Shepparton City Council mayor, Cr Shane Sali was pleased to be elected for the first time, as deputy chair of RCV, complementing City of Bendigo mayor, Cr Andrea Metcalf as chair.

Thanking RCV representatives for their support in electing him to the position, Cr Sali said, “I look forward to seeing what we can achieve collectively.

“Regional cities across Victoria have faced several years of hardship, however, they have shown great resilience and strength as they continue to work through their recovery.

“It is so important that we continue to advocate to improve the infrastructure, services and amenities in regional areas to continue to attract people to work, live and visit these parts of the state,” Cr Sali said.

one month from March 1 onwards and identification with the same address as the electricity bill. Due to the anticipated demand, we suggest that once you have received your March onward dated account, call MEAC on (03) 5825 1774 to make an appointment to process your claim. If you have not already claimed the 2022 (PSB3) $250, you still have until the end of February to do so.

PROMOTING REGIONAL CONCERNS WITH HIS NEW POSITION... as deputy chair of Regional Cities Victoria, Greater Shepparton City Council mayor, Cr Shane Sali (pictured) will work alongside a leadership group comprised of mayors and CEOs from the largest 10 cities in the state, outside of Melbourne.

Photo: Supplied

Local store helping local people with low prices

PRICES have crashed across hundreds of items at Finny’s in the heart of Shepparton, including quality quilt covers, sheet sets, oddments and so much more.

With a 40 percent reduction on giftware, Christmas stock, Sheridan plain dyed bath towels and table clothes, Finny’s is ‘a local store that aims to support local people’ with exceptional prices.

Available in cool, aquamarine shades, superb Marguerite quilt cover sets are selling for a song with single bed quilt cover sets going for just $15, marked down from $89.95 while super king sets are $29 slashed from $139.95.

Crazy prices are echoed in luxuriant Ruby Plush quilt covers, Ellen Degeneres and Laura Ashley sheet sets as well as Alastair’s summer

weight cotton quilts and deluxe pillows.

With 47 pallets having arrived from one of Australia’s leading suppliers, Finny’s is also pleased to present its’s massive oddment clearance sale which includes a broad range of homewares taking in everything from vibrant beach towels, to mugs, crockery, kids' lunchboxes, candles and diffusers.

Excited about the impressive range on offer, proprietor Ray Finn said, “As a Sheppartonowned store, we go out of our way to provide

Fabulous salon welcomes new staff and location

COLOURFUL, fun and super friendly, the vibrant and talented staff at Tis Hair and Beauty have moved just around the corner to a new salon at shop 2/ 22 Poplar Avenue in Shepparton.

Catering to the needs of all clients, Kylie and Ashlea are also pleased to welcome Dahyna to their team, broadening their offering of services and personalised customer service.

A well-known and experienced hairdresser in her own right, Dahyna is also a make-up artist who complements her colleagues in providing the best consultation and expertise to help clients achieve the look they desire.

Offering a comprehensive range of hairdressing services as well as hair extensions, body waxing and professional make-up, Tis Hair and Beauty is the place go to help you look and feel fabulous.

The animated and fun-loving salon also provides the very best in vegan haircare with its extensive Keune range as well as being the only stockist of luxuriant Biosilk colour care products in Shepparton.

So, if you want to look and feel your best and get the pampering and customer service you deserve, why not pop into Tis Hair and Beauty’s new salon in Poplar Avenue, where everyone is welcome, especially members of the LGBTQI+ community who can feel safe and comfortable, relaxing in their own skin.

people quality products at prices as low as possible.

“We’ve marked lots and lots of items down and we’ll continue to do so, it's all about trying to help people be able acquire what they need.”

Finny’s Manchester is located at 136 High Street, Shepparton and are open Monday to Friday, 10am to 5pm and on Saturdays from 9am-to 12pm.

You can also shop online at www. finnysmanchester.com.au

LOST SOMETHING?

A black ‘Sea to Summit’ bag containing various bicycle items was found on Ann Street, Mooroopna, on Monday, January 30, 2023. To claim, please contact Mooroopna Police Station or make enquires via email: vp37390@police.vic.gov.au

WATER SAFETY MESSAGE

When in or around water, please keep in mind that lakes and inland waterways are not patrolled by lifeguards. There is also plenty of debris that’s ended up in lakes and lurking below the surface after last year’s floods. Stay safe by remembering:

• Watch out for hidden dangers, such as submerged objects

• Read safety signs to understand the dangers

• Be careful around lakes’ edges as they can be slippery and unstable

• When boating, wear a lifejacket and be prepared for unexpected falls into water

• If you're going for a swim, choose a place where you can walk into the water.

For more tips on waterway safety, visit www. police.vic.gov.au/beach-and-waterways-safety

VIBRANT, FRIENDLY AND A WHOLE LOT OF FUN... Tis Hair and Beauty has moved to a new shop in Poplar Avenue and welcomes talented new staff member, Dahyna to the salon. Pictured from left is Dahyna, Kylie and Ashlea, a dedicated team who will have you looking and feeling your best after feeling pampered in their fun-loving care.

As Kylie said, “We always have lot of fun here and our clients always come first. We aim to make the salon an environment where people can come and feel pampered and have a good old laugh.”

Please call 03 5822 2992 for all inquiries or to make a booking.

Photo: Natasha Fujimoto

MASSIVE

SALE WITH UNBELIEVABLY LOW PRICES...is now on at Finny’s Manchester in the heart of Shepparton. Retail assistants Darielle (left) and Shirley help display just a fraction of the broad range of oddments and quality quilts, sheets and coverlets selling for a song.

Photo: Natasha Fujimoto

Come see for yourself: stage six selling fast

WITH the number of singles and couples choosing to make their home in over 50s lifestyle villages increasing, Kensington Gardens in South Shepparton continues to grow to meet demand.

Nestled on a 55-acre estate on Channel Road, the sixth stage of development will provide an additional 31 new residences. Those looking to buy in Kensington Gardens select their home from a range of award winning three-and-four-bedroom floor plans, with access to the luxury club house and amenities included in the cost.

Residents are supported to live independent, full lives by participating

in regular social activities and events and taking advantage of amenities like the cinema, bar, pool and fully equipped gym.

For your peace of mind, all Kensington Gardens’ homes are equipped with an emergency phone. 24-hour on-site response is provided by staff members and your garden will be cared for by Kensington Gardens’ grounds people.

There are only 12 blocks of 31 still available in stage six, the final part of development.

“There are eight lots available right now ready to build on. We have some Spec homes at the building permit stage now as

well,” said village manager Troy Van Den Berghe.

To arrange a private, one-on-one tour,

please contact Troy on 0417 648 286 or troy@kensingtongardens.com.au

Bowls, golf and buddies: Mooroopna Golf Club has it all

THERE’S nothing quite like the sense of personal satisfaction and camaraderie felt when exercising or playing a team sport with a group. Many people take up lawn bowls or golf to maintain their quality of life and connections.

You’ll be spoilt for choice at the Mooroopna Golf Club, known as ‘the friendly club’, which has both lawn bowls and golfing facilities, including a driving range and pro-shop.

"We love seeing our members get together and enjoy themselves at the club. It’s a great place to meet old friends for a game or to make new friends,” said Mooroopna Golf Club manager, Craig Prothero.

Mooroopna Golf Club has two grass greens, with pennant competitions played on Saturdays and Tuesdays. Both RVBA and VLBA pennant competitions run from October to March, with social bowls played on Thursday evenings.

There are a range of membership options to suit most people, with social membership from $5 that includes a drink discount and entry into the members draw, and full membership (golf and bowls) being $595. Those aged 65+ will have 10 percent waived on the price of a full membership. There are also ‘pay as you golf’ options available, where you pay your membership via instalments.

HAVING A GOOD TIME... Mooroopna Golf Club, ‘the friendly club’ has two grass greens for playing lawn bowls in addition to premier golfing facilities. Pictured are Bruce Morris and Col Wheelhouse from the Mooroopna team and Brian Nisbet from East Shepparton playing division 2 midweek lawn bowls.

Deanne Jeffers

Mooroopna Golf Club prides itself on being a friendly and harmonious club. New players of all ages are always welcome. Check out their facilities at 2 Fairway Drive, Mooroopna, or visit their website at www. mooroopnagolfclub.com

ACTIVITIES FOR ALL... Residents at Kensington Gardens can select their home from a range of award winning floor plans, with access to the luxury club house and amenities included in the cost. Pictured are residents enjoying a game of table tennis on Friday morning.

Front row from left is Peter, Bev, and Marg K. Back row from left is Alice, Neil, Bruce M, Snow, Mick, Marg C, Robert, Bernie, Bruce H, Doug and Ray.

Photo: Deanne Jeffers

Photo:

February 2023

Tech, set, go!

SHEPPARTON Library is not only a hub for those who love a good book and a chance to connect with one’s community.

Every Tuesday, they host invaluable ‘Ready, Tech, Go’ sessions at 10.30am. They also offer ‘Tech 000’ by appointment, where a staff member will provide one-on-one tech help to those in need.

It can be tricky to navigate the digital landscape even for those who use computers daily, for example, filling out online forms can be confusing at the best of times. These free sessions can help people tackle daunting tasks and improve attendees' general digital literacy.

While all library staff are happy to offer basic, brief assistance, Peter Gillson is the man to see on Thursdays for extended, prearranged tech help.

HELP IS ON THE WAY... Every Tuesday, Shepparton Library host invaluable ‘Ready, Tech, Go’ sessions at 10:30am. They also offer ‘Tech 000’ by appointment, where a staff member, most likely Peter Gillson pictured above, will provide one-on-one tech help to those in need.

“If you don’t succeed, try and try again, and if you’re still stuck, I’m here to help,” said Peter.

Your library membership also grants access to an online computer and technology-based training centre, ComputerSchool. Touted as the "world's largest online technology training website,” with more than 10,000 lessons and tutorials available, it is accessible to library members

Goulburn Valley Hearing Clinic now provides cochlear

to adults

through the GVL website gvlibraries.com.au.

Mooroopna and Cobram library also offer these sessions by appointment, with participants able to book in by contacting individual branches. For further information, please visit the ‘events’ tab at gvlibraries.com.au or call 1300 374 765. Shepparton Library is located at 41 Marungi St, next to the Riverlinks and Council offices.

Singing for the love of music and friendship

By Natasha Fujimoto

IF you have been known to enjoy a good sing along or like to jump right into a chorus, then the Sing Australia Shepparton group is for you.

Meeting every Thursday morning from 9.30 to 11am at the serene Baptist Church in Wyndham Street, the Sing Australia Group is keen to welcome new members of all ages to join their friendly and social group.

With a large repertoire of songs spanning six Sing Australia books, group leader, Meryl Fitzgerald said new members are not required to read music but need only to share the love of song.

Performing last December at the Mooroopna and Dookie Christmas carols,

Meryl said the group hoped to return to retirement villages this year to perform, an outing that had been popularly received prior to Covid.

With an experienced and talented accompanist leading the music, the group practice time provides the perfect opportunity for people to stop in after dropping the kids off at school.

Participants are also welcome to stay on after the singing for social fun and friendship, something that Meryl cherishes as she said, "For me it's the social part of the group that I really love.

"I truly enjoy meeting all the different people who come together in a shared appreciation of music, after all, that's what it

is all about, the love of singing!"

The Sing Australia Shepparton group meets every Thursday morning from 9.30 to 11am at the Shepparton Baptist Church at 600 Wyndham Street, Shepparton. For further inquiries please contact group leader Meryl on 0418 578 369.

Hearing aids can make sounds louder, but not always clearer. In some hearing loss, the inner part of the ear is so damaged that no matter how loud speech is, it’s impossible to get clarity. A cochlear implant replaces the damaged part of the inner ear to restore the sense of hearing.

If you’d like to learn more about cochlear implants we welcome you to attend one of our regular information sessions. Call us on 5821 6600 to book your place at our next information session on Friday 24 March 2023. Places are strictly limited.

Photo: Stephanie Holliday

SINGING FOR THE LOVE OF MUSIC... Pictured from left, Sharron Beard, Heather Neely, Kathy Slingo, Dinah Reeve, Glenda Reynolds, Dot Amery, Diane Baglin, Diane Norman, Meryl Fitzgerald, Christine Milligan, Anne Whyats and Lillian Viney. Photo: Natasha Fujimoto

Improving the quality of life for Australians in aged care

By Stephanie Holliday

THE new Code of Conduct for Aged Care was introduced on December 1 2022. After thorough consultation, it has been implemented to improve the safety, health, wellbeing and lifestyle for people receiving aged care, and to bolster trust in services to help build confidence in the safety and quality of care for older Australians.

Developed by the Commonwealth Department of Health and Aged Care in response to recommendations of the aged care royal commission, the code will be regulated by the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission. It has been based on the existing National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) Code of Conduct.

The Code sets out standards of expected behaviours and applies equally to approved aged care providers and their governing persons (e.g. board members).

It also applies to aged care workers who are employed or otherwise engaged by the provider, employed or otherwise engaged by a contractor or subcontractor of the provider to provide care or other services to consumers. This includes volunteers.

The Code applies to approved providers of residential, home care and flexible care services. Flexible care includes the transition care program, multi-purpose services program and short-term restorative care program.

A copy of the Aged Care and Other Legislation Amendment (Royal Commission Response) Act 2022 is

AGED CARE REFORMS... After thorough consultation, a new Code of Conduct for Aged Care has been implemented to improve the safety, health, wellbeing and lifestyle for people receiving aged care, and to bolster trust in services to help build confidence in the safety and quality of care for older Australians.

available at this web address for further reading www.legislation.gov.au/Details/ C2022A00034.

PROVIDING LOCAL PATIENTS EVERYTHING THEY NEED... for post-operative cochlear implant care is experienced audiologist, Elizabeth Webster (pictured) at GV Hearing Clinic in Edward Street, Shepparton. Assisting cochlear implant recipient, Joe Barker (pictured), Elizabeth’s training saves local patients from having to travel to Melbourne for cochlear mapping and consultations.

Mapping a game changer at GV Hearing Clinic

THERE are perhaps no words to adequately describe the significant loss of hearing.

With a cochlear implant, however, patients can regain a sense of hearing, enabling them to continue living a rich and full life.

Offering an option when hearing aids can no longer provide any benefit, cochlear implant recipients require numerous postoperative appointments to assist in mapping (programming) their device, while they learn to process electrical stimulation as sound and speech.

When Joe Barker lost complete hearing in his right ear due to Ménière’s disease, he was forced to travel over the next 12 months to the Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital in Melbourne for post-operative care; a repeated journey that Joe found not only arduous but time consuming and expensive.

Offering convenience and local expertise, Goulburn Valley Hearing Clinic in Edward Street now offer all post-operative cochlear

care, mapping and consultations for regional patients, alleviating the need to travel and saving costs.

Completing her cochlear implant training last year, experienced audiologist Elizabeth Webster said, “The GV Hearing Clinic now offer cochlear assessments, consultations and everything patients require post-surgery, saving patients from having to commit to travelling a dozen times to Melbourne over the course of 12 to 18 months.”

While his hearing will never be what it was, Joe said that having an implant has enabled him to stay social, where many people who suffer severe hearing loss withdraw.

“It’s lovely to see the positive impact of an implant and how someone who is isolated by their hearing can start communicating again with family and friends, a cochlear implant is really a game changer, Elizabeth said.

Photo: Stephanie Holliday

Photo: Natasha Fujimoto

HCP Pricing Update great, but attention is needed

To limit the high charges set by some Home Care Package (HCP) providers, the Commonwealth will restrict their fees from January 1.

But local public health HCP provider, Community Interlink, cautions that consumers will still need to continue to examine provider fees carefully.

Foodworks Tatura first in service

THURSDAY is pensioner day at Foodworks Tatura, but every day you will find exceptional customer service and unbeatable prices on the freshest produce and meat.

Home Care Package Provider Fees

Care management is a mandatory service, and your provider must:

• Regularly assess your needs, goals and preferences;

home delivery service. Orders can be placed by visiting tatura.myfoodworks.com.au or phoning the store on 5824 1122.

• Review your home care agreement and care plan with you;

“The Commonwealth Pricing Update is fantastic, because it will make some fees simpler and easier to compare against other providers,” Community Interlink Director Tricia Van De Paverd said.

Having been awarded Foodworks store of the year for Victoria, South Australia and Tasmania in 2022, their friendly team continue to provide the upmost care for their customers and the community.

HAPPY TO HELP... Foodworks Tatura is a friendly local store with a fine reputation for customer service, quality products, pricing, cleanliness and community spirit that has earned it awards as well as a loyal customer base. Pictured is Foodworks Tatura assistant manager, Steven Breen. Photo: Deanne Jeffers

If you require assistance with your shopping, whether that be finding the right product, reaching items on the shelf, or help taking your groceries to your car, a member of their welcoming team is happy to help.

They also make food shopping a breeze through their

• Ensure your care and services align with other supports;

• Partner with you and your family or carers about your care;

Foodworks Tatura, open seven days a week, has an on-site butcher, fresh fish subject to availability and freshly squeezed orange juice, in addition to hand-selected fruit and veg, a comprehensive delicatessen dairy, freezer and liquor department.

• Ensure your care and services are culturally safe; and

Foodworks Tatura is located at 112 Hogan Street, Tatura and can be reached on 5824 1122. The store is open daily from 7am until 8pm, with ample street and off-street parking.

• Identify and address risks to your safety, health and wellbeing.

Package management is a service that supports delivery of a HCP, and can cover administrative activities that your provider must do, such as:

• Establishing and managing home care budgets;

Delivering in home support to seniors is rich and rewarding

fully understand the charges,” Ms Van De Paverd said.

MANAGING three of nine Community Interlink offices across Northern Victoria and Southern NSW, Jan McRae could not wish for a more fulfilling and consequential career.

“However, consumers should still take care to ensure that they are satisfied with the quality and value of what is being purchased on their behalf.”

Having worked in various capacities within the registered home care package provider for 23 years, Jan said the non-profit is committed to supporting individuals to live their best life at home with as much dignity in independence as possible.

Under the Pricing Update, providers may increase their prices for goods and services, but any changes must be “reasonable”.

Exit fees and separate charges for brokerage or subcontracting of third-party goods or services can no longer be charged by providers.

“It’s really about listening to people and finding out what they need to live a quality life and we work as team to solve any impediments or problems that prevent our clients from doing so,” Jan said.

MAKING A SIGNIFICANT DIFFERENCE... Pictured from left is Community Interlink service support coordinator Trudy Woodhead, program manager Jan McRae and service support coordinator Ashlee Meers. Photo: Supplied

Community Interlink has been to create real and positive change in people’s lives, you get to meet some real characters and hear their life stories.

“Providers will need to disclose this when you sign your service agreement with them. And this is when you should make sure you

Beginning her career working in disability, but always drawn to aged-care support, Jan has had ample opportunity to develop her career and broaden her skill set while working at Community Interlink, but it has been the impact on clients’ lives that she has most valued, as she said, “The greatest opportunity I’ve had at

The Pricing Update will limit the mandatory Care Management service charge to 20 per cent of a person’s package. Package Management fees are capped at 15 per cent.

“Along the way, you develop admiration for both your clients and their carers who you see time and again do the most incredible and selfless things for their loved ones.”

Extending her admiration to her colleagues Jan added, “I’ve been fortunate in my time to work with colleagues who are not only kind, capable and good humoured but are solely dedicated towards helping each client reach their individual goals.

“They are the kind of people you really want to work with, not

“Community Interlink only charge Care Management and Package Management fees, as outlined in the Department of Health and Aged Care HCP Pricing Update. We do not have, and never have had, any hidden fees or charges,” Ms Van De Paverd said. “If a person has concerns over their HCP provider’s fees, then they can contact their provider or My Aged Care.”

• Coordinating and scheduling services and workers;

• Preparing invoices and monthly statements; and

• Complying with regulatory and assurance activities.

If your provider increases their prices, as always:

• Your provider must seek your consent before raising them.

• You have the right to understand all charges, price increases and what they mean.

• Your provider must explain their price increase, including:

• What prices are changing;

• Why they need to change their prices;

• What those prices include; and

• When the new prices will start.

everyone can do this job, but the staff at Community Interlink are people who like to listen and help.”

Trusted NDIS services and Home Care Packages via our region’s health services.

our members

Community Interlink Care Manager Janelle Stevenson, Case Manager Jane Melrose and Director Tricia Van De Paverd are pictured outside the Community Interlink Benalla Health office.

A life-changing solution

AS we age, we start to notice our bodies just don’t work as well as they use to, despite our best efforts to keep fit and healthy. Our bladders for example can cause us issues which range from inconvenient through to debilitating in some cases.

Thankfully, there are solutions available for people to regain a sense of independence and dignity using innovative technology.

The BTL Emsella is a chair clients sit on, fully clothed, to painlessly contract the pelvic floor muscles, helping rebuild muscle strength. This technology helps people with a weak pelvic floor to regain control to decrease or stop urinary leakage and incontinence.

Following a career in nursing spanning 15 years, Shepparton local Monique Camm has combined her passion for health, as well as physical and emotional wellbeing, by founding GV Body Rejuvenation in 2021. At the clinic, this life-changing technology is part of the range of services on offer. Monique also kindly offers a senior’s discount for certain treatments.

GV Body Rejuvenation is conveniently located in Shepparton’s CBD at 102 Nixon Street. For further information on the treatments Monique offers and to book an obligation-free consultation, visit gvbodyrejuvenation.com or call 0407 568 591.

NON-INVASIVE SOLUTIONS... Monique Camm has combined her passion for health, as well as physical and emotional wellbeing, by founding GV Body Rejuvenation in 2021. Pictured is a client demonstrating the BTL Emsella, a chair clients sit on, fully clothed, to painlessly contract the pelvic floor muscles, helping rebuild muscle strength. Photo: Pruepeterscommercial

By Stephanie Holliday

FINANCIAL abuse is a form of family violence. It can include withholding money, controlling all the household spending, refusing to include you in financial decisions or manipulating another person into believing their funds are used in particular way. Financial abuse can happen to anyone, with many older Australians sadly more susceptible.

Commonly, it happens when someone takes or misuses your money, assets or property without you agreeing.

Financial abuse can often make an older person feel like they no longer have control over their finances or assets and increase anxiety and stress. It can encompass minor incidents (such as borrowing small amounts of money and not repaying the loan) through to extreme incidents

(misusing the Financial Enduring Power of Attorney).

Regardless, the impact can be significant for an older person and can impact on their lifestyle, leisure and the necessities of life, such as food and housing.

Frequently an older person might rely on family and relatives to assist them with their finances or assets. In these circumstances, an older person can be more vulnerable to abuse if they’re not included in the decisions about their finances.

If you, or someone you know is experiencing elder abuse, help is available by calling 1800 353 374, a free call phone number that automatically redirects callers seeking information and advice on elder abuse with the phone service in their state or territory.

Move your way with flexible over 60s memberships

GETTING back into exercise can feel daunting. Give yourself the best chance of achieving your goals by choosing a fitness centre that understands your needs.

Generation Active classes at Aquamoves are designed for those aged 60+ or people who might have mobility or confidence concerns stopping them from being fit and active.

For Wally Hudson, who is 72 years old, Aquamoves group fitness classes have given him a new lease on life. Wally has visited the facility for the past six years and in that time, he has lost almost 30 kilograms.

“I would say that I am the fittest I have been since I was 35,” he said. “I’m almost back to the same weight I was when I was

playing footy.”

Over 60s fitness instructor Lyn Davidson took Wally “under her wing” when he started group fitness with his late wife Marg and good friend Ray. After losing his wife to cancer and seeing his friend undergo a triple bypass, Wally considered his own health and ways to improve his quality of life.

Wally said, “All the staff are terrific, and they make you feel welcome, which is half the battle. The people here are fairly health conscious and the clientele are here for the same reasons you are – to improve their body and their life.”

Aquamoves has affordable memberships for over 60s and classes that are fun, supportive, and functional. Instructors can

work with you to modify exercises to your needs and help you to achieve your goals and classes are followed by a social cup of

Textile artist to really grab your eye

By Natasha Fujimoto

SELF-TAUGHT, eclectic, innovative and a touch flamboyant are the words textile artist, Judith Roberts uses to describe both herself and her extraordinary work.

Declaring that she never had an artistic bone in her body until her inception as a volunteer at SAM coincided with having to sew her son a ‘daggy’ pair of shorts, Judith has since gone on to stitch, knit, crochet, dye and felt her way into innumerable exhibitions.

Inspired by landscapes, witty phrases and the creativity of others, Judith uses an array of sustainable materials to create dynamic textures, scenes and images that are both beautiful and distinctly original.

In conjunction with local artist, Kerry Handwork, Judith exhibited Reading Between the Lines at the Foundry Art Space in Echuca last year. With the intention of drawing viewers' attention to examine her pieces

more closely, Judith purposefully left ‘holes’ with stitched words encased within three of her artworks, Reading Between the Lines, Pebbles and Slate and Lichen, Moss…

When asked her reasoning for this intriguing form of messaging, embedded within the already alluring work, Judith said, “Each of the three pieces is composed of complex cords, and there’s a lot of different processes going into making each of them.

“I deliberately left holes as I was stitching them together because I want people to look more closely at the work and say, ‘Oh look, she’s used a piece of throw away fabric and now it’s this, or now it’s that.’

“I want people to wonder, how did she do it?” Judith said. Judith’s textile art is available for purchase, and enquiries can be made at judith3631@gmail.com or by phoning 0429 937 023.

JUST DO IT... Wally Hudson, aged 72 and pictured here in yellow, has been a regular group fitness class participant at Aquamoves for the past six years and in that time, he has lost almost 30 kilograms, made and fostered friendships in the community and improved his overall wellbeing and life. His advice to people considering going to gym or group fitness is, “Just do it! If I can do it, anyone can. The hardest step is coming through those front doors but you won’t regret making a change.” Photo: Deanne Jeffers

tea or coffee with other likeminded people. To learn more, visit aquamoves.com.au or call 5832 9400.

and you will see in textile artist, Judith Roberts’ (pictured) work extraordinary detail and skill. Pictured with Judith are her pieces (hanging from top down) Lichen, Moss..., Pebbles and Slate and Reading Between the Lines. To the left of Judith is her exquisitely crafted, Tiny Vessels made entirely from thread. Photo: Natasha Fujimoto

Penalised for wanting to work

By Stephanie Holliday

LOOKING back on my childhood as an almost 35-year-old, I have fond memories of being picked up from school by my grandfather to spend an afternoon watching far too much television (namely The Bold and the Beautiful) and cooking dinner with my grandmother until my mum arrived after work to collect us.

My grandparents were retired, which allowed for such an arrangement. And while everyone’s retirement looks different, not necessarily filled with afternoons entertaining grandchildren, it was a common practise which is increasingly becoming a rarity.

In 1995, the average age of retirement was 60.2 years. In 2022, it was 66.5. From July 2023, those born after January 1 1957, will be 67 years old to be considered officially at retirement age. It’s not only that people are delaying retirement due to cost-of-living pressures, but there are also surprising figures around people over 55 re-entering the workforce too, on their own accord.

40 percent of the half a million people

Caring for our seniors

Waranga Health is a 36 bed aged-care facility. It consists of a four bed, acute care unit, a district nursing service and outpatient ambulatory consulting services. There is also a dedicated palliative care suite and respite bed.

Resident rooms each contain a private ensuite, built-in wardrobe, an electric bed to ensure comfort and safety, an armchair and a bedside table.

If you or a family member are considering going into care, please call for a detailed information pack or we are available to answer any questions you may have.

Waranga Health Main

14 High St, Rushworth

Reception: (03) 5851 8000

who entered the labour force over the three years to October were over the age of 55. That means that nationally, almost one in five of all workers, or 19.6 percent, are now aged over 55, up from just 11.4 percent two decades ago.

Currently, a pensioner can only earn up to $240 per week before they lose the pension by 50 cents in the dollar, equivalent to approximately only one full working day. It leaves people in the retirement age bracket with a conundrum. The retirement age is increasing, yet they are needing to work past it due to a multitude of reasons (namely inflation). Then they are penalised for wanting to work to supplement their pension.

There is a petition to call on the Federal Government to exempt employment income from the Age Pension income test, so pensioners with limited wealth can work without losing their pension and help meet critical labour force shortages. To sign the petition, please visit nationalseniors.com.au/ advocacy/fairer-retirement-income-system/ let-pensioners-work.

Dance and laughter are the best medicine

By Natasha Fujimoto

WITH a slow, quick and sidestep the Seniors Citizens Centre comes alive with laughter and movement as the Shepparton Social Sequence Dancing (SSSD) group takes to the floor every Wednesday afternoon and evening.

Bringing happy faces and dancing shoes, the SSSD group enjoy dances that include steps from traditional ballroom dancing, including Quickstep, Tango, Foxtrot and Waltz in a predetermined sequence.

Initiating the group in July 2022 for people who simply want to have fun and enjoy themselves, Gail Cook has brought together a jovial group of dancers who have become more like a family over time.

Effusive about the significant impact the sessions have had on their lives, the group is unanimous about the positive health and social wellbeing benefits the dancing has had on their lives.

MHA Care – Your local Home Care Package Provider

MHA Care is a Not for Profit organisation and your local provider of Home Care Packages.

We have been supporting individuals with their Home Care Packages since 2016 and now employ 6 Care Managers and support 230 individuals across the Moira Shire and surrounds to access services and supports through their Home Care Package.

How does it work?

At MHA Care we work with you to understand your needs and identify your goals, including the most appropriate way to support you to live a more active and independent life. Your Home Care Package funds can be used on a range of services, support and equipment that relate to your health care needs. Is there a cost?

MHA care does not charge start up or exit fees. Instead, a flat fee is charged to cover our costs. By keeping our fees as low as possible, we ensure you are able to maximise the funding available to purchase the services you need or want.

What do you need to do?

The first step to access government-funded aged care services is to check your eligibility for a face-to-face assessment. You can call the friendly and knowledgeable My Aged Care contact centre staff to talk about your needs on 1800 200 422. Or you can apply online at www.myagedcare.gov.au/assessment/apply-online. Further information can be found at www.myagedcare.gov.au/assessment. You can also call MHA Care directly on (03) 5742 1111 and ask for assistance from one of our Home Care Package Coordinators.

“Dancing has 77 percent more benefit than any other physical activity and is also excellent for the memory,” Gail said before adding, “The atmosphere here when people are dancing is full of laughter and learning and although it may take new dancers up to six months to learn the steps, they are moving and keeping their health in check, while stimulating their mind.”

Indominable in her passion, Gail said it is the social dances held every second Saturday that are the real highlight.

“Dance clubs from all over north-eastern Victoria come together to catch-up and dance the night-away, with members also have the chance to win donated raffle prizes from Dan Murphy and McIntyres Family Butchers (amongst others) as well.”

If you would like to dance and laugh your way to friendship and good health, no matter if you are a beginner or more advance call Gail on 0412 858 019.

MHA Care ‘The Right Care for You’

MHA Care ‘The Right Care for You’

What can you use your Package for?

MHA Care – Your local Home Care Package Provider

MHA Care – Your local Home Care Package Provider

Depending on the level of your Home Care Package you can use your Package to get assistance with services such as:

Services to keep you well and independent:

and garden safe)

✓ Personal care (Showering, Grooming)

‘Stay Living at home independently , for longer’

✓ Nursing and Allied Health (Assistance with medicines, physiotherapy, podiatry)

✓ Home modifications (minor modifications to your home to improve safety and access (ramps and rails)

‘Stay Living at home independently , for longer’

✓ Meals preparation and diet (help with feeding and meal preparation)

✓ Assistive equipment and technology (walking frame, shower chair)

MHA Care is a Not for Pro t organisation and your local provider of Home Care Packages. We have been supporting individuals with their Home Care Packages since 2016 and now employ 6 Care Managers and support 195 individuals across the Moira Shire and surrounds to access services and supports through their Home Care Package.

Services that keep you safe:

How does it work?

✓ Household jobs (assistance with cleaning, Laundry and other basic Domestic chores)

How does it work?

Services that allow you to interact with your community:

✓ Transport (Community transport, transport to your GP)

MHA Care is a Not for Pro t organisation and your local provider of Home Care Packages. We have been supporting individuals with their Home Care Packages since 2016 and now employ 6 Care Managers and support 195 individuals across the Moira Shire and surrounds to access services and supports through their Home Care Package.

✓ Home maintenance (Help with keeping your home

✓ Social support (Social activities in a communitybased group setting or accompanied activities)

At MHA Care we work with you to understand your needs and identify your goals, including the most appropriate way to support you to live a more active and independent life. Your Home Care Package funds can be used on a range of services, support and equipment that relate to your health care needs.

Is there a cost?

If you would like further information on Home Care Packages please visit My Age Care at www.myagedcare.gov.au/help-at-home or call MHA Care on (03) 5742 1111 or call into our office at 22 Orr Street, Yarrawonga to speak with one of our Care Managers.

At MHA Care we work with you to understand your needs and identify your goals, including the most appropriate way to support you to live a more active and independent life. Your Home Care Package funds can be used on a range of services, support and equipment that relate to your health care needs.

Is there a cost?

MHA care does not charge start up or exit fees. Instead, a at fee is charged to cover our costs. By keeping our fees as low as possible, we ensure you are able to maximise the funding available to purchase the services you need or want.

What do you need to do?

MHA care does not charge start up or exit fees. Instead, a at fee is charged to cover our costs. By keeping our fees as low as possible, we ensure you are able to maximise the funding available to purchase the services you need or want.

What do you need to do?

The rst step to access government-funded aged care services is to check your eligibility for a face-to-face assessment. You can call the friendly and knowledgeable My Aged Care contact centre sta to talk about your needs on 1800 200 422. Or you can apply online at https://www.myagedcare.gov.au/ assessment/apply-online .

DANCING, LAUGHING AND SOCIALISING THEIR WAY TO GOOD HEALTH... Here are the Social Sequence Dancing group who meet each Wednesday at the Senior Citizen’s Centre in Shepparton. Picture from left is Robin, Ian, Hazel Ron, Barb, Jan, Gail, Anne and Simon, who are dancing their way towards greater happiness and wellbeing. Photo: Natasha Fujimoto

‘Stay Living at home independently, for longer’

Griffith Easter Party is a multi-day celebration of fun festivities for the whole family over the Easter weekend, and is well worth making a trip to Griffith.

Celebrating the end of vintage, Griffith Easter Party brings you a host of entertainment, activities, demonstrations, wine and food. There is something for everyone! Follow the QR code for the full program.

1800 681 141 GriffithEasterParty.com.au

Be immersed in sound healing sessions

THE POWER OF SOUND… A sound healing emersion,

SOUND healing therapy is one of the top wellness trends right now, and for a good reason. It has been practised for thousands of years to realign the body’s vibration, to improve mental health, clarity, and emotional wellbeing.

After being postponed in October, Divine Light Orchestra will present its ‘Elemental Sound Healing Journey,’ to take place at Janus Health Hub in Corio Street in March.

“We aim to set the soul free on a musical journey that will inspire and help the body come alive, with vibrations exciting the senses to facilitate self-healing,” said event organiser Anthony Kilner.

“We want to help people relax and to energise their spirit by creating a place and space where they can relax for a couple hours

and come out feeling focussed and calm.”

Understanding the impact of recent events such as the flood on residents, Divine Light Orchestra have dropped ticket prices by $25, with the cost now only $50pp with a $3.50 booking fee.

Two sessions will run on Saturday, March 11 at 1.30-4pm and 7-9.30pm. Tickets are limited to 40 people, so book now by visiting the following websites: Matinee bookings: www.stickytickets. com.au/PIZYB

Evening bookings: www.stickytickets. com.au/ETCR1

Reception/ distribution

Permanent Part Time 3 days a week

Various Teaching Positions

St Mary ’s College is returning to Year 11 in 2024 & Year 12 in 2025.

applications for the listed positions.

St Mary ’s College provides a holistic education which brings together faith, community, friends and learning

The teaching positions begin 2023. Teachers with other methods, graduates and fourth year students are welcome to apply.

Please refer to https://www.smseymour.catholic.edu.au/welcome/employment-opportunities/ for the role description and application requirements.

College promotes the safety, wellbeing and inclusion of all children.

Career Opportunitie s

r d elivering o n C ouncil’s a sset m anagement obje ctives a n d e mbeddin g o ptima l a ss et management p ract ice s a cros s th e o rg anis atio n. This position will play a critical role in mplementing th e act ion s i de ntifi e d i n C ouncil’s A ss et Man agement Strateg y.

We are l ookin g fo r s omeon e w h o c a n e ngag e ac ro s s C ounci l d epar tm ents a n d lea d the establishment of stron g a sset m anagement processe s w ithi n th e o rg anis ation . Yo u w ill need a strate gic, p ersonable, d ow n to e ar th a pproach Thi s i s a n i nc re dibl e o ppor tu nit y to work w ith a respecte d l oca l o rg anis atio n n a p ivot a l role.

We o e r an inclusi ve , friendly fl exible suppor tive an d s afe work e nv ironme nt

Fo r fu rther enquiries: C live B ro oker, A ss et Planning Coo rd in ator o n 0 3 572 2 814 6. The successful applicant will be re quired to prov id e a co py of thei r Covid-19 Va ccin at io n

Certifi cate prio r to commenceme nt

Rural City of Wangaratta is a child safe and equal opportunity employer. Employment applications from AboriginalandTorresStraitIslanderpeoplesandpeople from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds are encouraged. In addition, applications for positions that work with children must provide referees who can comment on their experience working with children. These roles also require a valid Working with Children Check and all roles require a National Criminal History Check

How to place Classifieds line ad

We have an exciting opening in our Administration team for an all-rounder who loves a challenge and variety in their role!

The position involves:

Organising and co-ordinating our distribution including the weekly instructions for walkers, agents, our driver and liaising with our print centre. A good understanding of Excel is important. Training will be provided.

The following tasks also relate to this position:

• Reception duties

• Process advertising bookings

• General Administration duties

• Provide support to administration team

In this role you must:

• Have a professional manner

• Be well presented and articulate

• Have a ‘Can Do’ positive attitude

• Have excellent communication and customer service skills

• Have demonstrated computer skills including proficient use of MS Office programs

• Show initiative and be motivated

• Have the ability to work without supervision

A Position Description is available upon request email admin@sheppartonadviser.com.au

If this sounds like the position for you, please don’t delay, get in touch today because we are interviewing now!

Please send your letter of application including your CV and other relevant information to admin@sheppartonadviser.com.au

** Only permanent Australian Citizen/Residents may apply

The Shepparton Adviser is the Goulburn Valley region’s largest circulating community newspaper www.sheppadviser.com.au 38-40 Welsford Street, Shepparton Ph 5832 8900

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FARM TREES $2 each

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FLUFFY RUFFLES fishbone fern in black pot $14 Ph 0432 797 138

HANGING BASKET Spider Plant $14

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MYNA BIRD TRAPS $50 Mooroopna Men's Shed Ph Michael 0418 993 692

SUCCULENTS x 3 pots, $4 each Ph 0432 797 138

WOODEN BOWL unique, cut from old log and polished (possibly Ironbark timber) $50

Ph 0438 212 098

WORM JUICE excellent for flower beds and vegetable gardens, $4 for two litres Ph 0417 214 983

FOR SALE

ALLTYPE GARAGE DOORS Supply, install & service. Garage doors, Automatic doors & Gate openers Call Phil on 0418 577 280

GARAGE SALE

31 DUNKIRK AVE Sat 25th Feb, 9-2pm, books, household items, furniture, misc, etc ALL CHEAP!

Adviser SPORT

Woodchopping facing the axe

By Stephanie Holliday

A SPORT almost as old as time, and the backbone of many agricultural shows, including the Royal Melbourne Show, is facing the chop.

The Victorian Axemen’s Council has no timber for upcoming woodchopping events, meaning Victorians will be potentially unable to compete at agricultural shows around the state.

A court order limiting harvesting in areas managed by VicForests means the council won’t have enough logs for more than 100 woodchopping events staged/held around Victoria.

Shadow Minister for Agriculture, Emma Kealy, said a VicForests court appeal set for late March will be too late for some events.

“Already we have seen woodchopping cut from the 2023 Berwick Show, and it’s looking more likely that woodchopping won’t be a part of this year’s Royal Melbourne Show,” Ms Kealy said.

“This decision to make VicForests jump through yet another hoop, delaying timber

harvesting further, is to the detriment of regional Victorians. This is a decision that affects the lives of regional Victorians all so Labor can garner favour with the inner-city voters.”

Woodchopping events draw crowds from across the nation, predominantly to rural and regional areas.

“Woodchopping is a major drawcard of agricultural shows around the state and a sport that attracts international attention.

The Nationals have raised this issue in Parliament, and we want to see a solution to what has become a bizarre situation,” Ms Kealy said.

The Shepparton Agricultural Show haven't held a woodchop competition for a number of years now, due to limited supply and an increase in the price of logs specific to competition requirements, which exceeds the Show's budget. With even less availability due to the new court order, it will be almost impossible for other Shows to be able to hold a viable and competitive woodchop competition.

Local cricket’s big opportunity

MEMBER for Shepparton Kim O’Keeffe is urging the district’s cricket clubs to put in for funding up to $30,000 to deliver infrastructure projects at their grounds. Ms O’Keeffe says the funding is open to all local clubs through the Australian Cricket Infrastructure Fund. The funding can go towards work on pitches, practice facility refurbishment, minor change facility/pavilion refurbishment and supporting infrastructure (e.g. shade/ shelter).

“There is a major and minor category, depending on the size of your most urgent requirements,” Ms O’Keeffe said.

“The funding will be drawn from a $750,000 pool through the Cricket Australia network, and I hope every Shepparton club puts its hand up because

if they don’t get in and get a slice of the cash it will go to some other club from another region,” she added.

“The funding announcement delivers the development of community cricket facilities that contribute to the delivery of Australian Cricket’s strategic priorities (e.g. supporting the attraction and retention of 5-12 year old participants) – and it’s our children we want to have quality facilities for, to encourage them to get involved in sport with friends and families.

“Entries close on March 26 so there isn’t much time for an application to be submitted so let’s get things moving.”

For more information go to www. cricketvictoria.com.au/clubs-support/ grants/.

Young and old cycling for gold

By Deanne Jeffers

THE Shepparton Cycling Club is having a fantastic start to the year, with several of its members finding success at various state and national championships.

Jack Edwards won two gold medals over the weekend competing at the Juniors State Championships at DECA in Melbourne.

“Jack is one of our little champions. Every competition he goes to he always wins one or two medals,” commented club president, Wendy Abbott.

Jack won first place in the U17 500m Time Trials and the U17 Sprint Match.

Also representing the Shepparton Cycling Club, Myles Higgins who competes in the 75+ age group, won two gold medals at the AusCycling Mountain Bike Nationals held in Thredbo earlier in February.

The Shepparton Cycling Club train at the Shepparton Velodrome on Tuesday nights. The club is open to anybody interested in cycling competitively or leisurely. New riders and all skill levels are always welcome.

To enquire visit their Facebook page or website www.sheppartoncyclingclub.com

A GOOD WICKET... The Australian Cricket Infrastructure Fund is open to local clubs to use the funds to improve their club facilities. Photo: Supplied

GETTING THE CHOP...The Victorian Axemen’s Council has no timber for upcoming woodchopping events, meaning Victorians will be potentially unable to compete at agricultural shows around the state. Shepparton Show has not been able to hold woodchopping events for a number of years, but pictured is one from an unknown date in the 1970s. Photo: Shepparton Agricultural Society

GOING FOR GOLD... Myles Higgins (pictured) and Jack Edwards from Shepparton Cycling Club have won two gold medals this month. Myles in the 75+ age group and Jack in the U17s. Photo: Supplied