The Adviser 1678

towards their dreams

the distance, the mud and grit from the Victorian Alps washed away for another year, representatives of the Skeeta Memorial Ride recently made a presentation of $7100 to the team at GV Hospice.

The riders of the Goulburn Valley Motorcycle Club have made the trek to Wonnangatta Station on postie bikes for over 30 years, with this year being the 10th time

Leader of the group Robert “King” Palma said postie bikes and parts are always in demand in the region from members of the group.

“The contribution of the Skeeta Memorial Ride members is greatly appreciated, and their exploits are legendary. We really do value their support that goes directly into providing services in our community.”

Bloody good time to donate

By Aaron Cordy LIFEBLOOD’S Shepparton

Donor Centre has welcomed 59 new blood and plasma donors in the last 12 months since the mad cow ban was lifted. Lifeblood regularly reviews eligibility rules to ensure as many people as possible can give blood, without compromising safety.

This allowed local Melanie Stewart to embrace her new eligibility by donating blood/plasma 11 times since the lift.

“I do it because mum had cancer. She had

to have blood twice, so I do it for that... And if you’re able to do it (donate), I don’t see why not,” said Ms Stewart.

Lifeblood spokesperson Shae Burns has thanked Mel and everyone who had been impacted by this rule for their donations, which now accounts for nearly one in ten donations in Australia.

“All up more than 123,000 donations have been made over the past 12 months by people who lived in the United Kingdom between 1980 and 1996, which is a fantastic

LIFEBLOOD BAN LIFTED... local Melanie Stewart embracing her new eligibility by donating blood/plasma 11 times since the mad cow ban was lifted. Photo: Emma Harrop

result,” said Ms Burns.

“However, the reality is that with demand at its highest in a decade, we still need more donors to boost supplies and there are still more than 800,000 people who may have become eligible because of this rule change.”

Given rules do change, Shae Burns added, “It’s likely many people don’t realise they are now eligible to donate blood and plasma.”

To check your eligibility and book a donation, call 13 14 95, visit lifeblood.com. au or download the Donate Blood app.

Come join the LGBTIQA+ committee

NOMINATIONS for the Greater Shepparton City Council’s LGBTIQA+ Advisory Committee will be open until 5pm on Friday, September 8. The committee plays an integral role in promoting and advocating for inclusive practices for the Greater Shepparton’s LGBTIQA+ community.

Greater Shepparton City Council Mayor, Councillor Shane Sali, urged community members to nominate themselves.

"The committee's input provides Council with additional insights into the steps we can take to make Greater Shepparton more inclusive. I encourage residents who have an interest in social inclusion and equality to consider being part of the committee,” he said.

Nominations are welcome from:

• Individuals identifying as LGBTIQA+ with strong community links and the specific skills necessary to support the committee's role

• Local LGBTIQA+ associations, groups, and community committees

• Local organisations that work directly with the LGBTIQA+ community

• Members of the local business community

• Community members who identify as an LGBTIQA+ ally Councillor and LGBTIQA+ Advisory

Committee representative, Sam Spinks, encouraged interested community members to take this opportunity to actively contribute towards more positive changes in the region.

"The LGBTIQA+ Advisory Committee is an incredible platform for community members to voice their unique perspectives,

advocate for inclusion and shape the future of our vibrant city,” Ms Spinks said. Nominations will be accepted until 5pm, Friday September 9, 2023. Forms are available at www.greatershepparton.com.au or call (03) 58329700.

PLATFORM FOR INCLUSION... members of the LGBTIQA+ Advisory Committee will have the opportunity to share insights on the community and plan more awareness activities like IDAHOBIT day, which was held at the Queens Gardens last year. Photo: supplied.

Nine new nominations for the 2023 SPC Business Excellence Awards

THE 2023 SPC Business Excellence Awards are your chance to nominate an outstanding local business or individual for their exemplary service across 11 different categories. Last week saw nine new nominations across various categories.

The premier business awards aim to highlight individuals, businesses,

and organisations who have shown exceptional service in the Greater Shepparton business community. Visit sheppartonchamber.com.au/ nominate/ to recommend the local business, individual, or organisation for providing excellent service. For further information call GSBN on 0407 503 886, or visit gsbn.net.au.

1870s charm turns to triumph at esteemed awards night

TWO prestigious accolades at the 2023 Victorian Accommodation Awards for Excellence were awarded to The Trawool Estate, held at Crown Palladium recently.

Recognised as finalists in eight categories, the estate secured victories for Best Regional Hotel Accommodation and Best Regional Hotel Bar, making it a night of triumph.

The historic Granite Bar, retaining its 1870s charm, was crowned Hotel Bar of the Year, while the estate itself earned the title of Regional Accommodation of the Year.

Nestled in Taungurung country, just over an hour from Shepparton, Trawool Estate has consistently excelled in guest experiences, previously winning Best Regional Hotel Restaurant in 2022. These awards affirm the team's dedication to creating an atmosphere of excellence, luxury, and escape.

Trawool Estate, owned by Wes and Terry Old, boasts a rich history dating back to the 1870s, offering 27 hotel rooms, exceptional dining spaces, conference facilities, and picturesque grounds along the Great Victorian Rail Trail.

The 2023 Victorian Accommodation Awards for Excellence, organised by the Australian Hotels Association (AHA) Victoria, recognise exceptional establishments that go above and beyond to create memorable guest experiences in the Victorian hospitality industry.

Escape to peace & tranquility

BIG WINNERS... The head of departments at Trawool Estate celebrating their win of two prestigious accolades at the 2023 Victorian Accommodation Awards for Excellence, held at Crown Palladium on Thursday, August

New office for Intereach

LOCAL NDIS Partner in the Community, Intereach, is relocating its Shepparton office. The new office is located at 210 Corio Street, providing greater access for those using public transport links and close to essential amenities. It will open on Monday 11 September.

Intereach Co-CEO Yvette Buhagiar said the relocation would open greater opportunities for the community to visit the office and get the information they need on NDIS, aged care and support around other services.

“This relocation will help our commitment to provide the best possible services to the people of Greater Shepparton. Our new office location will not only make our services more accessible but

also strengthen our presence within the community,” Mrs Buhagiar said.

Intereach staff will work remotely from Friday 1 September to Monday September 11 while the relocation takes place.

“While our office may be closed, we are here to help and support people during this time, but we need to do so via phone and video. People can reach out to us for appointments by calling 1300 488 266. “We thank our clients and participants for their understanding during this time.”

Intereach's mission is to support individuals, families, and communities in regional Australia.

For more information about Intereach services, please visit www.intereach.com.au or call 1300 488 226.

17.

Photo: Supplied

Community Gallery open at SAM

TWO opportunities for local creatives to present work in the Shepparton Art Museum’s (SAM) Hugh D.T Williamson Community Gallery are now open for applications.

SAM Selects (formerly SAM EOI) accepts exhibition proposals from local artists, curators, creative practitioners, and community groups to exhibit in the Community Gallery at SAM. Proposals can include a body of existing work that is ready to hang by a single artist or could be a collaborative group show.

Previous SAM Selects/SAM EOI exhibitions include Hans Wolter von Gruenewaldt: Artworks from Prisoner of War Camp 13 Murchison, 2022 by Murchison & District

Historical Society and Murchison RSL, and the current exhibition After the Rain from Echuca-based artist group, Tuesday Junction.

SAM Spotlight is a paid solo exhibition opportunity open to emerging artists living and working in the Goulburn Valley. The artist selected for SAM Spotlight will work with the SAM Curator to plan, develop and design their solo exhibition. In November 2022, Kialla-based artist Aleisa Miksad presented Between Scylla and Charybdis | Amphora for her SAM Spotlight exhibition, which featured a collection of her intricate, hand-coiled ceramics.

“For emerging and established creatives, the opportunities offer a rare chance to exhibit

within an art museum context, raising the profile of their work and offering unique professional development opportunities, ” said SAM Curator – Community, Caroline Esbenshade.

Applications to SAM Selects and SAM Spotlight must be submitted by 11.59PM on 2

Verney Road School site’s future

LAST week in Parliament, Nationals’ Member for Shepparton District, Kim O’Keeffe, asked the Minister for Education, Natalie Hutchins, what are the future plans for the current Verney Road School site when the school relocates and expands to the former Wanganui Secondary School site.

Ms O’Keeffe has also written to the Minister for Education in recent months about the future of Shepparton and Mooroopna’s three vacant redundant secondary school sites, Mooroopna Secondary College, McGuire College and an update on the timeframe and budget allocation of the relocation of Verney Road School to the former site of Wanganui Secondary College.

“I still have concerns about the full financial commitment to the full development and relocation of all students and

teachers to the former site of Wanganui College for Verney Road School.

“The current Verney Road School site will leave another redundant site in a residential area. We have a number of former secondary school sites, that are sitting locked up and redundant since the amalgamation of all four of our secondary state schools, which are all located in residential areas.”

Ms O’Keeffe said that she has had continual interactions and conservations from all parts of the community regarding these current abandoned sites, with the possibility of the Verney Road School site joining that list.

“The community wants answers and a plan for the future for all of the sites and I call on the Minister to consult with our community and provide the community with answers.”

October 2023 via the SAM website.

To learn more about opportunities to exhibit at SAM and submit your application, visit our website: https:// sheppartonartmuseum.com.au/ support-get-involved/exhibit-at-sam/

KIM QUESTIONS THE FUTURE OF SITE... Ms O’Keeffe on the front steps of Parliament last week. Photo: Supplied

YOUR CHANCE TO SHINE... Kialla-based artist Aleisa Miksad presented ‘Between Scylla and Charybdis | Amphora’ for her SAM Spotlight exhibition, which featured a collection of her intricate, hand-coiled ceramics. Applications for the next exhibition are now open. Photo: Supplied

Shepparton students reach for the Moon

A GROUNDBREAKING space-themed educational event, a collaboration between Freely Accessible Remote Laboratories (FARLabs) and Museums Victoria, took place on Monday, September 4 at the Greater Shepparton Secondary College. Students from Greater Shepparton Secondary College, Marymede Catholic College, and Showa Gakuin Junior High School (located in Japan) delved into space travel intricacies, guided by experts from La Trobe University and Scienceworks (Museums Victoria).

The event's highlight was students remotely conducting experiments using La Trobe University's advanced scientific equipment via the FARLabs platform from their classrooms. A key focus was radiation, crucial for space travel. Students remotely executed a Radiation Turntable experiment at La Trobe University, identifying effective radiation shields for moon base design.

Dr David Hoxley, Senior Physics Lecturer and FARLabs co-founder at La Trobe University, enthusiastically remarked, “This event is a great example of international collaboration, inspiring young minds to reach for the stars while conducting hands-on space science experiments. It's an educational journey that truly knows no boundaries.”

Greater Shepparton Secondary College launched the event by participating in four sessions in a single intensive day. The collaboration promotes scientific exploration and intercultural understanding among these institutions.

SHEPPARTON SPACE PROGRAM... Dr David Hoxley, Senior Physics Lecturer and FARLabs Co-Founder at La Trobe University (centre), guides GSSC Year 10 students Keiko Martin-Walsh and Chloe Bray in handson experiments during the collaborative space-themed event at the Greater Shepparton Secondary College. Photo Stephanie Holliday

Improved facilities for abilities with GMW

GOULBURN-MURRAY Water (GMW) have improved all abilities facilities at their lakes, dams and reservoirs are getting the tick of approval from regular visitors. The water corporation, with the aid of local councils and governments, has been able to increase the accessibility of its facilities at its storages.

GMW-managed storages with all ability facilities include Lake Mulwala,

Dartmouth Dam, Lake Buffalo, Lake William Hovell, Torumbarry Weir, Lake Eildon, Waranga Basin, Greens Lake, Lake Eppalock, and Cairn Curran.

GMW Recreation and Land Officer

Chris Braden said considerable progress has been made in making GMW storages more inclusive. “Across our dams, lakes, and reservoirs, we have 20 all ability toilet blocks and eight all ability

barbecues,” Mr Braden said.

“We are eager to do what we can to make sure people of all abilities can visit our storages and have a great time and improving the facilities available is the best way to achieve this,” Mr Braden said.

GMW has a list of all ability facilities at its storages on its website: https://www.g-mwater.com.au/ all-ability-facilites.

Darby’s Paint’s new location has them blossoming with colour

Ultimate journey through the Outback

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CRUISING in style to their new location on Benalla Road Shepparton, beloved Staffy-Greyhound cross Molly and the team at Darby's Paints Shepparton are rapidly getting ready for their grand opening in October.

Although there is plenty of work to be done, the new store will be fully stocked and

operational by the second week of October. And the friendly team are ready to help their customers.

The larger store will allow Darby's to stock a wider range with several new products. Including Ilva Timber Coatings, a premium Italian brand established in 1942. Ilva offers an extensive range of 2-Pack

timber coatings, available in a diverse array of colours.

"Spring is the time for new colour, and Darby's Shepparton is Blossoming," said store manager, Megan Brown. You can find Darby's Paints at 81 Benalla Road, Shepparton, or call the friendly staff on 5821 0111.

PAINT IT YOUR WAY... sales representative, Brad Connelly, business development manager) Dean Rankin, sales assistant, Christina MacGregor, branch manager, Megan Brown and mascot Molly.

Photo: Emma Harrop

Authorised by Wendy Lovell MP, 222 Wyndham Street Shepparton.

A finger in the right direction

Power up your hengines

POWER up your hengines, it's National Chook Health Month! This September is all about empowering your strong, independent chooks so they can become their best hen-self, and that starts with a good quality diet. Barastoc's range of complete and balanced feeds ensure your hens are getting all the right nutrients to power their lives from the inside out.

If hatchlings are on the way soon, give your little hengines a head-start with Barastoc's Chick Starter and Pullet Grower. Packed with vitamins, minerals and an anti-coccidial for protection, they'll be off to a great start as happy, healthy and independent hens.

Setting them up for success means you'll end up with a hard-working team of egg producers

who are finely tuned machines. In order to keep them running smoothly and operating at their best, you need to look after their inner health, starting with their guts. Barastoc Golden Yolk is the only layer chicken feed that features PoultryStar® a probiotic specifically developed for chooks.

All Barastock products are available at every Hunters store, pop in and see one of our friendly staff for the best products and best price, located 20 – 28 Florence Street, Shepparton, Phone: 03 5833 63999.

Note: All purchases over $20 until the end of October 2023 will be eligible to go into the Hunters $25,000 giveaway, see in any Hunters store for details.

DOING their bit in the fight against cancer, Shepparton Club will donate this month's community charity raffle to the Prostate Cancer Facility at GV Health Foundation.

At GV Health’s Peter Copulos Cancer and Wellness Centre, specialist cancer care nurses can provide vital advice and information, help coordinate care, provide

referrals and offer emotional support for patients receiving care.

To enter, scan the QR or visit clubraffles. online/sheppartoncharityraffle, or drop into the Shepparton Club at 455 Wyndham Street on Friday, September 15, for a quiet drink and a scrumptious meal and to support this wonderful charity. For booking call 58314488

CLUBBING CANCER... Left to right, Shepparton club manager, Wayne Sutton, Prostate cancer specialist nurses, Sonia Strachan and Nichole Lewis, Shepparton club admin, Paul Coonerty, GV health foundation, brand and donor officer, Jaimee Squire. Photo: Aaron Cordy

Agribusiness super event at Henty

SOUTHERN Australia’s Biggest agricultural event, the Henty Machinery Field Days (HMFD), is back from Tuesday to Thursday, September 19-21. Celebrating their 60th birthday, the three day event is expected to be bigger than ever with a program full of the latest agricultural equipment and technology, plus entertainment for the whole family.

“The field days will have all the usual attractions including the prestigious Henty Machine of the Year Award, the working sheep dog trials, Country Lifestyle pavilion, Farm Gate Produce Area, Baker Seeds agronomy trials, helicopter joy rides, live entertainment, outdoor monster fish tank, the Natural Fibre Fashion Awards and vintage farm machinery display,” HMFD CEO Belinda Anderson said.

Gates open from 8am to 5pm. Tickets can be purchased at the gate or online, adults $30, children under 17 years $10, children under 12 are free. For more information visit www.hmfd.com.au.

Chartering opportunites for women in the community

APPLICATIONS for the Greater Shepparton Women’s Charter Advisory Committee (GSWCAC) membership closes at 5pm on Friday, September 8. The GSWCAC is a volunteer committee providing advice to Council on matters related to gender equality, representation, leadership, recognition, and wellbeing of individuals identifying as women in Greater Shepparton. The committee also contributes significantly to the development and implementation of the Greater Shepparton Women’s Charter Action Plan.

Charter Champion, Cr Dinny Adem said the Committee aimed to foster better opportunities for women.

“One of the core principles of the Greater Shepparton Women’s Charter Advisory Committee is diversity, ensuring the committee's membership represents the diverse community of Greater Shepparton,” he said.

"It is vital that both women and men speak up about the issues and opportunities impacting women in our community. We invite you to bring your unique voice to the table and help us drive lasting change in Greater Shepparton."

THE POWER OF PRINT

AGRICULTURAL SUPER EVENT...

Celebrating its 60th birthday, the Henty Field Days is expected to be bigger than ever with a program full of the latest agricultural equipment and technology.

Applications close 5pm on Friday September 8. Submission via www.greatershepparton.com.au or contact Council on (03) 58329700 for more information.

Photo: Supplied

Kicking towards their dreams

continued from front page

JY, ALONG with former AFL Brownlow medallist Shane Crawford, and Federal Member for Nicholls, Sam Birrell, were on hand last week to teach the children of Mooroopna Primary School some valuable lessons about goal setting and chasing your dream.

The students got to meet the AFL stars, ask questions, run kicking and drills sessions, with Mr Simpkin joining them in a rendition of the Mooroopna Primary School song before they headed back to class.

Like many students of primary age, Jy hadn’t quite taken his schooling to seriously. “I liked lunch time. Playing footy and running around with my mates,” he said. Which gave him a good grounding to pursue his dream of playing AFL football.

“It’s good to come out and connect with the kids. Especially in the country, because I think the country kids appreciate it more,” said former AFL great Shane Crawford, hailing from Finley, before achieving the ultimate AFL success individually and as part of a team.

continued from front page

Tipsters hit the jackpot!

“I HAD told the guys at work that if I won it, I’ll shout them all a BBQ and drinks, so the pressure was on. I’m glad I came through with the win after that.”

Mr Bushby and his work collegues will enjoy a $1500

AFL Grand Final party pack sourced from local suppliers. Lucky runner up, Jarrod Harry of Linemasta, scored himself a $500 Weber and BBQ pack. A $200 meat and Liquor pack will be enjoyed by third place winner Cameron Kearney of Fairley’s SUPA IGA.

BIG DREAMS

Despite the home and away season being over, like the AFL, the action is only heating up. It's time for those who fell short in our home & away season tipping competition to seek redemption with our AFL Finals 4-week mini comp. Kicking off the first week of finals, Thursday, September 7.

Kayden Dempsey, Worakai Larkins, Nixon Harold, Shae and Kaylah Murley flying for

pack mark on the shoulders of North Melbourne cocaptin Jy Simpkin.

Photo: Aaron Cordy

LONG STANDING LOCAL BOAT BUSINESS… SH Wallace & Co were represented well at the Expo showing off the latest in Stacer boats and Honda outboard motors. The three generation business now run by Marc Wallace and son Zac, is close to completing a major upgrade of the business in Wheeler Street, Shepparton. Marc said the new premises on the existing site includes a 1000 sqm showroom and 500 sqm four bay workshop.

OVER the weekend, the 2023 Shepparton Great Outdoor and 4×4 Expo, returned to the Shepparton Showgrounds. The Expo was proudly supported by the Goulburn Valley’s own Donway Caravans, and other notable brands such as Crusader, Jayco and AUSTRACK among many others.

The expo showcased everything needed for adventure, including the latest range of caravans, campervans, camping gear, home and

MILLARDS

AUSTRALIA… Australia’s original caravan manufacturer was well represented by Andrew Ladas down from Taree, northern NSW. Millards is represented locally by Donway Caravans. Andrew’s family has a strong generational connection to Millards with his dad working for the firm for many

IT WAS ALL FAMILY LEISURE

AT THE

vehicle accessories, boating, 4×4 and off-roading, with retailer demonstrations and family-friendly activities.

The Shepparton Expo was a great success and proved more popular than recently held Albury / Wodonga Expo. Founder of Donway Caravans, Peter Don said they had sold several caravans at the Expo. Peter said he had 41 caravans arriving at their business shortly, offering great choice to Goulburn Valley residents.

GREAT OUTDOOR & 4X4 EXPO… from left, John, Maddi and Lisa Crawford with Solar City Marine and Caravan’s Jim Edmunds.

BOATS SELLING WELL… It was a busy weekend at Shepparton Showgrounds, from left were Liam Tuohey and Carmen McCully of Solar City Marine and

A REAL FAMILY GATHERING AT THE DONWAY STAND… the Donway Caravan team from left Skip Schiavon, Liana Payne, Kevin Gribble, Keelan Don, Rhonda Don and Peter Don. Photos: Geoff Adams

GREAT SUCCESS... Leigh McCully of Solar City Marine and Caravans said the show was a success, with steady crowds and selling caravans, boats as well as

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Football previews round 2 finals

ECHUCA V KYABRAM

Echuca booked its spot in the second semi-final showdown with a hardfought win over Seymour while Kyabram did likewise after shaking off a gallant Mansfield under lights at Mooroopna. In the two meetings between the teams this year, they have gone in the favour of the reigning premier. But that said, the Bombers have had their moments during those contests before the reigning premier stamped their authority on them to run out winners both times. Echuca had to work hard to shake off the Lions at Benalla last Saturday. They were able to establish an advantage during the third quarter and then maintained it before running out 32-point winners. I do find it hard seeing the Bombers defeat the Murray Bombers.

I think the Murray Bombers leg speed could worry the Bombers and despite the absence of Byrne I do think they have the cattle in their forward line to kick a winning score and advance to the grand-final. Tip: Echuca

SEYMOUR V EUROA

What a contest this promises to be. Euroa is in really good form having won its final home-and-away match against

Saturday 16th September 2023

Nathalia

Mansfield and then storming home against Mooroopna in its elimination final. Despite not beating Seymour in 2023, the Lions have got the wobbles. They lost in their round 18 contest and while they were competitive against Echuca, they lost by 5 goals. That aside, re-appointed coach Ben Davey is a good operator and he won’t hit the panic button. He knows that their best is good enough to beat anyone. Would it be considered a failed season if the Lions didn’t at the very least get to the final three? The answer for me is yes. I know that might sound harsh, but given they only lost two games during the homeand-away by a combined total of 11 points, I think they would have been banking on getting to the second last week of finals at a minimum. Internally at Euroa there was that belief that if they got their troops back on the park, then they could contend. Against Mooroopna the Pies dominated territory in the second half. They kicked 0.7 in the third quarter but they made amends in the last quarter, especially Jett Trotter who kicked three of his team’s seven goals to help them run out six-goal winners. I am going for the Pies in a thriller. Tip: Euroa.

FINALS FEVER... Seniors Shepp Bears player Ethan Baxter tags Nathan Beattie of Seymour. Photo: Supplied

Haisman Shield fixture unveiled for upcoming season

By Dillon Shelley

GET ready for a thrilling cricket season, as the eagerly awaited Haisman Shield fixture for the 2023/2024 season has just been unveiled. Cricket enthusiasts are gearing up for an action-packed season set to kick off on Saturday, October 7th.

With the first five rounds featuring one-day matches before returning to two-day cricket for the first time in four years.

The spotlight is firmly fixed on reigning champions, Katandra, who are poised to defend their hard-earned title in what promises to be a fiercely competitive league.

With high expectations and fierce rivalries, this season's Haisman Shield promises excitement and drama on every pitch across the region. Grab your gear, mark your calendars, and prepare for a cricketing spectacle like no other.

Finals week 2 netball previews with sam

MOOROOPNA V ECHUCA

Mooroopna’s form going into the finals was probably not at its usual best. The Cats jumped out of the blocks with eight straight wins.

Then after they have lost four their last 10 games, including twice to Echuca. One of those defeats to the Murray Bombers came in round 18 at the Cattery. But the master coach Di Hanslow got her group up for the qualifying final. They got to the front against Euroa and was never headed.

Ash Lancaster (28) and Ella Ogier (16) combined beautifully to put the score on the board for the Cats. But what would have impressed Hanslow the most was the defensive work of her team.

They were able to restrict Mia Sudomirski to 20 goals and credit must go to Maddison Wong and her defensive team.

And through the mid-court the likes of Asha Gray, Shelby Britten and Paigen Impey were able to ensure plenty of supply to the shooting duo of Lancaster and Ogier. They will again be important.

Hanslow will no doubt be digesting what went wrong in the round 18 clash. The Murray Bombers’ were clinical in winning by 17 goals and played one of their best games of the season.

Coach Belinda Lees is no fool. She knows her girls will have to play as well if not better than the round 18 clash. Lees and her group will be ready for the Cats.

Steph Vick through the mid-court will be important to ensure she links up with the attackers to ensure Sherridan Townrow can influence the contest.

Down back, Lauren Jones and Ash Mangan will be important.

They have been a dynamic defensive combination, especially in the second half of the season as the Murray Bombers have won 10 of their last 11 including last Saturday’s elimination final against Shepparton.

With two wins against Mooroopna this year, the Murray Bombers will feel confident it can advance to the grand-final.

I think you can’t discount that and it is for that reason I am going for Echuca to move into the big dance. Tip: Echuca.

EUROA V TATURA

Tatura will be looking to continue its giant-killing run after it ended the aspirations of Seymour claiming back-to-back titles.

After playing in their first finals series in 17 years, the Bulldogs produced arguably one of their best performances of the season to blitz the Lions.

That win has made the others sit up and take notice.

For those that were thinking that the Bulldogs were maybe making up the numbers, then think again.

Beware Euroa. Coach Ellie Warnock knows this will be a tough game as it looks to bounce back from the qualifying final loss to Mooroopna last

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Saturday night.

They have had a wonderful year, finishing as the minor premier, but Warnock and her Euroa team knows it means nothing if it can’t beat Tatura.

Tatura’s form is really good going into this contest, winning its final three home-and-away rounds and then producing a sensational four-quarter effort to skip past the reigning premier.

The teams played once during the year at Tatura on May 27 and Euroa won comfortably by 18 goals.

The key match-up could between Molly Boyle and Mia Sudomirski.

Boyle will be imploring her team-mates to put pressure on the ball to make it hard to get the supply to one of the league’s leading shooters in 2023.

So, I believe the team which is more desperate, copes with the pressure and can take their chances will win a spot in the preliminary final.

Winning form is good form and that is why I am going with Tatura. Tip: Tatura.

GREAT SEASON AHEAD.. .The eagerly awaited Haisman Shield fixture for the 2023/2024 season has just been unveiled. The reigning champions, Katandra, are in the crosshairs as the new Cricket Shepparton Haisman Shield season gets underway on Saturday, October 7th.

Revving up excitement as kart titles thrill Numurkah

By Dillon Shelley

ROARING engines and burning rubber took centre stage in an adrenaline-fuelled spectacle as the Goulburn Valley Kart Club in Numurkah, once again unleashed the annual Australasian Kart Titles on the weekend of September 2-3 at the heart-pounding Numurkah Raceway. As the sun shone brightly on Father's Day, racetrack enthusiasts revelled in the ideal weather conditions, setting the scene for two unforgettable days of highspeed action.

This year's event boasted an astonishing 12 classes, resulting in a jaw-dropping 48 individual heats and races, featuring over 130 exceptionally skilled drivers. Participants from every corner of Australia descended upon Numurkah, each fuelled by the dream of claiming a piece of the impressive $14,000 cash prize pool.

The stage for this adrenalinepacked showdown was the 541meter clockwise circuit, where karting aficionados found themselves immersed in a world of exhilaration and drivers pushed the boundaries of speed and precision.

The weekend encapsulated the essence of karting: a blend of fun, family, friendship, and fierce competition that left participants and spectators alike with memories to last a lifetime.

Photo: Supplied

WINNERS... Annie Thomson receiving a pass from Jacoba Tanner in the 15 and Under Elimination Final. Photo: Caroline Trenfield

Dance the day away at Rochella

HEADING TO ROCHESTER... The Black Sorrows will be headlining Rochella in October, an all-in community affair, organised by Rochester Community House for the local community with support from sporting clubs and committees of the region. The event is an opportunity for locals to come together and take some time out following the floods of 2022. Alongside live music, it will feature fun family activities and local food stalls.

GET ready for ROCHELLA, an epic day of live music, food, family fun and more, all in the name of recovery and resilience.

An all-in community affair, taking place on Saturday October 14 at the Rochester Recreation Reserve, ROCHELLA has been organised Rochester Community House for the local community with support from sporting clubs and committees of the region.

The event is an opportunity for locals to come together and take some time out following the floods of 2022. Alongside live

music, ROCHELLA will feature fun family activities and local food stalls.

The festival will be headlined by awardwinning Victorian bands Cash Savage and The Black Sorrows as well as musicians from the local community and around the state. The line-up includes Bones and Jones from Geelong, dance-pop collective Empress, Echuca band Stumbling North, family-friendly act The Burnt Sausages, and Australian Idol artist Anya Alchemy.

Local students will take a star turn

with the premiere of a song they wrote in collaboration with Golden Guitar winner Josh Arnold for his Small Town Culture music project.

On sale from Friday 25 August 2023, tickets are $10 for residents of postcode 3561, $30 for visitors and free for kids under 12. They can be purchased from the Rochester Newsagency or via rochellarochester.com.au.

Proceeds from ticket sales go to the Rochester Community Access Flood Relief Recovery Program visit musicvictoria.com. au.

New additions hopping into Kyabram

THE kangaroo mob at Kyabram Fauna Park is jumping for joy at the arrival of two Kangaroo Island joeys and two Eastern Grey joeys.

One cheeky Kangaroo Island joey is already hopping around and climbing all over mum Winnie, while the three others can be seen poking their heads out of their mother's pouch.

Kyabram Fauna Park macropod keeper Claire Bensted said the little joey is a joy to watch as he frolics around the vast Kangaroo Walkthrough area.

"The new joey is so boisterous and confident, he's using mum as a climbing frame and even tries to hop from her pouch to other pouches,” Ms Bensted said.

"Winnie is a great mum and it's amusing to watch her try and keep the cheeky little one out of the pouch while she takes her afternoon nap."

Of the two closely related sub-species, Kangaroo Island

joeys tend to reach independence earliest at approximately eight months old, while Eastern Grey kangaroos may take slightly longer before making the leap. Kangaroo Island kangaroos are a relatively small subspecies, known for their long eyelashes and easy-going temperaments.

They can be distinguished from the Eastern Grey kangaroos by their red-brown fur. Ms Bensted said visitors can enjoy walking through the vibrant woodlands and observing the joey as he grows into a large, 60kg male.

"The large woodland setting allows the kangaroos to comfortably undertake their parenting behaviours, graze together and rest together," Ms Bensted said.

“Their habitat also includes a waterbody that gives them the opportunity to retreat if they need to, have a drink or take a refreshing dip. As we come into Spring, the other three joeys will start to hop out of the pouch and join the rest of the mob, which will be lovely to see."

Photo: Supplied

KYABRAM FAUNA PARK... A young male joey emerging from mum’s pouch late winter at Kyabram Fauna Park. Photo: Supplied