By Deanne Jeffers
AUSTRALIANS
A disaster waiting to happen
By Natasha Fujimoto
IT doesn’t take a genius to understand that the appalling state of the roads in and around Dookie is, in the words of Leading Senior Constable Simon Hutchings, “a terrible accident waiting to happen.”
Pockmarked with a scourge of potholes, the roads, particularly just outside the
township, have deteriorated to the point where cars, caravans, and motorbikes are quite literally bouncing across them.
More than just a picturesque drive drawing tourists and visitors to the beautiful Dookie Hills and beyond, New Dookie Road is also an agricultural thoroughfare, carrying heavy farm vehicles and harvest trucks.
Already a relatively narrow stretch of winding road, its upkeep has been sorely neglected, according to LSC Hutchings, a police officer with over 43 years of experience, eight of which he has spent diligently manning the Dookie station.
Continued Page 6
ACCIDENT WAITING TO HAPPEN... According LSC Simon Hutchings (pictured), roads in and around Dookie, particularly stretches of New Dookie Road just kilometres out from the township, are some the worst he has ever seen across the state in his 43 year career. Having watched piecemeal, patchwork repairs of crater like potholes unravel within days under constant heavy vehicle traffic, LSC Hutchings said it’s only a matter of time before a serious accident occurs. Photo: Natasha Fujimoto
Regal win for local sculptor at Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show
By Natasha Fujimoto
CRAFTING a metal sculpture that breathes life and tender emotion into the form of a majestic horse is an artistry deserving of award-winning recognition.
Local sculptor Mark Niglia is one such skilled artist, having achieved remarkable success this March, winning first prize in the Estate Garden category at the Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show for his entry, Duchess.
Crafted in mild steel, this stunning horse sculpture captures both the stoic elegance and power of a thoroughbred horse and follows on from his third-place win at the premier flower and garden show event in 2022 for Liberta, a magnificent pegasus designed to inspire freedom in the face of lockdown during COVID.
Mark’s intricate design, ranging from
the graceful curves of Duchess’ outline to the intricate twists and turns within, demonstrates his extraordinary skill, manipulating the steel to convey feelings of tenderness, inviting the viewer to reach out and touch the artwork.
Passionate about sculpture from the age of 10, Mark said he only turned a serious hand toward sculpture about seven years ago.
"I found sculpture an escape, almost like therapy, and it was just so enjoyable to do. I felt wonderful after hours in the workshop making sculptures.”
Having grown up around horses, Mark said he continues to use these beautiful creatures as inspiration for his work, channelling their power and fragility.
“I love horses, and I love making horses. I feel like I can make them express different
feelings, and I can express different feelings through them. I have always enjoyed their beauty. Even when I’ve gone to the races and watched them thunder past, I absolutely love looking at them and admiring their power. I can’t keep my eyes off them, because I try to study the way they’re made and the way they move."
Following a sculpture commissioned by royalty in Dubai, Duchess was created from a desire to craft a horse fitting for a lady of the English gentry. Winning first place and high praise from judges for his exceptional execution, Mark said, “It felt fantastic to be recognised for what I do. It makes it feel real and appreciated.”
For more on Mark’s sculptures, visit his website at www.marknigliasculpture.com
Sculptor Mark Niglia (pictured) has been deservedly recognised for his remarkable artistry at this year’s Melbourne
ANZAC DAY SERVICES
ANZAC Day is Friday, April 25. For services outside of Shepparton, Mooroopna and Tatura, please contact your local RSL branch for information about their services and commemorations.
Dawn Service – Shepparton
5.45am Assemble at the Victoria Hotel, cnr of Wyndham and Fryers Streets.
5.50am Form Up and March departs
6am Dawn Service at Memorial Park
6.30am Conclusion of service, followed by Gunfire Breakfast. Eggs and bacon rolls $2 + complementary tea, coffee and juice until 9am. All proceeds go to the 2025 ANZAC Appeal.
Commemorative Service – Shepparton
10.20am Congregate in Shepparton RSL carpark. Bus available for those unable to march.
10.40am Parade departs RSL for Memorial Park along Welsford St.
11am Service commences.
11.30am Conclusion of service.
Please note, due to renovations Shepparton RSL is unable to hold traditional light lunch in the function room. The Diggers Bistro will be open for regular $15.50 lunch menu and full bistro menu.
Bookings are essential: 5820 4100.
Anzac Day Service – Mooroopna
8.30am Congregate in front of water tower
8.45am March to Memorial Park 9am Service commences
9.30am Conclusion of service.
Dawn Service – Tatura
6.15am Dawn Service commences at Mactier Gardens, Tatura. Service followed by Gunfire Breakfast with free bacon and egg rolls.
Anzac Day Service – Tatura
10.45am March departs from Stuart Mock Place, Tatura, down Hogan Street toward Mactier Gardens.
11am Service at Mactier Gardens, followed by sausage sizzle provided by Tatura Lions and RSL Sub-Branch.
VALE POPE FRANCIS
Pope Francis died on Easter Monday, April 21, 2025, at the age of 88 at his residence in the Vatican’s Casa Santa Marta. At 9.45am local time (5.45pm AEST), Cardinal Kevin Farrell, the Holy See’s camerlengo, announced the Pope’s death with these words:
“Dearest brothers and sisters, with deep sorrow I must announce the death of our Holy Father Francis. At 7.35 this morning (3.45pm AEST), the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the house of the Father.
“His entire life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and of His Church. He taught us to live
the values of the Gospel with fidelity, courage, and universal love, especially in favour of the poorest and most marginalised.
“With immense gratitude for his example as a true disciple of the Lord Jesus, we commend the soul of Pope Francis to the infinite merciful love of the One and Triune God.”
The Vatican said the Pope died after suffering a stroke and cardiac arrest. No date has yet been given for the funeral, but the Vatican said it would normally be expected to take place sometime between Friday and Sunday. A group of cardinals were due to meet on Tuesday to discuss plans.
OSCAR LEADS THE WAY
Oscar Piastri has won the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix and the lead in the Formula 1 drivers’ championship. It is the first time an Australian has led the drivers’ championship for 15 years, since Mark Webber in 2010. The young driver with family ties to Shepparton has taken the racing world by storm since his breakout season last year.
As of the 2025 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, Piastri has achieved five race wins, two pole positions, four fastest laps and 14 podiums in Formula One.
DEVENISH DOOKIE AND DISTRICT DO IT AGAIN
The Devenish Dookie & District Good Friday Appeal (DDDGFA) has again raised a staggering amount for the Royal Children’s Hospital Appeal. The $235,622 raised by the DDDGFA committee saw them finish third overall on the town leaderboard behind Ballarat ($247,282) and Albury/Wodonga ($237,526). The dedicated committee of Area Manager Cathy Hill, President Paul Durden, Vice President Matt Parker, Secretary Jan Durden, Treasurer Chelsea McKay, and committee members Narelle Parker, Rodney and Shirley Clarke with the support of Katamatite and Dookie Lions Clubs, Devenish Market, the numerous volunteers and the community who supported the fundraising events by DDDGFA should be proud of their incredible efforts.
UNITING VOLUNTEERS
VOLUNTEERS are the back bone of organisations, community groups and sporting clubs. The unsung heroes who show up week in and week out to help out. The Shepparton United Football and Netball Club has put a call out to anyone with some free time to join its wonderful organisation. It doesn’t matter what experience and skill you have, or previous affiliation with the club, they will have a role for you. Volunteers are needed for juniors, seniors, football and netball. You can help in the canteen or the
bar, be an interchange steward, umpire and much more for an organisation that builds friendships and camaraderie while working together.
If you are interested contact Simone Higgins at 0437 100 109 or Nicole Lewis at 0458 317 711.
GOODNESS FOUND
There are a lot of negative things said about Shepparton, outside and certainly from within the township. While at times, Shepparton has earned some negative flack, it doesn’t fairly represent the vast majority of people living in this diverse and vibrant community.
When a local dropped his wallet in the Maude Street Mall on Tuesday afternoon, he posted on two Shepparton Facebook community pages to see if anyone had found it. There were hearts and likes, comments of support, a cheeky comment about a reward from a friend of the owner of the missing wallet, and of course the negative comment – surprisingly only one. “This is Shepparton mate, you won’t be getting that back.” An attitude often heard in town, but not the true measure of most locals.
It was one comment that showed the character of Shepparton residents. “Hey buddy, a lady found that wallet today and asked me what to do with it, I suggested to hand it to the cleaners at Target Arcade as it was found at the arcade entrance thinking you might come back for it, or give it to the police. It might be at the arcade still as the lady walked in there with it.”
Thanks to two genuine, honest locals the wallet was returned the next day. It may have been luck, it may have been chance, but the incident shows that there are a lot of good people in Greater Shepparton simply doing the right thing.
SALVAGE AT THE LIBRARY
Saturday, June 3, 1972, a small convoy of vehicles and equipment from Shepparton drove through the Barmah Forest to the Murray River where the wreck of the paddle steamer Alexander Arbuthnot lay. A remarkable salvage story was about to unfold. Built in Koondrook in 1916, the Alexander Arbuthnot worked the river until one night in 1947 when the river rose sharply, and she listed and sank. Join us for the story of recovery and restoration and the small, enthusiastic team of people led by John Sutherland that made it possible. Shepparton local, Helene Sutherland (pictured), wife of John Sutherland, introduces her book The Salvage of the Alexander Arbuthnot when she speaks at the Shepparton Library on Tuesday, April 29 at 2.30pm and Nathalia Library on Thursday, May 1, at 2.30pm.
Under the same stars
By Aaron Cordy
UNDER the Same Stars was the brainchild of Jim Gow, a Youth Participation Worker at Salvation Army North East Youth Services (SANEYS). An event to rally local support and raise money for local youth homelessness, by sharing the experience of sleeping rough for a night a Deakin Reserve.
“It’s a fantastic start. We achieved what we set out to achieve, and that is over 100 people sleeping out tonight. And with a bit of luck, with some auctions and bits and pieces together, we’ll raise over 20 grand. So that’s an amazing start. But a room full of people all here for a great cause, and to have that response has been great,” said Jim.
SANEYS members, Jim Gow, Tamara Flanagan, and Talysha Dawson spoke along with the Salvation Army Youth Services state manager James Aloni. But it was the lived experience of homelessness that Travis Wallace and local Jarvis Atkinson shared with the crowd that painted a true picture of the perils facing many young people in Australia.
“What a fantastic event to be able to host here
tonight and raise awareness for Youth Homelessness Matters Day. we’d like to just acknowledge all the people who have come here in support of our program and for the community as well. it’s a terrific event that obviously helps bring the community together and raise further awareness for the sport required for young people in Victoria, and greater Shepparton,” said James Aloni.
The night didn’t go as planned with the sprinklers going off around midnight. The unexpected shower gave those sleeping out an important lesson about homelessness, even if you think you found somewhere safe for the night, there are no guarantees.
Peter Ralph and Vic Bovalino did 100 Miles From Home as part of the event. Running a 161km to Deakin Reserve, arriving before 4am. An incredible effort to raise money and awareness for the caus
It’s a fantastic start. We achieved what we set out to achieve, and that is over 100 people sleeping out tonight.
Jim Gow YOUTH HOMELESSNESS... Jim Gow (pictured), a Youth Participation Worker at Salvation Army North East Youth Services, was the event organiser for Under the Same Stars. It fantastic imitative of the SANEYS to raise money for local youth homelessness. As he thanked everyone who supported the event, it was clear how much the night and the plight of young people in the region meant to him. Photo: Emma Harrop
SLEEPING ROUGH... Over 100 locals sleep out at Deakin Reserve for Under the Same Star, a youth homeless event aimed at raising money for locals who don’t have a secure roof over their heads. From left, Elizabeth Capp, Amy De Paola, Amy Robinson and Meg Pethybridge, shared the experience. Photo: Aaron Cordy
SLEEPING OUT… Owner of Everyday Supplies, Jace McCarty was one of 100 people to throw their support behind Under the Same Stars, the sleep-out event organised by Salvation Army North East Youth Services. Everyday Supplies was a massive contributor to the event. Photo: Aaron Cordy
“Scrap The Tax” and kill off Labor’s latest cash grab
THE Victorian Nationals' have launched their "Scrap The Tax" campaign, aimed at killing off yet another shameless cash grab from the Labor Government.
The latest attempt to add another cash grab from regional Victorians comes in the form of a sneaky new emergency services tax which Labor is seeking to have introduced in under three months.
With the help of regional Victorians, The Nationals are hoping to stop Labor's 60th new or increased tax in its tracks.
The window to strike is now, with a vote in Parliament on the new tax deferred until next month.
To kick off the campaign to kill this $2.1B cash grab, Victorians are being asked to visit scrapthetax.com.au and send your protest message to the Treasurer, Jaclyn Symes.
Despite no guarantees that frontline emergency services will improve, the impact of the tax will be significant when compared with the existing fire services levy:
Households will pay almost double.
Costs will be passed on to renters.
Commercial rates to increase by 100 per cent.
• Industrial rates will soar by 64 per cent.
• Farmers face a painful 189 per cent rise.
State Member for Shepparton District, Kim
O'Keeffe, is urging all locals to send the Treasurer a clear message.
"Yet again, hardworking regional Victorians are being asked to stump up and pay for Labor's financial incompetence," she said.
"We won't allow Labor to once again impose another tax placing more financial stress on people's lives.
"The Treasurer represents our community and has shown no regard for our region, happy to let farmers, small business owners and industry be hit with yet another cost and additional financial stress.
"Her astonishing comments that those being
the
asked to pay more can afford it clearly show how out of touch she is with struggling Victorians.
"This tax should be scrapped and we need your support to make it happen.
A disaster waiting to happen
continued from front page
“I’ve worked in places all over the state, and I’ve never seen roads this bad anywhere, let alone for this long. Some of the potholes are 30 to 50 cm wide, and some are quite deep. If a motorbike hits one, and there are a lot of them out there on the weekends—it’s an accident waiting to happen.”
Having raised the alarm about the condition of the road for some time, even taking it upon himself to mark the largest and most dangerous craters, LSC Hutchings is far from impressed by the lacklustre, patchwork repairs that have taken place. He argues that full resurfacing is urgently needed.
“It’s a disgrace. I want to see the roads fixed as soon as possible just to avert an accident. It’s amazing that one hasn’t already happened. I recently saw road workers near the New
Dookie Road and Quarry Road intersection patching the road with shovels and stamping down filled potholes with their feet. About three days later, the holes were exposed again, thanks to hundreds of trucks going over them every few days on their way to silos.”
Echoing LSC Hutchings’ concerns, locals are also outraged, having reported significant damage to their vehicles.
“We’ve had cars damaged due to the poor road surfaces. I’ve had several people tell me they’ve blown tyres and damaged wheel rims on these unsatisfactory sections of roadway. It’s a miracle that no serious accidents have been reported so far.”
Still, locals are growing increasingly frustrated with the economic impact the road’s poor condition, and worsening reputation, is having on the township.
“Locals are angry. We had a car show recently in
Shepparton involving GT Falcons, and they were supposed to come out here for lunch at the Gladstone Hotel. But I’ve heard that a lot of them didn’t want to risk taking their cars out on this road due to the poor conditions. A small number of GT Falcons attended Dookie but many more drivers who had booked didn’t show up due to the risk of having to travel on the pitiable state of New Dookie Road.”
Asked why he thinks it has taken so long for VicRoads, whose jurisdiction includes New Dookie Road, to act, LSC Hutchings said,
“It all comes down to money. And politics. But it shouldn’t be. This is about road safety. It’s been untouched too long. The current road conditions in this area are deplorable and urgent works need to be completed as soon as possible. The safety of motorists is compromised as long as this saga continues.”
NEW TAX... The Victorian Nationals have launched their Scrap The Tax campaign to oppose a proposed $2.1B emergency services levy, which they call a cash grab targeting regional Victorians. They say it marks Labor’s 60th new or increased tax and are urging people to visit scrapthetax.com.au to send a protest message to Treasurer Jaclyn Symes before
parliamentary vote next month. Photo: Supplied
Range the Australian bush with Captain Thunderbolt
By Aaron Cordy
PACK the swag and an old rifle and head to the Hunter Valley on a daring adventure with Captain Thunderbolt (aka Fred Ward) and his young apprentice, William Monckton, in the fictionalised Australian history novel, Too Young to Hold a Gun, by Peter Spencer.
Captain Thunderbolt ranged the largest area of any of Australia’s infamous bushrangers for six years, which made him the longest-ranging outlaw. Known as the ‘Gentleman Bushranger’ because he never robbed women, he never drew blood, never shot a policeman and never shot the public, which endeared him to the public.
Too Young to Hold a Gun has taken about 12 years of
research, and centres around the year author Peter Spencer’s great-grandfather, William Monckton rode with the outlaw.
“My great-grandfather, William Monckton, at the age of 13, ran away from a cruel stepfather to join Captain Thunderbolt as a Bushranger,” said Peter.
“The book is tied in with history and with Captain Thunderbolt, about the year that my great-grandfather rode with Thunderbolt. It contains a year's worth of their exploits and their robberies.”
Bushrangers have been romanticised in Australian folklore, but Peter’s book shows the true story of life as an outlaw.
“These days bushrangers like Ned Kelly are seen as romantic. I've tried to portray that it was a rotten life, being
hunted the whole time. They can never stay in one place longer than one night. It wasn't a nice living in the Australian bush.”
To grab your copy of his harrowing tale of life on the run in the Australian bush, visit Collins Booksellers on Maude Street where Peter left a stack of signed copies of Too Young to Hold a Gun, before he shot through town.
Head up mission to end hunger
SHEPPARTON Foodshare is seeking an experienced and passionate Executive Officer to lead the organisation into the future. An opportunity exists for an individual who embodies the values and spirit of the community driven service.
Established in 2012, the organisation is a not-for-profit that rescues and receives food donations. It distributes food to local
emergency relief agencies, meal programs, schools, neighbourhood houses and faith organisations in the Goulburn Valley and beyond. Partnering with supermarkets, businesses, manufacturers, growers, and other food rescue agencies, it provides nutritious food, extends shelf life, and prevents edible food from entering landfill.
The ideal candidate thrives on problem-
solving and is motivated by the challenge of finding innovative solutions to complex problems. The successful candidate will have a proven track record of strategic planning, resource management, and community engagement.
More information including Key Selection Criteria are available online: www.sheppartonfoodshare.org.au/post/
position-vacant-executive-officer
You can also contact the Acting Executive Officer, Cheryl Hammer, to learn more at executiveofficer@ sheppartonfoodshare.org.au
Applications are closing soon on Friday, May 2.
GENTLEMAN BUSHRANGER... Read about the harrowing life of Australian Bushranger Captain Thunderbolt (aka Fred Ward) and his young apprentice, William Monckton, in Too Young to Hold a Gun, by Peter Spencer (pictured). Grab a signed copy at Collins Booksellers on Maude Street Shepparton. Photo: Aaron Cordy
FOODSHARE… Shepparton Foodshare are seeking a new Executive Officer. Pictured from left are board members Peter Thompson, Damien Willoughby, Jan Phillips, Seema Abdullah, Cheryl Hammer, Jeremy Rensford, Jim O’Connor, Carolynne Frost, Lauren Donnellan, and Lyndon Galea. Photo: Deanne Jeffers
LOOKING for the perfect way to make Mum feel special this Mother’s Day? Prouds the Jewellers has you covered, with up to 50 per cent off selected gifts in its latest catalogue, packed with beautiful pieces to suit every style and budget.
And there’s more reason to celebrate – when you spend $50 or more in Prouds Shepparton, you’ll go in the draw to win a dazzling pair of diamond earrings valued at $1,799.
Spoil Mum and win big with Prouds the Jewellers
The competition begins Wednesday, April 23, and closes Friday, May 9, with the draw happening in store on Saturday, May 10, ahead of Mother’s Day on the Sunday. Full Terms and Conditions are on page 12 of this edition.
Whether you’re shopping for timeless elegance or a contemporary sparkle, you’ll find something she’ll love at Prouds. But don’t wait, these special offers are only available in
only
SHOP TO
store at Prouds Shepparton and only for a limited time. Prouds the Jewellers in located in the Maude Street Mall, on
Prouds the Jewellers in located in the Maude Street Mall, on the corner of Fryers and Maude Streets.
A Face behind Carmel Johnson c mmunity leadership
By Natasha Fujimoto
FROM her earliest memories growing up in the small town of Kyneton, Carmel Johnson learned to truly value community. She inherited the belief that a community is only as strong as its leaders, and that if one has the ability, one should work to support it. Over the past four decades, Carmel has drawn upon her family’s egalitarian values to help advance Greater Shepparton. From leadership roles and advocacy in special needs in education to fundraising for community health and the arts, Carmel’s passionate and ongoing contributions have been both transformative and lasting.
Currently the Head of Development at the Shepparton Art Museum (SAM), Carmel also serves as the Deputy Chair of The Fairley Foundation, which supports numerous programs that enhance arts, culture, and educational opportunities for young people in the region. With four decades of experience on various corporate and community boards, Carmel’s journey has come a long way from her days as a proud Loreto College student and later, a teacher’s college graduate in Ballarat.
Trained as a primary and special education teacher, Carmel’s first teaching position was at the Royal Children’s Hospital School before relocating several years later to Shepparton.
“I was very fortunate to work at RCH. It was a very humbling experience and an experience that enabled me to grow up overnight... it was an honour and a privilege to work alongside parents who would and always do everything for their child.”
Moving to Shepparton in 1978 following her marriage, Carmel worked for a short time supporting children with additional needs in a regular school before being offered the inaugural principal position at Graham Street Special School (now Banmira Specialist School – senior campus). No more than a series of portables, the new school was the first special education facility of its kind in Shepparton. When Carmel stepped into her new role, the school had only five teachers, with no running water, sewage, playground, or even students.
Although Carmel jokes that this school year was the one that turned her hair white, by the
year’s end, the ground-breaking and progressive school had 17 teachers and over 120 students.
“Graham Street was a lot of hard work. It was a challenge, but I worked alongside a lot of dedicated and very committed teachers to special education, and we felt as a school, as a teaching community, very humbled to be entrusted with the lives of those children whose parents, for many, many years in most cases, had little or no support for their child.”
Carmel described her time at Graham Street as an honour and a privilege, watching the children progress and thrive. In 1981, she moved to the GV Centre, now the NDIS provider Connect GV, as manager. That year was declared the International Year of the Disabled Person, marking the beginning of a new era of awareness and funding. This shift focused on what people could do, rather than what they couldn’t. Carmel said:
“People and children with disabilities and their families were being recognised for their abilities and what they dared to dream.
“Since then, children and adults have gone on to achieve great things because of this shift in perception and our community has supported them. That has continued to the point now where people with disabilities and their families today probably can’t imagine just how much progress has been made.”
Working alongside the community on numerous campaigns, Carmel has come to strongly believe that Greater Shepparton is exceptional for both its renowned generosity and its ‘hard-working man’s ethos.’ Not endowed with wealth inherited from gold fields, nor fortunate in its proximity to Melbourne, Shepparton is a place, she said, where the community is simply used to rolling up its sleeves to get things done.
After five years at the GV Centre, Carmel took on her ‘dream job’ as Community Liaison Officer at Goulburn Valley Health, working alongside other tireless advocates on the capital campaign to build a children’s wing at the hospital. Joining the likes of National Party Leader Peter Ross Edwards, then-GV Health CEO Tony Milan, and board chair Graham Hill, Carmel once again observed the power
of local philanthropy. Opened in 1989, after just 12 to 15 months of campaigning, $5.7M had been raised to build and equip the new children’s wing, with $2.3M of that amount coming directly from community efforts.
“This was an extraordinary amount of money. I saw a community come together and everybody, I would say, one way or another, almost every single person in Shepparton was engaged and contributed. They might have only given $1, but that dollar was well appreciated. There was a lot of advocacies and lobbying for the new children’s ward, so it was a real community celebration to see it finally achieved,” Carmel said.
Constantly on a learning curve and gaining skills and knowledge from those she serves and works alongside, Carmel’s role evolved over time into becoming the GV Health Foundation Director. In this capacity, she helped facilitate and support key developments, such as the establishment of the Rural Clinical School, before stepping down from the role after 30 years of dedicated service in December 2021.
In awe of the vision, leadership, and cultural significance of the new Shepparton Art Museum (SAM) for the region, Carmel’s appointment as the gallery’s Development Manager was a natural fit. It also reflected her long-standing devotion to the arts - Carmel was the inaugural chair of The Shepparton Festival, helping to deliver the program with a modest budget of just $600, some 29 years ago.
Though she was sad to leave GV Health behind, Carmel knew the new $50M building would be far-reaching for the community. Today, she continues to speak effusively about the museum’s cultural significance for the region.
“I think SAM has been a game changer. I think this beautiful big ‘box’ has provided a lot of intrigue, a lot of interest, and I think some new pride in the fact that we now have not probably but the bespoke regional art gallery in Victoria. We have the wonderful Kaiela Arts, and I’m told by many visitors that Shepparton has one of the best Visitor Centres in regional Victoria. And of course, each of the individual facilities are supported by such caring and welcoming volunteers. And we have the
GREATER SHEPPARTON...Through stalwart dedication and leadership, Carmel Johnson (pictured) has worked tirelessly over the past four decades, advocating for special needs in education, and fundraising for community health and the arts.
Guided by her family’s belief that a community is only as strong as its leaders, and that if one can support it, one should, Carmel stands as a fine example of how real change begins at the grassroots, through connection, compassion, and the courage to lead with purpose. Photo: Natasha Fujimoto
most beautiful, beautiful art museum with an astonishing collection of ceramics and some beautiful art that the community is now really appreciating. I think the whole precinct has become the village green for Shepparton.
“Our café is wonderful, with beautiful services being delivered by young people, and I think that tells us a lot about our faith and hope in young people and the future of Shepparton. I think SAM is full of young, vibrant creatives with a real commitment to making this museum the best it can be.”
Reiterating how privileged she has been to serve her community in many roles over the past four decades, Carmel views Greater Shepparton as a region on an “upward spiral.” Far from satisfied with her own contributions to date, this fine community leader added,
“I think that I have been honoured to have the roles I’ve had here in Shepparton, and I hope I will continue to make a contribution—be it at SAM or in the community—but that will certainly be my endeavour, and hopefully for many years to come”
Jewellers Shepparton to go in the draw to win a pair of diamond earrings worth $1,799. Prouds’ Mother’s Day catalogue is now available, with up to 50 per cent off selected giftware. Photo:
ADVANCING
Creating an exceptional dining experience with passion
WITH over 15 years in luxury hospitality, Chris Pitt is dedicated to creating unforgettable dining experiences at Trawool Estate. As the Food and Beverage Manager, he oversees three unique venues: the sophisticated Turbine, the elegant Wild Water, and the relaxed Herb Garden Pizzeria.
In collaboration with Trawool’s Executive Chef, Chris ensures the menus highlight global flavours and showcase the Estate’s homegrown produce. Trawool’s farm-totable approach, supported by an onsite vegetable patch, guarantees fresh, seasonal ingredients while supporting local farmers.
The community spirit at Trawool Estate comes to life through themed weekly dining events—Pasta Night, Fish and Chips Night, and Steak Night—each paired with a complimentary house beverage.
A daily Happy Hour (4–6 pm) across all venues further fosters connection with guests.
Passionate about exceptional service, Chris strives to make every meal a reflection of Trawool Estate’s luxury and natural beauty—an experience that lingers long after the last bite.
Opening hours: Turbine (tapas and cocktails), Friday-Saturday from April 26. Wild Water (modern Australian cuisine), Tuesday - Sunday. Herb Garden pizzeria, Friday- Sunday until April 13, closing for winter months.
To book your table or to view menus at Turbine or Wild Water visit: www.trawoolestate.com.au/ booktable
SAFE
While choosing an older car might seem more economical,
How safe is your car?
WHEN considering road safety, we often focus on road conditions or driver behaviour, but the vehicle itself is crucial for saving lives. Driving the safest car that you can afford significantly increases the chances of survival in a crash for everyone involved.
Teenagers often inherit older family cars, which can be risky due to a lack of modern safety features. Likewise, older drivers may hold onto cars they’ve always been comfortable with, even if it no longer suits their reflexes or physical capabilities. These demographics are unfortunately overrepresented in serious road trauma statistics.
Choosing an older vehicle might seem cost-
effective, but the potential costs in a crash can be devastating. Before buying a car, or to check how your current vehicle stacks up, visit howsafeisyourcar.com.au or ancap.com.au. Aim for cars with a minimum 3.5-star rating. It’s also worth remembering that many cars once deemed safe may not meet current standards. Modern technology like autonomous emergency braking and lane assist greatly improves safety for occupants and other road users.
Choosing a safer car is one of the most important decisions you can make for your family, and everyone else on the road.
VEHICLES SAVE LIVES...
BRINGING TO LIFE...global flavours and showcasing homegrown produce, Food and Beverage Manager, Chris Pitt (pictured) is dedicated to creating unforgettable dining experiences at the exceptional, Trawool Estate. Photo: Supplied
Aaron Tyrrell, One Nation
Q. What do you believe are the main issues facing the electorate right now?
The cost of living on Nicholls is impacting all of those who live here. From soaring energy costs to excessive taxes our communities are at (or even beyond) breaking point. We can no longer afford to allow our government to continue along this insane path of wringing our families dry.
Q. What is your opinion of the MurrayDarling Basin Plan, and open tender water buybacks, specifically?
As a dairy farmer I am fully aware of the disastrous impacts the MDBA and its Plan are inflicting on our primary producers and local communities. I am strongly opposed to MDBP and the buybacks. Stripping more water from local producers is only going to further destroy our already heavily decreasing Primary Production Industries and the local communities which rely on them. One Nations Water Policy has been intensively researched and involved vast stakeholders to ensure the best plan to move forward and re-establish a productive balance in water management and distribution on our MDB.
Q. What policy do you believe would make the greatest difference to cost-of-living?
Taxes. We are taxed on what we earn, what we save, what we spend and everything we use. And even taxed on taxes in some cases. Our Governments, both Federal and States, are
severely out of hand with their irresponsible spending of our hard earned taxpayer dollars and this is severely disadvantaging all Australians. One Nations policies are sensible and reduce taxes while reinvesting in industry to get this Nation back on its feet.
Q. In your opinion, why are you the best representative for Nicholls?
I believe that I would represent Nicholls with the greatest integrity and understanding of what our community truly wants from a Member of Parliament. I know how hard one needs to work to ensure food is put on the table and we have a roof over our heads. I have been able to watch and learn from my wife for what it takes to be an MP as she is one of our representatives in the Parliament of Victoria. She has been able to achieve a lot for North Victoria in the first half of her term so far and I know I will be able to deliver positive results for Nicholls also.
VALUED AT
With a minimum $50 transaction you go into the draw to win a pair of earrings valued at $1,799. One entry per person. Exclusive to Prouds Shepparton. $1,799
Sam Birrell National Party
Q. What do you believe are the main issues facing the electorate right now?
The ability of businesses to operate profitably and therefore employ people. There is too much government intervention in what they do. Irrigation water policy, industrial relations policy and energy are three areas where the current approach is not working for business.
Q. What is your opinion of the MurrayDarling Basin Plan, and open tender water buybacks, specifically?
I am fundamentally against open tender water buybacks and any attempt to remove further water from the consumptive pool. If it has a negative socio-economic impact (and it would), it can’t be allowed to happen.
Q. What policy do you believe would make the greatest difference to cost-of-living?
Policies that support business productivity and therefore reduce inflation, leading to interest rate reductions. An energy policy that really brings down the price of energy as opposed to the $250 reduction plan that actually resulted in $1,300 increases to power prices. That involves a steadier transition and more gas in the system.
Q. In your opinion, why are you the best representative for Nicholls?
I have the experience of a first term, am deeply engaged with the community and its needs and concerns and will possibly be part of a coalition government than can deliver for regional Australia and therefore Nicholls.
Jeff DavyAustralian Citizens Party
Q. What do you believe are the main issues facing the electorate right now?
The cost of living; housing affordability; lack of access to public health care, childcare and banking services due to closure of bank branches; and uncertainty for farmers, small businesses and industry due to tariff war and lack of public credit.
Q. What is your opinion of the MurrayDarling Basin Plan, and open tender water buybacks, specifically?
I have always opposed speculation in water and the separation of water rights from property rights. Water for food production and local communities should be prioritised rather than acquisition for profiteering or questionable environmental purposes.
Q. What policy do you believe would make the greatest difference to cost-of-living?
The Citizens Party’s policy to establish a public Aussie Post Bank to compete with the Big Four private banks, to make low-interest housing loans, fund health care and community infrastructure, and a National Housing Authority to massively increase public housing.
Q. In your opinion, why are you the best representative for Nicholls?
I’ve lived and worked in Nicholls my whole life and I love it! My party has done the hard yards to develop real policy solutions, and we courageously take on the corruption and incompetence of the major parties.
Saturday 3 May 9.00am to 1.00pm
Explore the best treks in Victoria’s High Country
VICTORIA’S High Country is home to some of the most stunning and diverse hiking trails in Australia. From challenging multi-day treks to shorter, scenic walks, the region offers something for every type of hiker. Whether you’re looking for panoramic mountain views, alpine meadows, or rugged peaks, these trails will lead you through some of the most beautiful landscapes in the country.
Notable treks in Victoria’s High Country include: Razorback Track to Mount Feathertop – Challenging,
KICKING GOALS... Orrvale Auskick is ready to begin season 2025. The centre welcomes participants from all schools in the area has successfully run an all-girl program for the last two years and is again looking to welcome kids who want to have a kick of the footy and a lot of fun.
Photo: Aaron Cordy
with panoramic views and rugged terrain.
Falls to Hotham Alpine Crossing – Challenging, featuring expansive landscapes and remote wilderness.
Mt Bogong via Staircase Spur Trail – Challenging, reaching Victoria's highest peak with breathtaking vistas.
Cathedral Ranges Northern Circuit – Challenging, offering stunning views from jagged peaks.
Mount Feathertop via Federation Hut – Moderate/ Challenging, a classic walk with ridge line views.
Bright to Wandiligong Walk (Wandi Walk) – Moderate,
with scenic forests and alpine landscapes.
Mount Buller to Mt Stirling Trail – Challenging, connecting two ski resorts with fantastic views.
Bon Accord Spur Walk – Moderate, a short scenic walk with impressive mountain views.
Grampians Peaks Trail – Challenging, a 13-day, 160 km adventure through the Grampians National Park.
Beechworth Gorge Walk – Easy, with serene views of the Ovens River and surrounding gorge.
Girls kicking goals at Orrvale
AUSKICKERS around the country will be dusting off their boots for another exciting season of fun, skill development and having a kick of the footy with friends and dreams of one day becoming AFLW and AFL stars.
Orrvale Auskick isn’t affiliated with any football club and boasts an inclusive and fun program that has seen a record number of girls tackling their love of Aussie Rule Football. Played on the oval of Orrvale Primary School on Fridays after school, Orrvale Auskick saw the number of female participants boom when AFL Auskick encouraged centres to run girl-only programs ahead of the 2023 season.
assembly to encourage everyone to come along for our first session, which was total chaos, and opened the option for a girl-only program if they wanted it.
“Two weeks later, we had 21 registered female participants on the oval, it was incredible. We had the second most female participants in the state at our little centre. That’s a massive achievement.”
The 2024 season was another massive coup for the girls of Orrvale Auskick, with 31 female participants. 3 shy of the boy's program.
School on Friday, May 2, at 3.30pm. Children don’t have to attend Orrvale to play Auskick there, with several participants each year coming from other schools. To sign up scan the QR Code and check them out on Facebook.
The new Orrvale Auskick coordinator at the time, Aaron Cordy, still didn’t have access to Play HQ and registration numbers when he heard the pitch from AFL Auskick to run girlonly programs for centres with the number to do so.
“Orrvale had about five girls the year before, including my daughter, and I thought it would be great if we had the numbers,” said Aaron.
“When we sorted out my access to Play HQ, despite only having about 25 players registered, eight of them were girls. I addressed the school
“Once the girls got a chance to run around on their own it changed the whole dynamic for them,” said Aaron.
GROW BIGGER
“Each week we’d watch their confidence grow, and we saw a lot of OA players sign up for the Superkick and holiday programs run by AFL Auskick. We may be a small centre, but what I do best is I'm there for fun, I act like a big goose, try to get everyone involved and hope they learn something along the way. I call it organised chaos. I’ve had some incredible volunteers and parent helpers that make it so much easier each week.”
Orrvale Auskick kicks off at Orrvale Primary
Pictured, Lexi Cordy smashing the marking pad held by one of the wonderful volunteers, Olivia Evans-Smith.
Birrell announces $33M in local commitments ahead of election
continued from front page
IN Shepparton, the headline pledge is a $20M contribution towards the Shepparton Stadium upgrade, matching Greater Shepparton City Council’s request. An additional $2M is earmarked for infrastructure upgrades: $1M for Stages 5 and 6 of the Welsford Street Upgrade and $1M to extend the shared path network from Victoria Park Lake to Shepparton Railway Station, continuing through to Greater Shepparton Secondary College.
Local sporting clubs also stand to benefit, with Mr Birrell committing $500,000 for the construction of a new toilet block at Stanhope Recreation Reserve to deliver modern, accessible changerooms for netball players, $550,000 for a new netball amenities block at Mooroopna Recreation Reserve, plus $525,000 to develop a standalone bike complex and dog park in Mooroopna.
In Nagambie, Mr Birrell joined Senator the Hon Bridget McKenzie on Friday to announce $6.3M to restore the historic Kirwans Bridge and reopen it to traffic. The bridge has remained closed since the October 2022 floods.
Since his election in 2022, Mr Birrell has secured $15M for the Seymour Community Wellbeing Hub and $11M for improvements at Victoria Park in Echuca, delivering a total of $26M to the electorate.
If re-elected, Mr Birrell has pledged to continue advocating for vital projects throughout Nicholls. Speaking at the stadium
funding announcement, Mr Birrell said he promised ongoing support for the project regardless of the outcome of the election.
“I have had some success in the past,” he said. “I was able to work with groups to get some funding from the Labor Government. I hope we can do that,” he said, highlighting projects he’d secured funding for this term. “Ideally, we win, and we can just deliver the funding straight up. But if we’re in government, this will be definitely funded.”
What’s been promised?
• $20M for Shepparton Stadium upgrades, matching Greater Shepparton City Council’s ask of the elected Federal Government. The project would require $8M from the State Government with Council investing the remaining $4M.
• $6.3M to restore historic Kirwans Bridge and reopen it to traffic in Nagambie
• $2M for Shepparton infrastructure projects, comprising $1M for Stages 5 and 6 of the Welsford Street Upgrade and $1M to extend the share path network Victoria Park Lake, to Shepparton Railway and through to Greater Shepparton Secondary College. Council would contribute $500,000 for the shared path expansion.
• $900,000 for renovations at Seymour RSL.
• $600,000 to upgrade Kilmore’s JJ Clancy Reserve
• $550,000 to construct a new netball amenity at Mooroopna Recreation Reserve.
• $525,000 to develop a stand-alone bike complex and dog park in Mooroopna.
• $500,000 to support the construction of
BUDGET PROMISES... Federal Member for Nicholls Sam
has unveiled a $33M election commitment ahead of the election aimed at boosting infrastructure, sport, and community facilities across the region. The funding, contingent on the Liberal Nationals Coalition returning to government, includes major investments in Shepparton, Nagambie, Mooroopna, Stanhope, and beyond.
a new toilet block at Stanhope Recreation Reserve to help deliver modern, accessible changerooms for netball players.
• $500,000 to upgrade the second oval and install AFL standard lighting at Kings Park Seymour. Mitchell Shire Council would contribute $150,000 towards the project.
• $450,000 to deliver accessibility upgrades to Echuca’s historic wharf, delivering a universal, all-access floating pontoon.
• $350,000 to support the Lockington community to expand community-based housing at Waterwheel Court.
• $150,000 to install CCTV cameras in the Echuca CBD.
• $100,000 to fund a permanent BMX and mountain bike jumps track in Kilmore TOTAL: $32,925,000
Early voting is open
Joinusforanexcitingpresentationaswe unveilourdedicatedGlobusgroupdeparture toEasternCanadaandanunforgettable CaribbeancruisewithNorwegianCruiseLine inMAY2026.
Discoverthehighlightsofexpertly curateditineraries,specialgroup benefitsandheardirectlyfrom ourteamofexperts.
Join us for an exciting presentation as we unveil our dedicated Globus group departure to Eastern Canada and an unforgettable Caribbean cruise with Norwegian Cruise Line in MAY 2026 Discover the highlights of expertly curated itineraries, special group benefits and hear directly from our team of experts
IF you’re unable to make it to the polls on election day on May 3, you can cast your vote at one of the early voting centres, which opened this week on Tuesday, April 22.
Early Voting Centres will be open over the next two weeks, excluding Anzac Day, until Friday, May 2. You can find local centres here: Shepparton, 95-97 Wyndham Street
Tuesday, April 22 to Thursday, April 24; 8.30am to 5.30pm
Saturday, April 26; 9am to 4pm
Monday, April 28 to Thursday May 1; 8.30am to 5.30pm
Friday, May 2; 8.30am to 6pm
Saturday, May 3; 8am to 6pm Shepparton Uniting Church, 134-140 Fryers Street
Tuesday, April 22 to Thursday, April 24; 8.30am to 5.30pm
Saturday, April 26; 9am to 4pm
Monday, April 28 to Thursday, May 1; 8.30am to 5.30pm
Friday, May 2; 8.30am to 6pm Kyabram Youth Club Hall, 7 Unwin St
Tuesday, April 22 to Thursday, April 24; 8.30am to 5.30pm
Saturday, April 26; 9am to 4pm
Monday, April 28 to Thursday, May 1; 8.30am to 5.30pm Friday, May 2; 8.30am to 6pm
EARLY VOTING ELIGIBILITY
You can vote early either in person or by post if on polling day you:
• are outside the electorate where you are enrolled to vote
• are more than 8km from a polling place
• are travelling
• are unable to leave your workplace to vote
• are seriously ill, infirm or due to give birth shortly (or caring for someone who is)
• are a person with disability (or caring for someone who is)
• are a patient in hospital and can't vote at the hospital
• have religious beliefs that prevent you from attending a polling place
• are in prison serving a sentence of less than three years or otherwise detained
• are a silent elector
• have a reasonable fear for your safety or wellbeing.
For more information, go to https://www. aec.gov.au/election/voting.htm#start
Birrell
Pictured at Kirwans Bridge from left: Trevor Forbes, Robyn Talylor, Darren Free, Senator the Hon Bridget McKenzie, Strathbogie Shire Council Mayor Cr Claire Ewart-Kennedy, and Federal Member for Nicholls Sam Birrell.
ELECTION TIME... If you can’t vote on election day, early voting opened in Shepparton on Tuesday, April 22. Pictured is one of the centres, located at 95-97 Wyndham Street, Shepparton (the former AutoBarn building). Photo: Aaron Cordy
Professionals
This project is critical to ensuring we can continue delivering world-class
care for locals
New housing underway for health workers in Shepparton
MEDICAL staff in Shepparton will have access to new, modern accommodation based at GV Health in Shepparton. A three-storey staff accommodation complex is under construction and aims to attract and retain medical professionals by providing purpose-built housing close to the hospital.
Once the keys are handed over, staff will benefit from 18-self-contained units, 15 single room flats and three
double flats, and a direct and secure connection to the hospital to ensure safety for staff on call after hours.
The project was announced 12 months ago and has been supported by a $10.2M State Government grant from the Regional Health Infrastructure Fund (RHIF). Minister for Health Infrastructure visited the site last week to see how construction is progressing.
“We know that location can make it difficult for
Backing hospital upgrades
By Deanne Jeffers
THE need for the completed GV Health redevelopment has been highlighted by Greater Shepparton City Council’s 2025/26 Australian Government advocacy documents, ‘Greater Shepparton, Greater Possibilities’, outlining the region’s top infrastructure priorities ahead of the Federal election.
The document underscores the need for a ‘Regionally Significant, Contemporary Public Health Service’, which includes completing the full Shepparton Hospital Redevelopment with an Integrated Cancer Centre, and an Institute of Applied Health Learning, to train medical professionals in the region and address workforce shortages.
In 2021, a new masterplan for GV Health’s Shepparton Hospital was developed, after significant portions of the existing facility were identified as being no longer fit-forpurpose and in need of replacement. The first stage of the GV Health Shepparton Hospital Redevelopment commenced in 2018 with major construction completed in 2024. Despite this, around 50 per cent of the site still needs to be redeveloped, and new capital funding is required to deliver this vital work.
Completing the full redevelopment is necessary to address critical gaps in the availability of contemporary care and treatment facilities for the Goulburn Valley and surrounding regions, particularly in relation to cancer care treatment, pathology
services, inpatient capacity, specialist clinics, ambulatory services and car-parking.
“A new funding commitment to complete construction of the full GV Health masterplan is vital to closing the gaps in care in our region. The accompanying Goulburn Valley Integrated Cancer Centre and Institute of Applied Health Learning will ensure our health care services meet the demand of our growing community,” Cr Sali said.
GV Health CEO, Matt Sharp, said the Goulburn Valley Institue of Applied Health Learning is a vital step to addressing critical workforce shortages.
“It will be a state-of-the-art facility for rural nursing and allied health education. It will also complement the existing Undergraduate education that extend into Postgraduate education as well,” said Mr Sharp.
“The proposal is that it would be co-located within the Health Education precinct, directly adjacent to Goulburn Valley Health.
“It’s an important piece of the puzzle that we need to continue to grow our services into the future. Because, as people would be aware, we’ve been fortunate to have some good capital programs developing our facilities in recent times, but we need staff to be able to run and operate those services now and into the future.”
Find out more by visiting https:// greatershepparton.com.au/advocacy/ federal2025/
regional health services like Goulburn Valley Health to retain and attract new staff, that is why this project is critical to ensuring we can continue delivering worldclass care for locals,” said Minister Horne. The project is being delivered by the Victorian Health Building Authority, alongside builder Hansen Yuncken. They commenced onsite in February 2025 and construction is scheduled to be completed in 2026.
ON SITE... The State Government is supporting Goulburn Valley Health to attract and retain medical staff with a new $10.2 million, three-storey accommodation complex now under construction near the hospital. Funded through the Regional Health Infrastructure Fund, the project is being delivered by the Victorian Health Building Authority and Hansen Yuncken. Minister for Health Infrastructure Melissa Horne visited the site last month to view progress. Photo: Supplied
Melissa Horne Minister for Health Infrastructure
ELECTION OPPORTUNITY… Greater Shepparton City Council launched its advocacy document this month, highlighting priority projects ahead of the Federal election on May 3, including investment into GV Health’s full redevelopment, which includes an Integrated Cancer Centre
Institute of Applied Health Learning. Pictured from left are Greater Shepparton City Council Cr Geoff Akers, CEO Fiona Le Gassick, Mayor Cr Shane Sali, Deputy Mayor Cr Anthony Brophy, Committee for Greater Shepparton CEO Linda Nieuwenhuizen and GV Health CEO Matt Sharp. Photo: Deanne Jeffers
Much
and genuine offer of employment. Ads for ‘Business Opportunities’, ‘Commission Only’ training courses and employment services should be submitted under those headings. Placing misleading ads is an offence against the fair trading legislation and all advertisements are subject to the publisher ’s approval.
Dressm aking Repairs Ironing
Phone Jenny 0422 568 792
BARGAIN BUYS
BROMELIADS in big pots just starting to flower and Agave plants x 2 $10 each Ph: 0427 319 059
GLASS coffee table $50 Ph: 0438 906 722
HISENSE TV 32in solid base USB and HDMI connections comes with remote good condition $20 Ph: 03 5831 3587
PRINTER cartridge black, Pixma brand 670PGBK XL fits Canon Ts5060 and others (purchased wrong size) $25 Ph: 0438 212 098
ALLTYPE GARAGE DOORS Supply, install & service. Garage doors, Automatic doors & Gate openers. Call Phil on 0418 577 280 FOR SALE
BEADS crystal, glass beads, bohemian pearls and great range of children's novelty beads. Many more for sun catchers and dream catchers, feathers, butterflies etc. Findings to suit everything. Craft fabric business providing lessons in a tourist town. Selling due to ill health. Text after 5.30pm Ph: 0402 187 530
PETS
PET ADVERTISERS PLEASE NOTE: As of July 2019, it is now a requirement under the Domestic Animals Act 1994, that an advertisement must include the unique source number (required from the Pet Exchange Register) of the seller and the individual microchip number of each cat or dog being sold or given away. These requirements apply to puppies and kittens as well as adult dogs and cats. For further information phone 5832 8900.
LAB BRITISH BULLDOG ROTTWEILER X BULLARAB
2 fem, 2 males V/Checked S/N: MB260571, M/C nos: 956000014732947, 4767687, 4767640, 1618370 $350 each Ph: 0497 364 747
GVL Football previews R4
My tipping round started pretty well on Friday. I was just eight points out with my Kyabram and Benalla prediction—tipping Kyabram by 113 points (they won by 105). I was only one point off in the Rochester and Euroa game, which ended in a 15-point win for the Tigers. I was just six points out in the Shepp Swans and Mooroopna game—the Swans won by 28 (I predicted 22). And finally, I was 16 points off with the Bears' win against United (they won by 74 points). On Saturday, I tipped Mansfield to win by 44 and they won by 31. And finally, to complete the straight six, I underestimated Echuca—they won by 161 points (I tipped 92).
Euroa v Seymour
The Magpies are not used to starting a season with three defeats, having been grand finalists in 2022 and finishing fourth in both of the past two seasons. Seymour finished the 2023 season with just two losses but began last year with nine defeats from their first ten games. They currently sit eighth and tenth on the ladder respectively, but this weekend one of the former Waranga North East League rivals will break their duck. Two former Murray Bushrangers—Seymour’s Nick Quigg and Euroa’s Cohen Paul—are among the players to watch. Quigg played two senior GVL games in 2021, six in 2022 (along with 14 for the Bushrangers), and then played 14 VFL games for GWS last year. His Round 2 return of 33 disposals, 10 marks, six clearances, four rebound 50s and four inside 50s in a 38-point loss is a sign of things to come. Paul played two senior games for Euroa in 2022 (along with 14 for the Bushrangers), having debuted with 11 senior games for the Magpies in 2023. Last weekend, he had 26 disposals and five rebound 50s, after opening the season with 33 disposals, five rebounds, and five hit-outs. Euroa has also been well served by Nic Burke, who had another 30-disposal game in the loss to Rochester, along with 7 rebound 50s. Scoring has been tough for both teams. Euroa’s leading goalkicker, Jett Trotter, has just four goals for the season, while Seymour's best return has come from Nathan Fowler (three goals). Prediction: Euroa by 11 points. Last time they met (LTTM), Round 9, 2024 – Euroa won by 10 points.
Tatura v Shepparton Swans
GWS midfielder to last year’s finals outfit. Cooper Hamilton joins a high-functioning midfield led by Mitch Trewhella, who’ll go head-to-head with Mansfield’s rising talent. Rochester, however, has only narrowly beaten Mooroopna and Euroa. They rely heavily on an experienced and miserly defence, but Dylan Gordon and Ryan O’Keefe will be tested by the GVL’s top aerialist, Ben Christopher. Christopher returned with four goals on Saturday, after kicking 24 in eight games last season. He did not play when the sides met midseason last year. Prediction: Rochester by 3 points. LTTM, Round 10, 2024 – Rochester won by 40 points.
Shepparton United v Kyabram
Back-to-back 160-point totals have the Bombers sitting atop the ladder, one of six unbeaten teams to start the season. What’s changed for Kyabram this year is the spread of goalkickers—Anthony Depasquale (10), Charlie Barnett (9), Tom Holman (7), Riley Ironside (6), and both Mick Mattingly and Kaine Herbert (5). Archie Watt, who has four goals from six-and-a-half quarters, missed last weekend with an ankle injury. Last season, only Depasquale (72), Mangan (28), and Herbert (20) cracked 20+ goals. The increased scoring depth presents a major challenge for United, who conceded 100 points for the first time this season in Friday’s loss to the Shepparton Bears. In 2023, they gave up 100+ points in 10 of their 18 games. Mick Mattingly set an unofficial ranking points record last week with 241 points against Benalla—42 touches, 10 marks (five inside 50), six tackles, nine clearances, and three goals (plus two behinds). United forward Kaedyn Napier will aim for better accuracy this week after a 1.4 return against the Bears. He and Kyle Clarke each took three inside 50 marks, but United had 17 fewer entries. Prediction: Kyabram by 59 points. LTTM, Round 15, 2024 – Kyabram won by 125 points.
Benalla v Echuca
Three games into his senior football career, Oliver Warburton already has two best-on-ground honours and is leading a strong resurgence from last year’s eighth-placed Swans. In the Good Friday game against Mooroopna, the fourth-generation star collected 30+ possessions for the third straight week. He debuted with 30 disposals and followed up with 32 against Seymour in Round 2. With fellow lively midfielders Tyreece Collison, Zac Alderton, and Zac Clohesy, the former Bushranger looks set to guide the Swans to a four-game winning streak. Last year, they managed three consecutive wins late in the season. The Swans also lost five games by less than a goal last year. A win against the struggling Bulldogs on Friday night will see the Swans remain unbeaten and close in on their seven wins from 2024. Tatura has had almost 100 fewer inside 50 entries than its three opponents this season, is -350 in disposals, and has been -40 in total marks in every game. On the flip side, the Bulldogs have four of the top rebound 50 players: Curtis and Christopher Ryan, Michael Archer, and Andrew Ciavarella. The Swans have dominated their front half, +45 for inside 50s and +50 for marks inside 50 across their three matches. Impressively efficient, they’ve lost two disposal counts despite being unbeaten and were beaten in clearances twice. Prediction: Shepparton Swans by 108 points. LTTM, Round 10, 2024 – Swans won by 97 points.
Rochester v Mansfield
This shapes as the match of the round. The Eagles are flying high with three straight wins, and the Tigers have carried over their strong 2024 form—both remain unbeaten. Statistically, these teams are almost identical—within two goals of each other in both points for and against. Matt King, Nick Gray, Mitch Lewis, and Callum Brown have made an immediate impact for Mansfield, while Rochester has added a former
Nathan Wright has been a shining light for Benalla in a bleak start to 2025, with 11 goals in three games. The Queenslander and his team have conceded 355 points already, and now face the reigning premier, who remains unbeaten. Things likely can’t get worse than the 2022 result—Benalla failed to kick a goal in a 157–4 loss. In 2023, they suffered 96- and 71-point defeats, and a 101-point loss last season. Nicholas Warnock provided a highlight last week with 19 disposals, 12 marks (five intercepts), and five tackles—his move to defence earning 130 ranking points. Before their 180-point Round 3 total, Echuca hadn't reached triple figures against Shepparton United or Euroa. They kicked an accurate 15.5 by halftime and held Tatura scoreless in the second term. They were more wasteful in the second half, returning 12.13. As usual, Echuca is sharing the load. Four players are in the top 20 goalkickers— Hugh Byrne (10 goals), Will Monahan, Cooper Barber, and Sam Edgar. Prediction: Echuca by 135 points. LTTM, Round 8, 2024 – Echuca won by 101 points.
Mooroopna v Shepparton Bears
Despite being winless, there have been positives for Mooroopna across three rounds. They haven’t conceded 100 points in any match, outscored the Swans in the second half last week, led Mansfield by 18 at quarter time in Round 1 (before scoring just one more goal), and won the second half against Rochester in Round 2. Shepparton, meanwhile, has sent a message after last year’s grand final loss to Echuca. They’ll get a shot at redemption in Round 5, a replay of the 2024 decider at Deakin Reserve. Lewis McShane is on track for a career-best year, with 15 goals in three weeks. He took five inside 50 marks on Friday against United, while Luke Smith, Tom Clurey, and Trent Herbert combined for nine. The Bears dominate the clearances, led by Ned Byrne (12), Ash Holland (10), Luke Smith and Xavier Stevenson (5 each). Prediction: Shepparton Bears by 48 points. LTTM, Semi-final, 2024 – Bears won by 64 points.
THE RETURN OF THE BONT: THE THINGS WE LEARNED
JAIDEN SCIBERRAS/SEN
THE long weekend was a treat for football fans everywhere.
From the Tiges taking down the undefeated Suns to the Pies running rampant in Brisbane, the Easter fixtures have been a nightmare for footy tipping enthusiasts all across the country.
With just the Easter Monday game remaining across the Easter weekend, here are the things we’ve learned from Round 6 thus far.
The return of the Bont
Easter Sunday saw the rise of one of the all-time greats in real time.
Marcus Bontempelli returned to AFL football as though he never left. After a preseason injury ruled the midfielder out for the first five games of the season, the Bont made his awaited return to an undermanned Bulldogs side, and didn’t he deliver.
30 disposals, two goals, 12 score involvements and eight clearances, the champion did not miss a beat as the Bulldogs demolished the Saints.
It’s hard to believe that even with Sam Darcy going down with what is expected to be a serious ACL concern, the Bulldogs were able to pile on 37 scores, their biggest score for the year. 3 votes on return, and he’s only just getting started.
The Pies are the real deal
They say age is just a number… Collingwood are more than just contenders in 2025. Questions were certainly asked of the club’s ability to compete after their 52-point Opening Round, and haven’t they answered with authority.
Away from home, against the undefeated reigning premiers, without key first team players including Lachie Schultz and Dan Houston, the Pies ran rampant, near doubling the Lions at every break while cleaning up all over the ground.
With +14 inside 50’s and +10 clearances, Collingwood were in cruise control against the supposed premiership favourites.
With Nick Daicos clearly
establishing himself as the best player in the game, it appears as though the sky is the limit for the AFL’s oldest side if their current form continues.
Five on the trot for Fly and his men, the Pies have stormed back to the pinnacle of the AFL. Look out.
Underestimation is a dangerous trap
There really is no such thing as an easy game of AFL football.
The West Coast Eagles have looked well below par in 2025, and despite remaining winless, were just a kick away from claiming victory against the Bombers.
Opening the game with five goals in the first term, it’s clear that the Eagles’ best football is much stronger than we’ve seen across the first six rounds.
Heading to Optus Stadium should never be considered an easy trip.
Beyond the Eagles, both Melbourne and Richmond picked up major scalps in their Round 6 matchups.
The Demons put together their best performance by some margin, playing a controlled brand and leading at every break to stand firm against the
Dockers.
Strong games from their veteran core and a stronger performance from within the coach’s box, Melbourne are still capable of a strong brand of footy.
As for the Tigers, very few saw that coming.
A major upset against the final remaining undefeated side… but you certainly can’t say they didn’t deserve it.
A mature performance, with their leaders in Nick Vlaustin, Tim Taranto and Tom Lynch playing their best games of the season to take down the Suns in stunning fashion.
You simply cannot rule anyone out of a contest before a ball is kicked.
George Hewett deserves far more credit
While the Blues haven’t played their best football this season, George Hewett most certainly has.
A shining light in each of the Blues’ contests this year, Hewett is not receiving anywhere near the plaudits he deserves.
Within Carlton’s 82-point win,
Hewett was absolutely everywhere, finding 34 disposals, 12 clearances, nine tackles and a goal to pile the misery on the Kangaroos.
Beyond this contest, Hewett has exploded in 2025. Leading from the front, the 29-year-old is averaging 30 disposals (+7 from last season), eight clearances (+3) and seven tackles (+3) a game, by far his best career numbers.
Looking across the AFL, Hewett currently ranks seventh in the competition for average disposals, fifth in the competition for clearances and fifth in the competition for tackles.
Talk about underrated.
It’s about time George receives some plaudits for his consistency this season. Keep this up, and a blazer could very well arrive in the near future.
North Melbourne are not where they should be
Many expected the Kangaroos to turn a leaf in 2025.
Conceding another 100-plus points, Alastair Clarkson simply cannot spark anything out of this North Melbourne list.
After signing Luke DaviesUniacke on an expensive long-term deal, marking yet another extensive contract, North Melbourne failed to provide any difficulty even for a struggling Carlton side.
With the list locked in long-term, is Clarkson the man to carry them through their already substantial rebuild?
It seems inevitable that Clarko will be under the microscope, as the Roos fell by 50+ points for the third consecutive game.
It isn’t unfair to say that after six straight seasons of negative records and just 16 wins since the start of the 2020 season, the Kangaroos’ rebuild should be showing notable signs of improvement.
All eyes on Clarkson.
Take your chances...
Port Adelaide claimed a massive win in Sydney, taking down the Swans by eight points in a nervy contest.
The contest was a lesson in taking
advantage of your chances in front of goal. 17 behinds for the Swannies including eight in the final term when the game was in the balance.
Hayden McLean will want his time again despite booting two goals, with the chance to win the game off his own boot in the latter stages of the game.
All of this came as Aaron Francis decided to become the best footballer of all time for a quarter.
With that being said, Port Adelaide should receive some credit for holding on. Pulling out to a strong lead and continuing to make the most of their opportunities was the difference on the night.
Expect plenty of goal-kicking practice in Sydney this week.
It’s a big week for the Dockers Where to now for Fremantle?
Entering the season, the Dockers would have sat comfortably inside the eight in a huge percentage of ladder predictions.
You can understand why; one of the competition’s best midfields led by Caleb Serong, an up-and-coming star in Josh Treacy leading the line, top offseason recruitment in the form of Shai Bolton and another year of growth for their young core.
Yet after six games, Fremantle sit 3-3, beating only Richmond, West Coast and an undermanned Bulldogs side.
This weekend’s loss to the Demons, who entered the clash at 0-5 without Steven May, Jake Lever and Bailey Fritsch, leaves more questions than answers.
Where did it go wrong?
-66 in disposals, -5 in clearances while conceding 16 goals from 56 inside 50’s, Melbourne were simply better – a statement that is yet to be said in any other contest this season.
All of this occurred with Shai Bolton playing his best game in purple, Hayden Young and Sean Darcy back in the side and only a handful of first team players absent.
With the Crows to come, next week’s lead up will be incredibly telling for the fate of the Fremantle Dockers in 2025.
Noah Anderson of the Suns leads the team off the field after their loss to Richmond in Round 6 at Marvel Stadium. Photo: JAMES ROSS/AAP IMAGE
