The Adviser 1762

Council decides on Dhurringile Split vote

By Deanne Jeffers

GREATER Shepparton City Council will not proceed with purchasing the former Dhurringile Prison site, after voting in a fourway split to withdraw its tentative Expression of Interest to the Right of Refusal Process. The motion came after the councilcommissioned Dhurringile Estate Options Assessment Report by independent consultants Urban Enterprise was made public on Thursday, April 17.

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THE world-first LEGO Star Wars: The Exhibition has officially landed at Melbourne Museum, inviting visitors on an immersive journey through the Star Wars Galaxy, brick by brick.

Opening on Star Wars Day, May the Fourth, this unique experience, created by Shepparton’s-own Ryan ‘Brickman’ McNaught, is the largest ever collection of life-sized LEGO Star Wars models ever assembled.

Raised in Shepparton, Ryan has gone on to become the only LEGO® Certified Professional in the Southern Hemisphere and one of just 21 globally. His latest project is his most ambitious yet: a worldfirst exhibition featuring over 8 million LEGO bricks, more than 25,000 hours of building, and life-sized recreations of some of Star Wars’ most iconic scenes.

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YOU CAN TEACH IN SHEPPARTON

The future is calling, and we need your help to educate the next generation. With secondary teaching scholarships, employment-based degrees, and a range of supports to help get you into the classroom, there’s never been a better time to become a teacher in Victoria.

Rallying for Hospice Care

MORE than 110 riders and more than 40 cars are set to head off this weekend on the 29th GV Hospice Rallye on Saturday and Sunday, May 3-4. The annual fundraiser has raised more than $1.1M to date, ensuring GV Hospice Care can operate 24-hours a day, providing a compassionate and vital end of life service for the community.

GV Hospice Rallye Committee Chair Kelvin Maude expressed excitement over the upcoming rally and sincere thanks to the community for their unwavering support.

“Every year we see incredible generosity from those who participate in the rally, donate to the raffle or buy raffle tickets. GV Hospice is a support service close to many people’s hearts,” said Kelvin.

“With a full field of 44 cars, and more than 100 people, we hope to top last year’s total of $84,000. We’ve received around 60-odd donations or services from local businesses for our online auction, and thanks to support from our partners, we’ve been able to keep participation fees low, keeping them consistent over the years with help from our presentation partners.”

GV Hospice President Jeanette Powell said thanks to the support of the GV Hospice Rallye and other community groups, it has been able to support increased demand for its service, seeing a 64 per cent increase from an average of 91 patients two years ago to 141 today.

“We could not provide our service the way we do without organisations like this,” said Jeanette. “Over the years they have raised more than $1 million, and they do it every year. We are so very grateful. It allows us to be available 24-hours a day, 365 days a year, to provide our after-hours service and be able

Every year we see incredible generosity from those who participate in the rally, donate to the raffle or buy raffle tickets. GV Hospice is a support service close to many people’s hearts

GV Hospice Rallye Committee Chair Kelvin Maude

to supply specialist equipment to those who need it, free of charge.”

Beyond being a perpetual fundraiser for a critical community service, the GV Hospice Rallye is a great deal of fun, sending drivers in cars old, new and unique through a mystery three-stage navigational exercise. All that Kelvin could reveal is that the motorists will be staying at the picturesque Holmesglen at Eildon, and the dinner costume theme this year is ‘Dream Occupation’.

The 29th GV Hospice Rallye will depart the Museum of Vehicle Evolution (MOVE) Museum on Saturday, May 3 at 8am. Participants will collect their gear from the Aussie Hotel Friday night, and you’re invited to drop by and buy raffle tickets, which will be drawn Saturday night.

For more information or to purchase raffle tickets, please contact Kelvin Maude on 0418 992 270 or email kelvin.maude@gmail.com

Riverlinks & Human Symphony present MZAZA: THE BIRTH & DEATH OF STARS PART OF THE 2025 CABARET SERIES

World music favourites MZAZA have created a theatrical musical experience like no other in collaboration with some of Australia’s leading theatre-makers. Tickets include a share platter at the table Friday 9 May | 7:30pm

Riverlinks

Riverlinks & Jade Hurley Productions presents JADE HURLEY AN AFTERNOON DELIGHT

The undisputed “KING” of COUNTRY and ROCK ‘N’ ROLL music in Australasia.

Tuesday 13 May | 2:00pm

Riverlinks Eastbank, 70 Welsford St. Shepparton

Riverlinks & Wordsworth Productions present MELBOURNE COMEDY SHOWCASE

Get ready to laugh out loud with the Melbourne Comedy Showcase!

A line-up featuring some of the best Melbourne has to offer.

Saturday 24 May | 7:30pm

Riverlinks Eastbank, 70 Welsford St Shepparton

Riverlinks presents ANPA PLAYING FOR PLEASURE

Enjoy wonderful music on a magnificent Steinway piano!

Sunday 25 May | 2:00pm

Riverlinks Eastbank, 70 Welsford St. Shepparton

Riverlinks presents MAY CUSHION CONCERT WITH GREATER SHEPPARTON COLLEGE MUSIC STUDENTS

Cushion Concerts are a relaxed and inexpensive introduction to music and performance for all ages. Best of all they are an avenue for some of the region’s talent to perform without the pressure of being on the ‘big

Tuesday 27 May | 10:30am

Riverlinks Eastbank, 70 Welsford St. Shepparton

RALLYE... The 29th GV Hospice Rallye promises another weekend of fun and countryside driving, setting off May 3-4. Pictured are Ian and Jeanette Powell, Kelvin Maude, Glenn Young, Min Innes Iron, Bill Parsons and Steven Tricarico at MOVE, where the rally will depart. Contact Kelvin Maude to donate or purchase raffle tickets. Photo: Deanne Jeffers

LOOKING FOR AN UNFORGETTABLE CRUISE? THROUGH EASTERN CANADA AND THE CARIBBEAN!

Flight Centre and Globus Group invite you to hear from dedicated experts presenting highlights and itineraries of Norwegian Cruise Lines’ May 2026 cruises.

Noble Monks, 120 – 126 Maude Street, Wednesday 7th May @ 6pm.

Light refreshments will be served. Book now –Spaces are limited ! Phone 5821 2044.

GHOST CAMPING CONUNDRUM

Peak bodies are calling for urgent reform to address ‘Ghost Camping’ impacting regional tourism. Caravan & Residential Parks Victoria is again calling on the State Government to address problems with its free camping policy and expand the initiative to include regulated parks to reduce the growing issue.

In January, the Herald Sun reported that as many as 10 of the 24 sites at Corringle Foreshore

Campground (near Marlo) were unoccupied despite being booked out.

Across Easter and the April school holidays, many state government free camp sites were again empty, with campers unable to book and sites going unused, resulting in significant economic losses for regional communities and frustration among genuine campers.

Caravan & Residential Parks Victoria also highlighted that against the allure of ‘free’ camp sites, private tourist parks have been operating in an unfair market, forced by the government to compete with free, unregulated camp sites, eroding private park occupancy rates, revenue and profitability.

ROARING HIGHLIGHTS IN STORE FOR 48TH HISTORIC WINTON

THE 48th Historic Winton will roar to life on Saturday and Sunday, May 24-25 at Winton Motor Raceway, celebrating a century of motoring history. Highlights include an all-Mini race honouring 90-year-old Mini legend Ted Brewster, with racers from five states competing for the Ted Brewster Trophy. A Mk II Jaguar once driven by Sir Stirling Moss and the Bumblebee for MND Holden Panel Van will be on display. New for 2025, the parade Lap runs on both Saturday and Sunday. Presented by the Austin 7 Club, Historic Winton features vintage car and bike racing, displays, market stalls, and open paddock access.

Trackside tickets and camping can be booked here: https://www.ticketebo.com.au/historicwinton/48th-historic-winton-2025

Preceding Historic Winton, the Benella Historic Vehicle Tour taking place on Friday, May 23 is the not to be missed! For more details go to: www.enjoybenalla.com.au/listing/benallahistoric-vehicle-tour-benalla/

‘Big plans’ ahead as Wilmot Rd enters new era

Year 6 students at Wilmot Rd Primary were super proud to don school shirts of their own design this term – the Class of 2025 polo will serve as a keepsake of their final year of primary school.

It’s one of a series of initiatives by new Principal Kirsten Dickins, who has been a whirlwind of activity since her appointment to lead Wilmot Rd this year.

“As the senior students in our school, it’s important to celebrate their identity as leaders,” she says.

“That’s something special.”

SHEPPARTON ROAD POLICING BLITZ YIELDS SERIOUS CONCERNS

OPERATION Night Beatle in Shepparton, conducted by the Highway Patrol between March 30 and April 5, revealed alarming levels of impaired driving. Over the course of the week, 44 roadside drug tests were conducted, with 15 drivers testing positive for illicit substances, roughly one in three.

A 54-year-old man was caught with a blood alcohol level nearly three times the legal limit, while a 21-year-old was found speeding at 111 km/h in a 60 km/h zone.

Stopping and checking 77 vehicles the operation also resulted in:

• One disqualified driver detected

• Two learner drivers allegedly driving without a fully licensed supervisor

• Four vehicles impounded

• Eight defect notices issued

• 24 penalty notices issued for traffic-related offences

• 22 brief offences detected

• Cloned number plates detected and removed from one vehicle

These findings highlight the growing need for stringent enforcement to address impaired and high-risk driving behaviours, which continue to threaten road safety. Police are reminding the public that drug and alcohol testing will remain a focus across the region.

SHEPPARTON PLANE INCIDENT

A pilot was involved in an incident at Shepparton Airport last week when his plane nose-dived into the runway after landing. The pilot had landed their Piper Aztec shortly after 4pm on April 23 when the nose wheel suddenly gave way. A bystander saw the incident and called Triple Zero, with emergency services on site shortly after. No one was injured, but the plane sustained some damage.

“big plans” to benefit from a new early learning centre being built next door, Kirsten has a long “to-do” list on her desk.

“The centre will be wonderful for our families,” Kirsten says. “I see our students involved in reading to the little ones and helping in their transition to school.”

From buying new soccer goal posts last week to

SCAN HERE TO READ FULL STORY

POLICY PROBLEM... The State Government’s free camping initiative is causing problems for the state’s tourism industry according to a peak body. Pictured is the campground at Tidal River. Photo: Sgroey, CC

Watts on 0438 678 025 to learn more or to request a permission form.

CALL FOR ARTISTS

The Tatura Rotary Community Art Show is calling for artists to exhibit their work. Whether you are just starting out or have years of experience the Tatura Rotary Community Art Show provides a fantastic opportunity to exhibit your work.

RSL INITIATIVE HONOURS THE FALLEN

TATURA RSL Sub-Branch has launched a heartfelt initiative to recognise the service of local veterans buried at Tatura Cemetery. The idea was sparked by Tatura Cemetery Trust Chair Steve O’Toole, who had seen similar tributes — small Australian flags marking the graves of servicemen and women — at cemeteries such as Rochester. He shared the concept with RSL committee member Mal Watts, who developed a formal proposal. With a few modifications, the Trust approved it unanimously.

Using an aerial photo and on-ground mapping, Mal has begun identifying the graves of ex-service personnel and marking them with flags. So far, five flags have been placed, including one for Thomas Henrey Deane, a decorated Vietnam War Veteran and RSL Member, who passed in May 2024. Mal estimates there are at least 100 such graves at the cemetery, hoping to honour “anyone who has worn a uniform.” He explained that this initiative is to recognise and bring focus to veterans graves on and around commemoration dates like Anzac Day.

The annual art show usually has around 400 pieces on display and sell over 20 per cent. All work displayed must be an original done by the artist exhibiting. Applications close Friday, May 16.

This show is held over the long Kings Birthday weekend at the beginning of June. It begins with a Gala Opening event the evening of Friday, June 5. This year’s entertainment includes stars of the Australian Opera and Heather Ewart of Backroads fame, who will open the show that will run over the rest of the long weekend.

Entry forms and information are available under the Art Show tab on the website: www. taturarotary.org.au. Alternatively, email info@ taturarotary.org.au

DUTCH REMEMBRANCE DAY

This Sunday, May 4, 4pm, at Emerald Bank under the windmill, there will be a brief ceremony for Dutch Remembrance Day. Also known as Dodenherdenking (Remembrance of the Dead), is a National Day of Mourning and remembrance in the Netherlands. It commemorates the victims of World War II and all subsequent conflicts and peace-keeping missions involving the brave Dutch citizens.

Families with loved ones buried at Tatura Cemetery who would like them included in the program are encouraged to contact Mal

grand opening of Irena Car e, a newly provider, in Shepparton. showcase our commitment to supporting through our specialized services, including of the art sensory room.

“Workingasadisabilitysupportworker hasgivenmylifeadeepersenseof purpose.Helpingothersliveeachday tothefullestbringsmegenuine happinessandfulfillment.This experiencehastransformedmeand changedmyperspectiveontheworld forthebetter.IrenaCareandtheteam haveplayedacrucialroleinshaping meintothepersonIamtoday.”

After the conflict, many Dutch settled in Australia, and local Edwin Scholl is inviting anyone with or without Dutch heritage to join him on Sunday, May 4, 4pm, at Emerald Bank for two minutes of silence to remember those who tragically lost their lives.

GRAND OPENING

We are thrilled to invite you to the grand opening of Irena Car registered NDIS provider, in Shepparton. Our grand opening event will showcase our commitment to supporting individuals with disabilities through our specialized services, including access to our state of the art sensory room.

“Myparentstaughtmethevaluesof respect,courage,andaprofoundlove formycommunity.Iamdeeply gratefultotheparticipants&Irena Careteam,asmyexperienceshave exceededmyteachings.“

APRIL, 2025 | AT 11 AM STREET SHEPPARTON.

learning, and community engag ement. tour our facilities, explore our sensory team of professionals who are passionate impact in the lives of our participants ROVIDED, AND WE WOULD BE DELIGHTED TO HAVE MARK THIS SPECIAL OCCASION.

“Iwantedtobeasupportworker becausethosethatIhelpcouldbeme orsomeoneclosetome.It’saslo fulfillingwhenIknowIcanmake positiveimpacttosomeone’slife“

TO CELEBRATING THIS MILESTONE WITH YOU.

NOW OPEN GRAND OPENING

based activities. Flexible environment with quite zones. Supports individuals with ASD, ADHD, sensory processing. Disorder (SPD), and other disabilities. Choice based approach to reduce anxiety.

THURSDAY | 24 APRIL, 2025 | AT 11 AM 630B WYNDHAM STREET SHEPPARTON.

Cognitive development for clients with down syndrome.

Join us for a day of celebration, learning, and community engag ement. You will have the opportunity to tour our facilities, explore our sensory room, and meet our dedicated team of professionals who are passionate about making a positive impact in the lives of our participants LIGHT REFRESHMENTS WILL BE PROVIDED, AND WE WOULD BE DELIGHTED TO HAVE YOU WITH US TO MARK THIS SPECIAL OCCASION. WE LOOK FORWARD TO CELEBRATING THIS SIGNIFICANT MILESTONE WITH YOU.

FLYING TRIBUTE... Tatura Cemetery Trust and Tatura RSL Sub-Branch have embarked on a mission to honour graves of people who have served. Pictured is Trust Chair Steve O’Toole and RSL Committee Member spearheading the initiative, Mal Watts. They are pictured with Vietnam Veterans gravesite, Thomas Henrey Deane. Photo: Deanne Jeffers

SCHOOL’S back, but the holidays were packed with action across the region.

One standout was the Pop-Up Museum: Australian Dinosaurs, Megafauna and

Animals, held at Shepparton Library on Tuesday, April 8. Delivered in partnership with Museums Victoria, the hands-on experience proved a real hit with families.

Pictured is 7 year old William Burley.

7-year-old Havana Jecs is pictured feeling some fossils on display. loved getting hands on with the fossils.

Pictured is 6-year-old Hudson Moran.

Letters to the Editor

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

TAKING NICHOLLS FOR GRANTED

Dear Editor and voters of Nicholls.

The seat of Nicholls and the region have been taken for granted by the Nationals and the Coalition, who believe themselves entitled to voter loyalty despite doing little for the region. While Labor has all but abandoned the voters at both the Federal and State levels.

National member Sam Birrell is nice enough and certainly loves showing up to community events, but what has he done for the region for the last four years?

More importantly, what does a vote for Birrell and the Nationals mean for Nicholls?

Nicholls is a multicultural community. It has grown and prospered that way for over 80 years, building family and communities and enriching the fabric of this great region. This vast region relies on skilled workers from overseas to work in our orchards, manufacturing industries, and play a crucial role in our medical sector.

With this in mind, we want voters to look at their neighbours and coworkers and see what multicultural people bring to Nicholls and what voting for the Nationals and the Coalition will cost the community, which means another four years of no fundamental and assertive action in terms of bringing higher professional education for the youths closer to their homes and families, more and better healthcare opportunities and create more and equal employment opportunities for all.

It is time to move away from the two-party system. It is time to shift our votes away from parties that take us for granted and ignore us by voting for a third party. Only by making Nicholls a marginal seat will we see true growth in the region.

So this election, let us show Labor and the Coalition that Nicholls matters and should no longer be taken for granted by voting against the

two party system.

Kind regards, Dr Fayyaz Akhtar

President; Pakistani-Australian association of Goulburn Valley Inc.

TIME FOR SERIOUS LEADERSHIP

Dear Sir,

I CANNOT be alone in being quietly terrified at the state of Australia’s defences.

First, it was the foolhardy 99-year lease of the Port of Darwin to the Chinese. But who really thought it would stop there? We now have Chinese warships prowling our coastline at will and a Russian air base proposed for Papua, almost on our doorstep.

The Chinese and the Russians know that Australia is the weak link in its AUKUS security partnership with the UK and US, that they would like to see gone.

We are told that Australia has just 20 days of fuel supply and that our navy vessels must rely on NZ and US tankers to re-fuel, because two navy supply ships are out of action.

The recent Labor budget failed miserably to provide adequate defence spending.

Instead, it continues to make endless promises of a billion here and a billion there on welfare and pet social projects, resulting in an increasingly enfeebled and infantilised society. I doubt we could defend ourselves, even if we wanted to.

Prime Minister Albanese, and Ministers Wong and Marles are looking increasingly out of their depth in an increasingly unstable world. It is time for some serious leadership if we want to ensure Australia’s future security, freedom and prosperity.

Yours sincerely, Edwina McFarland Chesney Vale

Session

Session

Emergency Services Tax

I recently spoke in Parliament about the Victorian Government’s plan to introduce a new Emergency Services Tax that will increase the tax burden on Victorians, hitting primary producers particularly hard. The bill to introduce the levy has faced strong opposition from a diverse group of stakeholders

from the Victorian Farmers Federation to Rural Councils Victoria. The Nationals have strongly opposed the levy which has now been temporarily halted in the Upper House and have launched a “Scrap the Tax” campaign aimed at pressuring the government into withdrawing the bill from Parliament permanently.

Shocking local roads

Recently, Stewart Edgar from Sutherland Transport reached out for me to join him in his truck to experience firsthand what he experiences on a daily basis in his workplace trying to navigate our appalling and unsafe roads.

Stewart and I have also called on the Minister for Roads and Road Safety to have a tour because you truly need to experience this firsthand to understand the level of neglect and danger people like Stewart encounter every day.

The government must provide more funding for our unsafe and neglected regional roads immediately.

Supporting local sport

It was fantastic to attend the Shepparton Athletics Club’s Presentation Night earlier this month and present some awards. Congratulations to all of the award recipients and a special congratulations to Nadine Edwards announced as the Club Person of the year.

With the football and netball season well and truly underway I wish players the best of luck and encourage everyone to get along to a few games to cheer on your club.

Superstar volunteers

It was great to recently bump into some passionate young members of the Australian Air League Shepparton Squadron selling Anzac Day Badges at Riverside Plaza. They did such a great job with plenty of enthusiasm and lots of smiles and were very helpful in my selection of badges. It is so wonderful to see children supporting such a wonderful cause.

With National Volunteer Week approaching I would like to acknowledge and thank all our incredible local volunteers who give so much to make our region a great place to live.

‘How

can

I not?’

A story in memory of Sgt Stanley ‘Dick’ Watkins

By Natasha Fujimoto

AS respectful crowds once again gathered last Friday to honour the legendary ANZACs, reflecting on the vastness of their collective legacy and sacrifice, it was also a time to remember the individuals whose personal experiences and tales of unfathomable courage and bravery allow us to more deeply grasp the true weight of what was given.

In keeping with the spirit of remembrance, and to pay homage to the vivid memory of his uncle, Sergeant Stanley Earl Watkins, known to all as Dick, Kyabram local Greg Watkins recently travelled to Papua New Guinea with his partner, Carli Lappin, to visit his uncle’s grave at Lae War Cemetery. Sgt Watkins was killed by a Japanese sniper in the jungles of Papua New Guinea in 1943.

The journey held great personal and familial significance for Greg, who had always intended to make the pilgrimage with his late father, Ron - Sgt Watkins’ younger brother by 13 years. It was not only a long-awaited tribute but also an opportunity to better understand the man behind the stories, stories Greg came to know through his uncle’s remarkably preserved war diary and letters sent home during his service.

“I’ve read some of the letters Dick wrote while posted in North Africa, and it’s amazing how you get a sense of someone from the pages of a letter,” Carli said.

“And it’s clear to me that Dick must have been a very good footballer, as all the Watkins boys were. The sense I got of him from his letters was that he was pretty laid-back. His letters were very relaxed, considering the circumstances he was in.”

By all accounts a soldier of courage and a leader who commanded respect, Dick’s story is one not

easily forgotten.

Born in 1918, Dick was the third of twelve children to Ada and Lloyd Watkins, who farmed in the small Strathbogie communities of Tamleugh and Caniambo. Known for their stoicism, humour and hard work, the family sent the eldest four of eight sons to war - George, Lloyd Jr, Arthur and, of course, Dick. Norm, the eldest son, stayed to manage the farm, as was custom during the time. All the brothers were strapping lads who loved their cricket and football.

With the cataclysmic eruption of world war, Dick, at just 21 years of age, enlisted in November 1939 in the Second Australian Imperial Force (AIF). Joining the 2/7th Battalion, Dick was destined to fight in some of the most brutal campaigns of the war.

It was during his initial posting to North Africa that Dick wrote many of his letters home to his parents and younger siblings, including to his younger brother Ron (Greg’s father).

“In the letters, Dick wrote about everyday, ordinary things. He wrote about often playing footy and cricket between the battalions and about the various local country lads he ran into. Often in his letters, Dick would ask about the farm back home, wanting to know what was being planted.

“There was no sense of fear, trepidation or any mention of the war, perhaps this was censorship, or perhaps this was just true to Dick’s character,” Carli said.

From North Africa to the Battle of Crete in 1941, Dick, along with thousands of Allied soldiers, was left stranded, fleeing to the Cretan hills for safety after the invasion of German forces. Relying on locals for his survival, the young soldier spent eight months in hiding, and it was here that

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he wrote his war diary. When it was finally time for Dick to flee the island, he left his diary in the hands of a local who promised to send it on to Dick’s mother, Ada. Miraculously, Dick’s diary found its way home.

Returning to Australia in 1942, Dick married his wife, Rita Eileen, but his honeymoon was shortlived. Volunteering to re-enter the theatre of war (according to the criteria of the day, he was not required to do so), Dick was sent to Papua New Guinea, moving through the ranks by this time from Corporal to Sergeant. When asked why he wanted to return, he simply said, “How can I not?”

Leading his men with the same kind of courage replete throughout his story, Sgt Stanley ‘Dick’ Watkins was tragically killed in action by a Japanese sniper towards the end of August 1943 while bravely leading his men in a skirmish. Detailed in the book The Fiery Phoenix: The Story of the 2/7 Australian Battalion 1939–1946 by W.P. Bolger and J.G. Littlewood, Dick’s body was “… located by a patrol and acted as a covering force while Padre Pattie O’Keefe organised the burial detail,” on September 8, 1943. Dick was buried in the location where he fell, only later to be exhumed and reinterned at the Lae War Cemetery.

Greg’s (and Carli’s) journey to Papua New Guinea, coinciding with ANZAC Day, is of monumental significance not only to the memory of his brave uncle but to his father’s family, who, like so many, endured the indescribable loss of a loved one during war. With a resonance particularly poignant during national remembrance, Carli said:

“Visiting Lae is about paying homage, and it’s not just paying homage to Dick, that is the main thing, but for Greg, it’s about paying homage to his

dad and his family.

“We’ve often talked about what it must have been like for Ron’s mum and dad, with stories of how Ada would be stricken with terror every time a postie walked up the road with a letter. So, the trip was also about paying homage to all of that history and wanting to keep it alive. It’s about honouring the past and recognising the sheer courage and the ability to withstand discomfort as they stoically, ‘just got on with it,’” Carli said.

LEST WE FORGET... Sgt Stanley Earl Watkins, affectionately referred to as Dick (pictured), was both extraordinary in his courage, fighting in multiple theatres of war during WWII and representative of the many brave young men who made the ultimate sacrifice for King, country, and way of life. Retracing, in part, his uncle’s footsteps, who was struck by a Japanese sniper’s bullet in Papua New Guinea in 1943, local Greg Watkins and his partner Carli travelled to the Lae War Memorial to visit Dick’s grave for the first time. They have shared his remarkable story with The Adviser , through his war diary and letters sent home from abroad. Through these historic first-hand accounts, we gain a vivid sense of this fine young man’s stoic personality and selfless courage. Photo: Supplied

Council decides on Dhurringile

continued from front page

WHILE the report recommends the purchase, highlighting that the long-term benefits outweigh the financial risks, council management

recommendation was that council withdraw its EOI, but support where possible any suitable private investment opportunities that could benefit the region.

Before the motion was put forward, Cr Geoff Akers declared a conflict of interest, making him ineligible to vote on the matter and exited the

The motion was forwarded by Cr Sam Spinks and seconded by Cr Anthony Brophy, who cited cost issues are being the main reason for their dissent. Cr Spinks said the issue had snowballed and given the community false hope of the former

“At no point has council had an aspiration, a direction, or a strategic justification to pursue the purchase of a new asset,” said Cr Spinks.

“The initial figures that have come back is that it’s going to cost $2.5 million to buy, another $3 million to repair the heritage buildings that are there, $400,000 ongoing to maintain the property and then miscellaneous other costs,” she said.

Cr Anthony Brophy agreed with Cr Spinks, saying costs would ultimately be passed on to

“Unknown costs are in the purchase, in maintenance, all the upgrades and that we have here, and is the state government really cost shifting the responsibility potentially on to local

“Some are saying it’s a gold mine, but ... it

Cr Fern Summer and Cr Rod Schubert, whose ward includes the Dhurringile Estate, spoke against the motion, saying the opportunity to purchase the historic site was an opportunity not to be missed and that backlash from the community would be severe.

“If we do not proceed with the EOI process and allow Dhurringile to go to open market, it will likely become unaffordable,” said Cr Summer.

“I might remind councillors that we are not a profit-driven entity. If profit was our focus, the only thing left standing would be the sale yards, because everything else runs at a financial loss.”

Cr Summer wanted to proceed with the purchase, highlighting opportunities in tourism, equine and more at the site. She also highlighted its proximity to Tatura Park, which would benefit major events like International Dairy Week, while adding heritage value to Greater Shepparton.

“There’s plenty of money in equine that is untapped with our current resources,” said Cr Summer. “We are quite happy to fund upgrades to an existing basketball stadium, but not invest in basic infrastructure for a more lucrative sport.”

“I’m really struggling to understand why we go against the recommendation in our consultant report and sincerely hope it’s not because equine is predominantly a female sport.”

Cr Rod Schubert said council needs to take more time to consult with community.

“Some local residents have stated to me that ... if Dhurringile were in Shepparton, council would have voted to express an interest and or purchase Dhurringile. I want to prove them wrong by opposing the motion today.”

“I am not here to argue that we need to purchase Dhurringile or spend any further monies, rather, I urge you to heed the advice of our independent consultants to look into the merit of the use cases, engage with the community, private and public stakeholders, to take our time to make this decision.”

“Let us also pay attention to how the

NO BID... Greater Shepparton City Council will not proceed with purchasing the former Dhurringile Prison site, after voting in a four-way split vote against the progressing its tentative Expression of

community must feel that they, at best, received the uploaded Urban Enterprises Report on Thursday from the Council website and on Tuesday we move on the matter.

“That is effectively, given the Easter holidays, less than one working day to digest what the report has found and what we should do. Realistically we need six to 12 months to explore the merit of all options.”

Cr Schubert also said it has been less than four months since council decided to investigate the potential purchase. “I cannot see any procedural justice and my constituents cannot see it either.”

Cr Threlfall and Cr Wickam spoke against the motion, while Cr Eddy and Cr Sali spoke for the motion. Mayor Sali said his position was simply economical.

“I feel at this particular point ... we shouldn’t be entertaining assets that come with a significant cost, and adding those assets to our books when we’re trying to upgrade and maintain our current assets across our municipality,” he said.

Council voted, with Cr Sali, Cr Brophy, Cr Spinks and Cr Eddy voted for the motion. Cr Schubert, Cr Threlfall, Cr Summer and Cr Wickham voted against.

Because there was a tie, Mayor Sali got the final call, and the motion passed. Many people in the gallery left following the vote, frustrated by the outcome.

Representatives from Destination Goulburn Valley, an independent tourism advocacy group, were amongst those that left. DGV Chair, Eugenie Stragalinos, expressed disappointment over the decision.

“We would have hoped that Council would have wanted to maintain a position at the negotiating table with the State Government as to the future of the site,” she said. “There was no financial commitment required from Council at this time, just a commitment to do some further work as recommended by their own report.”

Following the vote, Cr Sali assured the community that council would continue to advocate for the future of the former prison site.

Canada and the Caribbean! Discover your next great escape

DREAMING of an adventure? Shepparton Flight Centre is calling interested people to come along to an exclusive information session for an upcoming international tour opportunity in May 2026.

Shepparton Flight Centre’s knowledgeable team will deliver a presentation on Wednesday, May 7, from 6pm at Noble Monks (120-126 Maude Street, Shepparton),

unveiling their Cosmos group departure to Eastern Canada & USA and an unforgettable Caribbean cruise with Norwegian Cruise Line.

Set to depart in 12 months' time, attendees will discover highlights of expertly curated itineraries, special group benefits and hear directly from their team of experts.

The information session is free to attend, and light

READY FOR ADVENTURE?... Shepparton Flight Centre invites you to an exclusive information session about an exciting international tour opportunity set for May 2026. Photo: Supplied

refreshments will be provided, however places are strictly limited. Book now to avoid missing out. RSVP by May 2, by phoning Hannah or Jill on 5821 2044.

Saddle up for Pacing for Pink

FUNRAISER... Mark your calendars for Sunday, May 5, as Shepparton Harness Racing Club prepares to host ‘Pacing for Pink’, Victoria’s major event in support of the McGrath Foundation. Pictured are Juanita Breen, Jack Laugher, Michael Bellman, Ellen Tormey and Donna Castles. Photo: Supplied

ALL roads lead to Shepparton Harness Racing on Sunday, May 4 for Victoria’s major Pacing for Pink event in support of the McGrath Foundation. Last year’s even raised its highest amount ever for the breast cancer charity, raising a $164,000, and locals are invited to attend for a gold-coin donation to do it again. Across Victoria, 80 Senior Drivers have been sponsored for the pink pants campaign of which 21 are situated in the Goulburn Valley. Twenty Pony Trot Drivers and five Clerks of the Course have also been sponsored.

a jumping castle, face painting and Murray Mermaids Hair Braiding. Popular ‘Overtime Duo’ from Chiltern will provide musical entertainment.

Shepparton Harness Racing is extremely grateful to major sponsors Hygain and Carbine Chemicals, as well as all race sponsors.

A variety of silent auctions will be held as well as a major raffle, and a variety of special guests and panel of speakers. Bruce Phillips will also dye his hair pink for the day and later have it shaved off for the cause.

Organisers anticipate a great day ahead with full fields, the feature race being the Olive Hayes Memorial for Female Drivers in memory of one of harness racing’s stalwarts. Gard’s Carpentry & Joinery have sponsored a rug for the Best Presented Horse in this race.

Another highlight will be the Pony Trots who will vie for the Water Partners Best Presented. Trackside there will be free entertainment for the kids, including

Guests are encouraged to dress to impress, with judges selecting the best dressed in Fashions on the Field. Great prizes on offer for all sections.

Gates open at 11am on Sunday, May 4, with entry being by gold coin donation. Shepparton Harness Racing Club is located at 7580 Goulburn Valley Hwy, Kialla. For more information, call Colleen Boyington on 0488 231 403.

Shepparton’s Brickman builds Star Wars galaxy

continued from front page

“GROWING up in Shepparton, I never imagined that one day I’d be creating a worldfirst LEGO Star Wars exhibition right here in Victoria,” said Ryan ‘Brickman’. “It’s a real full-circle moment for me, and something I’m incredibly proud of. This exhibition is about bringing imagination to life on a massive scale and it’s something Star Wars fans, LEGO enthusiasts and families can enjoy together.”

Ryan, who is one of the world’s leading LEGO brick artists and the judge on Australian TV show, LEGO Masters Australia, said that building the Star Wars universe from LEGO has been a dream project.

“We’ve gone bigger than ever before and I couldn’t be prouder of what we’ve built,” he said.

"The detail, the size, and the sheer number of bricks used to make this exhibition is something truly special. Whether you’re a lifelong Star Wars fan or just love to build, it’s an experience that everyone can enjoy."

In this new Star Wars exhibition, visitors

will be the first in the world to step into lifesized recreations of iconic Star Wars moments, meticulously built from LEGO® bricks, and engage in hands-on experiences, from helping build large-scale Star Wars LEGO® landscapes

STAR WARS... Raised in Shepparton, Ryan ‘Brickman’ McNaught has gone on to become the only LEGO® Certified Professional in the Southern Hemisphere and one of just 21 globally. His latest project is his most ambitious yet: a world-first exhibition featuring over 8 million LEGO bricks, more than 25,000 hours of building, and life-sized recreations of some of Star Wars’ most iconic scenes. Photo: Supplied

to taking part in interactive digital activities inspired by epic space battles.

For more information and to purchase tickets, visit www.legostarwarstheexhibition. com.

Local papers urge candidates to support local news

COUNTRY Press Australia wants candidates at the upcoming federal election to support a policy demanding a fairer share of government advertising be allocated to regional and local newspapers.

Country Press Australia President Andrew Schreyer said there was an overwhelming need for the next Federal Government to do more to address the challenges faced by producers of essential public interest journalism, and for the government to do so more swiftly.

“It’s extremely disappointing to our industry to see major city-based media entities and overseas owned tech giants such as Meta receive such a significant share of government advertising, especially when the government openly recognises the role our papers play in our democracy.

responsibility to report on local candidates and issues, to hold candidates and government organisations accountable and to be a voice for local communities in regional, rural and other local communities across Australia,” said Mr Schreyer.

“And it is even more alarming when you consider these same social media platforms provide a haven for mis and dis information, for mistruths, and for scams that have caused great distress to many vulnerable Australians”.

Mr Schreyer said the more-than 240 regional and local papers that are part of Country Press Australia have rightfully earned a high level of trust within the communities they serve, and that social media platforms cannot offer the same levels of truth, integrity or accountability that local media does.

“Local papers generally rate highly for trustworthiness compared to other news sources, with many studies confirming people tend to trust local news more than national or social media because it is closer to their communities and less influenced by political or corporate agendas.

“Here in Australia, research by the University of Canberra's Digital News Report has consistently found that local newspapers are among the most trusted news sources, yet our government continues to direct tens of millions of Australian taxpayer dollars to overseas-owned social media platforms that don’t operate to the standards we expect of local media and of ourselves.”

With the federal election held this weekend and papers focused on the issues that matter most to local communities, Mr Schreyer said it was also important to realise that local papers continue to provide a beacon of truth for local issues and candidates, and in many cases the local paper is the sole provider of hyper-local place-based public interest journalism.

“Our papers have an important

Country Press Australia has called on the next Federal Government to adopt a policy that reflects the Victorian Government model of an average one-page per week of government advertising in all eligible regional and rural newspaper as part of a raft of policies that also include tax credits for journalist labour costs and funding for cadet journalists in regional and rural areas.

“Country Press Australia has briefed both major parties on the policies it believes need

to be incorporated into reforms to better support public interest journalism in this country.

“If our politicians truly value the important role of local newspapers, then they must also do more to ensure that this overdue support is delivered as soon as possible.”

Andrew Schreyer is President of Country Press Australia and general manager of the Warragul and Drouin Gazette.

FAIR SHARE... Country Press Australia President Andrew Schreyer is calling for stronger support for public interest journalism and a fair share of advertising for local papers. Photo: Supplied

Red carpet welcome at Irena Care launch

A LARGE crowd gathered to celebrate the grand opening of Irena Care, a newly registered NDIS provider now operating in Shepparton.

Guests were welcomed with a red carpet entrance, given the opportunity to meet the team and explore the facility, including its dedicated sensory room and multiple calming break-out spaces designed to support clients' wellbeing.

Director Joey Leupolu, surrounded by family and clients, officially cut the ribbon and welcomed guests to the open day.

“This is a really exciting milestone for us,” he said. “At the

heart of everything we do is a commitment to care, dignity and excellence. We’re so grateful to have you here to celebrate.”

Irena Care offers a broad range of services including support coordination, day programs, community participation, daily

Tatura Market is back by popular demand

MARK your calendars for Saturday, May 3, because the Tatura Market is set to take place at Stuart Mock Place, Tatura, from 9am to 1pm. Hogan Street businesses will also be open, offering a variety of retail, food and beverage options to explore.

With Mother’s Day right around the corner, the market provides the perfect chance to shop for thoughtful, locally made gifts while soaking up the lively atmosphere. Greater Shepparton City Council Mayor, Cr Shane Sali, encouraged everyone to come along.

“The market is a great day out with something

for all ages. It is an important event for the community, and I encourage everyone to come along, enjoy the atmosphere and see what’s on display,” he said.

Council’s Place Manager, Bonnie McIntosh said,

“There’s such a buzz in town on market day, it brings people together, supports local businesses and is such a special addition to Tatura.”

“We are grateful for all the support the market continues to see and are eager for its return. Without the support of our community, events like these would not take place.”

Located in the heart of Tatura, the market

OPENING

CELEBRATIONS...

Irena Care opened its doors for a grand opening celebration last week, inviting the community to meet the team and explore its specialised facilities, including sensory room. Irena Care Director Joey Leupolu is pictured at the opening with his oldest client, Garry.

living support, allied health, nursing, plan management, home care and respite care.

For more information, call Irena Care on 9116 5740 or email bookings@irenacare.org

features a variety of stalls offering everything from fashion, homewares and jewellery to artisan crafts, along with live entertainment and kids’ activities.

“We have worked closely with local vendors to ensure the market has something for everyone to enjoy. It is an opportunity for our community and visitors to come together and tick off some early

Mother’s Day shopping,” Ms McIntosh said. Residents are encouraged to get out, shop local, and enjoy the atmosphere and entertainment at the Tatura Market this Saturday.

For more information, visit the Greater Shepparton City Council website or social media channels, including the Facebook Event Page.

Cleaning Equipment Hire

IT’S BACK... The Tatura Market is on this Saturday, May 3. With ample stalls and local businesses open for trading, it is a great opportunity to pick up a unique and thoughtful gift for Mother’s Day. Photo: Supplied

Photo: Deanne Jeffers

Shepparton cycling facilities opened

BMX riders and cyclists local and afar are moving up a gear with a new, upgraded facilities now officially open in Shepparton.

The upgrades, funded by the Regional Sports Infrastructure Program, were ready in time for Shepparton BMX Club to host Australia’s top BMX races for the 2025 AusCycling BMX Racing National Series held over the weekend.

The major cycling event brought thousands of competitors and fans to Shepparton and provided a big boost for local businesses and the visitor economy.

Minister for Community Sport Ros Spence opened the Shepparton BMX Track and Cycling Precinct Upgrades in a ribbon cutting ceremony last week.

The project has delivered a new two-storey pavilion that will give spectators better views of the BMX track and serve as a new hub for events and community gatherings. The new pavilion provides accessible and all gender toilets, meeting space, storage, a first aid room, catering facilities, a flexible event space and an outdoor undercover viewing area.

Other upgrades include enhancements to the BMX track and start hills – improving conditions for riders, spectators and

broadcasters, and enabling easier track maintenance.

Additionally, new lighting installed at the adjacent velodrome will support night training, competitions and major cycling and BMX events, drawing thousands to the region.

The velodrome lights were completed in time for the Shepparton Cycling Club to host the opening event for the Victorian State Christmas Track Carnival Series on December 28, 2024.

The upgrades have been delivered in partnership with Greater Shepparton City Council and local Shepparton companies, creating more than 76 jobs and engaging more than 50 businesses along the way.

Greater Shepparton City Council Mayor Cr Shane Sali said, “Our region is well known for BMX and cycling, with our local clubs having great success on and off the track. These upgrades are a game changer for BMX and cycling in Greater Shepparton, ensuring we are ready and able to host world class events, attracting riders and spectators nationally and internationally to our region.”

The project is complemented by upgrades at the nearby VISY Community Stadium, Shepparton Sports Stadium and Shepparton

Sports City, supported by $3M from the Victorian Government’s Council Support Package, which came from the cancelled Commonwealth Games. These upgrades are

now under way and will make the venues more accessible and enjoyable for the community, delivering benefits that may have been realised from hosting the Games.

UPGRADED... Shepparton’s cycling and BMX facilities have received an upgrade. Pictured from left are

Greater Shepparton City Council Acting CEO Gary Randhawa, McEwan Ward’s Cr Steve Threlfall, Shepparton Cycling Club President Brett Lancaster OAM, Minister for Community Sport Ros Spence, Shepparton Mayor Cr Shane Sali and Deputy Mayor Cr Anthony Brophy, Shepparton BMX Club Co-President Ben Fitzsimmons, and BMX club members Hunter Fitzsimmons, and Axel and Addison in the front. Photo: Deanne Jeffers

FACILITIES... Funded through the Victorian Government’s Regional Sports

has a

hills. Photo: Deanne Jeffers

Mother’s Day a

Mother’s Day breakfast - a little help for dads!

YOU’VE done it. It’s Sunday morning, it’s Mother’s Day, and the kids are up, hyped and ready to surprise Mum with their carefully chosen soaps, candles, and handmade chocolates from the school Mother’s Day stall.

Bedraggled and scruffy-haired in their pyjamas, they eagerly look at you - bleary-eyed yourself at the crack of dawn-with a mixture of anticipation and impatience. Clutching handmade cards and creatively wrapped gifts, they gather in the kitchen as you open the fridge, hoping to find enough ingredients to quickly pull together a simple yet delicious Mother’s Day breakfast.

Mum, of course, is still in bed, pretending to snooze.

This is the kind of chaotic, love-filled morning that will one day be remembered fondly, but right now, the pressure’s on. You open the fridge and scan the shelves, hoping inspiration (and ingredients) strike.

To ease the stress and save the moment, here are a few breakfast ideas that are simple, delicious, and likely to bring smiles all around:

Pancakes – Always a crowd-pleaser. Serve them plain with butter and honey, or go deluxe with strawberries, blueberries, and banana slices.

French toast – A touch fancier, but still

easy to pull off. A sprinkle of cinnamon and a drizzle of maple syrup can go a long way.

English muffin stack – Toasted muffins topped with crispy bacon, a poached egg, and a dollop of ricotta? Yes, please.

Cinnamon toast – A nostalgic favourite that’s quick and comforting.

Bruschetta with mushrooms or avocado – For a savoury twist, top toasted bread with mushrooms or smashed avocado and crumbled feta.

The origins of Mother’s Day

MOTHER’S Day wasn’t invented by Mum’s so they could get breakfast in bed and maybe a cheeky present (although that’s a great bonus), the origin of Mother’s Day as we know it took place in the early 1900s.

A woman named Anna Jarvis started a campaign for an official holiday honoring mothers in 1905, the year her own mother died. The first largerscale celebration of the holiday was in 1908, when Jarvis held a public memorial for her mother in her hometown of Grafton, West Virginia, USA.

Over the next few years, Jarvis pushed to have the holiday officially recognised, and it was celebrated

increasingly in more and more states around the USA. Finally, in 1914, President Woodrow Wilson signed a proclamation making Mother’s Day an official holiday, to take place the second Sunday of May.

Anna Jarvis put Mother’s Day on the calendar as a day dedicated to expressing love and gratitude to mothers, acknowledging the sacrifices women make for their children.

It didn’t take off in Australia until 1923, when the late Mrs. Janet Heyden was concerned over lonely, forgotten aged mothers in Sydney's Newington State Hospital, where she visited an old friend regularly.

HELP IS AT HAND... To ensure your mum has a well-deserved (and hopefully) delicious breakfast in bed, there are a number of tried and true recipe ideas that even the most unorganised, but nevertheless loving, family can handle on Mother’s Day morning.

Whatever you manage to cook, whether it’s gourmet or gloriously imperfect, remember: it’s not about the food. It’s about the moment. The laughter, the mess, the teamwork. Sometimes, it’s the overcooked scrambled eggs or slightly charred toast that end up becoming the fondest memories.

So, take a breath, fire up the kettle, and soak in the joy (and mayhem) of a Mother’s Day morning done with love.

She started a campaign throughout the city for donations to buy presents for these women.

Newspapers carried her appeals, while she made personal requests to many of Sydney's leading business houses.

The response amounted to a ton of donations, which were stored in the Sydney Feminist Club. They ranged from talcum powder and soap to knitted scarves and mittens. Confectionery manufacturers, leading firms and the Sydney Fruit Market all contributed toward Mrs Heyden's gifts for 'her' lonely mothers, and the rest is history.

Say a more than words can express this Mother’s Day with WillowTree at Focus Cards and Gifts.

Photo: Supplied Saymorethanwords canexpressthis Mother’sDaywith WillowTreeatFocus CardsandGifts.

181Maudest, SheppartonVIC3036 0358211813 FocusCardsandGifts Focus_cardandgifts

‘ISayLove You,’ beautifully, with Stephens Jewellers

WHETHER you're shopping for mum, nan or a special someone, Stephens Jewellers has you covered with two new catalogues brimming with beautiful gift ideas, starting from just $25.

The Heart of Gold collection features elegant gift ideas to suit all generations of mums, while the Celebrate Her Collection showcases seasonal classics, with everything under $1,000.

From pearl (June) and emerald (May) birthstones to dazzling rubies (July) and diamonds (April), including lab-grown

diamond options that deliver on brilliance without the traditional price tag, there’s something to suit every style and budget.

With gold prices soaring by up to 40 per cent in recent years, Stephens Jewellers has also introduced a stunning range of 18-carat gold-plated, European-designed jewellery, offering luxurious looks and exceptional quality at accessible prices.

“Mother’s Day is a really fun time to be in retail,” said owner Stephen Schneider. “You see dads and grandparents bringing in the

kids, and often they have very strong ideas about what mum will love. Our team has a lot of experience, and they are happy to help bring those ideas to life, beautifully gift wrapped to surprise Mum on Mother's Day.”

“We’ve carefully curated a beautiful range of jewellery and accessories to suit every age and occasion—from five to 85, there’s a quality, affordable piece they’re sure to love.”

Stephen said many shoppers are looking for something meaningful yet affordable.

“People are feeling the pinch with the cost of living, and they want gifts that are

personal and will be treasured well beyond the chocolates and flowers.”

To sweeten the deal, Stephens Jewellers is also giving customers the chance to win a DKNY fashion watch, valued at $299. Stephens is the exclusive stockist of the relaunched DKNY range — see page 20 for full details and terms and an entry form.

For sparkle, sentiment and savings, head into Stephen’s Jewellers at Shop 24/110 Benalla Road in the Shepparton Marketplace and 52 Fryers Street, Shepparton in the CBD.

•Fryers Street, Shepparton

•Shepparton Marketplace

•Hare Street, Echuca

www.stephensjewellers.com.au

sales@stephensjewellers.com.au 03 5821 3361

GIFTS THAT SHINE... Stephens Jewellers offers a curated selection of jewellery and accessories to suit every style and budget. Pictured are retail assistant Marie Dougan and owner Stephen Schneider with their latest catalogues and the DKNY watch you could win with any purchase.

Photo: Deanne Jeffers

The world’s most important work

By Natasha Fujimoto Mum,

Ma, Ahm, Okaasan, Mai, and Mam, are just some of the ways children around the globe refer to that most precious of people: our mother.

From dreaming of new life to giving birth to sparkling little humans, a mother’s work is perpetual, all-consuming, and of utmost importance - not only to the developing soul she nurtures, but to the very preservation of humankind.

So, without cliché or empty sentiment, let’s truly take the time this Mother’s Day to honour our mothers and grandmothers. Let’s set aside a moment to reflect on their ceaseless

work, love, and devotion, for truly, where on Earth would any of us be without them?

For me, when I think of the women who raised me and made me feel confident in my place in the world, I think of their perpetual hands in motion — the warm and steadfast maternal hands of my mother and grandmothers. I recall: Hands that teach, hold, soothe, encourage, and care. Mother’s hands raise the generations.

This Mother’s Day, take a moment to reflect on all that’s been given, not just in things, but in the constant love, care, and devotion she’s shown. And most importantly, let her know… that you know.

Prizes for Mother’s Day

WE are giving readers the chance to win an exceptional prize for Mother’s Day.

If you’d like to treat Mum to a night’s luxury accommodation at the Trawool Estate, or gift her a stylish DNKY watch from Stephens Jewellers or your choice of Willow Tree statues from Focus Cards and Gifts, then simply fill out the entry form on page 20.

This is a great opportunity to claim something special that will make mum's days.

Entering is easy and free! Simply complete the entry form below and place it in the entry boxes at participating businesses. You can find the entry form and terms and conditions on the ad on page 20.

Signature dishes to impress mum

MOTHER’S Day is just around the corner so now’s the time to make those lunch or dinner reservations to avoid missing out.

Whether you’re planning a special outing or cooking something memorable at home, our Signature Dish souvenir lift-out is packed with inspiration. Inside, local chefs share their favourite dishes and how you can recreate them in your own kitchen.

Prefer to dine out? You’ll also find a range of local venues ready to welcome you with a meal mum won’t forget.

Read it for free online at https://issuu.com/ adviser/docs/signature_ dish_april_2025 or scan the QR code to get started. You can also pick up your complimentary copy at The Shepparton Adviser’s office, Level 2, 38-40 Welsford Street, Shepparton.

EAT IN OR OUT... Pictured is Head Chef at Teller, Matteo Nicastro, with his ‘Signature Dish’, Pumpkin & Confit Tomatoes Risotto. It is one of the exquisite recipes featured inside The Adviser’s Signature Dish magazine, showcasing local head chefs and flavourful food. Photo: Emma Harrop

NO LABOR OF LOVE HOLDS GREATER WEIGHT... Say what you will about the world and all its industry, but at the heart of all human endeavour are the warm, ceaselessly guiding and nurturing hands of a mother. Let your mother know you understand and appreciate all that she does this Mother’s Day. Photo: Supplied

Mo Moth ther er’sDa D y

SHOW YOUR LOVE...

Mother’s Day is a wonderful opportunity to show mum how special she is, or to treat the special women in your life and thank them for what they do.

There are lots of ways to show you care and appreciate them this May. Photo: Supplied

Making Mother’s Day special

MOTHER’S Day comes around once a year and it is important to use this time to remind your mum of how special and loved she is, for everything she’s done in your life. Depending on your mum’s taste, there are several ways to treat Mum this Mother’s Day.

Breakfast in bed

Start Mum’s day off right by offering her breakfast in bed. Waking up to scrambled eggs and bacon or pancakes with fresh juice in bed is sure to put a smile on her face when she opens her eyes.

Give your mum a day off

Free Mum’s schedule from household chores on Mother’s Day and encourage

her to relax, maybe even to spend some time with friends and have fun the way that she would like to but never finds the time.

Treat her to flowers

Flowers will be sure to brighten Mum’s mood. You don’t need to spend a lot on an elaborate arrangement, a handmade bouquet from fresh flowers will surely make her smile.

Pamper her

Rest and relaxation would be great for Mum’s physical and emotional health. Book a spa session, massage or manipedi to treat Mum this Mother’s Day and have her feeling refreshed.

GIFT WITH PURCHASE APRIL 7 – MAY 11

Spend $169 or more on NAJO jewellery and receive a pair of these elegant sterling silver earrings valued at $99

Mother’s Day a

WITH their full, fluffy petals and vibrant array of colours, chrysanthemums are known as the unofficial flower of Mother’s Day in Australia. It’s not hard to see why. Not only do chrysanthemums bloom beautifully in autumn, just in time for Mum’s special day, but their name ends in “mum”, making them the perfect symbolic gesture. Whether gifted as a fresh bouquet, a potted plant, or even tucked into a handmade card, chrysanthemums are a timeless way to show love, appreciation and a little seasonal

charm. In the Victorian era, the language of flowers –also known as floriography,was a popular way to convey unspoken emotions through floral arrangements. Each flower held a symbolic meaning, and chrysanthemums were no exception. They symbolised friendship, wellwishing and cheerfulness, a perfect sentiment for Mother’s Day. However, it is interesting to note that yellow chrysanthemums carried a different message: “Slighted love” or “neglected affection.” For a more affectionate

gesture, red or white blooms are the preferred pick. This Mother’s Day, say it with chrysanthemums; a flower as enduring and beautiful as the mums we celebrate.

of their acclaimed 2024 national tour, awardwinning world music ensemble, MZAZA (pictured) will return to Eastbank this May for a spellbinding show that promises to be out of this world. Drawing upon Greek

Get set for a musical odyssey like no other

AWARD-winning world music ensemble

MZAZA returns in 2025 with their spellbinding production The Birth and Death of Stars, a breathtaking

continuation of their acclaimed 2024 national tour.

Led by enchanting French vocalist Pauline Maudy (2023 Australian Folk Music Awards Artist of the Year), MZAZA fuses French, Balkan, and Mediterranean influences into a rich, genre-defying musical experience. Expect a dazzling blend of vocal harmonies in three languages, layered with accordion, violin, Persian shah kaman, percussion, guitar and double bass.

This genre-blurring production will take you on an extraordinary theatrical voyage across myth, science, and the stars. With stunning visuals, intricate animation by Laura Matikainen, direction by Benjamin Knapton, and design by Alison Ross, the performance will ignite the senses and inspire the soul.

Drawing on Greek mythology and astronomy, The Birth and Death of Stars explores what connects us to each other - and the cosmos - through electrifying music and visual storytelling.

As part of the tour, MZAZA will also host free community workshops open to musicians and singers of all ages and skill levels – a unique opportunity to learn

from one of Australia’s most captivating musical groups.

The recipient of numerous glowing testimonials, The Australia Arts Review said of The Birth and Death of Stars, “MZAZA were like a rich blend of something delicious and exotic I used to eat before it vanished from earth.”

Show information

Part of the 2025 Cabaret Series, The Birth and Death of Stars will play at Riverlinks Eastbank on Friday, May 9 at 7.30pm. Tickets: $36.00 - $55.00 and include a share platter at the table.

Call Riverlinks Box Office on 03 5832 9511 or head to riverlinksvenues.com.au for more information.

Work Shops Information

Inviting participants of all ages and abilities, two concurrent workshops will run from 5.30 - 6.30pm on Friday, May 9. Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult and participants of the workshop will be invited to perform a song with the band at the end of the show.

Workshop Participants are offered 2x $30.00 discounted tickets to the performance registration: https://www. trybooking.com/events/landing/1389394

mythology and astronomy, The Birth and Death of Stars is an electrifying musical experience led by French vocalist, Pauline Maudy and fuses French, Balkan and Mediterranean influences. Photo: Supplied

FLOWER POWER... Chrysanthemums, affectionately known as “mums,” are a Mother’s Day favourite in Australia, thanks to their seasonal bloom in May. These hardy flowers come in a variety of shapes and colours and are easy to grow, making them the perfect gift to brighten any home. Pictured are flowers at Alowyn Gardens in Yarra Glen. Photo: Deanne Jeffers

For the continuation of your reading pleasure...

WELCOME to the second and concluding instalment of the remarkable and inescapably captivating short story, Vanilla... Then Cinnamon, by award-winning author Anson Cameron, who is formerly of Shepparton.

For those keen to dive back into this surprising and refreshing original tale centred on the off-beat relationship between a comatose patient and his tender-hearted nurse, who ignites his senses from the hospital bed with smuggled-in delicacies of

spices, citrus, and cocoa, please be advised that some ‘adult phrasing’ lies ahead.

For avid readers who have yet to enjoy the first instalment (published in our previous edition), you’ll be pleased to know that the story in its entirety

can be found online by heading to this link: www.sheppadviser.com.au/ vanilla-then-cinnamon-by-anson-cameron/. So, once again, sit back and enjoy the culminating instalment of Vanilla...Then Cinnamon – you won’t easily forget it!

Vanilla...Then

Cinnamon

Ha. A snippet of merriment. The first stroke of the happy engine of laughter. Ha ha ha... etcetera. She stopped coming after a year. Stopped without warning. She hadn’t told me she was going away, that our fates were diverging.

Perhaps when she knew she was moving on she gave up the charade that I was a living, thinking man who needed things explained. Perhaps my cognizance was a conceit she felt silly about when she finally knew she was going. Put away the imaginary friend, Ha. It’s time to grow up, move on.

I mourned her, this mouthwateringly scented woman incanting Eastern prayer and dabbing my tongue with sorbet. I missed her a great deal. That year with Ha. That year of taste reborn; of umami, bitter, salty, sour and sweet. A golden age between the years before and after, when my taste buds endured two vast blanks like the two eternities that parenthesize life itself.

by Anson Cameron

their weight foot-to-foot, and they were drawing measured breaths, like a pilgrimage of astronomers come to see the transit of Venus, a ruck of dockhands come to ogle a famous stripper.

In the preceding days I’d made sounds approximating words and I’d twitched and flexed sufficient to indicate I was rising, rising up through myriad layers of unconsciousness toward them. They have tracked me like a whale surfacing from great depths toward the icesheet, and they have gathered to witness my historic breakthrough.

*

Was she promoted? Fired? Did she find a new, more rewarding, job? Did she graduate and become a doctor? Wouldn’t she have shared that good news with me? Did she have a baby and become a hands-on mum who remembers me when she dabs banana rice on her infant’s tongue and is rewarded with a smile? I would have given anything to reward her with a smile.

She moved on. Everyone moves on when you’re incarcerated in a prison of pajamas and sheets. I lay a long time after Ha without tasting anything. And I missed her scent, her presence, immeasurably more than the covert smorgasbord she once brought to me.’

*

Eavesdropping became a main entertainment in coma. Mostly it was the nurses as they talked in the corridor outside my room. Like wooden ships sailingeast and west, passing on the high sea and exchanging their worlds briefly.

Nurses’ at speed with their shorthand tittle-tattle. Nurses’ have you heards? A hungover Friday nurse declaring – ‘I just couldn’t be arsed today - patients will die.’ A nurse frustrated with me, asking another, ‘What’s the point of this guy?

Like, shit, is this a responsible use of resources?’ The answer being, ‘I think he’s an experiment.’

Then the eavesdropped snippet that ran a voltage of sour electricity through my marrow and woke me. Two nurses, Sophie and Jenni: ‘You hear Ha’s getting married? Here in Sapphire Creek, at All Saints. To the invisible boyfriend. The banker.’

‘Yeah, I know. I’m going to the wedding. Are you going?’

‘No. She left pretty soon after I got here.’

‘Oh, she’s super nice. She’s a doctor now.’ Hearing of her engagement galvanized whatever eccentric morsel of manliness lived in me. It acted as my alarm clock - it alarmed me.

*

There was a lackluster fanfare in our little town upon my resurrection. The redheaded Irish surfer/chef who had embraced Sapphire Creek with a refugee’s glee and been found on the Point Black rocks with his head gashed and his lungs marinated in brine and kept alive in deathly state ever since - was back from that mysterious realm. Hallelujah.

They extolled my bravery in headlines: “Miracle Chef Back In The Kitchen.” I wasn’t back in any kitchen. My restaurant had become a Mexican takeaway run by Greeks. The town held a Welcome Home party for me at the football club where a Pogues tribute band from Kojonup played. A Chinese Whisper of the Pogues in truth, careful in their musicality and in their lyrics – and sober. I wasn’t in great spirits anyway, what with both my parents having died while I was under and people telling me just now. I was grieving. The good news is you’re alive... the bad news is everyone you love no longer is.

My world’s a looted gallery. There once were masterpieces here, gone now, and me come back to witness the want of them.

I woke in a curtained enclave filled with doctors adorned with silver apparatus. A frisson of expectation was making them shift

had the urge to shout, ‘Barry’s a creep,’ or ‘Sheila’s a cheat,’ at this ‘speak now’ provocation offered up by the vicar. But each is more cowardly than honest and forever holds its peace.

But I’ve been silent many years and there’s no holding my tongue now.

Everyone wonders who this sallow cuckoo is among all the suncoppered family on the bride’s side of the church. This emaciated Celt stepped from among the Vietnamese and seemingly about to speak now and not forever hold his peace as one must.

*

A little wooden beauty it is, All Saints. White ribbons bordering her path today and mighty bluegums sparking sun above and the sea below a serene green. Such a day as lends itself to love. You’d almost snatch a thin stranger off the street and say, ‘Let’s...’

I work my walking sticks and wheeze and swelter until I finally plonk myself mid-church with a grunt. I am in among Ha’s people, the Vietnamese to the dexter side of the chancel. I have taken refuge here because I will be making accusations against the Caucasians, their boy, and I don’t want to be piled on and denounced and perhaps beaten.

The vicar resembles a teepee filled with lard and when she asks us if anyone present knows of any reason that this couple should not be joined in holy matrimony to speak now or forever hold our peace I ratatatat my walking stick on the pew in front of me causing a tiny woman with chopsticks skewering her black beehive to clutch her throat and blurt FuckChrist.

I step sideways into the aisle as the happy couple turn to me. Ha stares at me, her face locked into the kind of artificial happiness that turns into a headache and is, anyway, a dead giveaway for screaming doubt. Her faux joy melts away and reforms as wonder when she realizes who I am. I must look like a desiccated saint risen from a crypt to her. An old confidante back from the grave. The keeper of all her private fears has sculled a jeroboam of truth serum and is ready to rock. Fuck me, she must be thinking, I have told all my secrets to a medically certified mute and the bastard has found voice.

Neil is a hulking nonentity in a morning suit. “Puddinface” my gran would have called him, as she did all those girthy young men who’d never hacked at Germans with bayonets.

But what, really, can you say as the incense smolders and the jaws of the congregation hang aghast? How can you talk a woman down from committing the folly she is fated to commit while the family breathes and fidgets collaboration? I hadn’t planned my denunciation of Neil. I was going to ad lib, fly by the seat of my pants and, in précis, call him a fucker without peer. Any spurned beau could shout the same thing at any wedding.But I see by her face that my being here is already the retelling of Neil’s crimes. My being back from the dead has loosed the truths she told me into the fragrant All Saints air.

As I rise from my pew the vicar scowls. The congregation is watching agog, secretly thrilled I’m sure, because, I mean, you never hear anyone speak now. They always forever hold their peace. For a thousand years the honest heart of every wedding congregation has

I need to tell her the other thing. I need to tell her how I lay with her unendingly, and what chords she played for me in that long night.

My voice is dry and would be faint if it weren’t filling a hush deeper than silence.

‘Vanilla,’ I say into the small church. ‘Then cinnamon.’

EMPLOYMENT

VOCATIONALLY REGISTERED (VR) GENERAL PRACTITIONER

After Hours Service - Part Time, 15 Hours Per Week

Work Hours:

• Tuesdays: 2:00 PM – 7:00 PM

• Thursdays: 2:00 PM – 7:00 PM

• Saturdays: 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM

Looking to make a meaningful impact without the demands of full-time hours?

Wellbeing team and deliver culturally safe care to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander clients when they need it most—after hours. This is your chance to work in a valuesled, community-controlled health service, where every shift helps improve access to healthcare and outcomes for our community.

About the Role:

The General Practitioner (GP) is responsible for delivering high-quality, culturally safe, comprehensive primary health care to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander clients within a Community-Controlled health service. This after-hours role supports access to primary care outside of standard hours, contributing to improved health outcomes and community wellbeing

About You

Registered to practice in Victoria as medical

• Demonstrated experience or strong interest in working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.

• Commitment to the principles of Aboriginal community-controlled health care.

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

• Ability to build rapport with patients and community

• as part of a multi-skilled team

• Competitive salary range and conditions: $213K -237K + Saturday Penalty experience)

• Salary packaging of $15,900 available for Part- or Full-time employees.

• Opportunities for additional incentives: May include Christmas bonus days, recognition of NAIDOC day, periodic adjustments aligned with CPI increases, and the possibility of a relocation allowance when applicable.

• Opportunities for professional development and dedicated support to foster your career growth.

• Employment Assistance Program.

• Fleet cars to carry out daily tasks where applicable.

To ensure a safe and supportive environment, successful applicants must undergo comprehensive reference checks and provide a National Police Check, a Working with Children Check, and evidence of COVID-19 Vaccination status.

To apply, please submit your cover letter addressing the Key Selection Criteria (outlined in the Position Description) and a current resume to marieta.martin@raclimited.com.au or through our website at https://rumbalara.org.au/careers/

The full position description is available to download on our website.

Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples are strongly encouraged to apply as your cultural and lived experiences are central to the work we do.

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ROUND 5 PREVIEWS

I've often been accused of exaggeration, but some of the weekend's results might make a case for the opposite. I predicted Kyabram to win by 59 points; instead, they triumphed by a massive 116 points. At the other end, I tipped Rochester to win by just three points, and they defeated Mansfield by 86 points. My 135-point tip for Echuca was way off; they took until the final term to win by 55 points. I forecasted the Swans to win by 108 points, which wasn't too far off—they beat Tatura by 86 points. I ended up with five out of six correct tips, but I underestimated coaching master Ben Davey at my own peril. He engineered a significant turnaround in form to beat Euroa by 52 points, whereas I had tipped an 11-point Euroa win. Whoops!

Shepparton v Echuca

games. Their 107-point total—and 48-point win— came on the back of a six-goal-to-none first term. All three of Seymour’s losses (they sit seventh) have come against teams currently inside the top six, while United sits tenth after a super brave showing against competition yardstick Echuca, a 17-point loss to Mansfield in a game where they outscored the Eagles in the last three quarters, and a disappointing 74-point loss to the Shepparton Bears. The outlier of the season came last weekend against Kyabram, when United was completely outplayed. Apart from Kade Chalcraft (seven tackles), Dae Szydlik (34 disposals), Jack McCartney (seven clearances), Jesse Cucinotta (another 34-disposal game), and Joel Serra, United had few winners. Prediction: Seymour by 29 points. LTTM: Round 10, 2024 – Seymour won by 32 points.

Tatura v Benalla

Not much separates these two teams after four rounds—just 18 percentage points, to be precise— with Shepparton boasting the best defence and the third-best offence (behind Kyabram and the Murray Bombers). They occupy two of the top three rungs on the ladder and have both played teams yet to post a win in 2025. This round marks the beginning of a challenging month for the three-time reigning premier, who will face both of the other unbeaten teams— Kyabram and Shepparton Swans—in the next four weeks. Recent history favours Echuca, but that would be the case with every team in the competition. The teams return to the scene of last year's grand final "crime." Echuca won all three encounters between these two teams last season: by 70 points in Round 10, by 35 points in the opening week of the finals, and by 96 points in the grand final. Not that they are alone— Echuca also defeated the Bears by 54 points in 2024, and the margins in 2022 were 158 and 80 points. There are mouth-watering match-ups everywhere you look, but here are the headline acts: Holland versus Morris in the ruck; McHale, Stewart, and Evans against Smith, Stevenson, and DeCicco in the midfield; Which defenders will take on leading goal kickers Lewis McShane and Echuca’s Hugh Byrne? Prediction: Shepparton by nine points. Last Time They Met (LTTM) Grand Final, 2024 – Echuca won by 96 points.

Shepp Swans v Rochester

The loser of this game will sit at the bottom of the ladder after five rounds. Benalla, statistically at least, will enter the game as favourites after showing plenty in the first three quarters of their match against Echuca on Saturday. They kicked four straight goals in the first quarter and led the reigning premiers by eight points. Trailing by just 19 points at the final change, they probably considered themselves still a chance of an upset—wrong. Echuca kicked six goals to none in the final term, and Benalla lost by 55 points. It was their best result of the year, however, having lost in the opening three rounds by 89 points (to fourthranked and unbeaten Shepparton Swans), by 87 points to Shepparton Bears (also unbeaten and ladder leader), and to Kyabram (second with the best offence in the competition). Tatura has had a horror draw, playing the four teams that sit in the top four spots on the ladder—losing by 101 points to the Bears, by 128 points to Kyabram, by 161 points to Echuca, and by 72 points in a night fixture to Shepparton Swans. Prediction: Benalla by 31 points. LTTM: Round 18, 2024 - Benalla won by 22 points.

Kyabram v Mansfield

This week will mark the first time in 2025 that the Shepp Swans have played a team inside the top six, having previously defeated the two bottom teams, along with Seymour and Mooroopna. They’ve won impressively in all four outings, but now face a Rochester team with several attacking weapons— Mitch Cricelli, Will Hamilton, his younger brother Hugh, Sean Williams, and the returning James McPhee. Four of those players are currently in the top 23 for the season, while proven goalkicker McPhee kicked two goals in his return last week. They’ll go up against a Swans defence led by in-form halfback Luke Davies, alongside Zac Clohesy and Kade Anderson. Davies took four intercept marks and had four rebound 50s in his return last week. However, it was the return of ruckman Mark Kovacevic that stole the show. He had 58 hit-outs in a 177-ranking point game, where he also collected 24 disposals, had 13 clearances, and kicked two goals. He’ll come up against Tiger veteran Hamish Hooppell, who works in tandem with recruit Nash Ramage. Hooppell had nine clearances, seven inside 50s, 18 disposals, and six tackles last week—so he’s more than capable of holding his own. A mouth-watering battle looms between Swans star Nathan Hrovat and Rochester’s Mitch Trewhella. Hrovat scored 199 ranking points last week with 49 disposals, 12 clearances, and six tackles. By his own standards, Trewhella’s 36-disposal, 10-clearance, and six-tackle game was par for the course. If they match up, it will be worth the price of admission. Prediction: Rochester by 16 points. LTTM: Round 11, 2024 – Rochester won by 50 points.

Seymour v Shepp United

Neither side has a single representative in the top 15 goalkickers this season, so the team that can turn around a lack of scoring options will likely be the winner. Seymour broke its 2025 duck in spectacular fashion against Euroa last weekend, having only managed scores of 40, 71, and 63 in the opening three

This match serves as a prelude for Bombers fans, who, while not counting their chickens before they hatch, can't resist a sneak peek at the Round 6 game against Echuca and the Round 8 fixture against Shepparton Bears. After Round 8, we'll have a clearer picture of just how formidable Kyabram is. They dismantled Shepparton United last week with 48 scoring shots, securing a 116-point victory. In the preceding three weeks, they defeated Benalla by 105, Tatura by 128, and warmed up with a 37-point win against Euroa. In Anthony Depasquale's absence (making his VFL debut with Werribee), Riley Ironside stepped up, delivering arguably the best game of his senior GVL career—seven goals from 26 disposals and 140 ranking points. The standout performance came from ruckman Zac Norris. Teaming up with co-captain Aidan Robinson, they dominated the ruck with 79 hit-outs and 14 clearances between them (Norris contributing 10). Both also kicked two goals each. Prediction: Kyabram by 41 points LTTM: Round 14, 2024 – Kyabram won by 35 points.

Mooroopna v Euroa

As regular finalists, both the Cats and Magpies will be eager to secure their first win of the season on Saturday, but one will walk away disappointed. They currently sit eighth and ninth on the ladder but have not been totally inept this season. Mooroopna has faced four teams in the top six, and the Magpies lost to Kyabram, Rochester, and Echuca before falling to neighbour Seymour in their most disappointing return of the season on Saturday. Mooroopna has not allowed an opponent to score 100 points this year and has regularly had more disposals than its opposition. It lost to Mansfield by 38 points, by just seven to Rochester, by 28 to the Swans, and by 39 in a night fixture against the Bears. Ruckman Jack Johnston has been a standout this season, working with ground-level stars Kai Madgwick and Coby James. The Cats' defence, led by captain Ben Hicks, has been outstanding, and last weekend, Dom Gugliotti, Hicks, and Nathan Drummond all did impressive work in the back half.

Prediction: Mooroopna by 25 points. LTTM: Round 10, 2024 – Mooroopna won by nine points.

Council calls on Government funding to fix outdated stadium

GREATER Shepparton City Council is again advocating Federal and State Governments and opposition to contribute significant funds to redevelop Greater Shepparton Sports Stadium.

Originally built in the 1970s, the stadium supports more than 150 local sporting clubs with an estimated 15,000 members, but its outdated facilities mean it falls short of being the premier event centre a regional city the size of Shepparton deserves.

Council believes that the outdated stadium hinders their ability to attract significant tournaments and events to the region, providing a barrier to improve social and economic outcomes for Greater Shepparton.

Greater Shepparton Major Events Program brings in $62M per annum, which Council

Shepparton Bears v Echuca

believes could be increased with an improved venue catering for sporting events and a range of other large events, with seating for up to 3,000 spectators.

They are asking the Australian Government to contribute $20M to the re-development of the Shepparton Sports Stadium into a Shepparton Sports & Events Centre. Council is also asking the Victorian Government to contribute $8M, with Council contributing $4M towards the redevelopment.

Mayor, Councillor Shane Sali, said the project is shovel ready with a design that enables a staged approach, less disruption to users of the stadium and is mindful of the constrained economic conditions of the Australian and Victorian Governments.

called for funding from the Federal and State Governments to give

Stadium its much-needed upgrade and transform it into a Sports and Events Centre. Federal Member for Nicholls, Sam Birrell MP also announced that a Dutton-Littleproud Coalition government will invest $20M to expand the Shepparton Sports Stadium if elected.

“The project is more than just a Sports and Events Centre; it will be a significant regional hub that services the six surrounding municipalities. The redevelopment will provide for large-scale events at state, national and international standards and cater for additional activities such as dance, boxing, judo, taekwondo, pickleball and other multisport and non-sporting events,” he said.

“The economic benefit of attracting major

events flows through to our local businesses, with accommodation and hospitality providers set to benefit, as well as other visitor experiences and attractions.”

Federal Member for Nicholls, Sam Birrell MP also announced that a Dutton-Littleproud Coalition government will invest $20M to expand the Shepparton Sports Stadium if elected.

GVL netball ROUND 5 PREVIEWS

Only two teams remain unbeaten after four rounds of the GVL A Grade netball season, and it won’t be for another two months until they meet to potentially break the deadlock. Ellie Warnock’s Euroa and Kim Borger’s Shepparton Bears share top spot on the ladder, while Seymour and Tatura sit one game behind.

Borger played an unusual second fiddle in her team’s 11-goal win, with Ruby Higgins coming onto the court in the second term and scoring 20 goals for the game. Sophie Harmer started in goals before ending the game in the centre. The Bears led Mooroopna at every change, although the last term was an 11-all scoreline. Bears defenders Hannah Crawley and Molly Kennedy faced off against quality opposition but restricted Ash Lancaster and her feeder partners to 10 third-term goals. They will face off against Rose Byrne on the weekend after she shot 12 first-quarter goals and finished with 30 for the game. Ashlea Hare and Lillie Taylor will match up against Borger and her co-goalers this weekend, while Echuca looks set on a mix of Kylie Walker, Emma J Head, Maisy Byrne, and Isabella Spring to partner veteran Steph Vick in the mid-court. My prediction is for Shepparton to take the win by 13 goals.

Seymour v Shepp United

Seymour has dropped to third after losing its first game of the season, while United has squared the ledger and sits inside the top six—as one of four teams with two wins and two losses. The Lions rolled out the big guns in attack for the game against Euroa, but were comfortably outscored for three quarters before only losing the final term by two. Ellie Fuhrmeister and Ruby Martin played together in goals, while Georgia Engel started with the job on Olivia Morris before that job was passed onto Toni Bootland.

Morris finished with 54 goals in the 21-goal win, while Fuhrmeister shot 26 of her team’s 48 goals. Seymour used Lucy Zotti exclusively in the mid-court, alongside Casey Adamson, and Olivia Barry had three quarters in the mid-court. United shook a determined Kyabram by scoring 29 goals to 15 after half-time, with Abby Gilmore (16 second-half goals)

and Hannah Onley (31 for the game) in control. Holly Kirby interchanged with Montanna Burke in the centre, but United changed little else in the 25-goal win (59–34). My prediction is for Seymour to take the win by 18 goals.

Shepp Swans v Rochester

After a disappointing loss to Mooroopna a week earlier, the Swans were up for the Anzac Day bout with fourth-ranked Tatura and led by two goals at half-time. Chelsea McDonald, Natasha Atkinson, and Sienna Burke interchanged in goals, while Klarindah Hudson was again the backbone of the defence, pitted against Charlette Gray. The Swans were still in front at three-quarter time but lost the last quarter 8–12 to remain with just one win for the season. Jaylah Meda came on for a short stint at goal attack, but it was Atkinson who was the major goal scorer. Rochester had another player make her debut, with Payton Tiller facing off against a determined Mansfield. Bridgette McCarty was best on court for the winners, supported by Ava Cottam and goaler Ava Nihill. It was a terrific come-from-behind win for the Tigerettes, who trailed Mansfield by six goals at quarter-time before a 14–7 third term gave them a half-time lead. The teams were tied at three-quarter time before the Tigers registered a second win for the season. My prediction is for Rochester to take the win by four goals.

Mooroopna

v Euroa

No surprises that reigning premier Euroa sits on top of the ladder after four rounds, having accounted for previously undefeated Seymour by 21 goals on Saturday. The dynamic defensive duo of captain Kellie Davidson and coach Ellie Warnock had the better of Seymour’s quality duo, and the Magpies welcomed back Hollie Reid and Eliza Hoare from injury. Euroa used Bree Sudomirski after half-time, while Sophie Owen worked in tandem with Reid. The Cats used 11 of their squad in the loss to Shepp Bears, with only shooter Ash Lancaster and winger Ash Gray spending the entire game on court. Lancaster will face quality defence this week on the back of 34 goals last weekend. Bree Hanslow spent more time in the mid-court this week, working with Rhani Hendy and Shelby Britten.

SUNDAY 4 MAY 2025

Chloe Melenmeesters was the 11th player used at goal keeper, after Dayne Williams moved to defence. My prediction is for Euroa to take the win by 26 goals.

Kyabram v Mansfield

Mansfield has the chance to move off the bottom rung of the ladder if it can record a third straight win against Kyabram on Saturday. The Eagles beat the Bombers by three goals and by 14 goals last season, but Kyabram sits above Mansfield on the ladder four weeks into the season. Tash Dodos shot all of Kyabram’s eight opening-quarter goals in its loss to United on Saturday, but she and Tim Skinner (with Isla Carver occasionally in the goaling circle) struggled from that point, and Kyabram managed only 34 goals. Jemma Hall and Monique Williams will be key to the game in defence, and if they can control Alexandra Ball, the Bombers will be on their way to victory. Ball shot 23 goals in the narrow loss to Rochester on Saturday, with Amy Dixon-Rielly in support. My prediction is for Mansfield to take the win by six goals.

Tatura v Benalla

After facing a 13-goal half-time deficit against last season’s grand finalist, Echuca, the 11th-ranked Benalla team could have been forgiven for packing it in for the remaining half. They were only outscored by three in the second half, standing tall in the 100th game of coach Chloe Hill. Hill and Chloe Elliott combined to keep the Echuca goalers to just 20 secondhalf goals, while Bridget Hill shot 15 second-half goals for Benalla, with Nikita Hanson and Milly Evans in support. The 16-goal loss means they are one of just two teams yet to win a game this year, and breaking that duck will be difficult against a Tatura team which dug deep after being challenged by Shepparton Swans on Friday night. Captain Molly Boyle’s final-term defensive work, alongside Jasmine Fraser, allowed the Bulldogs to scrap through by two goals in a low-scoring match. Charlette Gray was the go-to goaler, supported by Julia Clarke and with constant supply from Zoe Hayes, Elsie Boyer, and Taylor Rokahr. My prediction is for Tatura to take the win by 20 goals.

Pacing For Pink

SLAM DUNK... GSCC

Shepparton

Photo: Deanne Jeffers

FOOTY’S JUST BETTER WHEN CARLTON ARE FIRING: THE THINGS WE LEARNED

JAIDEN SCIBERRAS/SEN

ANZAC Day weekend has come and gone, with a number of top-tier contests marking a very strong round of AFL football.

Kicking off with a Demon win, a moving Anzac Day commemoration and a Blues scalp, this weekend’s fixtures delivered in a major way.

With that being said, here are the things that we learned during Round 7.

Max Gawn is the key

The Demons are a completely different side when Max Gawn is at his best.

Against no slouch in Toby Nankervis, Gawn was absolutely everywhere, collecting 25 touches, nine marks and 12 score involvements to anchor the Demons to their second win of the season.

Arguably the best on ground in both of Melbourne’s wins thus far, it’s clear that if Simon Goodwin wants his side to fire, he needs to squeeze every ounce of top-level football out of the 33-yearold as he possibly can.

While the Demons have shown much better signs in their past two games, there is still plenty to prove if they want to propel their season back on track.

Injured first-team players, consistency from their midfield core and an ideal front-half mix all remain challenges for Goodwin, however the signs for the Dees are positive.

Paul Curtis is North Melbourne’s best talent

From all of their top-end draft stock, it seems hard to believe that a former pick 35 has become the cream of the crop.

Curtis has been on fire in 2025, taking his game to an entirely new level in the forward half for the Roos.

Another three goals against Port Adelaide saw the 22-year-old leap into

the top five in the Coleman Medal race, tied for 18 goals with teammate Nick Larkey.

Rapidly becoming one of the competition’s most premium small forwards, Curtis has booted multiple goals in every game this season, looking lively and playing with heart and passion in each contest thus far, irrespective of North Melbourne’s form.

With Harry Sheezel having a downyear, George Wardlaw finding his stride post-injury and obvious holes around the ground, Curtis has been a constant shining light for the Kangaroos.

If he maintains this sort of level, the sky is the limit.

The Doggies engine room is scary good

Seven elite-tier midfielders in one side, Luke Beveridge is spoilt for

choice at the centre of the park.

The return of Marcus Bontempelli has propelled the Bulldogs to the next level after comfortably taking care of one of the premiership favourites in the Giants away from home.

Not only did the Bulldogs pile on five straight goals in the third term to run away with the contest, they did so in the absence of Sam Darcy, Cody Weightman, Jamarra Ugle-Hagan and Lachie McNeil, four of the side’s firstteam forwards.

The spark spawned directly from the centre of the park. Four goals from James Harmes and two from Matt Kennedy exemplifies the importance of goals from the midfield.

Beyond scores, the Dogs finished with a whopping +22 in the clearance count, with seven midfielders and their ruckman each finishing with 20+ disposals and six of the aforementioned

managing five or more clearances.

Tom Liberatore, Ed Richards, Joel Freijah, Matt Kennedy, James Harmes, Riley Sanders, a returning Adam Treloar and of course, Marcus Bontempelli.

Scary hours out of Fitzroy.

Gold Coast are more than just their midfield

29 points down, 20 minutes into the second term, and didn’t they turn the tables.

11 goals to three from that stage, the Suns went ballistic against the reigning Grand Finalists to win by 38 points.

The most impressive factor of Gold Coast’s come-from-behind win was the absence of their midfield elites.

Yes, the Suns did finish +9 in the clearance count, but it’s fair to say their midfield three of Noah Anderson, Matt Rowell and Touk Miller played their poorest game of the season thus far.

Just 16 disposals and five turnovers for Rowell, 21 at poor efficiency with just three clearances for Anderson and just the 24 at 71 per cent for Miller, the elite trio did not deliver in the manner that we would typically expect.

But that didn’t matter for Damien Hardwick’s men.

A phenomenal game from Bailey Humphrey, over 1000 metres gained between back flankers Daniel Rioli and John Noble and eight goals combined for key forwards in Ben King and Jed Walter was the difference in the contest.

Good teams win in multiple ways.

Carry on this sort of team-based performance and the Suns present as a real premiership threat.

Footy’s just better when Carlton are firing

Love them or hate them, an in-form Blues side makes for electric viewing.

Nearly 70 thousand fans in attendance to watch a Carlton side that have only beaten North Melbourne and West Coast in their last 13 games take on a raging Geelong side, and didn’t

they deliver.

A spectacle for the ages, Carlton put on by far their best performance of 2025, standing up against one of the competition’s best sides to win in extraordinary fashion.

Both Harry McKay and Elijah Hollands were enormous after dealing with a number of respective personal challenges, Captain Cripps turned up when called upon and George Hewett continued his All-Australian form as the Blues claimed their third straight victory.

Geelong certainly put up a fight, but for the first time in a short while, Carlton seemed to have the answers. When it seemed destined for the Blues to fall as they have done so many times before, they stood up and responded in a big way.

One of the biggest teams in the land, who have failed to deliver for years, might just have the mix to launch their season back on track.

When the Blues are good, the game is good. More of this.

It’s a big week for the Swans From the Grand Final in 2024, to a 2-5 start in 2025.

Dean Cox has taken the helm at the Swans and the transition has not been pretty.

Another loss today, falling from 29 points up to capitulate under Gold Coast pressure, the Swans simply had no answers.

While Sydney does have a number of players out of the side with injury, they seem to be missing several important pieces needed to capitalise on their list.

A clear lack of forward threat has seen the Swans exceed 90 points just once this season, and with the Tom McCartin experiment clearly failing, Cox will need to solve their scoring issues as soon as possible.

Have we seen the peak of this Sydney list, or are the returning firstteamers the answer?

All eyes on the Swans.

Harry McKay of the Blues celebrates after kicking a goal during the AFL Round 7 match between the Carlton Blues and the Geelong Cats at the MCG. Photo: SCOTT BARBOUR/AAP IMAGE

GETTING IT DONE FOR NICHOLLS!

The Nationals in an elected Coalition Government, will create a $20 billion Regional Future Fund to ensure wealth created by regional people is invested back into the regions. Investing in:

• Bring back sensible water policy – end open tender water buybacks

•Invest $20 million into the Shepparton Sports Stadium redevelopment

•Invest $6.3 million to assist in restoring Kirwans Bridge

•Improve safety and congestion in Shepparton CBD by upgrading Welsford Street

•Upgrade female change facilities at Mooroopna and Stanhope –the start of more sporting club facility upgrades across our region under a Coalition Government

• Over $1.4 million committed to vital community projects in Seymour

•Investing in Echuca Wharf

•Making the Echuca CBD safer with CCTV cameras

TACKLING ISSUES

ON AND OFF THE FIELD

Fight cost of living pressures by:

• Halving the Fuel Excise for 12 months saving families up to $1500

• Deliver cheaper energy

• Stop supermarkets exploiting consumers

• Boost Housing supply

•Deliver up to $1200 in tax relief for most working Australians

I’ve made it my mission to train with as many football and netball clubs as I can across Nicholls over the past three years.

Training with local clubs means hearing from the ground what matters to locals and their community.

Authorised by Sam Birrell, The