The Adviser 1782

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Truckie tax backlash

SHEPPARTON hosted the National Road Transport Association (NatRoad) annual national conference, NatRoad Connect 25, in Shepparton, on Friday, September 12.

With opening addresses from NatRoad Chair Paul Fellows and Senator Bridget McKenzie, Shadow Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development, the day of conference sessions covered legal, tax, insurance, regulatory and HR issues. Speakers included industry experts from the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator, the ATO and NatRoad’s in-house legal and HR advisors. Continued Page 10

WORKS UNDERWAY UNDERWAY

GV Link will be a new Enterprise Park for the region, encouraging large scale commercial investment within Greater Shepparton.

Works on Stage 1 of GV Link Enterprise Park at 250 Toolamba Road are progressing.

GV Link will be a new Enterprise Park for the region, encouraging large scale commercial investment within Greater Shepparton.

Works on Stage 1 of GV Link Enterprise Park at 250 Toolamba Road are progressing.

Subdivision works

Expected completion December 2025

Development of a four-lot industrial estate subdivision across 55 hectares and associated civil works:

Topsoil stripping complete on lots 1 to 3 and earthworks progressing well

Subdivision area is approx. 55 hectares (equivalent to 28 MCG ovals!)

Drainage works underway in the wetland and on large drainage (1.5km of drainage pipe being installed)

Service connections

Expected completion March 2026

Works to commence Monday 22 September 2025

Commencing in Mooroopna, taking advantage of school holidays

WHERE TO KEEP UP TO DATE WITH THE PROJECT

Water and gas installation underway –completed on Simson Road

Wetland excavation complete, with rock beaching to follow

Roundabout works

Expected completion February 2026

Roundabout intersection upgrade at Toolamba Road and Simson Road, Mooroopna:

Works commenced Monday 8 September 2025

Simson Road pavement ongoing, and Innovation Drive starting soon

B-Double rated, singlelane, 80km/h roundabout

Majority of works to be completed prior to end of December 2025 Includes water, sewer, NBN, gas and power services to the subdivision

Traffic management, including speed limits and shuttle flow (traffic diversions) currently in place along Toolamba Road

Iconic venue embarks on $10M transformation

THE Shepparton Club has launched a $10M, four-stage redevelopment that will modernise its facilities while strengthening its role as a community hub.

Stage one is almost complete, relocating and expanding staff offices upstairs to improve space and expand administrative and staff facilities.

Stage two will transform the ground floor, featuring a new sports bar with a 6m LED TV, a relocated gaming room and smoker’s area, improved member’s area and entry points, plus enhanced security including facial recognition. Work is expected to begin shortly and take about four months.

General Manager, Wayne Sutton said the

changes would allow the club to extend its opening hours.

“With the new layout, we’ll be able to offer breakfast and open earlier in the day without compromising security,” he said.

Stages three and four, scheduled for next year, will see a full bistro redevelopment, temporary relocation of dining facilities, and the addition of a multi-purpose boardroom with modern conferencing technology. The exterior will also receive a facelift, with new features allowing the façade to change colours.

Designed by Nervegna Reed Architects and delivered by Glenn Rickys & Moylan with local trades, it is the club’s first major

Seniors Festival locked in

VICTORIA’S largest Seniors Festival returns in October 2025, and Greater Shepparton City Council is encouraging older residents to get involved. From Wednesday, October 1 until Friday, October 31, a wide range of events and activities designed for older residents will be on offer as part of the state-wide and local 2025 Seniors Festival Program.

A hard copy of the festival program

will be available in The Shepparton Adviser’s ‘Positive Living & Ageing Well’ quarterly newsletter, proudly supported by the Council, and hitting letterboxes next week on September 24. Copies can also be collected from the Council’s offices from Monday, September 29.

For more information about the Seniors Festival and program updates, visit shepp.city/seniorsfest

upgrade since 2000.

Beyond bricks and mortar, the club contributes more than $100,000 annually to local charities and plans to expand community offerings, including Sunday music sessions and new spaces for its 10,000+ members.

The Shepparton Club is located at 455 Wyndham St, Shepparton, and is open for business during the four-stage redevelopment.

Fun for all the family!

Art & Crafts, Horticulture, Livestock Judging, Sideshow Alley by the Victorian Showmen’s Guild, wide variety of food trucks and trade stalls!

Free family entertainment: Sandy Creek Clydesdales and Blacksmith Display. New Competition: The Dog High Jump, open to all dogs of all shapes and sizes. Roving Performers - Les Torros Drummers. The Anti-gravity Circus. The French Circus School with activities for all ages. The ever-popular animal nursery provided by Redlily Farm and Aussie Farm Animals and much more!

redevelopment. Stage one has been completed, moving administration and staff facilities upstairs with stage two renovations to the ground floor set to begin soon. Pictured is Shepparton Club General Manager, Wayne Sutton. Photo: Deanne Jeffers

$13M machete “fiasco”

THE State Government’s machete amnesty began on September 1, calling for Victorians to dispose of their machetes in dedicated bins at police stations, including one stationed outside of the Shepparton Police Station.

State Member for Shepparton District, Kim O’Keeffe, said she is appalled by the significant cost of the machete disposal bins, which are reported to have cost $13M for 45 bins around the state, with each bin costing nearly $290,000, alongside a three-month public awareness campaign.

“I don’t know how the government can justify this figure,” said Ms O’Keeffe. “Taxpayers deserve to know why the cost is so high. This is yet another example of financial mismanagement, and regional Victorian communities need genuine investment in policing and community safety, not wasteful spending on bins that will do nothing to address crime in the region.”

Ms O’Keeffe said that investing in more police officers and better bail reform would be more worthwhile than the machete

bins. She also highlighted funding shortfalls in police mental health services and regional courts.

“Crime is escalating, Victorians are feeling unsafe, and yet millions are being spent on a scheme that won’t address crime,” she said. “Victoria Police remain critically underfunded and under resourced, with more than 1,100 frontline positions unfilled. These are the repercussions when $50 million was cut from the police budget.”

“It’s unrealistic to believe that gang members or criminals will voluntarily dispose of their weapons in a CCTV-monitored police station,” she said. “Why waste millions on bins when real police patrols and local support are needed?”

IN THE BIN... State Member for Shepparton District, Kim O’Keeffe (pictured), said she is appalled that the State Government would spend $13M on 45 machete bins, describing it as a wasteful and misguided attempt to reduce violent crime. Photo: Supplied

Book your gala dinner tickets today

WE'RE just weeks away from celebrating the region’s top businesses and professionals at the 2025 Greater Shepparton SPC Business Excellence Awards gala dinner on October 24 at Riverlinks Eastbank.

The evening will feature the announcement of category winners and the prestigious Hall of Fame inductee for 2025.

Returning as Master of Ceremonies is the ever-popular Col Cameron, guiding guests through a night that champions achievement, celebrates success, and honours the strength of our vibrant business community.

Tickets are on sale now via the Riverlinks Box Office, with discounts available for award finalists and Greater Shepparton Business Network (GSBN) members.

Tickets are available individually or as part of a table of 10. Each ticket includes a gourmet three-course dinner curated by The Woolshed at Emerald Bank, with beer, wine, and soft drinks, plus live entertainment from vocal chameleon Paul Lines.

This event is expected to sell out, so early booking is highly recommended. Join the Greater Shepparton business community for a truly memorable evening recognising the excellence that drives our region forward. Book your tickets through Riverlinks on 03 5832 9511 or go online to: https://riverlinksvenues.com.au/ whats-on/event-details/!/calendar/ event/2025-spc-business-excellence-awards

Linking Shepp to

La Spezia

Carla Stevens and Lucia Mazzoni share the same aspirations for their students – to experience culture, exchange ideas and create amazing learning opportunities.

The pair have partnered for more than a decade on cultural exchanges and are now focussed on forging a sister city relationship with Greater Shepparton and La Spezia, on the north Italian coast.

Carla is the Languages Domain Leader at Greater Shepparton Secondary College, while Lucia is her opposite number at the Istituto Vincenzo Cardarelli. Both are new secondary schools in cities of similar size.

Students, staff and chaperones at GSSC … the visitors’ school has a focus on the arts so this week they’ll experience Shepparton Art Museum, Tank’s gallery, Indigenous murals and of course, our Mooving Art.

This week, GSSC families are hosting Italian students –reuniting with local students who visited La Spezia last year. For Carla and Lucia, developing the relationship has great potential. La Spezia is known for its wine, olive oil, citrus farms and engineering opportunities as a naval port.

“There are low-cost study options in Italy and of course Shepparton has such a rich history of Italian settlement with our own food and wine industries,” Carla says.

“The exchange is at that wonderful stage where students are developing deep and lasting friendships for the future.”

Shepparton

GALA... The 2025 Greater Shepparton SPC Business Excellence Awards gala dinner, where category winners and the Hall of Fame award will be announced, will be held on October 24. Tickets are on sale now. Pictured is the crowd at the 2024 event. Photo: Emma Harrop

Greater Shepparton a growing region

More than a place

living in this part of the world - enjoying strong community roots.

GREATER Shepparton has proven to be a place to be, with continued appeal as a relocation destination. There has been a 229 per cent year-on-year increase in net internal relocations, driven largely by people moving from capital cities.

Greater Shepparton City Council Mayor, Councillor Shane Sali, said the surge highlights the growing appeal of Victoria’s regional cities but also exposes the urgent need for infrastructure investment to support growth.

“Greater Shepparton is growing faster than almost anywhere else in the country. People are choosing to live here and that’s something we should be proud of,” said Cr Sali.

The latest Regional Movers Index shows

regional Victoria attracted 23 per cent of all capital-to-region movers nationally, second only to New South Wales. While national mobility has slowed, inflows to Victoria’s regions remain 17 per cent above prepandemic levels, confirming a long-term shift in where Australians are choosing to live.

“But growth like this needs support. We can’t keep welcoming new residents without the roads, health services and enabling infrastructure,” Cr Sali said.

"In 2023, the State Government cut dedicated funding streams for regional growth, scrapping the Regional Jobs and Infrastructure Fund despite strong momentum across Victoria’s regional cities.

“We’ve lost key funding that helped us build

the infrastructure we need. We are calling on the State Government to urgently restore and expand funding for regional infrastructure to ensure Greater Shepparton remains competitive and liveable.

“Greater Shepparton is urging the Victorian State Government to invest in critical infrastructure and services to support its rapid growth.”

Top priorities include transport upgrades, improved public transport, and expanded health facilities such as the GV Health redevelopment and cancer care services. To ensure long-term sustainability, the region is also seeking support for advanced manufacturing and an enabling infrastructure fund to drive jobs and economic development.

We were founded directly from the efforts of Shepparton Rotary back in the 1960s when it became evident that if the community didn’t pull together to improve local options for aged care support, then nothing good was going to happen. More than 50 years down the track, Shepparton Villages today is home to around 700 residents, across three different sites, yet to this day we remain a proud not-for-profit organisation and hold tightly to the same “glue” that has held us together from the beginning, back in the days when we were quite small.

We believe retirement living is not just about finding a place to be – it’s about having a real sense of community, and being in a place where people can continue to thrive.

Hence our slogan “More than a place” – and hence the name of this column!

I look forward to chatting with you about ‘hot topics’ in contemporary retirement living and aged care that are close to all our hearts in future editions. Thanks for reading!

Find out more: www.sheppvillages.com.au Or call: (03) 5832 0800 Mon to Fri - 9am to 5pm

Portrait of a remarkable career

Dale Wright Portrait Maker celebrates 50 years in business

continued from front page

“I started working for another studio camera store way back in ‘69, when he closed up in 1975, I thought, I'll just work from home. But after a while, I realised there's more to this. So, I opened up a camera store and studio on High Street.”

“Then I thought, no, there's more to photography than just a 10 by 8 photo. I inquired more, searched more. From there on, I was always learning more and wanting to grow more.”

That desire to keep learning and growing saw Dale learn from some of the masters of the world on photography and keep adapting to an ever-changing landscape. Dale began in the days of black and white, saw the colour photograph revolution and the digital age, with the simple philosophy of maintaining the highest standard he could achieve.

He has photographed over 3,000 weddings, countless thousands of school children, political leaders on both sides of the ledger, and had the honour of photographing Sir Ernest Edward "Weary" Dunlop for his biography cover.

“I always laugh at this when I sit in bookshops and so forth, because on the back is my name, photo by Dale Wright. I look at the book’s thanks, my name is in there, and that man is the most famous man when it comes to compassion and love,” said Dale.

“But you know what the most important person is? A five-year-old kid. I would rather be with a five-year-old kid and just talk to them and photograph the innocence there. They are more important to me.”

There have been many changes in the photography landscape. The business has changed along with the technology, but what hasn’t changed is the exceptional standard Dale brings to his craft, helping bring treasured memories and wonderful moments to life, along with sad occasions.

“I want my legacy to be that I have kept the standard of quality, and I've maintained that high standard and reputation for 50 years. I will continue to do so. And I've been a dog with a bone all my life.”

50 YEARS IN BUSINESS... The desire to keep growing and learning from some of the masters of the world on photography and keep adapting to an ever-changing landscape is why Dale Wright Portrait Maker achieved the impression milestone of 50 years in business. Pictured is a young Dale with some of his many awards. Photo: Photo: Supplied

CINDERELLA SPINDERELLA

Cinderella Spinderella will be held at Riverlinks Eastbank on Wednesday, September 24, at 10.30am. An Interactive, educational, and fun production incorporating messages of safety, kindness and friendship.

Your children can enter a colouring competition chance to showcase their creativity and win one of five family passes (family of 4) to see the spectacular Cinderella Spinderella.

How to Enter:

1. Download the official colouring page from their website or collect from the Riverlinks Box Office.

2. Get creative and bring it to life with colour!

3. Submit your masterpiece by 4pm Friday September 19 for a chance to WIN!

Tickets to the performance are available in person, online or through the Riverlinks Box Office on 03 5832 9511. For the full selection of shows on offer, visit www. riverlinksvenues.com.au/whats-on.

DEER HUNTING IN VICTORIA

The State Government is expanding recreational hunting in East Gippsland, boosting tourism, supporting local jobs and helping control wild deer.

Minister for Outdoor Recreation

This will allow seasonal deer stalking in some 130,000 hectares of the two parks and means most public land in eastern Victoria will be available for recreational deer hunting.

For more information about game deer hunting, visit: gma.vic.gov.au/hunting/deer.

FILL A FORD FOR FOODSHARE!

Darryl Twitt Ford is joining the World’s Largest Dealer Food Drive this September, part of Ford’s Global Caring Month, with Shepparton Foodshare as a beneficiary. The campaign invites the community to donate non-perishable food items and “fill a Ford” at the dealership. Kyabram’s Jayell Ford is also collecting donations. Both locations will accept shelf stable items until September 25, 2025.

“We rely on generous donations to supply nutritious, culturally appropriate food to those who need it most,” said Shepparton Foodshare Executive Officer Dee Healey.

“We’re very grateful to Darryl Twitt Ford for helping us achieve this.”

High-need items include canned soups, pasta and sauces, cereal, jams, biscuits, and instant noodles.

Drop off locations are Darryl Twitt Ford, 325–329 Midland Hwy, Shepparton; or Jayell Ford, 5/9 Bradley St, Kyabram.

DRUGS SEIZED IN TOOLAMBA

A large-scale covert drug laboratory in the Shepparton area and a suitcase with nearly $1M cash alongside half a kilogram of cocaine located in a Bayside suburb are just two highlights in Victoria during a national week of action targeting illicit drug and organised crime activities.

On September 4, detectives from the Clandestine Laboratory Squad and

various chemicals and equipment. Including about 500kg of precursor chemicals and large quantities of methylamphetamine and MDMA. A 30-year-old Deer Park man was arrested and charged with a range of drug offences.

KIDSTOWN CONSULTATION

With Greater Shepparton City Council allocating funds to KidsTown after the recent community call to save the beloved adventure park, Council is now inviting residents to take part in consultation opportunities for the revitalisation of the region’s iconic playground.

The Information Sessions will be held at KidsTown on the following dates:

Session 1: September, Tuesday 23, between 11am and 1pm

Session 2: October, Thursday 2, between 4pm and 6pm

For more information and to participate, visit shepp.city/kidstown.

ADVISER IN THE RUNNING FOR TOP PRESS HONOURS

Finalists have been revealed for the 2025 Victorian Country Press Association (VCPA) and Country Press NSW awards, to be held Friday, October 24, at Yarrawonga.

This year’s awards attracted a record 670 entries across 19 categories, surpassing last year’s 546. The Shepparton Adviser is a finalist in two categories: Overall Newspaper Excellence (Free), which The Adviser won in 2024, and Best Locally Produced Advertising Campaign, for its Ask Addy road safety initiative with RoadSafe Goulburn Valley. VCPA chairman Jared Loughnan said the strong field reflected the dedication of regional newsrooms. “It’s fitting to acknowledge those mastheads and individuals included on the shortlist for this

FILL A FORD... Shelf-stable food items can be dropped off at Darryl Twitt Ford for the “Fill a Ford” food drive. Items will be donated to Shepparton Foodshare. The Adviser caught up with Darryl Twitt Motors Sales Manager Cameron Whitzell, Sales Consultant Stefan Vukelic, Foodshare Executive Officer Dee Healey, and Darryl Twitt Motors Dealer Principal Jason Sherlock. Photo: Deanne Jeffers

No red flag for disaster relief

LEADERSHIP took many forms during the October 2022 floods. With services spread thin across large parts of the state, and water cutting access to many roads, it quickly became apparent that the community needed to help each other rather than wait for support.

To empower Greater Shepparton to continue to grow in that space, the GSCC’s flood recovery team, Resilience in Recovery, hosted Jamie MacKenzie from Red Flag Leadership to deliver two free and impactful training opportunities for residents in July and August.

The Community Emergency Scenario Sessions built skills in local emergency response and planning for participants. The Answering the Call Leadership Course focused on leadership,

decision-making and communication in emergencies.

Director/Founder of Red Flag - Real Time Leadership Solutions, Jamie Mackenzie, was pleased with the engagement from all community members who participated in the programs.

“I think they realise that they can do it, you know, like it sort of takes that perspective. The agencies are usually a short strap with resources, and a lot going on. The community can do this, and they realise that they can,” said Jamie.

“That's part of the realisation. It's also the relationships built, particularly the leadership program, because it's two weekends, and you're working with small teams. And those relationships that you build, as we say, the relationships you build in peacetime will pay off in dividends when an event happens.”

The empowerment of the community has been the centre of what Resilience in Recovery does. They will continue to benefit Greater Shepparton when the next natural disaster event happens.

Truckie tax backlash

continued from front page

Chris Bowen [Minister for Climate Change and Energy] will be releasing the transport sector plans on decarbonisation very, very shortly, given the freight industry is 44 per cent of the overall transport emissions.

AT the conference, Senator McKenzie had strong words about the Commonwealth Government’s plans to increase the Heavy Vehicle Road User charge truck and bus drivers’ pay on diesel use.

“Speaking at the NAT Roads Conference, where trucking industry bodies have gathered from around the country to actually celebrate the industry, learn from each other, but also understand and appreciate a lot of the challenges and opportunities that the industry will be facing over coming years,” said Senator McKenzie.

“We know that Catherine King [Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government] and

“That is going to come as a heavy blow to an industry that is already under pressure with margins and cost increases. The Labor Party needs to come clean about how much it will cost our trucking industry to actually fulfil Labor's aggressive emissions targets.”

Heavy vehicle charges increased by 2.75 per cent in 2022-23, but the National Transport Commission has released options for the next three years that include 10 per cent annual rises, which would amount to a $2.6B tax on trucks.

RED FLAG... Resilience in Recovery hosted Jamie MacKenzie from Red Flag Leadership to deliver two free and impactful training opportunities for residents in July and August. The Community Emergency Scenario Sessions and the Answering the Call Leadership Course were well received by the community. Pictured is the group that took part in the Answering the Call training. Photo: Andrew Powell Compass Photography

Entertain in style with BBQs for every backyard

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SHEPPARTON

1925 2025

CENTENARY

BUILDING SHEPPARTON & REGIONAL VICTORIA FOR 100 YEARS

CELEBRATING 100 YEARS IN SHEPPARTON

Hansen Yuncken has a rich history spanning over 107 years, and this year, the company marks a truly significant milestone, the Shepparton office turns 100!

Established in 1925, Hansen Yuncken has played a defining role in shaping the built environment of the Goulburn Valley and surrounding regions. Over the past century, Hansen Yuncken has successfully, and continually, delivered a wide range of projects, reinforcing its deep commitment to regional Victoria, and the company continues to grow and develop its services.

Hansen Yuncken’s very first project was the Ardmona Cannery in Mooroopna , which commenced in 1925. This was followed closely by early works at the Shepparton Preserving Company (SPC) in 1926, a relationship that would span decades.

HY became involved in Shepparton and the cannery work by the government’s invitation, to provide the building needs for the development of the first canning businesses. SPC became a major client. Work was carried out during

the fruit growing period, and teams returned to Melbourne during the canning season. After the war years, an office was established in the SPC carpark with Frank Crowle as manager. A permanent office was established in Lockwood Road, Shepparton, in 1948. SPC remained a principal client for HY during their five-year rebuilding program. By 1960, immigration had boosted the need for new educational and health services, which resulted in increasing and changing new

work opportunities, not only in Shepparton, but in nearby areas like Swan Hill, Wagga Wagga, Seymour and Deniliquin.

To this day, the business’s culture retains its country feel and openness of old, and HY’s Shepparton-based teams continue to deliver landmark projects across residential, retail, education, justice, health, aged care, community infrastructure and industrial sectors, significantly contributing to regional Victoria’s development.

Some of the notable projects undertaken by Hansen Yuncken’s Shepparton office in recent times include:

• Goulburn Valley Base Hospital (1975) A new twostorey concrete reinforced building to accommodate nurses’ stations, patient wards, operating theatres, and a kitchen. Extensive underfloor services were installed, and later, a mortuary was added to the scope of works.

• SPC Cannery (1988) A 10,300m2 warehouse built for SPC Limited, featuring a 23,000-pallet storage capacity.

• Goulburn Valley Base Hospital (1998) A multi-staged hospital expansion and refurbishment undertaken while keeping the hospital fully operational. Works included a new emergency wing, a day procedures unit, midwifery wards and ICU modifications.

REGIONAL ROOTS... Hansen Yuncken’s fi rst project in the region was at the Ardmona Cannery in 1925, followed closely by early works at Shepparton Preserving Company (SPC). Pictured is construction at SPC in 1939. Photo: Supplied

A LEGACY OF EXCELLENCE

• Shepparton Police Station (2000) A new 24-hour police facility featuring custodial areas, a sheriff's office and administrative spaces. The project required demolishing an existing asbestos-contained building and removing underground fuel tanks to create a safer, more efficient justice precinct.

• Wodonga Police Station and Courts Complex (2002)

A new police station and courts complex that integrated Police Headquarters, cell blocks, four courtrooms and a sheriff's department into a high security twostorey complex.

• Bendigo Marketplace (2008)

A significant extension involving the construction of 50 new specialty stores, a new food court, amenities and 900 undercover and on-grade carparks, including upgrades to common areas and services.

• La Trobe University (2010) A 5-Star Green Star-rated education facility, incorporating greywater treatment, in-slab cooling and sustainable materials. The Shepparton campus includes flexible learning spaces, office areas, a cafe, landscaped exteriors, and a carpark.

• Echuca Regional Health Redevelopment (2015)

A two-staged project involving the demolition of a medical wing and construction of new surgical, medical, maternity, and paediatric wards, as well as a new subacute unit, and ED and Imaging Departments.

• Albury-Wodonga Regional Cancer Centre (2016)

A new 8,000m2, integrated Cancer Centre comprised of a day oncology unit, three radiotherapy bunkers, a 30-bed inpatient ward, a Wellness Centre, and dedicated children’s treatment space, 17 consulting rooms plus a pharmacy. Internal courtyards, covered walkways, and a radical new design provides inviting spaces to support patient wellbeing.

ESTABLISHED IN 1925, HANSEN YUNCKEN HAS PLAYED A DEFINING ROLE IN SHAPING THE BUILT ENVIRONMENT OF THE GOULBURN VALLEY AND SURROUNDING REGIONS

• Bull Street (Justice Precinct) Redevelopment (2014)

A former Victorian Police Headquarters in Bendigo was repurposed to house the Justice Service Centre, consisting of a Magistrate’s Court, interview rooms and secure holding areas.

• Shepparton Law Courts Redevelopment (2019) A heritage restoration of the 1930s Shepparton Courthouse, creating Victoria’s first specialist family violence facility, following recommendations from the 2016 Royal Commission into Family Violence.

• Greater Shepparton Secondary College (2021) The largest education project in Shepparton’s history, designed to accommodate 2,700 students. The state-of-the-art facility features a ‘school within a school’ model, with smaller learning ‘neighbourhoods’ and a specialist Enterprise & Innovation Centre for STEM, the Arts, and music.

• Puckapunyal Live In Accommodation (2023) This

rapid-build defence project saw the delivery of three new Live In Accommodation buildings, each with 37 sole occupancy unit bedrooms, shared common areas and facilities, plus landscaping and shared outdoor entertainment facilities.

• Spotlight Retail Development (2024) A multi-tenant retail development spanning 38,654m2, with six retail showrooms, major fitouts and significant civil works. The project also included modifications to an existing building to create additional retail spaces.

• Goulburn Valley Health Doctors Accommodation (2026) Currently in construction, this purpose-built accommodation facility is designed to support medical professionals working in the region, helping strengthen Shepparton’s healthcare sector.

CONGRATULATIONS

CURRENT WORKS... Pictured are members of the 25 Year Club at the site of the new Doctors Accommodation project being constructed at GV Health. Pictured L-R: Gabby Robinett (1996 - current), Chris Limosani (1988 - current), Bill Robinson (1968 - 2017), Jason Cox (1999 - current), and Graeme Spence (1984 - 2024). Photo: Supplied

JASON COX, REGIONAL MANAGER THE TEAM BEHIND THE BUILD

“Hansen Yuncken’s continued support of a regional office over the course of 100 continuous years defines its commitment to commercial building throughout regional Victoria and is a testimony to the ongoing relationships with trade contractors and suppliers across the centennial,” Jason said.

“Our Shepparton foundations were laid during the growth of the Goulburn Valley fruit industry, which subsequently provided opportunities to expand from a cannery contractor into various forms of commercial construction.

“Flexibility remains our strength, demonstrated by our work with Defence, Education, Health/ Aged Care, Industrial and Justice projects, particularly over the more recent, 50 years,” said Jason. He highlighted several key, recent achievements that exemplify HY’s work, such as:

Jason Cox is the current Regional Manager for Hansen Yuncken’s operations in Victoria, and he has been with the company for 26 years, also serving as an estimator. He said the 100-year milestone for Hansen Yuncken is a fantastic achievement, one that sets Hansen Yuncken apart from all other major commercial building contractors in Victoria.

• Delivering the 6-star Green Star La Trobe University campus, several stages of work at Goulburn Valley Health and the $140M Greater Shepparton Secondary College

“All of these projects were constructed with local trades, suppliers, and long-serving staff who were able to adapt to the differing demands of various forms of construction,” said Jason.

FROM THE DAYS WHEN HY SHEPPARTON EMPLOYED 40 CARPENTERS, JOINERS AND PLUMBERS, TO THE CURRENT SUBCONTRACTING APPROACH, IT HAS ALWAYS BEEN OUR STAFF WHO HAVE WORKED HARD TO DELIVER SUCCESSFUL PROJECTS

• Being awarded ‘Victorian Commercial Builder of the Year’ for the Wangaratta Performing Arts Centre

• Completing the $50M Echuca Regional Health redevelopment, and the successful Live In Accommodation project at Puckapunyal Military Base.

Cooke & Dowsett Plumbing Group

With over 30 years of experience, Cooke & Dowsett has proudly delivered exceptional service across many of Australia’s most iconic construction projects. Our expertise spans a wide range of sectors including accommodation, commercial, defence, education, health, infrastructure, retail, and sports and leisure.

Our continued growth is driven by a clear strategic vision, a passion for innovation, and a commitment to values that extend beyond financial success. We champion diversity, remain commercially aware, and stay attuned to the evolving needs of the industry. Synonymous with quality and reliability, Cooke & Dowsett is proud to partner with industry leaders, including our long-standing collaboration with Hansen Yuncken - a relationship we look forward to strengthening for many years to come.

“Our strength as a partner, our ability to take on a challenge, our willingness to work equitably and fairly with all parties is evident by a trend of people becoming long term staff members who have continued to work with HY throughout our 100 year history.

“It’s the people that make the business what it is, from the Board, Senior Management, to our site delivery teams. From the days when HY Shepparton employed 40 carpenters, joiners and plumbers, to the current subcontracting approach, it has always been our staff who have worked hard to deliver successful projects.

“This is a consistent theme across the decades of constructing projects in regional Victoria and continues to be the strength that will deliver our regional work well into the future.”

Looking ahead, into the next century of Hansen Yuncken, Jason said the company expects to continue building its regional presence for and with local trades, utilising technological advancements to further add value to construction outcomes for its clients.

JASON COX HANSEN YUNCKEN REGIONAL MANAGER

LOUISE HANSEN, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Louise Hansen has been with Hansen Yuncken for more than 30 years and has served as Executive Director since 2013. She said she is incredibly proud to be part of HY’s enduring legacy in regional Victoria.

“The story began with the delivery of significant cannery projects across the region, often undertaken concurrently during the growing season, and led to the establishment of a permanent office in Shepparton,” Ms Hansen said. “Since then, the regional business has grown to serve a vast area of northern Victoria and southern New South Wales.”

BY MAINTAINING OUR CULTURE, DRIVE AND AMBITION, WE WILL CONTINUE TO GROW AND ADJUST ACCORDING TO THE CHANGING NEEDS OF CLIENTS AND COMMUNITIES

PETER HANSEN OAM

PETER HANSEN OAM, OWNER & FORMER CHAIRMAN

Peter Hansen OAM is a shared owner of the business. He retired in June 2025 after 68 years with Hansen Yuncken, including 62 as Director.

Reflecting on HY’s 100-year history, Peter emphasised the importance of ensuring the firm has both the people and

She highlighted the strength of HY’s regional teams: “We are delivering fantastic projects for our clients with dedicated, experienced local teams. The backing of our larger national business sets us apart, allowing us to support local industry while building strong teams. Greater Shepparton Secondary College is a great example of what we can achieve in the regions, while also giving back to the community.”

Looking ahead, Ms Hansen said HY will continue to expand its capacity “to win interesting projects and develop talent across the regions.”

the culture to drive ambition and secure long-term success.

“By maintaining our culture, drive and ambition, we will continue to grow and adjust according to the changing needs of clients and communities,” said Peter. “We intend to be here for the long term.”

Hansen Yuncken

THE TEAM BEHIND THE BUILD

RICHARD HANSEN, HANSEN YUNCKEN COCHAIR/EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

With 30 years at Hansen Yuncken, Richard Hansen has a life-long connection with HY, being a fourthgeneration employee holding many roles from project coordinator, to state manager and executive director.

“We’re very proud of our 100-year commitment to Shepparton and regional Victoria,” said Richard, who referenced Greater Shepparton Secondary College as a highlight during his tenure.

WE’RE VERY PROUD OF OUR 100YEAR COMMITMENT TO SHEPPARTON AND REGIONAL VICTORIA,

“We are part of the community; we don’t come and go. We understand how things are different in the country, and this is something that sets Hansen Yuncken apart.”

Maintaining this enduring commitment to Shepparton and regional Victoria remains a priority for the firm. “We will continue to support local businesses, employ local people, and seek to undertake the most noteworthy projects in regional Victoria,” Richard said.

CHRIS LIMOSANI, SITE MANAGER

Chris Limosani began his career with Hansen Yuncken 34 years ago as an apprentice carpenter. Since then, he has worked his way through roles as a qualified carpenter and foreman before becoming a site manager.

“It’s been fantastic working for Hansen Yuncken for 34 years and being part of the 100-year celebration,” Chris said. “Hansen Yuncken has been the leading regional builder in

Shepparton for a century, employing some fantastic local people. Along the way we’ve won multiple awards, built strong relationships with local trades, and created plenty of memories and friendships, while having some fun along the way too.”

Chris counts his standout achievements as helping deliver community landmarks across the region in health, aged care, defence,

Congratulations to Hansen Yuncken

on an extraordinary 100 years in Shepparton and the Goulburn Valley.

Working alongside them has been a privilege; their commitment to craftsmanship and pursuit of excellence perfectly aligns with our own values.

If it was not for their dedication and efficiency, we would not have opened on time.

Working with Hansen Yuncken has been a fantastic experience, reflecting a partnership truly equipped to serve our community.

Their professionalism, innovation, and commitment to quality echo the dedication we uphold.

Hansen Yuncken’s century-long legacy is truly inspiring, and we are proud to have them as a trusted builder and partner.

education, and essential services.

Among the many projects he has

worked on, highlights include Greater Shepparton Secondary College, Shepparton Villages Maculata Place, the Echuca Regional Health Redevelopment, and the Bendigo Police Station, noted for its unique design and collaborative approach with subcontractors.

Looking ahead, Chris said, “Hansen Yuncken will continue to build quality regional landmarks, embrace new technologies, and support the next generation of HY employees coming through.”

Our low-fee co-educational school offers outstanding teaching and learning in a caring, Christian environment.

Email: info@allsaints.vic.edu.au Phone: 5825 0000 320 Verney Road, Shepparton North www.allsaints.vic.edu.au

HELEN LIMOSANI, LONGTIME STAFF

MEMBER AT HANSEN YUNCKEN SHEPPARTON

Helen has been a valued member of Hansen Yuncken for 19 years, joining the Shepparton team in July 2006. Over her tenure, she has held a variety of roles, including Receptionist, Project Coordinator, Contract Administrator, HOTO Manager, Quality Manager, and Project Administrator.

“I am proud to work for a reputable, family-run company, and to be celebrating this incredible 100-year milestone,” Helen said. “Our longevity in the region is a testament to our people, our local subcontractors, and our clients.”

Helen has found working in multiple roles deeply satisfying, allowing her to contribute to a wide range of projects. Standout achievements include local Shepparton projects such as Greater Shepparton Secondary College, which holds personal significance as she was a former Shepparton High School student; Shepparton Villages Maculata Place, an outstanding aged care development; the challenging and rewarding Echuca Health

Redevelopment; her first project, Darley Horse Stud; and the Andrew Hammer Pavilion relocation and rebuild, where she played a key role.

Looking ahead, Helen sees a bright future for HY’s regional operations. “The business continues to grow and deliver strong community infrastructure,” she said.

“What sets HY apart as a regional builder is our longevity, strong community ties, and excellent relationships with local subcontractors,” Helen added. “I’ve made lifelong friends here and enjoyed having fun along the way.”

GABBY ROBINETT, CONTRACT ADMINISTRATOR

With 29 years at Hansen Yuncken, Gabby Robinett has built a long and rewarding career across roles including Project Coordinator, Junior Contract Administrator, and Senior Contract Administrator.

Reflecting on Hansen Yuncken’s centenary, Gabby said the milestone holds, “deep historical significance that warrants recognition and celebration. This wonderful achievement marks our contribution and accomplishments that have left, and continue to leave, a lasting impact on our local community.”

Having been part of Hansen Yuncken’s regional operations for nearly a third of the company’s 100 years in Shepparton, Gabby is proud to have contributed to projects that have shaped communities across northern Victoria. These include schools, hospitals, aged care centres, police stations, court complexes, defence facilities, and civic buildings across Shepparton, Bendigo, Echuca, Nathalia, Tatura, Deniliquin, Benalla, Wodonga,

Wangaratta, Euroa, Beechworth, Seymour, Puckapunyal and Alexandra.

Among her standout achievements, Gabby highlights the Echuca Regional Health Redevelopment, the Greater Shepparton Secondary College, and coordinating the delivery of five ambulance stations in Bendigo built simultaneously—a challenging but rewarding feat.

She believes HY’s success is built on people: “The dedication and commitment of our local staff, along with strong community ties and longstanding relationships with subcontractors, suppliers and clients, have enabled HY to achieve this milestone. I’m proud to be part of such a great regional team.”

BILL ROBINSON, FORMER

SHEPPARTON MANAGER AND CONSTRUCTION MANAGER

Bill began his career with Hansen Yuncken Shepparton in January 1969 as an apprentice carpenter, completing his apprenticeship in June 1973. He then travelled across Australia, working in the construction industry in Queensland, the Northern Territory, and Western Australia, before returning to Victoria as a subcontract carpenter. In 1979, Bill rejoined Hansen Yuncken in Shepparton, where he remained until retirement, holding roles including carpenter, site manager, general supervisor, Shepparton manager, and construction manager.

“Hansen Yuncken has been in Shepparton for 100 years, and I don’t believe any other builder can claim that,” Bill said. “This milestone is something we can all be proud of. It reflects the strength, skill, and dedication of everyone who has worked here over the years.”

Reflecting on his early career, Bill

TIDDLES, THE SHEPP CAT

said, “As an apprentice and later a carpenter, I was fortunate to work with people willing to teach me every aspect of the trade. When I finished my apprenticeship, I told my supervisor that I wanted to travel and he replied saying that’s a good idea, but when you work with other companies, make sure you pick up all their new ideas and

In 2008, Tiddles (aka “The Shepp Cat”), first turned up at Hansen Yuncken’s yard as a young stray poking around the shipping containers. After a few friendly pats and the offerings of the odd leftover lunch, Tiddles knew that she had found her people, becoming a permanent visitor to the yard.

She quickly worked out that an open door meant food and comfortable places to lounge and sleep (and hide), especially in her favourite human’s office. Filing trays, office chairs and construction drawings are her favourite places to rest. Tiddles went on to develop a morning routine, often seen sitting on the wheelie bin awaiting the first person to arrive to let her in. Upon hearing a car, or a person entering the office she would race to the front door.

Sixteen years on, Tiddles is a permanent member of

THIS MILESTONE IS SOMETHING WE CAN ALL BE PROUD OF. IT REFLECTS THE STRENGTH, SKILL, AND DEDICATION OF EVERYONE WHO HAS WORKED HERE OVER THE YEARS

the HY team. She has survived the early days of being whisked into hiding during visits from senior managers before being accepted as, “The Shepp Cat.” She has even outlived a venomous snake bite from a King Brown during the October 2022 floods, proving she is made of tough stuff. These days Tiddles prefers her indoor retirement life to the outdoors, where she enjoys lounging near a window to keep an eye on the comings and goings of the yard.

bring them back so we can use them, which I did.”

Bill added, “Hansen Yuncken’s Regional Victoria operations can draw on national resources when needed. I’m confident the company will continue to thrive, embracing new technologies and innovative building practices.”

THE TEAM BEHIND THE BUILD

I RECALL DURING THE EARLIER YEARS, PETER AND NEROLI HANSEN WOULD VISIT EVERY SITE ONCE A YEAR. BACK THEN, HY HAD THEIR OWN CARPENTERS, PLUMBERS, PAINTERS, AND EVEN A BOBCAT AND CRANE TRUCK

GRAEME “SPANNA” SPENCE FORMER HANSEN YUNCKEN SITE MANAGER

Graeme Spence, known as “Spanna” on-site, has worked with Hansen Yuncken most of his career. He began as a carpenter in 1984 and progressed to Foreman and Site Manager.

“I feel very proud to have worked for Hansen Yuncken,” he said. “I have enjoyed working for a family company who use local subbies as much as they could. They reward staff for their loyalty and have a 25 Year Club, and very importantly, they look after the client.”

“I recall during the earlier years, Peter and Neroli Hansen would visit every site once a year. Back then, HY had their own carpenters, plumbers, painters, and even a bobcat and crane truck.”

Graeme said that standout achievements are Baringa Day Care Centre for the Association of the Blind,

the psychiatric unit at GV Health, and the Bendigo Ambulance Maintenance Depot.

“That was an unbelievable job due to the vast amount of jack hammering to remove a huge amount of rock,” said Graeme. “The big school, Greater Shepparton Secondary College, was a real feather in the cap. Another important project was the Bendigo TAFE Health and Community Centre of Excellence, it was challenging, and I enjoyed working with a young and enthusiastic project team.

“I hope HY continue to work in regional Victoria, as they are a very good company with high standards.”

FIRM ROOTS IN THE REGIONS

Hansen Yuncken’s story may be widely known across Australia, but its roots run particularly deep in regional Victoria, none more so than in Shepparton. While the founding partnership between Otto Yuncken and Lauritz Hansen was forged in 1918, it was just seven years later, in 1925, that their sights turned north to the Goulburn Valley, building canneries during the growing season and later opening its permanent office in Shepparton to meet the growing needs of the flourishing fruit and dairy industry.

This move laid the foundation for a century of contributions to the local community, industry and built environment, proudly established a century ago.

One of HY’s earliest commissions was building the Shepparton Preserving Company (SPC), with repeat work quickly following from major names such as Ardmona Foods, Kyabram Cannery, Campbells Soups, and Shepparton Butter Factory. The seasonal nature of the canning industry meant construction had to be completed strictly outside production windows – a challenge met with precision and unwavering reliability. It was a time

ONE OF HY’S EARLIEST COMMISSIONS WAS BUILDING THE SHEPPARTON PRESERVING COMPANY

when reputation was everything, and Hansen Yuncken became synonymous with trust and quality across the Goulburn Valley.

HY worked with prominent developers like Sir Andrew Fairley (a Director of SPC), who led major developments across the Shepparton CBD. Even then, no matter the client or scope, the firm’s commitment to supporting local industries came first.

It wasn’t until after the Second World War the office commenced work in a “normal” fashion. At this time, it was not unusual for the Shepparton operation to employ a large team – in peak periods, the

workforce was in excess of 40 carpenters, and over the years came to directly employ teams of plumbers, plasterers, joiners (including a joinery shop) and metalworkers. These traditional trades were retained well into the ‘80s.

As the fruit industry gradually declined, HY’s work naturally evolved and began expanding into broader commercial construction, servicing towns like Tatura, Nathalia, Kyabram, Merrigum and Mooroopna. It was during this shift that HY cemented its reputation as the go-to builder in the Goulburn Valley.

As a result of this growth, opportunities emerging in northern Victoria and southern NSW, in 2006 Hansen Yuncken commenced operating from Albury whilst maintaining our office and yard in Shepparton. This ‘can do’ reputation continues today, as HY regionally build hospitals, schools, aged care facilities, prisons, industrial and retail projects, local government projects and more. Hansen Yuncken continues to employ local trades and suppliers on its projects to ensure many of the benefits of large-scale construction are shared by the local community.

A Century Celebrated in Shepparton

100 years of building in Shepparton is a milestone worth celebrating.

FOOTT is proud to support Hansen Yuncken as they continue to shape the Goulburn Valley and build with vision for the future.

FRUITING SUCCESS... Hansen Yuncken’s earliest work in the Goulburn Valley 100 years ago was assisting the emerging fruit canning industries, with the construction of SPC, pictured here in 1939. Photo: Supplied

A TRUSTED HEALTHCARE PARTNER

The turning point in Hansen Yuncken’s regional journey came in 1975 with the awarding of the firm’s very first project for Goulburn Valley Health (GVH): the construction of a new Goulburn Valley Base Hospital. Valued at $4.5M at the time, it was considered a major investment. While the figure may now raise eyebrows, the scale and complexity of the works were anything but modest. Designed by the highly regarded architectural firm, Yuncken Freeman, this multi-stage development marked HY’s entry into the healthcare sector, one that would go on to define their work in the region.

Project Manager Keith Thomas and Foreman Wolfgang Kalveram relocated from Melbourne to oversee the build, reflecting the importance HY places on continuity, collaboration and quality delivery. The hospital remained fully operational throughout construction, requiring careful staging and coordination –an approach that has since become second nature to HY, particularly on complex live environments like the Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital.

The experience wasn’t without its lighter moments. As Wolfgang fondly recalls, the keys were handed over to the hospital and presented in none other than a hospital bed pan – a cheeky gesture from one of the staff. “That was different,” he laughed.

Thankfully, the bed pan was clean. It’s these human touches, the moments of humour and connection, that stay with staff long after the final handover.

Spanning three years, this landmark project delivered a reinforced concrete two-storey hospital with nurses’ stations, patient wards, operating theatres, kitchens, and a mortuary. It laid the groundwork –quite literally – for what would become a long and trusted partnership with GVH.

In 1996, HY were once again called upon by GVH to undertake a significant hospital expansion and refurbishment. Over 18 months, the firm delivered upgrades to the emergency wing, day procedure units, midwifery wards, and ICU – all while the hospital remained in full operation. This

project showcased HY's ability to stage works efficiently while prioritising patient care and clinical functionality.

Then in 2000, HY completed a fast-tracked refurbishment of the hospital’s psychiatric lounge – a two-month program that required immense care, coordination, and sensitivity. To ensure patient and staff safety, HY designed and constructed temporary access tunnels, shielding the unit from disruption while maintaining hospital functionality. This early example of humancentred construction reflected the values that Hansen Yuncken continues to uphold on every health project today.

Further works followed in 2005 with the $10M redevelopment of the Emergency and Ambulatory Care Departments.

Delivered over seven stages, this project required surgical precision in planning and execution. HY's team worked side by side with consultants and hospital management to rethink and re-sequence staging, ensuring critical services remained accessible and uninterrupted – a testament to the strong trust they had built with GVH over decades.

SUPPORTING FUTURE GENERATIONS OF HEALTHCARE WORKERS

Nearly 50 years since Hansen Yuncken first broke ground at GVH, their journey together continues with the Doctors Accommodation project awarded in 2025.

The build is being delivered in two stages, each funded by different government bodies – Stage 1 by the Victorian Government’s Regional Health Infrastructure Fund and

Stage 2 through the Regional Worker Accommodation Fund. Combined, this purpose-built facility will accommodate up to 39 medical professionals – offering a mix of high-quality single and double self-contained units just moments from the main campus.

More than just bricks and mortar, this project represents

the next chapter in a long-standing relationship founded on trust, shared values and a mutual commitment to improving healthcare in regional Victoria. It’s an investment in people – supporting the attraction and retention of frontline medical staff and securing the future of care in Shepparton.

GV Health in 1975.
Photo: Supplied
Progress photo of development of GV Health base hospital, circa 1996. Photo: Supplied

1925-2025: HANSEN YUNCKEN’S 100

OTTO YUNCKEN, COMPANY CO-FOUNDER & DIRECTOR

Otto was born in Lyndoch, South Australia in 1865. He moved to Melbourne in 1885 establishing Hansen Yuncken with Lauritz Hansen in 1918. Otto was instrumental in the start up of the Shepparton projects due to his working arrangements with Glad Askew, the architect for SPC and other fruit industry clients. In August 1925, Otto Yuncken signed the first major contract in regional Victoria with Ardmona Fruit Products Pty Ltd, undertaking the warehouse works for the SPC Ardmona Cannery in Mooroopna.

HARTLEY HANSEN, DIRECTOR IN CHARGE (1945-1960)

Hartley joined HY after finishing school in 1914. He worked in estimation and construction supervision roles accumulating his skills in regional Victoria before being appointed as Director with responsibility for the Shepparton office in 1945.

1925 – 1959 Shepparton Preserving Co, Shepparton Vic, various projects (x 34): timber frame factory & timber cool rooms, refrigerated plant rooms, factory extensions and alterations, warehouses, main office and Canberra House alterations and hostel huts for a

women’s hostel. 1925 - 1957 Ardmona Food Products Cannery, Mooroopna Vic, Various projects: new timber frame factory and cool rooms, refrigeration plant room, factory extensions, main office. 1929 – 1950 Kyabram Preserving Company, Kyabram Vic, Various

projects: cannery extensions, cool rooms, refrigerated engine rooms, main office and dining/canteen building

1936 Terminus Hotel, Shepparton Vic, hotel extensions

1938 Shepparton Butter Factory, Shepparton Vic, factory extension and alterations

(1925 – 1930)

1925 Ardmona Food Products Cannery. Various projects including: new timber factory, new cool rooms 1925 – 1929 Shepparton Preserving Co. Various projects including: timber frame factory, timber cool rooms, factory extensions, packing rooms 1930 Kyabram Preserving Company, Kyabram. cannery extensions.

FRANK CROWLE, SHEPPARTON MANAGER (1945 – 1954)

Frank joined HY in 1931, served as a Lt Colonel in World War II, and led the Shepparton branch from 1946. Renowned for his leadership and fairness, he managed major postwar regional expansions and supported many local industry associations.

1925 – 1929 Shepparton Preserving Co, Shepparton Vic, various projects: timber frame factory 1929 – 1950 Kyabram Preserving Company, Kyabram Vic, Various projects: cannery extensions, cool rooms, refrigerated engine rooms, main office and dining/canteen building

1953 Cleckheaton Wool Mills, Shepparton Vic, brick factory extensions

YEAR HISTORY IN REGIONAL VICTORIA

FRANK HANSEN, DIRECTOR IN CHARGE (1955 – 1967)

1955 – 1967 Shepparton Preserving Co, Shepparton Vic, various projects: sugar room extensions, cool room construction, factory extension

1955 -1967 Cleckheaton Wool

Mills Shepparton, Tatura and Mooroopna Vic, Various projects: factory extensions, engineers shop, living quarter constructions

1961 Wheeler Street Post Office, Shepparton Vic, Divisional Store and Line Depot

1959 Shepparton Co-operative Butter Factory, Shepparton Vic, Extension to warehousing

1962 Mooroopna District

Hospital laundry extension

HOTEL CONSTRUCTION IN VARIOUS LOCATIONS:

1963 Victora Hotel, Shepparton, alterations and additions

1955 Courthouse Hotel, Shepparton, alterations and additions

1966 Overlander Hotel, Shepparton

1967 “Blue Hotel” (now known as Blue Brick Hotel), Kyabram, repairs

INDUSTRIAL PROJECTS:

1958 & 1960 Cleckheaton Yorkshire, Shepparton. Various projects: extension to living quarters & dining rooms, brick extension to woollen factory, knitting mills, extension to

engineers shop and 1 bay of factory

1962 Stuarts Bacon Factory, Shepparton. Factory extension and new cool rooms

1965 & 1960 Cleckheaton Yorkshire, Mooroopna. Various: Alterations and extensions to factory

1967 Shepparton Butter Factory, Shepparton. Laboratory

1967 Tatura Milk, Tatura. Various projects: main office and alternations to laboratory, office and factory extension, evaporator and spray dryer. 1962 1967, J Furphy and Sons, Shepparton. Various: extension to foundry, brick additions, 1957 & 1965 Northern Pear Growers, Mooroopna. Various projects: Factory, cool rooms, engine room, alterations to factory 1963, 1965 & 1966 Tatura Milk, Tatura. Various: Extension to packing department, main office and alterations to laboratory, extension to spray dryer room, evaporator and spray dryer room 1961 Carnation Factory, Merrigum. Various: Warehouse extension, roof and floor replacement 1960, 1961 & 1965 Rochester Butter Factory, Rochester. Various: Extension and alterations, spray powder plant and warehouse, engine room, cool room and warehousing.

MAX HANSEN, DIRECTOR IN CHARGE (1968 – 1974)

1969 Shepparton Preserving Co, Shepparton. Cool store, cannery, warehouse, case shed

1969 Cleckheatons Wool Mills, Benalla Vic

1971 Shepparton State Office State Government, Shepparton. New office block cnr Wyndham & Vaughan Streets.

1973 Hotel Australia, Shepparton. Alterations and additions to ground floor, bars and dining room

1974 40 house subdivision, Logan and McRae Estate Shepparton. Construction of 40 houses

1975 Bank of NSW, Shepparton. Alterations

CONTINUED WORK WITH INDUSTRIAL PARTNERS:

1968 - 1969 Shepparton Preserving Company, Shepparton. Various: Roofing between cool stores, brick walls to case shed, cool storage, canning processing area, warehouse 1968 Shepparton Butter Factory, Shepparton. Casein room, piggery, extension to stores receival area.

1971 Mooroopna Butter Factory, Mooroopna

1969 1970, J Furphy and Sons, Shepparton Vic, Extensions to factory.

1968, 1970, 1971 & 1973 Tatura

Statewide Panels team proudly congratulates Hansen Yuncken on a century of innovation, integrity, and leadership in the construction industry.

We’re honoured to have contributed during these years in delivering high-quality precast concrete panels for significant projects across the region, including Shepparton Villages, Greater Shepparton Secondary College, Puckapunyal Accommodation, Spotlight Retail development Shepparton, All Saints Anglican School and Goulburn Valley Health Accommodation.

Milk, Tatura Vic. Amenities and workshop building, roller and spray dryer rooms, laboratory.

1969 Cleckheaton Yorkshire – Benalla.

1968, 1970 & 1974 Dundas Simpson Orchards Mooroopna Vic. Extension to packing shed and cool rooms, Cool store.

1969, 1970 & 1971 Girgarre Cheese Factory, Girgarre Vic. Factory extension.

EDUCATION WORKS COMMENCED:

1969 Shepparton Technical School, Shepparton Vic.

1970 St Colemans School, Shepparton Vic. Extension to college. 1972 St Brendans School, Shepparton Vic. Brick classroom

1973 Sacred Heart School, Shepparton Vic. Library, Art Centre, Typing Room.

JIM LODGE - A DEFINING

JIM LODGE, SHEPPARTON MANAGER (1955 – 1985)

This three-decade period marked a defining chapter for Hansen Yuncken in Shepparton. Under Jim Lodge’s leadership, the business expanded well beyond its industrial base, taking on a growing portfolio of commercial projects. It was a time of diversification and consolidation, as the company broadened both the type of work it delivered and the geographic reach of its operations—spreading steadily throughout the Goulburn Valley.

1957 Northern Pear Growers, Mooroopna Vic. Factory and cool rooms

1958 Shepparton Preserving Co. Shepparton Vic. Boiler House, Shepparton

1958 Fairleys / Gaylard Bros, Shepparton Vic. Alterations to Fairleys store.

1960 Victoria Hotel, Shepparton Vic. Part demolition, extension of building and refurbishment of bars, bedrooms and bathrooms

1961 Wheeler St Post Office, Shepparton Vic. First project for Commonwealth of Australia

1965 Shepparton Sewage Pump Station. Major Council infrastructure

1966 Kyabram Preserving Co., Kyabram Vic, Church Street warehouse

1969 Shepparton Preserving Co., Shepparton Vic. Cool store, cannery, warehouse, case shed

1974 40 house subdivision, Logan and McRae Estate Shepparton Vic. construction of 40 houses

1978 State Electricity Commission, Shepparton Vic. Wheeler Street Offices and extensions and alterations to existing buildings

1978 Sherbourne Private Hospital (now known as Shepparton Private Hospital),

Shepparton Vic. A 54-bed private hospital including site and civil works, and the construction of a single storey building complete with all services

1979 Goulburn Valley Base Hospital, Shepparton Vic. A public hospital of two-storey reinforced concrete on piles, complete with a full range of hospital facilities

1982 Seven Creeks Run, Euroa Vic. A theme park and cultural centre comprising traditional Australian structures including wool shed, assembly hall and amphitheatre

1984 Electrolux Factory & Offices, Shepparton Vic. Relocation of the Electrolux Group to a new factory, warehouse and office complex.

INDUSTRIAL PROJECTS

Works continued for SPC (77 projects), Shepp Butter Factory (10 project), Cleckheatons 13 projects), but expanded to Peters Ice Cream (7 projects), Tatura Milk (11 projects), J Furphys & Sons (4 projects), Campbell Soups (5 projects), Mooroopna Flour Mills (2 projects), Geoffrey Thomspon Cool Stores (4 projects), Dundas Orchards (7 projects).

HOTEL PROJECTS

1959, 1964 & 1975 Shepparton Club. Extensions, alterations and additions

1966 & 1971 Overlander Hotel, Shepparton Vic. New Hotel and motel, additions. 1964, 1966, 1971 & 1974 Shepparton Hotel, various alterations, new bottle shop. 1955, 1956, 1958 & 1973 Terminus

Hotel Shepparton Vic. Various alterations and extensions

1973 Australia Hotel Shepparton Vic. Major alterations to ground

floor bars and dining room

1980 Cricketers Arms Hotel, Mooroopna Vic.

RETAIL PROJECTS

1964, 1968, & 1972 Fairleys, Shepparton Vic. Alternations to shop front, roadway and minor alterations 1967, 1970 & 1975 Ellis Gough (Real Estate) Shepparton Vic. Brick offices and shops, Wyndham Street offices, alterations to residence. 1961, 1966, 1967, 1968, 1969, 1970, 1971, 1973, 1979 & 1981 W H Young and Sons, Shepparton Vic. Various workshop and warehouse projects, alterations and extensions

LOCAL PROJECTS

1958 Shepparton Bowling Club, Shepparton VIC. Extension to club rooms.

1962 City of Greater Shepparton, Shepparton VIC. Deakin Reserve Grandstand 1976 & 1983 Shepparton Trotting Club Grandstand, Shepparton VIC. Tiered seating and bookies ring.

STATE PROJECTS

1959 Radio Australia Offices, Shepparton VIC. Extension, basement, delivery docks. Schools

1967, 1973, 1978 & 1979 Sacred Heart College Shepparton VIC. Conversion of convent to school rooms, Library, Art Centre, Typing Room, double storey classrooms and alterations. Dookie College classrooms, Dookie VIC St Brendans Primary School, Shepparton VIC

St Mels Primary School, Shepparton VIC

St Marys Primary Schools,

Mooroopna and Nathalia VIC Goulburn Valley Grammar School, Shepparton VIC

SURROUNDING DISTRICTS PROJECTS

1960 Kyabram Primary School, Kyabram VIC 1961 & 1965 Rochester Butter Factory, Rochester VIC. Extensions and alterations, warehousing, engine and cool room.

1959 Younghusband Ltd Echuca Shops, Echuca VIC, new shops and storage.

1958 Imperial War Graves Commission, Tatura VIC. German War Cemetery and Memorial. 1969, 1970 & 1971 Girgarre Factory and Shops, Girgarre VIC. Warehousing and extensions.

1964 Tongala Milk Factory, Tongala VIC. Extension.

1964 Kyabram Free Press, Kyabram VIC.

1967 “Blue Hotel” (now known as Blue Brick Hotel), Kyabram, repairs

1960, 1963 & 1972 Victoria Hotel, Nagambie VIC. Part demolition, extensions, refurbishments and repairs.

1982 Seven Creeks Run, Euroa Vic.

A theme park and cultural centre comprising traditional Australian structures including wool shed, assembly hall and amphitheatre.

PETER HANSEN, DIRECTOR IN CHARGE (1975 - 1984)

KEY PROJECTS

1979 Goulburn Valley Base Hospital, Shepparton Vic. a public hospital of two-storey reinforced concrete on piles, complete with a full range of hospital facilities 1977 St Brendan’s Primary School, Shepparton Vic. New assembly hall

1980 IBIS Milk Products, Stanhope Vic. The project involved alterations to the existing building and the provision of structure, base and services for the spray dryer evaporator process.

1983 Shepparton Trotting Club Grandstand, Shepparton Vic. Tiered viewing area and bookies ring.

1984 Electrolux Factory & Offices, Shepparton Vic. Relocation of the Electrolux Group to a new factory, warehouse and office complex

1984 DECA (Driver Education Centre of Australia), Shepparton Vic, Second storey addition to the existing brick building to house theatre and audio facilities 1984 Ardmona Cannery Warehouse, Mooroopna Vic. Construction of cannery warehouse

ALAN SCOTT, SHEPPARTON MANAGER (1985 - 1988)

Born in Kyabram in 1930, Alan dedicated 40 years to HY, rising from carpenter to manager. His unwavering commitment and deep local ties left a lasting impact on the Shepparton region.

KEY PROJECTS

1985 Laboratory Complex, Shepparton Vic. Several laboratories and offices combined to form the State’s principal Irrigation Research Centre

INDUSTRIAL PROJECTS

1976, 1978, 1979 & 1981 Shepparton Preserving Co. Shepparton Vic. Various: demolition works, warehousing, alterations, social hall extension.

1980, 1984 Ardmona Food Products, Mooroopna Vic. Sub-station and switchboard, warehouse.

1975 Nestle, Girgarre Vic. Whey separator room

1977 Nestle Tongala Vic. New packaging and labelling area

1978 Tatura Milk, Vic. Alterations and addition to Dairy factory.

1975 & 1980 Carnation Milk, Merrigum Vic. Various: Warehouse,

1981 IBIS Stanhope Vic. Extension to milk treatment rooms and laboratory

1975, 1980 & 1982 Carnation Merrigum Vic. Warehouse extension and repairs.

1979 Geoffrey Thompson Cool Stores Shepparton Vic. Amenities Building.

1986 Yakka Factory, Shepparton Vic. A single level streelframed, brick clad factory of some 3,000m2 incorporating office facilities, associated amenities and a large carpark.

1986 Shepparton Retail Shops & Showrooms, Shepparton Vic. Three portal framed brick clad shops and showrooms with associated service centres, built on reclaimed land.

EDUCATION PROJECTS

1975, 1977 & 1979 St Mels Shepparton Vic. Administration Building and alterations. 1975, 1977 & 1978 Sacred Heart College Shepparton. Double storey building, alterations to school buildings.

1980 Rosella Foods Tatura Vic. Factory extension.

1978 & 1980 St Marys, Nathalia and Mooroopna Vic. Alterations and extensions to classrooms, new library

1981 Goulburn Valley Grammar, Shepparton Vic. New school building

LES CORRIN, SHEPPARTON MANAGER (1988 - 1990)

KEY PROJECTS

1988 SPC Cannery Warehouse, Shepparton Vic A new portal frame, colour bond clad warehouse of 10,300m2 with a storage capacity of 23,000 pallets.

1990 Bendigo Hospital, Bendigo Vic. The project involved the construction of a new link and kitchen building with works also including demolition and alterations to existing buildings.

During Bill Robinson’s tenure, Hansen Yuncken began to shift away from its traditional industrial base as the dairy and fruit industries faced challenges from price wars and drought. The company adapted by diversifying its portfolio, continuing to deliver significant projects across the Goulburn Valley while also extending its reach to Bendigo, Wodonga, and Beechworth.

KEY PROJECTS

1992 Baringa Day Care Centre, Shepparton VIC

1992 Echuca Technical College, Echuca VIC

1992 Glanville Village Nursing Home, Echuca VIC

1995 Ave Maria Aged Care, Shepparton VIC. Single storey 30 bed nursing home

BILL ROBINSON, SHEPPARTON MANAGER (1990 – 2006)

1996 Meiji MGC Baby Milk Formula Factory, Cobram VIC

1998 Goulburn Valley Base Hospital, Shepparton VIC

2000 Goulburn Valley Base Hospital – Psychiatric Lounge Upgrade, Shepparton VIC

2006 Goulburn Valley Health – Acute & Ambulatory Care Redevelopment, Shepparton VIC

1998 Office Relocated from Lockwood Road to 5 Zurcas Road, Shepparton

1999 Shepparton Police Station, Shepparton VIC

2002 Wodonga Police Station & Courts Complex, Wodonga VIC

2004 Beechworth Correctional Centre, Beechworth VIC. New 120-bed prison

2006 Bendigo Police Station, Bendigo Vic

OTHER PROJECTS

1992 Bendigo Senior Secondary College, Bendigo Vic

1995 Institute of Sustainable Irrigated Agriculture (ISIA), Tatura Vic

2004 Wanganui Park Secondary CollegeScience and Tech Building, Shepparton Vic

2000 Tatura Pavilion, Shepparton Vic 2000, Notre Dame Sports Stadium, Shepparton Vic

2002 Murchison Community Centre, Murchison Vic

2003 University of Melbourne Student Accommodation Units, Shepparton Vic

2003 Seymour Police Station, Seymour Vic

2003 Seymour Central Shopping Centre, Seymour Vic

2003 Numurkah Secondary College, Numurkah Vic

2003 Mooroopna Primary School, Mooroopna Vic

2005 Echuca Aged Care – Wharparilla Lodge Stage 1, Echuca Vic

2005 Cargill Meat Processing Facility, Waga Wagga NSW

1998 CFA Offices Alexandra VIC

in construction.

JASON COX, SHEPPARTON MANAGER (2007 - PRESENT)

Under Jason Cox’s leadership, Hansen Yuncken expanded into Albury and strengthened its focus on major regional centres, particularly Shepparton, Bendigo, and Albury/Wodonga, with projects at times reaching as far as Wagga Wagga and Ballarat. This period has been defined by sustained growth, largerscale projects, and a strong presence across key regional hubs.

KEY PROJECTS

2007 Opened Albury office – Level 1, 639D Dean Street, Albury NSW

2008 Quest Apartments, Albury NSW.

7 storey building in central Albury

2009 Wangaratta Performing Arts Centre, Wangaratta Performing Arts Centre, Wangaratta Vic. This award-winning project, which earned Hansen Yuncken the title of Victorian Commercial Builder of the Year, comprised the construction of a 500-seat performing arts facility complete with stage and theatre equipment, as well associated amenities 2009 Nathalia District Hospital Redevelopment, Nathalia Vic 2009, 2012, 2013 & 2015 Dhurringile Prison, Tatura Vic - Redevelopment (over six years)

2010 Latrobe University Shepparton, Shepparton Vic. 5 star certified Green Star building 2012 Echuca Regional Health, Echuca VIC. Early and main works for the hospital redevelopment including new wards, radiology, rehabilitation,

palliative care, emergency department, offices and ambulance bays.

2014 Riverina Juvenile Justice Centre, Wagga Wagga NSW

2016 Albury Wodonga Regional Cancer Centre, Albury NSW. Construction of a 3-level cancer centre with wards, treatment facilities, wellness centre, pharmacy, infrastructure upgrades, roadworks, parking and landscaping.

2016 Rules Club, Wagga Wagga NSW. First major project delivered for Hansen Yuncken using modular construction techniques

2018 Shepparton Villages 120 Bed Aged Care Development, Shepparton Vic.

2018 Bendigo Kangan Institute Health & Community Centre of Excellence, Bendigo Vic. An award-winning purpose-built TAFE facility for the training of nursing and community services students

2020 Viasat New Defence Satellite Ground Sation East, Wagga Wagga NSW. Highly technical construction techniques for Defence satellite capability

2021 Greater Shepparton Secondary College, Shepparton Vic. Spread

over a 76,862m2 site, it is the largest school delivered in Victoria catering for up to 3,000 students 2023 Puckapunyal Live In Accommodation, Puckapunyal Vic

2024 All Saints Anglican School, Shepparton Vic. Completed in 10 months, the award-winning project is Shepparton’s first Anglican school featuring vibrant and cutting-edge facilities to support STEAM subjects

2025 Lutheran Aged Care Redevelopment, Albury NSW

2020 Lavington Sports Ground Redevelopment, Albury NSW

2007 Bunnings Store & Timber Yard, Wodonga Vic

2016 Bunnings Warehouse, Yarrawonga, Vic

2009 Aldi Store, Albury NSW

2008 Aldi Store, Benalla Vic

2025 St Andrews Community Housing Project, Bendigo Vic. (current construction) 2025 Goulburn Valley Health Doctors Accommodation, Shepparton Vic. (current construction) 2025 Albury Wodonga Regional Hospital Early Works, Albury NSW. (current construction)

OTHER PROJECTS:

2024 Baranduda Fields Soccer Pavilion and Grandstand, Wodonga Vic

2024 Spotlight Retail Development, Shepparton Vic 2023 La Trobe University Bendigo Space Optimisation 5 Project, Bendigo Vic 2020 RAAF Wagga Mechanical & Building Works, Wagga Wagga NSW

2012 Department of Sustainability and Environment (DSE) Office & Depot, Alexandra Vic

2014 Bendigo Courthouse Redevelopment, Bendigo Vic

2017 Euroa Health and Aged Care, Euroa Vic

2020 Lavington Sports Stadium, Lavington NSW

2014 Riverina Juvenile Justice Centre, Wagga Wagga NSW

2020 Yu Long Horse Stud Farm, Nagambie Vic

2007 Northwood Park (Darley) Horse Stud Farm, Nagambie Vic 2012 Bendigo Ambulance Stations, Bendigo Vic

2018 Deniliquin Police Station, Deniliquin NSW

BUILDING STRONG COMMUNITIES

BEYOND transformative infrastructure projects, Hansen Yuncken is a proud supporter of community initiatives that deliver real impact. Some of the projects and organisations that Hansen Yuncken has supported across the Goulburn Valley include:

• Billabong Nursery engaged by HY for both the Greater Shepparton Secondary College project in 2021 and Puckapunyal Live In Accommodation project in 2022. Social enterprise ConnectGV, which supports employment opportunities for people living with disabilities, was brought on board to help plant trees for both projects. This created opportunities to employ residents living with a disability, supporting ConnectGV to provide meaningful long-term employment for workers within their nursery complex.

• Shepparton Foodshare In 2020, HY donated $10,000 to Shepparton Foodshare to bring food to the tables of local families living in isolation during the pandemic.

• Greater Shepparton Lighthouse Project A 1,270litre freezer, worth more than $8,000, was also provided to the Greater Shepparton Lighthouse Project to support their work with youth facing food insecurity.

• Andrew Hammer Pavilion

had the great privilege of playing a key role in a joint community commitment to save a special memorial destined for demolition when the former Shepparton High School was demolished to make way for the new Greater Shepparton Secondary College. HY, as part of a joint effort with the Hammer family and the

Department of Education gave time and expertise to oversee the Pavilion’s relocation and rebuild, where it now sits in its permanent home at Kialla Recreational Reserve. HY’s local contractors and suppliers also threw their support behind the cause by generously donating their time, labour and materials.

Four

the

but

HAMMER MEMORIAL…
years in
making,
the Andrew Hammer Memorial Pavilion found its new home at the Kialla Recreation Reserve, with the help of some fantastic people and businesses including Hansen Yuncken. From left: Chris Limosani, Graeme Spence, and Jason Williamson of Hansen Yuncken. Richard Bryce and Paul O’Dwyer from the Department of Education. Ross Hammer, Dillon Hammer, Melissa Rendina, Bella Squire, Jenni Gibson from the Department of Education. Katelyn Squire, Ruby Squire, GSSC teacher Gary O’Brien and Helen Limosani of Hansen Yuncken. Photo: The Adviser
Hansen Yuncken
THE GIFT OF GIVING... In 2021, Hansen Yuncken donated a commercial freezer to the Greater Shepparton Lighthouse Project, stocked with food for young people supported by the organisation at Christmas. Pictured (from left): The Haven youth workers Claire Pilliponi and Jim Bryan, with Hansen Yuncken project manager Jason Williamson.
Photo: The Adviser

STILL PROUDLY LOCAL:

OVER the past century, the Hansen Yuncken Shepparton team has expanded its footprint across northern Victoria and southern New South Wales, delivering schools, hospitals, aged care centres, police stations, court complexes, defence works and civic buildings in towns such as Bendigo, Wagga Wagga, Wodonga, Wangaratta, Beechworth, Echuca, Seymour and Alexandra.

Despite the challenges of a changing industry and increased competition, HY’s strength has always been in its people. Their adaptability, hands-on approach, and unwavering pride in the work they do are what have kept the regional business thriving,

and it’s those same values that will carry the firm forward for the next 100 years.

From a single fruit cannery to a legacy of regional leadership in healthcare and beyond, Hansen Yuncken’s journey in regional Victoria is a story of

FROM A SINGLE FRUIT CANNERY TO A LEGACY OF REGIONAL LEADERSHIP IN HEALTHCARE AND BEYOND, HANSEN YUNCKEN’S JOURNEY IN REGIONAL VICTORIA IS A STORY OF RESILIENCE, RELATIONSHIPS AND RESPECT FOR COMMUNITY

resilience, relationships and respect for community. The rest, as they say, is history – and Hansen Yuncken is just getting started.

LOOKING FORWARD... Pictured is Hansen Yuncken’s Shepparton team, at the site of the new Doctors Accommodation project being constructed at GV Health. Pictured L-R, Chris Limosani, Gabby Robinett, Drew Fensome, Luke Van Den Heuvel, Patrick Payn, Jason Williamson, Helen Limosani, and Casey Vlaming. Photo: Supplied

Opening windows with the right data parts

FROM Tuesday, October 14, Microsoft will end support for Windows 10, which means there will be no more updates or security patches for computers using Windows 10. For those with older computers, you may need an upgrade to go with the new software.

Data Parts on Edward Street, Shepparton, has a friendly team and expert knowledge to help anyone transition their existing computer to the new technology and upgrade their system.

“I've had people coming in saying, ‘I want to update my old computer to Windows 11’. And it is not always possible. We can assess the device for our customers.

I’ve had people coming in saying, ‘I want to update my old computer to Windows 11’. And it is not always possible. We can assess the device for our customers.

Parts owner

They can bring it into us, or we can do it remotely as well, and then give them some options of what to do from there,” said Data Parts owner Sebastian Mangiameli.

Sebastian knows not everyone will need or want to upgrade their computer to accommodate Windows 11, but for those who need the upgrade, Data Parts is there to help.

Your PC must meet specific criteria for Windows 11. Including a modern Intel processor (8th gen or newer), 64GB of storage, secure boot capabilities, and a Trusted Platform Module.

You can find Data Parts at 3 Edward Street, Shepparton, or call (03) 5821 7155.

The Goulburn Broken Catchment Management Authority and the Yorta Yorta Nation Aboriginal Corporation have reaffirmed their long-standing partnership with the signing of an updated Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), marking over two decades of collaboration in caring for Country. Building on the original 2014 agreement, the renewed MOU reflects a deepened collective understanding of what it takes to sustain a healthy and respectful partnership.

Central to the agreement is a commitment to supporting self-determination, ensuring that Yorta Yorta’s aspirations for land, water, people and culture are realised.

The MOU outlines four joint principles that will guide the partnership:

• Mutual respect and empowerment

• Strategic approach

• Effective collaboration

• Continuous improvement of the partnership

Goulburn Broken CMA CEO Carl Walters said the GB CMA would continue to proudly support YYNAC.

“It is important for the GB CMA to continue to publicly support YYNAC as it moves closer to realising its aspirations. We commit to helping where we can and if we need to get out of the way, we will.”

An operational Consultation Group, aligned with the MOU, will continue to meet several times a year to ensure ongoing dialogue and shared decision-making.

Visit www.gbcma.vic.gov.au to find out more.

SOFTWARE UPGRADE... When Microsoft ends support for Windows 10 this October, many older computer systems will not be able to upgrade to Windows 11. To get the best knowledge and service about the upgrade from the team in the know, Data Parts Shepparton is the place to go. From left, George Kapsalis, Raina Holm, Patrick Barr, Ryan McAlpine, Connie Mangiameli, Owner Sebastian Mangiameli, Paula Ludeman and Scott Boyle seated. Photo: Aaron Cordy
Data
Sebastian Mangiameli

2025

REMEMBERING THE FALLEN

Friday, September 5 and Monday, September 8, 2025, Victoria Police members gathered in solemn reflection at Shepparton Police Station to honour and remember their fallen colleagues, Senior Constable Vadim de Waart-Hottart and Detective Leading Senior Constable Neal Thompson, who tragically lost their lives while on duty.

With deep respect, police members paused for a minute’s silence to acknowledge their service, sacrifice, and the enduring impact they had on those who worked alongside them.

Members of the police force said thoughts remain with their family, friends, and all who are grieving this great loss. They will never be forgotten.

Trade Expo success

SOLAR City Locksmith welcomed the community to its brand-new Fryers Street location on Wednesday, September 3, for its first-ever Trade Expo.

Guests explored the latest in lock and security technology, met leading suppliers including LSC, Assa Abloy, Lock & Key and API, and enjoyed interactive challenges such as the “Guess the code” safe competition.

Director/Locksmith, Keegan Moylan said the event was a great way to showcase the new showroom while connecting with

both trade and community customers.

For more information about Solar City Locksmiths Trade Expo, call 5831 4411 or

visit www.solarcitylocksmiths.com.au or call at their brand new premises 128 Fryers St Shepparton

TRADES... A great turnout for Solar City Locksmith’s first Trade Expo, showcasing the latest in lock and security technology at their new Fryers Street location. Photos: Emma Harrop
LOCK AND KEY... Pictured is six-year-old Evanie Hoge.
LOCKED IN... From left are Solar City Locksmiths Directors Rob Bruns, Keegan Moylan, Mary Strangio and Shaban Kaso.

Photographs like Picasso

EXPRESSION through art is one of the best ways of fostering young minds to grow, no matter what medium they choose.

At Shepparton’s ACE College, the year eight and nine students under the guidance of teacher Kerry Short, are discovering a passion and talent for photography with stunning results.

“I base the course around giving the kids an opportunity to recognise what is an appropriate way to take photographs,” said Kerry.

“Giving them knowledge of art elements so that when they're looking to take a photograph, they can see, if I look for

colour as a feature, or lines or patterns or texture or tone that gives them something to aim for. They can interpret something in front of them that could work to make a better photograph. If they try and make one of those art elements a feature, they can make their photographs stronger.”

The ACE students have entered their photos Young Picasso Art Competition run by Shepparton South Rotary Club, held at Sacred Heart Hall, Shepparton, on Saturday and Sunday, September 20 and 21. The exhibition will be judged by local artists, Tank and Greg Beckham, as well as a People's Choice Award.

Excitement builds for the Shepparton Show

THE 149th Shepparton Agricultural Show returns Friday 10 and Saturday 11 October, with two full days of family fun. Gates open 10am–10pm.

Highlights include the animal nursery from RedLilly Farm and Aussie Farm Animals, free camel rides, Sideshow Alley rides and games, community displays, plenty of food trucks and stalls, and the highly anticipated fireworks display scheduled for 9pm Saturday (weather permitting).

Competitions run across both days, including livestock judging, the new Dog High Jump (Friday), and the Woodchop Demonstration

(Saturday). Entries for art, craft, cookery and photography close Friday, September 19.

The Adviser is giving away five family passes—enter via our Facebook page. Early bird two-day family passes ($60 + booking fee) are available online at Ticketebo until 5pm Thursday, October 9.

Gate prices: Two-day Family $70 (offer ends 10pm 10/10/2025); One-day Family $55; Adult $25; Concession/Secondary $20; Primary $6; Under 5 free.

For details and updates, follow the Shepparton Show on Facebook.

Contact: Tickets available through Riverlinks Box Office - Phone: 03 5832 9511 Group bookings and seating requests: admin@gsbn.net.au

Event Overview: A highlight of the regional business calendar, the Greater Shepparton SPC Business Excellence Awards Gala Dinner celebrates the exceptional accomplishments of businesses and individuals shaping the region’s economic landscape.

AGRICULTURAL SHOW... The 149th annual Shepparton Show promises a full program with something for everyone! Gates open 10am-10pm on Friday, October 10 and Saturday, October 11, with the fireworks scheduled for 9pm Saturday (weather permitting). Photo: Supplied
YOUNG PICASSO... ACE students have entered their photos Young Picasso Art Competition run by Shepparton South Rotary Club, held at Sacred Heart Hall, Shepparton, on Saturday and Sunday, September 20 and 21. Photo: Lauren Jefferis

No matter how you look at it, Kyabram is the favourite for this weekend’s Goulburn Valley League senior football grand final. You’ve probably heard the term “on paper” — well, in this case at least, that’s pretty much my only source of information. As a team, the Bombers lost the three points that separate them from a perfect line-up in the Defence and On the Ground categories. They scored 5/5 for Offence, being the only team to score more than 2000 points this season (averaging over 100 points per game), and were also perfect in Contested and In the Air categories. They lead all marking categories and are the number one team in the GVL for contested possessions. I marked them 3/5 for Defence, as they are only the equal third-ranked team in this category for 2025 (behind Rochester and Echuca, and equal with the Bears). They also received 4/5 for On the Ground, where they trail some of those same teams in Loose Ball Gets and Hard Ball Gets. On an individual basis, two players in the Kyabram team (by my rating system) finished with Perfect 10s for the season — Mick Mattingly and Aidan Robinson. Mattingly is the standout midfielder, and Robinson is the ultimate captain: a key defender, a capable ruckman, and a forward who can win the game off his own boot.

The reason Kyabram is such a raging premiership favourite is that eight players (again, only according to me) have had 9/10 seasons — running defender Brad Whitford (despite playing just 12 games); forwards Barnett, Ironside, and Holman; ruckman Norris after a year on the sidelines; teenager Archie Watt; and gun recruit (and reigning Murray League medallist) Jack Russell. Rochester lost just twice during the home-and-away

While netball is a team sport, it often comes down to individual performances in key areas of the court — and in this case, the competition’s two most prolific goalscorers: Euroa’s Olivia Morris and Shepparton’s Kim Borger. These two are match-winners, but they can only deliver if the supply is sufficient — after all, they can’t go past the first horizontal white line on the court at any stage.

Individual Match-Ups

• Olivia Morris (Euroa GS) vs Keeley O’Dwyer (Bears GK)

BEARS W (controversially, given Morris is the league’s leading goaler). In their last meeting, O’Dwyer held Morris to just six goals in the first term — almost unheard of — and kept her under double figures again in the third. Morris finished with 39 goals, one of only three sub-40 games for her season. She now has 1,026 goals for the year and finished third in the league medal count.

season — to Kyabram by 62 points (by far their biggest loss of the year) in Round 11, and by nine points to the Shepparton Swans in Round 5. Due to their defensive focus, there haven’t been many blowouts. In fact, against lower-ranked teams, they’ve often appeared to do “just enough” to get over the line. They beat Seymour by 79 points in Round 1, but in Rounds 2 and 3 were only seven-point and 15-point winners against non-finalists Mooroopna and Euroa. Another big score came in Round 4 — an 86-point win against Mansfield — but that was followed by a series of close games. Their biggest win was against Tatura (by 138 points), but they only managed to beat Shepparton United by nine points, Seymour by nine, Euroa by three, and Shepparton by 10.

Throw in a draw with Mansfield in Round 15, and it’s lucky Ash Watson is such a cool character — these results would test the patience of most team mentors.

Former Port Melbourne player Drew Lloyd has given Rochester’s midfield a boost since arriving in Round 10, but the team has remained largely unchanged over the past two years, apart from his injection into the line-up.

Stats That Matter

Kyabram has five players in the top 20 goalkickers for the season; Rochester has just two.

Rochester leads the hard ball gets count, with Kyabram sitting fourth — but the Bombers average 11 more uncontested possessions per game than the Tigers. Kyabram ranks first for kicks, while Rochester is seventh. Rochester is first for handballs, with Kyabram second.

Kyabram takes four more marks per game inside 50 than the Tigers.

Prediction: Kyabram by 31 points.

BEARS W. O’Dwyer is a rising star in Victorian netball and will be focused on linking the mid-court to Borger and Harmer. Hoare will need to be in shutdown mode. If O’Dwyer can run off her and create attacking opportunities, she’ll impact the game — but overall, I give the edge to Hoare.

• Sophie Harmer (Bears GA) vs Kellie Davidson (Euroa GD)

EUROA W. Harmer is underrated outside her team but highly respected within it. She has a massive work ethic but faces Davidson — a calm, capable defender who excels in both close-checking and fast-paced play. Davidson is a strong communicator and leader. If she can contain Harmer, it will reduce Borger’s supply. Harmer was the Bears’ secondhighest vote-getter in the league medal count.

• Mia Sudomirski (Euroa GA) vs Molly Kennedy (Bears GD)

DRAW. Yes, I’m sitting on the fence — and for good reason. This battle could decide the game. Both players featured in every top-30 list I compiled for GVL A Grade this season. Kennedy is an intercepting beast — close-checking and athletic. Sudomirski has an almost telepathic connection with Morris that sends defenders into a spin.

• Eliza Bicknell (Bears WD) vs Sophie Owen (Euroa WA)

EUROA W. Both are reliable link players, offering outlet passes from defence and helping position the ball in the goaling circle. While both are sure-handed, Owen gets the edge for her ability to read the play and contribute defensively despite being a wing attack.

• Hollie Reid (Euroa C) vs Caitlin Tuohey (Bears C)

EUROA W. Reid is a big-game performer — best on court in last year’s grand final and a standout in representative netball. She faced four different opponents last time these teams met (Tuohey, Mackenzie O’Dwyer, Scott, and Kennedy). Reid finished runner-up to Borger in the league best and fairest count. She’s fast, relentless, and highly engaged on both ends of the court.

• Mackenzie O’Dwyer (Euroa WA) vs Eliza Hoare (Bears WD)

• Kim Borger (Bears GS) vs Ellie Warnock (Euroa GK) BEARS W. Borger is the league’s best player — proven by her 37 votes to win the best and fairest by nine. She rarely misses, is hard to move, and is the second-highest goal scorer this season. She thrives in big games and will be determined to lead her team to an unbeaten season (despite a draw with Seymour). Warnock has the height and athleticism to match her, but when Harmer’s long-range passing is on, it’s tough for any defender to out-position Borger.

Interchange

BEARS W. Bears: Erin Scott, Hannah Crawley, Ruby Higgins, Zoe Monteleone, Makayla Finn. Strong support across all areas. Crawley is a solid defender, Scott works the mid-court, and Higgins adds attacking depth. They can confidently rotate these players at any stage. Magpies: Sarah Ternes, Sam Kreltszheim, Kelly Hill, Bree Sudomirski. This group hasn’t been used as much. Kreltszheim stepped up when Mia Sudomirski was unavailable midseason, as did Ternes and Bree Sudomirski.

Overall Result: Bears win 4–3

Which I think equates to a margin of 3–6 goals. Just as close as expected — and we wouldn’t want it any other way. I expect a tight contest, finishing well under the 120-goal mark, despite both teams regularly topping 60 goals. Prediction: Shepparton Bears by four goals.

GOULBURN VALLEY’S HOME OF SPORT

Download the SEN App to listen live

WHAT WE LEARNED: EXPERIENCE COUNTS FOR EVERYTHING IN FINALS

NICHOLAS QUINLAN/SEN

EXPERIENCE counts for everything in finals

With a maiden Q-Clash final on their horizon throughout the week, there was plenty of pressure on Brisbane to respond after a disappointing showing against the Cats.

And while the Suns may have gotten off to a hot start, kicking the first two goals, the Lions, who are in their seventh final series in a row, looked calm and knew exactly what to do to remedy it.

Harris Andrews quickly made the move onto Ben King after Darcy Gardiner was well and truly beaten and shut him out of the game, whilst still leading the Lions for intercept possessions.

The likes of Hugh McCluggage, Will and Levi Ashcroft managed to turn Jarrod Witts’ hit-out wins into successful clearances for themselves whilst shutting down the influence of the Suns in stoppages.

Josh Dunkley followed Matt Rowell all day and curtailed his effect on the game whilst managing 18 tackles himself.

And Jarrod Berry and Dayne Zorko transitioned the ball with ease from their defensive 50 to the forward 50, which created plenty of scoring opportunities.

It was one of the most complete performances the Lions have had in the finals arena.

And it can only happen by having the experience in these matches, which the Suns lacked.

Now, a rematch of the 2023 Grand Final waits for Brisbane next Saturday, with a spot to make their third Grand Final in a row up for

grabs. Redemption is a beautiful thing

For the second year in a row, the Hawks found themselves in the City of Churches on the second Friday of September in a semi-final clash.

And once again, history was against them.

In last year’s semi, no side that had lost by 50 points or more in a

qualifying final had been defeated the following week, which Port Adelaide maintained with a thrilling threepoint win and sent Hawthorn packing.

And in this semi-final clash against the minor premiers in the Crows, there was even more history stacked against them.

No 8th-placed side had progressed to the preliminary finals outside of

North Melbourne in 2015, and no 8thplaced side had ever beaten 1st when they played one another in finals, which seemed to make an Adelaide win almost pre-ordained.

And to add injury to insult, Hawthorn had only won one of their last seven games at Adelaide Oval.

But that didn’t matter one iota.

The Hawks took the lead within 13

seconds and failed to give it up.

And while the Crows responded early on to stay in the match, the Hawks put their foot to the floor, which saw them put Adelaide out in straight sets.

With a preliminary final clash against the Cats next week, don’t be surprised if Hawthorn continues to make their own history.

Harris Andrews (front right) of the Lions celebrates winning the AFL Semi-Final match between the Brisbane Lions and the Gold Coast Suns at the Gabba. Photo: DARREN ENGLAND/AAP IMAGE

Rohan Aldous reveals

Top 50 GVL players (Part 1)

IF it’s good enough for Mike Sheahan, Mark Robinson and Jay Clark, then it is good enough for Rohan Aldous. Here is his Top 50 GVL senior players for 2025. Alongside their name is their Top 100 ranking points position:

6 KAINE HERBERT (PICTURED) (KYABRAM) TOP 100: 3

Didn’t miss a game and has now played all but one game in the last three seasons. Averaged more than 6 I50s, along with almost 3 R50s and had seven 150+ ranking point games -– season highs of 43 touches (twice), 14 I50sm, 11 tackles, 16 marks and 11 clearances.

7 AIDAN ROBINSON (KYABRAM) TOP 100: 26

Kicked 13 goals in 2022, but in the last two years had kicked just two goals. Used as a back-up ruckman and pinch hitting forward, kicking an amazing 28 goals despite sharing his time between the ruck and defence. Had arguably his best game as a defender, 12 one-percenters against Echuca, 24 disposals, five intercept marks and six tackles.

8 NATHAN HROVAT (SHEPPARTON SWANS) TOP 100: 8

His best year with the Swans since joining the club. Played 25 games in 2023/24 but appeared in 17 this year – averaging 131 ranking points, 30 disposals, nine clearances and with a season high 257-point game to his credit.

9 SAM REID (ECHUCA) TOP 100: 22

His average of 18 contested disposals a game, nine clearances, five tackles and 13 goals for the season underlines his two-way style. Had 30 contested disposals in a game against Mooroopna where he racked up 43 touches, 11 clearances, kicked two goals and had a season high 193 ranking points.

10 MARK MARRIOTT (BENALLA) TOP 100: 2

A massive season from a massive man, highlighted by 103 hit outs (24 to advantage) in R10 against Mooroopna. In that same game had a season high 253 ranking points. Had a season high nine tackles against Kyabram, along with season PBs of 16 clearances and 30 disposals.

TOP 11 TO 50:

11 Matthew King (Mans) Top 100: 7

12 Nathan Beattie (Sey) Top 100: 11

13 Chris Welsh (Ben) Top 100: 24

14 Nick Gray (Mans) Top 100: 14 15 Mark Kovacevic (Swans) Top 100: 15 16 Nathan Wright (Ben) Top 100: 61 17 Hugh Byrne (Ech) Top 100: 39 18 Kai Madgwick (Moor)

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