Turn up the taste Turnup thetaste
CrowdsflockedtoEats& Beats2025,enjoying brilliantlivemusic, deliciousfood,anda greatcommunityvibe. PerformersDarcy Ramage,EmmaBlack, andJeffersonSmithkept thecrowdentertainedas familiesandfriends relaxedinthesunshine. �� Checkoutpages2&3 forafullphotospread.
Acheerfulnewmuralnowbrightensthefrontwallof theTongalaSeniorCitizensCentreat14CavellSt, addinganothersplashofcolourtotheTongalaArt Trail CreatedbyMurrayRosswithsupportfromthe TongalaLionsClubandlocalvolunteers,themural featuresthedelightfulcharactersBuzzyBeeandSally Sunflower,bringingsmilestoallwhopassby. MorePages6&7
Eats.Beats.Repeat.
Tongalacamealiveon Sunday,October12,with greatmusic,deliciousfood, andplentyofcommunity spiritaslocalsandvisitors gatheredforEats&Beats. Crowdssoakedupthe sunshineandsoundsof talentedlocalperformers DarcyRamage,Emma Black,andJeffersonSmith, whoeachbroughttheirown energyandstyletothe stage
Theatmospherewas buzzing,withfamiliesand friendsrelaxingtogether andsamplingthefantastic rangeoffoodand beveragesonoffer. Ahugethankyouto everyonewhohelpedmake Eats&Beats2025sucha success fromour organisersandvolunteers totheincredibleperformers andstallholderswho broughttheeventtolife
Everything baked on premises
Delicious variety
Powerfultributeopened
Apowerfulnewmural celebratingPastorSirDoug NichollsKCVOOBEMBEnow standsproudlyintheheart ofTongala,officially openedonSunday, October12,beforethe annualEatsandBeats event
Themovingceremony broughttogether communitymembers, dignitaries,andfamilyof SirDougtohonourthe YortaYortaleader’s extraordinarylegacyof faith,activism,and reconciliation Theeventopenedwitha WelcometoCountryand smokingceremonyledby UncleRick Visionrealised Themuralistheresultof yearsofdedicationbythe TongalaDevelopment Group,spearheadedby TylerStaggandthelateJB Bentley,whosecontribution isrecognisedonthe mural’splaquealongside SirDoug
“Thisprojectwasareal communityeffort,”Tyler, wholedtheprojectto completion,said
“SirDougNichollslivedalife thattranscended boundaries betweenfaith andactivism,sportand service,justiceand reconciliation.Thoughshort instature,hewasagiant amongus,standingtallin hiscommitmenttojustice, equalityandcompassion” Tylerthankedthe CampaspeShireCouncil, CommunityBankTongala, TongalaFootballNetball Club,andlocal tradespeoplefortheir support,alongwithmural artistMattAdnate,whose workcapturesSirDoug’s likenesswithstriking realism.
Familyreflections
OnThursday,October9,the communitywelcomed AuntyPamelaPedersen,Sir Doug’sdaughter,forherfirst visittoTongalatoseethe completedmural. Overcomewithemotion, shesaid,“ItcapturesDad’s likenesssowell Ijust lookedatitandreally wantedtohughim.” Sheexpressedheartfelt gratitudetotheTongala community:“Thankyoufor
honouringDadinthisway It’sabsolutelywonderful, andIcanfeeltheloveyou haveforhim Healways helpedanyoneinneedand instilledinusthe importanceofwherewe comefrom,toworkhard andstaystrong” SirDoug’snephew,Uncle BobbyNicholls,alsospoke atbothceremonies, reflectingonthefamily’s prideandSirDoug’s enduringinfluence:“He madefriendseverywhere blackandwhite andhe workedforunity Toseehis facehereinTongala,where heplayedfootyand preached,makesusvery proud” CampaspeShireCouncillor
JessMitchellcommended theTongalaDevelopment Groupfortheirvisionand collaboration “Thismuralismorethan artwork it’sapowerful statementaboutunity, respectandreconciliation SirDougNicholls’message ofharmonystillringstrue today”
Aplaqueatthesitefeatures oneofSirDoug’smost enduringquotes: “Whenyouhaveapiano whichhasblacknotesand whitenotes,playtheblack notesandyougetagood sound.Playthewhitenotes andyougetagoodsound. Butwhenyouplaytheblack andwhitetogether you getharmony”
UncleBobbyNichollsandAuntyPam Pedersen.
TongalaSeniorCitizens
Checkoutournewmuralat14CavellSt. AmassivethankyoutoMurrayRossfor transformingouronce-drabfrontwallinto somethingtrulymagical
HugethanksalsototheTongalaLionscrew whohelpedMurraywiththeinstallation we reallyappreciateyoursupportand involvementinthisproject.
AnotherbigthankyougoestoAlex,who preppedandpaintedourbrightyellowwall.
TongalaSeniorCitizens
Welldonetoeveryone involved! Bringyourlittleonesalong toseeourhappyplace andsayhellotoBuzzyBee andSallySunflower. We’realsoverygratefulto DifromTheTonnyTimes forcomingalongonher weekendtophotograph theprogressandfollowup withthisarticle we’reso fortunatetohavethis publicationinour community
Ourofficial openingwill beheldonSaturday, November8,at1pm,and onceagain,theTongala Lionshavekindly volunteeredtheir barbecueskillstohelpus celebrate Comealong, jointhefun,andhelpus markthiscolourful milestoneasweofficially becomepartofthe TongalaArtTrail!
–JoyChalmers,
When:1pm,Saturday,November8
Where:14CavellSt,Tongala
What:Officialopeningofthenew muralatTongalaSeniorCitizens ClubRooms-comealongfora sausagesizzle!
SpecialCulturalLearningDay
Lastterm,theStPatrick’sPrimarySchoolBoys totheBushprogramwaswrappedupwitha veryspecialCulturalLearningDay.Theboys spenttimeconnectingtoCountrywithUncle Norm,learninglocalhistory,andcrafting traditionaltimbershieldsusingauthentic toolsandtechniques.Theirrespect,focus, andenthusiasmwereoutstanding andwe couldn’tbeprouderofthewaythey representedStPatrick’s.
MoreStPat’snewsonPages32-37
BIGHITINTHESCHOOLYARD
AhugethankyoutotheTongalaPrimarySchoolParents andFriendsGroupforthenewestadditiontotheschool yard 9SquareintheAir!Thisfun,fast-pacedgamethat combinesvolleyballandfour-squarehasbeenamassive hitwithstudentsduringrecessandlunchtime,getting everyoneup,active,andplayingtogether.
MoreTPSnewsonPages26-31
MeetJoel
MynameisJoelAlwei I am34yearsoldandI’m fromPapuaNewGuinea Iwasbroughtupbymy parentsinruralareasin Mendi,SouthernHighland Province,PapuaNew Guinea
WhenIwasnineto10 yearsold,Iwasdoing gradefive,andmy parentstoldmeto helpthemcollect firewoodandfetchwater forpreparingdinnerand breakfast
Icompletedmyprimary levelofschoolandwas selectedtohighschool. WhenIwasathighschool, myhobbieswereto watch,readandlistento music
Duetofinancialproblems
Ididn’tcompleteYear12 becausemyparentswere poorandtheyhardly managedthecurrent financialsituation
Atthetime,Ithoughtthat Iwouldn’tgetany financialsupportfrommy parents.
Imovedtotown,the
capitalofPapuaNew Guinea,PortMoresby,to seekajobtosupportmy familybackhome
WhenIstartedthejob,I supportedmyselfand, fortunately,Isentmy moneybackhometomy parents,sotheycouldbuy theirneedsandtheir wants
OnenightIthoughtmy firstjobisn’tenoughto supportmeandmy family,andIsoughtfor anotherjob
ThenItraveledto Australiatoworkand supportmyfamilyback homewith thingslikeschoolfees, buildingahomeand otherfinancialsupport Whatsurprisedmeherei Australiaisthehugeland masswithdifferenttypes offarmland,beautiful lakes,waterfallsand amazingbuildingsin everystateandcity Thatiswhatmakesme enjoyandbeveryproud toworkandliveherein Australia.
Jorja’sbrilliantbronze
Stanhope’sJorjaPonton continuestoimpressinthe kitchen,thistimeearninga BronzeMedalaspartofa GOTAFEteamattheClub ChefTeamCookery Challengeheldat HolmesglenInstitutein Moorabbin
Thecompetitionsaw teamsoffourapprentice chefsplanandpreparea three-coursemealfroma mysteryboxofingredients includingcompulsory itemssuchasHumptyDoo barramundi,Cheffields lambrack,ricotta, parmesancheese,vanilla extractandmaplesyrup Withjustonehourtoplan
andthreehourstocook, Jorjaandteammates TessaWoodman,Hazael BariaandEloueraWalker workedtogethertocreate: �� Ceviche barramundiwithAsian salad(entrée)
�� Pistachio-crusted lambrack(main)
�� DeconstructedEton mess(dessert)
Eachteammatetook responsibilityforone course,withJorja showcasinghercreativity throughthedessert.
LedbyGOTAFETeacher CommercialCookeryJess Raeandsupportedby KaranBisht,thestudents
trainedafterhoursforeight weekstoprepareforthe challenge andtheir teamworkpaidoff,scoring between70–80percentto securetheirmedals Jorja,whoiscompleting herapprenticeshipatthe OTPTongalaHotel,saidthe teameventwasa
completelydifferent experiencetothesolo competitionsshe’ddone earlierintheyear. “Itwasnothinglikethe solocompIdidearlierin theyear,”shesaid “Havingothersthere, havingateammadeitso muchmorefun.”
LEFT:Jorja’s Deconstructed Etonmess.
BELOWLEFT: Hazael’s Ceviche barramundi. BELOW:Tess’s Pistachiocrustedlamb rack.
JorjaPonton(second fromleft)withherteam.
Callforcommunityhelp
Duringthepastmonth, we’vesharedupdateson twoofTongala’smuchlovedevents:theTownWideGarageSaleandthe ChristmasHayBaleTrail Bothhavebroughtcolour, connection,andvisitorsinto ourcommunityoverthe years.
Both,sadly,willnotbeheld in2025
Thereasonsaresimplebut significant:oursmall volunteergroupisstretched thin.
TheTongalaDevelopment Groupisproudofwhat we’veachievedtogether eventsthathavelifted spiritsduringtoughtimes, celebratedwhoweare,and putourtownonthemap.
Butthetruthis,wecannot keepdoingitallwithout morehandsandfresh energy Lookingahead,thisreality putsanothertraditionatrisk ourAustraliaDay celebrations.
Inpastyears,we’vehosted everythingfromalivemusic barbecueandcommunity awardstolastyear’spool party,whichwasahuge success. Theseeventsareabout
morethanjustadateon thecalendar they’re aboutbringingpeople together,recognisingthe effortsoflocals,andgiving ourtownachanceto celebratewhatmakes Tongalaspecial. Withoutnewvolunteers steppingforward,thefuture ofthesecelebrationsis uncertain
Thisiswhereweneedyour help
Ifyou’veeverenjoyedthese events,ifyou’veeverfelt proudofwhatourlittletown canachieve,orifyou’dlike toseeyourkidsand neighbourscontinueto havethesemomentsto lookforwardto please considergettinginvolved.
Bigorsmall,every contributionmakesa difference.
Tongalahasalwaysbeenat itsbestwhenwecome together
Let’smakesurethese traditionsdon’tfadeaway. Ifyou’reinterestedin lendingahandorlearning more,pleasereachoutto usthroughtheTongala DevelopmentGroup Facebookpageoremail tongaladevelopmentgroup @gmail.com
Together,wecankeepthe spiritofourtownaliveand thriving
–Tongala Development Group
TongalaGirlGuides
Afterawell-deserved schoolholidaybreak,our GuidesandLeadersare excitedtobebackand readyforavibrantnew term!
Wehaveanaction-packed scheduleahead,featuring hands-oncookingsessions, creativecraftprojects, essentialfirstaidtraining, andpracticalcampingskills plussomuchmore We’realsolookingforward tocelebratingthefunof Halloweenandthe excitementofMelbourne CupDaytogether.
There’ssomethingfor everyone,andwecan’twait tomakemorewonderful memoriesthisterm!
OurGirlGuidesgroupis
proudlyrunbyvolunteers, andwerelyonmembersh feesandfundraisingto keepourprogramsthriving Thisterm,we’recollecting eligible10crecyclables throughtheCDSTongala initiative
Ifyou’dliketosupportus, pleaseconsiderdonating yourbottlesandcans simplydropthemoffatthe frontoftheGuideHall,bring themalongtoourmeeting nights,orcontactusto arrangeacollectionor drop-off.
Everycontributionhelpsus providemoreopportunities andexperiencesforour Guides Thankyouforsupporting ourcommunity!
TheImpactofGirlGuides Victoria Throughourdiverse programsandactivities,we empowergirlstodevelop confidence,resilience,and leadershipskills andto trulydiscovertheirown uniquepotential. OurGuidesengagein communityservice, environmentalstewardship, andglobalcitizenship, makingapositiveimpactin
theirlocalandglobal mmunities fosteringasupportive dinclusiveenvironment, rguidingprogramshelp sbuildlifelong endships,embracenew allenges,anddiscover eirownpotentialtoshape theirworldandtheirfuture. Ourcommitmentto nurturingthenext generationoffemale leadersensuresthatevery girlhastheopportunityand thespacetothrive Ifyouwouldliketoseeif Guidingisrightforyour daughter,pleasejoinus onWednesdaynights from5.30pmto7pm— we’dlovetoseeyou there!
Maxann’snextchapter
Foryears,MaxannHeald wasoneofthemostfamiliar facesinTongala greeting localswithasmile,achat, andoftenahugatthePost Officecounter
Butbehindthatfriendly smilewasadreamslowly takingshape onethat wouldleadherfromsorting letterstoshapingyoung lives
Maxannandherfamily movedtoTongalafrom Moamain2016,seekingthe openspaceandsmalltownfeelthatremindedher ofthedairyfarming communitiesshegrewupin backhomeinNewZealand “WhenI’mhome,Ifeellike I’minthemiddleofnowhere butjustuptheroad, everythingIneedisright here,”shesaid.
HeryearsatthePostOffice werefulloflaughter, connection,andcommunity care
“It’sthecustomersandthe conversationsIremember most,”shesaid.
“I’vecelebratedbirthdays, births,andmarriages,and sharedtearswhenloved onespassed
Hercaregoesbeyondthe classroom.
She’shelpedstudents accesswellbeingsupport, navigaterelationships,and buildconfidence
“It’ssofulfillingtoseethem startbelievingin themselves,”shesaid.
TheTongalacommunity hascheeredheronevery stepoftheway
“EverytimeIseesomeone, theyaskhowthecourse andjobaregoing Well,I’ve completedmycourse andmycontract’sbeen renewedforanotheryear.”
Forinspiration,Maxann lookstoherdaughters,her students,andevenher youngerself
“Idoitformygirls,for12year-oldmewhojust neededsomeonetoaccept her,andforeverystudent whoshowsupandtries,” shesaid Andwhat’snext?
“Iwasheldthroughmy miscarriagesandcheered onwhenIdecidedtomake achange Iabsolutely adoreourtownsfolk” Thatchangecamewhen Maxannrealisedher nurturingnatureandlove forconnectioncouldtake hersomewherenew.
SheenrolledinaCertificate IVinSchool-Based EducationSupport abig leapforabusymumof threeteenagedaughters.“I wantedtobetheperson
everystudentneeds someonewhoseesthem, reallyseesthem,andoffers compassionand perspective,”shesaid Itwasn’teasyjuggling study,work,andfamilylife
“Iwasalreadyalways behindinthewashing,so nothingchangedthere!” shelaughed butshe foundstrengthinher daughters’support.
“They’vecookeddinners, putthebinsout,lockedup thechickens,and celebratedeverysmallwin withme
“WhenIpassedmyfirst
assessments,Chloeeven broughtmeflowersanda notesayinghowproudshe was Istillhaveit” Today,Maxannworksat RochesterSecondary College,whereshe’sfound hercallingsupporting studentsthroughtheups anddownsofadolescence “WhenIwalkthroughthe quad,there’salways someonewavingorcalling myname Thetrustthey showmefillsmyheart,”she said “Seeingthembecome confidentandresilient that’sthewholepoint.”
“I’mbetweenthingsright now,buttheremightbea BachelorofEducationinmy future,”shesaid “Iwanttokeepmakinga difference toinfluence howyoungpeopleseethe worldandthemselves.”
Whenshe’snotinthe classroom,you’llstillfind Maxannaroundtown chattingatthePostOfficeor IGA,orbakingupastormin herkitchen
Heradvicetoanyone thinkingofstarting somethingnew?
“Followthethreadsinlife thatsparksomethinginyou Ifitexcitesyou,goforit!Life isfullofpivotsanddetours theybecomethestoryof us.”
Date: Saturday 15 November th
TongalaFireBrigade
Isyourpropertyfire truckready?
Asweheadintofireseason, it’simportanttomakesure emergencyservicescan reachyourpropertyquickly andsafely
Firetrucksarelarge,heavy vehiclesthatneedclear, stableaccess
Checkyourdriveway it shouldbeatleast3.5 metreswide,withanextra halfametreofclearanceon eachsidefreefrombushes, posts,orstructures,andfour metresofoverhead clearanceforsafepassage. Ifyourdrivewayislonger than100metres,you’llneed aturningareanearthe house
Fordrivewaysover200 metres,passingbaysare required. Firetrucksmustalsobe abletoparkonacleared, stableareawithinfour metresofyourCFAwater tankoutlet
Blockedornarrowaccess candelayemergency services andinan emergency,everysecond counts
Formoreinformationon preparingyour propertyforfireseason, visit �� www.cfa.vic.gov.au/pla n-prepare/how-toprepare-yourproperty/propertyaccess-foremergency-services
StayInformedThisFireSeason
��
Beingpreparedandstayinginformedcanmakeallthe differenceduringfireseason TheVicEmergencyappis yourone-stopsourceforup-to-dateFireDangerRatings, TotalFireBaninformation,warnings,andthelocationsof currentfiresacrossVictoria
�� GettheApp
DownloadthefreeVicEmergencyapponyourAppleor AndroiddeviceandsetupyourWatchZones youcan createupto20zonestoreceivereal-timealertsfor incidentsandwarningsinyourchosenareas
�� Downloadandlearnmoreat wwwemergencyvicgovau
�� TongalaGetsFireReady! ��
TheTongalaCFAopeneditsdoorsonSaturday, October4,foraspecialGetFireReadyOpenDay, welcomingthecommunitytolearn,connectand preparefortheupcomingfireseason
Localsdroppedinthroughoutthedaytochatwith volunteerfirefighters,explorethestation,andpickup valuablefiresafetyandhomepreparednesstips Familiesenjoyedthehands-ondisplays,firetruck toursandinteractiveactivitiesthathelpedmake learningaboutsafetybothfunandengaging
TheCFAteamremindedresidentsoftheimportance ofhavingabushfireplan,keepingpropertiesclearof debris,andstayinginformedduringthehotter monthsahead
Freehealth checkscoming
Residents,workers,andvisitors inandaroundTongalaare encouragedtotakechargeof theirhealththismonth,witha freeHealthyTownsPop-Up CliniccomingtotheTongala CommunityCentreon Wednesday,November19, from9.30amto12pm.
TheclinicispartoftheHealthy Townsprogram a community-drivenruralhealth initiativedesignedtosupport under-servedcommunities whilegivinguniversitystudents valuablereal-world experience.Deliveredby supervisedstudentnurses fromLaTrobeUniversity’sRural HealthInnovationHub,the pop-upclinicwillofferfriendly, confidentialhealthchecksfor peopleofallages no bookingsrequired.
Visitorscanhavetheirblood pressure,heartrate,blood glucose,temperature,and oxygenlevelschecked,and chatwiththeteamabout practicalwaystostayhealthy andwell.
“We’reexcitedtobringthe HealthyTownsPop-UpClinicto
Tongala,”BradHodgefromthe LaTrobeRuralHealth InnovationHubsaid.
“It’safantasticopportunityfor thewholecommunityto prioritisetheirhealthwhile supportingourstudentnurses astheylearnandgrow.”
TongalaCommunityCentre OperationsManagerLeanne Pattisonsaidthecentrewas proudtohosttheevent
“It’sagreatwayforour communitytoaccessfree healthchecksandconnectwith ourfuturehealthprofessionals.”
Groundedinlocalpartnerships andledbytheneedsofeach community,HealthyTowns aimstomakehealthmore visible,accessible,and actionableacrossregional Victoria.
�� Where:TongalaCommunity Centre
�� When:Wednesday, November19,930am–12pm
�� Cost:Free–nobookings needed,justpopin!
Formoreinformation,visit www.healthytowns.orgor contactBradHodgeat B.Hodge@latrobe.edu.au
Kyabram & District Bush Verse Group Christmas Party
Sunday,December14 atKyvalleyHall th AnInvitationisextendedtoOne&Allto joinusforafun,social,afternoon. 12pmstart
$30perperson
Includes:Deliciouslunchandgreat entertainment;bushverse,yarns,and poetryfeaturingmembersof KyabramBushVerseGroupandvisiting performers Don’tmissthisgreat opportunitytolistento,andlaugh alongwith,thesetalentedfolk. Plus,therewillbearaffle. BookingsbeingtakenNow! Pleasecalltosecureyourseat/table. Greg-0418599924 Mick-0427522097 Paula-(03)58522281 Welookforwardtoseeingyouthere. ALLWELCOME
NextDancewillbeheldon Saturday, October25 7.30pm–11:30pm
Anyonelookingtotakeupdancing,asanew interest,ismostwelcome,alongwithourregular dancers.Youarealsoinvitedtocomealongfora friendlysocialevening,andsimplyenjoylisteningto populartunes,thatyouwillrecognisefromoverthe years Itwillbeatopeveningout,withyourfriends, orachancetomeetnewones!Greatmusic providedbyAndrewSpackman,delicioussupper, rafflesandluckydoorprizes AllWelcome Enquiries:PhoneBevon 58521853/0417360687 Hall:534ScobieRdKyvalley HALLISAIR-CONDITIONED
OurFREEAfterSchoolCareprogramis heldattheCommunityCentreevery Tuesdayfrom3:30pmto5:30pm Our programissupervisedbyqualified facilitatorsandassistedbyvolunteers
Takechargeofyourhealthwithfree checksfromLaTrobeUniversity’s HealthyTownsteam nobookings needed,justdropin! �� TongalaCommunityCentre �� Wed19Nov �� 9:30am–12:00pm �� www.healthytowns.org
TCACisofferingaplaceforcommunity memberstocatchup,haveachat,meetnew people,andenjoymorningtea
Thursday,October30,andThursday, November13,10am-11.30am
Monday9am-3pm
Tuesday9am-3pm Wednesday9am-3pm Thursday9am-3pm Friday9am–12pm
9.30amto10.30am $10persession
TCAC’syearofconnection
TheTongalaCommunity ActivitiesCentre(TCAC) helditsAnnualGeneral MeetingonWednesday, October9,celebrating anotherstrongyearof communityprograms, partnerships,andlocal impact
Theeveninghighlighted TCAC’sdiverseworkacross Tongala,includingthe successfuloperationof TongalaChildcare,the ongoingpublicationofthe TonnyTimes,andawide rangeofcommunityevents, trainingsessions,and wellbeingprograms Officebearerswerereelectedunopposed,with:
Treasurer:Greg Rossborough
TongalaandNathalia, Greenham’s,and Bunnings.
President:AndrewBader VicePresident: CatherineFranklin
Secretary/PublicOfficer: PatriciaMcMeeken
TheAGMalsoincludedthe presentationofthe2024–2025AnnualReport, featuringupdatesfromthe Coordinator,Treasurer,and Childcareteams CoordinatorLeanne Pattisonacknowledgedthe contributionsofvolunteers andcommunitypartners, notingthattheyearbrought bothchallengesand growth Highlightsincluded: Therelaunchof programsandactivities followingbuilding upgrades Thesuccessofevents suchasVolunteerWeek, NeighbourhoodHouse Week,andtheWinter Market.
MsPattisonthankedTCAC’s volunteersandsupporters fortheircommitmentto communitywellbeing, sayingtheirpassionwasthe foundationofeverythingthe Centreachieves.
“Weareincrediblygrateful toeveryonewho contributestheirtimeand energytomakeTCACsuch awelcomingand supportivespaceforall,” shesaid.
Expandingparticipation inTaiChi,Blokes Breakfast,Community Café,andArt/Craft workshops Continuedpartnerships withlocalorganisations includingthe CommunityBank
CopiesoftheTCAC AnnualReport2024–2025areavailablefrom theTongala CommunityActivities Centre,theTongala ChildcareCentre,and onlineviaTCAC’s Facebookpage.
Tongala Servicing & Repairs
WearealocalVACCAccredited workshopandmobilemechanicforall yourautomotiveoragriculturalservicing andrepairneeds.
Wedoeverythingfromservicingyour chainsawuptofixingyourbrokentractor orfarmmachinery,wealsooffermini diggerhire(withoperator). Nojobtoobigorsmall,feelfreeto giveusaringandaskifwecan helpwithanyofyour mechanicalneeds.
TongalaLionsmark53years
TheTongalaLionsClub markedits53rdbirthday onSeptember17, celebratingmorethanhalf acenturyofcommunity spirit,hardworkand friendship.
Theeveningwasawarm reflectionontheclub’s proudhistoryandthe manyprojectsthathave shapedTongalaacrossthe decades fromthe HoorootonilooFestivaland ClassicsontheGoulburn Rivertotheirworkin creatingLionsPark, supportingtheLearners Pool,andinstalling emergency“TochLights” throughoutthedistrict. Tocommemoratethe milestone,members producedaspecial
anniversarybooklet capturinghighlightsfrom morethanfivedecadesof service Thepublication featuresphotos,stories andmemoriesoftheclub’s mostmemorableprojects includingtheiconic UpsideDownDunny, fundraisingatthe
KanyapellaCup,and hostingthe300-strong LionsConventionin Tongala Copiesofthebookletare availablenowfromthe TongalaCommunity ActivitiesCentreand TongalaPharmacy a wonderfulkeepsake
celebratinglocalhistory andtheenduringspiritof communityservice
Theclubalsoextendeda warminvitationtolocals interestedingetting involved
“We’realwayslookingfor newmemberstojoinour team,”aspokesperson said “Ifyouwanttomakea difference,havefunand meetgreatpeople the Lionswouldlovetohear fromyou”
LornaMcConnellwithLions presidentMurrayRoss.
FranChapman-winnerof theunusualraffle.
DogParknowopen
Therewereplentyof waggingtailsandsmiling facesastheTongalaDog Parkofficiallyopenedits gateslastmonth a fantasticnewadditionfor localresidentsandtheir four-leggedfriends Thepurpose-builtpark featuresopenspaces, shadytrees,andsecure fencedareas,providingthe perfectplacefordogsto run,play,andsocialise whileownersrelaxand
catchupinasafe, welcomingenvironment Theopeningdaydrewa greatcrowd,withlocals andtheirpetseagerto explorethenewspaceand celebratethismilestonefor thecommunity Abigthankyougoesto everyoneinvolvedin bringingthisprojecttolife it’salreadyprovingtobe amuch-lovedmeeting spotforTongala’sdog lovers!
Co of
NOV 05 NOV 08
Amber Lawrence
8pm @ OTP Mangan St, Tongala
Tongala Development Group AGM
6.30am @ TCAC Meeting Room
Senior Citizens Mural Opening, 1pm @ 14 Cavell St, Tongala
Fire Safety Info
Session, 10am-11am @ 114 Mangan St, Tongala
Free health checks
9.30am-12pm @ TCAC
CHURCH SERVICES
StJamesAnglicanChurch Services:EveryTuesdayat 5pm
HollycommunionwithRev: SimonRobinson(from Mooroopna) AllWelcome Forinformationonservice times,phoneDonSlade (Warden)on0428503844 orDianeManganon 0427590282
StPatrick’sCatholicChurch PhonetheParishOfficeon (03)58521026
EmbraceChurch 80ManganSt,Tongala Morningservice:10am Servicesarealsolivestreamed PhonePsLynHopeon 0408821760.
NorthernRiversUniting ChurchClusterTongala Service10am. PhoneRayWakefieldon 0419933938 Servicesareavailableon Sunday.
The3r Regim Assoc holdit Comm ofthe atthe y onThursday,October23
ThemarchwillstartoppositetheTongalaHotelat 1.15pm,proceedingdownManganSttotheNational Memorial,withvehiclesfromthe3/4Cavalry Regimentandveteranstakingpart
Theservicewillbeginoncetheveteranshave assembledatthememorial,withTongalaPrimary SchoolandStPatrick’sassistingintheproceedings VeteransfromacrossAustraliaandNewZealandwill beinattendance.Everyoneiswelcometoattend.
Fullpage
Halfpage
Quarterpage
Eighthpage
Tradedirectory
CONTACT:
TongalaCommunity ActivitiesCentre
Phone:(03)58591268
94ManganStreet, Tongala,3621
OPEN:MondaytoFriday, 9amto2pm
n the QR CODE to ss the full-colour, extended digital on of Tonny Times
Octoberdeadline
Copydeadline: 07/11/25
Issuedate: 14/11/25
Email:tongalatimes@ tongala.vic.au
1stTuesdaymonthly,5pm 1st&3rdThursday,7pm 2ndTuesdayeverymonth 4thMonday,monthly 4thTuesday,monthly,1pm 4thWednesdday,6pm 3rdTuesday,Monthly,10am EveryWednesday
Celebrating50yearsofPNGIndependence
OnTuesday,September16,the TongalaCommunityActivities Centre(TCAC)partneredwith Qualifytohostaspeciallunch anddinnercelebratingthe vibrantPapuaNewGuinean communitywithinTongala Theeventmarked50yearsof PNGIndependence,bringing localstogethertosharestories, food,andcultureinawarm andwelcomingatmosphere
TCAChostsTongala’sfirstseniorsexpo
TheTongalaCommunity ActivitiesCentre(TCAC) proudlyhosteditsfirst-ever SeniorsExporecently a wonderfuldayof informationsharing, conversation,and communityconnection. Everyonewhoattended receivedafreeshowbag andaluckydoorticket, addingabitoffuntoaday filledwithfriendlyfaces, helpfuladvice,andplentyof goodfood. Visitorsenjoyedbrowsinga rangeofinformationbooths and jamwiththeirtea Thankyoutoourevent sponsor,theShireof Campaspe,forthe CommunityGrantthat helpedmaketheExpo
possible Theguestspeaker onthedaywasShelley Hoskin,Community EngagementCoordinator forCOTAVictoriaand SeniorsRightsVictoria,a statewideCommunityLegal Centresupportingolder
Victorians.Shelleyspoke abouttheimportanceof planningaheadasweage, including:
EstablishinganEnduring PowerofAttorney (EPOA)
DesignatingaMedical TreatmentDecision Maker EngaginginAdvance CarePlanning TCACextendsitsthanksto everyonewhocontributed totheday’ssuccessandall thevolunteerswhohelped bringitalltogether
FOOTYCOLOURSDAYFUN
WewrappeduplasttermintruesportingstylewithFootyColoursDay! �� Thedaykickedoffwithawhole-schoolparadeshowingoffanincrediblemix ofteamcolours beforestudentsenjoyedaseriesoffooty,netball,and teveryonefueledforthefun andjust getanybetter,wehadasurprisevisitfrom kstoMissReidforgettinghimoutofbed!)
GRADE2PIONEERCAMP
OurGrade2studentshadanunforgettabletimeatcamplastterm, beginningtheiradventurewithastopinKerangformorningrecessbefore divingintoajam-packedprogramofactivities.Theyexperiencedwhat schoollifewaslikein1918,madeanailwiththeblacksmith,wentona scavengerhunt,andenjoyedonelasthorseandcartridewithRocky The excitementcontinuedwithropemaking,carandhorserides,lamingtonmaking,a paddlesteamercruise,andavisittothephotoparlour,beforefinishingthe eveningwithpasta,icecream,andaspectacularlightshow
EMPOWEREDGIRLS
OurEmpoweredGirls@TPSprogramwrappeduplast termwithahugedayoflearning,laughter,andadventure! ThegirlsbegantheirmorningatWickham’sMartialArts CentreinEchucaforanempoweringSafeguardSelf Defencesession UndertheguidanceofDiandJanine, theylearnedpracticalstrategiestostaysafe trusting theirgutinstincts,usinginitiative,andavoidingsituations wheretheymightappearvulnerable Thegirlspractised howtoblockpunches,escapebearhugs,andstayaware oftheirsurroundings allwhilesupportingoneanother andhavingfun Afteranaction-packedmorning,the groupenjoyedsomewell-deserveddowntimewithvisits toGravityShack,McDonald’s,thePortArtGallery,anda sweettreatstopatAugustusforgelatoandaçaibowls.
WACKY WASTE WACKYWASTE
Lastterm,ourstudentsweretreatedtoanengagingperformanceofthePictureBookoftheYear,General Waste Theinteractiveshowhadeveryonelaughing,learning,andjoininginthefunfromstarttofinish Itwasa wonderfulwaytobringstoryt
FLORALVISIT
OnOctober7,ourGrade2 studentsweredelightedto returntotheTongala& DistrictMemorialAged CareServicetospendtime withtheirfriends.Together theyenjoyedawonderful morning makingbeautiful bunchesofflowersto brighteneveryone’sday.
LasttermourstudentsheadedtoTaturaforanAFLVic FootyFunDay.Wehadafantasticdayoffootyfun!
RUOK?DAY
LasttermwejoinedtogethertocelebrateRUOK?Day, remindingoneanotheroftheimportanceofchecking inandsupportingthepeoplearoundus.Aspartofthe day,wealsoacknowledgedouramazingstaffwitha specialtreatbox–asmallwayofsayingthankyoufor allthattheydoeachandeveryday.
TEAMWIN
Lastterm,ourLearningSupport TeamwashonouredastheVictoria TeamFinalistinthe2025Australian TeacherAideoftheYearAwards Thisrecognitioncelebratestheir passion,dedication,andteamwork increatinganinclusiveand supportivelearningenvironmentfor allstudents.Theirimpressiveglass trophyarrivedlastterm aproud reminderofanoutstanding achievement
SUPERBARTWORK
LastterminArt,studentsworkedhardon theirdrawingskillsandcolourtheory whiledesigningbackdropsfortheschool production Eachclasscreateddesigns inspiredbytheirdanceera MrsHill selectedtwoartworksfromeachclass, whichweredigitisedandprojectedon stageduringtheperformance
THE POWER OF DUCKS THEPOWEROFDUCKS
Someamazingphotosfromouroutstanding productionperformedlastterm:ThePowerof D k
$10,000BowleroftheYearAward
Morethan5000lawn bowlersacrossregional VictoriaandsouthernNSW willhavethechanceto sharein$10,000worthof cashandprizesaspartofa newinitiativelaunchedby WarramundaCommunity Care,inpartnershipwith MoamaBowlingClub Seventy-sixclubsfromthe GoulburnMurrayand BendigoCampaspe Goldfieldsregionswill competeforthetitleof WarramundaCommunity CareBowleroftheYear,with monthlyprizesandamajor $1000awardatseason’s end
EachmonthfromOctober toMarch,onebowlerfrom eachofthefiveplaying areas Goulburn,Murray, Bendigo,Campaspe,and Goldfields willreceivea $200cashprize,withfive runners-upreceiving MoamaBowlingClub
WarramundaCommunityCareDirectorLeahKonings (centre)withrepresentativesfromseveraloftheclubs.
vouchers.Accordingto WarramundaCommunity CareDirectorLeahKonings, theideawasdesignedto betterconnectwitholder communitymembers aheadofmajorreformsto theagedcaresystem, includingthenewAged CareActandSupportat Homeprogram commencingNovember1
“There’salotofconfusion aboutagedcarerightnow,” MrsKoningssaid.
“Wesawthisasacreative waytostartconversations, shareaccurateinformation, andensurepeoplefeel supported especially thoseconsideringcarefor themselvesorlovedones.”
Theawardwillrecognise notonlyplayersbutalso officialsandvolunteerswho goaboveandbeyondfor theirclubs
“Youdon’thavetobethe bestbowler itcouldbe someonewho’sdone
somethingincrediblefor theirclub,”MrsKoningssaid. Theprogramhasreceived strongsupportfromthe BendigoCampaspe GoldfieldsandGoulburn Murraybowlingexecutives, alongwithBowlsVictoria’s PatSchram.
Monthlywinnerswillbe announcedonthe
WarramundaCommunity CareFacebookpageand sharedwithclubsacross theregion.
WarramundaCommunity Care,basedinKyabram, recentlyexpandeditsinhomesupportservicesto coverthefullGoulburn MurrayandBendigo CampaspeGoldfields areas �� Formoreinformation abouttheawardorthe SupportatHomeprogram, phone(03)58522611or AwardCoordinatorRohan Aldouson0415892415.
CaptureNichollsforcalendar
Gotagreateyeforlocal life?
FederalMemberforNicholls
SamBirrelliscallingon photographers from seasonedprostoweekend snappers tohelp showcasethebeautyand characterofourregionin the2026PlacesofNicholls Calendar
Theannualcalendar celebrateseverythingthat makesourareaspecial, featuringphotostakenby localsthathighlightthe people,places,products, pets,andpersonalityofthe Nichollselectorate
“Thiscalendarisafantastic opportunitytoshinea spotlightonourbeautiful region,”MrBirrellsaid.
“Thinklocaltowns, communitygroups,farms, weatherevents,letterboxes,
pets,rivers,touristspots anythingthatreflectslifein Nicholls.”
Thetop12photoswillbe selectedforthecalendar, withfullphotocreditgiven toeachphotographer
Thewinningimageforthe frontcoverwillalsoreceive a$200giftvouchertoaGV photographystoreoftheir choice
�� EntryDetails
Photosmustbe landscapeorientation
Colourorblack&white accepted
Lighteditingallowed Mobilephonephotos welcome
Eachentrymustbetitled ornamed
Thousandsofcalendarswill beprintedanddistributed withlocalnewspapersin earlyDecember �� Entriesclose:Wednesday,October29,2025
Emailentriesto:sambirrellmp@aphgovau
Ordropthemat:426WyndhamStreet,Shepparton
SummerSportsReport
BOWLS
Ithasn’ttakenlongforthe TongalaBowlingClubto makeheadlinesinits100th year,facingoffagainst traditionalrivalKyabramin apennantbowlsgamefor thefirsttimesince1979.
Tongalaopenedits centenaryseasoninDivision Onewithaseven-shotwin againstRichRiver,but couldn’tmakeittwoina rowwhentherivalsmetin roundtwo.
ClubchampionMatt Livertonhasopenedthe yearwithtwowins by threeshotsinroundone andthenacommanding
nine-shotwinoverKyabram legendGregShilling. Livertonwassupportedby GregLyon,MarkCoulson andBarryTinning JackHammond,freshoffa greatfootballseasonwith theBlues,hadfatherSteve ashisthirdina15-alldraw inroundone,buttrailed RobertGeorgefromstartto finishinroundtwoandlost bythree BradTinningstartedthe seasonwhereheleftoffin 2024–25,winningroundone byfourshotswithSteve Usherlead,women’s championSallyBeach secondandBillHatziethird
Therinkcouldn’tmatchPaul McInnessfromKyabramon Saturdayandwasbeaten 14–25
Tongalalostthegame overallbyfiveshots,53–58 Highlights: Livertonled7–nilafter threeendsandpicked upafiveontheninth endforaneight-shot lead Hesecuredshoton severalofthefinalends forhis25–16win,which couldhavebeenbigger ifnotfordroppingfive onthe19th. InHammond’stight game,onlyoneshot separatedHammond
andGeorgewithtwo endstoplay;the Kyabramskipwonboth toprevailbythree BradTinningwassquare withMcInnessaftereight endsbutlostnineofthe final12endsforan11shotdefeat. DivisionTwolostby16shots inroundoneandwent downtoKyabraminround two65–49
GlennFieldsmanageda drawonhisrink,while ConnorTrewrenandKelvin Walshwerebeaten. DivisionThreewasanineshotloserinroundone, despitethe30–13winby
PeterKesson’srink(with StuartReid,TomBoothand MichaelWeardon) Inroundtwotheteamwas outplayedbyKyabramand lost44–78
BernieTinning’srinklostby justtwoshotsand producedthreefour-shot ends,goingdown18–20. WayneAndrewled6–nil afterfourendsofhismatch withWayneChambers,but wonjustfiveofthenext17 endsandlost13–22.
TENNIS
Tongalawillstartits
GoulburnMurrayLawn TennisAssociationseason
atStanhopeonSaturdayin GM2.
InGM4,Tongalafacesthe KyabramRedbacksinthe openinground Inthejuniors,Tongala DivisionOnewilltackle Echucainthefirstroundof theseasononSaturday (October18)inthe Campaspeassociation
CRICKET
TeenagerMitchCornwall andA-gradecaptain JaydenTuckerproduced thehighlightsafterTucker wonthetossandchoseto batintheopeningone-day gameoftheseasonagainst
RochesteratWindridge OvalonSaturday Tuckertop-scoredforthe Blues,arrivingatthecrease withhisteam3/45inthe 15thover.
HeandRyanSmithadded 50inthenext16overs beforeSmithwasdismissed for26 Tuckerwentontostrikefive boundariesina65-ball40, buthisdismissalcame amidstacollapsethatsaw theteamlose5/31
DylanTaylorandMatt Ohlsenproduceda rearguardeffort;Ohlsen made19from28ballsand Taylor14(includingthree
boundaries)from21 Theyadded34fortheninth wicket,buttheBlueswereall outfor163withonlyoneball oftheinningsremaining. MitchCornwall(picturedon theoppositepageinthe Under-17gameonFriday) tooktwoofthefour Rochesterwicketstofallin therunchase,whichbegan withthevisitorsscoring50 offthefirstnineovers. Cornwallremovedboth openersandfinishedwith 2/19fromfiveovers, includingtwomaidens DarinOhlsenandZac
ContinuedonPage46
SummerSportsReport
McKenzieeachtookone wicketasRochester claimedthepoints, reaching4/165in381overs
TheUnder-17splayeda combinedRochester/ Bamawm-Lockington Unitedteamintheopening roundonFridayatthe recreationreserve They werealloutfor101in333 overs,withCrueLucas (battingatNo.9)topscoring.
Hemade22from12balls, includingthreeboundaries,
supportingSethChantler (11)andMurphyStephens (10off12balls)
TheUnder-13teamplays MoamaonWednesdayto opentheseasonandthe Under-11Mixedteamplays KyabramFireBrigadeon Friday bothatBrose Reserve
B-gradestartsthis weekend(Saturday, October18)andD-grade kicksoffonOctober25with itsfirstgameagainst Moama
What’shappeningontherinks
TONGALAGIRLGUIDES
SpringFoursafullhouse
Whatanamazingdayit wasattheTongalaBowling ClubonSeptember24,as thegreenscamealivefor theclub’sfirsttournament oftheseason andavery specialoneinitscentenary year!
TheCentenaryLadies SpringFoursdrewafull houseofteamsfrom acrosstheregion,with plentyofcolour,laughter andcompetitivespiriton displaythroughouttheday �� Winners:JoyGardam, SandraWallace,Marg SmythandCathyDudley (SheppartonPark)
�� RunnersUp:Rhonda Gallagher,ChrisEgan,Joan DovastonandMichelle Cunnington
�� ThirdPlace:DotBest, VickiWhebell,Karen TrewenandValGibbs. MajorsponsorBrendan McConnellofMcConnell
FirstNationalRealEstate wasonhandtopresentthe winners’prizemoney
“Itwasgreattoseesucha largecrowd,withsomany clubsrepresented.“
Theclubextended heartfeltthankstoall sponsorswhomadethe daypossible:McConnell FirstNationalRealEstate, McConnellBusOperations, TongalaLicensedPost Office,TongalaBakery, AlbionMotorsKyabram, SamMcLeodAutomotive, RossNevettAutomotive, CiavarellasBettaHome Living,andBagTag.
�� Raffleprizeswere generouslydonatedby TongalaPharmacy, TongalaIGA,GTSFarm Supplies,BagTag,Don Bish,andBernieTinning withspecialthankstoPat McMeekenforhertireless ticket-sellingefforts!
�� Thedayransmoothly thankstothemany helpersbehindthescenes
KayleneTrevaskis,Beth Vistarini,RosKellet,Jenny Reid,andBernieTinning fortheirwonderfulworkin thekitchen;PeteTinning forumpiring;andPossum andVistaforthe beautifullyprepared greens.
What’shappeningontherinks
As property values across Victoria continue to shift, now is the perfect time to get a current market opinion on your home.
EXTRA TONNY TIMES
OCTOBER
CLUB CALLS FOR MEMORIES
publicationisbeingprepared(with supportfromtheKyabramClub)
Itwillfeaturephotographs,interviews withthefamiliesofformer champions,alookbackatevery decade,andadeepdiveintothe100 MostInfluentialPeopleintheclub’s history
GeoffandKeithTinning bothin their90sandwitnesstomoreofthe club’shistorythanalmostanyone willbeamongthoseinterviewed Theclubisrelyingoncontributions fromthecommunity,particularlythe familiesofformerstars,tohelp gatherinformation
Anyonewhohasdrivenpastthe bowlingclubinthelast12monthswill
muralontheclubhousewall celebratingitshistory,alongwiththe spruced-upentrancetothehistoric site.
Thereare,however,afewgapsinthe records andthere’snothingsurer thanthattheTongalacommunitywill beabletohelpfillthem
NameslikeTinning,Smith,McGregor, Reidell,Purdey,Campbell,Slade, Raggatt,Boase,Crockett,Dick,Fuller, Gooda,Hitchens,Gilbert,Trevaskis, NormanandRyan amongmany others dominatethehonourboards thatproudlyhanginsidethe clubhouse
Todotheclubjustice,TonnyTimesis reachingouttoanyonewhohas
particular)andinformationonsome ofthefollowingpeople.
Amodern-daycontactfortheclub’s firstmaleandfemalepresidents,Bill andMaryGooda,wouldalsobe fantastic
Anumberofformerchampionswillbe recognisedduringthecentenaryyear, includingAlbySmith(12-timeclub singleschampionandtwo-time Campaspechampion),Geoff Cameron(15clubtitles),DesPurdey andGeoffCrockett(bothfive-time champions),andGwenHitchens (nine-timeladies’championand formerpresident).
ContinuedonPage2ofTTE
Lot1O’DeaRoadKoyuga
Prime14-acrelifestylehomesitewiththe flexibilityofTownshipzoning,sealedroad frontage,andaconvenientlocationjust 9kmfromTongalaand18kmfromEchuca
Toregisteryourinterestortofind outmore,callortextBrendanon 0407344995orTomon0457771813.
Big changes to aged care from November 1
FromNovember1,major reformsbegin:thenew AgedCareAct,updated QualityStandards,and SupportatHome(replacing HomeCarePackagesand Short-TermRestorative Care)
SupportatHomeintroduces eightlevelsofhelpsoolder Australianscanliveathome longer.
Australianscanliveathome longer
Clinicalservices(nursing, alliedhealth)remainfully funded;co-paymentsmay applyfornon-clinical supports(e.g.cleaning, transport)dependingon circumstances
TheGovernmentisadding 40,000homecare packagesin2025and
63,000SupportatHome placesbymid-2026 HowWarramundacan help:
WarramundaCommunity Carecanexplainyour options,helpwithMyAged Carereferralsand assessments,outlinefees andlevels,andsupport smoothtransitionsifyou’re switchingproviders while
keepingyourservices running Theyprovidein-home supportacrosstheregion.
Info&support:MyAged Care1800200422 myagedcaregovau
Localhelp:Warramunda CommunityCare (03)58526111.
Harley visits Warramunda
WarramundaVillagewas buzzingearlierthismonth whenTongala’sownHarley Reid nowarisingWest CoastEaglesstar madea surprisevisitthatlitup residents,staffandthe widercommunity Harleysharedamusical momentwithresident pianistTopsyMotton,who promisedtolearnthe Eagles’theme;Harley vowedtoreturnafterashort Queenslandbreaktosingit withtheresidents Thevisitwasagenuine homecoming:Harley’smum
Vanessaandgrandmother MaryReidbothworkedat Warramunda,andgreat auntyAnnKellyremainsa much-lovedteammember. WarramundaCEOJohn Clark aformerTongala premiershipplayerfromDes Campbell’s1983–84backto-backteams praised Harleyfortakingtimeto visit.
RegularsoftheVillagecafé TheSwitchinclude Campbell,formerGVL gamesrecordholderMick Souter,andchampion defenderMickLovison the
fondlynamed “Warramunda1stXVIII” ThepostaboutHarley’svisit setanewrecordon Warramunda’sFacebook pagewith628likes, reflectingjusthowmuch footymeanstoresidents Amongthosetomeet HarleywereLeoConnally (1965GVLAbikhairMedallist andTFNClifemember)and StanColdwell(multipremiershipMerrigum stalwartandKyabram100gamer) Adayofsmiles,memories andhometownpride.
Helping you and your loved ones live comfortably at home for longer
We’reheretoprovidethesupportyouneed soyoucan continuelivingindependently,whereyoufeelmostat home.OnecalltoWarramundaCommunityCarecan changeeverything!
StayatHomeLongerwithtailoredIn-HomeSupport OurservicesaredesignedtomakeWarramunda communitycarepackagesmoreaccessible,withsimple solutions,reliableservice,andflexibledeliverytailoredto yourneeds Don’tstressaboutwheretobegin,JUSTCALL!
Fishi f b ll
Septemberisfootyfinals time,andforLeoConna it’salwaysbeenhis favouritetimeofyear Thisyear,however,sprin carriesevenmoremean asLeocelebrateshis90 birthday aremarkable milestoneinalifedefine byfootball,farming,fam andanunwavering connectiontotheTonga community.
Leo,sonsDavidand Gavin,nieceLouise (whoworksat Warramunda),and daughter-in-lawAnnie.
Nowaresidentat Warramunda,Leorema afamiliarfaceandamu lovedfigureinlocalcircl notleastbecauseofhis legacywiththeTongala FootballNetballClub.
Alifememberoftheclub Leospentdecades contributingbothonthe fieldandoff shapingthe club’sfortunesand strengtheningthefabricof thetown.
BorninMurchisonon17 August1935,Leowasthe youngestofsevenina hardworkingfarmingfamily TheConnallyssettledin Kyabram,withdairyfarming intheirbloodand communityspiritattheir core
buildinghislandholding overtime Hisclassic8-asideherringbonedairywas alocallandmark.Hespent 40yearsontheland embracingnew technologies,raisinga family,andalwaysfinding timeforthethingsheloved most:fishing,football,and theoccasionalbeer.
Leo’splayingdaysbeganat Lancasterbeforehemoved toTongala,wherehe
runningparalleltothe early-morningdemandsof milkingcows
Whileheneverplayedina premiership,Leo’sskillsand sportsmanshipwerewidely recognised In1965,hewonthe prestigiousAbikhairMedal forbestandfairestinthe GoulburnValleyLeague reserves,andhefinished equalfirstinLancaster’s seniorbestandfairest
Thoughapremiership eludedhim,Leosawhisson Daveenjoygrandfinalglory underthelegendaryDes Campbellinthe1980s. Footballwas,andremains, aconstantintheConnally family
Threegenerationshave nowpulledontheboots, withLeoproudlywatching hisgrandsonPatricktake thefieldforEchucainthe GVL
family and fun
Leo’scontributionto TongalaFNCextendedfar beyondgameday
Duringchallengingtimesfor theclub,hewasamonga smallgroupofdedicated supporterswhokeptit afloat cuttingwood, sellingraffletickets,and evencatchingredfinatLake Hindmarshtosellandraise funds.
Histirelesseffortsearned himlifemembership a testamenttohisdedication, generosity,anddeeprootedcommunitypride In1960,Leomarried Jeanette,andtogetherthey becamepillarsoftheirlocal community
Theyraisedtwosons,Gavin andDave,andwereblessed withsevengrandchildren andtwogreatgrandchildren.
Thecouplemovedinto Warramundain2020,and after60yearsofmarriage, Jeanettepassedawayin 2023.
Sincethen,Leohas continuedtostayactive, socialandengagedwithhis community justashe
alwayshas.Oneofhis favouriteweeklyritualsnow takesplaceatTheSwitch CaféinsideWarramunda, wherehejoinsagroupof formerTongalaplayersand supportersforregular coffeecatch-ups.
Knownasthe“Warramunda FirstXVIII,”thegroupwas formedbyMickLovisonand supportedbyWarramunda VillageCEOJohnClark himselfaTongala premiershipplayer. Thecatch-upsarefullof laughter,memoriesand
footytalk exactlythekind ofconnectionLeovalues most Leo’sroomatWarramunda isatributetohislife: WesternBulldogsposterson thewall,photosoffamily andfootball,andreminders ofalifewelllived Hislegacyisetchednotonly intherecordsofthe TongalaFootballNetball Clubbutinthelivesofthose whocontinuetobenefit fromhisexampleofloyalty, generosityandgood humour
Leoin1965afterwinning theGoulburnValley League’sAbikhairMedal fortheleagueB&Finthe reservescompetition.He isalongsideGVLHallof Famemember,and formerCollingwood player,RayWillett.Ray wontheMorrisonMedal onfouroccasionsinthe 1960swhileplayingfor Mooroopna.
At90,LeoConnally remainsasspiritedas ever amanwhohas givensomuchtohisclub, histownandhisfamily Asanotherfinalsseason passes,wecelebrateLeo notjustasalifemember oftheclub,butasalife memberofthe community
Fishing,football,family andfun that’sthe Connallyway. Anddespiteenteringhis tenthdecade,Leo’sstill showingushowit’sdone
LeowithhissonDaveandgrandson,Patrick,after playinghisfirstGVLgamewithEchucaasateenager.
Regional Round UP
GIRGARRE
GargarroBotanicGardensis infullcolouratthistimeof yearandlookinggreat aheadoftheOpenGardens Festival–Girgarre& SurroundsonSunday, October26,(ticketedevent) Ahuge8-m-tallBanksiawill beunveiledatthefestival astrikingnewadditionto thegardens GardenPassesinclude entrytofourlocalgardens between10am–230pm, plusanextraordinaryhigh teaatBonshawfrom2–4pm TheGargarroBotanic GardensandGirgarre SoundWalkarealsowithin walkingdistanceofthe nurseryandarefreeto wander. Therewillbeceramicbird displays,floral demonstrations,andlive musicthroughouttheday GirgarrePrimarySchoolwill runabarbecuefundraiser atBonshawfrom11am–4pm Arafflewillsupport GirgarreCommunityCar andFriendsofGargarro BotanicGardens Prizes includeastunning handmadequiltandawide rangeoftop-quality gardeningproducts Tickets:$25 purchase onlineateventshumanitix com/girgarre-opengardens-festivalorat GargarroGreenThumbs Nursery.
Forupdates,followthe Facebookpage“Open GardensFestival–Girgarre &Surrounds”
Enquiries:opengardens festival@outlook.comorcall Loraine(0438546237)or Bernie(58572407)
KYABRAM
Intereach,DairyAustralia andPrimaryCareConnect invitelocalfarming communitiestoatwo-hour workshopinKyabramon Thursday,October23,to helpemployers,employees andnewarrivalsstaysafe whendrivingandoperating farmvehicles
SupportedbyAgriculture VictoriaandtheGardiner Foundation,theworkshop providestoolsand resourcestosupport multiculturalworkersand theirfamilieswhile addressingkeyon-farm andon-roadsafetyrisks PresentationsbyWorkSafe, JacobsAgSolutions, VictoriaPolice,PDVSafety Compliance,anda professionaldriving instructorwillcover: Practicaltipsforsafe drivingonandoffthe farm Guidanceonlegaland moralresponsibilities Simplestepstoputsafe workpracticesinto action
Legalobligationsfor overseaslicenceholders Opportunitiestoconnect withtrainersand supportservices Alightlunchwillbe provided Registerby4pm, Monday,October20: https://bit.ly/Safety-Ky25 ROCHESTER
TheRochesterMotoring ClubAnnualShow’n’Shine onOctober25showcasesa diversearrayofvehicles classiccars,motorcycles andtrucks Enjoyfoodvans, livemusicandamarket atmosphereatRochester Racecourse,8am-2pm.
Win a Cup Day Experience
Flemingtonisn’ttheonly placetobeonMelbourne CupDay theEchuca RacingClubwillbe celebratinginstyle,andone luckyTonnyTimesreader canjointheactionforfree We’regivingawaya10personumbrellapackage valuedat$450 Theprizeincludesentryto theMoamaBowlingClub MelbourneCupDay meetingonTuesday, November4,plusan umbrellawithtableand chairsonthelawn the perfecttracksidebasefor youandyourfriends. Toenter,simplyemailyour nameandcontactnumber totongala@tongalatimes comauwiththewords MelbourneCupDay
Ifyoumissout,don’tworry ticketsarestillavailable Generaladmissionis$25,or youcanstepuptothe Rhythm&ReinsMarquee, whichincludesadmission, lunchanda4½-hour beveragepackage,withlive musicfromJadeCamden Arangeofumbrella packagesarealso available. Freeshuttlebuseswillrun from1030am,withpick-ups inEchuca(oppositethe EchucaHotelandatthe CaledonianHotel)and Moama(BorderInnand MoamaBowlingClub).
Formoreinformation call54822487orvisit country.racing.com/ echuca
IntheheartoftheGoulburn Valley,wherenewhousing estatesarereshapingthe landscape,onelocal businessishelpingresidents makethemostoftheir backyardspace
KyabramShedsand Garages,ownedand operatedby25-year-old ZakParkinson,isfast becomingthego-toname foraffordable,high-quality shedsthatsuittownblocks perfectly Zak’sfamilyhasadeep connectiontotheregion,in particularTongala.
Withathree-generation familyhistoryrootedin farmingontheoutskirtsof town,Zakisbuildingmore thanjustsheds he’s buildingonalegacy Hisfather,Andrew,andthe Parkinsonfamilyhavelong beenknownfortheirworkin dairyfarmingandartificial insemination,whilehis mother,Kara,andthe Newtonfamilyare respectedfortheir contributionstothedairy andhorse-training industries ZakgrewupinKyabram, attendingHaslemStPrimary andlaterKyabramP–12
Zak doe ll h h y lifting
runningsmallbusinesses
Withinsulation,rollerdoors, windowsandcustom extensions,Zak’sshedsare tailoredtomeettheneeds ofmodernhomeowners. Zakisbecomingmore involvedintheplanning phaseforhisclientsand hopestosoontacklethe permitapplicationprocess onbehalfofhisgrowing customerbase.
becomehisownbusiness venture
In2022,ZaklaunchedZap WeldingandFabrication, initiallytakingoncontract workinlocalfactories. Butitwasn’tlongbeforehe sawgrowingdemandinthe residentialshedspace, particularlyinnewestates wherehomeownerswere lookingforpractical, affordablestoragesolutions.
q , said.
“Forme,it’slikeputting togetherabigMeccanoset Onceyou’vedonethem everyday,youknowexactly howtomakeitwork”
ZakspecialisesinBestSheds kits,whichareidealfortown blocks.Thesearen’t industrialsheds;they’re designedforeverydayuse storingcaravans,boats andlawnmowers,oreven
Hesaidtherewereseveral keyconsiderationsinestate builds amongthem, height
“Anythingoverfourmetres totheeavesisrarein estates,”Zaksaid.“ButIwork withclientstomakesurethe shedsuitstheirspaceand purpose”
Mostbackyardshedstake 5–7daystoconstruct,and Zakworkssolo,ensuring qualityandconsistency fromstarttofinish He’s oftencalledintorescueDIY jobsthathavegoneoff track
“There’sarightorderto everything,”hesays.“Ifyou putonethinginthewrong spot,you’llruninto problems I’vebeencalledin halfwaythroughjobstofix thingsup”
