The Community Voice, Go Nagambie | Wednesday February 16 2022, Issue 493

16 FEBRUARY 2022 | ISSUE 493 | FREE

WWW.GONAGAMBIE.COM.AU

Anglers flocked to Nagambie from all over the country in pursuit of one thing - GoFish Nagambie’s infamous $80k cod.

This year, the hometown advantage paid off as 18 year old local boy Jono Moore landed his first metre cod, measuring 105cm on Saturday morning to claim the top spot on the leaderboard.

18

year old Jono Moore has been crowned the king of Nagambie taking home the $80,000 cash prize for landing the biggest Murray Cod at GoFish Nagambie 2022.

By chance, Jono and his mate ran into their hero and GoFish ambassador, Paul Worsteling from IFish TV at the Nagambie Bakery after just getting off the water.

“They had the biggest grins on their face. I asked them if they’d had a good morning on the water. They were shaking and said they reckon they’d just landed the winner,” smiled Paul.

The story of the hook up is quite something with Jono fishing in his third GoFish Nagambie tournament.

“It was my second morning casting big surface lures. I flicked near a big log in a bit of fast flowing water and the big cod smashed my lure and took me into the snags. It took about 5 minutes to get it up next to the boat and it was only just pinned with one hook,” said Jono.

The fish was netted and placed safely into the boat for what would be Jono’ first ever 1 metre cod.

Saturday night was a long wait for Jono as anglers still had 3.5 hours on Sunday to try and top the 105cm monster Murray Cod. Jono’s catch stood up to the challenge measuring 2 cm larger than his nearest opponent.

As to what he’s going to do with the cash. Jono wants to buy a fully kitted out boat to pursue the rest of the big fish in the Goulburn River, but Jono’s mum, Alison, has suggested he puts a deposit on a block of land...Read more on page 3.

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The Community Voice is a free community newspaper published by Go Nagambie on a fortnightly basis. The Community Voice has an average fortnightly circulation of 2000 Anyone interested in obtaining a copy of the Community Voice can collect one from the following circulation points: Nagambie Visitors Information Centre, Nagambie Newsagency, Nagambie Iga, Nagambie Post Office, Nagambie HealthCare – (for resident collection), Kelvin Grove Village (for resident collection), Nagambie Leisure Park, Avenel Post Office.

General Advert Sizes/Rates Full Page

T84 - 374 x 260mm

450.00

1/2 Page (H)

T82 - 374 x 129mm

240.00

1/2 Page (V)

T44 - 186 x 260mm

240.00

1/4 Page (H)

T42 - 186 x 129mm

125.00

1/4 Page (V)

T24 - 92 x 260mm

125.00

1/8 Page (H)

T41 - 186 x 63mm

65.00

1/8 Page (V)

T22 - 92 x 129mm

65.00

1/16 Page

T21 - 92 x 63mm

35.00

Strip

T14 - 63 x 260mm

65.00

Go Nagambie Advert Sizes/Rates Full Page

T84 - 374 x 260mm

405.00

1/2 Page (H)

T82 - 374 x 129mm

216.00

1/2 Page (V)

T44 - 186 x 260mm

216.00

1/4 Page (H)

T42 - 186 x 129mm

112.50

1/4 Page (V)

T24 - 92 x 260mm

112.50

1/8 Page (H)

T41 - 186 x 63mm

58.50

1/8 Page (V)

T22 - 92 x 129mm

58.50

1/16 Page

T21 - 92 x 63mm

31.50

Strip

T14 - 63 x 260mm

58.50

What we do

The Committee

Go Nagambie is the promotional name for the regions incorporated Chamber of Commerce – Nagambie Lakes Tourism and Commerce Inc.

President: Lee Rowland - Go Adventure Nagambie

Our vision is to make Nagambie, a premier regional centre for liveability, investment, visitation and events, with our focus being to unashamedly promote Nagambie and the surrounding regions through the support of our local community and businesses.

Secretary: John Beresford – Ironstone Advisory

If you have any queries relating to Go Nagambie and/or memberships on offer, please contact Sissy Hoskin on 0419 627 276 or email executiveofficernltc@gmail.com

Vice President: Belinda Beer

Treasurer: Bruce Minchinton – Tahbilk Winery Executive Officer: Sissy Hoskin General Committee: Chrissy McNeill – CRC Constructions Rosie Metherill – Silo bag Amanda McLaren – Yapunyah Chickens Bob Gardiner – Bob’s Belts Adam Sangster – Swettenham Stud Tim Goodacre Malcolm Little

There are exciting times ahead for Nagambie in terms of economic and tourism development and we hope you will join us as we continue to grow.

The Go Nagambie committee meets every 4 to 6 weeks with their Annual General Meeting usually held in October each year,

gonagambie.com.au Would you like more information or like to feature in The Community Voice?

Advertising........ advertising@thecommunityvoice.com.au Editorial.............. editor@thecommunityvoice.com.au Design................. hello@psdezign.com Sissy Hoskin...... 0419 627 276

Follow on Facebook and Instagram.

Disclaimer The views expressed in this publication do not necessarily reflect the views of Go Nagambie. Every effort is made by the Go Nagambie to ensure that the information contained within the Community Voice is correct. Personal views expressed in this pubclication are soley those of the respective contributors and do not reflect those of the publisher or its agents.

Reproduction in whole or in part of this publication is strictly prohibited without prior consent.

Photographic rights remain the propery of The Community Voice Newspaper.

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Biggest Golden Perch $8K Pictured: Nicole and her son William.

Nicole won the biggest Golden Perch prize at GoFish ($8K).

Nicole and her family camped on the river during the GoFish Nagambie tournament. They are all thrilled and had a terrific weekend!

Jono works for Wrights Earthmoving and fishes most weekends depending on sporting commitments.

“Dad and I have always fished together, enjoying Easter camping with family friends from Nagambie. Our holidays always revolved around fishing.

“In primary school, my mates and I fished before and after school off the boardwalk in Nagambie.

We then got Kayaks and fished most weekends

in the lake. Once we got our boat licence we were able to move about a bit more.

“It’s great to have mates that are also keen fishermen. We camp out on the river so that we can get out early whenever we can. We were lucky to grow up in a town with the freedom to do that.

“It still feels like it’s not real. Definitely life changing though!” Jono ended.

At the GoFish Nagambie 2022 tournament 2,255

fish were caught compared with 1,460 in 2021.

GoFish Nagambie this year made dreams come true with the competition on the Goulburn River waterways. Congratulations to all of the winners and every angler who fished this tournament.

Their enthusiasm and love of fishing, nature and the waterways will be carried on for generations to come.

Pictured: Jono Moore with Rhys Creed from Social Fishing and Paul Worsteling from IFish TV, both GoFish Nagambie ambassadors.

Chris O’Brien (Melbourne) - Winner of Golden Hour on 11/2/22 for a 42cm yellow belly. Prize was a $1,300 Honda 2.3hp boat motor.

GOFISH NAGAMBIE What a Weekend!

Well if you didn’t enter, or think you aren’t a fisher-person, you did miss out on an ‘experience’. A great experience I will add, where families camped and worked together, where friends got together (and probably drank or talked too much), and where we became part of the great outdoors.

Yes, I know, a bit DM, however, we all do need to drag ourselves away from the daily grind occasionally, and just ‘BE’.

Now I was a “Land Fisher”, as in I chucked my lines off the river bank. Luckily we have good friends who have a property on the Goulburn River and so were able to set up camp near the water, and fish.

Days were crammed with fishing and evenings with a fire, marshmallows and good conversations.

Now I admit the camp bed and mattress didn’t agree with my back and knees, but I slept particularly well (not all to do with the red wine) and had the coffee on by 0630-ish. Lines in by 0700 and as a new day awoke, the hope of a mega Cod was a-buzz.

We are talking $80,000 here, and it goes down to tenth place, where a $1000 starts the show. Would certainly pay for petrol and marshmallows. Four species were on the menu, European Carp, Golden Perch (yellowbelly), Murray Cod and Redfin, chuck the rest away as they are cutting into your

fishing time. Friday times were 0630 to 5pm, Saturday 0630 til 4pm and Sunday 0630 to 10am.

Yes I know that they start biting in the evening to the last light, however you had to get back to the Hub, at the Regatta Centre to enjoy the festivities, which actually were pretty good. A band, traders, a ‘pub’ etc, saw the evening sorted.

As one of your Ward Councilors, I put down my rods on Friday evening, and attended the “Women In Fishing” event. I was pleased to see eighty or more ladies/kids involved, with workshops and various activities, designed to encourage female involvement in fishing. I had never thought of fishing as a male dominated ‘sport’, however it was great to see the ladies and kids involved. In fact the Fly Fishing casting record is held by a petite Brazilian woman, who regularly out casts all the men. Anyhow, fishing has no barrier as such, regarding gender or age, and a gentle touch is often needed.

So you ask? Did I catch any fish?? Well, having missed out on the $60 million Powerball on Thursday, I did luck in, with 17 fish caught, to be precise. Can’t help but brag a bit after 60 years of fishing, best outing yet. I will add that last year after 3 grueling days, only one carp, which didn’t make the cut. I did win the Carp-O-Clock prize on Saturday and Sunday, greedy I know.

They pick a time of day, closest to 61cms, and as fortune would have it, I hit the ‘mark’. $1000 Anaconda fishing pack x 2! Yes unjust I know. An official said to me they didn’t know anyone who had won it two days in a row. I told them that I didn’t know anyone who had won it once in a row!

Now like you, I am glad all the boats and visitors have left our shores and I can settle back to the Nagambie we live in and love. Now I need to mow the lawn I neglected over the weekend and bring the bins in from Thursday I left out, in my rush to get set up for the fishing adventure. So back to normal, however the experience was memorable and the friend and family time irreplaceable. All catch and release, except our Carp friends, who you humanely dispatch. I removed 9 of them this trip. They do damage our lovely waterways, so good riddance.

Do have a ‘crack’ next year, take the partner, take the kids, and get another family or mates to join in. Best moment…..hot shower with soap when I got home. If I hadn’t camped out, then the shower would not have rated a mention.

Cheers,

By Dave Andrews

4 | THE COMMUNITY VOICE | 16 FEBRUARY 2022 | ISSUE 493

Have your say on Council’s four-bin kerbside collection Strathbogie Shire Council is calling on the community to have its say on three potential rollout options for a new four-bin system, to be instated by 2025.

The new system, which will feature an additional 240-litre purple-lid bin for glass to all households with, or eligible for a kerbside service, to be collected monthly.

It comes after a Victorian Government requirement, as part of its ‘Recycling Victoria’ 10-year policy and action plan, that all Councils throughout the state move to a new 4-bin system.

Impressive plans for Nagambie Foreshore Walk

Strathbogie Shire Council Mayor Cr Laura Binks said the community now has the chance to vote on its preferred scenario from three proposed options.

The $3.8 million pathway – which stretches for 1.6km along the southern edge of Lake Nagambie – will provide a safe and accessible pedestrian link between the Nagambie Regatta Centre and the Nagambie township.

“Council engaged a consultant to develop the three different options which all propose different costs, collection frequencies for different bins and waste diversion implications,” Cr Binks said.

The plans show a shared path featuring concrete on-land walkways and boardwalks over the water.

“Council has worked hard to ensure a fully accessible path is wide enough to allow simultaneous passage of pedestrians and cyclists,” Strathbogie Shire Council Mayor, Cr Laura Binks, said.

“We have also ensured the path will have minimal environmental impacts – moving sections on water ensures the protection of vegetation along the shoreline.

“The pathway will include sit-out areas and solar lighting at regular intervals for night passage.”

Council awarded the tender for construction of the pathway at its Extraordinary Council Meeting to Shepparton-based company Gradian Projects.

Work is expected to start in March.

The project is made possible by a $3 million Victorian Government Regional Development Victoria Grant, along with $350,000 Federal Government grant provided in May 2019,

$250,000 from Strathbogie Shire Council and $200,000 provided by Nagambie businesses.

The Nagambie Foreshore Walk will be a safe and accessible connection between Nagambie Lakes Regatta Centre, the Nagambie Lakes Leisure Park and the town centre.

“Above and beyond this, it will create an attractive and iconic walking trail for residents and visitors to enjoy year-round,” Cr Binks said.

“The path will support township connectivity, economic development and safe, healthy, active living.”

“The introduction of the new purple-lid glass bin will mean the items you put in your yellow-lid recycling bin won’t be contaminated by broken glass.

Cr Binks explained why contamination can happen in the yellow recycling bins.

“Not only that, but the new glass bin will reduce the amount of materials in your yellow recycling bin by 32 per cent.”

“When glass is mixed with other recyclable materials it can shatter and this contaminates valuable, easy-to-recycle materials such as paper and cardboard,” Cr Binks said.

Community members are invited to visit https:// share.strathbogie.vic.gov.au/four-bin-kerbsideservice to vote on their preferred option, read our FAQs document and watch a quick video explaining the transition to four bins.

Cr Binks said the new four-bin system will be up and running by 2025, when Council’s current waste contract expires.

“The reason why we’re seeking feedback from our community so far out from the system being put in place is due to the complexity of establishing waste contracts,” Cr Binks said.

“We want to give ourselves plenty of time to provide a seamless transition to the new contract so that we can reach the Victorian Government target of having a glass bin introduced no later than 2027, well ahead of time.”

Cr Binks encouraged community members to have their say via Share Strathbogie.

“We are eager to hear your thoughts on which scenario you prefer to ensure all community members are receiving the best possible waste service.”

Scholarship program to benefit Nagambie’s youth Nagambie and district students will again benefit from a scholarship program, which will supplement their study costs in their first year of higher education.

Bendigo Bank Nagambie’s Branch Manager Michael Prowse said the Bendigo Bank Nagambie Community Scholarship program was launched because the branch believed local students deserved a fair chance to achieve their dreams.

“We know an investment in their education will help young people gain access to tertiary education and will yield great returns to the student, their families and the local community.

“Ultimately, we want to be part of a system that transforms the lives of local students, so we’re committed to creating pathways to allow that opportunity.”

Successful applicants will initially receive $3,000

funding for one year and depending on academic performance, the scholarship may be renewed to assist in the second year of their study.

Earlier this year, the Bendigo Bank Nagambie Community Scholarship was awarded to local student Carmelo Gattuso. Carmelo is studying a Bachelor of Education at RMIT Bundoora and is grateful for the assistance the Scholarship has provided.

Carmelo’s mother Pina said “Carmelo was able to pay for his text books and contribute to the cost of living away from home. The scholarship has relieved some of the financial pressure and helped ease the transition.”

Bendigo Bank Nagambie Branch Manager Michael Prowse said “It’s because of our customers

that we’re able to run programs like this, without their support the funds wouldn’t be available.

We’re really impressed with everything Carmelo has achieved in 2021 and our customers can feel proud that they’ve paid a part in assisting him” Applications are invited from eligible students, starting their studies in 2022, from 1 December 2021 and will close on 18 February 2022.

Applicants must reside in Nagambie, Avenel, Mangalore, Locksley, Tabilk, Mitchellstown, Bailieston or Graytown to be eligible to apply.

For further information please contact Heathcote & District Community Bank Branch on 03 5433 3115, or visit www.heathcotenagambie. community

Community Participation opportunity in Shepparton Arts Festival As a part of the 2022 SHEPPARTON ARTS FESTIVAL The Splinters Contemporary Artists in collaboration with Shepparton Youth Council will be helping members of our community to get in touch with their Inner Creativity.

Splinter members will be conducting several Workshops around the Goulburn Valley to assist in the creation of a series of Portraits under the theme of THRIVE. These will be oil pastel on unstretched canvas approximately A3 in size and all material will be supplied at each venue.

The finished portraits will be exhibited around the Shepparton CBD during the 2 weeks of the festival, March 18th to April 3rd 2022.

“We create space for our community to thrive through connection, story-telling and art; whatever that looks like to each individual.”

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Council meeting Our next meeting of Strathbogie Shire Council will be held on Tuesday, February 15, 2022, commencing at 6pm.

The meeting will be conducted virtually to ensure Council is complying with current Victorian Government COVID-19 restrictions requiring masks to be worn indoors. The meeting will be livestreamed at www.strathbogie.vic.gov.au and we encourage community members to watch the meeting via this option.The agenda is on our Strathbogie Shire website.

COVIDSafe in the Workplace If your business experiences a positive COVID case in the workplace, information and advice is available from Case in Workplace on the Coronavirus (COVID-19) Victoria | Coronavirus Victoria Your questions regarding COVIDSafe requirements can also be answered if you email icc@ecodev.vic.gov.au or call the Business Victoria hotline on 132215.

Looking to get the jab You can book your third dose through a GP or pharmacy using the vaccine clinic finder: covid-vaccine.healthdirect.gov.au/booking/ or at a Victorian vaccination centre: www. coronavirus.vic.gov.au/vaccination-centres For more information on third doses and 11-15 year vaccinations, visit: www.coronavirus.vic.gov.au/boosters

After a Victorian Government mandate to move to a four-bin kerbside collection service by 2030, Council is seeking feedback on three possible scenarios for the rollout in mid-2025.

You can read our FAQs, view the options and vote on your preferred scenario by visiting www.share.strathbogie.vic.gov.au/four-binkerbside-service If you find internet access challenging, keep an eye out for posters in key locations around your township and phone 1800 065 993 to place your vote.

The new service will include the introduction of a monthly purple-lid glass bin collection and we want to hear from you about your preferred frequency for collection of the other coloured bins and the different cost implications associated with each scenario.

Waste Wise Workshop to be held in Nagambie Take the opportunity to find out the answers to all your burning waste questions at our Waste Wise Workshop in Nagambie next month.

Find out what items go in which bins and how to appropriately dispose of waste at the Nagambie Library on Thursday March 2, 2022 from 11am to noon. The event is a free event and bookings are not required.

You will also get the chance to view information regarding Council’s engagement on the new four-bin kerbside collection service which is being rolled out in 2025 and have your say on your preferred option.

A friendly reminder Works to begin on to expect your pet Nagambie Foreshore Walk registration renewal fee next month Council has awarded the tender for construction of the Nagambie Foreshore Walk pathway at its recent Extraordinary Council Meeting to Shepparton-based company Gradian Projects.

Work on the pathway is expected to start in March.

The $3.8 million pathway – which stretches for 1.6km along the southern edge of Lake Nagambie – will provide a safe and accessible pedestrian link between the Nagambie Regatta Centre and the Nagambie township.

Council is reminding pet owners that annual registration fees will be landing in your mailbox soon. The annual fees are due by April 10, 2022 so remember to pay your fee before the deadline.

If you have a new COVID-gained cat or dog, you are required to register them with your local Council.

Not only does your fee cover an identification tag for your pet; it also ensures your pet will be returned to you by our friendly ranger if they happen to get lost, as long as they have been microchipped as well.

The project is made possible by a $3 million Victorian Government Regional Development Victoria Grant, along with $350,000 Federal Government grant provided in May 2019, $250,000 from Strathbogie Shire Council and $200,000 provided by Nagambie businesses.

Work with us

Council launches engagement on four-bin kerbside collection

For more information, to view position descriptions and learn how to apply go to www.strathbogie.vic.gov.au and click on the jobs button.

We’re currently recruiting for the following roles; • •

Senior Environmental Health Officer Maternal and Child Care Nurse

7 | THE COMMUNITY VOICE | 16 FEBRUARY 2022 | ISSUE 493

8 | THE COMMUNITY VOICE | 16 FEBRUARY 2022 | ISSUE 493

What's On

February Nagambie NOW Festival

Nagambie NOW Festival

Nagambie NOW Festival

March 1st - 3rd - Nagambie

March 1st - 3rd - Nagambie

March 1st - 3rd - Nagambie

Celebrating the people, produce & culture of our great region on the shores of Lake Nagambie! Featuring a diverse selection of family-friendly activities, the festival invites Nagambie locals and visitors alike to participate in a variety of fun and interactive outdoor events.

Celebrating the people, produce & culture of our great region on the shores of Lake Nagambie! Featuring a diverse selection of family-friendly activities, the festival invites Nagambie locals and visitors alike to participate in a variety of fun and interactive outdoor events.

Celebrating the people, produce & culture of our great region on the shores of Lake Nagambie! Featuring a diverse selection of family-friendly activities, the festival invites Nagambie locals and visitors alike to participate in a variety of fun and interactive outdoor events.

nagambieonwater.com.au

nagambieonwater.com.au

nagambieonwater.com.au

Nagambie NOW Festival

Nagambie NOW Festival

Nagambie NOW Festival

March 1st - 3rd - Nagambie

March 1st - 3rd - Nagambie

March 1st - 3rd - Nagambie

Celebrating the people, produce & culture of our great region on the shores of Lake Nagambie! Featuring a diverse selection of family-friendly activities, the festival invites Nagambie locals and visitors alike to participate in a variety of fun and interactive outdoor events.

Celebrating the people, produce & culture of our great region on the shores of Lake Nagambie! Featuring a diverse selection of family-friendly activities, the festival invites Nagambie locals and visitors alike to participate in a variety of fun and interactive outdoor events.

Celebrating the people, produce & culture of our great region on the shores of Lake Nagambie! Featuring a diverse selection of family-friendly activities, the festival invites Nagambie locals and visitors alike to participate in a variety of fun and interactive outdoor events.

nagambieonwater.com.au

nagambieonwater.com.au

nagambieonwater.com.au

www.gonagambie.com.au

9 | THE COMMUNITY VOICE | 16 FEBRUARY 2022 | ISSUE 493

Massage Therapists Mitchelton Wines - Casual The Mitchelton Hotel is beautifully situated amongst vineyards on the banks of the Goulburn River, only minutes from Nagambie. Our luxurious and welcoming estate comprises of our iconic Ashton Tower, a boutique Hotel and Day Spa, An opportunity has become available for Massage Therapists on an ongoing full-time, part time or casual basis to work with our professional, high performing team.

To be successful in this role you will have qualifications in Massage Therapy. You will have an understanding and dedication to providing the highest level of guest service. You are also committed to a high standard of excellence and have a passion to support and nurture every client you treat.

At Mitchelton, our people are our most valuable asset and we all share a passion for the industry.

We are proud to offer you: • • • • •

Excellent conditions and pay scale 15 minute gap between clients Flexible work hours A beautiful location with great conditions and an inspiring team An opportunity to grow with the business

If you are committed to customer service and operating by the Mitchelton core values, we would love to hear from you.

To apply for this opportunity, please submit your cover letter and resume to leysa.obrien@mitchelton.com.au Applications close 28th of February, 2022

An opportunity has arisen for an engaging and friendly Front of House Staff to join our incredible team!

To be successful in this role you will pride yourself on delivering outstanding customer service.

Food and Beverage staff Reporting to the Front of House Supervisor, your responsibilities will include: • • • •

Providing friendly, efficient and professional service Delivering all aspects of service in a polished and seamless manner Attendance at large functions and events Promoting safe attitudes and work practices

If this sounds like you, and you enjoy working in a small, dedicated team and want to be part of this dynamic and growing company, we would love to hear from you.

What you will bring: • • • •

Flexibility and adaptability in both hours and working style Impeccable customer service A desire to succeed Possession of a current Victorian Responsible Service of Alcohol (RSA) certificate is essential

Applicants must be available to work flexible hours including weekdays, weekends and public holidays. This is a casual based position.

If this sounds like you, please apply directly to leysa.obrien@mitchlelton.com.au

WHEN YOU NEED US , BUT NOT THE SIRENS There’s a new way to contact the police when you don’t need the sirens - the 24/7 Police Assistance Line.

Save 131 444 to your phone for non-emergency situations. Or for online reporting go to police.vic.gov.au

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SAVE FOR NON-URGENT SITUATIONS

10 | THE COMMUNITY VOICE | 16 FEBRUARY 2022 | ISSUE 493

It Was NOW or Never in 2022!

The15th Nagambie on Water festival went off with a bang on Saturday- it was an awesome day, AND it very nearly didn't happen.

It is a huge 6 month commitment and effort from a very small band of community members to plan and execute such a day; event planning (esp with covid regulations), risk management and insurances, and the logistics that go into ensuring you have all the right equipment for all the various events. Truly, it very nearly didn't happen.

It was GoNagambie who proposed that we partner with GoFish Nagambie this year, and they were very instrumental in getting the NOW festival off the ground, liaising with GoFish Nagambie, ensuring we had a clear understanding of the expectations of this collaboration. It was a coming together that we couldn't imagine would be so cohesive.

In partnering with the team at GoFish, we shared the space and benefited from sharing their resources.

Although GoFish is a commercial entity, we want to reassure our community that NOW will remain the community festival it has always been, where our profits are shared with the various community groups that participate on the day.

Over the years, this has been both the primary schools, Nagambie HealthCare, the senior citizens, the Netball/Football club, Nagambie Golf Club, and the Lions club of Nagambie to name a few. The NOW festival is a not-for-profit event, it has never been a commercial entity, and GoFish did not

benefit financially from our co-hosting both events on the same day and in the shared space.

GoFish, however were generous enough to assist us with events planning, marketing and design, insurances, risk management and fabulous on-theday support, with a team of muscles that not only erected our marquess and moved our equipment to wherever it needed to be, they also packed everything up at the end of the day. That in itself was a huge benefit, as our very able volunteers are not getting any younger, and I feel they had the opportunity to enjoy the day a little.

GoFish benefited from the NOW festival by us encouraging our community to get together for a family fun filled day of activities, and I envisage next year will be bigger and better.

The day was fabulous and the NOW committee and volunteers were so happy it went ahead; a real community celebration with individual volunteers and those form various community groups, you know who you are and we are extremely grateful.

GoAdventure Nagambie sponsored the Stay & Play, and supplied all day activities on

the water. Included was the Climbing Rock Wall, the Car giant slide, the Bungee Run and a Giant Water Slide. For the youngsters, there was Farmer Daryl and his Petting Zoo, a favourite with the little ones. All activities were thoroughly enjoyed by the festival goers. A huge thank you goes to Lee Rowlands and his hard working team, it was a hot day.

Primary School Art was hung on the

fence line as festival goers entered the hub, it was a fabulous display of the artistic efforts of the children of both St Joseph's and Nagambie Primary

school. Unfortunately we did lose some pieces as the weather was very windy on the days leading up to Saturday, I hope not too many children were disappointed if your work was missing, there were only a few, as we retrieved many and repaired the collages a few times.

The GoNagambie Club 2 Hub swims was well supported with over 130 swimmers registered, both the 600 metre and 1.1 km swims went off without any worries thanks to GV Crocs managing this event. Swim times are published on the Fastfinish website, however the Ryan Gowty Memorial Perpetual Trophy for fastest female was won by Jacqui Stevenson, and the fastest male was presented to Cooper Edwards.

Several members of the Nagambie Senior Citizens lead the COSTA Community Canoe Challenge, it was a really exciting event against the clock. The coveted trophy was taken out by the team made up of COSTA staff & Steph Ryan and Sam Birrell of the National party.

The Kelvingrove Floating Golf ShootOut returned this year with a couple of changes, and was a huge success. No one won the $500 cash for the hole in one, however with support from both Kelvingrove Village & Beer Auto Group, Seymour there were still plenty of prizes for those that hit the green, Sean Spicer had the only shot where his ball landed on the green and stayed there.

The final event for the day saw the NOW festival move into the GoFish Festival hub. The Tahbilk Great Grape Stomp was a huge success and went well over time. Festival goers vied for a position on the stage to stomp their way to win some amazing prizes.

Pictured: Fiona Gowty, the Late Ryan Gowty’s mother, presents Cooper Edwards after being crowned the fastest male swimmer in the 1.1km open water race.

Pictured: Costa boys second place getters

Pictured: Winners of Costa canoe challenge

Tahbilk Great Grape Stomp competitors were given one minute to stomp the grapes.

The Primary School winner equal first was Mason Hotchin and Lewis Thompson crushing grapes to a volume of 1.5 ltr. The Adult section winner was Caroline crushing grapes to a volume of 1.35 ltr.

In partnering with the team at GoFish Nagambie, we are excited about the future of the NOW festival.

We hope to host it alongside GoFish in the future.

The Regatta Centre hub is a great resource, it meets all the legal requirements for crowd management, and is a safe place where our community can host festivals like the Nagambie on Water festival without the same risks as hosting in town. On the main street, the NOW festival committee would have to pay for road closures, permits and traffic management teams to ensure the festival goers risk is minimal, and it is a great cost.

I know change can be viewed as “not as good” but I ask that we give this new venue a chance, and support the NOW committee. We are all volunteers and we are passionate about giving the community the NOW Festival each year. I do believe it will be an asset and will encourage visitors to our town, and, with the commitment of having a shuttle bus in and out of town on the day, we can have something really special.

If you are new to town, or not so new, and have more time, and want to get involved, we would love to hear from you. Planning for NOW 2023 will commence around August this year. Contact Andrea on 0410 326 049 or Claire on 0412 316 630.

Wrttien By Claire Sampson - NOW Committee

11 | THE COMMUNITY VOICE | 16 FEBRUARY 2022 | ISSUE 493

GoNagambie Club2Hub openwater swim results.

600 Metre Male under 13 1st Hamish McKenzie, 2nd Alex Hawke, 3rd Nicholas Antonello Female under 13 Pictured: Senior Citz at costa canoe challenge registration

1st Isla Shaw, 2nd Meriam Nelson, 3rd Chiara Walker Male 13 to 17 1st Sam Craig, 2nd Cael Walker Female 13 to 17 1st Ella Mathlin, 2nd Reegan Hawke, 3rd Isobel Porter Male 18 and over 1st Aaron Pearce, 2nd Brett Cranswick, 3rd Jesse D'Augello Female 18 and over 1st Edwina Manks, 2nd Amanda Hotchin, 3rd Erica Trahar 1.1 Km Male Juniors

Pictured: Aaron Pearce being congratulated by his wife Desirea and daughter Ava.

1st Isaac Graig Female Juniors 1st Jo Brown, 2nd Sam Fuller (NAGAMBIE), 3rd Hanna Taylor Male Seniors (18-34yo) 1st Cooper Edwards, 2nd Harry Shortis, 3rd Matthew Sullivan Pictured: Town Crier and GV Crocs Glenn Gibson on stage at NOW Festival

Pictured: Town Crier and GV Crocs Glenn Gibson on stage at NOW Festival

Female Seniors (18-34yo) 1st Jacqui Stevenson, 2nd Evie Crawford,

1st Evie Crawford, 2nd Ingrid Fraser, 3rd Zoe Deed 3rd Ingrid Fraser Male Masters (35-54yo) 1st Kipp Kaufmann, 2nd Troy Bauerle, 3rd Dean Williams

Text

Female Masters (35-54yo) 1st Liliana Angeles, 2nd Heidi Edmiston, 3rd Amy Wilson Male Veterans 55+ yo 1st Greg Chaplin, 2nd Stephen Orr, 3rd John Hurley (NAGAMBIE) Female Veterans 55+yo 1st Bronwyn Morris, 2nd Wendy Kingma, 3rd Alison Keogh Overall male winner The Ryan Gowty Trophy

Pictured: Aaron and fellow competitor on stage receiving their medallions

Cooper Edwards (SENIOR MALE) Overall female winner The Ryan Gowty Trophy

Evie Crawford (SENIOR FEMALE)FEMALE) Jacqui Stevenson (SENIOR

12 | THE COMMUNITY VOICE | 16 FEBRUARY 2022 | ISSUE 493

Councillor Reg Dickinson Update With Christmas now behind us and already into a new year I thought it timely to reflect on a few of the area’s council have covered over the past twelve months.To quote our new mayor, Laura Binks, “Twenty twenty-one has definitely been a year like no other.”

We completed a nine-month community engagement program calling for our community to share its thoughts, feedback, and advice to develop a Community Vision, Council Plan and Financial Plan.

This included the first ever Strathbogie Shire Community Panel. It was the first time Council used deliberative engagement methods to guide our future planning.

We provided Go Nagambie and Euroa Chamber of Business and Commerce with $30,000 each to help businesses recover. The Euroa Off-Leash Dog Park was opened.

Eighty-four percent of the capital works program were delivered for the 2020/21 year, which equated to eighty-one capital works.

Nagambie’s $500,000 Active Youth Hub was delivered.

Previous Mayor Cr Chris Raeburn met with Federal Treasurer Josh Frydenberg to outline connectivity issues in our region.

People doing great things in our community were recognised in the Australia Day Awards.

We became the 100th Council in Australia to declare a Climate Emergency and just the third to pass this Notice of Motion unanimously.

Council’s innovative Pitch My Project program saw the inclusion of ten community projects.

The Kirwans Bridge Community Panel was established to work with Council to decide the future of the historic bridge.

We appealed to the Joint Standing committee enquiry into the National Broadband Network to consult and collaborate with our region. Our calls were heard, and eight sessions were held in our Shire to discuss how service could be improved.

We were awarded a three-million-dollar grant to complete the Nagambie Foreshore Walk. We were one of forty-six Victorian Councils to sign on to the Victorian Energy Collaboration, the largest ever emissions reduction project by Local Government in Australia.

Solar panels were installed on the Graytown community Hub at a cost of $23,000.

We signed a MoU with the Taungurung Land and Waters Council to strengthen our relationship with first peoples and to protect the region’s important cultural heritage.

We engaged with our community to deliver our 2021 Road Management Plan.

Avenel’s new tennis club upgrades and exercise equipment were opened. New township Youth Crews were developed.

A new Rural Outreach Worker was appointed.

A four-year Council Plan was adopted.

A new Arts and Culture Officer was appointed.

Resale shops at one or more of our Resource Recovery Centres is being explored.

A new Domestic Animal Management Plan was adopted after consultation with the community.

We launched a new eNews that’s released monthly, keeping our community informed.

Two complimentary sessions of Happy Sad Man were screened at the Euroa Community Centre.

Jim Stynes’ Reach Foundation visited Euroa Secondary College thanks to our Community and Social Isolation Initiative.

A podcast series was developed showcasing wine and food in our spectacular region. Seventeen grants were awarded as part of our 2021-22 Community Grants Program.

We kicked off engagement with businesses to develop an economic Development Strategy for the next five years.We achieved our highest rating ever in our community Satisfaction Survey.

Not everything has been listed however it does give you some idea of what Council is doing for the community.

Moving along, I have recommenced my “Meet and Greet” sessions at The Valley each Thursday, from 10.00am until 12.00 noon, so come along and have a chat and meet our newest Councillor, David Andrews (Remember Digging with Dave?

That’s him).

The Kennedy's Celebrate 60 Years of Marriage

Celebrating Sixty years of marriage on 10 February was Nagambie’s Helen and Dan Kennedy. They are pictured with family and friends at their lunch party in their beautiful gardens.

Nagambie’s Helen and Dan Kennedy celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary on Saturday, 5 February in their magnificent gardens on their “Roscrea” property they run as a Bed and Breakfast.

Their gardens are one of Nagambie’s best kept secrets and they are well worth a visit. It is a wonderful setting for the Kennedy’s in their quieter semi-retirement years.

afternoon then high tailing it to Warragul to court Helen.”

The couple are both very involved with St Malachy’s Catholic Church parish in Nagambie.

But he did it and following this courtship the couple were married on 10 Feb 1962 at St Joseph’s Catholic Church in Warragul by Father Noel Daly who later became a Bishop of the Sandhurst Diocese that covers Nagambie.

Dan was a Lions Club member in the first Nagambie Club after moving here from Cobram and he has enjoyed his game of golf on the Nagambie course and helps with the grounds maintenance there. You can sometimes see him driving his golf buggy home from the course.

He was also an ex-chairman of the Beef and Burgundy Club.

The couple lived in Muckatah on a dairy farm for over 20 years and were blessed with six children.

Who were all born in Cobram hospital. Laurie in 1963, Tony 1964, Philip 1966, Jacqui 1968, Louise 1970 and Anna in 1979.

Their large gardens take a lot of care and managing but both the Kennedy’s love looking after their beautiful botanical style gardens and have had them featured in the Open Gardens scheme for some years. They host lovely garden weddings in their grounds and guests enjoy the elegant accommodation provided in the Kennedy’s 1890’s Victorian old style residence.

In 1985 the Kennedy’s bought the Toyworld business in Seymour. The three boys had left school, and Jacqui was at Presentation College in Windsor in Melbourne.

Four of their children had been educated from their Muckatah home and when their parents moved to Nagambie Louise went to school in Seymour at St Mary’s and Anna at St Joseph’s in Nagambie.

The couple’s son Laurie was able to travel to Australia from England for his parent’s special day and other members of their family were able to celebrate with them for their special Diamond wedding anniversary.

Short History Dan Kennedy was born in Cobram in 1935 and he lived with his family on their “Kentucky” Muckatah farm and he attended Muckatah State School and followed on secondary schooling as a boarder at Assumption College at Kilmore.

Helen Keating was born in 1939 and lived with her family in Warragul in Gippsland. She attended Cloverlea State School in Warragul then went to Sion Catholic Convent. After school she helped out on the family farm.

When Helen was around 18 she visited her aunty – Mrs Parnell in Cobram and she met a young man Dan Kennedy whose family lived next door to the Parnell’s.

A long distance relationship then began and Dan Kennedy said “It was very hard playing a game of footy for the Cobram team on a Saturday

Dad replied “Being able to say sorry and patching things up.” Helen said “saying I love you every day and believing it, meaning it, thus reinforcing it.”

Their children and partners blessed the Kennedy’s with 18 grand children and some of them were able to attend the couple’s celebration lunch last Saturday in their beautiful gardens.

The Kennedy’s retired from the Toyworld business in 2000 and they then set up their Roscrea Bed and Breakfast business in High Street, Nagambie as the Olympic Rowing course had been made on Lake Nagambie and accommodation for rowing regatta participants and families became paramount. They are still providing excellent bed and breakfast facilities to guests who would like something different to a motel or caravan park.

The Kennedy’s affection and contentment with one another is second nature to them both and they acknowledge the closeness of their family with them as a major asset to their marriage.

Helen loves being able to see and hear all about her family via phone technology – especially during the Covid 19 pandemic. Their son Laurie calls them from England every Sunday for a chat and catch up.

The couple have travelled to Europe and the United Kingdom to see their son Laurie and his family and one granddaughters wedding in London three years ago followed by a week in Corfu . They undertook a river cruise down the Danube from Budapest to Amsterdam and enjoyed their visit to Guernsey, Paris and Rome.

The Nagambie couple would like to thank all who sent them anniversary wishes and all those who shared their special celebration with them.

Be water wise.

Must recirculate water

When asked what they felt made a good, long marriage- any tips for our readers to their success?

Other tips were showing respect, and keeping in touch with your family. Teaching them values, and principles, having a faith, learning and using good manners, eating at the table with the television off, learning good values and loving one another.

Every drop counts.

FOUNTAINS AND WATER FEATURES

Helen has been on the Hospital auxiliary for many years and is a volunteer at the Information Centre and she enjoys being involved with her church activities.

VEHICLES CAN BE CLEANED ANY TIME USING A BUCKET Or with a leak-free handheld hose with a trigger nozzle

Congratulations Helen and Dan from your community on reaching this milestone in your lives, your Diamond wedding anniversary.

It’s everyone’s responsibility to use water wisely.

Together, we can save a lot.

Always follow the Permanent Water Saving Rules, they’re designed to help you save water every day.

SPRINKLERS AND WATERING SYSTEMS Can only be used between 6pm and 10am

USE A BROOM OR A BLOWER TO CLEAN HARD SURFACES Like pathways, decks, concrete or driveways

LEAK FREE HOSES CAN BE USED AT ANY TIME But they must be fitted with a trigger nozzle

For more tips to save drips, visit: gvwater.vic.gov.au/every-drop-counts

13 | THE COMMUNITY VOICE | 16 FEBRUARY 2022 | ISSUE 493

Carpenters, Subcontractors, Apprentices Gervale Homes - Full time Gervale Homes build quality manufactured homes, we are thrilled to be opening up a new factory site in the beautiful lakeside town of Nagambie.

CARAVAN OF THE YEAR

SHOWCASE

PRESENTED BY

COME AND SEE THE LATEST VANS ON DISPLAY

Our first project is the construction of 145 homes for the new lifestyle village Waterways Nagambie.

The first of these homes are already under construction and we are seeking highly motivated and skilled people to join our team.

We have an exciting opportunity for a Subcontractor Carpenter and an Apprentice Carpenter to join the team. Do you have an eye for detail and thrive on producing quality work?

Are you looking for a role where you can use your skill-set in a new exciting local company?

MITCHELTON WINERY 470 MITCHELLSTOWN RD, NAGAMBIE VIC 3608 20TH FEB, 2-3PM

We are looking for the following: SUBCONTRACTOR CARPENTER • • • • •

The ideal candidate must require the following skills: Trade background essential in carpentry and building Own vehicle, tools, excellent ability to read and interpret plans Good variety of carpentry including: domestic, frame Lock Ip and Fix Must be enthusiastic, well presented and reliable

APPRENTICE CARPENTER • • • • • • • • •

Gervale Homes are seeking to employ an enthusiastic 1st or 2nd year apprentice carpenter to join our team and secure a future in the building trade.

As an apprentice carpenter you will learn and perform constructing wall frames, ceiling frames, pitched roofs, eaves, external stairs, flooring systems, install windows and doors.

Suitable applicants will need to meet the following criteria: Drivers licence and own vehicle upon beginning of apprenticeship or ability to travel to Nagambie work site Possess strong problem solving and mathematical skills Good communication skills Attention to detail is essential Ability to work safely and follow instructions carefully Submit a resume with a cover note explaining why YOU are the best candidate for this particular role

To apply for this opportunity, please submit your cover letter and resume to leysa.obrien@mitchelton.com.au

Vineyard Assistant Mitchelton Wines - Full time Mitchelton Wines vision is to be one of the great Australian wine success stories. Located minutes from Nagambie in the beautiful Goulburn Valley and overlooking the river, Mitchelton will offer you an enviable workplace and lifestyle. At Mitchelton, our people are our most valuable asset and we all share a passion for the winemaking industry.

We are currently looking for a Full Time Vineyard Assistant to join the team.

This position is a hands-on role focusing on vineyard operations, maintenance and operational logistics on a day to day basis across 350 acres and 3 sites. Reporting directly to the Vineyard Manager.

The Role As a vital member of the vineyard team your responsibilities will include: • • • • • • • •

Assist with best practice approach to vineyard operations and vine maintenance Assist with the coordination of maintenance of all vineyard and associated plant and equipment Assist with the coordination of the movement of plant and machinery between all vineyard sites General vineyard maintenance including but limited to, mid row and under vine maintenance, irrigation and other vineyard infrastructure maintenance Operate vineyard machinery Assistance with annual pruning, foliage management and harvest Participate in workplace consultation as required to ensure best practice compliance Participate and assist in implementing a culture of safety in the vineyard

All About You • • • • • • • • •

Ideally you will have experience in the agriculture, grape growing and wine industry A current driver’s license is a requirement. Forklift license and a heavy rigid truck license will be advantageous Strong mechanical knowledge is highly regarded You will have experience in a wide variety of tasks in and around a vineyard including machinery operation Chemical User Permit or willingness to complete You are self-motivated, enthusiastic and reliable with excellent organisation and communication skills You are hardworking, proactive and work well in a small team environment You have the ability to work autonomously at times.

You have a passion for the wine industry

If you are a driven and enthusiastic individual, who has a passion for wine and providing an exceptional product, please submit your cover letter and resume to leysa.obrien@mitchelton.com.au Applications close 28th of February, 2022

14 | THE COMMUNITY VOICE | 16 FEBRUARY 2022 | ISSUE 493

Rural and Regional Enterprise Scholarships program

Project EDGE

More than 1000 eligible students from regional and remote Australia will have access to a scholarship worth up to $18,000 to support their tertiary education in 2022.

Putting your energy to work for you, the community and the environment.

Federal Member for Nicholls, Damian Drum, said applications for round six of the Rural and Regional Enterprise Scholarships program were now open.

For more information please visit mondo.com.au/edge

An opportunity to rewrite Australia’s energy future A clean local energy transformation is rolling out across the Strathbogie Shire this month with township launches of ‘Project EDGE.’ Communities are extending the ambitious efforts of the Euroa microgrid and the Councils Bogie Bulk Buy. With events set to occur in Avenel on the 22nd of February and Nagambie on the 23rd, home and business owners will learn of renewable options to save money, reduce carbon emissions and address power supply reliability across the Shire.

Towns across the Hume region are jumping on board with a program titled Project EDGE, which is a federally funded ARENA (Australian Renewable Energy Agency) program to switchup our electricity supply to be a more reliable, dynamic and two-way system, based on renewable energy.

With project partners, the Australian Energy Market Operator, AusNet Services and Mondo, the community program will help subsidise batteries into homes and businesses. Not only will these batteries serve the 16-month trial, but they will also provide back-up power supplies and save money for the owners.

Euroa has led the way in these innovations with the creation of the Euroa Business Microgrid and EDGE will extend the learning across the whole region. Homeowners and commercial properties in Euroa are able sign up by visiting the website listed below. Mondo has played a pivotal technical role in Euroa and other towns in the Hume region, notably including award winning renewable town Yackandandah.

Sissy Hoskin, Executive Officer of Go Nagambie encourages residents and businesses to join the information session and the earlier pop-up information tent at Jacobsons Outlook, to gain a greater understanding of the opportunity that presents.

“Renewable energy provides an exciting opportunity to build a more reliable and resilient energy system. Project Edge is a significant opportunity to build a progressively stronger electricity supply and save residents and businesses money.”

Jim Billings, Avenel resident and Chair of Avenel Pilot Program Renewable Energy (APPRE) is excited to introduce this innovation to the town.

“We are thrilled to bring this program to people across the Avenel area, and offer a winning

combination of lower bills, back-up power and more reliable power in the long-term. Better bills, better power.”

Mondo is providing the key interface for both Avenel and Nagambie participation in EDGE – connecting local businesses and residents with a nation leading ‘Virtual Power Plant’ trial. Mondo General Services Manager Jodie Hallam speaks with great passion about what can be achieved when energy industry partners work closely with local communities. “Mondo is thrilled to offer Project EDGE across the Hume region. It is amazing to facilitate a future oriented energy system, based on renewable electricity and bringing great local savings, strengthened reliability and the reduction of carbon emissions.”

People wishing to learn more or register their interest in the presentations can learn more at www.mondo.com.au/edge. The Avenel Bowling Club will host the event in Avenel on the 22nd of February at 7:00pm. The following evening, Nagambie residents and business can learn more at the Nagambie Rowing Club, 23rd of February, 6:30pm. Check the Mondo page for guidance on the information session pop ups also on the 23rd of February.

“These scholarships are a fantastic opportunity for students from regional and remote communities, including those across Nicholls, to access financial support to support further study such as a university qualification,” Mr Drum said.

“I encourage all students in Nicholls to check their eligibility and if eligible, to apply for an RRES scholarship.”

Mr Drum said the RRES program was in addition to the Federal Government’s Commonwealth Scholarships Program for Young Australians, which provides scholarships worth up to $13,000 to cover the costs of an eligible vocational education and training qualification, and internship.The Goulburn Valley is one of 10 regions selected nationally for that program.

Minister for Regionalisation, Regional Communications and Regional Education, Bridget McKenzie, said the RRES scholarships support students to undertake courses from Certificate IV to PhD level.

“Since 2018, these scholarships have helped support more than 4000 regional and remote students pursue a tertiary education,” Senator McKenzie said.

“I have heard from scholarship recipients that the application process is easy and the money has helped them undertake a tertiary education they might otherwise have not been able to afford.

“The Federal Government is committed to reducing the disparity between rural and regional students and their city counterparts, and these scholarships help deliver on that promise.”

The Federal Government has invested $62.6 million in the RRES program since 2017.

For more information and to apply, visit qtac.edu.au

Veteran's Group encouraged to apply for funding Local veteran’s groups have been encouraged to apply for funding under a new Morrison Liberal Government grant program.

Liberal for Nicholls, Steve Brooks, said the program which was announced today will provide $27 million in funding towards programs supporting the wellbeing of current and former ADF personnel.

“In communities like ours with deep connections to the Defence Force, this kind of funding is especially welcome”, Mr Brooks said.

St Joeseph's Primary

“We are lucky to have large veteran communities in towns like Seymour, Broadford and Shepparton, which will benefit from programs which target improvements to mental and physical health and aim to make the transition from military to civilian life easier.”

“We owe the freedoms we enjoy today to our veterans, we should not hesitate to provide every support to those who responded to their country’s call, or who continue to serve today,” The program is aimed at finding new and innovative ways to assist local veterans, with individual grants being offered of up to $1.5 million. There is also scope for the program to fund more targeted, grassroots projects.

Applications for the new Veterans Wellbeing Grants will be open to all community organisations at the beginning of March.

“I encourage all local Nicholls organisations who are committed to improving veterans’ wellbeing in their local communities to apply for this funding.”

Grade 6 Class of 2022 L-R front row: James, Ayla, Liam, Walter, Oliver Back row: Gen Stewart (teacher) Ruby, Maree Findlay (principal) Abdullah, Xavier, Chase absent Maddy Blackwood (teacher), Brock, Riley

New Foundation/Prep students and new year 4 student.

L -R: Maree Findlay (new principal) Ruby, Scout, Delilah, Maysie (new Foundation students), Mel Kecskes (new art teacher). standing at back Casey (new Yr 4 student)

More information about the Veteran Wellbeing Grants program will be released on the Community Grants Hub website when applications open. (www.communitygrants.gov. au).

15 | THE COMMUNITY VOICE | 16 FEBRUARY 2022 | ISSUE 493

St Joeseph's Primary

Avenel Primary House swimming carnival

Amazing Start!

At Monday’s assembly, our student leaders were announced for 2022. Congratulations to our school captains, house captains and Junior School Councillors for the year. We welcomed Avenel Citizen of the Year Jim Billings to the assembly and he spoke about being a leader.

We have had such a fantastic start to the school year! We welcome the amazing Miss Maree to our school as our new principal. She has already made some fantastic changes to the school, and has fit seamlessly into our St Joseph’s community.

Jim talked about having a passion for what you do and he certainly has plenty of passion! The student leaders and their parents joined us for a lovely morning tea after the assembly as they excitedly discussed their role for the year.

We congratulate our school leaders and wish them well for the coming year.

School captains: Lilli Fowles and Will Lynch.

Vice captains: Ned Butler and Mac Malone.

It has been a fantastic start to the new school year with everyone bringing along their energy and enthusiasm. We welcome 25 new preps to the school and new staff members Sarah Cooke, Alesha Currie and Natasha Brown.

On Wednesday grades 1-6 participated in the annual swimming sports and oh what fun and excitement was had by all. We lucked out with a nice warm day and the pool was sparkling with both fun and healthy competition.

We welcome Karen and Mel to the school as our new P.E & Art teachers. The kids are absolutely loving their fun, and engaging lessons!

We hosted an information night on Thursday night to welcome the parents into our classrooms and to check out the fantastic work our students have been doing.

We are getting really excited for the upcoming celebration of St Joseph’s centenary on Friday the 11th to Sunday 13th of March. To celebrate the students have been taking a glimpse into what life was like 100 years ago. We can't wait to showcase all the ideas they have come up with during our celebration.

So Why Don't You Come and See Us We are very active on our Facebook account, so please follow our page “St Joseph’s Nagambie” for updates!

Nagambie Primary

Nagambie PRIMARY SCHOOL

House swimming carnival We had a wonderful day at our House swimming carnival last week. We certainly achieved our goals of having fun, being active, enjoying each other’s company and competing with a positive spirit.

The Murchison pool was a great venue, with lots of shade, plenty of green grass, a very clean pool and the fabulous waterslide.

Congratulations to Goulburn House for

taking out the shield. Congratulations to our ‘Age Group Champions’ Poppy & Darby (8/9 years), Amelia & Hudson (10), Leyla & Tom (11) and Jazarah & Campbell (12). All students who competed proudly came home with their certificate and ribbons.

Congratulations to the 21 students selected to represent us at the Euroa District swimming carnival and to the parent team who beat the staff and students in the final relay.

Nagambie Primary school prep pic for 2022. Back row. Education support Melissa Clydesdale, Teacher_ Kylie Elson, Education support Danielle Auld and Principal Rob French.

School leaders: Principal Rob French, Zuri (Vice Captain), Abbey (Captain), Jazarah (Vice Captain), Campbell (Captain), and Xavier (Vice Captain)

House Leaders: Lilly (Mitchell) and Amber _ Holly (Goulburn, who won the shield this year).

House Captains: Principal Rob French, Jasmine (Goulburn), Vanessa (Mitchell), Lilly (Mitchell) and Holly Age Group Champions : Amelia, Hudson, Tom, Darby, Campbell, Poppy, Jazarah _ Leyla.

(Mitchell). Absent_ Amber (Goulburn)absent in pic.

16 | THE COMMUNITY VOICE | 16 FEBRUARY 2022 | ISSUE 493

Business Directory FLORIST

ELECTRICAL

TRADE

DENTAL

• Building Design & Documentation • Town Planning Applications • Structural Design • Residential & Commercial • 3D Modelling

NAGAMBIE DENTAL SURGERY

Call Shane - 0438 415 545 E: shane@cba.net.au

Emergency dental vouchers are accepted. Medicare child dental benefit vouchers are 100% bulk billed. Senior citizen special 10% discount. New patients welcome.

OPEN: Wed, Thur, Fri 9:00am to 5:00pm 346 High St, Nagambie

Vision Thru Design

03 5794 2643 CONCRETING

CARPET CLEANER

PAVING, DRIVEWAYS AND OUTDOOR CONCRETING

INDOOR AND OUTDOOR BENCHTOPS

FOUNDATIONS AND FLOORING APPLICATIONS

FOR ALL YOUR CONCRETING SOLUTIONS

0438 078 917

● Carpet Dry Clean ● Upholstry ● Drapes ● Car interiors ● 24hr Flood restoration

JORDAN SHIELS

Specialising in Dry Cleaning and Stain Removal

Martin Raby (formerly Drytron) 30 years experience

martin@cvcarpetcare.com.au

Find us on Facebook

OUTDOOR SERVICES

jordan_shiels@live.com.au

SERVICING • Fridges • Freezers • Washing Machines • Clothes Dryers • Diswashers Now servicing your area.

Onsite Service.

Phone Brad 0448 737 247 (0448 Repair)

Painting Services

• Industrial &

• Industrial Domestic&Painting

Call Jim for your lawn maintenance

131546

Painting • Domestic Interior Exterior •• IRoof nterior Exterior Painting Painting ••• Roof Interior Consultant Interior Consultant •• Mitchell MitchellShire ShireArea Area

17 | THE COMMUNITY VOICE | 16 FEBRUARY 2022 | ISSUE 493

Business Directory PAINTING SERVICES

SERVICES

SERVICES

PAINTER John Paxton Painting + Maintenance • Local painter • Fully insured • 30 years experience

0490 894 318 AB N - 279 00 6 25 975

TOTAL PACKAGE

CONCRETE

Earthworks, Landscape & Quarry products

Local Agents for:

Complete Burial Package

$5200

This includes: • Our service fee • Funeral Notice • Mortuary care • Fresh Flowers • Rosewood flat lid coffin • Memorial Book • Clergy or Celebrant • GST

Doug and Diane Proud (03) 5794 1520

33-35 Industrial Cres Nagambie Suppliers of concrete for all your needs - building and construction, farming and the home handyman FOR A QUOTE - RING RON Phone: 5794 2969 Mobile: 0434 336 167 DELIVERING TO NAGAMBIE, AVENEL, MURCHISON, RUSHWORTH, LONGWOOD & SURROUNDING AREAS

TRADE + SERVICES

We can supply all of your quarry products Specialising in: washed natural river pebbles, concrete, plaster and propaga�ng sands, Seymour toppings, crushed rock and topsoil.

Grader, roller, excavators, loaders and �ppers for your earthwork needs.

If you can’t contact Doug or Di Please contact Garnet on 5799 2007 82 Anzac Avenue, Seymour VIC 3660 Ph: 03 5799 2007 All Hours

Pick up or delivery available. Come and see our range

GVR Quarry & Earthworks

Gianarelli & Sons family owned and operated for over 50 years years.

5 Selectors Road, Seymour (Cnr Hume & GV Highways) Email: gvrquarry@bigpond.com

Call us today 5792 4332

T.O.W.N. MEETS AT NEW TIME T.O.W.N (Take Off Weight Naturally) you can receive support to lose weight and achieve a healthy goal weight. Our low cost and friendly club will help and encourage you as you take the steps needed to make changes in your lifestyle, to eat sensibly, to exercise and attain and maintain your personal goal weight.

We meet at the new time of 1.00 each Wednesday RSL Club 340 High St Nagambie.

Time to clean out your backyard and sheds? 2 metre & 4 metre skips available

Prompt delivery and pick-up

Services to Nagambie, Avenel and Seymour area

Phone GARY for a free quote on 0429 951 330 Book early to avoid disappointment

18 | THE COMMUNITY VOICE | 16 FEBRUARY 2022 | ISSUE 493

Business Directory LEGAL/CONVEYANCING

LOCAL PHARMACY

304 High Street Nagambie VIC 3608

(03) 5794 2590

‘Caring for your Local Community’ • NDSS agent (diabetes supplies) • Blood Pressure testing • Natio, Sukin & Moo Goo skincare and cosmetics • Webster Pak Services • Free local delivery • 10% seniors discount for over the counter items • Dr. Tim’s weight loss program & support

MON - FRI 9:00am - 5:30pm SAT 9:00am -12:00pm

Keep your family comfortable We offer servicing, installation and sales • Air Conditioning Split Systems • Reverse Cycle Ducted Heating and Cooling • Commercial Refrigeration

Call us today 0457 923 436

9-steps to buying a home Get our FREE guide to get you started.

Go to: bit.ly/TBALawBuyingHome Phone: Email: Website:

(03) 5794 2334 admin@tbalaw.com.au www.tbalaw.com.au

Quality service from your local refrigeration & air conditioning specialist mcfrefrigeration@bigpond.com • 0457 923 436 ARC Handling L021036

Authorised Mitsubishi Electric & Fujitsu Service Agent

ECUMENICAL CHURCH: February 17. International World day of Prayer planning meeting. At 16 Boyd St. Home.

2pm. Details Ruth Close.

March 1. Shrove Tuesday, Pancake day. St John’s is hosting a Pancake tea from 5pm at Buckley Park.

Members of local churches invited to attend. Bring your own chair. Fillings for pancakes. Marg Hurren will do the batters and for other details call her on 5794 2362. If bad weather it will be in St John’s church hall.

NOTICE OF SPECIAL GENERAL MEETING 6:00PM WEDNESDAY 16TH FEBRUARY 2022 AT THE NAGAMBIE RECREATION RESERVE

March 2. Ash Wednesday. Start of Lent.

An ecumenical Lenten discussion group has been organised by the Catholic Church folk. Starting on Thursday 3rd March. Six weeks of one hour sessions from 11:00am. Nagambie information from Sally Fyfield and Fr Tony Hill for other centres.

March 4. Friday. International World Day of Prayer.

St Malachy’s Catholic Church. Nagambie.

ANGLICAN CHURCH: February 24. Anglican Mother’s Union Meeting. Christ Church Seymour. 1.30pm Church Service details Rev. Richard Pennington.

0477 921 111.

CATHOLIC CHURCH: St Malachy’s Nagambie: Rosary and Mass details. Fr Tony Hill. Parish Priest: 0439 033 029 or Nagambie contact. 0400 476 416 UNITING CHURCH: Avenel and Nagambie and Seymour service times contact Rev. John Payne. 0408 176 754.

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH: Nagambie and Seymour and Yea services. Bill Day. 57 94 2070 or 0429 933 116

Due to the lack of attendance at the Tabilk Junior Football Netball Club Inc. Annual General Meeting held on Wednesday 9th February 2022 the office bearer elections could not be held.

The following motions were moved by President Hamish Fletcher and seconded by Vice President Amanda McClaren and voted unanimously: Motion 1: That a Special General Meeting be held at 6:00pm Wednesday 16th February 2022 at Nagambie Recreation Reserve to elect office bearers for the 2022 Season.

Motion 2: That, according to the Tabilk Junior Football Netball Club Inc. Constitution adopted in January 2002, section 21(1) The officers of the association shall be a) a President; b) two Vice-President; c) a Treasurer; and d) a Secretary And, in the case where these positions cannot be filled at the Special General Meeting then Tabilk Junior Football Netball Club Inc. will not field any Football or Netball teams for the 2022 season and will undergo a rebuilding phase post the Covid pandemic.

If you want your children to play junior football or netball in 2022 then it is time to get involved in the club before it is too late.

19 | THE COMMUNITY VOICE | 16 FEBRUARY 2022 | ISSUE 493

Nagambie Men’s Golf News - Feb 13th Tim Baldwin showed pennant form translates into local golf winning form with 42 stableford points taking out the Sunday event, big bomb driving and precision iron play were on display for most of his day. The field consisted of 29 men and 2 women hitting off in pleasant and favourable weather conditions although the Nagambie wind was present throughout the round the course was still offering plenty of run for high handicappers to take advantage of. Driving his hotted up convertible golf cart was Terry Wallis finishing second with 41 point total, a winning score for most weeks of the year, top three went to Jeremy Ezard shooting 38 points.

The nearest the pin prizes went to Irene Keogh blazing one to the 3rd, Karen Thompson putting it close for the girls on the 8th , Barry "Bageye' Cryer with his eye in also on the 8th and Peter Lawrence zeroing in on the 16th .

Next week's golf will see a change to the printed Syllabus, with the Gary Bow sponsored Foursome being moved forward to this coming week, a partner is required and the event is open to both men and women golfers, on office duty will be D. Love and in the bar H. Lawrence.

The Nagambie golf club would like to offer its sincerest condolences with the passing of Life member Bruce Forbes aged 96,, Bruce's generosity was integral to the club securing and operating at its current location.

Nagambie Men’s Golf News February 7th February

It was a game of Stableford and a Competition for the Monthly Medal. In windy but milder heat conditions, 11 ladies played on. The winner of the Monthly Medal and the competition was Jane Bow with an impressive 40pts.

Division 5 had a walkover from Euroa. Their next game is against Violet Town at home.

9 Hole Winner on the back 9, was also Jane with 21 pts on a C/B from Cathy Lawrence. 18 Hole balls went to Jane, Cathy 35 and Irene Keogh 34 pts.9 Hole balls went to Jane, Cathy 21 and Maureen King 20 pts on a C/B from Karyn Thompson.N/P on the 16th was Annette Mills.Next Wednesday should be Par and a Competition for another Monthly Medal.

Thursday 3rd February Chicken Run Results.

Division 3 had an away game against Shepparton Park and the home team were the better team by far beating Avenel 16 – 126 to 2 -76.

21 players played a game of Stroke on the front 9. The Winner was Joe Labas with 45-34.5 net. The runner up was John Bond with 46-35 net.

There was no N/P winners.

The Nagambie Golf club would like to pass on their condolences to Sandra , Mark and family on the passing of Sandra's father Bruce Forbes, who was a life member of the Golf Club.

Bruce was not only a long time member but also was an instigator of improvements to the golf club and course.

Avenel Bowls Midweek Pennant

Weekend Pennant

Ruth King, Rob Kemp, Pam Pedder, Spud Furletti (s) were the only winning rink for Avenel beating their opponents 31 – 22. Kick starting the game with a convincing 15 – 0 start after the first seven ends, they had their opponents in chase mode all day. A great team effort followed to hold the Parkers at arm’s length and ensure a convincing win by Avenel.

Donna Rowley, Jenny Furletti, Geoff Hateley, Noel Slater (s) drew even on the eighth end, then lost the next five ends to fall behind by nine shots. They then won the next five ends for the scores to be even again.

On end 24, they were only two shots down, however Shepparton Park scored a three on the last end to win the game by five, 19 – 24.

Fay Hateley, Grace Kenworthy, Howard Geldard, Josh McDonald (s) won nine ends in the first half and went into the break with a handy seven shot lead. Winning only two ends after the break saw Shepparton Park re-group to take the lead on end 20 and accelerate to a fifteen shot win, 20 – 35.

James Wall, Kate Donovan, Jake Wall, Brett McDonald (s) were simply out bowled and lost 6 – 45 against a strong, very skilled and focused Shepparton Park rink.

The 2021 gold medallist Ryan Ezard qualifies for the 2022 Gold medal playoff by winning the February monthly medal with a 91-20-71. Ryans game continues to develop with his handicap on the way down this win should sound a warning to competitors for the coming club championships scheduled for April where Ryan looks to be a real threat for the B grade title. Runner up continuing his stellar form throughout the Summer is Jeff 'Joffa Mills being beaten on countback firing 87-16-71 if only he could concentrate and perform for all 18 holes, third place was filled by Dave Fullager knocking out a handy 93-21-72.

A memorable win for Avenel division 2 in GMBR midweek pennant round 11 with two from three winning rinks against top four placed Shepparton Park, reversing a nineteen shot loss in round 4 to an 18 shot win, 14 – 71 to 2 – 53.

The next game for division 3 is at home against Seymour.

Ruth King, Kate Donovan, Jenny Furletti, Geoff Hateley (s) were never threatened, winning nineteen ends with a final score of 30 – 10. Lead, Ruth King set up each winning end with perfectly placed bowls and skip Geoff Hateley, bowling with precise accuracy, added to the count to ensure the win was never in jeopardy.

Avenel Bowling Club is running a barefoot bowls program in March. It will run over four Friday nights 4/11/18/25 March starting at 6.30pm till 8pm. All ages and abilities will be catered for including Jack attack for the kids. Bowls will be supplied just wear flat soled shoes or go barefoot. The bar will be open and a light snack served in the clubhouse after the bowls session.

The nearest the pin prizes went to Hugh Lawrence hoisting it onto the 3rd,, Jeremy Ezard having a good day claiming the 8th & 13th, and Terry Lowis as is so often the case attacking the 16th. The pennant team were away at Kyabram Valley View golf course taking on Tatura HillTop the team won 3 1/2 to 1 1/2 making it 2 wins from 3 starts, but this was not enough to make the final playoffs with the Nagambie team missing out due to inferior game scores, bad luck team always next year. Next week's golf will be a stableford event with S. Bryant on office duty and T. Baldwin in the bar.

Fay Hateley, Nyoli Bell, Grace Kenworthy, Noel Slater (s) had a much closer game. Coming from nine down they bowled themselves back into the game taking the lead on end 17. They held onto a slender lead until Shepparton Park drew even on end 22. Winning the last three ends 5 – 0 sealed a hard fought win for Avenel, 21 – 16.

The annual Avenel bowls tournament will be held on Sunday 20 March. The format is Open 2 bowl triples.

To book a rink or make an enquiry phone tournament directors Howard Geldard (m) 0403 346 653 or Noel Slater (m) 0447 833 898.

Nagambie Womens Golf news Wednesday 2nd February

The next match for division 2 is an away game against Tatura Hill Top.

Tabilk Junior Football Netball Club celebrates 20 years with a call for volunteers

McClaren and carried unanimously:

Are we too busy for our kids...? Are we prepared to say goodbye to 20 years of community spirit and sportsmanship through the lack of rolling up our sleeves and getting involved?

The Tabilk Junior Football Netball Club is facing its most significant challenge in the season of 2022 as not enough parents came forward to put up their hands and support the Tabilk Junior Football and Netball Club at the Annual General Meeting.

As Hamish Fletcher, 2021 Club President explains.

“The club has held strong community support and family values over the past 20 years serving the youth of both Avenel and Nagambie townships. It is disappointing for the club to be facing these challenges after a difficult couple of years with the Covid Pandemic” “A number of our current committee office bearers are wanting to step down as they no longer have children playing at the club opening up an opportunity for new members to step up.”

Vice President, Amanda McClaren encourages any parent wanting their children to play junior football or netball with Tabilk Junior Football Netball Club to come to the meeting on Wednesday 16th February and speak to the club office bearers about what they can do to help.

“There are plenty of areas where parents can help out either before or on game day. The office bearer roles aren’t as hard as you may think and there is lots of support available. It’s very rewarding to be a part of a club and contribute to your children’s sporting memories.”

The Tabilk Junior Football Netball Club Inc. Committee have called a Special General Meeting due to the lack of attendance at the Annual General Meeting held on Wednesday 9th February 2022 therefore the office bearer elections could not be held.

The Tabilk Junior Football Netball Club Inc. requires five office bearers to remain viable for the 2022 season.

However it requires many more volunteers in other roles in order to field football and netball teams in the 2022 season.

The following motions were moved by President Hamish Fletcher and seconded by Vice President Amanda

Ruth Underwood, Rob Kemp, Pam Pedder, Spud Furletti (s) were two up on end 17. Shepparton Park, winning all but one of the remaining eight ends saw them overtake Avenel to win the game 27 – 20.

Motion 1: That a Special General Meeting be held at 6:00pm Wednesday 16th February 2022 at Nagambie Recreation Reserve to elect office bearers for the 2022 Season.

Motion 2: That, according to the Tabilk Junior Football Netball Club Inc. Constitution adopted in January 2002, section 21(1) The officers of the association shall be a) a President; b) two Vice-President; c) a Treasurer; and d) a Secretary And, in the case where these positions cannot be filled at the Special General Meeting then Tabilk Junior Football Netball Club Inc. will not field any Football or Netball teams for the 2022 season and will undergo a rebuilding phase post the Covid pandemic.

Tabilk Junior Football Netball Club was formed in 2002 with a strong history of community connection, good sportsmanship and strong family values.

From the recollections of locals Bill O’Connor and Terry O’Dwyer the Tabilk Junior Football Netball Club was formed after discussions by frustrated Nagambie and Avenel Parents of children playing at St Mary’s but not getting much time on the field due to the size of the club.

It was suggested that a new club be formed. At the end of the 2000 season the league only had five teams and it was suggested that two more were needed. Both Avenel and Nagambie were interested but neither had enough players to start a new junior football netball club at the time.

“There were flyers put up around Avenel to gauge interest to see if Avenel could do it on its own, but there wasn’t enough support.” Explained inaugural Secretary and founding member Bill O”Connor As Bill O’Connor remembers “I spoke to Neil Muir who was very keen on the idea (of a new club to the league).

We agreed that he would organize the Nagambie parents, I would organize the Avenel parents and get St Mary’s to chair the meeting. Neil asked what we should call the Club. I suggested Tabilk. We agreed that Tabilk was in the middle of the two towns with neither town being able to claim ownership.”

“This is where a lot of the philosophy of Tabilk JFC came from. If we were to build a new Club we would improve the opportunity for players from Avenel and Nagambie” explained Bill.

The meeting of parents eventuated at the end of the 2000 football season. St Mary’s President Bernie Hede chaired the meeting. From memory there were about a dozen people there, enough to run a club. This was an important turning point because for the first time it was apparent that there was enough parental support to make a new club work.

Chicken Run last Sunday sponsored by Burgess Signs was won by Dennis, Ruth King and Howard.

the Shire of Strathbogie's Community Grants Program.

Thanks to Kate McKernan, Craig White and David Lee for their advice and support before, during and after the completion of the project.

The 1 K draw, held on January 22 was a well attended and supported event. Thanks to the sponsors; The Prominent Group Printers Shepparton and Jo Lewis from Tahbilk Winery. Steph Gattuso was the driving force behind the night and managed to snag the 1k prize. This however paled into insignificance with the recent 80k windfall from Jono Moore with his win in the Go Fish competition. Well done Jono, local knowledge wins out.

With two matches remaining in the home and away draw the E Grade side sits in fourth place needing one more win to ensure a finals berth. Trent Gladwin had an outstanding all round game in the team's loss to top side Old Students. Trent top scored with 47 runs and claimed two wickets. Twenty eight players have played for the team this season which will make selection difficult for the finals.

The B Grade match versus second placed Mooroopna finished in a thrilling draw. Batting first Nagambie scored 8 for 209. Jono Moore, not just a prize winning angler, smashed 86 runs, Matty Martin 43 and Muggsy Matthews 28 ensuring a competitive total. Mooroopna were cruising at 3 for 184 but tight bowling restricted the total to 7 for 209. James Brook was the best of the trundlers with 1 for 19 from 9 economical overs.

With two wins the A Grade team are in the top six for the first time this season. Depending on results in the final rounds the team could finish from fourth to seventh. A win two weeks ago versus third placed Mooroopna was followed with a 45 run victory versus Euroa. Dale Short and Luke Nolan were the stand out batsmen in the two wins. A combination of pending fatherhood and steam cleaning seem to have brought the best out of Nathan Fothergill. His impressive 21 wicket tally this season was bolstered by his five wicket haul against Euroa.

The under 14 team occupy third place on the ladder and are ensured of finals action. In their most recent match they had a comfortable 57 run victory versus St Brendans. Archie Harrison top scored with 30 retired and claimed 2 wickets. A final round match versus second placed Euroa will have them primed to repeat their premiership success from last season.

Nagambie Cricket Club First some off field news. The club recently completed the final stage of the practice net project. The club was fortunate to gain funding for 50% of the project from Tabilk Junior Football (Netball) Club was formed on October 11, 2001 at an evening meeting held at Nagambie Recreation Reserve and chaired by League President Shawn Woods.

The parents in attendance that historic night were David Fitzgibbon, Greg Heathcote, Brian Hutcheson, Warrick Hutton, Tracy Lang, Wayne Le Cerf, Bryan Milne, Neil Muir, Bill O’Connor, Michael O’Connor, Terry O’Dwyer, Adrian Scopel, Alan Sykes, Alan Tranter, Brian Treloar, David Williams, Jeff Wheeler and Ian Shiner.

A steering committee was formed consisting of D Fitzgibbon, A Sykes, N Muir, B O’Connor, D Williams, J Wheeler, W Le Cerf, T O’Dwyer, A Tranter and W Hutton.

At the following meeting David Fitzgibbon was elected President, Bill O’Connor was Secretary and Terry O’Dwyer was Treasurer. The Club was on its way.

Inaugural Treasurer and founding member, Terry O’Dwyer recollected “Around about this time, Neil Muir had a word with Roy Williams, who was managing “Chatsworth Park” Tabilk. At that time, the property was run by Amanda Elliott, whose husband, John was President of Carlton Football Club. Neil suggested that Roy ask John if Carlton would donate some footy jumpers. Mr Elliott acquiesced and Carlton Football Club kindly donated 75 top quality Nike Football jumpers.”

The official launch of Tabilk JFC was on April 14, 2002.

By request, Tabilk played St Mary’s, which was fitting as many of the players in the new Tabilk Junior Football Club came from St Mary’s Junior Football Club. The day was launched by former Essendon star Ian Shelton. It was an exciting day for all, one that the committee had been planning all summer. A lot of people not connected with the club were present. Don Simpson’s loud speakers played the team songs as each team ran onto the field and the Tabilk boys looked very impressive in their brand new Nike jumpers, generously donated by Carlton Football Club.

“In the process of creating the new club, one thing was clear – the new footy club would try to give kids as much game time as possible – the goal was every kid should play at least a half game” recalls Terry O’Dwyer. And each player would be rotated through various positions on the ground. The club was created to develop football skills and involve kids in a team game, where winning at all costs wasn’t the imperative.

“In early 2002, the committee had a meeting with a representative from the Victorian Country Football League, and the league was peeved that we wouldn’t be playing in a jumper with the VCFL logo on it – they suggested we use the Carlton jumpers as training jumpers and buy new Guernseys from them! The Club received no financial assistance from the VCFL and raised all the

Hugh Mckeown, Blake Ezard and Will Ulrich at the recently completed nets. necessary funds themselves.

The committee did a marvelous job of fundraising themselves led by Terry O’Dwyer with the assistance of John Hurley, who was a vet at Collingrove (now Swettenham Stud). John did the rounds of horse studs in the area and was able to gather a tidy amount of donations to help the formation of the new club. The Tahbilk and Mitchelton wineries were also generous in their support as were a number of other individuals and businesses.

The player registration day was held in early 2002 and there were long queues of likely footballers waiting to sign on. The registration day was held at Nagambie recreation Reserve and Barry Connolly, President of the Goulburn Valley Football league addressed the parents and players.

Afterwards Terry Wheeler ( ex Footscray player and coach) had a skills session with the footballers.

The club truly was supported by their communities, on the eve of the very first match, a very generous individual, Howard Lack (an ex Avenel resident) made a very generous $5000 donation to the new club. Howard had spent some years in Sydney and seen aimless youths wandering the streets and thought that TJFC would be a great focus for young boys in the Avenel and Nagambie district.

It was decided that the main training session would be held at Avenel Football Club on a Friday night and Allan Sykes received the generous support of Wren’s Bus lines, and drove Nagambie kids to Avenel on a Wren bus in 2002. This was true community spirit, with parents and community coming together to support the young players.

Well into the first season they had their first win. The boys were ecstatic, the mothers were crying and the Dads were proud. It was worth being in the rooms to hear the squeaky little voices sing the team song. Adrian Scopel had to hold up the sign because the boys didn’t know the words. Young Mark Hutcheson was absent and furious that he missed the big win.

For the record, the first goal kicked for Tabilk JFC was

by Alex Fitzgibbon, son of 2002/3 President David Fitzgibbon.

Bill O’Connor reminisced “I remember leaning against the boundary fence with Neil Muir, both thinking that this is all right, that we’ve created something worthwhile.”

We agree with Bill, Neil and Terry, that the Tabilk Junior Football Netball Club is very worthwhile and If you want your children to play junior football or netball in 2022 then it is time to get involved in the club before it is too late.

Quotes taken from 'Set up club by Bill Oconnor & Terry O’Dwyer’ https:// websites.mygameday.app/club_info. cgi?c=0-6195-80881-0-0&sID=114790

20 | THE COMMUNITY VOICE | 16 FEBRUARY 2022 | ISSUE 493