Christmas Gift Guide Issue 2, 2025 Riverine Herald, Kyabram Free Press, Campaspe News

RIVERINE HERALD

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 28, 2025 19

ISSUE 2 | 2025

CHRISTMAS GIFT GUIDE

SHOP LOCAL and win $4000 IN GIFT CARDS TO BE WON

20 RIVERINE HERALD

2025

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 28, 2025

CHRISTMAS G I F T G U I D E

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Help deliver hamper joy

By Jaci Hicken For more than a decade Julie Langdon has poured her heart into bringing Christmas joy to Echuca-Moama families through her community lunch and hamper initiative.

The initiative began when Julie discovered families in the area had nowhere to go for Christmas Day. “About 13 or 14 years ago, when I used to work at St Luke’s Anglicare, someone rang and asked if I knew of any services that put on a Christmas lunch on Christmas Day,” Mrs Langdon said.

Wanting to extend the Christmas magic beyond just one meal, Mrs Langdon created special Christmas hampers for families to take home.

“I was mindful that the lunch guests could have a really exciting, hopeful day, be surrounded by heaps of people for four hours, then

Riverine Herald editor Nikala Dixon and Julie Langdon are getting behind the Echuca Moama hamper drive

Photo: JORDAN TOWNROW go home to a unit on their own and that would hit them in the face,” she said.

“So, we decided to do the Christmas hampers so they

can unpack their hamper when they go home.

“It is full of traditional Christmas goodies and a little Christmas present.

“Then The Riv came on board and they do the hamper drive for me.”

This is where you can help.

Over the next four weeks, Echuca Moama Community Projects and The Riv need your help to create 100 special hampers that

will brighten Christmas for local families.

This will help spread Christmas cheer to those who otherwise spend Christmas alone.

Here is how it works: STEP 1: Each week, purchase this week’s item from an Echuca-Moama business Starting Monday, November 24, 2025, we’re collecting green bags – whether they’re decorative shopping bags or cooler bags.

STEP 2: During weekday office hours, drop the item into the box at the Riverine Herald office at 28 Percy St, Echuca.

STEP 3: Your item will be added to a hamper.

These hampers will be lovingly distributed at the Christmas lunch at Echuca-Moama Uniting Church on Christmas Day, ensuring no-one spends the holidays alone. ▯ You have until Thursday, December 18, 2025 to drop off your hampers.

Girgarre Christmas fete full of family fun

By Jaci Hicken The Girgarre Community Cottage is hosting a Christmas fete on Saturday, December 6, 2025, from 5.30pm to 7.30pm at Progress Park at Girgarre.

The event will be held opposite Dunstalls Rural Supplies to take advantage of the extensive shade available.

Girgarre Community Cottage co-ordinator Sally Canning said the fete would feature “10 to 12 market stalls with a focus on gifts”.

She explained these would be “gifts especially for the people you can’t buy for, teachers’ gifts, parents will be able to knock that off the list”.

The event will include a dedicated children’s zone with large outdoor games, kids’ craft activities and Christmas-themed cookie decorating.

Food options will include a barbecue, candy caravan, pancakes from the Girgarre market pancake vendor and a coffee van.

“We figure if you are dealing

with that many kids, everyone’s going to need coffee,” Mrs Canning said.

Santa may arrive on a fire truck and will be positioned at the old train station where parents can take their own photos.

“We won’t be charging for Santa photos,” Mrs Canning said.

Most activities will operate on a gold coin donation basis, including sausages, drinks, fairy floss and zooper doopers.

“It is just a really fun, cheap night for everyone. Activities are free and

entry is free,” she said.

The cottage plans to offer a gift-wrapping station for gold coin donations, potentially using donated wrapping paper.

Christmas carols will play throughout the event to maintain a festive atmosphere.

“We want to make sure it is more about bringing people together,” Mrs Canning said.

“We made it a fete, because other towns have carols, some even with fireworks and we wanted to keep the kids from getting bored.

“I have three mums who are on the committee helping me, that said, we need to do something different, and the town is getting more kids and families and we need to really focus on what they would like.”

The Girgarre Christmas fete would like to thank the Girgarre Development Group, the Market committee, and three volunteer mothers: Suz, Leesh and Danii for their support. ▯ For further information, contact the Girgarre Community Cottage.

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RIVERINE HERALD

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FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 28, 2025 21

CHRISTMAS G I F T G U I D E

Jingle bells set to chime at Moama

SHOP LOCAL and win

By Jaci Hicken

Mathoura Events Committee is hosting Christmas Carols at Soldiers Memorial Park on Sunday, December 7, from 6pm to 8pm.

Join Mathoura’s festive carols Carols by Candlelight in Moama.

Dillmac tutors Indie Gilmore, Kate Thompson, Indra Hubble and Ruby Omen will also take the stage.

“Our core group of Dillmac Kyabram and Echuca are performing at the carols, which is about 30 of our students,” Ms Dillon said. ‘ The evening will feature 28 musical numbers, with performers having completed about 20 hours of home rehearsal plus intensive group sessions.

“The kids have their two big six-hour rehearsals coming up,” Ms Dillon said.

“We have a bigger sound system this year, thanks to Andrew Moore from AJM Sound, so it will be awesome.”

Traditional Christmas fare will be available, including coffee, doughnuts, ice-cream, chips and sausages from various vendors.

Father Christmas will

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Moama Lions Club and Dillmac Entertainment have joined force again in 2025 for the Moama carols. make his annual appearance, with Dillmac students in Christmas T-shirts distributing lolly bags.

Murray River Council, Moama RSL, Rich River Golf Club and Moama Bowling Club sponsor the event.

Entry is free, with numbered brochures available for purchase on the night.

These numbered brochures contain the carol lyrics and serve as entries for prize draws

throughout the evening.

Candles and sparklers will be provided with each brochure purchase.

Ample parking will be available at the recreation reserve, with designated accessible parking spaces near the main entrance.

The venue features wheelchair-accessible pathways and facilities, ensuring all community members can enjoy the festivities.

Gather your family and friends for a joyful evening filled with music, community spirit and holiday cheer.

The Mathoura Events Committee will host Christmas Carols at Soldiers Memorial Park on Sunday, December 7, from 6pm to 8pm.

The free community event will feature entertainment by Callum Gleeson and local school children performing Christmas carols.

Committee president Pam Fitzpatrick said the event aimed to bring the community together during what can be a difficult time of year.

“Events like Mathoura Christmas Carols are important to bring the community together to support each other at a time that can be difficult,” she said.

The evening will include a barbecue dinner for attendees, with the only costs being drinks, ice-cream, icy-poles and raffle tickets.

The event will feature entertainment by Callum Gleeson and local school children performing Christmas carols. Photos: Zowie Crump Five raffles will be available, including one children’s raffle and four hamper raffles.

The children will be entertained with free activities and a visit from Santa.

The event welcomes everyone and requires no admission fee.

The Christmas Carols will be held at the corner of Livingstone and Lawrence Sts at Mathoura.

Don’t forget to bring your chairs and picnic blankets and soak up the Christmas spirit.

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The Moama Christmas Carols, a beloved community tradition running for more than 30 years under the Lions Club of Moama, will move to a new venue this year to accommodate growing crowds.

The event will take place at the main oval of Moama Recreation Reserve on December 7, 2025, from 6.30pm to 8.30pm.

The relocation comes after last year’s event at the soundshell attracted about 1,500 people, far exceeding the expected number of attendees.

The new venue provides more space and improved safety, moving the festivities away from busy roads.

Dillmac Entertainment will again provide the majority of performances, with principal teacher Liz Dillon co-ordinating the entertainment.

“Dillmac helped out last year to help keep the carols going and help out the Lions Club,” Ms Dillon said.

“This year, the carols have moved to the Moama Recreation Reserve, for more space and a safer area, not so close to the road.”

The performance lineup includes the Moama Primary School choir, Moama Grammar junior choir, the silent voices group from We are Vivid and Echuca Bellas led by Marion Heywood.

Katie Stroud will perform several numbers, while

22 RIVERINE HERALD

2025

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 28, 2025

CHRISTMAS G I F T G U I D E

SHOP LOCAL and win

Enjoy delicious shortbread Jaci Hicken, our seasoned journalist and trained chef, has been busy in the kitchen preparing easy, low-cost Christmas recipes that you can cook and share and gift as personalised Christmas baked-goods.

It is amazing how tasty this simple shortbread recipe is.

I’ve found myself having to sample a few too many pieces of this rich, buttery, crumbly Scottish biscuit in the lead-up to Christmas.

You use rice flour, which you can find in a red box in the flour section of the supermarket, to give a traditional Scottish shortbread the grainy texture you can taste.

This Christmas, I’ve pressed and cut my shortbread into a shape known as petticoat tails, which, according to Historic UK, is attributed to Mary, Queen of Scots, as she was said to be very fond of her shortbread in this shape, flavoured with caraway seeds.

If you don’t want to cut your shortbread into petticoat tails, rounds and fingers are also traditional shapes.

To press and cut petticoat tails, divide the dough into four, then use an 11cm cookie cutter to form the round shape.

You can make only one large petticoat tail if you want.

I cut my dough into four to make the cooking time a little bit shorter and knowing myself, if I’d only made one biscuit I would have had to eat the whole biscuit at once.

If you are going to cut your shortbread into rounds or fingers, cook for a shorter time, more like 15 minutes rather than 20.

Once you cut the petticoat tails, you leave the biscuits joined together to bake, then break them

Ok, so I might have had too many biscuits! into shapes once they are cooled.

If you want to add a bit of Christmas decadence, sprinkle over caster sugar once you remove your shortbread from the oven, before they have cooled.

You sprinkle the sugar while the shortbread is still hot, so that it slightly melts into the shortbread and sticks to it.

Shortbread became a Christmas tradition very early on, as butter was a luxury food for ordinary people, so shortbread was reserved for special occasions such as weddings, Christmas and New Year's celebrations.

With the price of butter currently in the supermarket, shortbread will likely become a luxury food again.

Ingredients • 180g of plain flour • 50g of rice flour • 60g of caster sugar • 150g of butter at room temperature • Extra caster sugar Method • Preheat your oven to 160°C or

150°C (fan forced).

• Sift the flours together, add the sugar, then rub in the butter until a stiff dough forms.

Turn out onto a lightly floured surface and knead until very smooth.

• Roll out until 5mm thick, then cut into your shortbread shapes. I’ve rolled and pressed my shortbread into petticoat tails.

• Bake at 160°C until pale yellow, about 15 to 20 minutes.

• When you remove it from the oven, sift the extra sugar over, then leave the shortbread to cool.

If you would like to follow along with baking your own shortbread you can find the recipe online in the Riv app.

Enjoy this Christmas tradition.

– Jaci ▯ Do you have a favourite family Christmas recipe?

Share your favourite Christmas recipes with Jaci at jaci.hicken@mmg.com.au

Sift 180g of plain flour and 50g of rice flour.

Roll until smooth.

Add 60g of caster sugar and mix together.

Cut into four rounds.

Add 150g of butter.

Press into a petticoat tail shape.

Knead together with your fingertips.

Cut into a petticoat tail shape, then bake a 160C for 15 to 20 minutes.

Once cooked remove from oven and sprinkle over extra sugar.

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24 RIVERINE HERALD

2025

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 28, 2025

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CHRISTMAS G I F T G U I D E

Trees to bring a lot of glee

By Jaci Hicken Rochester Community House is bringing back its popular Christmas tree display for the third consecutive year, transforming the historic Shire Hall into a festive wonderland from December 1 to 19.

Rochester Community House youth and community development co-ordinator Jenna Harvey said the display was revived in 2023 following the devastating 2022 floods that severely impacted the Rochester community.

“The Christmas tree display used to run many years ago by a local church group and after the 2022 floods, in 2023 we thought Christmas needed a little bit of extra specialness,” Mrs Harvey said.

“We decided to bring back the Christmas tree display, using our beautiful Shire Hall.

Visitors can enjoy the festive wonderland daily from 9am to noon, with group appointments available by contacting Rochester Community House.

“This will be the third year under our roof.”

The event has grown significantly since its revival, with more than 20 trees already registered by early November.

“Last year saw over 30 Christmas trees from lots of different local businesses, groups and organisations on display,” Mrs Harvey said.

“This year we have already got more than 20 registered at the start of November, which means

there may be over 40 Christmas trees this year.”

The display features creative contributions from diverse community groups, as well as local businesses that have embraced the creative challenge.

“We have Christmas trees from local church groups,” Mrs Harvey said.

“We have a tree from the Rochester Knitting and Crocheting Club that is always magnificent.

“The crocheting group

started making their decorations in March, and we have had a sneak peek at the nativity set and it is absolutely gorgeous.”

“Rochester Tyres have been fantastic the last two years.

“They have made a snowman and a Christmas tree out of tyres, which has been very cool.” ▯ The display runs from 9am to noon daily at Rochester Shire Hall, 43-45 Mackay St,

The event was revived in 2023 after the devastating floods in 2022, bringing back a tradition that used to be run by a local church group.

Rochester, with group appointments, outside of these times, available by phoning Rochester Community House on 03 5484 3600.

Entry is free, though

gold-coin donations are welcome to help ensure the tradition continues.

Visitors can vote for their favourite tree, with the top three winning prizes.

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FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 28, 2025 25

CHRISTMAS G I F T G U I D E

Gingerbread house charm

SHOP LOCAL and win

By Jaci Hicken

The Tongala kiosk has been transformed into a lifesize gingerbread house display by the Tongala Lions Club.

Photos: Ryan Bellingham

house until the shire want it back to be something else. We have made it pretty secure and it is going to

be on display until something changes.”

Community response has been overwhelmingly positive.

“We have had a fair bit of community support, people are happy with it and everyone has been very positive,” Murray said.

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Christmas Opening Times & Bin Collection Christmas Operations at Council

Some Council services have reduced or different hours of operation during the Christmas period. The following changes to opening hours will occur between Wednesday, 24 December and 8:30am on Monday, 5 January 2026.

Council services: Service Centres & Libraries Echuca: Closes 3pm, Wednesday 24 December Service Centre reopens 8.30am Monday 5 January 2026 Library reopens 10am, Monday 5 January 2026 Kyabram: Closes 3pm, Wednesday 24 December Reopens 8.30am, Monday 5 January 2026 Rochester: Closes 3pm, Wednesday 24 December Reopens 8.30am, Tuesday 6 January 2026 Rushworth: Closes 4.30pm, Tuesday 23 December Reopens 8.30am, Monday 5 January 2026 Tongala: Closes 4.30pm, Tuesday 23 December Reopens 8.30am, Monday 5 January 2026 Online library services and after-hours return chutes will remain available.

• Campaspe Animal Services will close at 3pm on Wednesday, 24 December, and be closed on Christmas Day. Open via appointment, 10am to 12 noon, on Boxing Day and New Year’s Day. Open other days by appointment as per usual operating hours; phone 5480 3005.

• On-call ranger services operate throughout the holiday period for emergencies only. For urgent requests, call 1300 666 535 and follow the prompts.

• Echuca War Memorial Aquatic Centre — closed Christmas Day. • Outdoor swimming pools — closed Christmas Day. • Maternal and Child Health service operates for first home visits and essential appointments only. An online booking form is available on Council’s website, or phone the MCH booking line on 1300 644 964 for appointment options.

• Campaspe Community Children’s Centre closes 5:45pm on Tuesday, 23 December and reopens on Wednesday, 7 January 2026.

• Rochester Early Learning closes 6pm on Tuesday, 23 December and reopens Wednesday, 7 January 2026.

• The volunteer-based community transport will conclude on Thursday, 18 December and will reopen for bookings on Tuesday, 20 January. Trips will start again on Wednesday, 21 January.

• Service requests lodged during Council’s office closure period will be attended to upon reopening of the Council offices.

• Resource Recovery Centres are closed Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day.

Kerbside bin collections:

Kerbside waste collection dates will change as follows during Christmas week, with collections to commence from 5am: Usual collection day Christmas week collection day Thursday, 25 December Friday, 26 December Friday, 26 December Saturday, 27 December Collections will return to normal on Monday, 29 December 2025 and onwards.

18 December – Customer Service Centre closures:

The following applies for Customer Service Centres and Libraries on Thursday, 18 December: Echuca Customer Service Centre and Library will close at 11.45am.

Kyabram, Tongala, Rochester, and Rushworth Customer Service Centres and Libraries will close at 11am.

Services resume as usual Friday, 19 December.

Please refer to the Campaspe Shire Council website for more detailed information www.campaspe.vic.gov.au

177300

The Tongala kiosk has been transformed into a tasty Christmas treat, a gingerbread house.

Tongala Lions Club member Murray Ross said the group had transformed an old kiosk into a life-size gingerbread house display.

“It is the old kiosk. We have refurbished the outside of it so it is a life-size gingerbread house,” Murray said.

The Campaspe Shire contributed to material costs for the project.

“The Campaspe Shire helped with the costs of the materials. The Lions Club of Tongala put it together and the Lions Club designed it,” Murray said.

“It will be a gingerbread

26 RIVERINE HERALD

2025

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 28, 2025

SHOP LOCAL and win

CHRISTMAS G I F T G U I D E

Christmas fun, food and bocce

By Jaci Hicken

The Kyabram Bocce Club will host its Christmas pasta night on Thursday, December 4, with doors opening at 6pm and meals served from 7pm.

“Every three months we have a pasta night at the Kyabram Bocce Club,” Kyabram Bocce Club treasurer Mr Greco said.

“Mother’s Day, Father’s Day and Christmas and will keep on doing that as long as we can.

“We have a lovely bunch of ladies who do home-cooked meals, Italian-style meals.”

The evening will feature an entrée, a choice of

pasta mains, and dessert, all prepared fresh using seasonal vegetables.

“Everything is cooked fresh, using whatever vegetables are in season and everything is homecooked style,” Mr Greco said.

“We don’t have a traditional Aussie Christmas meal, we have an Italian meal.”

A call was put into Lucy Portia, a long-time member of Kyabram Bocce Club, for a hint of the Christmas pasta night menu.

Mrs Portia is one of the lovely ladies who has been cooking dinner for the pasta nights for a

while at the bocce club.

She was thinking this year’s Christmas pasta night menu will feature antipasto and soup as the entrée, lasagna and spaghetti as the mains and trifle for dessert.

Entertainment includes $100 in raffle prizes, plus additional prizes, with opportunities to socialise and play Raffa bocce.

“Everyone comes along and enjoys themselves and if they want to have a game of Raffa bocce they can or we sit around and socialise,” Mr Greco said.

“And we tell a few funny jokes.

“Everyone is welcome to come along, as we are

a multicultural community and everybody is invited.”

Mr Greco described the night as an ideal venue for staff breakups.

The club operates on Mondays and Fridays for cards, with bocce played every Wednesday.

It has changed from bocce to Raffa bocce, another discipline of the game, as it is more accessible for the elderly and families to play. ▯ Reservations must be made by Monday, December 1, by phoning Kyabram Bocce Club treasurer Joe Greco on 0419 157 605.

Kyabram Bocce Club’s Raffa Business Challenge championships. Monica King.

SPECIAL TREATS FOR SANTA AND HIS REINDEER Make Christmas Eve extra magical by letting the kids help Santa and his reindeer refuel for their busy night.

Here’s a list of festive treats to leave out: For Santa: • Classic cookies (chocolate chip, gingerbread, sugar)

• Mini muffins or cupcakes • Sliced fruit (apple, orange or berries) • Candy canes • Warm milk or a small glass of hot chocolate • Rice biscuit treats • Small pieces of chocolate

• Hay or grass (optional, for a realistic touch) Extra festive touches: • Sprinkle some “magic reindeer food” (edible glitter or oats mixed with sugar) • Place everything on a small plate or tray with a note for Santa

For the reindeer: • Carrots (whole or sliced) • Apple slices • Celery sticks • Oats or granola • Peppermint treats (for a fun festive touch)

Christmas Hampers Filled with Natural Goodness Because nature makes the best gifts with pure ingredients.

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26 RIVERINE HERALD

2025

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 28, 2025

SHOP LOCAL and win

CHRISTMAS G I F T G U I D E

Christmas fun, food and bocce

By Jaci Hicken

The Kyabram Bocce Club will host its Christmas pasta night on Thursday, December 4, with doors opening at 6pm and meals served from 7pm.

“Every three months we have a pasta night at the Kyabram Bocce Club,” Kyabram Bocce Club treasurer Mr Greco said.

“Mother’s Day, Father’s Day and Christmas and will keep on doing that as long as we can.

“We have a lovely bunch of ladies who do home-cooked meals, Italian-style meals.”

The evening will feature an entrée, a choice of

pasta mains, and dessert, all prepared fresh using seasonal vegetables.

“Everything is cooked fresh, using whatever vegetables are in season and everything is homecooked style,” Mr Greco said.

“We don’t have a traditional Aussie Christmas meal, we have an Italian meal.”

A call was put into Lucy Portia, a long-time member of Kyabram Bocce Club, for a hint of the Christmas pasta night menu.

Mrs Portia is one of the lovely ladies who has been cooking dinner for the pasta nights for a

while at the bocce club.

She was thinking this year’s Christmas pasta night menu will feature antipasto and soup as the entrée, lasagna and spaghetti as the mains and trifle for dessert.

Entertainment includes $100 in raffle prizes, plus additional prizes, with opportunities to socialise and play Raffa bocce.

“Everyone comes along and enjoys themselves and if they want to have a game of Raffa bocce they can or we sit around and socialise,” Mr Greco said.

“And we tell a few funny jokes.

“Everyone is welcome to come along, as we are

a multicultural community and everybody is invited.”

Mr Greco described the night as an ideal venue for staff breakups.

The club operates on Mondays and Fridays for cards, with bocce played every Wednesday.

It has changed from bocce to Raffa bocce, another discipline of the game, as it is more accessible for the elderly and families to play. ▯ Reservations must be made by Monday, December 1, by phoning Kyabram Bocce Club treasurer Joe Greco on 0419 157 605.

Kyabram Bocce Club’s Raffa Business Challenge championships. Monica King.

SPECIAL TREATS FOR SANTA AND HIS REINDEER Make Christmas Eve extra magical by letting the kids help Santa and his reindeer refuel for their busy night.

Here’s a list of festive treats to leave out: For Santa: • Classic cookies (chocolate chip, gingerbread, sugar)

• Mini muffins or cupcakes • Sliced fruit (apple, orange or berries) • Candy canes • Warm milk or a small glass of hot chocolate • Rice biscuit treats • Small pieces of chocolate

• Hay or grass (optional, for a realistic touch) Extra festive touches: • Sprinkle some “magic reindeer food” (edible glitter or oats mixed with sugar) • Place everything on a small plate or tray with a note for Santa

For the reindeer: • Carrots (whole or sliced) • Apple slices • Celery sticks • Oats or granola • Peppermint treats (for a fun festive touch)

Christmas Hampers Filled with Natural Goodness Because nature makes the best gifts with pure ingredients.

MENSWEAR

Present this voucher and receive 20% off any item.

Purchase 2 or more and receive 30% off. *Valid until 24/12/2025 Monday – Friday ....9am – 5pm Saturday ..................9am – 2pm

175383

65/73 Nish Street, Echuca VIC 3564 (Fountain Plaza) • (03) 5480 6417 admin@liberationholistichealth.com.au • liberationholistichealth.com.au

NOW OPEN

176694

“Nourish, pamper, and delight — naturally”

All the latest Toys - Games - Lego Jigsaws - AFL Merchandise

IN ECHUCA…

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RIVERINE HERALD

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 28, 2025 27

CHRISTMAS G I F T G U I D E

2025

SHOP LOCAL and win

Fill a red bag, spread cheer

By Jaci Hicken Epicentre Church Op Shop is calling on the community to support its Christmas red bag food drive, which aims to provide festive meals for those in need during the holiday season.

Epicentre Church op shop manager Sage Wiltshire explained how the initiative works.

“Our Christmas red bag food drive is where we distribute red bags within the community,” she said.

“And community members generously fill them up with Christmas goodies for those in need to enjoy on Christmas Day.” The bags are filled with non-perishable items that make Christmas special.

“Non-perishable food items, things like custard, puddings and all those goodies that you would enjoy on Christmas Day, for those who might not

shop here, that is open two days a week, Wednesdays and Fridays,” Mrs Wiltshire said.

The service provides pantry items, frozen meat, and bread by appointment.

The shop assists various vulnerable groups, including homeless people and those fleeing violence.

“We can give them food, we can provide them with white goods, kitchen things, clothes and all that stuff,” Mrs Wiltshire said.

“It is good that it’s all at the op shop, because food isn’t the only need quite often, so we can help them by giving them what they need.” ▯ Epicentre Op Shop is located at 75 Ogilvie Ave, Echuca, and is open Monday to Friday from 9.30am to 4pm and Saturday 9.30am to 12.30pm.

Epicentre Church Op Shop in Echuca is running a Christmas red bag food drive to provide festive meals for those in need during the holiday season. Pictured are Pastor Robert Wiltshire and Sage Wiltshire.

Photo: Jordan Townrow be able to afford that, so they can still have a good Christmas,” Mrs Wiltshire said.

Community members can participate by collecting empty bags from the op shop and returning

them filled by December 18.

Last year’s drive was highly successful, with significant community support.

“We had over 100 donated last year, so we

were able to hand them out to clients that we have through the food pantry, as well to those in need in the community,” she said.

The surplus bags were then distributed to police officers working over

Christmas and hospital patients in palliative and complex care.

The op shop also operates a regular food pantry service.

“We have a food pantry that runs through the

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28 RIVERINE HERALD

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 28, 2025

RIVERINE HERALD

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 28, 2025 29

30 RIVERINE HERALD

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 28, 2025

SHOP LOCAL and win

CHRISTMAS G I F T G U I D E

2025

Recycle right this Christmas Campaspe Shire Council is urging residents to properly separate their Christmas waste to maximise recycling opportunities during the festive season.

Campaspe Shire Council is urging residents to properly separate their Christmas waste to maximise recycling opportunities and minimise their waste costs during the festive season.

Council manager waste and environment James Marsh emphasised the importance of understanding what can and cannot be recycled.

“The most important thing about Christmas waste is that we recommend you separate your waste to maximise what can be recycled and save yourself some money,” Mr Marsh said.

“Sometimes people get confused about what can be recycled.”

All food waste, including

bones and shellfish, should go in the green FOGO bin.

However, Mr Marsh warned against common packaging confusion.

“Just because food is packaged in plastic does not mean the plastic can then go in the green bin,” he said.

“It is only the food itself.”

Wrapping paper presents another challenge for recyclers.

“Often, that really thin, shiny wrapping paper that a lot of people use cannot be recycled because it is layered with plastic,” Mr Marsh said.

“We encourage people to use newspapers or brown wrapping paper that you get from post offices, even textiles such as tea towels make great wrapping paper that can be reused year after year.”

Electronic waste poses significant safety risks, with the council experiencing five truck fires in the

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past 18 months caused by e-waste.

“E-waste is anything that is powered by electricity, including the batteries themselves,” Mr Marsh said.

“If it has anything to do with electricity, it can’t go in the kerbside bin.”

Even seemingly innocent items can be problematic.

“Some people aren’t aware that if a teddy bear speaks, it is e-waste and it has to go to a resource recovery centre,” he said.

For guidance, residents can access the Recyclemate app at recyclemate. com.au

You can download the app or go to the website and it will tell you where you can dispose of all of your materials through multiple disposal facilities.

This includes information about the disposal of batteries, soft plastics and polystyrene.

Council is doing high-visitation skip bins for campers’ waste to encourage them to dispose of their waste correctly again over the summer.

“A gentle reminder, it is only for campers, we need to ensure they have capacity for campers at all times” Mr Marsh said.

“Residents, please do not use those bins, they are not for you.

“While I realise it is a cheap and easy option, it is not designed for you and if we catch you dumping in the bin, there may be penalties that apply.

“If the skips are full, please don’t leave items beside them.

“Instead, pop into a Resource Recovery Centre, it’s easy and safe!

“These areas are used by lots of people, including kids, and we want everyone to enjoy the festive season without accidents.

“And remember, campers’ waste is accepted free of charge at all resource recovery centres.”

With Victoria’s Container Deposit Scheme now operational, bottles and cans can generate revenue with a great CDS depot on Hume St, Echuca.

Residents can go to cdsvic.org.au for other CDS

locations and a list of charities that proceeds can be donated to.

Christmas trees require special handling.

Real trees can go to resource recovery centres using ratepayer vouchers as green waste, while fake trees go in the red bin if dismantled.

If your fake tree cannot be dismantled to fit in the red bin, it will have to be taken to a resource recovery centre for disposal as general waste.

All council resource recovery centres will be closed on Christmas Day and New Year’s Day. Collection schedules will shift, with Christmas Day collections moving to Friday and Friday collections to Saturday, returning to normal from December 29. ▯ For information, contact the council, view the council’s website or try other alternatives such as Recycle Mate.

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RIVERINE HERALD

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 28, 2025 31

By Jaci Hicken

A PHOTO WITH THE MAN IN RED

Rochester Sportspower will host its third annual Christmas event featuring Santa arriving by fire truck, with the Grinch making a special appearance this year.

Rochester Sportspower owner Chanel Hartshorne said the free event would take place on Sunday, November 30, at 10am.

“This year, we have a different photographer who will do free photos, which are absolutely free,’’ Mrs Hartshorne said.

“And as a bonus the customer will get the photo instantly.”

The event asks for gold coin donations to support the Rochester CFA, with all funds raised going directly to the fire brigade.

Mrs Hartshorne explained the motivation behind the initiative.

“I thought about it about three years ago. I was like ‘How can I help families

Can’t make it along to Rochester Sportspower on November 30, then here are some other places the man in red will be stopping in at.

November 27 Get your photo taken with Santa at the Echuca Plant Farm from 4.30pm to 6.30pm. Bookings online at echucamoamapalntfarm.com.au with 100 per cent of proceeds donated to local hospitals.

November 29 Santa will be at Larder & Co, 178-180 Annesley St, Echuca from 9am to noon, with photo booking available; $5 donation to the CFA. Photos can be purchased for a fee from BT Photoboths and Events.

that can’t afford to get Santa photos because they are too expensive?’,” she said.

“I was like, ‘What about if I get a photographer, everyone donates their time and we just ask that people give a donation’.”

The Christmas event coincides with store-wide sales, including 20 per cent off all shoes on the Sunday, including Crocs.

“We have got a clearance rack out the front that is chocka blocker and there is nothing over $20,” Mrs Hartshorne said.

“Rochester Sportspower is all about making it easy for families this Christmas.”

The store offers no-deposit layby until Christmas, free local delivery and price matching.

Special deals include discounts on netball rings, 10 per cent off full-size 28-inch basketball systems and $100 off table tennis and pivot air hockey tables.

The store stocks numerous bikes built on-site by a qualified mechanic, all of which include your first free service.

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Call in and check out our huge variety of Apparel, prints, jewellery, knitting yarn, handbags, toys and much, much, more.

My Perfect Home Moama Market Place

Shop 6, 2 Perricoota Rd Moama (Moama Market Place) | Ph 5482 1888 Open Hours: Monday - Friday 9am-5.30pm, Saturday 9am-4pm, Sunday 10am-3pm

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We listen to what you need and offer wardrobe pieces to suit your occasion, your body shape and colours.

Call in and see Tammy and the team today!

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CHRISTMAS G I F T G U I D E

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32 RIVERINE HERALD

2025

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 28, 2025

CHRISTMAS G I F T G U I D E

SHOP LOCAL and win

Sprinkle a little kindness One of the best ways to embrace this season is by encouraging children to spread kindness within their families and communities.

Engaging in acts of kindness not only brightens the lives of others, but also fosters important values like empathy, compassion and connection.

Here are some delightful activities that families can enjoy together to cultivate the spirit of kindness during Christmas.

Creating handmade gifts Encourage children to tap into their creativity by making handmade gifts for family members or friends.

From decorated picture frames to personalised ornaments, these thoughtful creations often hold more meaning than store-bought items.

Spend an afternoon crafting together, sharing

Personalised Christmas cards are a special way to share kindness. stories and laughter as you create unique treasures.

Writing Christmas cards Writing heartfelt

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Christmas cards is a simple yet impactful way for children to express their feelings.

Gather supplies like

Photo: ASIFE

coloured paper, markers, and stickers, and let kids design cards to send to grandparents, friends or even local nursing homes.

Large range of Art Supplies in store...

The joy of receiving a personalised card can brighten someone’s day and foster a sense of connection.

Volunteering together Making time to volunteer as a family can be a rewarding experience.

Look for local shelters, food banks, or community centres that welcome volunteers during the holiday season.

Whether it’s sorting food donations or serving meals, children will learn the importance of giving back and the impact they can make in their community.

Acts of kindness calendar Create a “kindness calendar” for December, where each day features a simple act of kindness to complete as a family.

Ideas can include leaving a kind note for a neighbour, donating old toys, or helping a sibling

with their chores.

This fun activity not only spreads joy, but also encourages children to think about how their actions can positively affect others.

Here’s a simple list of some other ways you can back over Christmas: Donate to local charities – food, clothes, or toys for those in need.

Support local businesses – buy gifts or treats from small shops in your area.

Send a care package – to someone isolated, a friend or a family in need.

Share a meal – invite neighbours or those who may be spending Christmas alone.

Give blood – lifesaving and always needed, especially during the holidays.

Random acts of kindness – pay for someone’s coffee, leave a note of encouragement, or simply offer a smile.

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RIVERINE HERALD

2025

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 28, 2025 33

CHRISTMAS G I F T G U I D E

SHOP LOCAL and win

Buy in to Rochy’s charm

By Jaci Hicken The Rochester Business Network has organised a Shop Rochy day for Friday, December 5, to promote Rochester as a shopping destination and encourage locals and visitors to do their Christmas shopping in town.

The Shop Rochy day coincides with the Twilight Christmas market, featuring market stalls, entertainment, Christmas cheer, food and late-night shopping.

The Shop Rochy event runs all day with the Twilight Christmas Market running from 5pm to 8pm on Gilles St and Mackay St in Rochester.

Businesses with shopfronts are encouraged to stay open later to participate in the evening festivities.

Rochester Business Network president Sanjay Ranchhod said the day

Rochester Business Network president Sanjay Ranchhod and his son Hugo are helping to promote the Shop Rochy day and Twilight Market on December 5 to promote Rochester as a shopping destination for Christmas shopping.

Photo: Jordan Townrow would feature numerous activities.

“The road will be closed by the supermarket, Gilles St and coming along to Mackey St, so everyone can freely wander through and explore everything Rochester has to offer,” he said.

“There is a market along

the street from 5pm to 8pm with numerous prizes throughout the day.

“There are three main prizes for the day, so if you purchase anything from any store in Rochester on the day, you will be in the prize draw, with the winners drawn after

the market at 8pm.”

Customers can enter the prize draw by scanning a QR code and filling out their details.

All businesses in the Rochester Business Network are participating in the event.

Mr Ranchhod said the

day was important for community building.

“The day is important to help promote a time of thanksgiving in the community, celebrate the year that we have had together in Rochester and promote the local businesses,” he said.

“Rochester, after the

floods, things did slow down, it is not as busy as it was before, but it is getting there.

“People are coming back, people are getting more confident shopping in Rochester.”

The town offers a variety of Christmas shopping options.

“The town is well equipped for your Christmas shopping with everything from intricacies to sportswear and even giving gifts such as natural food,” Mr Ranchhod said.

“There is lots in Rochester that you can give, come and shop around and see what we have for Christmas.”

At his business, SR Health and Wellness Clinic, Mr Ranchhod will sell magnesium and protein products, as well as gift vouchers.

“If you are lucky, I might have 10-minute massages for a mini break, to help the neck and shoulders carry the shopping,” he said.

34 RIVERINE HERALD

2025

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 28, 2025

SHOP LOCAL and win

CHRISTMAS G I F T G U I D E

KD Country hits town

By Jaci Hicken

KD Country is at 163 Hare St is open Tuesday to Friday 9.30am to 5pm and Saturday 9.30am to 1pm, offering a variety of clothing and accessories. at one of the many field days or country shows, as the business also operates out of a mobile semi-trailer.

Her mobile truck operation takes her across the region to rodeos, country music festivals and field days.

“My truck is my pride and joy, I love getting in it

KD Country Clothing operates a mobile semi-trailer in addition to the store, taking her to rodeos, country music festivals, and field days across the region.

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Gold coin donation to CFA.

• Kids workwear • Embroidered towels • Safety boots • Protective eyewear • Natural insect repellent candles and creams • Work socks • John Deere clothing and toys, Tradie underwear

Sunday, November 30 at 10AM.

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move happen sooner.”

Ms Briffa wears many hats in her business operations.

“I’m the owner, cleaner, order person, maintenance person, driver, stock control person the list goes on, I do it all,” she said with a laugh.

Many people may have seen KD Country Clothing

The store stocks a range of items including boots, hats, jeans, shirts, tees, caps, belts, bags, jewellery, cowhides and Native American headdresses.

P: 5853 2777 117 ALLAN ST KYABRAM.

177791

KD Country Clothing owner Kristie Briffa has found her perfect home in Echuca after relocating from Kilmore.

The family-owned country and western wear store at 163 Hare St is open Tuesday to Friday 9.30am to 5pm and Saturday 9.30am to 1pm.

“There was a need in Northern Country Vic for this type of clothing and accessories, stores are far and few between that stock a good variety of stuff,” Ms Briffa said.

The move to Echuca happened sooner than planned when circumstances forced her hand.

“I love Echuca, I was always relocating the shop to Echuca,” she said.

“It was just a matter of ‘when’, but the universe took over and sold the building I was leasing in Kilmore and made that

and just driving, it’s a great balance to be in the shop a few days a week and then in the truck travelling around,” Ms Briffa said.

“I stock the truck full of boots, hats, jeans, shirts, tees, caps, belts, bags, jewellery.”

For Christmas shoppers, Ms Briffa highlights unique items including cowhides and Native American headdresses.

“I have some really beautiful cowhides in the store, something different,” she said.

“I just received an order of Native American headdresses that look awesome as a wall decoration.”

The store offers Afterpay and traditional layby options.

“If there is anything that a customer would like from any of the brands I carry then all they have to do is ask and I’ll do my best to get it for them,” Ms Briffa said.

RIVERINE HERALD

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 28, 2025 35

Be CHRISTMAS & SUMMER holiday ready!

Footwear for the whole family • Ladies Daywear Accessories • Gift vouchers & more

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*Terms and conditions: Black Friday offer is valid from Monday, 17th November 2025 until Monday, 1st December. The Black Friday ‘50% off mattresses, 30% off furniture and extra 10% off select products’ offer is subject to change at any time. Offer is available in-store and online.

Products available may differ between in-store and online. Exclusions apply. The offer is only available on selected mattresses and selected bedroom furniture. Excludes Sleep Savers range and Harrison Spinks. Product ranges excluded from 17th November 2025 until 23rd November 2025 are Sealy Hamilton and Lindeman mattresses. Product furniture ranges excluded from 17th November 2025 until 1st December 2025 are Valentine, Soho, Aria, Eden, Dunsborough, Kingscliff, Lara, Luna, and Powell ranges. Cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer. No rain checks. Delivery, installation, and additional costs may apply. Lay-buy not available at all stores, please contact your local store for availability. At participating stores only. Products and prices may vary from store to store.

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36 RIVERINE HERALD

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 28, 2025

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C E L E B R AT E T H E F E S T I V E S E A S O N DISCOVER WONDERFUL CHRISTMAS EVENTS HAPPENING ACROSS OUR COMMUNITY, PERFECT FOR CREATING CHERISHED MEMORIES WITH FAMILY AND FRIENDS WHILE CELEBRATING THE MAGIC OF THE SEASON TOGETHER.

C H R I S T M A S D I S P L AY S COL B O P U B C H OI R C H R I S T M A S C A R OL T R A I L — COL B I N A BBIN Explore the Christmas candles around town and scan the QR code to listen to carols sung by the Colbo Pub Choir.

CHRISTMAS CAROLS DEC E M B ER 7 — MATHOURA Join for a festive evening with music, community spirit, and a visit from Santa at Mathoura’s Christmas Carols, at 6pm Soldiers Memorial Park, Mathoura.

D EC EMB ER — S A N TA’ S G R OT TO

DEC E MBER 7 – MOAMA

Starting early in December, you can visit Santa’s grotto at the Rushworth Band Stand on the Village Green, with community-built Christmas trees and a special Christmas memorial tree.

This year the Lions Club of Moama, Moama Christmas Carols have move to a spacious new venue, promising more room and enhanced safety for all attendees.

With creative support from Dillmac Entertainment at the Moama Recreation Reserve, from 6.30pm.

D EC EMB ER 1 TO JA N UA RY 15 – WON D ER L A N D YA R N B OMBIN G Explore the Christmas yarn bombing throughout Allan St, Kyabram.

D EC EMB ER 1 TO 19 — R OC HE S T E R C H R I S T MA S T R EES D I S P L AY The Christmas tree display of over 40 trees runs from 9am to noon daily at the Rochester Shire Hall, 43-45 Mackay St, Rochester, with group appointments, outside of these times, available by calling Rochester Community House on 03 5484 3600.

D ECE M BER 2 TO 3 0 – C H R I S T MA S ILLUM IN AT ION Campaspe Shire comes alive, with illumination stations spread throughout the district.

They are in Echuca at Hopwood Gardens, Kyabram at Memorial Park and Rochester at Rotunda Park.

Community-led Christmas displays of decorations, lights, community Christmas trees and selfie spots can be found in Colbinabbin, Girgarre, Lockington, Nanneella, Rushworth and Stanhope. #illuminationstation #christmasincampaspe D EC EMB ER 13 TO 2 1 – S A N TA’S C AV E Visit the annual Santa’s Cave at the Kyabram Town Hall Gallery from 11am to 5pm.

DEC E M BE R 12 — STANHOPE CAROLS Family Christmas carols in Stanhope on Birdwood Ave at 6pm.

DEC E M BE R 13 — TONGAL A CHRISTMAS CAROLS Community Christmas Carols by Candlelight at the Tongala Sound Shell in Mangan St, Tongala at 6pm.

DEC E MBER 14 – ECHUCA Christmas By Candlelight at 7pm at Echuca Moama Uniting Church.

Featuring performances by Echuca Bellas Choir, River Voices, and Echuca Federation Band accompanied by organist and pianist David McNicol.

DEC E MBER 1 8 – KYABRAM Memorial Park, Allen St, Kyabram with free kids activities from 5pm, Christmas carols at 7.45pm and fireworks at 9.30pm DEC E M BER 1 8 – LOCKINGTON An evening of community Christmas carols at Lockington Lions Park, Lockington.

DEC E M B ER 21 — ROCHESTER Community Christmas carols at the Junior Football Club rooms, Reserve St, Rochester, from 5.30pm.

D EC EMB ER 2 1 TO 24 – I L L AWA RRA D R I V E C H R I S T MA S L I G H T S Discover the magic of Illawarra’s Christmas lights. Join the community event and support local charities this festive season.

TON G A L A G I N G ER B R EA D H OUS E The Lions Club of Tongala life size gingerbread house display at the Tongala Kiosk.

CHRISTMAS EVENTS K YABRA M — 12 DAY S OF C H R I S T MAS G IV E AWAY S

DEC E M BE R 5 – ROCHESTER CHRISTMAS MARKET

The Kyabram Chamber of Commerce is hosting a 12 Days of Christmas promotion.

An evening Christmas market from 5pm to 8pm on Gillies and Mackay Sts, Rochester.

Designed to kick-start your Christmas shopping, the idea is that you purchase at participating Kyabram stores to enter the draw to win giveaways and Kyabram shopping vouchers.

DEC E M BE R 6 - GIRGARRE CHRISTMAS F ETE A community fete to celebrate everything Christmas from 5.30pm at Progress Park, Station St, Girgarre

Participating stores will display a 12 Days of Christmas poster on their windows in the lead-up to the event.

DEC E M BE R 7 — BUSH VERSE GROUP

NOVE M BE R 2 9 – R U S H WOR T H C H R I ST M A S M A RK E T

Bush verse, yarns and poetry featuring the Kyabram Bush Verse Group. Kyvalley Hall, 534 Scobie Rd, Kyvalley at noon.

Immerse yourself in festive cheer at the Rushworth Christmas art and craft market, a delightful social gathering at the Rushworth Shire Hall from 8.30am to 1pm.

DEC E M BE R 7 – S TANHOPE COMMUNIT Y MARKET

D ECE M BE R 4 – K YA B R A M B OCC E C LU B PA S TA N IG H T Join the Kyabram Bocce Club for a festive Italian feast with fresh, home-cooked meals and Raffa Bocce fun.

CON TACT U S If you would like your public Christmas event to be included, including any Christmas Day community events or church services, email your notice to us at editorial@riverineherald.com.au with Christmas 2025 in the subject line by COB Wednesday, December 5, 2025.

A Christmas market from 8.30am to 1pm along Birdwood Ave, Stanhope.

DEC E M BE R 18 – LOCKINGTON CHRISTMAS MARKET A celebration Christmas market from 5.30pm to 7.30pm at Lockington Lions Park, Lockington.