Me magazine may 2013

Issue 3 • May 2013

100% women only TEAM SPIRIT Why we love our sport

AID ABROAD Voluntourism: The new kid on the travel block

Journey of the heart A tribute to mothers

plus

th Heal ss Fitne es il Prof ore m And

VINTAGE GLAMOUR Modelling life on the past Fashion week

• Behind the scenes • Latest trends MAY 2013 |

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Welcome

There’s a common thread that weaves through our profile stories in this issue of ME: passion.

And it’s not passion of the romantic kind.

The women we meet all have passions that define their lifestyle and sense of self.

For example, our cover story: Anna Russell’s dress sense is derived from a love for classic cuts with history. So much so, that Anna was recently a runner-up in national glamour competition Miss Pinup Australia.

On our cover: Anna Russell.

Story page 14.

Photograph: Ray Sizer

Jessica Hill’s career in the equine industry has evolved from her deep-seated connection with horses and she admits it’s often an emotional ride.

Our Age of Reason panel shares the social and health benefits of their chosen team sports.

Editor Corinna Boldiston 5820 3183 corinna.boldiston@sheppnews.com.au Writers Jenna Bishop Kerri Thomson Laura Griffin Kaitlin Thals Rhiannon Gavalakis Sub-editors Wendy Russell Lisa Anderson Sandy Lloyd Kylie Garrett Graphic designer Teresa Lagozzino Photographers Shepparton News photography department Digital editor Lance Simpson Sales manager Aaron Brown 5820 3187 aaron.brown@sheppnews.com.au Marketing co-ordinator Teagan Hartley Published by Shepparton News PO Box 204, Shepparton, Victoria 3632 (03) 5820 3183 magazines@sheppnews.com.au www.mmg.com.au

Meanwhile, after successfully sculpting her own fitness journey, Donna Innes-Irons passionately informs women that it is never too late to get fit.

out of their comfort zones and helping others less fortunate.

Those with a passion for fashion should be intrigued by our behindthe-scenes look into L’Oreal Fashion Week and our cautionary feature on wearing our beloved high heels and wedge shoes.

And finally, there’s a timely tribute to motherhood as Mother’s Day approaches.

Those whose profiles we share (page 19-21) co-incidentally are all the same age, but at varying stages of motherhood, as are the younger mums in our community (page 22).

The joys and tribulations, and mysteries of their maternal roles, are all underlined by the innate passion to do their best for their children.

To all our mums, happy Mother’s Day.

We also share stories of teens and women whose inner happiness comes from stepping

– Corinna Boldiston Editor

Contents Voluntourism is taking off

Age of reason

5

Family connection maintained

10

Working with horses is a labour of love

12

Mad about ’50s style

14

page 30

Fashion forecast page 25

Motherhood is a job like no other 19 The Bridge offers support for young parents

22

Fashion: Glamour mostly front-of-house

24

Dr Google will see you now

Heels: Is the look worth the price? 26

page 38

Super food or not?

28

Rekindled friendship stands test of time

29

Fitness: Cardio tennis

32

Building a better you

33

Fine facial lines tackled with needling

34

Simple life is one of fulfilment

36

Never too early to plan for financial future

44

Debs: Tradition still has a place

40

Secret women’s business

46

Personal treasure troves

42

Reviews

46

Clarification: In our November issue we featured an article on Jamie Lea, the accomplished youth worker and music promoter, which was based on an interview with Jamie. Her parents, Maureen Kelvy and Richard Mazzochi, were not contacted for the article and it has come to our notice that parts of the article caused them hurt and embarrassment. We apologise for any offence it has caused them.

MAY 2013 |

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Voluntourism is taking off

Stories: Jenna Bishop Photography: Simon Bingham MAY 2013 | 5

There’s a new kid on the travel block – and it’s name is voluntourism.

Voluntourism – travelling to volunteer – is a unique way to experience a country with all the benefits selfless philanthropy can bring.

It’s specifically targeted at travellers who want to create a positive change in the world, where volunteers generally help with the development of local communities or work on conservation projects.

Research indicates there was an estimated 1.6 million volunteer tourists in 2008, working for more than 300 volunteer tourism organisations worldwide.

ME magazine spoke to four Goulburn Valley women about their decisions to pack their bags, jump on a plane to a developing country and immerse themselves in a completely different life.

Gaining a new perspective

Ashlee Weidenbach spent several weeks volunteering at schools in the Philippines.

An interest in social justice and humanitarian development led Murchison’s Ashlee Weidenbach on a volunteering trip which completely changed her perspective on poverty.

Ashlee, 21, combined her passion for education and women’s development with an alternative schoolies trip to Cebu, the capital of the Philippines in south-east Asia, in 2009.

She returned to the Philippines the next year as a youth leader on a similar trip.

The two-week trip saw Ashlee travel through the country visiting educational institutions from preschool through to university level.

She also spent days digging trenches in the dirt to help build a plumbing system for a recreation centre – despite knowing nothing about plumbing.

Part of the trip took Ashlee to a “rubbish dump community” where one of the tour guides had started a day care centre.

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| MAY 2013

Rubbish dump communities can be found on dump sites near wealthy cities, where the poor live in shanty-style huts and search through the rubbish to earn a meagre living.

The World Bank estimates that as many as one per cent of the urban population in developing countries, equivalent to roughly 15 million people, earn a living in the dumps.

“It was confronting, especially the first day we were there, but they’re all so happy,” she said.

“They’re so welcoming; you wouldn’t think that’s where they come from.”

Ashlee said there was a clearly distinguishable class divide between the people in the Philippines, and many of the poor, who receive little support from the government, are forced to miss the schooling experience.

“If you can’t afford it, you don’t go,” she said.

Poverty levels in the Philippines were

completely different to privileged Western countries, Ashlee said – in Australia being poor is not having a few things, whereas owning a few things in the Philippines makes you one of the wealthier citizens.

“The amount of struggle people have to go through to get ahead in life is so unfair,” she said.

The former Notre Dame student, who has a degree in international development studies, also participated in aid and development organisation Oaktree Foundation’s recent Roadtrip to End Poverty, collecting signatures to present at the road trip’s conclusion in Canberra.

Ashlee said volunteering was important to help gain perspective and understand how many people across the globe needed help.

“It’s changed the way I look at my life,” she said.

“It shows we take most things for granted ... it makes you realise how lucky we are.” n

Calypso and Dexter Archibald spent several weeks volunteering in Nepal.

Helping to make a difference in Nepal Technology most teenagers take for granted was a rare treat for rural Nepalese children when Shepparton teenagers Dexter and Calypso Archibald visited the country last January.

Goulburn Valley Grammar School students Dexter, 16 and Calypso, 18, spent three weeks in the Nepalese village of Garimudi working with teachers and children at the local school.

With help from their mother Julie Riley, a teacher who also volunteered in Nepal, the sisters spent time helping teachers set

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up computers in the school and teaching them how to use basic word processing technologies.

“It was just teaching them simple things like how to use the space bar and make paragraphs,” Dexter said.

They said many of the village’s students were likely to arrive in Kathmandu, the nearest city, for university without ever having used a computer.

With money Dexter and Calypso fundraised through a school casual clothes day, they

purchased four iPod Touches and 12 iPod Nanos to donate to the school Dexter said the aim of the iPods was to get teachers and children listening to English language podcasts, since English is a widelyspoken language in Nepal.

While the sisters had travelled overseas before, the trip to Nepal was the first time they had visited a Third World country.

But one of the outstanding highlights of their trip was seeing how technology could bring people together.

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Vietnam opens communication doors

Clockwise from top left: Calypso in Nepal’s countryside; Dexter and Calypso with students in one of the school’s three rooms; Some of the school’s children; Dexter helps a teacher navigate a computer.

Dexter and Calypso with two of the school’s students.

Calypso and Dexter taught the villagers how to use a photo booth app, where filters and special effects can be added to photos taken through the iPods and iPads.

“That was just a really good moment ... most of them would be really shy and it was good to break the ice,” Calypso said.

Dexter said many of the villagers were fascinated by the group of Westerners.

“We were the first foreign young people they’d seen,” she said.

“The whole village used to come out and watch us wash our hair,” Calypso said.

Another memorable moment which contrasted the lives of Australian and Nepalese children was when Dexter and Calypso were invited to local teenager Regina’s house.

Regina’s house was a two-hour walk from the village, and once they arrived, Dexter and Calypso helped out with Regina’s daily chores.

“She was grateful we were helping her,” Dexter said.

They were then offered a grapefruit as refreshment.

“It was obviously a treat that you bring out for guests,” Calypso said.

Afterwards, Regina insisted on walking the full two-hour journey to accompany the sisters back to the village, despite still needing to help prepare dinner for her father. n

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| MAY 2013

Above top to bottom: Discussion during class; Jessica with university student Hang on a trip to Hanoi; Jessica with students from one of her primary school classes; Jessica with university students Hang, Trang and Linh.

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Left to right: The New Horizons language centre in Quoc Oai where Jessica has been teaching; Making flashcards with one of the laminators which was donated.

“How I came to this decision I will never fully understand ... There comes a time in life where you just think to yourself, ‘What are you waiting for? Just do it!’”

“I have learnt the value of human interaction, the importance of family and the necessity of communication – not only to be heard but to be understood,” she said.

With these words as her springboard, Jessica Alampi decided to spend three months volunteering as an English teacher in the small town of Quoc Oai, which lies just 20 km from Vietnam’s capital Hanoi.

For Jessica, volunteering is important if it’s something you honestly believe in yourself.

Through the New Horizons language centre, a program run by the Foundation of Marists in Solidarity International, Jessica, 28, helps run hour-long classes in the mornings and afternoons teaching English.

The program aims to improve English language skills and reach out to disadvantaged youth, and provide them with education and employment opportunities to enhance sustainability within the local community.

Although the locals were cautious at first – there are only three foreigners in the town, including Jessica – they slowly adjusted to the town’s newest residents.

“The people in the streets no longer look at us through questioning eyes, but smile as we greet them and attempt to make conversation in Vietnamese,” Jessica said.

“When we arrive home there are times when we have children calling out to us ‘Jessica, Jessica’, wanting our attention so they can play games out on the street or borrow balls we have inside.”

Jessica said volunteering in Vietnam had taught her more about herself than any previous experiences.

“If you have a true passion to help others, no matter how big or small, in your local community or overseas, it’s important that your heart is really in it and you are doing something you believe in.”

Jessica, a teacher at Notre Dame College, took six months leave without pay and arrived in Quoc Oai on February 16.

“After teaching for seven years at Notre Dame College, I thought it was time for a change, time for me to challenge myself further and to live in a community where I could help out for a longer period of time,” she said.

The experience, which Jessica is sharing with brother Geoff, who runs the program, and fellow volunteer Sergio, has created some memorable moments, including sharing meals and meeting new and familiar faces in the markets.

“Most of all, it is the moments when the locals remind us of our work as volunteers that always catches me by surprise and makes me realise the impact we have here,” Jessica said.

“Just simply joking around with the high school students and of course our lovely administrator Mr Khai – who seems to be the only person who understands Australian humour!” n

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Drinks with the girls

Family connection

maintained ME caught up with sisters Dianna and Lynn, and also Marg and Gina, who are cousins to Mandy, and all are friends with surrogate family members Ann-Marie and Rita.

As a group, they are vivacious and loud and, as one husband points out, “they’re mad!”

What they share is a commitment to preserving a traditional family connection that all experienced during their Italian upbringing.

DianNa:

All the cousins used to get together, but once Aunty Joan passed away we didn’t catch-up.

Lynn:

We wanted to keep the family tradition of regularly staying in touch, so about three years ago our generation of girl cousins – along with the ring-ins – decided to get it happening.

Marg:

At the start of each year someone is in charge of the roster, which I have had my turn and it’s the last Friday of each month.

Ann-Marie: Recently my daughter, my only child, went to uni in Bendigo and it was hard dropping her off, we cried.

The group got together that night for me and that’s how we support each other.

Rita:

I have been adjusting to family life, working full-time as a teacher with two young daughters and a house husband. Plus, a new addition to our family, Eddie the dog!

Marg:

Eddie tried to eat my shoe!

DiaNna:

We love laughing together, remembering the good old days, sharing food, and sometimes we are silly and dress up or go out for dinner – it’s never boring.

Gina:

We always talk about our kids. Di and I have older daughters whereas Lynn’s are younger and we tell her “Just you wait”.

Mandy:

It’s never the same, always different and someone’s always got something to say.

Lynn:

And we always chat about finding a man for Marg.

Gina:

Generally we ask each other for advice and catch up on the ‘goss’.

Lynn:

Marg:

We are all Italian and talk over each other, that’s what we do.

Marg:

We feel each other’s emotions and often all cry together over someone’s situation.

Mandy:

DiaNna:

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| MAY 2013

(The group roars with laughter at this proclamation.)

The family are Essendon football club supporters and we are trying to organise a girls’ trip to watch Essendon play – but in style, in a corporate box.

If there is anyone out there who wants to sponsor a box, feel free!

It’s on our bucket list.

Interview: Kerri Thomson Photography: Simon Bingham

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Secca sisters: Dianna Spencer and Lynn Ahmet.

Sozzi sisters: Marg and Gina Sozzi.

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Cousins: Marg Sozzi, Mandy Bilney, Lynn Ahmet, Gina Sozzi and Dianna Spencer.

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Working with horses is a

labour of love Girgarre East’s Jessica Hill loves horses, big and small.

“There are tears, but then it is wonderful seeing other people enjoy riding them.”

She breaks in ponies, rides racehorses and has also worked with polo ponies.

Each horse takes a different amount of time to break in and educate, but on average Jessica needs between six and eight weeks.

In the Ridden Australian Pony class, Naruni Park Class – or “Keith” as he is affectionately known – beat much more seasoned geldings and mares.

Jessica said no matter the breed, individual horses had their own personalities and it was important to make a connection to work effectively with them.

“Every horse I work with I fall in love with.

I’m not good at letting them go, even if they’re not mine!” Jessica said.

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| MAY 2013

“

Every horse I work with I fall in love with. I’m not good at letting them go, even if they’re not mine!

“

The 22-year-old’s aptitude for getting the best out of a young horse was recognised when a stallion she broke in and educated won the National Ridden Australian Pony of the Year at the National Pony of the Year Show in Sydney in March.

Jessica is now educating her own ponies and those of clients on her mother’s Earlsley Park Stud. She said seeing the animals transformed so they were soft and could easily be ridden was rewarding.

She also works afternoon shifts in the boning room at HW Greenham and Sons’ Tongala abattoir. Three days a week, she is at Echuca Racecourse from 6 am where she rides Daryl Archard’s horses. Other mornings, she helps milk her family’s 180 cows.

Jessica loves the adrenaline rush of riding racehorses and said if she wasn’t working with horses she would be a motorbike rider or a wake-boarder.

She also tried her hand at hairdressing and began an apprenticeship in Geelong.

But her desire to work with horses was stronger than working with hair.

“I love horses’ intelligence. They take on everything you give them and you never stop learning,” she said.

She worked polo ponies at Yaloak Estate and then racehorses at Eliza Park, Brett Cavanough Racing at Albury and David Hayes’ Lindsay Park Racing at Euroa. Jessica then returned to live with her family, who had moved from Meredith to Girgarre East.

Training ponies is only one thing on Jessica’s schedule.

Jessica said despite riding horses since she could sit up, she was lucky to have never had

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Jessica Hill with Australian Pony stallion Naruni Park Class.

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“He’s 23 this year. He carried me through many crosscountry events,” she said.

“He was my first hack and the best thing that ever happened to me – now I ride racehorses.”

“

“

I love horses’ intelligence. They take on everything you give them . . .

Jessica has sacrificed many a sleep-in to feed and ride horses, but would not change it for the world.

“Mum says it kept me out of trouble because she’d say to me, ‘You can go to the show in the morning or the party the night before, but not both’, and I’d always pick the horses.”

Jessica hopes to continue working with horses and her goal is to grow her educating and breaking business. n

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Mad about

’50s

style

Anna Russell was born to wear the classic and glamorous clothing of the fabulous 1950s.

A love for clothing runs in her blood – her parents hold several costume parties each year, and as a child she spent days dressing up in her parents’ clothing collection.

For Anna, vintage clothing is all about wearing clothes that have seen so much history.

“They’ve been through so many interesting times,” she said.

Story: Jenna Bishop Photography: This page Ray Sizer

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| MAY 2013

Photography: Wendy Russell

“They were really special dresses made for special occasions,” she said.

“There’s something nice about wearing pieces that have been handed down in the family.”

Anna, who grew up in Shepparton and is now living in Melbourne, said she always had a penchant for the era of timeless and elegant fashion.

“In particular with the ‘40s and ‘50s, it was such a glamorous era because you dolled yourself up, with the hair, the full

face of make-up, the cinched waist, the full skirt and the gloves,” she said.

“The style was just really beautiful.”

“

There’s something nice about wearing pieces that have been handed down in the family.

“

Two of her first authentic vintage items were ’50s dresses made for her mother’s cousins that were saved by Anna’s great aunt, which Anna believes would have been expensive in the post-World War II era.

The resurgence of glamorous ‘50s-style fashion is a result of the increasing popularity of television shows with ‘50s and ‘60s styling such as Mad Men, and the glamour styles of the ‘20s and ‘30s in the series such as Boardwalk Empire, Downtown Abbey and forthcoming movie The Great Gatsby.

Anna’s passion for ‘50s glamour led her to

enter Miss Pinup Australia, a competition celebrating women of all shapes and sizes with a passion for vintage glamour.

Under her stage name Vienne Rose, Anna was named the winner of the Victorian Miss Classic Pinup 2013 category in March and was named Miss Classic Pinup runner-up at the national grand final on April 20. “(The competition) really does help grow self-confidence,” she said.

A background studying photography, styling and history has helped Anna create her vintage look.

She has also spent hours watching YouTube videos learning make-up techniques and hairstyles, such as victory rolls.

>>>

MAY 2013 |

15

“

You have to recreate the era and you have to make the audience believe it.

“

Photograph: Wendy Russell

While learning the complex hairstyles took patience and time, Anna said it got easier each time she tried and she could now put together a hairstyle in 30 minutes.

“In the beginning, I got so frustrated and pulled it out a thousand times,” she said.

Anna said for the Miss Pinup competition, she also had to learn the walk and talk of women in the ‘50s for the performance sections of the competition.

“You have to recreate the era and you have to make the audience believe it,” she said.

Anna’s styling background was particularly helpful in creating the props she used in the competition – a giant tiered layer cake, a kissing booth and a human target wheel – each handmade by Anna for her vintage circus theme.

“I had fun making them,” she said.

Photograph: Cheech Sanchez

Above: Anna was named Miss Classic Pinup in the Victorian state finals earlier this year.

As a hobby, authentic vintage clothing and accessories can be expensive, but luckily Anna sees it as an investment and something to one day pass onto her future daughters.

“If it makes me happy, I’m happy to spend money on it,” she said. n

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With the colder weather comes the chance to wear accessories that are functional and fashionable. Cute patterned scarves, knits, boots and cosy beanies are all perfect for rugging up against the cold.

Layered clothing and tights – brilliant for disguising that extra Tim Tam. Also, wearing pants, leggings and tights, you don’t have to shave your legs regularly! It’s a win all around.

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Winter food in general is amazing. Think golden roast potatoes, juicy roast lamb, stews and soups. Mmmmmm.

Hot chocolate. ‘Tis the season for indulging, and what better way than with a glass of rich hot chocolate (marshmallows optional). It brings back a sense of nostalgia, and the world seems a better place when you’re drinking hot chocolate.

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18

| MAY 2013

Story: Kerri Thomson

Motherhood

is a job like no other As Mother’s Day approaches, ME meets mums who share thoughts about their maternal roles. They agree motherhood is a journey of the heart, rampant with highs and lows, a juggling act worthy of a clown suit but through it all, you will never find someone who loves you more.

Annmarie Michel Age: 43 Occupation: Childcare Children: Riley, 17, Bailey, 15, Jordan, 10

What does being a mother mean to you?

On a personal note

So many things, really. Being a mother of three sporty boys is fun, rewarding, thrilling, demanding, challenging and very busy. But so far it’s been an amazing journey filled with incredible highs and a few lows.

I’ve been happily married for nearly 20 years and we have three amazing boys that I’m proud to say actually like their parents most of the time (well, when they get what they want, anyway).

Motherhood can be one of the most rewarding jobs, but it can also be one of the hardest, especially when you get the mother guilt thing, when you feel you just aren’t delivering no matter what you do.

This verse was sent to me by a friend and it has been on my fridge door for a couple of years. I love it.

I believe you get out of your children what you put into them.

What stage of motherhood are you at?

My promise to my children – as long as I live – I am your parent first, your friend second.

I guess I would say the middle stage; our three boys are between the ages of 10 and 17. It’s a challenging stage for me, I’m so much better with younger children.

I will stalk you, flip out on you, lecture you, drive you insane, be your worst nightmare and hunt you down like a bloodhound when needed because I LOVE YOU!

I see this as the guidance and guidelines stage as well as promoting independence. I’m careful to avoid being too strict, or too lax, and I often find it difficult to strike a balance between the two.

When you understand that, I will know that you are a responsible adult.

It can be a testy time for all involved, as my husband Gerard and I strive to “do the right thing” for our boys while predictably enduring the turmoil that accompanies these hormonal years.

You will NEVER find someone who loves, prays, cares and worries about you more than I do!

If you don’t hate me once in your life – I am not doing my job properly.

MAY 2013 |

19

What does being a mother mean to you?

Being a mother means having kids in your world, whether they are your own or someone else’s. The noise, the mayhem, tantrums, the games, laughter and camaraderie that comes with a big family is precious, although not always unique. Dealing with the highs and lows, the good with the bad, it is all in a day’s work.

It means having a home where everyone feels comfortable, and anyone can come and play or stay.

There have been plenty of extra plates dished up at mealtimes at the last minute. The kids know they don’t need to ask anymore, they just know if someone is at our house at dinner time, they can expect to be fed. And if you are from out of town, you can expect to be put up for the night. I love how my children feel comfortable knowing this home is always open to their friends.

Lisa Garcia Age:

43 Occupation: Waitress/student Children: Jake, 19, Katey, 18, Tom, 17, Brady, 13, Austin, 10

My children are my life, and as they grow into young adults I am often in awe of how they became who they are.

What stage of motherhood are you at?

My eldest son is about to turn 20 and has recently moved out the family home and has set up house with his girlfriend in Albury.

My daughter has just turned 18 (Year 12), another son 17 (Year 11),

the second-youngest is 13 (Year 8), my youngest son is 10 (Year 4) and still loves to cuddle up on my chair with me when we read together.

It is really a privilege to have my eldest son feel comfortable enough to ask my advice about “girl stuff” and then five minutes later be reading a story or putting a Band-Aid on the youngest. It’s like the best of both worlds.

On a personal note I recently had major heart surgery, and something like that makes one step back and take a long look at oneself and the loved ones around you. A lot of ‘what ifs’ circle around in your head, a few regrets, and a few moments of despair (actually, a lot). But I believe the one thing that keeps a mum going is the continuing urge to care for and be there for her family.

Whether it was the need to be home and well for my son’s first day of high school, helping my daughter prepare for VCE, or to get strong enough to drive my youngest to his new primary school – I’m not sure. I just know these things are powerful enough to get a mum over the line.

My kids are often crazy, wild, even mixed up ... but they are the reason I’m still here.

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| MAY 2013

Name: Leanne Coote Age: 43 Occupation: Integration aide Children: Chris, 15, Hannah, 11, and Caleb, 6

What does being a mother mean to you?

mistakes and I am learning as

It’s all about love. I’ve got a lot of love to give and that’s why I’ve started to do foster care.

Even if kids have challenging behaviours they still need to be hugged and deserve to know they are loved. A mum needs to be a good juggler; I drop three kids off at different schools and then get myself to work – it’s a constant balance.

love in our home to get us by.

What stage of motherhood are you at?

mum, back-up mum, second

Even though I’ve been a mum for 15 years, in a lot of ways I’m a beginner. I have two children and a foster child who has been with us for 1 ½ years. It would be great if our kids came with individual instruction books because one book doesn’t fit all. I will make

many kids in Shepparton from

I go but I hope there is enough

On a personal note I am currently a single mum and as all my kids have an Indigenous heritage I try my best to encourage them to stay connected with their community and culture.

I feel in a way I am a surrogate mum, adopted mum to so my Cub Scout and student involvement. I have always had a lot of kids at home, and last Mother’s Day I had five children stay the night before and I got to celebrate Mother’s Day with five kids – I love that.

Jess Holmes Age: 43 Occupation: Self-employed Children: Gretel, 8, Billy, 7, Henry, 5 What does being a mother mean to you?

and Henry, 5. They are now all at school

I am so glad I had the opportunity to become a mum. You never know if it will happen. It’s a tough job, making sure you are always doing the best for your kids, guiding them through the different stages of their lives, helping them to be the best they can. They teach you so much about yourself as well. It is so rewarding. I have three amazing children who are all very different and offer so much in their own right. They make you laugh, drive you crazy and make you cry on so many levels – emotions not fully tapped into until you become a mother.

motherhood. I haven’t quite got to the

What stage of motherhood are you at?

husband Paul and my kids for making

I have three children – Gretel, 8, Billy, 7

I love you all.

so that takes you to another stage of “doing coffee with the girlfriends” stage yet, but am hoping to get the other crazy elements of my life under control in school hours and not have to stay up late to get all the jobs done. I do the books for our business – Quality Teams – so that also keeps me busy.

We do a lot of juggling as mothers, in fact I think I may buy a clown outfit.

On a personal note Motherhood is wonderful. I thank my me the mum I am.

MAY 2013 |

21

Story: Kaitlin Thals Photography: Bianca Mibus

The Bridge antenatal program facilitator Peta Van Popering, expectant mum Brooke Newman, The Bridge young pregnancy and parenting programs team leader Jenny Cook, and Goulburn Valley Health student midwife Yolande Kerr.

The Bridge offers support for

YOUNG PARENTS Not all pregnant young women in Greater Shepparton know what lies behind the doors at The Bridge.

People aged 12 to 25 seeking support, guidance or just someone to chat to during and after their pregnancy can find those things at the Shepparton-based youth service.

in the mothers’ group, we could see there was a real gap in them attending antenatal services and education, so we did a research project for 10 months and that (the antenatal program) was the outcome,’’ Mrs Cook said.

‘‘When they come in they will feel more

The Bridge offers pregnancy testing and options counselling, an antenatal group, mothers’ group, individual support workers and mentors, and in-home support for a couple and their newborn.

GV Health maternity services manager Bernadette Wardle said Shepparton was among the Victorian towns with the largest numbers of young mothers, so there was an urgency to make sure these needs were met.

‘‘It’s about giving young women choice about

She said the service was fortunate the antenatal program had recurrent funding.

Currently there are 20 women who attend the group every Wednesday. ‘‘When we were talking to young mums

22

| MAY 2013

“

It’s about giving young women choice about where they meet with their midwife . . .

“

The Bridge’s young pregnancy and parenting programs team leader Jenny Cook said the Antenatal Care and Education Program had been supporting young women in the community for eight years and ran in conjunction with Goulburn Valley Health Midwifery.

BERNADETTE WARDLE

Once a week a midwife from GV Health joins the antenatal group to meet the women and talk about their experience at the hospital.

The group also has a tour through the maternity department at the hospital.

familiar and probably see some of the midwives they met in the group,’’ Mrs Wardle said.

where they meet with their midwife and making them feel comfortable.’’

Mrs Cook and Mrs Wardle are on a local steering committee – Greater Shepparton Adolescent Pregnancy and Parenting Partnership – with other key figures in the community.

The committee strengthens and improves support and services for young people in Greater Shepparton.

The Bridge is at 127 Welsford St, Shepparton; phone 5831 2390. Goulburn Valley Health is located in Graham St, Shepparton; phone 5832 2322. n

HArMONy BAllS

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Hayley Attwell and son Kruze Collins at 2 weeks old.

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Young pregnant women say support is essential in bridging the unknown and enjoying their pregnancy.

They agree that support programs offered by The Bridge in Shepparton have enabled them to learn about their pregnancy and interact with others in a similar situation.

When ME caught up with Amber she was 35 weeks into her pregnancy, and was glowing. ‘‘We learn about a lot and it’s really helpful, like what foods we should eat and what to expect,’’ Amber said.

Hayley said.

When Shepparton’s Brooke Newman, 24, found out she was pregnant, she felt alone and depressed.

“

We learn about a lot and it’s really helpful . . .

“

Shepparton’s Amber Fairman, 15, has attended the antenatal program since she was 25 weeks pregnant.

AMBER FAIRMAN

‘‘I found out about the program through my school.’’

‘‘I don’t have my family around,

Mooroopna’s Hayley Atwell, 16, was cradling newborn son Kruze Collins, two weeks old.

family, and I was scared and

Hayley began the antenatal program when she was 12 weeks pregnant and now attends the mums’ group once a week.

at GV Health (Goulburn Valley

‘‘I made a lot of friends and it got me out of the house for the day – it was really good,’’

‘‘I don’t feel so alone anymore,

I only have my boyfriend’s nervous,’’ Brooke said.

Harmony balls are used for many things including relaxation and meditation. The tone of the Harmony Balls are soothing to the soul and helps promote inner balance and harmony. The balls are often worn by expectant mothers to reassure their unborn baby. Newborn babies recognise the sound of their mother’s Harmony Ball when they are born.

Often given by best friends as a keepsake to represent their timeless friendship.

Harmony gives you a sense of peace, relaxation and happiness and Ball represents unity and completeness.

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‘‘I was speaking to a midwife Health) and I just told her that I felt alone being pregnant, and she told me about The Bridge. if I need to talk to someone I

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just come in here and talk.’’ n MAY 2013 |

23

Fashion

Glamour mostly front-of-house News journalist Rhiannon Gavalakis spent a day volunteering at the L’Oreal Melbourne Fashion Festival and shares why it was an experience she will never forget.

The world of fashion is like an iceberg – what you see is just the tip.

and there is no take two for the real thing, everyone needs to get it right.

Underneath are all the important little rituals – like taping the soles of your shoes.

The glamour of the runway relies on the volunteers who assist backstage – and my glimpse of the hectic atmosphere had me thankful I was working front-of-house.

Dreaded by volunteers, this keeps lavish heels pristine during their runway walk so they can be returned to designers following the show.

Stepping into this alluring world, I was treated to a high-fashion runway show for one.

Designs from Collette Dinnigan, Scanlan and Theodore and Akira graced the catwalk in front of me.

I had, of course, stumbled through the wrong entrance and the runway was a rehearsal for the main show that night – but it was an intoxicating start to an eventful day.

The true heart of the action lays behind the scenes in a frenzy of fabrics, hemlines and high fashion.

Backstage the adrenaline levels run higher than the skyscraper stilettos.

Model-dressing and outfit changes are timed to the second.

Fast-paced rehearsals are an understatement

Each show is sponsored by an Australian magazine and I was part of a small team at the Vogue and InStyle runways.

Rhiannon Gavalakis (right) with Dulux promotional workers and a fellow volunteer.

We frantically covered 2000 seats with gift bags for each show, ensured the venue was pristine and greeted the exquisite fashion elite as they arrived.

The beauty of the models was magnified up close – I’d seen them in magazines but there’s nothing like being there in person.

I had the pleasure of meeting an international face of L’Oreal – Barbara Palvin.

Megan Gale and Rachael Finch were among the crowd I was seating and although I didn’t meet them, it was thrilling knowing they were there.

The atmosphere was electric.

Then the lights went out, the music came on and the show began.

L’Oreal Paris spokesmodels Megan Gale T and Barbara Palvin.

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Fashion forecast

SCARLET FEVER

Bianca Spender

MONOCHROMATIC MANIC

Maticevski

LEATHER WORK

A strong runway contender – monochromatic dressing is the latest trend to take hold of the fashion elite. Working with a single colour scheme, designers favoured strong shades from head to toe. For us mere mortals, ease into the trend with neutrals or deep shades of maroon – creating a slim silhouette.

Featuring in nearly every designer’s collection, leather is here to stay. It cropped up in panels on dresses, skirts and pants. No longer reserved for bikers – whole outfits with leather on leather were also a feature of the festival.

An epidemic at the L’Oreal runways – this colour of the moment is daringly bold. Wear this passionate shade in various depths with the only accessory you’ll need – confidence.

Bianca Spender

Carla Zampatti

Sheer fabrics have scenestealing appeal.

Get swept away in the spell of barely there panels and floaty silhouettes. The runway couldn’t get enough of this understated and elegant look.

Camilla

PRINT IT

SHEER MAGIC Collette Dinnigan

Floral, oriental or tribal – prints ruled the runway. Glamour-infused graphics and geometric shapes were showcased, and with this trend more is more. Twin-sets break all the rules – make a statement and wear two or even three pieces of the same print at the one time.

GET TEXTURED The runway was a mash-up of textures – quilted, distressed, feathered and leathered. Rich metallics shone in the spotlight but it was flirty lace that had the runway in a whirl. It’s classic, stylish and sophisticated, and if it’s not already in your wardrobe for Autumn/ Winter 2013, it should be.

MAY 2013 |

25

Is the look

worth the price?

Most women love high heels, whether they be wedges, stilettos or pumps, but do their feet love them as much?

Lakeside Podiatry owner Michelle Teague likes high heels as much as any other women and said simple measures could lessen the impact they had on feet and the rest of the body.

over time, which can cause other muscle problems.

High heels raise the foot at an angle that gives the illusion of longer legs. Michelle said putting feet at this angle put a lot of weight on the ball of the foot.

Mrs Teague said wedges were better than stilettos because the wider base spread the wearer’s body weight better over the foot, instead of just the heel and ball. Wedges tend to be more stable than their thinner-heeled counterparts, which reduces the work the foot, ankle and even knee muscles must do.

If the foot slides forward in the shoe or it has a pointed toe, it can put pressure on nails and make them sore.

“Wearing high heels can also upset ankles and knees and even people’s backs because the body’s centre of gravity is pushed forward,” Mrs Teague said.

The podiatrist suggests wearing high heels for occasions.

“Enjoy them, but I wouldn’t run a marathon in them.”

Mrs Teague also suggests people stretching out their calves after wearing high-heeled shoes to avoid the muscle shortening 26

| MAY 2013

Straps or other fasteners can also make shoes more stable.

“

“

This can lead to problems including bunions and also makes the muscles along the foot’s arch work harder, which can result in arch pain. ME has even heard stories of women developing stress fractures from wearing high heels too often.

Not all high heels are made equal when it comes to foot support.

Enjoy them, but I wouldn’t run a marathon in them.

MICHELLE TEAGUE

Mrs Teague said a shoe’s height also played a big role in its standing with podiatrists.

“The higher you go, the more the toe has been bent,” she said.

She suggests wearing more supportive, footfriendly shoes in day-to-day life and if people must wear dressy shoes for work, they could choose a low wedge.

“You only get one pair of feet, so you should take care of them,” Mrs Teague said. n

An x-ray of Michelle Stevens’ right ankle shows the two screws that are holding the bones together.

Story: Laura Griffin Photography: Bianca Mibus Interview: Kerri Thomson Main photograph: Julie Mercer

Did you know...

Heels have a high price About a year ago, as I was striding along in a groovy pair of wedges, I found myself wincing at each step.

Only 34% of Australian adults would report to the police if they were aware that a child was being sexually abused.

I tried to ignore the jab of pain emanating from where my second toe joined my left foot, but after a couple of weeks realised hobbling along just wasn’t cutting it in the style stakes.

What would you do?

Stopping child sexual abuse relies on adults taking action if they believe a child is being abused.

For support and information ring GV CASA.

Off I went to the podiatrist who, after declaring it looked like a stress fracture, asked me if I ran marathons. Reeling in horror – running in a heel is so undignified – I said no. “So, you wear high heels a lot?” she asked.

After confessing that was indeed the case, she lectured me for some time on the need to care for my feet, sent me off for X-rays and suggested I pad the area to reduce jarring.

But the really bad news: no more high heels!

I’m now a paid up member of the sensible shoe brigade; on those rare occasions I lapse into old habits and slip on a fabulous pair of platforms, I’m left with an aching reminder that my days of kicking up my high heels are well and truly over.

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Trip ends in a disaster Shepparton’s Michelle Stevens was in Adelaide to watch her daughter Ebony Evans play in an interstate netball tournament when high heels tripped up her plans.

“I was heading out for dinner with a girlfriend. I was walking down steps in sandal wedges. Their straps were loose. I was reading a text message when I twisted on my left ankle and then fell with all my weight on my right ankle, twisting it outwards.

“I broke the bone off the inside of my ankle, which required two screws; broke the bone on the outside of my leg, which required a plate and six screws; and broke the bone on the back of my leg, which healed itself.

“I was in hospital for a week and could not put weight on the joint for three months. It will take at least 12 months to recover and it will probably never be the same.

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“It didn’t hurt when it happened – it only hurt when the ambulance moved my legs. When they lifted up my jeans there were two bumps.

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“My mum and dad had to drive over to Adelaide to come and pick me up because I couldn’t fly.

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“I can now predict when it is going to rain because my ankle aches.”

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MAY 2013 |

27

Story: Jenna Bishop

Super food

or not?

They claim to fight cancer, help prevent heart disease, help manage cholesterol levels and leap tall buildings in a single bound, but are super foods really as super as they seem?

The new fad for the health conscious and seekers of miracles, super foods are taking the world by storm, with promises to detoxify, help slow the ageing process and ward off illness.

Super foods are generally foods rich in nutrients such as vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, omega 3s and phytochemicals compared to their kilojoule content.

Traditional super foods such as yoghurt, broccoli and blueberries are enjoying a resurgence in modern diet popularity, along with new fad foods such as goji berries, kale, chia seeds and quinoa.

Goulburn Valley Health accredited practising dietician Olivia Kelly said that while super foods could offer more vitamins, minerals and protection against some health conditions than ordinary foods, they are better included as part of a balanced diet.

Olivia warned that super foods shouldn’t be used as substitutes for a complete healthy diet and exercise.

“People often include these products to make up for things they are not doing – like eating healthy and being physically active,” Olivia said.

However, trying to include some super foods in your diet could kick-start healthy eating habits.

“Trying to include super foods in your diet can be beneficial for general health as it encourages you to choose healthier options and limit processed high sugar, high saturated fat foods,” Olivia said.

“If the rest of the diet is made up of highly processed junk food, then drinking aloe vera juice or a handful of blueberries is not going to work miracles and lead to a long healthy life!”

Olivia cautioned people to be wary of the hype surrounding some foods with the super food label, with more research needed into the claims of some super foods, including goji berries, noni juice and aloe vera juice.

“Most of these super foods are not dangerous, but their nutrient content and health benefits are over exaggerated,” she said.

Often it can be more beneficial for health and the hip pocket to get nutrients from a variety of foods across the five food groups.

Goji berries, for example, cost $8 per 150 g

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This is not a definitive list of super foods, but some of those that appear frequently include: • Oily fish, such as sardines and salmon – rich in omega 3 fatty acids.

• Tomatoes – high in lycopene.

• Olive oil – rich in antioxidants and good fats.

• Brazil nuts – high in selenium.

• Berries – high in antioxidants.

• Broccoli – high in antioxidants and a good source of folate.

• Beans – high in fibre and antioxidants.

• Natural yoghurt – contains good bacteria to fight bad bacteria.

• Tea: black or green – high in antioxidants. and at least 1-2 cups of popular super seed chia would need to be consumed per week to get the full, long-term benefits.

“In reality, these foods should be seen as nutrient-rich foods that, along with healthy eating and regular physical activity, support our bodies and help to prevent illness,” Olivia said. n

Rekindled

friendship stands test of time Di Wilson and Noeleen Stewart were best girlfriends at Shepparton High school.

Then the passage into adulthood intruded, and time and distance eroded their alliance. A chance meeting in their home town rekindled their fond friendship.

Di Wilson (nee Hall) I didn’t have a clue where most of my high school girlfriends lived, but wished to see them.

I remember it so well, about five years ago. It was a hot day after school pick-up, and I had my three kids in tow, walking across the Wyndham St pedestrian crossing. I got to the middle and I heard this voice that immediately stopped me in my tracks. The voice was familiar, and as I spun around the recognition of who it belonged to prompted me to shyly call out “Noeleen? “ (in case I was wrong).

The kids didn’t share my enthusiasm of running into Noeleen, so we arranged to catch up and I said I would try to contact some of our girlfriends. I rang one girl, who got in contact with another girl, who knew where to contact another girl – and on the night we just couldn’t get things out quick enough, talking about the old times.

When you have missed 20-plus years there is so much to catch up on, lots of old memories, and now we are filling in the gaps – weddings, babies etc.

No-one is ever going to understand the memories and relate to how funny our stories are between one another. School is such an important time, as you start as a little girl and change into a woman.

So much is experienced during this special time – from no boobs to bras, boyfriends, broken hearts and rebellious adventures.

When Noeleen plans to visit Shepparton, she simply emails me with the dates she will be in town, and we pick up exactly where we left off.

Noeleen Stewart (nee Griffiths) I haven’t lived in Australia since 1993, as I have settled in Seattle in the United States with my Scottish husband. I was tangled in an immigration situation, and for 10 years I chose not to leave and not take the risk of being deported or refused entry back into the States. My husband, business and my life was there.

During this time the worst thing I ever experienced was when my father died and I wasn’t able to go back to Shepparton and be with my family – it was horrible. There was no chance to reconnect with high school girlfriends, either. Finally the immigration hiccup was sorted and on a visit home I encountered one of my best girlfriends from school, Di. I was walking across the street when I heard someone call my name. As I looked up I could see a girl walking toward me and it wasn’t until she took off her sunglasses, and, oh my god, it was Di! Although we hadn’t seen each other for 21 years, we could have stood there for hours and talked. I believe it’s a sign of true friendship when you can reconnect with friends and talk non-stop without running out of things to say.

I was so excited to see her. I mentioned I was going out for dinner and asked her to come along and Di suggested contacting our other girlfriends from school, and I was all for bringing them along!

We catch up when I’m back, and even after all these years we know our secrets are safe in the friends’ ‘cone of silence’.

MAY 2013 |

29

AGE

of reason Rita Hanslow, 77 The silent generation 1925 – 1945 I love playing tennis because during the 70 years I have been playing I have made long-lasting friendships, exercised and enjoyed the relaxation.

A lesson I have learnt playing sport is that all parts of the body get a workout. Playing tennis keeps me fit and healthy. During my many, many years of playing my only injury was a broken wrist – and I continued playing with the plaster on!

My most memorable sporting moment would be playing in the same tennis team with my son Wayne, granddaughter Bree and grandson Lukas. In 2006, I received The Rose Award in recognition of many happy years (60) of competition tennis with Shepparton and District Ladies Midweek Tennis Association.

Age is no barrier when it comes to playing team sports.

ME asked sportswomen from five generations about what draws them to their game.

Anne Matthews, 64 Baby Boomers 1946 – 1964 I love playing lawn bowls because of the many places I go to around the Goulburn Valley area. It’s just lovely to meet all the different ladies in the district, and if any of the ladies are in Shepparton shopping and I run into them, I stop and ask them how they’re bowling.

I have learnt from playing sport that in a team sport I am a part of that team and not just an individual. In pennant bowls I play in a team of four, and I never want to let the team down and I try to do my best.

My most memorable sporting moment was when I won the B-grade club championship by one shot, on the last bowl … this was a surprise as I consider myself to be a mediocre player.

The biggest sporting challenge at my age is to keep doing my best. I had never played sport until six years ago and only started so I wasn’t a bowls widow!

The biggest sporting challenge at my age is to keep playing. Tennis is a marvellous social outlet for me and I still have the enthusiasm to play.

Colleen Phillips, 46 Generation X 1965 – 1981 I love playing golf because I find it quite difficult and challenging, but mostly I love that I can play with my Dad, husband and girlfriends. Playing golf is quite social and we have a laugh – thanks to the frustration of the game.

I have learnt from playing sport that I am a competitive person. I enjoy being active and fit but mostly I have met many people, formed great friendships – and playing golf keeps me in regular contact with them.

My most memorable sporting moment is every time I go for a round of golf with my Dad. It’s a game we can play together and a special time we share – it’s fun, entertaining and priceless.

I recently played in a Shepp Bears fun day in which we won lots of great prizes (it was Ambrose so I didn’t have to do much).

The biggest sporting challenge for me at my age is coming back from a knee reconstruction, which I had put off for 20 years. It was hard to get mentally motivated and focus on the physical effort to get my fitness back – but it has been well worth it.

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| MAY 2013

Interviews: Kerri Thomson

Millie Osborne, 29 Generation Y 1981 – 1989 I love playing netball because I really enjoy being a part of a team and I have made so many wonderful friends for life, like Ash Guerra and Nicci Jeffrey and my amazing partner Jarrod Maskell.

I have learnt from playing sport that what you put in is what you will receive. I believe that in a team sport it isn’t about you, it’s what you give to others in your team. This is rewarding, because I and my teammates become a unit and rely on each another. If you have unity in your team, I believe you will be successful.

My most memorable sporting moment was when I was 20 and played my first A-grade game at Congupna Football Netball Club, followed by two years of winning Best and Fairest. I never thought I was good enough or had the skills but I was given the opportunity.

The biggest sporting challenge at my age is a balance of work and play. I work full-time at a local accounting firm and also run a bookkeeping business from home after hours, so time management is really difficult for me.

Kirrilly Gollan, 19 Generation Z 1990 – now I love playing hockey because it has given me great skills for everyday life such as teamwork, initiative and confidence. It keeps me fit, training and playing games. Also I have met some amazing people who have become friends for life.

I have learnt from playing sport that you need to be able to work well in a team, and persistence is a big key factor as you can muck up but you need to hold your head up high and keep trying over and over again.

My most memorable sporting moment was in my last year of playing junior U-17 GV representative hockey. Our team won the grand final at the Junior Country Week championships, which GV had not won for years. The atmosphere when the final siren blew was electric and infectious.

The biggest sporting challenge at my age is the motivation to keep attending trainings and playing the games mentally and physically. There is the constant threat of an injury occurring at any time, plus the feeling of wanting to try a different sport.

MAY 2013 |

31

Story: Jenna Bishop

Cardio

HIT

Cardio tennis players Simone Smith, Michelle Collins and Wendy Darveniza.

You don’t have to be Rafael Nadal or Maria Sharapova to get the physical benefits of tennis after its lesser-known cousin, international hit cardio tennis, was launched in Shepparton recently.

Keystone Tennis founder and professional cardio tennis coach Luke Dixon said the sport had only been in the Goulburn Valley for about six months and the reception had already been “fantastic”.

Get the

Luke said some members of the group had taken to the sport so much that they arrived for practice in rain, hail or shine.

out of

He said one of the important things about cardio tennis was its ability to cater for any fitness level.

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Cardio tennis, a group workout set to fast tempo music, is designed to create a highenergy session to increase fitness levels.

| MAY 2013

Cardio tennis is based on drill and play activities and lessons can be tailored to suit individual participant’s fitness levels and preferences.

“You don’t need to be a super star tennis player – you can be a higher level player or a beginner,” Luke said.

“Everyone gets their own workout.”

help widen your social circle and the group environment can encourage and motivate you to work harder.

“There’s a big social aspect, it’s not all about hitting a thousand balls,” Luke said.

Former competitive tennis player Michelle Collins took up cardio tennis as an alternative way to play tennis.

“It was something that looked a bit different, so I thought I’d give it a whirl,” Michelle said.

“It doesn’t really matter what level you are, because you’re not actually playing a game.”

The chance to try a different tennis-style workout drew Simon Smith to cardio tennis.

“I enjoy tennis; it’s just a different way of getting fit,” she said.

“I enjoy meeting different people and I find it helps improve tennis skills.”

Kialla Park Tennis Club secretary Wendy Darveniza said cardio tennis was a fun way to exercise.

“I wanted to support the club and come along to the free tryouts, and I found I loved it,” Wendy said.

Luke said an average cardio tennis workout could burn between 400-600 calories in a 45-minute session and 500800 in an hour session.

Wendy said cardio tennis was an opportunity to spend time with partner David, who also participates.

As a group workout, the social nature of cardio tennis can

“It’s something we can do together,” she said. n

Story: Jenna Bishop Main photograph: Simon Bingham

BUILDING

a better you

Donna Innes-Irons is proof that you can be fit and healthy at any stage of life, no matter how young or old you are.

“If you’re fit, you can experience life the way you should – you can experience life fully,” Donna said.

“It’s empowering – once you’re in control of your body, you can control other things in your life.”

It wasn’t until she turned 40 that Donna, now 49, first stepped into a gym.

“I didn’t even like gyms – I thought they were yuck,” she said.

“I was so intimidated by gyms.”

Persistence was the key and she pushed through her gym reservations, starting gently with weights training.

“Now it’s my second home,” Donna said.

After discovering her love for fitness, Donna has spent the past five years working as a personal trainer and has recently moved into the world of bodybuilding.

She said getting into a fitness routine would be beneficial for women at any stage of life, no matter what age you begin exercising at.

“It just goes to show, it doesn’t matter how old you are, if your mindset is right and behaviour and habits are right, that you can achieve anything,” she said.

Exercise can help keep cholesterol levels and blood pressure down, improve resting heart rates and bone density.

Donna suggested easing into a fitness routine slowly by walking a couple of times a week and then introducing small weights to tone and improve strength.

“

It just goes to show, it doesn’t matter how old you are, if your mindset is right and behaviour and habits are right, that you can achieve anything.

“

She said it was important to find activities which were enjoyable and helped maintain enthusiasm for exercise.

Healthiness is not just about spending time in

the gym for Donna, who maintains a holistic approach to her fitness.

In addition to walking and gym sessions, Donna also practices meditation and yoga and focuses on nutrition to create balance. “(Fitness and healthiness is) a lifelong journey, it’s not something you can do in six weeks,” she said.

“It’s a complete lifestyle change.

“To me, a great body is just to be a healthy body with a happy soul inside, then you’ve got the whole package.”

Bodybuilding Donna has been training as a bodybuilder for over three years now, and has competed across Australia through the International Natural Bodybuilding Association.

“I thought at the age of 46, if I can do this, I can achieve anything,” she said.

Since taking up the sport, she has won the figure international and masters sections of the competitions in the last two seasons.

Donna said bodybuilding was more about health and fitness, rather than creating a muscly body.

“I feel confident about being a 49-year-old woman and being fit and healthy,” she said.

“You inspire yourself and other people to live a healthy life.”

She said competing against women of all different ages had given her a new perspective on health and encouraged her to strive harder.

“I used to think something like (bodybuilding) was so far out of my reach,” she said.

“I want to be on stage at 50 and inspire as many women as I can to follow a healthy lifestyle.” n MAY 2013 |

33

Fine facial lines

tackled with needling I’m unsure if I would consider plastic surgery in the future, it’s just not on my radar. I hope Mother Nature will be kind and allow me to age graciously.

Carmela Watson said the beauty of this treatment was that it promoted healing, increased natural collagen production and reduced fine lines.

However, each year the inevitable signs of ageing are etched deeper into my weathered and sun-damaged skin and, although this is life, there is no harm in exploring remedies that may lend a helping hand.

“Needling is an effective alternative to IPL (intense pulse light), laser resurfacing and chemical peels,” Ms Watson said.

Quite simply, my wish is for my skin to age healthily – not flawlessly.

Lisa (not her real name), 24, has been receiving treatment at ARC Medispa Shepparton for her facial acne scarring.

A series of specialised skin needling treatments have stimulated the Shepparton woman’s skin and the results have exceeded her expectations, even restoring her selfconfidence.

“Whenever I spoke to people I used to fidget by covering my face with my hands so people wouldn’t look at my face,” Lisa said.

“I am so happy with the treatment which is improving my facial scarring and I find I’m not hiding anymore.”

Although the words “skin needling” may initially sound barbaric – rest assured, it is not.

Skin needling is a treatment designed to rejuvenate tired skin, acne scarring and stretch marks.

Under the umbrella of ARC Plastic Surgery, ARC Medispa offers non-surgical treatments for skin correction and maintenance.

ARC Medispa Shepparton dermal consultant

So I, like Lisa, have put the treatment to the test for ME magazine.

After my informative initial consultation, an anaesthetic cream was applied prior to my treatment and within about 15 or 20 minutes my face was numb and my lips felt plump like Angelina Jolie’s!

As promised by my consultant Karen Thompson, the needling process was painless thanks to the anaesthetic cream; however the vibrating sound pricking below the surface of my skin reminded me of the dentist or a tattoo gun – apparently.

Also, as I had been warned, I was luminously pink and was grateful I was heading straight home.

The needling instrument, which consists of multiple needles with multiple speeds and adjustable needle depths, worked to pierce my skins layers at a 90 degree angle.

Ms Watson said treatment frequency varied for individual patients, but for me she would recommend the usual three treatments about four weeks apart.

Referred to as “micro wounding” the area, this process releases the skin’s own natural growth factors which stimulate the tightening and regeneration of the skin. Skin needling can be used around the eyes, nose and lips – where fine lines are most visible.

“There are different types of anti-ageing treatments to assist with good skin health and skin repair, and skin needling is a terrific option,” Ms Watson said.

The needling process took about half an hour, and when finished I experienced an initial wave of heat which subsided with a cool face washer, and my face was sensitive – similar to sunburn – for a few days.

And a few weeks after my treatment, my results are looking promising and noticed by friends who were unaware I’d had skin needling.

Bring on treatment number two.

– Kerri Thomson

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From the unique architectural design, to the iconic tower, and amazing views of the river and ranges.

Mitchelton Wines is the perfect destination for any event.

The newly refurbished Cellar Door offers the ideal environment to taste Mitchelton’s specialty estate grown wines. Relaxed and informal tastings are available from 10am to 5pm daily.

The new private tasting room also available by arrangement for small conferences and seminars, whilst the recently completed Conference and Function centre can accommodate up to 150 guests with style and ease.

Executive Chef Brett Dobson offers an Ă la carte seasonal menu in a stunning setting, with the riverside terrace offering casual outdoor dining, enjoy a great view of the new Riverdeck and amphitheatre, overlooking the Goulburn River, quietly suggesting the perfect place for a wedding ceremony.

With endless possibilities, you will see why Mitchelton winery really is a great space to relax, escape the world, and enjoy a glass of wine, or share a grazing platter with your best girlfriends.

Our Functions Co-ordinator Claire Di Stefano can help you to plan your event from start to finish, and will happily arrange a guided tour throughout our variety of function spaces available, including the underground cellars.

For more information contact Mitchelton Wines 470 MITCHELLSTOWN ROAD, NAGAMBIE, VICTORIA 3608 Phone (03) 5736 2225 Email restaurant@mitchelton.com.au Website www.mitchelton.com.au/visit-us Like Mitchelton Winery on Facebook or follow us on Twitter for all the latest news and events.

MAY 2013 |

35

simple

life is one of fulfilment

Miriam Bauman lives her life guided by three important principles – live simply, have a go and do what makes you happy – and for Miriam, happiness comes from helping others.

Volunteering and community work runs in Miriam’s blood – her parents were active community members, a quality they instilled in their daughter.

In addition to her parents, Miriam credits her grandmother and great-aunt for helping her become the person she is today.

“They taught me to live simply and be happy.

They always encouraged me to do what I wanted to do,” the Shepparton woman said.

Miriam began studying science after she finished secondary school, but realised it wasn’t for her after failing her first year.

that as one door closes another opens, then had a chance to try something she was truly passionate about: teaching.

She studied a Diploma of Education Primary/ Preschool and spent the next 2 ½ years working in rural Queensland.

To pay her way through teaching college, Miriam spent several years working in the army as a technical support officer, helping fitter armourers and mechanics in the Royal Australian Electrical and Mechanical Engineers Corps.

“I think the most important thing around these perceived ‘failures’ is that I had really good support around me,” she said.

Her path into the army was an unusual one – she was watching a race between Dick Johnson and Peter Brock when she came upon an Army Reserve promotions car.

Miriam, who firmly believes in the philosophy

“I went and chatted to (the army volunteers)

36

| MAY 2013

and three days later I enrolled in the Army Reserve,” she said. “(In the army) you learn to stand up for yourself, and meet fantastic people,” she said.

Miriam’s first taste of volunteering came when she was about 14 at boarding school – for a community project, she worked at the local hospital sterilising equipment.

She then became involved with Pony Riding for the Disabled, now called Riding for the Disabled, leading children on horses around paddocks.

At the tender age of 18, a doctor told Miriam she would probably never have children. Years later she was diagnosed with polycystic ovarian syndrome, but at that time

Story: Jenna Bishop Main photograph: Jayme Lowndes

Left top: Miriam feeding orphaned rhino Carla, which had been shot in the shoulder and slashed across an eye.

Left bottom: Miriam spent time caring for orphaned rhinos Carla and Lisa Marie in 2009 Above: Miriam with friend Leigh trekking through the Sumatran jungle.

Miriam said this diagnosis was one of the reasons she became involved with children, as a teacher and volunteer.

When she was 18 Miriam sponsored a World Vision child in the Philippines, a four-year-old girl named Flory.

A year later she flew overseas to meet Flory and paid for the child and her aid worker to travel from their home island Palawan to the nation’s capital, Manila.

Miriam had decided to take Flory on a clothes shopping trip and discovered that she only owned a T-shirt, a pair of shorts and a dress Miriam had sent as a present.

However, it was discovering that Flory had never worn any underwear in her life that was a turning point for Miriam.

“I sat down on the floor of that department store and I bawled my eyes out, because I realised that never in my life would I ever be in that same situation.”

In August 2010, Miriam spent seven days trekking through a Sumatran jungle to raise money for an orphanage, which is now selfsufficient.

The orphanage in Sumatra’s north, called Family Home, was established by Dutch woman Saskia and her Sumatran husband Sugianto after a tsunami devastated the small town of Bukit Lawang and left hundreds of children orphaned in November 2003.

“Our contributions combined with Saskia’s fundraising in Holland enabled (the orphanage) to buy a rubber plantation so they are no longer reliant on donor assistance,” Miriam said.

Miriam moved to Western Australia in 2000, and joined the Wilderness Society’s campaign to save the 250 km-long Ningaloo Reef.

“I want to see places conserved so that everyone can enjoy them,” she said.

She then joined the SAVE African Rhino

Foundation, dedicated to protecting Africa’s endangered black rhino populations from poaching.

“

I want to see places conserved so that everyone can enjoy them.

“

there was no name for the condition.

A speech from the foundation’s president convinced Miriam she needed to go Zimbabwe and help with the conservation efforts, and she has spent more than six months volunteering there during the past four years.

One of her most memorable moments occurred while working with the organisation to help dehorn rhinos: a rhino charged the group, stopping a mere 5m away.

“You could see his eyes, you could see his nose and the saliva hanging from his mouth,” Miriam said.

“I would like to think he realised we didn’t pose a threat to him.” n MAY 2013 |

37

Story: Jenna Bishop Main photograph: Jayme Lowndes Trish Edgar stumbled across an online forum that led to her controlling her condition in consultation with her doctor.

dr google will see you now With a plethora of information available online, it was only a matter of time before people resorted to the internet to address health concerns.

The figures are similar to statistics from across the world and are creating concerns that people could be misinformed or may be dismissing symptoms or seeking inappropriate treatments.

An online trial search for symptoms by health insurer Bupa led to variations on a predicted diagnosis depending on individual websites – a search for pins and needles suggested potential conditions varying from a B-12 vitamin deficiency to sciatica and multiple sclerosis.

A search for an earache listed a cold, ear infection or brain abscess as potential causes, while searching for “rash” suggested potential conditions such as contact dermatitis, eczema or meningitis.

University of Melbourne Shepparton Medical Clinic medical director Derek Wooff said patients were using the internet more and more.

“Like any tool, if used sensibly it can be a good thing,” Dr Wooff said.

“It’s a good thing to encourage people to take responsibility for their health and to be actively involved in decision making.”

He said one of the main concerns was that there was no standard applied to information from the internet, and some information could be un-validated.

38

| MAY 2013

“Information without knowledge and experience is just information,” he said.

“Just because it’s written there, doesn’t mean it’s true.”

Dr Wooff said if people were looking for health information on the internet, they should consider reputable government or illness-based websites, and consult a GP if they had any concerns.

He said a GP would have the patient’s best interests and outcomes in mind, and could take into account details such as their medical history.

“The internet doesn’t have your best interests in mind, since it’s not personalised,” he said.

“

Information without knowledge and experience is just information.

Dr Derek Wooff

“

According to a 2011 survey, almost 80 per cent of Australians are turning to the internet to seek medical information, while 47 per cent look for information to make a self diagnosis.

Dr Wooff said the continuous availability of new information meant doctors were also turning to reliable internet sources to keep on top of research and rare conditions, since traditional books and journals were no longer able to keep up.

Shepparton’s Trish Edgar, 45, turned to the internet after suffering an unexplained outbreak of hives.

While she was eventually diagnosed with urticarial vasculitis, doctors could find no cause triggering her symptoms.

Trish started a daily course of steroids, anti-histamine Plaquenil and allergy-relief medication Zyrtec. At the worst point, she was taking high-level steroid doses of up to 20 mg.

Regular specialist consults with a Melbourne immunologist and a Shepparton rheumatologist followed, and at one point the immunologist told Trish it was likely she would have the condition for 10 years.

“When (the hives) were bad, they were dinner plate size around my stomach and back,” Trish said.

After exhausting most treatment options, Trish was considering hormone replacement therapy when she stumbled onto an online forum which discussed the link between hives and hormonal changes.

Although Trish had previously asked doctors whether hormonal changes could be responsible for the hives, she was told the likelihood of this being the case was extremely slim.

After some research, she discovered women with the same condition had tried maca powder, a powder derived from a plant root which has the ability to regulate hormones.

With the support of her GP, she decided to try the powder and a short time later, the hives had cleared completely.

Trish said without the internet, her condition would have likely continued for years and she would have had to deal with the negative health impacts of taking steroids daily.

Online health information tips •

Check the quality of the information – look for an endorsement by a credible institution, such as a government or health organisation.

•

Check the date of the information – medical information dates quickly and new research is published frequently so ensure you have up-to-date information. Generally, information published more than two years ago should be considered out-of-date.

•

Refine your search.

•

Always raise any concerns you have with your GP.

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It is said there’s a phone app for everything, and now there are some that can help you with your health queries.

HealthTap is the latest health app phenomenon, which aims to connect the general public with more than 14 000 licensed United States physicians.

Any user can post a question on HealthTap, which will be answered by a doctor who is guaranteed to be in good standing, and the answer (but not the asker’s name) will be posted online. For a fee, users can ask private questions.

HealthTap chief executive officer Ron Gutman founded the app after he realised that more people were turning to the internet for health information – Google had reported receiving 1.4 billion searches on health every month – and wanted to provide trustworthy information.

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Another health app is US-based iTriage, which can help people diagnose problems based on symptoms and includes content reviewed by Harvard Medical School.

However, advice from websites and apps is no substitute for a professional’s opinion.

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39

tradition

still has a place

Amanda Heard Let’s set the record straight. The last thing on the mind of today’s debutantes – and their parents – is a shout-out from the dance floor to would-be marriage suitors.

They are, after all, usually 16 or 17-year-old students.

A debutante ball is an expensive rite of passage.

Families of debutantes can easily part with $1000 on their teen daughters’ night in the spotlight. Many spend hundreds more.

The boys’ families also fork out significant funds before the red carpet rolls out for their sons’ transformation into handsome, waltzing young gentlemen.

So what is the relevance of formally presenting techno-savvy, social networking Year 11 “princesses” and their dance partners to “society” in a ballroom setting in the 21st century?

According to Peter Garner of Excel Dance Centre, debutante balls are a glamorous highlight of many teens’ lives, but more importantly, the occasion recognises their coming of age.

He estimates about 500 male and female teens – mostly Year 11 students – are presented to family and friends annually at balls in Shepparton and district.

In the 19th century, upper-class European families presented their marriageable daughters at formal events called debutante balls.

ME questioned the relevance of debutante and presentation balls in the modern age – and discovered there is more significance to the popular tradition than meets the eye.

For girls in particular, most of the buzz surrounds dressing up – and not on the special evening alone. Many belles convince their parents to include hair, spray tan and make-up trials in the process.

Yet when the moment arrives to step out into the spotlight, many dance couples are surprised by nerves; a valuable life experience, according to Peter.

“It challenges their personalities and gives them a taste of adulthood,” he said.

Normally one to don runners and trackies, Year 12 student Amanda Heard loved feeling like a princess during last year’s Grammar School presentation ball.

But despite experience competing at national athletics events, Amanda had never been more nervous than the moments before her presentation to the audience with partner Dylan Orloff.

“Coming down the steps and having so many people looking at you was terrifying – but I would recommend it to anyone,” Amanda said.

“You learn new skills such as persistence and tolerance. I stood on my partner’s toes so many times during the training!

“Everyone’s maturity grew during the training and on the night it all came together.

whereas girls already have those images of getting dressed up.’’

Wanganui Park Secondary College student Grace Pedretti, 17, never had to work up the courage to ask an unsuspecting schoolboy to partner her.

“I asked my partner Andrew Boyington in Grade 6 because we had been best friends since Prep. We pretty much always knew we’d do our deb together,” Grace said.

“The training was really draining but it was all worth it,” she said of preparations for her debutante ball in March.

“We had to practise in long skirts and heels and really concentrate.

“Our deb was a chance to look nice and be elegant.

“We had to act proper and mature, but we still had fun with our friends and got to know a lot more people than we would normally associate with.”

School friend Lucy Marino, 17, is also still excited about her Cinderella evening with partner Bronson Guica at Wanganui’s first of two 2013 debutante balls.

“When you first go out there and everyone cheers and claps, it really takes your breath away,” Lucy said.

“The worst part was the night flew by so fast.”

“The debutantes are adolescents – neither children nor adults,” Peter said.

“We are going to need those elements for the rest of our lives.”

“They want to be treated like adults but they act like kids at times.”

Amanda said the race for girls to secure a deb partner often caught teenage boys off guard.

After 12 years teaching deb sets, Peter Garner still enjoys watching the young adults glow with well-postured poise and success during presentation balls.

“Most girls ask their partners in Year 9 – once one starts, they all start.

“It gives young people from all walks of life the opportunity to shine,” he said.

“It’s pretty daunting because a lot of girls ask guys in the schoolyard. Boys that age don’t usually care about dancing and dressing up,

“We create a moment in their history that gives everyone connected to these young people a moment of pride.”

He said debutante balls allowed them to not only feel grown-up but to show family and friends they were capable, professional and mature.

It’s a reminder they are on the cusp of adulthood.

40

| MAY 2013

Story: Corinna Boldiston

For the best your skin can look at any age Age, stress, the sun and other environmental factors all have dramatic effect on our skin. Shepparton Skin Clinic specialises in a wide variety of skin problems and offers both medical and cosmetic treatments that will help you get back your healthy natural glow.

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Grace Pedretti and Lucy Marino Photograph: Bianca Mibus

Budget Tickets: $65-$70 each (families usually have the opportunity to fill a table of 10-12 people) Registration and incidentals: $65-$85 Dance lessons: $125 Group photo: $30 DVD: $65

Girls’ extras Dress: $400 upwards (new season) Gloves: $30 Shoes: $80-$150 Hairstyle: $60-$70 (trial extra $55) Make-up: $50 (trial extra $45) Spray tan: $40 (trial extra) Jewellery: $30-$60 Gift for partner: $50-$100

Boys’ extras Suit hire: $100 (plus $50 refundable deposit) Shoes: $80-$150 Haircut: $20 Gift for partner: $50-$100 • Costs are estimates only and will vary for individuals, couples and groups.

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41

Story: Jenna Bishop

personal

treasure troves Stamps, coins, memorabilia and books – the hobby of collecting a group of similar things has existed for millennia, ever since the Ptolemies founded the largest collection of books in the ancient world, Egypt’s Library of Alexandria in 300 BC. In modern times, the phenomenon of collecting has spawned multiple TV shows, including Antiques Roadshow, American Pickers, while Julie Andrews collects ceramics, Formula I driver Jenson Button collects watches and Elton John collects photography.

Collecting has become a way to express individuality, to gain pleasure, or even as a financial investment.

Photography: Jayme Lowndes

Collection offers snapshot of past Courtney Wilson has almost 60 different cameras – but don’t ask her to take photos with them since they’re mostly priceless vintage items.

Courtney’s obsession began in 2011, but over the past two years it has grown immensely.

She became intrigued by her father’s vintage film camera and started researching cameras on the internet.

“It has become an obsession,” she said.

“I started going to antiques shops, roadtripping everywhere, asking people to keep an eye out for me.”

Courtney’s camera collection was fuelled by her interest in photography – she studied it at school and has a DSLR. She purchased her first camera, a folding camera, from an antiques store at Echuca, and now has at least one camera from each decade.

Courtney also collects antique glass plate negatives, with the oldest in her collection dating back to 1909.

Cameras in her collection are from as far away as England – she purchased 11 42

| MAY 2013

Coronet Midget cameras dating from the 1930s through eBay. The Coronet Midget cameras are the length of a small pinkie finger, and the extremely rare film is the size of a 20 cent coin.

Courtney said the mini cameras were her favourite and she estimated that, altogether, they were worth $2000.

“Every one produced comes out a different colour and no pattern is the same, they’re all unique,” she said.

Two of her prized cameras are a Panoram Kodak 4 made in 1900 and a Thornton Pickard Triple Victo, which was made between 1900 and 1926 and is worth up to $500.

She also has the Triple Victo’s original case and the material which went over the photographer’s head while they were taking a photo.

Courtney plans to keep her cameras on display and eventually hand down the collection to future children.

Each camera is thoroughly researched prior to purchase, which Courtney said saved her money and time, especially if the camera wasn’t in perfect condition.

“I think it’s great to see what cameras started off as and what they are now,” she said.

She got a bargain when she picked up a camera for $10, despite it being worth more than $150.

Her camera purchases are now limited by display space – that is, until she moves into a bigger house. n

Photograph: Ray Sizer

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Mandy just can’t Let it Be Name a piece of Beatles memorabilia, and Mandy Turner probably has it.

Mandy estimated she would have at least 200 items of Beatles memorabilia.

“I’d probably have around 40 to 50 records alone,” she said.

Mandy’s collection now includes guitar-shaped brooches, matchboxes, bubblegum cards, serviettes, magazines, scrapbooks, original sheet music, posters, a ‘Bank of the Beatles’ moneybox, a satchel, four jigsaw puzzles, mugs, cups, a deck of cards and calendars – just to name a few.

There’s no doubt about her favourite piece in the collection though, it’s a book of love letters to The Beatles, along the lines of: “Dear Paul, I think you’re sexy and I don’t even know what that means.”

“I never get sick of reading it,” Mandy said.

Another of her favourite treasures is the Beatles Collection, known among Beatle fans as the Blue Box, a signed collection of records released in 1978 and still in its original wrapper.

Mandy began collecting in late 2001, just after the death of George Harrison, her favourite Beatles member.

“I was in the car saying ‘all these songs are fantastic’, and

my mum filled me in on who they were,” she said.

For Christmas that year, she was given a Beatles CD, and the collection quickly became an obsession.

She said the people she had met through her collection, especially in dedicated online forums, were one of the best parts of the hobby.

“It’s what I love about a big band like this – you get to meet so many people (who share the same passion),” she said.

She said her mum was fascinated that Mandy became interested in a band that broke up 17 years before she was born.

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“She’d prefer me liking their music than, say, Eminem.”

Mandy said she didn’t want to think about how much she’d spent on her collection and would prefer to think about it as an investment.

‘I’ll get my money back ... they’re only going to increase in value,” she said.

Mandy also collects Beetles – of the Volkswagen car variety – and strange musical instruments such as ukuleles and mandolins, all of which she can play.

“George (Harrison) was instrumental, pardon the pun, in bringing (ukuleles) back,” Mandy said. n

53 High St, Shepparton P: 5821 7150 MAY 2013 |

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It can take a team of highly trained professionals to evaluate something this small.

Never too early to plan for

financial future

The last thing many women think about is preparing financially for the future, but beginning early is one of the best decisions you could make.

This is how small a breast abnormality can be - sometimes even smaller.

Fortunately the vast majority are harmless. But it’s critical to be able to identify breast abnormalities which are potentially fatal.

That’s where Goulburn Valley Imaging Group comes in.

With a team of dedicated professionals including radiologists, nurses, technicians and administrative staff, GV Imaging Group is Shepparton’s only fully accredited Breast Imaging facility.

The technology at their disposal represents the leading edge of medical science.

It includes ultrasound, CT scans, plain films, Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and nuclear medicine. And of course, Mammography.

GV Imaging Group have a MicroDose Mammography Unit which maximises the image quality, picking up abnormalities much earlier and uses only half the dose of radiation compared to other systems.

It is predicted 1 in 9 Australian women develop Breast Cancer at some stage of their lives so it is better to be proactive and Mammograms and Ultrasounds are simple tests. GV Imaging Group also recommends that every woman should conduct a monthly breast self examination.

If even the slightest lump or change (dimpling or discharge) is noticed, consult your doctor.

Accountancy firm MB&M partner Rebecca Woolstencroft said the cost of not seeking good financial advice could mean you don’t have enough assets to meet your financial needs and do the important things in life.

Rebecca said you should consider meeting with several financial planners and then choose one you were comfortable with.

She encouraged women to visit ASIC’s site – www. moneysmart.gov.au – which offers general financial advice and a section on choosing an adviser.

“The money smart website is a great tool for people to boost their knowledge on general financial management and everyone should have a look and then seek advice for their own situation,” she said.

“Be careful of what other people tell you they are doing, as sometimes their situation won’t be exactly the same as yours.”

Rebecca shared her top financial tips for women planning big changes in their life with ME.

Women about to begin studying at university 1.

Work as much as you can to earn some money before going away.

2.

Explore what government assistance you might be eligible for.

3.

Prepare a budget. You will need to work out what expenses you will have for the year, including the big expense of books at the start of each semester. If you’re not going to work while at uni (you’ll need to work out if you can afford not to), then you’ll need to save enough to buy these during the year. You will also need to budget for your living expenses. If you are at college, what will you have to contribute to the monthly bills? If you live in a share house, what is the cost of rent, utilities and groceries?

4.

Set up a bills account and transfer a set amount based on your budget each week to ensure you can meet bills each week, month and quarter.

That’s because it’s often the small things that really matter.

1300 797 484 44

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stay

active active FOR LIFE at the Shepparton Sports Stadium

Women thinking about buying a house 1.

2.

Work out what repayments you can afford as a starting point. To do this you will need to prepare a budget that incorporates all expenses and employment income. Don’t forget to take into account the new costs of owning a home such as water rates, council rates and house and contents insurance.

Tai Chi

Then shop around for the best home loan, don’t just go to the bank you use every day, consider using a mortgage broker to find the best deal.

Women planning a wedding 1.

Here comes that word again, budget. Write down what you would like to spend on the wedding. Then itemise expenses such as wedding dress, reception, band and flowers. Allocate an amount against each item. Then research those items to see if realistically they are what you want, or more importantly can afford.

2.

Prepare a budget and work out what you can save each week/month. Then put this away into an interest-bearing account. Use this figure to determine how much you can save and whether this will be enough to meet the wedding costs by the planned date. If not, then you will need to reduce the wedding budget, or delay the wedding a bit longer so you can afford it.

Women who are planning to start a family 1.

Work out the family budget. What are the minimum costs of the household?

2.

Look at how much you have in savings, and how long that will last if you are on maternity leave.

3.

Look at whether you are eligible for paid parental leave or the Federal Government baby bonus.

4.

Then determine when you will need to return to work based on what income the family will need. Don’t forget to take into account the cost of childcare if that is your chosen path, as well as the reduction in family tax benefits from the government as a result of your increased wage income.

Sometimes how much you earn from part-time work versus the lost government benefits may mean you’re not financially better off.

5.

Have a discussion with your employer to determine what work arrangements are possible after maternity leave, such as flexible hours or part-time work. n

Strength Training Friendly and welcoming people in a comfortable environment.

Join any time and take advantage of our ‘pay as you go’ system.

For more information contact Kyleigh on 5832 9481.

Alternatively, feel free to drop into the Stadium at 120 Numurkah Rd, Shepparton.

MAY 2013 |

45

Shhhh . . .

Secret women’s business Snoring aunt

My family went to a lot of effort to get to my cousin’s wedding in Chicago. It was a big deal and I was excited.

To my surprise, I had to share a bedroom with my aunt-in-law (who has a slight drinking problem).

The morning of the wedding, my aunt was drinking vodka, beer, whatever.

A few minutes into the ceremony, the priest was saying prayers and the bride and groom were looking lovingly into each other’s eyes when I realised that my aunt-in-law was snoring – on my shoulder!

It was awful, everyone was looking over at us. I was actually dying to laugh but knew that would make a scene. She woke up when the bride and groom kissed and everyone started cheering.

Reviews

Book

Review: Jenna Bishop

Gone Girl

by Gillian Flynn, Weidenfield & Nicolson, RRP $29.99 On the morning of their fifth wedding anniversary, Nick Dunne’s wife Amy disappears without a trace.

Amy, wealthy and beautiful, has everything going for her: a fabulously handsome husband, great marriage, a wonderful Manhattan lifestyle and a fantastic job.

In a his-versus-hers perspective, you begin to see tendrils of disharmony as you advance through the pages – this marriage is not as perfect as it seems.

It’s impossible to believe husband-of-the-year Nick is capable of murdering his wife, but Flynn drops just enough breadcrumbs of doubt to make you question whether he actually did it.

– Anna, Shepparton

Just when you feel confident you know exactly how this novel will turn out (and become pleased you were smart enough to figure it out), Flynn pulls the rug out from under you.

Butt of jokes

What you think you know changes dramatically as the story is flipped on its head (in a twist you probably didn’t see coming, like me) and races off into a dark place, with plot lines not dissimilar to those you’d find in the mind of a chillingly intelligent sociopath.

I arrived at boot camp one morning wearing footless tights. This particular session was held at KidsTown, and 10 minutes into the program we were told to run up the stairs and slide down the slides.

The slide was a bit sticky and my tights didn’t slide well; by the time I edged to the bottom of the slide, I had a hole bigger than my hand on my backside. I had knickers on, but I was so humiliated and had to leave straightaway.

I was so embarrassed about going back to another session, but I did, hoping that no-one would remember me. However, the trainer commented that I’d made a wise decision to wear shorts this time and everyone laughed. I remained the butt of the boot-campers’ jokes for every session.

– Embarrassed boot-camper, Shepparton

Wriggly I nterrogation

I had bought worms for fishing at the weekend during my Friday lunchbreak.

When I was driving home from work I had to stop at a breathalysing station, and after I had blown 00 the policeman’s eyes widened and he asked, “What’s on the passenger seat?”

Bemused, I answered, “My handbag and the newspaper.”

“No, what’s in the takeaway container?” he pressed.

“My fishing worms,” I answered. He didn’t seem convinced so I pulled a worm out of the soil mix to show him.

It wasn’t until he sent me on my way that I realised he must have thought I had a container of hooch for the weekend!

– Innocent angler, Mooroopna

ME wants to know your secret women’s business.

Email your funny anecdotes (maximum 100 words) to corinna.boldiston@sheppnews.com.au

Flynn’s ironic quips and quick wit draw you in from the very first page, and there are just enough plot twists to justify continued interest.

It’s undeniably a lengthy read and at times you feel it’s an effort to push through the never ending dialogue – but the end result is rewarding, and will leave you reeling and a little queasy at the level of insanity some people are capable of.

However, it’s a brilliantly written suspense/thriller novel about a toxic marriage, with just enough of a hint of chick-lit to appeal to a wider audience – and the fact it’s been in the bestseller lists since publication is indicative of its popularity.

App

Review: Rhiannon Gavalakis

Viber If you’ve ever travelled overseas and racked up a huge phone bill, then listen up.

Viber is a simple-to-use app that allows you to call, text and send photos worldwide – for free!

Smartphone users globally can stay in touch with friends and family, without the worry of ‘‘bill shock’’.

Simply download the app and start connecting freely, there is no complicated registration process requiring usernames or passwords and you don’t have to activate anything.

Better still, it automatically recognises the contacts in your phone book that are already using Viber. This feature is great and saved me the hassle of manually transferring contact details.

I love that Viber doesn’t drain your phone battery like some apps do, so you can leave it on and receive incoming calls and notifications.

Enjoying the perks of free communication has never been simpler, just hook on to free wifi and start connecting in a touch.

Of course, if you aren’t connected to free wifi the app will use your phone’s network data and charges may apply, so that’s something to keep in mind.

Overall, Viber makes staying in touch with loved ones easier and cheaper while travelling.

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Great gifts for mum

Mother’s Day at We have a huge range of practical, inspirational and thoughtful gifts your mum will love. Whether she’s passionate about cooking, loves a little glamour, is always on the go or she’s the modern day working mum, Howards has the perfect gift in-store.

If you’re still unsure, we have gift cards! Head to Howards and find a practical gift your treasured mum will love.

Mirrors

Zoola Ring Holder

Allure Maxi Organiser

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Reisenthel Cosmetic Bag

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Ph: 5823 5877

MAY 2013 |

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be red carpet ready everyday Sun damage, uneven skin tone or pigmentation an issue?

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