MRL - April 2019

MRL MURRAY RIVER LIVING

EDITION 3 - APRIL 2019 • FREE

COBRAM-BAROOGA YARRAWONGA-MULWALA COROWA-RUTHERGLEN AND SURROUNDING DISTRICTS

Places

World’s best show skiers coming Never a dull day at wildlife shelter Winery’s China love affair

Faces

Tall order: Kewal Sheils’ home town visit Rocket man to touch down on the Murray Unique wooden creations

Exclusive

Ryan Garthwaite: Journey from small town to big stage

love the

lifestyle.

The perfect place to relax with friends and take in the superb views of Lake Mulwala.

The new-and-improved Malibu Deck has got the lot. A retractable roof, misting fans, TVs, bar, coffee shop, a playground for the kids and by far the best view in town.

The perfect destination for a day trip or short break away, come and stay on the water’s edge at the Ski Club Holiday Park.

With its wide range of great value accommodation and powered sites right next door to the Mulwala Water Ski Club.

If it’s sport, dining or just plain relaxing, it’s all here!

And don’t forget our fantastic live entertainment every week with some of Australia’s hottest acts performing — all live & free!

Phone: (03) 5744 1888 www.mulwalawaterski.com.au

M U R R AY R I V E R L I V I N G R E D E F I N E D

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Lekeal

It’s more than www.yarragolf.com.au - 03 5744 1911 Yarrawonga Mulwala Golf Club Resort is recognised as the pick of resorts along the Murray River, Australia’s number one golfing destination. Displaying luscious green fairways and surrounded by beautiful river gum bushland the resort is the ideal location for your next individual or group golfing experience, wedding and reception, conference, short stay accommodation or a long relaxing holiday. But a day at the resort can be just as refreshing as a short or long stay.

Why not head in and enjoy the facilities offered. For a light bite to eat there are plenty of options available from morning tea until late at the Sand Wedge Bar. Or tempt your tastebuds with quality dining in the newly refurbished Border Bistro. The stylish and professional upgrade of the bistro creates the perfect setting from intimate dining to fun group bookings.

The club offers a safe family friendly environment where the kids will be entertained at the Family Fun Zone offering a free interactive play area, TV and colouring in activities suited for two to eight year olds. Then there’s gaming consoles for the older kids providing hours of fun.

a golfer’s destination Who doesn’t enjoy a recent block buster movie in Gold Class comfort at very affordable pricing? Day and night sessions are always scheduled and the 60 seat luxury movie theatre is just the place to enjoy a delicious snack and hot or cold drink while leaning back in ultimate comfort. Come and watch your favourite stars and appreciate the relaxing experience it offers.

If it’s sport you are into, then there’s the big screen TV’s showing all the latest sports while you try your luck at a spot of Keno or try a punt on the TAB. Stay late and enjoy the live entertainment playing regularly in house or bring your friends along to one of our entertaining and hilarious dinner shows. For something more peaceful imagine sipping a refreshment, making yourself comfortable and taking in all the splendour the manicured fairways offer from the sunny and spacious terrace.

Whilst the Club’s 45 holes of golf are nothing short of spectacular, if golf’s not for you, the resort facilities offer something every day for everyone. Do yourself a favour and take the time to visit Yarrawonga Mulwala Golf Club Resort.

Come and stay or visit for a day!

MRL MURRAY RIVER LIVING

team.

from the

COBRAM-BAROOGA YARRAWONGA-MULWALA COROWA-RUTHERGLEN AND SURROUNDING DISTRICTS

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elcome to the third edition of Murray River Living magazine.

MRL is your gateway to the beautiful Murray River region and all it has to offer.

Discover the places and faces that make this region shine from undiscovered gems to well-travelled favourites, quirky characters to community leaders, new adventures and great events.

Enjoy browsing these pages, carefully compiled for you by writers and photographers who work in, live in and love the region with all it has to offer.

Take the time to uncover all there is to enjoy and begin your journey through Murray River Living.

The MRL team.

MRL MURRAY RIVER LIVING

EDITION 3 - APRIL 2019 • FREE

COBRAM-BAROOGA YARRAWONGA-MULWALA COROWA-RUTHERGLEN AND SURROUNDING DISTRICTS

Places

World’s best show skiers coming Never a dull day at wildlife shelter Winery’s China love affair

Faces

From rolling fairways to age-old vineyards, beautiful Lake Mulwala to the mighty Murray River, sandy beaches to bustling town centres – the Murray River region has so much to discover.

Tall order: Kewal Sheils’ home town visit Rocket man to touch down on the Murray Unique wooden creations

Exclusive

Ryan Garthwaite: Journey from small town to big stage

Cover photo by local photographer Todd Brewer; Beautifull Lake Mulwala and its star trails captured on a Woodlands jetty in Yarrawonga. @thebrewski_effect

contents. love the

lifestyle.

Ryan’s journey

Tall order World’s best show skiers coming

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Rocket man to touch down on the Murray

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Never a dull day at wildlife shelter

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Winery’s China love affair

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Bullied to Broadway

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Tree change seekers growing

Unique wooden creations

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Our top events

The last sulky restoration

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WORDS AND PHOTOGRAPHY

DESIGN

Jared Loughnan Robert Muir Emma Prior Jarryd Barca

Sandra Schaap Art Director sandras@yarrawongachronicle.com.au

editor@yarrawongachronicle.com.au

ADVERTISING

PHOTOGRAPHY Les Garbutt Todd Brewer

Jared Loughnan Managing Director jl@yarrawongachronicle.com.au Sandra McCurdy Brooke Sanderson Dale Pegg Boon Law

Murray River Living will also be available as an online edition or download the free Murray River Living app 7

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PUBLISHER Yarrawonga Chronicle and Corowa Free Press Pty Ltd ACN 158 627 073 101 Belmore Street, Yarrawonga ph: 03 57 44 3731 www.yarrawongachronicle.com.au

The publisher does not take the responsibility for any statements or errors and omissions made by any editorial or advertising material published in this magazine or associated online material. No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying, recording, or other electronic or mechanical methods, without the prior written permission of the publisher, except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical reviews and certain other noncommercial uses permitted by copyright law. For permission requests, write to the publisher, addressed “Attention: Permissions Coordinator,” at the address below.

Yarrawonga Chronicle 101 Belmore Street, Yarrawonga VIC 3730

VCE & VCAL/VET programs 1:1 laptops Small class sizes Extensive Co-curricular programs Direct bus run to Corowa/Rutherglen

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Sacred Heart College Witt Street, Yarrawonga Ph 03 5742 1300 Email: info@shcy.vic.edu.au www.shcy.vic.edu.au

Open learning spaces Enquiry based learning philosophy Inclusive of all learners Welcoming and inviting atmosphere Supporting all learners to reach their potential

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CATHOLIC EDUCATION, Yarrawonga

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Sacred Heart Primary Orr Street, Yarrawonga Ph 03 5744 3339 Email: principal@shyarrawonga.catholic.edu.au www.shyarrawonga.catholic.edu.au

MRL MURRAY RIVER LIVING

TALL

ORDER

Edition 3 - 2019 • FREE

By By Jared Loughnan

Local legend and Australia's tallest man, Kewal Sheils, was invited back to his home town in early March by the crew of Channel Nine's award winning current affair program, 60 Minutes. With senior reporter Charles Wooley (pictured with Kewal) at the helm, the crew welcomed Kewal back to Yarrawonga where he received a warm reception and the key to the Moira Shire by Mayor Libro Mustica. ➣

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MRL MURRAY RIVER LIVING

A Edition 3 - 2019 • FREE

s Kewal Sheils drives into the main street of Yarrawonga in his yellow 1967 Mustang he turns a few heads. Why wouldn’t people look? It’s a rare vintage car and its V8 engine rhythmically reverberates through Belmore Street.

But as soon as Kewal climbed out of the prized vehicle the turning of heads quickly became stares. At 223 centimetres (7ft 3ins) Kewal always stands out from the crowd.

The 30-year-old was invited to return to his home town recently by the crew of Channel Nine’s award winning current affair program, 60 Minutes. With senior reporter Charles Wooley at the helm, the 60 Minutes crew was in Yarrawonga Mulwala to document Kewal’s life as Australia’s tallest man.

As soon as Kewal walks away from his Mustang, ironically in front of Belmore Street’s tallest structure, the Town Hall, he is greeted by Wooley who welcomes him home and then escorts him to the front steps of the hall where Moira Shire Mayor Libro Mustica proudly hands him the “key” to the shire.

Living and working in Melbourne Kewal seldom returns home to see family or friends, but as the crew go about their businesses filming, he is recognised by locals who are keen to shake his hand and catch up.

Those that grew up knowing Kewal always knew he was going to be a tall man. But locals are more drawn to his good nature, unique sense of humour rather than his height.

Height is in Kewal’s genes, his mother Kerry is of Swedish-Irish heritage, is 6ft. His late father, who was Tanzanian and Punjabi Sikh background, was 6ft 4ins.

His first name, pronounced Kay-wul, is perhaps prophetic. “It’s a Swahili name,” Kewal says. “I’m told it means ‘the only’, which is somewhat appropriate if true.”

Charles Wooley, who “loved visiting Yarrawonga Mulwala”, described Kewal as remarkably easy going.

Moira Shire Mayor Libro Mustica took time to get on Kewal Sheils ‘level’.

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Kewal Sheils playing for the Craigieburn Eagles.

“He is such an interesting guy, he has such a quiet dignity about him.

In fact I had a crook neck after looking up to him so much this week,” Wooley joked.

“I have interviewed many stars in my time and Kewal has such great qualities… more than just the attraction of his height.” - Charles Wooley 60 Minutes reporter But to Wooley, Kewal has star quality. “Sitting with him, he reminds me of Denzel Washington,” he said.

“I have interviewed many stars in my time and Kewal has such great qualities… more than just the attraction of his height.”

The 30-year-old is extremely likeable, he is softly spoken and you instantly feel a sense of kindness and trustworthiness when you meet him.

The former car salesman, motor-sport watcher and Kanye West fan, now lives alone in Pascoe Vale South in Melbourne’s inner-suburban north-west, which is to say that he is mostly unremarkable.

Except, of course, for the fact he is seven foot three. Put another way, Kewal is roughly the same height as a female Asian elephant, and so people tend to stare in awe whenever he is near them.

Kewal has held the mantle of tallest man in this country since the Australian Book of Records was first printed in 2017.

He says he was never really allowed to be normal. When he was one, he looked like a terrible two. When he was two, he could pass for four. By the time he was in grade 6, he was more than six feet tall.

An only child, Kewal was raised by his mother Kerry around regional Victoria, mostly in Yarrawonga.

In fact his grandfather, Murray Sheils, was a former owner of the Lake Mulwala Hotel, fondly known back then as ‘The Swinger’.

Kerry said his height came with many challenges, mostly around expectations.

“He was being pushed around the supermarket in a pram one day when a stranger shook her head in quiet admonishment suggesting that he was far too big to need a stroller. He was barely 14 months old,” Kerry said.

When he was a little larger, another woman approached Kerry on the playground. “Is there something wrong with your son?” she asked. “Is he a bit delayed?” The woman thought Kewal was slow for 16. He was

MRL MURRAY RIVER LIVING

Edition 3 - 2019 • FREE

Kewal Sheils takes Moira Shire Mayor Libro Mustica and 60 Minutes reporter Charles Wooley for a ride in his 1967 Mustang.

only eight.

Then there was that time at Movie World on the Gold Coast. “He got on a ride that whizzed around in circles, but just as it was pulling away it stopped.

“He was over the height limit,” Kerry said. “He was mortified. I think only around 13 years old at the time.”

By the time Kewal was 14 he stood six foot nine, and worked at the local IGA as (you guessed it) a shelf stacker. Every passing customer said the same thing. “’You wouldn’t need a ladder to reach the top shelf,’” he says, rolling his eyes. “I heard that 15 times a shift, but I tried to be the bigger man.”

Being incredibly tall was tricky in his teens, particularly when it came to clothes. In shops his mum used to turn pairs of pants inside out, examining every hemline to see if they could be let down a few inches more. More often than not, though, they had to catch the train to Melbourne for a visit to High & Mighty Menswear.

The photos are the worst part for Kewal. People want a picture with

Students at Kewal’s former school, Sacred Heart College, were in awe of his height.

him wherever he goes. Sometimes they snap them without asking. He wishes he were alive in the 1980s, he says, before camera phones. “It’s such a weird double standard, because you would never do that to a person who was really short.” One night the incessant selfie requests prompted him to say, “Yes, you can have a photo, but only for $5 or a beer.” He thought it would dissuade them. Instead, people bought him drinks all night long.

While in town Kewal returned, with the 60 Minutes crew in tow, to his former high school; Sacred Heart College, where he was known as Spider, or Special K. As Kewal strided through his former schoolyard, every student freezed for a moment to gawp and as he lumbered among them they stood utterly dumbstruck.

Kewal has fond memories of his former school. One such memory was when he and his friends used to break school rules by hopping the fence for a swim in Lake Mulwala at lunchtime.

“Surprisingly we never got caught. But when the teacher asked why we had wet hair we would say; “it was hot so we put it under the drinking fountain Miss”.

“I loved going back and seeing the teachers,” Kewal said.

“My old PE teacher Lew Nagle, has even lost weight,” he remarked.

Now the school’s Principal Lew Nagle remembers Kewal as a “well-liked student”.

“Kewal was respected by both his peers and his teachers. He had a warm personality and a great sense of humour,” Lew said.

For those locals who are wondering, Kewal still loves playing basketball and still plays it recreationally, as a star centre with the Craigieburn Eagles. After finishing school Kewal ended up at a small college in smalltown Iowa USA, on a full scholarship. He never made it as a professional but still loves the game.

Before his 60 Minutes interview Kewal has very rarely dipped his toe into the spotlight. He did an interview with former Gold 104.3 breakfast radio duo “Brig and Lehmo”.

He even tried out for a part in the film Alien: Covenant – as the alien – and was flown to Fox Studios in Sydney for a full body plaster cast, but they chose someone else.

In 2015 an eccentric, wealthy Frenchman offered him a free trip to his amusement park outside Paris – Parc Saint-Paul – to join more than a dozen of the tallest people on earth, including the tallest man, Sultan Kösen, a Turkish farmer measured at eight foot three (251 centimetres).

“It was a strange experience, because I’d never, not once, met anyone who was taller than me, and out of all these guys, I was probably one of the shorter ones.

“But the thing I noticed was that most of them had gigantism, with the swollen hands and facial features, and they needed walking sticks. I was one of three guys who didn’t have a genetic condition with health problems.”

He walked the park, greeting guests, posing for photos. It was worth it for the all-expenses-paid trip to France but I would not be rushing back to do it again. It felt strange, and exploitative. “A lot of those guys, they love it, that’s their identity, but it’s not for me.

“People tell me I should get an agent, but it’s never anything I’ve looked into,” he says.

“It’s fun sometimes to be approached, but I really don’t know if I want that.”

For now Kewal continues to enjoy working in the car industry in Melbourne, and whenever he can, escapes up to Yarrawonga to see family and catch up with his mates out on Lake Mulwala in a “barby boat”.

“I just love coming back home, it’s a great place to relax,” Kewal said.

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MRL MURRAY RIVER LIVING

Edition 3 - 2019 • FREE

A recent aerial view (February 2019) of the $40 million luxury Sebel Point Resort Apartments at Silverwoods which is expected to be completed by March 2020.

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1 The Point Residences 2 1st Hole Black Bull GC 3 Black Bull GC Pro Shop 4 9th Hole Black Bull GC 5 18th Hole Black Bull GC 6 Future Stage 2 Accommodation Building 7 Bar & Restaurant 8 120 Seat Function Room 9 Day Spa Treatment Rooms 10 Stage 1 Accommodation Building 11 Gym 12 Infinity Edge Pool 13 Promenade

King of the Cacti John Hall.

An artist impression of the $4.0 million luxury Sebel Point Resort Apartments at Silverwoods Golf and Lifestyle Resort.

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SILVERWOODS' $40M SEBEL ON TARGET

By Jared Loughnan

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The $40 million luxury Sebel Point Resort Apartments at Silverwoods Golf and Lifestyle Resort is charging forward with a planned completion date expected around March, 2020. otus Living Project Director Daniel Smith said the development has progressed incredibly well.

He said the first stage – 65 apartment complex and accompanying wellness centre and spa, pool area, gym, admin and restaurant and bar areas are on target with accommodation buildings and the pool, gymnasium and other health club facilities coming along well.

“We welcome all the community and visitors to Yarrawonga to come on down and see how it’s really starting to take shape. We want to share our excitement with everyone,” Mr Smith said.

The complex features a unique modern and slick design created by renowned company Cox Architects and is being built by Hutchinson Builders.

Upon completion Sebel Yarrawonga will offer a 117-room boutique hotel and serviced apartments. In addition to the hotel, it will also encompass first class amenities including bar and bistro, fine-dining restaurant, 300-person conference facility, a pool, gymnasium and

other health club facilities, all built on the Lake Mulwala waterfront.

Silverwoods new Price Protection Mr Smith is also excited to inform land purchasers of their new Price Protection initiative.

“At Silverwoods, we’ve seen the trend of land purchasers in regional areas and across metropolitan Melbourne putting their home ownership plans on hold indefinitely, as talk of falling prices drives market uncertainty. We think it’s time for a change,” Mr Smith said.

“In summary, Silverwoods Price Protection initiative means land purchasers can buy a block of land right now at Silverwoods and on the date of settlement, should Lotus Living be offering an equivalent block of land within the Silverwoods estate at a lower price per square metre, Lotus Living will pay buyers back the difference between the discounted land price and the contracted purchase price.”

Mr Smith said the Price Protection initiative would restore confidence in the market and minimise any doubt buyers might have about their future.

“The market has changed dramatically in the last 12 months due to a whole range of reasons like changing regulations, reduced

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lending by the banks, and more recently, the Royal Banking Commission.

“As a result, hundreds if not thousands of Victorians are trapped, unable to enter or step up in the market for fear their investment will drop.

“At Lotus Living, we not only believe in the strength of the market and the wonderful product that is Silverwoods, we are now happy to protect the future purchase prices of land at Silverwoods.

“Lotus Living, the developer of Silverwoods, is a family-owned property development company that is incredibly passionate about creating communities with true heart and soul, so it could not be more important for us to be helping future purchasers and families,” he said.

Silverwoods Price Protection applies only to equivalent land lots offered by Silverwoods on its advertised price list and excludes any resale lots, house and land packages or current contracts of sale.

Please refer to the terms and conditions at www. silverwoodsyarrawonga.com.au/priceprotection for more information.

To learn more about Silverwoods call Estate Manager Tom Crozier on 03 5743 3744 or visit the Silverwoods Sales Office at 1-7 Silverwoods Boulevard, Yarrawonga. Open 11am to 5pm daily.

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MRL MURRAY RIVER LIVING

Ryan Garthwaite leaving his side off the field following his maiden AFL game at the MCG. Photo: AAP.

Edition 3 - 2019 • FREE

RYAN'S

JOURNEY FROM SMALL TOWN TO BIG STAGE

By Jarryd Barca

From John Foord Oval to the MCG, Corowa's own Ryan Garthwaite lived out a childhood dream in 2018 when he made his AFL debut for powerhouse club Richmond. We took the time to chat with the 20-year-old young defender in early January, where he explained his love for the Tigers, growing up on the Murray River and the possibility of becoming an NFL punter.

How do you sum up your 2018 season, making your debut following two preseasons at the club?

I sum up my 2018 season as a real growth season. Obviously starting out my first year in 2017 was just getting to know all the boys, all the coaches, all the staff, our game plan and just all the stuff it takes to be an AFL footballer. I think 2018 was a big step forward in putting all that together. Debuting and being able to play two games in my second year was amazing and I can’t express how much it meant to me, I’ll definitely class 2018 as my growth year and a year that I’ll never forget – one that will always be close to my heart.

I can imagine it was a bit of a different feeling walking onto the MCG than it was walking onto John Foord Oval for your first seniors game as a 16-year-old…

It definitely was. For me, my dream was to play AFL football and when that day finally came, running out there, I remember walking over to the ground and I was still pinching myself thinking ‘is this real, is it really happening?’ Then once I put the boots on and put the jersey on after my jumper presentation the boys and the coaches were amazing in making me feel like I belong out there. Then once the siren sounded and obviously lining up on (Tom) Hawkins, the adrenaline and

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the competitiveness kicks in and the rest is history from there. But I certainly remember running out for my first senior game for Corowa Rutherglen at 16 and it’s a bit of a similar feeling, you grow up and want to play at the highest level you can.

Being able to play seniors at a young age was fantastic and it really set me up from where I am now.

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MRL MURRAY RIVER LIVING

Edition 3 - 2019 • FREE

How much confidence do you take into 2019 knowing you got a couple of games under your belt and the club is willing to back you in when needed?

I definitely take in a lot of confidence. As I said it was definitely a growth year last year and getting those two games under my belt gives me that confidence that I can play at the top level, because I guess you always have selfdoubt no matter who you are and you want to get that experience early. I was starting to feel really comfortable at VFL level, and then getting my debut game and a game later on in the year definitely makes me feel more settled and more confident for when my next opportunity comes. Hopefully I can try and cement a spot.

Congratulations on the new contract, talk about that new deal you signed and why you’re happy to stick with the Tigers?

I signed a one-year deal half way through last year and then at the end of the year we had a chat again and I signed for another year, so it’s a two-year contract which is really good.

I want to be a Tiger for life – that’s what I’ve told my manager, so when the news came through that there was going to be discussion again I was over the moon and being able to sign and getting it done, you’ve got that security over your head so you can just go out there and play footy and do what you love doing. Having that security now and knowing where I am for at least another two years, and hopefully more in the future, makes me happy and is really satisfying.

Ryan pictured with his father Rod at their former family farm in Corowa during Richmond’s bye week last season.

You’re obviously a key defender, was there anyone in the league you initially tried to emulate and base your game off, or someone you still do today?

There certainly is, I do a lot of work with ‘Rancey’ (Richmond full-back Alex Rance), Dave (Astbury), ‘Grimsey’ (Tigers defender Dylan Grimes) and Ben Miller – all five of us are very close. I play Rancey’s role at VFL level, but at AFL level I’ll try and emulate how Dylan Grimes and David Astbury play – just lock down defender, come off and take intercept marks and really be a key pillar down there.

You copped an ankle injury during the season, how’d that come about, how long were you in crutches for and did you miss any games?

I rolled it about half way through the year, it was actually the match after my debut game. We were playing Essendon at Windy Hill and I just rolled it and didn’t play the second half. I constantly did it each week and it was really starting to build up with fluid and was getting quite painful at the back of the heel, so with about a couple of games left to go in the season we made a call and said we’ll get (surgery) done now so that it’s not bothering us coming into the 2019 pre-season and into the future.

It was mainly a scrape and a drain, I was in and out in a day at the hospital and on crutches for about five days just to be safe, and I was back walking and putting weight through it thereafter.

Did the surgery delay your pre-season at all?

I wouldn’t call it delayed, I’d say it put a little setback on it. The only thing I couldn’t really do before Christmas was the skills part of it, so I was running and doing weights but just couldn’t do the skills component, so hopefully within a week of being back I’ll be able to get stuck into the skills and then we go on camp on the 20th (of January) up to the Gold Coast.

I wouldn’t say delayed but definitely a two steps forward, one step back sort of thing.

You grew up around the Corowa region, what’s the best thing about the town and why did you enjoy growing up along the Murray River?

Garthwaite pictured with family and ex-Tiger player Emmett Dunne, who presented to Ryan his first Guernsey. Photo by Michael Wilson – AFL Media.

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I loved being a country kid. From such an early age it teaches you what life’s about. You’ve got to go out and work for what you do, you’ve got to love what you

MRL MURRAY RIVER LIVING

Edition 3 - 2019 • FREE

do and you’ve got to work hard, and I think having that through my childhood, my mum and dad were really hard workers – they instilled that in me and my sister at a young age. Then I had the passion to want to play at the highest level and mum and dad just guided me along the way, helping me what to do and always setting me in that right direction. But the thing I loved, and still now getting up there, it’s just the wide open spaces and the people in the town are amazing – you can’t beat a country community. Everyone is so connected and wants to know each other, and coming back now when you’re away all year, just coming back and relaxing, I was sort of thinking about it on the way home it’s quite peaceful in a way. You’ve got the river, you’ve got the ground I used to play at, mates that I come and see, and it’s just free from the city and the traffic. You get on a country road and you go to where you want to go – that’s probably the thing that I miss.

So you do miss the country?

In a way, like the wide open spaces I spoke about then, but I’m loving it down here because I love what I’m doing, I love playing footy and I love the people I’ve met, love the coaches and all that sort of stuff. It’s always good to get back up at Christmas time and seeing the family and friends, but I’m really loving Melbourne and the club that I’m at.

Do you have a favourite spot on the river?

Not really, I’m not a massive skier. I love getting on the biscuit and having a muck around, but me and one of my mates just normally go for a kick down at the oval and then just go down to Rowers Park, so for me it’s pretty casual. If there’s a boat out I’ll just jump on behind that.

How often do you come back up to Corowa?

Maybe three times a year, once during the middle of the year and then end of season and Christmas time.

Did you get away anywhere with your time off post season?

End of season we went to Phuket for a footy trip which was good, then I came home for three weeks back to Corowa and back down to get settled into the routine and the swing of things before getting stuck into pre-season.

Apart from footy what are some of your hobbies?

It’s really something that I’m starting to just discover and find out now. I did a bit of landscaping work with a bloke last year on our days off and I love the American football – it probably sounds a bit weird but I study all that stuff.

Which team do you follow?

Arizona Cardinals.

I love doing that, watching their games and studying that. But this year will definitely be a year where I look to find something outside of footy that interests me.

Obviously footy consumes a lot and it’s what we love doing but you’ve also got to have that thing you do that takes footy off your mind for a day or so.

You really need that and Dimma’s (Richmond coach Damien Hardwick) really big on us doing something outside of footy.

So would you become an NFL punter?

That was actually a dream as a kid as well, to play AFL and then go on and be a punter afterwards. It’s definitely still in the mind, obviously I’m heavily concentrated on my AFL career right now. A few of the boys are over there; Ben Lennon and Griff (Ben Griffiths) who I played with are over there now punting in college. I’m really keen to see those boys do well and when I head over to America at the end of this year I’ll definitely go and see them.

What’s your main goal for 2019?

My main goal is to just keep improving. Keep learning off the coaches and players, keep getting better then hopefully string a few more games together. But I just want to see it as another growth and improving year really, you can never stop getting better. We want to be the best at what we do so that’ll be my goal. I’m not going to put a number on how many games I want to play, I just want to let that unfold throughout the year, keep playing my role and doing for the club what I have to in order to be successful – and keep enjoying it.

17

Garthwaite recorded a 100 per cent kicking efficiency against the Cats last year. Here he is clearing the ball from defence. Photo: AAP.

meetings by the vines

The energetic and nimble team at Tuileries, can help plan and deliver fun, memorable experiences at every touchpoint of events.

Offering bespoke packages to bring every event to life – from residential conferences/ engaging corporate sleepovers; challenging team-building or gala dinners, Tuileries offers a fresh location for fresh ideas.

It’s little wonder that Tuileries has such an enviable reputation for hosting knockout events with professionalism, style and tractor-loads of country hospitality.

romance by the vines

The Tuileries team offer seamless service, expert advice and a detailed approach to weddings, delivering memorable stress-free experiences every time.

The serenity and genuine calmness of the wedding garden with its stunning vineyard backdrop, provides that perfectly dreamy and tranquil setting for the wedding ceremony.

Classically elegant white wedding lawn furniture and gazebo complete the picture, with the delightful Mediterranean Courtyard on standby, as a wet weather option.

The historic wine cellar with its eclectic blend of understated elegance and industrial heritage, provides a unique venue for the special day, catering for up to 120 guests seated at beautifully presented round tables.

Tuileries offers a variety of menu options tailored to suit all wedding styles, from 3-course individually prepared restaurant style meals or grand buffet spreads to cocktail style canapes or grazing plates. Whatever menustyle is selected, the same impeccable service, attention to detail and best local produceinspired cuisines are guaranteed.

stay

The 12 King Vineyard suites embody the rustic, yet refined character of wine country, featuring private terraces and inspiring views of the undulating neighbourhood vineyards.

It’s understated stylish, with cheerful colours and plenty of home comforts, channelling a cosy, yet cool vibe and leaving the knockout views to do all the bragging.

Historic and modern influences set the style for an elegant conversion of the historic Bonded Liquor Store (circa 1900) into four ‘rustic-luxe’ two bedroom units, ideal for up to four guests.

Rutherglen Estates & Tuileries Wine country living From humble beginnings as an 1886 cellar and the home of Seppelts Wines for over 100 years, Rutherglen Estates Cellar Door tells a rich and powerful story of the region’s wine history. This latest incarnation as a repurposed Cellar Door and Aboriginal Exhibitions Gallery, starts a new narrative for the iconic winery.

Rutherglen Estates intelligently crafts true-to-style awardwinning alternative wine varietals. The fusion of talent and technology in the winemaking process, results in wines of intense varietal flavour, complexity and regional character, each with a personality that reflects the ‘ground’ from which it has come.

This journey of how the grapes got to the glass, is just one of the immersive and engaging experiences visitors can expect when they are welcomed to Rutherglen Estate’s cellar door.

eat

At the heart of the precinct, is an alfresco courtyard complete with fountain and café. The look is Frenchbistro with a casual country charm, offering a relaxed and easy eating experience. A popular breakfast spot for the locals, the menu delivers all the trusty favourites with a few local-inspired surprises and plenty of healthy options.

Tuileries restaurant and bar, picks up the tempo with its rural cool and timeless glamour. This is where chef, Christophe Niklaus’ talents really shine, with thoughtful and inventive modern interpretations of many French classics.

Sourcing nourishing home-grown goodness from the bountiful region, as well as his much-loved kitchengarden, Christophe is a strong advocate of the ‘farm to fork philosophy. An ‘open-door’ invite for local producers to drop by the kitchen with fresh produce, keeps regional flavours the ‘headline act’ on a starstudded menu.

Tuileries Wine Bar is much-loved by the locals for ‘knock-off’ drinks with its playful cocktail menu, elegant mixes and local, Australian and international wines. It offers a swish, upbeat vibe where visitors and locals and can kick back and relax, Rutherglen style!

The wine list is full of the local legends, as well as some national and international award winners.

Rutherglen Estates Cellar door open daily 10am – 5.30pm Aboriginal Exhibitions Gallery open daily 10am – 5.30pm Tuileries courtyard café daily 12pm – 2pm Tuileries Restaurant daily from 6.30pm 13-35 Drummond Street, Rutherglen VIC 3685 Tuileries 02 6032 9033 www.tuileriesrutherglen.com.au

Rutherglen Estates 02 6032 7999 www.rutherglenestates.com.au

MRL MURRAY RIVER LIVING

Edition 3 - 2019 • FREE

WORLD'S BEST SHOW SKIERS COMING The Australian team performing a pyramid at the 2018 Ski Show World Championships.

By Jared Loughnan

"It's water-skiing on steroids, and I can't wait to see the best skiers in the world competing here," local water-skiing legend Peter O'Neill says excitedly.

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or the Mulwala Water Ski Club professional and coach it was a proud moment to be rewarded as the host venue for the 2020 Ski Show World Championships.

“The show skiing worlds are incredible. Nowhere else will you see this sort of talent altogether here in Australia,” Pete said.

“Acts like the seven man front flip off the ski jump needs to be seen to be believed. The swivel tricks the girls do are amazing and the

shows that are put on are amazing also.

“It’s been a dream to host worlds for the last six or seven years but in 2017 at the Ski Show Nationals (held at the Max Kirwin Ski Parks) we had all of the important decision makers for Show Ski Australia present and from there the idea grew into a bid for the 2020 worlds and now we have won the right to host them.

“We know we will get six countries to come; Belgum, Germany, China, USA and Canada. But Mexico were at the 2018 World Championship to watch and look like they will enter and the New Zealanders are building a team up as well so we might end up with eight

including us.

“If you like skiing you have to go to a show ski worlds in your lifetime. And now we have one in our area, it will be amazing.”

Pete said there is a lot of work to do attracting sponsorship and funding but knows it will be all worth it with thousands of spectators expected to witness the amazing skiing spectacle.

The official announcement was made in Canada after another successful performance of the talented Australian team that finished second in the championships.

Remarkably the team of 35 featured 24 skiers

The Australian team, including a large swivel line (pictured from 2018), will be keen to improve on their second placing at the last World Championships by defeating the dominant US team.

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MRL MURRAY RIVER LIVING

Edition 3 - 2019 • FREE

HUG E RANG E O F

Belmore ~ CUR TAI NS ~

Flips off the jump are always a highlight of show skiing.

from the Mulwala Water Ski Club and were only beaten by the might of the US team.

Mulwala Water Ski Club President Len Langford said it was an amazing effort by the Australian team headed up by locals Brant Ryan and Pete O’Neill, the team’s two show directors that have put on the local ski show for years.

“I am over the moon,” Len said. “We have been trying to get this for a number of years.

“These guys have put a lot of time into this and now we will see a major world skiing spectacle not seen before in Australia in our town.

“This will be really good for the community and we need everyone to get behind us as we now have lot of work to do.”

Mr Langford said the club have big plans for the Max Kirwin Ski Parks to bring it up to world standard for show skiing.

“We will need to upgrade the amenities, facilities and the ski park needs to be altered to fit with show skiing,” he said.

Mr Langford said the park’s upgrades have the full support of the board and the club will also be seeking grants.

“This is an event that will attract the national interest,” he said.

Mr Langford expects the championship’s media coverage to be great for the community.

The Mulwala Water Ski Club is no stranger to holding world class ski events. It has hosted the Junior World Championships and the World Disabled Championships so this will be another milestone event for the club.

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A large contingent of Mulwala Water Ski Club members, including Bowden Stawhorn and Kate Green, featured in the last worlds team.

21

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MRL MURRAY RIVER LIVING

Edition 3 - 2019 • FREE

A FEDERATION FEAST IN AN ODDFELLOWS HALL

By Robert Muir

The idea of a Federation Dinner and Tim Fischer Oration was raised about six years ago by Corowa's John Law when he was treasurer for the town's Federation Festival.

“

When Rotary took over the festival, I brought it up again and it got more support, as we were trying to give the whole Federation Festival a reboot, including the parade and market,” he told MRL. “I thought the Federation Festival needed an event to get the weekend off to a solid start and a dinner to celebrate Corowa as the birthplace of Federation seemed like a good thing.

“Then came the oration, we kicked around some ideas for name; first it was Sir John Quick, but that had some issues around permission from family and broad recognition of his role in federation.”

The name Tim Fischer was suggested and it all fitted, given his long term association with Corowa through State and Federal politics.

Mr Fischer readily gave his permission, “if somewhat puzzled by our request,” according to Mr Law. The choice of venue was easy, it had to be the Oddfellows Hall because of its significance in the history of Federation.

The original format from the inaugural 2016 dinner hasn’t changed, to have dinner and special guest speaker, at breakeven cost to make it an affordable event.

“The naming of the presentation came about after discussions with Rotarians Gary Poidevin and Graeme Campbell as well as some people involved in the Corowa District Historical Society,” Mr Law said.

“We thought having a named presentation would provide an evening with more credibility and help attract attendees.

“The defence band playing last year was Gary Poidevin’s (immediate past Rotary president) idea and what a great success it was especially given our speaker was Major General Shane Caughy.”

It was another great selection as speaker for the fourth annual Federation Dinner on January 25, 2019 with Assistant Commissioner of NSW Police, Michael Corboy. Both Shane and Michael grew up in the local area and attended Corowa High School.

At this year’s dinner, which was attended by 103 people, Master of Ceremonies and Rotary Club of Corowa President Bill Bott AM praised John Law for coming up with the idea of a Federation Dinner and continued with praise, incorporating Shirley Nolan OAM. “If John is the Father of the Federation Dinner and Tim Fischer Oration, Shirley is the Mother of the Federation Festival,” Mr Bott said.

John and Gail Law joined Corowa Rotary in 2002. John’s official capacity record is so impressive: on the board for all but his first full year in the club, president twice, treasurer six times, foundation director, public relations director, market director and vice president twice. And came up with the idea of an excellent Federation Dinner!

Pictured at the fourth annual Federation Dinner and TIM Fischer Oration, in 2019; from left, Gary Poidevin OAM, John Law, Bill Bott AM and Shirley Nolan OAM.

Corowa the birthplace of Federation Prior to 1901 Australia was a group of six separate colonies, each governed by its own Parliament but with no Federal Parliament joining together and dealing with matters of common interest.

It was the Corowa Federation League that organised a Conference in Corowa at the Oddfellows Hall on 31 July chaired by Mr A.A. Piggin and soon after in August 1893 Dr John Quick proposed a motion that was to change both the direction and place of Federation.

The 1895 Premier’s Conference accepted Quick’s proposals and in 189798 the second Constitutional Convention met and produced a draft constitution which was put to the people at referendums in 1898 and 1899. (1900 in Western Australia).

Sufficient support was gained at the final referendums for the bill to be taken to the British Parliament for enactment and on the 17th of September 1900 Queen Victoria signed the proclamation announcing that Federation would be inaugurated on the 1st January 1901.

This Federation was achieved after a process lasting 50 years and the commonwealth of Australia was proclaimed.

The Oddfellows Hall The Oddfellows Hall was originally constructed by the Loyal Border Lodge of the Manchester Unity Order of Oddfellows. Construction commenced on this site in May 1886 and the finished hall was handed over to the Oddfellows in July 1886. The stage was not part of the original construction being added to the building in 1890.

The hall remained in the ownership of the Oddfellows until 1905 when it was sold to local timber merchants, Sammons and Edwards.

In 2001 Corowa Shire Council with the assistance of a Commonwealth Federation Fund Grant purchased the site and restored the Oddfellows Hall as Centenary of Federation project.

The hall has an important place helping shape Australia’s Federation History which led to Corowa becoming known as the ‘Birthplace of Federation’.

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MRL MURRAY RIVER LIVING

Edition 3 - 2019 • FREE

PFEIFFER WINES

A WINNING WINE TALE From "pfine" wine and "pfantastic pfood" to many great art shows and "pfestivals" , there's always something new to experience at Pfeiffer Wines.

N

estled in the historic Rutherglen wine region, exploring the grounds of the winery is truly an experience in itself with its historic cellars and a century old timber bridge over Sunday Creek where long-necked native terrapin “pfrolic” in the calm waters.

Pfeiffer Wines is a renowned second generation wine making family, run by father and daughter team, Chris and Jen Pfeiffer.

The winery produces over 30 award winning wines….in “pfact” there is a wine for every course of a dinner party.

Visitors are always made to feel welcome for tastings and sales and cheese platters are available every day. For those looking for a unique experience, delicious Pfeiffer Picnic Hampers are available every day of the year except Tuesdays.

The award-winning winery has claimed many accolades over the years, but 2018 was particularly successful, with trophies being

awarded at the Victorian Wine Show for Most Successful Exhibitor and Best Cabernet in Show along with a Top Gold medal award at the Royal Hobart Wine Show.

The wineries Classic Rutherglen Muscat was also nominated by the prestigious UK Wine Writer Matthew Jukes as one of the Top 100 Australian wines for the year.

In total the winery was awarded two trophies, three top gold medals, 19 gold medals, 29 silver medals and 29 bronze medals in 2018.

James Halliday recognised the winery as a 5-Star Winery for the 10th consecutive year and a 5-Star Trip Advisor Certificate of

24

Excellence was awarded to the winery for the fourth consecutive year.

Annual events include the popular Scarecrow, Sausages and Shiraz festival on the NSW Labour Day long weekend on October 5 and 6 and the Artisan Christmas Market and Carols

By The Creek on December 1st. Pfeiffer Wines also host seasonal farmers markets in April, July, September and December.

On a larger scale the winery participates in popular wine festivals including the Rutherglen Winery Walkabout and Tastes of Rutherglen.

Most months an Artist in Residence is featured and between December and January the winery’s Bridge Bar operates each afternoon where a selection of award-winning Pfeiffer wines and wine cocktails are served beside the old timber bridge overlooking picturesque views of Sunday Creek.

Turtle “pfeeding” and platypus spotting from the bridge is a highlight during the months from November to May. Wine lovers looking to indulge in a bargain can do so during the winery’s annual Giant Warehouse Sale, always held on the Friday before the Winery Walkabout.

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MRL MURRAY RIVER LIVING

Edition 3 - 2019 • FREE

ROCKET MAN TO TOUCH DOWN ON THE MURRAY

By Jarryd Barca

It's not every day a celebrity of Sir Elton John's calibre makes his way to our country region.

T

he world-wide legend is performing at All Saints Estate in Wahgunyah next January as part of an epic 15-date Australian leg of his global tour Farwell Yellow Brick Road Tour.

And it’s primed to be the biggest live musical performance ever seen in the area.

“The reaction has been amazing,” All Saints Estate owner Eliza Brown said.

“All of the locals are very excited as are we.

Just to get an act like that in RutherglenWahgunyah, and regional Victoria, is pretty phenomenal.

“I think we all need to look at it as a massive

Legendary music icon Sir Elton John is set blow local fans away in what is deemed to be the biggest musical performance the region has hosted.

opportunity for the region to shine.”

The 71-year-old musician has performed a staggering 4,000-plus show in more than 80 countries, with 38 gold records, 31 platinum and multi-platinum albums and over 50 top 40 hits.

He has also sold more than 30 million records worldwide and was recently crowned by Billboard as the most successful performing male solo artist of all time.

His venture to the country is a big deal, with many locals left disappointed after being

26

unable to secure high-demand tickets to the event.

Rutherglen’s Wine Village Motor Inn completely booked out all rooms next January, half of which were sold within a minute of tickets going on sale.

Elton John is looking forward to delivering his famed songbook to spellbound audiences. He will be joined by longstanding band members Nigel Olsson on drums (part of Elton’s original three-piece band in 1970), esteemed musical director Davey Johnstone (who first recorded

Experience Lake Mulwala and the Mighty Murray with

Departs Yarrawonga foreshore ~ Bookings essential Pictured is 8,500 fans at the 2019 A Day on the Green concert featuring Missy Higgins and John Butler Trio, more than 10,000 are expected for Elton John’s arrival next year.

Photography by Neil McCarthy

~ Fully Licensed bar ~ Interior viewing windows to underwater paddles ~ Two large upper & lower decks undercover with seating ~ Viewing balcony to the original steam/boiler room ~ Ever changing seasonal panorama

with Elton in 1971 and joined the band a year later) on guitar, virtuoso Ray Cooper on percussion, Matt Bissonette on bass, John Mahon on percussion, and Kim Bullard on keyboards.

“Elton’s continuing love affair with Australia knows no bounds, proven by this farewell tour, and the breadth and depth of the itinerary, showing his commitment to his many Australian fans,” promoter Michael Chugg said.

“On his very last tour, he wanted to return to some of his favourite cities, while also playing for fans in a couple of never-before-visited locations.”

The milestone itinerary comprises more than 300 shows across five continents, spanning three years, with stops in Europe, North America, Asia, South America, Australia and New Zealand, and marks the last tour of its kind by the celebrated songwriter and iconic showman.

Audiences will experience a rare glimpse into Elton’s life, and the deeply personal meaning behind some of his greatest hits, via mesmerising, never-before-seen images and videos displayed throughout the show from his incredible 50-year career.

“Playing live to other human beings is the greatest gift any artist UN AR could ever have,” Sir Elton John said.

IFO WE RK R O my first visit in “I always love coming back to Australia. Ever since 1971 it has held a very special place in my heart.

“I’m ecstatic and humbled to continue to play for audiences across the globe. I plan to bring to my final tour the passion and creativity that has entertained my fans for decades ... It’s the most produced and fantastic show I’ve ever done. I want to go out with a bang.”

Beginning in Pennsylvania, USA in September 2018, A N Elton John’sY R DE DE M B R O Ibeen three-year Farewell Yellow Brick Road global tour has already hailed as one of his most “energetic, dazzlingly and joyful 97-99original Belmore Street, Yarrawonga Ph 03 5744 1269 celebrations”.

E: juddsyarra@netspace.net.au A bumper crowd more than 10,000 people is expected to flock to the Wahgunyah winery next January to witness potentially the greatest performance the region will ever see.

info@cumberoona.com.au • 0477 666 099 www.cumberoona.com.au

W

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97-99 Belmore Street, Yarrawonga Ph 03 5744 1269 E: juddsyarra@netspace.net.au

UN IFO R S M

AR WE RK O

A Day on the Green runs in the summer months from October – March with around 30 concerts per season in the all major wine-growing regions around Australia, with audiences generally ranging from young children to a much older demographic.

This year at All Saints Estate, Aussie music icons John Butler Trio and Missy Higgins joined forces to perform in front of around AN 8,500 excited fans, with Dan Sultan and Stella Donnelly D E roundingE RY M BR OID out the quality list of performers.

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~ Captain welcomes visit to Wheel House ~ Interior seating & tables ~ Wheelchair friendly with disabled toilet ~ History gallery ~ Toilets on board ~ Souvenirs ~ Complimentary tea/coffee & water service ~ Kids first mate Certificates & coloring

97-99 Belmore Street, Yarrawonga Ph 03 5744 1269 E: juddsyarra@netspace.net.au

97-99 Belmore Street, Yarrawonga

97-99 Belmore Street, Ph 03 5744 1269 Yarrawonga Ph: 5744 1269 E: juddsyarra@netspace.net.au

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MRL MURRAY RIVER LIVING

Edition 3 - 2019 • FREE

Móeesha has grown up around the animals and forms a bond with every species including the blue tongue lizards who are looking to roam.

With a number of differing species calling Moah’s Ark home at a time, many become unlikely friends

NEVER A DULL DAY AT WILDLIFE SHELTER

By Emma Prior

A day in the life of any parent can be hectic but to be mum to countless differing animals at one time is just the day to day norm for one Yarrawonga wildlife carer.

L

oretta Saunders and her daughter Móeesha are used to disrupted sleep as they operate Moah’s Ark, an emergency 24-hour rescue and rehabilitation service for injured, orphaned and displaced native wildlife within Yarrawonga and surrounding districts.

The wildlife shelter can on average have around 125 -140 native wildlife per month to rescue and rehabilitate with many requiring daily antibiotics, pain remedies, fluid therapy, physio and various other forms of treatment.

Loretta, who has been involved in the wildlife industry for over 15 years, shares how every rescue is different and it can sometimes be quite complex to achieve the result the shelter requires.

“Our focus and primary goal are to rescue, rehabilitate and release our native wildlife back to their natural habitat,” Loretta said.

“Species that we rescue and rehabilitate include koalas, echidnas, kangaroos, wallaby’s, platypus, wombats, birds, birds of prey, water fowl, and numerous reptiles.

“But release is the most rewarding part of

what we do. To see that animal back in its native habitat is an inspiration.

“Each animal that comes into care has a unique personality and their ability to trust is remarkable.

“Per annum we rescue over 1,500 native species but this number increases greatly when the environment is impacted by extreme heat conditions, tornados, floods, drought, strong winds, changes in water conditions, etc.”

A typical day at the shelter always begins with preparations of formulas and bottle feeding for the numerous marsupials in care.

“All formulas and feeds must be indicative to that particular animal. For example, you cannot feed a kangaroo joey the same formula that you would feed a baby koala joey as their little systems are totally different and the formulas are made in accordance to the nutritional requirements of each species,” Loretta said.

“As a result, all species food and formulas must be kept on hand.

“Depending on night feeds which can often be every 2-3 hours, our day typically starts around 6.30am-7am with all formulas freshly prepared for the benefit of the joeys.

“Toileting, pouch changing, bathing, skin

29

treatments, exercise and the likes are daily rituals for our little ones in care. The last night time feeds are around 11pm but can continue throughout the night, as do emergency rescues. No two days are ever the same.”

Loretta said two hourly feeds throughout a 24-hour period are very common so lack of sleep is a regular occurrence.

With numerous feedings done throughout the course of a day /night, in between rescues and treatments, the girls attempt to keep feeds and treatments as routine and natural as possible for the benefit of the animals.

“When our little joeys come into care, it can take them several days to adapt and acclimatize to the different conditions,” she said.

“Becoming adept at bottle-feeding and grieving for their mums can be a challenging time. Supporting their various stages of development and aiding their instinctual behaviour is paramount to the animal’s welfare.

“It’s rather like education. They have to be helped along so they develop natural instincts to aid in their survival when released back to their habitat.”

Kangaroos, wallabies, wombats and koala joeys can be in care for lengthy periods of

MRL MURRAY RIVER LIVING

Edition 3 - 2019 • FREE

More often than not offspring are brought in after an incident has occurred to mum but ‘families’ can often be seen too.

time until they are weaned and old enough to be independent and fend for themselves.

Macropods can be in care for 18 months, so it is a lengthy process.

After all animals are fed and preparations are done for next feeds, which includes formulas, mice, rats, mealworms, snails, moths, fruits, fresh water etc, then it’s time to collect all the native browse required such as eucalyptus leaves, willow, tea tree barks, bamboo, bottle brush, salt bush, wattles, roses, grevillea, and grasses.

This process can take up to an hour or so to collect.

On return, all enclosures are cleaned and prepared with fresh browse before its then time to repeat feeds.

“Many of our nocturnal animals such as possums, gliders, owl species are covered and kept quiet during the day. Hollows and nesting boxes are provided to assimilate what they would sleep in out in the wild. The dimensions of each nesting box are species specific,” Loretta said.

“The foods that they would catch out in the wild, such as mice for owls are provided for them at night.

“Breeding mice, mealworms, worms, etc is undertaken at the shelter too as they can be extremely expensive to continually buy. A 1kg bag of mealworms is $70 and mice are around $3 each.

“It is nothing to go through 15-20 mice a day and 1kg of mealworms in 5 days. To keep the mealworm’s and mice alive, we need to feed them regularly also.”

Some evenings after midnight Loretta can be called to animals that have been hit by vehicles or caught in fences and require immediate attention.

Over the heat wave of early 2019, hundreds of calls were directed to Moah’s Ark to assist heat affected animals. Koalas, possums, gliders and a wide variety of birds were affected all displaying severe signs of heat stroke.

Nocturnal animals such as owls have cover and are kept quiet during the day.

Koalas are a regular visitor during heatwaves and can stay for a lengthy period of time.

Providing care and cooler treatments over these extreme days can be necessary to aid their recovery with all outside enclosures specifically fitted with good quality misting systems.

For Loretta, Móeesha and their team of three foster carers, rescues are a daily occurrence.

There is never a day where they are not called to an injured/orphaned/displaced native species with some of these rescues taking hours to safely and successfully retrieve the animal.

As Yarrawonga is surrounded by the lake and Murray River, fishing line and hook entanglement regularly occurs in waterbirds, platypus and turtle species such as the endangered broad shelled turtle.

If an animal has been entangled, whether it be in the water or 30 metres caught up a tree, a safe and lengthy rescue is in order.

As well as the long hours, a vast amount of Loretta’s own money goes towards feeds and consumables as well as rescue equipment.

However, the community is generous, and donations are often received which also goes towards feeding and medicating the animals.

“People are generous and have that compassion and understand what we are trying to do,” Loretta said.

Just to feed one kangaroo joey with all the nutrients they require during their developmental stages and eventual release is $1500.

Natural remedies are regularly sourced from the wild to be made into infusions, balms, liniments, ointments, oils, sprays etc.

The treatments are kept as natural as possible and the homeopathic supplies are regularly sourced from the environment.

Education is also a huge part of what the

30

shelter does.

“We provide free educational programmes for our young children in the district in both preschool, primary and secondary level,” Loretta said.

“We offer lectures to all community groups with a focus on how to help our native species and in addition, we provide placement to those students who are interested in the animal industry both at senior, tafe and university level.

“Our Facebook site is also utilised as an educational tool for members of the community. In addition, every patient that comes into care is recorded and specific details documented for the purpose of statistical data for the benefit of our governing body.”

Staff of the shelter also regularly attend various courses to continue to update their skills which will ultimately benefit the animals.

But there is nothing else Loretta would want to be doing.

“It is by far the most intense but most rewarding thing I have done. I have had numerous careers throughout my life, but this is, without a doubt, the most gratifying and fulfilling, apart from having my most beautiful daughter and sidekick that is.”

About Moah’s Ark Volunteer wildlife shelter offering emergency 24-hour rescue and rehabilitation service for injured, orphaned and displaced native wildlife within Yarrawonga and surrounding districts.

Moah’s Ark is licensed by the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning which the shelter work under the guidance of.

Team of two at wildlife shelter with three foster carers.

Mostly rescue and rehabilitate Australian natives.

Rescue on average 140 animals per month.

Discover Educational Excellence

INTEGRITY | ENDEAVOUR | COMMUNITY Cobram Anglican Grammar School 40 – 48 Campbell Rd, Cobram Ph: 03 5871 1816 Fax: 03 5871 1113 Email: admin@cags.vic.edu.au Website: www.cags.vic.edu.au

HEALTH

Sharing Your Unique Personal Journey

Pregnancy is such a precious time in life and Yarrawonga Health is there to help you make the most of it by empowering mothers, instilling confidence and trust that your body will do exactly what it was designed to do in a safe, supportive and nurturing environment – close to home.

We partner with you to build strong foundations to prepare you for your birth and to nurture, strengthen and sustain your confidence, health and wellbeing during your post-natal period and beyond.

Our highly skilled team of professionals are there to support you in your desires for a safe childbirth in which you feel empowered, respected, and in control. We will guide you with education and experience toward the individual experience and birth you have visualised as we endeavour to tailor your maternity care path close to home. We believe each mother and baby is unique and every journey a personal one, We would love the opportunity to support your family on your birth journey, whether you’re just starting out or you’ve been walking this path for some time.

We look forward to helping you! Find out more from our friendly maternity team on 03 57438135.

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Nathan Pavey, pictured here with his proud father Paul, is excited to be performing in such a well-known musical.

BULLIED TO BROADWAY

By Jarryd Barca

– PAVEY GETS THE LAST LAUGH

"Don't listen to what anyone else has to say, at the end of the day you have to do what makes you happy. If you love something don't let it go because someone is giving you grief for it, just keep going because it'll work out in the end... it'll definitely work out in the end."

M

ature beyond his years, 18-yearold Corowa local Nathan Pavey knows all about overcoming high school bullying.

Once he reached Year 7, the talented dancer was treated as the odd one out by other students because he wasn’t interested in sports like the other boys.

This pushed Nathan to the brink of scrapping dancing altogether. But instead he was focusing on the hobby that made him happy, a career in which he is now making his own.

Pavey, after overcoming the bullying with the help of his many dance teachers and parents, is bound for the globally popular musical ‘West Side Story’ in what will be his professional debut as a dancer after graduating from the Victorian College of the Arts Secondary School (VCASS).

“I’ve built a lot of resilience,” Pavey said of

the bullying. “I think it was just other people encountering something new in a boy who didn’t do the same things that they did. It was not fun, but I’m glad it happened because it’s helped shape me into the person that I am today.

“For a kid to be going through what he was going through to turn around and continue on and say ‘go away’ to all the bullying, (I’m) very proud, because it was really hard.”

“By about Year 8 or 9 it had pretty much stopped, I think some of them had actually seen me dance and think ‘OK, he’s actually good at it’.”

Nathan’s father, Paul, said he is enormously proud of his son. “He’s obviously got the talent but he doesn’t let it go to his head. He treats people so well,” he told Murray River Living.

“From a people point of view and the adversity that he’s gone through with the bullying – (which) was really quite bad – and with the

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help of David Williams and Judy O’Malley he did go to quit at one stage.

“We just talked about doing what you love to do and in the long run it’ll work out the best for you.

“Thanks to David from our perspective, he was a big influence on Nathan continuing.

“For a kid to be going through what he was going through to turn around and continue on and say ‘go away’ to all the bullying, (I’m) very proud, because it was really hard.”

Nathan was successful in his audition as ‘Jets’ member Snow Boy and is excited to now rehearse and perform the role in different Australian states.

He said it’s refreshing to know that his hard work is paying off despite the hardships he has dealt with as a young dancer.

“Especially when you put so much effort into something you can often be really selfcritical,” he said.

“I mean all performers, all dancers, everyone is really self-critical because it’s something that you love so much and you really do want

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Pavey, after overcoming the bullying with the help of his many dance teachers and parents, is bound for the globally popular musical ‘West Side Story’.

to be good at it, and it’s things like this that remind you that you’re doing the right thing and it’s not all for nothing.”

Nathan spent nine years at Judy O’Malley’s School of Dance after being encouraged to join at the age of four by his parents, aiming for their son to develop confidence skills.

From there he was given a New York scholarship before beginning full-time study in Melbourne at VCASS. Nathan was recommended to audition for ‘West Side Story’ by jazz teacher and mentor Tanya Mintford. “She said the auditions were coming and thought I should do it,” he said.

“At that time and finishing Year 12, I knew I wanted to dance and do something within the performing arts industry but I was really torn - I had a bunch of different places I could’ve gone.

“This was something else I could look at. I did it, wasn’t really expecting anything. I went and did the audition then had a call back, got on a shortlist and then I got It.

“To get to do it so young and straight out of school is insane,” Nathan added.

Whether it’s perseverance and dedication to the cause or a natural talent, Nathan said his mother will always believe that his passion for dancing stems from his love of the Wiggles

Nathan will be performing as character ‘Snow Boy’ from the Jets.

West Side Story is a musical with book by Arthur Laurents, music by Leonard Bernstein and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim. The musical explores the rivalry between the Jets and the Sharks, two teenage street gangs of different ethnic backgrounds.

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as a youngster. “Performing, dancing and moving my body is just something that has always come naturally, it just feels right to do it. I think that’s a big part of why I enjoy it. I like everything about it,” Nathan said.

Snow Boy is a late teen bespectacled, selfstyled expert with a baritone voice who fancies himself as the smart one of the ‘Jets’ gang. Nathan is also understudying for the role ‘Action’, who is seen to be the most aggressive member of the group.

The four years spent at Melbourne’s VCASS were the best years of Nathan’s life who, while admitting it was difficult living away from his family, was able to surround himself with people with the same interests that allowed him to work more on his priority – dancing.

“I wouldn’t change it for anything. There were a few times even then where I went ‘is this really for me, is this just too hard and not worth it?’ but I had a really good support system in my family, friends and teachers that kept me going, I’m so glad I didn’t stop,” he said.

Nathan said the training loads at VCASS were intense with just three hours of normal academics, but it was all worth it in the end.

“In Corowa I did about two classes a week in the evenings about two hours each. We’d have sport on a Wednesday afternoon and rather than doing something with school I would go to the dance hall and dance with Judy who would teach me some ballet,” Nathan said.

“Once I got into VCASS it really ramped up where 8.30am to 5.30pm was a normal day.

Sometimes you would even have a full 12hour day.

“That was Monday through to Friday and sometimes extra classes on the weekend too.”

Nathan is currently in Sydney partaking in rehearsals for his role, before flying back to Melbourne in April to begin previews and opening night.

His role will also see him travel to Canberra, Adelaide, New Zealand and Germany, all up finishing on December 2.

“It’s a pretty full year ahead,” Nathan said.

He also praised everyone who has had an input and helped him through a rocky but satisfying journey over the past five years.

“I’m so thankful for Tanya Mintford from VCASS - I wouldn’t be doing this without her, she was my mentor when I was in Melbourne,” Nathan said.

“Judy O’Malley, David Williams from VCASS, my family - it’s like I have multiple parents with all of the support that I’ve had, I’ve been very lucky, and also Ian and Sarah from Ian White Management who Tanya got me into contact with, they’ve been fantastic helping me through it all because it has been a terrifying experience.”

Buller Wines... your destination

Established in 1921, Buller Wines blends a century of tradition with contemporary wine making to create exceptional wines.

A local family owned winery that has been rejuvenated over the past four years under the stewardship of the Judd family and local winemaker Dave Whyte to become a destination winery in the Rutherglen region.

Enjoy lunch at the latest addition to the winery - Ripe at Buller Wines Restaurant - which overlooks the Shiraz and Muscat vines. The restaurant is already gaining a reputation as a destination for foodies in the area.

Ripe has already proved to be a major attraction and is rapidly becoming synonymous with great events including weddings and the upcoming Night on the Red which takes place as part of the Tastes of Rutherglen festival over the March long weekend.

With more than 30 wines on tasting there is something for everyone at Buller Wines cellar door, from Prosecco to 50-year-old rare Muscat and sensational red and white table wines.

This year’s biggest mover in the wine market is Rose and at Buller Wines we have crafted a brilliant Rose from Old Vine Grenache.

It takes a lot of skill, passion and energy to take on the role of Chief Winemaker at Buller Wines. Since 2012, Buller Wines have been lucky to find all these traits in Dave Whyte who has the task of balancing our 98 years of tradition and yet bring his own style and knowledge to the business as we continue to grow and develop.

Dave’s skills have been utilised in every facet of the redevelopment of Buller Wines as he has overseen the rejuvenation and planting of the vineyard, the equipment upgrade to the winery and, most importantly, the introduction of a new range of wines that have already received excellent reviews.

As a local person, Dave has an intrinsic understanding of the wines of this region and brings this experience to every bottle we produce.

Make Buller Wines your destination for great wines, fine food and fabulous events.

Check us out at www.bullerwines.com.au or on Facebook and Instagram.

Restaurant open Wednesday – Sunday from 11am - 3pm The Buller Wines Cellar Door is open 10am to 5pm, 7 days a week.

Closed Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day. 2804 Federation Way, Rutherglen, 3685 Phone (02) 6032 9660.

Ph 02 6032 9660 www.bullerwines.com.au 2804 Federation Way , Rutherglen

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WINERY'S CHINA LOVE

By Jarryd Barca

The importance of successfully sailing through the rigours of agriculture and identifying promising markets can't go understated in a country town such as Rutherglen in an industry as competitive as wine.

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Buller Wines co-owners Gerald Judd, Mick Murtagh, Dave Whyte and Paul Squires pictured in the vineyard situated off Federation Way.

uller wines has been kicking goals for a long time, but particularly since the Federation Way winery underwent a change of ownership in 2013.

The near 98-year-old complex has received significant investment into its infrastructure and remains a key pillar of Rutherglen’s fine wine region – which consists of 19 different wineries.

Upgrades in the past five years at Bullers have included a whole new winery capable of doing 3,000 bottles of wine per hour, new crushing plant, new warehouse and logistics area, upgrades to cellar door and a modernised restaurant.

One of Buller Wines’ four owner Paul Squires said it is important to upgrade the facility and stay ahead of the eight ball.

“This is a very competitive industry both at a local, state, national and international level,”

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Mr Squires told Murray River Living.

“Our efforts have all been around ensuring that we’ve got the most efficient plan and equipment necessary to make quality wine and storage facilities.

“On top of that we sought to improve our grounds to attract more customers to the cellar door and of course with our restaurant, to increase the offer that we have here at cellar door.

“So all of those things combined have resulted in significant improvements in the vineyard, in our winery, in storage and in distribution, resulting in greater levels of efficiency and our capacity to compete in the market place.”

Particularly through Buller Wines’ restaurant development, they have subsequently noticed an increase in attendance at cellar door, conveying the importance of boosting tourism.

“We’re also able to offer regional businesses greater level of experience when they arrive here, so we’ve been able to combine with local bus groups, we’ve been able to improve our events, so all of this has meant that we’re

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Upgrades in the past five years at Bullers have included improvements to the cellar door and a new modernised restaurant.

AFFAIR Buller Wines’ strong investment in winemaking is reflective in the quality of wines produced by winemaker Dave Whyte.

able to provide a regional offer and regional experience,” Mr Squires said.

“Things like our ‘Night On The Red’, now attracting up to a thousand people each time, that enables those people to book in to local motels, local hotels and they don’t just spend their time here with us, they obviously spend it in a broader sense as well so tourism is extremely important to the north-east.”

Mr Squires said it’s exciting to be a part of the wine industry in a region where wine producing is one of the real linchpins of the area.

“I think one of the best parts about the Rutherglen wine industry is that the members of Winemakers of Rutherglen cooperate very

well so in the last few years we’ve done some really positive things around our cooperative marketing,” he said.

“We believe that’s starting to have an effect.

It is a long term process and we’ve really managed to work well with some partners such as Tourism North East, Wine Australia and other organisations, and that has been reflected in the grants that have been received by not only us but other wineries throughout Rutherglen.

“By working together we establish ourselves as a destination for food and wine people so it’s critical, that we all work together and that’s working really well so that’s certainly an exciting element.”

The co-owner recently travelled to China for the third time since the winery was granted $10,000 last year.

They had already been exporting to the US but recognised China as a major market considering the growth taking place in that country in Australian wine.

“The China market is constantly expanding, there have been a significant amount of orders already in place that we’re currently fulfilling and we’re excited about the opportunity that is there,” Mr Squires said.

“We’re working closely with Wine Australia as part of their promotional campaigns in China, and that export program is now a significant part of our business.

Mr Squires said all different markets he exports to have different requirements. The United States have different requirements based on the separate states which can be complex, and New Zealand and the UK also have specific laws in regards to alcohol levels, distribution and licensing. China is again different. “One of the things that I’ve learnt is that China is an incredibly vibrant country, the cities that I’ve visited so far have had an enormous amount of infrastructure,” Mr Squires said.

“They’re extraordinarily clean, the market is becoming very knowledgeable very quickly in regards to wine quality and I guess one of

37

the things we’ve learnt is that there is a strong appetite for our wines in the premium market which is something we didn’t anticipate, we thought we would be more at the entry level market.

“So the people there have been very welcoming and to date it’s been a very positive place to undertake business, but you have to be competitive and you have to ensure that you remain within the market, you have to attend the shows, you have to have a presence in the market and you have to develop your brand.

“We’re in that brand development stage at the moment and we would hope over the next few years to move from continuing that brand development to ensuring a long term level of sustainability in that market.”

Emphasising Buller Wines’ goal of increasing the customer experience and staying ahead of the ball, they have recently been putting in new entries into the cellar door, pulling up concrete to make the entrance both attractive and safe.

Mr Squires said they are also continuing to review their options when it comes to improving their site in Swan Hill.

“A big part of us is our history,” Mr Squires said.

“In 2021 we’ll be celebrating 100 years so we’re starting to prepare for that now.

“Another thing that differs us is our owners who are four local guys who have been within the north-east for multiple generations.

“Our winemaker is young and enthusiastic and a really knowledgeable person, our viticulturalist Mick who handles our vineyards has his own vineyard, so each of us bring strengths which is a nice balance and it’s good to be involved with local people who have got a long history here but still have the capability to look outside the area for our future growth and future development.”

It’s been 98 years in the making, but the state of Buller Wines and their collective ability to recognise important international markets sees them successfully adding to the fantastic wine region of Rutherglen.

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elly.

Judy K

UNIQUE WOODEN CREATIONS

J

By Emma Prior

“Create with the heart; build with the mind.” ~ Criss Jami

udy Kelly has always been good with her hands and creative flair.

Between her work as a chef at Burkes Hotel in Yarrawonga and her tendency to get bored easily, Judy turned to woodwork projects and creating toys and keepsakes for children and adults alike to occupy her spare time.

Fire trucks, piggy banks, cars towing ‘caravans’ and automotive set ups now inhabit much of the living space of the house Judy shares with her wife Sandra, but neither of them would have it any other way.

“I have always dabbled in the “hands on” approach to life, as a kid I helped my grandparents on their farm, whether that be fixing fences, moving irrigation pipes or painting, I was always doing something,” Judy revealed.

“As a teenager I worked at my parents service station on the weekends and school holidays not only on the pumping station but also in the service bay so when my wife and I bought our home I was confident that I could do or make anything we required.”

From there the purchasing of power tools began and after eight years of building things around the house Judy started to run out of projects, driving her to buy a scroll saw which led her to toymaking.

“The toys turned out really well and I found that this was my new hobby,” she said.

“Despite already having a work shed, our

Judy’s wood creations were published in the Bunnings Handyman Magazine.

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creation so far, but they are the most time consuming purely because of their size as they are around 80cm long.

“The toys turned out really well and I found that this was my new hobby.”

garage that had been transformed into an entertainment area then began to be taken over by wood, toys and paint.”

The length of time between start to finish of a project generally depends on a few variables, firstly Judy’s job and then how complex the project is.

The pig money boxes can be done in a week while other projects could take three to four weeks.

“Fortunately my wife does most of the painting of the toys, so that is a huge help,” Judy said.

“I think the fire engines are probably the best

“The pig money boxes are fun to make and have been very popular as we have them in many differing colours and people of any age can buy and use it as they are a little bit different.

“So far we have sold 30 – 40 of them.”

While Judy creates and builds for her own enjoyment, the reactions and feedback she has received have been fantastic, selling a number of toys via Facebook’s ‘buy swap and sell’ as Christmas gifts as well as taking the odd request to make something for friends’ kids or grandkids.

For now, Judy is happy to continue her hobby of creating special wooden toys.

Who knows, maybe one day we could all have a Judy Kelly creation in our home.

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Call 5873 4340 Vermont Street Barooga Ph: 5873 4340 admin@baroogahotel.com.au

MRL MURRAY RIVER LIVING

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TREE CHANGE SEEKERS GROWING

The population of Yarrawonga and the Moira Shire are growing with more people leaving the hectic city life for country life with wide open spaces, the lake and lots for families to see and do.

By Emma Prior

Moira Shire is attracting its fair share of "tree-changers" looking to leave the hustle and bustle of the big cities and seek a better, more quiet lifestyle in rural Victoria.

I

n the past, rural and country Victoria has been conveyed as one of an ageing population with no job opportunities and a decreasing population. But visit rural Victoria today and you will see growth, generational and cultural variety, a thriving workforce and generally happy people.

Take the Moira Shire and Yarrawonga in particular as an example.

The town is quickly growing out to the east, with new large businesses and industrial

establishments setting up shop and moving to the wider pastures of the town. New housing estates and residential spaces are also growing to the east of Yarrawonga and the north of Mulwala.

In a ten-year period between 2007- 2017 the population increased 7.05% with a job increase of 7.23% in half of this time between 2011 and 2016.

In a modern age with the world at your feet in the big cities and any university degree you could poke a stick at, many millennials are making the big move from their rural homes to the big smoke.

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But more often than not we have seen a large number of students returning to where they were born and bred to find work and start a family.

Currently, Moira’s population stands at 29,655 people with 10,913 of these residents working in the Moira region.

This also represents an estimated 623 jobs that are directly supported by the tourism industry.

With Australia’s population booming, surpassing the 25 million mark in August 2018, Melbourne is the magnet for new

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residents with an annual growth of 125,000 people which could see its present size of 5 million grow to 6 million in the next decade.

Just in inner metro Melbourne alone the population is 568,636 people with a mammoth 717,376 jobs.

Sky high house prices in Melbourne and its growing traffic problems means rural Victoria has never looked so appealing.

‘New’ Yarrawonga residents, the Davis family are just the people to vouch for this.

Stacey Davis along with her family, husband Andrew and two sons, Blake 6 and Tyson 3 moved from Bayswater North in Melbourne’s outer suburbs to Yarrawonga in September 2017.

The main reason for their move? They were after the ‘country lifestyle’, away from the rush of the city life.

“We just wanted to get away from the hustle and bustle and come up here to the country life before our kids started school,” Stacey said.

“We wanted to make the change before our eldest started school so he could start fresh here and my husband had a friend here that helped him secure a job too, so we wanted to come up and give it a go.”

Although missing some aspects of the city life, the Davis family love it here.

“As soon as we moved here, I had a break because we had two young children and I was working full time in Melbourne so it was also nice to come here for a bit of downtime and be able to be home with the kids,” Stacey said.

“We also now have friends that have moved to the area because of how positively we’ve spoken about it, we would definitely recommend it.”

“I didn’t start looking for work until January 2018 but it didn’t take too long, there were plenty of jobs in the area that I could apply for, but I probably got in with Moira Shire Council at the right time.

“I came in at a time they were looking for casuals and a lot of staff were going on leave so I was able to fill those roles and I now work four days permanent.”

As well as having luck in terms of the time frame it took to find a job for both Stacey and Andrew, the whole family found it quite easy to fit into the area.

“We have found fitting in good, people say it is always easier with children because you make friends through the kids, I joined the

The Davis family - Blake, Stacey, Tyson and Andrew decided a tree change to Yarrawonga was their next step as a family, and they have not looked back

playgroup when we got here and met other women and I got into the basketball and met and became friends with Amanda Wheaton as well,” Stacey said.

“My husband joined the darts because his friend was part of the club and he will join the cricket next season, I have also now joined Rennie Netball Club, mainly to put myself out there and make more friends.

“It’s definitely a sporty area, if you want to play sport, there is plenty of options.

“With our kids, even though I was staying at home, I enrolled Blake into Country Buddies so he could make some friends before he started prep and be around local children his own age.

“It worked out well too because he is now at Yarrawonga College P-12 and that is where a majority of the Country Buddies’ kids went so he had his friends around him, we have

enjoyed becoming more involved in the community.”

So was a tree change well worth it and would the Davis family recommend it to others looking to get out of the hustle and bustle of the big cities?

“I would absolutely recommend a tree change, it is so much cheaper to own a house here than in Melbourne and the quieter lifestyle is fantastic,” Stacey said.

“We’ve had a few rentals but we just bought a house here because it is more affordable here in the country areas, now we’re settled and content.

“We also now have friends that have moved to the area because of how positively we’ve spoken about it, we would definitely recommend it.”

MEDIUM HOUSE PRICES $383,000 Yarrawonga’s medium house price $834,000 Melbourne’s medium house price Dec 2018 – Source REIV. 42

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OUR TOP EVENTS NOT TO BE MISSED IN 2019-2020

OCTOBER Yarrawonga Mulwala Multisport Festival October 19-20 | The Yarrawonga Mulwala Multisport Festival is a two day event featuring triathlons and fun runs. The Saturday part of the event is held from the Mulwala Water Ski Club and features world qualifying triathlons held over two states boasting an iconic bridge run and a Lake Mulwala hugging course that attracts competitors from all over Australia and the world. The Sunday part of the event features 5km and 10km Fun Runs, Kids 1km and 3km Fun Runs along the beautiful Lake Mulwala foreshore in Yarrawonga. There’s something for everyone during this fantastic two day festival. www.ymmf.com.au

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JULY

NOVEMBER

Yarrawonga Mulwala Kid’s Festival

Family Food Fair Good Friday, Easter Saturday and Sunday, April 19-21 | Food, fun, entertainment and more food.

It’s as easy as, bring your chair or picnic rug, family and friends and set up on the luscious green lawns adjacent the 18th fairway. Let the kids run free while you decide what it is you’re tempted to eat. www.yarragolf.com.au

July 6-13 | The Yarrawonga Mulwala Kids Festival is the perfect event for families to enjoy the winter school holidays. The unique program includes a variety of sporting clinics including basketball, AFL, netball and soccer. Blue Earth skill activities are also included. There are various indoor events including a themed movie marathon, performing artists and entertainment shows for the enjoyment of all ages The Street Festival Day includes roving acts with performers that will entertain and amuse both young and old. www.lakemulwalakids.com.au

Lake Mulwala Rod Run November 7-10 | This year organisers will be celebrating the sixth anniversary of the Lake Mulwala Rod Run held over three days. The rod run is a great spectacle of hot rods around Yarrawonga and Mulwala. The event includes a street parade down Yarrawonga’s main shopping street, a drag racing event at the Wilby Speedway finishing with a show and shine festival at the JC Lowe Oval. www.northernsuburbsstreetrods.com. au/LakeMulwalaRodRun.html

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NOVEMBER

DECEMBER

JANUARY

Massive Murray Paddle

Yamaha Cod Classic

November 18-22 | The Massive Murray Paddle is an amazing five-day paddling adventure that raises funds to assist local community driven programs.

This paddle is 404 kilometres over five days down the Mighty Murray River.

It starts at Yarrawonga and finishes at Swan Hill, passing through beautiful towns like Tocumwal and Echuca. The event celebrated 50 years in 2018 and is still going strong. www.massivemurraypaddle.org.au

December 7-8 | The Yamaha Cod Classic in Yarrawonga Mulwala is without doubt the premier recreational fishing competition in the region and most likely the largest of its kind in regional inland Australia. Attracting more than 2,000 anglers each year the event has a staggering prize pool of around $150,000. The Cod Classic celebrates the opening to Cod season and is now an iconic event on the Australian fishing calendar not to be missed. www.codclassic.com.au

Corowa Federation Festival January 24-26, 2020 | Enjoy the colour and musical extravaganza of Corowa’s National Federation Festival, scheduled over the Australia Day long weekend.

Corowa is the ‘Birthplace of Federation’ and visitors are treated to an array of fabulous bands, music and festival activities with markets, buskers, food and wine experiences, a B&S Ball and the old fashioned grand parade along Sanger Street. www.federationfestival.com.au

SALES, SERVICE Bundalong paradise & REPAIR It’s all here !

• We stock all the top brands • Large range to suit all needs • Spare parts and repairs to all makes and models

The Bundalong Holiday Resort is now in its 10th year. It is situated on the Murray Valley Highway in the tranquil village of Bundalong, just 10 minutes from the tourist centre of Yarrawonga and beautiful Lake Mulwala.

The towns of Rutherglen, Corowa and Wangaratta are all within 35 KMs. Our facilities consist of:

Stihl, Honda PE, Yamaha Motorcycles, Mercury Marine, Cub Cadet, Rover, Greenfield, Atom

105 Benalla-Yarrawonga Road

• Fully self contained 2 bedroom cabins some sleep up to 6.

• Large under cover entertaining area situated near the pool.

• Powered Caravan Sites and Camping sites available.

• Licensed Kiosk, large array of grocery lines available.

• Large private amenities and commercial laundry.

• Just over 1 KM to the 2 boat ramps Bundalong.

• Landscaped swimming pool, BBQ areas and games room.

• Pets require management approval at all times.

No pets during peak times.

7419A Murray Valley Highway, Bundalong

5744 3130

Ph: 03 5726 8600 Email: Fax: 03 5726 8699 info.bhr@bigpond.com

E - info@ssmcycles.com.au W - www.stuartsimmons.com.au

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MRL A DREAM COME TRUE MURRAY RIVER LIVING

Edition 3 - 2019 • FREE

For Kaitlyn and Marcus Cummins building their new five bedroom home was a fresh start and a new lifestyle they had dreamt of for some time.

“Building our new home was a dream come true,” Kaitlyn said.

“Marcus and I used to walk and ride our bikes past this part of town (The Water Edge Estate in east Yarrawonga) almost every day, so when we saw the sign go up about a new subdivision we were quick to jump in and secure our block off the plan.

“I started planning the home straight away, every night I would go to sleep picturing different aspects of the home and drawing countless floorplans until we had every detail just as we wanted it. I kept a scrapbook full of colour ideas, tapware, bathroom layouts and kitchen designs.

“It was about three and half years before we started building and it was an exciting time.

“Marcus and I really wanted to create a beautiful space for us to raise our family and to suit our busy lifestyle.”

The Cummins’ home features a natural look with a combination of stone and timber on a clean white backdrop. Engineered oak floorboards provide durability but sustain the natural look throughout the home. Colour tones are really neutral all the way through the home with features in the kitchen and living areas providing open space and an abundance of natural

Kennedy Builders were fantastic as they involved me in every detail of the build to ensure that the end product was just as I had imagined it.

47

light through well placed windows and stacker doors. The stonework fireplace is a standout feature.

Outside the swimming pool features a splash pad at one end of the pool perfect for the kids to play on. The pool has a self-cleaning system and the landscaping and lawns have a fully automated sprinkler system.

“One of the must have features of the home was that I could walk straight in from the car to the laundry and pantry.

“We just love living so close to the water, it’s such a quiet and beautiful part of town walking around Chinaman’s Island and through Silverwoods is so relaxing and we just love waking up with the amazing colours of the sunrise over the lake. We were so excited to get to live in such a wonderful part of the world,” Kaitlyn said.

Building a home to match your lifestyle Kennedy Builders inside story...

“

Kennedy Builders came highly recommended to us as a local family owned building company, who build custom made homes to suit your needs.

They were happy to build the house to our design, as well as assist us in customising our house from start to finish. What’s more, Kennedy Builders show great support in the local area by sponsoring many sporting clubs, which was a big positive for us.

”

Image by Andrea Sissons Photography

My top tips for someone building for the first time...

• Make sure you have a clear plan of what you want. Do your research and have a clear vision of what you want your house to look like. Work out as many details beforehand as possible, as this will save time in decision making.

• When quoting on a house make sure you compare apples for apples.

• Planning and sticking to a budget is key.

But I would advise to budget more than you expect.

• Ensure you are confident and comfortable enough to communicate with your builder... remember they aren’t mind readers!

Shop 6, 95-103 Melbourne Street Mulwala NSW 2647 Damien 0408 549 685 info@kennedybuilders.com.au kennedybuilders.com.au

• Listen to professionals but know when to trust your gut. Don’t obsess you will make mistakes, learn to love to love them.

– Kaitlyn 48

My top tips for someone building for the first time...

• Have a good idea of what you want from the start. I had a scrap book to collect pictures and ideas that I wanted. We also visited display homes in Melbourne to get an idea of the sizes of different homes, so that when we looked at the plans we were aware of what that would feel like in real life.

• When building a long-term home I think it’s really important to get the bones right.

Work out your budget and your ‘must have’ features, so that you know where you want to focus your attention and money, and what areas you can compromise on.

• When you make your first appointment with the builder make sure you have some basic information with you; block size and dimensions, easements, the number of bedrooms and bathrooms you want and a budget that you feel comfortable with.

Image by Andrea Sissons Photography

“

We were looking for a builder that could be flexible, that would customise the design to meet our family’s need and work with us to create an amazing home within our budget.

It was important to us that we could select our tradies, and have lots of input into the materials used during the build.

– Margaret

Kennedy’s allowed us the freedom to work directly with each subcontractor to plan a home that was functional, beautiful and on budget.

”

49

MRL MURRAY RIVER LIVING

Edition 3 - 2019 • FREE

Your taste of Murray River Living The perfect place to relax with friends and take in the superb views of Lake Mulwala.

The new-and-improved Malibu Deck has got the lot. A retractable roof, misting fans, TVs, bar, coffee shop, a playground for the kids and by far the best view in town.

The perfect destination for a day trip or short break away, come and stay on the water’s edge at the Ski Club Holiday Park.

With its wide range of great value accommodation and powered sites right next door to the Mulwala Water Ski Club.

If it’s sport, dining or just plain relaxing, it’s all here!

And don’t forget our fantastic live entertainment every week with some of Australia’s hottest acts performing — all live & free!

C

M

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CM

MY

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CMY

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Grinders Coffee Shop

Golden Inn Restaurant

Papalia’s Lakeside YMGCR Restaurant

The Mulwala Water Ski Club Grinders Coffee Shop boasts absolute water frontage and offers fantastic coffee, tea, soft drinks and a variety of tasty food for morning tea, lunch or just a snack. Sit inside or outside, and enjoy the panoramic views across Lake Mulwala or simply relax with friends. Grinders Coffee Shop also boasts a licensed bar and children’s playground.

Golden Inn Restaurant is located in the Mulwala Water Ski Club complex and provides the finest Chinese Cuisine in light and spacious surroundings, with floor to ceiling views of Lake Mulwala.

It is the stylish place to entertain friends and business associates. Featuring a la Carte chefs from China, Malaysia, Hong Kong they offer a superb selection of gourmet dishes, specials and banquets for lunch and dinner.

Papalia’s Lakeside Restaurant is an authentic Italian Restaurant located in the Mulwala Water Ski Club complex and overlooks beautiful Lake Mulwala. Featuring in-room and alfresco dining, Papalia’s offers delicious pastas, scrumptious risottos along with traditional and gourmet pizzas. Their only additives are fresh ingredients, and that is why their pizza, pastas, steaks and parmigianas taste so much better! Dine in or take away your favorite Italian dish today!

The team of chefs at Yarrawonga Mulwala Golf Club Resort bring a wealth of knowledge and passion to the kitchen, striving to produce quality food with an emphasis on seasonal and local produce. The newly refurbished Border Bistro and Sand Wedge Bar offers members and guests a range of fresh options daily from freshly prepared salads and burgers to delectable grazing stations for special events.

Whatever your tastes, for a quick bite to eat or special occasion Yarragolf has you covered.

Melbourne St, Mulwala Phone 03 5744 1888 www.mulwalawaterski.com.au

156 Melbourne St, Mulwala Phone: 5744 1515 www.mulwalawaterski.com.au

156 Melbourne St, Mulwala Phone: 5744 1888 www.mulwalawaterski.com.au

Golf Club Road, Mulwala Phone 03 5744 1911 www.yarragolf.com.au

Barooga Hotel

Ripe Restaurant Buller Wines

Criterion Hotel

Watt’s in Bundalong Café

The Barooga Hotel is perfect for catching up with family and friends. You can grab a delicious meal in the Bistro, meet for drinks in the front bar or relax out on the Deck Bar. Whatever your preference, we’ve got you covered.

Let Glenn, Kath and the staff look after you with some great country hospitality on your next visit to Barooga.

2-6 Vermont Rd, Barooga Phone 03 5873 4340 www.baroogahotel.com.au

Phone: (03) 5744 1888 mulwalawaterski.com.au

Experience exceptional lunchtime dining in the Ripe at Buller Wines Restaurant, overlooking the iconic 100 year old Calliope Vineyard adjacent to the fabulously fresh market garden from where they harvest their vegetables on a daily basis. Ripe at Buller Wines are available for private functions, weddings, parties and conferences. They can seat approximately 300 people but happily will cater for the more intimate styled event.

2804 Federation Way, Rutherglen Phone (02) 6032 8820. www.bullerwines.com.au

50

Whether you are passing through for drink or a bite to eat you’ll find something to hit the spot. Open 7 days for lunch and dinner. Choose to dine in the bistro or enjoy the amazing views of Lake Mulwala while relaxing on hotel’s expansive deck. Great for the whole family with kids playground and live music every Saturday ensuring a great night out.

Watt’s in Bundalong Café provides a pleasant environment for a relaxing beverage and snack. The facility includes an air conditioned indoor dining and several pleasant alfresco areas. Off-street parking caters for drive through trailer/boat parking. The cafe is owned and operated by locals and provides delicious meals and snacks made with an emphasis on house made cakes and slices.

Their shelves are filled with mouth-watering house made relishes, jams and pickles.

1 Belmore St, Yarrawonga Phone 03 5744 3839

Murray Valley Hwy, Bundalong Phone: 5726 8741 www.bundalongcafe.business. site

MRL THE LAST SULKY RESTORATION MURRAY RIVER LIVING

Edition 3 - 2019 • FREE

By Emma Prior

With a building background and a love for bringing objects back to their former glory, retired builder and boat racer George Robins struck restoration gold.

I

n the past 18 months George, a Mulwala resident finished restoring a sulky buggy from scratch, buying the completely dismantled item and putting it back together from memory.

Sadly however, during the restoration George was diagnosed with Macular Degeneration, a disease that he is unable to have treated and one that will cause him to lose most of his sight in the years to come.

Due to his diagnosis, the sulky buggy that now takes pride of place in the Pioneer Museum in Mulwala, is most likely the last thing George will be able to restore.

“I can’t see all that well now, so I probably couldn’t do this sort of project again because when I need to measure things and use a ruler I can’t see it properly,” George told the MRL last year.

“If I could guess it I would be alright!”

Over the past 30 odd years George has restored many old cars, a few that he has kept in his sheds and taken to car shows and others he has donated to various organisations.

George with the restored sulky. This is the last car he will be able to restore as his condition of Macular Degeneration is worsening.

The ruins of an old Sulky from Broken Hill that George Robins bought and repaired.

“He started restoring cars after he finished racing boats, around 1980,” George’s wife Dallice said.

“He restores cars and boats primarily, he comes from a building background so it was in his blood really.”

In terms of this most recent sulky, it was just by chance that George purchased it in the first place.

“I bought this one on a weak moment at a clearing sale, well what was left of it,” George said.

“I kept it for 30-40 years and when I left Broken Hill to move to Mulwala around 13 years ago I thought I would bring it here with me and I might as well fix it.

“I didn’t want it but if I didn’t restore it everything would be lost.

“The only thing that was left really was the iron work.”

The sulky was originally built by J H Jones and Sons in Adelaide.

Later it was purchased in Berri, South Australia by Cyril Heuzenroder for his granddaughter in the mid-1950s and remained in the Heuzenroder family until 1988 when the remains were purchased by George.

When he first bought the ruins, there were just enough left to gain all measurements necessary to complete the sulky.

In 2015 George began the restoration where he used laminated pine ply to rebuild the front section and mid guards, with all the iron work left being that of the original sulky and all pieces only having a bit of surface rust.

“Everything had fallen off it and it was just rubbish,” George said.

“You wouldn’t believe, there’s so much iron in it and no steel so it won’t properly rust but I took off the surface rust and painted it and now it’s right.”

The shafts, sides and the likes were all cut from mountain ash sourced from the Benalla saw mill and 139 new bolts were put in.

The seat and boot coverings were originally tan leather but there was nothing left of the seat so George had to do what he thought would work.

“There was nothing of the seat, I had to visualize it and create it myself,” he said.

“Hence the colour used in new vinyl.”

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MRL MURRAY RIVER LIVING

Edition 3 - 2019 • FREE

George working on the buggy that took almost two years to restore.

After restoring the whole sulky back to its former glory George then had to take it apart to coat it with acrylic primer surfacer and paint in acrylic lacquer before putting it all back together again.

“I wasn’t working on it all the time but it probably took two years as I had restored it all ready to paint but the weather was no good and I couldn’t do it in my shed because I had too many cars in there, so I had to take it outside but weather has to be perfect for spray-paint and it was winter so painting took me six months,” he said.

“The colour for the whole thing is from the Australian colour range, probably the only range available in the 1920’s era – B24 – Harbour Blue which is a perfect match to the colour found on the heads of the original bolts.”

To complete the final look a local fellow did the upholstery while a company in Wodonga did the cursive writing on the back.

Once fully completed George decided to donate the sulky to the Mulwala Pioneer Museum on December 9, 2017.

“I thought ‘what am I going to do with it now it’s done’ so donating it to a place that has similar objects and where it can be kept safe worked out well,” he said.

“I’m glad it is in a place like this and I was lucky the museum was just here and they were able to take it.”

Although donating this piece to the museum, George still owns two old Buicks, a ‘51 and ‘52 convertible and Riviera, restored and looking like brand new.

“I take them to car shows and rallies all the time,” George said.

“The convertible is pretty good, I don’t think I’ve been anywhere where it hasn’t won.”

After restoring so many vehicles and building his own racing boats, it is a shame that George now suffers from Macular Degeneration where he will no longer be able to do what he has loved for more than 50 years and has a clear talent for.

In talking about restoring this sulky and previous cars, George is incredibly modest in what he has achieved and the amount of work he has done to repair these vehicles but his wife Dallice said she and their entire family are very proud of what he has done.

“It has always been in his blood to create and build things and he has spent so much time and effort on them over the years,” Dallice said.

“It is a shame that he is losing his eyesight so he will be unable to create these things anymore but it is also sad that it is deteriorating for all aspects of our lives now.

“I would go out and have a ‘drinking and thinking’ time with him while he was restoring this one in particular but watching the whole process and seeing the final creation of this and many other cars and boats especially, I am so proud of him and what he has done.

“He should also be proud of himself, the vehicles have turned out fantastic and he has done a magnificent job.”

Watt’s in Bundalong

Café

Great Coffee..

Great Service

• Delicious food • Licensed and free Wifi • Off street parking for boats/trailers • Housemade cakes and slices • Open for breakfast & lunch 7 days 03 5726 8741 Murray Valley Hwy, Bundalong

The sulky in the repairing stages before being painted and upholstered.

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Silverwoods Sales Office 1-7 Silverwoods Boulevard, Yarrawonga, 3730

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