Our Home Autumn 2021 — Echuca-Moama and district

AUTUMN 2021

STYLE & DESIGN // HOME // LIFESTYLE // BACKYARD COVER: I WANT I NEED

STORY: PAGE 19

PAGE 2—Riverine Herald, Friday, March 26, 2021

Where the grass

is greener I

t’s no secret the team at Coolabah Turf love lawn.

But Stuart Milgate might almost beat them at their our own game.

His meticulously manicured property in Moama, where he lives with his wife Janine and their two dogs, Charlie and Roly, is the envy of his neighbours and attracts admiration from anyone who walks past.

However, it’s not for praise or glory that Stuart keeps his turf so well maintained — he just loves his lawn.

“You could say it stemmed from my mother’s father; he was very fussy with his lawn. I remember watching him keep it immaculate with an old push mower and now I am just as fussy,” Stuart said.

“Except I have three mowers. Janine usually helps with the edging and I have a special way of mowing the rest so that it !ows perfectly with the garden.”

After installing a winter grass at a previous house that didn’t stand up to our climatic conditions, Stuart said it was a no-brainer to install over 1000 sq m of Sir Walter DNA Certi"ed Bu alo in their new house. And they’ve never looked back.

“It’s just such a beautiful, hardy and drought-tolerant grass. We have two monstrous Labradors who are very hard on the lawn, but it holds up so well, you wouldn’t even know they were there.

“People joke that I must cut the grass with scissors and comb it to keep it so well maintained and while I am fastidious with mowing, removing leaves and even tucking in any runners the dogs scratch up, I "nd it really easy to take care of.

“It requires very little water.

I simply follow Coolabah’s seasonal maintenance guide to a tee, ensuring I apply fertiliser, Oxafert and Seasol as prescribed at the right time of year to keep it strong and healthy. It stays beautiful and green and I’ve hardly ever had a weed.

“It just makes me so proud to sit back on a Sunday after I’ve mowed to see it looking so spectacular and appreciate what we’ve achieved.

“But I can’t take all the credit. It’s such a great product and the team at Coolabah Turf are so helpful. Every time I visit, I’m always greeted with a big smile and there is never a problem they can’t solve.”

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Riverine Herald, Friday, March 26, 2021—PAGE 3

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A

S THE TEMPERATURE begins to cool and the seasons shift, autumn brings a whole new world of possibilities in and outside your home.

Although the colours are morphing in your gardens and some plants go into hibernation for the winter, that doesn’t mean there’s no chance for you to make some changes.

Whether it be sprucing up your home after months of looking at the same old rooms during COVID–19 lockdown or cleaning out that garden shed you’ve said you would do for the past six months, Our Home magazine has you covered.

We’ve teamed up with a range of local businesses who can help give you all the advice you need to get your home and garden looking their very best.

If you’re looking to change up your lounge suite or dining table, S & J Furniture has a wide range of brands and styles to suit your space.

Or if you want to deck out your bedroom with Australian-made products, Forty Winks Echuca will have you catching some shut-eye in comfort this autumn.

Rich River Flooring Xtra has a selection of pet-friendly carpet and !ooring options to make sure your furry friend doesn’t ruin your grand renovation plans.

Maybe you’re looking at starting from scratch with a brand new home? There is a top-notch team at NBD Building Group that can help make your dream home become a reality.

If you’ve made the move and downsized your home, but you’re not sure how to style the small space, we can give you a few handy tips and tricks to get your home looking a million bucks (without breaking the bank, of course).

So sit back, enjoy the Our Home feature, and maybe make some plans for your home and garden.

PAGE 4—Riverine Herald, Friday, March 26, 2021

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Offering high quality and professional building solutions, along with well qualified and respectable staff to offer guidance and expert advice during your building or renovating journey.

Whether it is a new home, extension, renovation, pergola or outdoor alfresco area that you are after, we can help you.

We can help you extend your existing home, build your new dream home or even just help you with some property maintenance.

New Garages, Fences, or even just an extra room, are just a few of the services we offer. No job is too big or too small.

NDB Building Group 77 Wharparilla Dve Echuca | 0447317242 | www.ndbbuilding.com.au

Riverine Herald, Friday, March 26, 2021—PAGE 5

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Find your perfect fit with

NDB Building Group A

RE you stuck looking for the right builder to help with your new dream home or renovation?

If you are, then look no further than NDB Building Group.

Led by director Nicholas Burls, who has more than 25 years’ experience in the industry, the NDB team strives to make your dream home a reality.

NDB’s services include new projects and stunning renovations which have to be seen to be believed.

“What I particularly appreciated about Nick was his knowledge and experience and at no time did we think we would get anything but a perfect !ve-star !nished product,” customer Robyn Shepherd said about her experiences in dealing with the company.

“He and his employees were always most considerate of us.”

From when NDB was formed, the company, Nick Burls and his enthusiastic high quality trades team have spent time perfecting their skills and project management e ciencies to become one of the industry leaders in Victoria while also being a proud NDIS Provider.

Specialising in complete building package services, exceptional client experiences with a promise of 24hour accessibility across Melbourne and regional Victoria, along with attention to detail, reliability and a professionalism guarantee set NDB apart.

NDB prides itself on satisfying valued customers and its extensive repeat business speaks for itself.

“We o er high quality, professional building solutions,” director Nick Burls said.

“O ering clients exceptional quality, professionalism and the latest building solutions, our enthusiastic

team full of quality tradesmen with highly re!ned on-site skills are backed by project management experts.

“With well quali!ed and reliable sta we are continually o ering guidance and expert advice

during your building or renovating journey.”

You can !nd the company on Facebook at NDB Building Group or on Instagram under the handle ndb_buildinggroup.

The company’s website is www.ndbbuildinggroup.com.au The Echuca o ce is located at 77 Wharparilla Dve and they can be contacted on 0447 317 242.

PAGE 6—Riverine Herald, Friday, March 26, 2021

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SO MUCH CHOICE AT CHOICES FLOORING C

HOOSING the right !ooring for your home is one of the biggest decisions.

When it comes to making the right choice, there are countless options in front of you.

That’s where the team at Choices Flooring Echuca is here to help.

Their professional team has all the knowledge and know-how to make your life much easier.

When you walk through the doors at 188 Annesley St, you’ll be greeted by the friendly sta .

And despite the thousands of options around you, you can put your faith in Russell and Angela Reddie and the sta to know you’ve made the right decision when you walk back out the door.

“We are a local family-owned business and want to help our customers as much as possible, we have been here in Echuca for more than 20 years,” Russell said.

“It’s very easy to get overawed and that’s where we like to keep things simple.

“At Choices Flooring Echuca we’re a one-stop-shop for all of your !ooring needs.”

Just what style of !ooring you go for is a di erent matter.

Choice Flooring has a fantastic range of carpets, with textured carpets currently one of the most popular on the market.

One of the standout products on the shop !oor is the Brease range which is an asthma and allergy-friendly carpet

which is supported by the National Asthma Council Australia.

The product uses a range of systems to prevent the growth of bacteria, mould, mildew and fungi.

“We also have a wide range of di erent colours and styles available in the Brease collection,” Russell said.

But the range of carpets is only the beginning in-store.

You’ll also "nd a large range of vinyl !ooring at Choices Flooring, with their own range, called Genero, which includes a wide range of colours and styles.

Vinyl !ooring continues to be popular among people in regional areas.

“People are attracted to the comfort and ease of replacement if there ever is any damage,” Russell said.

“You don’t have to worry about the temperature of the !oors like you would in other places.”

Choices Flooring is also home to a wide range of tiling options.

“We’ve got everything from porcelain to feature tiles,” Russell said.

“Grey and darker colours have been popular recently but some of the latest houses we’ve done have gone for more of a neutral pallet.

“In the end, it comes down to each person’s taste.”

A wide range of roller blinds, shutters, verticals, sheers, outdoor blinds and awnings are also available in-store.

Riverine Herald, Friday, March 26, 2021—PAGE 7

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Carpet

At C h o i ce s F l o o r i n g Ec h u ca , we k n ow t h a t g o o d i nte r i o r d e co ra t i n g s ta r t s f ro m t h e floor up Luxury Vinyl

Tiles

With the latest designs in carpet, timber, luxury vinyl, tiles, rugs and window furnishings, we have the perfect decorating solution for every home and budget.

So if you’re looking for the latest trends in flooring and everything that’s new underfoot, then look no further than Choices Flooring Echuca.

Visit our showroom and let us help you find the floor you’ve been searching for, or contact us to book a free measure and quote today!

Wo r k i n g M e n ’s Club

PA K E N H

AM ST

HU ME ST

ST UR T ST

ST

Echuca Moama Family Medical C e n t re

N IS H

ST HARE

Blinds

T ER S

AN NE SL EY

RUTH

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Choices Flooring Echuca 1/188 Annesley Street, Echuca 5482 3883 choicesflooring.com.au

PAGE 8—Riverine Herald, Friday, March 26, 2021

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It's a great season to be in the garden A

UTUMN is the best time of the year for planting in northern Victoria.

The ground is still warm and the weather is mild which will encourage growth in your new plants before their growth slows in winter.

The nurseries are full of new-season plants to put in your garden for a bright winter and spring showing, and all the bulbs you could wish to plant are ready for you to buy.

Remember, when you buy bulbs, don’t just look at the picture on the packet but check the bulbs are in good condition.

It is important you prepare for your bulbs before you buy as they like to be planted in a sunny place and the soil needs to be enriched with compost or aged animal manure.

Bulb !bre can be bought for planting in pots.

Interspersing bulbs with "ower seedlings means you have colourful "owers to cover the bulb foliage as it dies down.

Da odils look good with lobelia.

Tulips plant well with viola.

The autumn-winter period is also the best time for planting deciduous trees.

It is a good idea to walk the streets around your area during autumn and

see the colour in the leaves and to notice the size trees attain.

This is the best way to !nd the types of trees that will suit your garden space.

Most people will be quite happy to share with you their knowledge of the tree in which you are interested.

Deciduous trees worth thinking about include crab apple, crepe myrtle, weeping maple, silver birch (weeping and tall growing forms), smoke bush (Cotinus) and "owering pear (very good varieties available).

Similarly, it is a good idea to notice what shrubs and ground covers do well in the gardens in your area before you go to the nursery.

Local nursery sta are a great source of information on suitable plantings for each season.

There are lots of native plants that do really well in this area, many of which can be grown from seeds or cuttings which is a satisfying way to plant your garden.

There are numerous varieties of grevilleas which "ower throughout the year and attract bees and native birds.

As the weather cools, cyclamens are a popular source of indoor colour, however they do not like heat, so put the plant outside overnight and keep

ROCHESTER NURSERY HAVE YOU

VIS I

T

it well away from heaters when it is indoors.

As with all indoor plants, water only when needed and mist with a water spray occasionally.

SEEDLINGS TO PLANT NOW: Flowers: pansy, poppy, stock, primula, wall"ower, lobelia, alyssum, sweet pea.

Vegetables: parsley, silverbeet, peas, onion, cabbage, cauli"ower, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, spring onions, rhubarb, garlic, seeds of carrots, parsnips, swedes, white globe turnip and coriander.

• Submitted by Echuca Horticultural Society.

Hyacinths.

New members welcome. Inquiries to Cecilia Merrigum on 0400 863 190.

Grevillea.

Smoke bush (Cotinus).

ED

MOVING IN? MOVING OUT? MOVING UP?

US

ELY? LAT

HEDGES TUBESTOCK LANDSCAPE VARIETIES

ADVANCED TREES NATIVES & EXOTICS ORNAMENTAL TREES

200,000 PLUS PLANTS IN STOCK BUY DIRECT FROM THE GROWER • ALL LOCALLY GROWN PLANTS STOCKLIST ON OUR WEBSITE OPEN MONDAY – FRIDAY: 8 am – 4.30 pm • SATURDAY: 9 am – 2 pm www.rochesternursery.com.au • ! @rochesternursery 03 5484 3777 • 6708 NORTHERN HWY ROCHESTER VIC 3561

150 ALLAN ST, KYABRAM 5852 2377 24 BLAKE ST, NATHALIA 5866 2121 www.hinchliffe.com.au

Riverine Herald, Friday, March 26, 2021—PAGE 9

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Find the bed of your dreams T

HERE is nothing better than supporting Australian made.

After a chaos-!lled year, when you buy something locally made you are doing everything you can to support those in the local industry.

And that’s why Forty Winks Echuca wants you to buy from its Australian Made collection.

Forty Winks’ Jack Keogh said there was so much to o er by buying Australian Made.

“You really are looking after a lot of people when you buy Australian Made,” he said.

“All our Australian Made stock is made in Melbourne, so you are looking

after people just a few hours away, people who have an impact on our community — and that’s a great thing to know.

“But what really stands out about our Australian Made stock is the quality. It’s the best on the market in every way.

“On top of that, you have an opportunity to make changes and customise your product so that it suits you and delivers exactly what you want in your house.”Whether that’s the stain of the timber, the con!guration of the bedding suite, the fabric, gas lifts or anything along those lines, you get to make those kind of choices and tailor things to suit you.

Alexa

FI4068

Echuca

Forty Winks Australian made beds.

Echuca Homemaker Centre, 161-189 Ogilvie Avenue Ph: 03 5482 4522

“When you buy imported, you get what has been designed already, it’s exactly what you see. But when you go local you can have what you want and what suits you, all while knowing you are looking after the Australian industry and the people who work in it.”

Mr Keogh said there would always be something new on the "oor to look for.

Cobar

“We are always stocking the latest in terms of on-trend products for our customers,” he said.

“That’s one of the big advantages to the store out here, we can stock a lot more of a range for our customers, and we are always introducing new options.

“It’s always a great time to come down and see what we have to o er.”

PAGE 10—Riverine Herald, Friday, March 26, 2021

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Make it about your home, not your loan Apply online at gmcu.com.au

gmcu.com.au

Goulburn Murray Credit Union Co-operative Limited ABN 87 087 651 509 AFSL/Australian Credit Licence No. 241364.

Terms & conditions, fees & charges and eligibility criteria may apply.

Riverine Herald, Friday, March 26, 2021—PAGE 11

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WHEN COMFORT IS KEY,

OPT FOR QUALITY T

HERE’S never a bad time to give your home an upgrade — especially your furniture.

While everyone spent a lot of time indoors during COVID–19 lockdowns, people realised what Echuca’s S & J Furniture has known all along — comfort in your home is key.

And they can help with that.

“Globally, people’s priorities are shifting. They want good quality products in every room of their homes,” S & J Furniture owner Karl Bauer said.

“We pride ourselves on making sure we listen to the customer and

do our best to !nd the perfect product that suits their needs.”

If your couch just doesn’t have the comfort it used to, or you need a new dining table to !t in with your new-look room, S & J will sort it out for you.

The store houses Australian-made and quality imported products — and plenty of them.

“We don’t want people to think that because of the pandemic, we’ve struggled to get stock,” Mr Bauer said.

“We still have a large range for people to choose from.”

From dining settings to lounge suites, bedroom to outdoor furniture, S & J

will help you !nd the right product for your space.

And of that range, the La-Z-Boy is still a customer favourite.

“We have all the models people have come to know and love, but we will hopefully have a few more coming through our doors soon,” Mr Bauer said.

And if you’re worried about getting it through the door and into your house, have no fear.

“We make sure we unpack and check all products before being sent out,” Mr Bauer said.

“We pride ourselves on providing the service of always delivering and assembling all furniture so it is ready to use.”

S & J Furniture o ers free delivery to the local area.

If you would like any information on what’s on o er, you can !nd the team at 79 Ogilvie Ave or you can call them on 5480 7912.

79 – 85 Ogilvie Ave, Echuca (03) 5480 7912

PAGE 12—Riverine Herald, Friday, March 26, 2021

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Autumn is here and we’ve got everything that will have your yard coming up roses

Large range of Stones and Ro

hes Mullch

cks

Sand and Soil

d Garden products, Metal Art an Homewares

Need help with your garden?

Now offering FREE onsite services, measure and quote and product advice

ROCK SOLID GARDENING SUPPLIES

FREE Delivery* *Local area only.

47 Sturt St, Echuca 5480 7299 info@rocksolidechuca.com rocksolidechuca.com.au

riverineherald.com.au

BRING OUT THE BEST OF YOUR BACKYARD THIS W

hether your backyard is big or small, perfectly manicured or needing some help, autumn is a great time to make it the best it can be.

With winter just around the corner the lush gardens of spring are long gone but there’s plenty you can add to brighten any space.

“Coming into autumn, a must-have in your backyard is a !repit,” Rock Solid Garden Supplies co-owner Bec Woods said.

With cooler nights on the radar it’s the perfect addition to outdoor entertaining or just for the family to wind down, while also adding to the always-popular rustic look.

Rock Solid has a wide range of !repits, including steel cut and cast iron, or even locally made custom laser-cut !repits.

A !repit can make a great focal point in a backyard, with the custom option to add a personal touch such as a logo, name or even an anniversary date cut into the pit — all locally made by Rohan Garth from Kyabram.

The design space around a !repit can also lift a drab yard to the next level, with a bit of landscaping going a long way.

In fact, apart from plants, Rock Solid has everything to do up the whole backyard — from rocks, stones and soil to mulch and fertiliser, plus a wide range of garden accessories.

For those without a green thumb, metal sculptures are a low maintenance way to immediately bring your outdoor spaces to the next level.

Best of they all, they don’t require any water and are reliable against all the elements.

“We’ve got a huge range, all locally produced here in Echuca,” Ms Woods said.

“You can put them in and they look great straightaway.

They’re a long-lasting, architectural feature for the garden and a great way to !ll that dead corner where nothing will grow.”

Water features are also making a comeback with people turning to more natural designs using rocks and large stones.

During COVID–19 indoor plants took o as a huge trend — bringing nature to the home when people couldn’t leave theirs.

Indoor "owerpots have many great uses and Rock Solid has a vast range in a variety of sizes, colours and designs to suit any home.

As winter approaches, it’s important to do tick o your jobs list now so they don’t come back to bite you when the weather turns.

Now is your last chance to get grass seeds down, with mild weather and the chance of rain creating excellent growing conditions before the winter chill stagnates growth.

Reap the bene!ts of slow-release fertiliser for plants and lawns, and save yourself a mudslide in a gravel driveway by checking they’re up to scratch now.

“They may be okay to drive across now but when it starts raining they create a mess,” Ms Woods said.

“A dip turns into a huge pothole when you add water.”

When it comes to people achieving the yard of their dreams, one thing that can hold them back is con!dence.

The last thing you want is to see your hard-earned coin go to waste — but with Rock Solid’s new advisory service you can breathe easy knowing every cent will be worth it.

The friendly team will come to you and provide a free measure and quote, as well as expert product recommendations to bring your ideas to life.

Riverine Herald, Friday, March 26, 2021—PAGE 13

PAGE 14—Riverine Herald, Friday, March 26, 2021

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THEY GO THE XTRA DISTANCE WHEN IT COMES TO FLOORS W

HEN you’re looking to renovate or build a new home, the last thing you want is for your pets to make a mess of it all.

From muddy paws and spills to fur on every inch of the carpet, there’s a lot to think about when choosing your !ooring.

But Rich River Flooring Xtra has all the knowledge and advice to give you the helping hand you need to make the right decision.

Owner Jacqui McMurdo said their range of pet-friendly carpet and vinyl !ooring would give you a whole world of choice.

“We have a list of high quality options to suit your pet,” she said.

“With our Australian-made brands such as Soul Elements and Eco+ for your carpet areas and Karndean and Armstrong for hard !ooring, you’ll be spoilt for choice.”

And you won’t have to worry about any of your !ooring getting damaged by pets.

“You can choose from hybrid waterproof !ooring, water-resistant and scratch-resistant laminate and vinyl or maybe one our extensive range of petfriendly carpets,” Jacqui said.

“Our carpets are stain-resistant and

easy to care for and maintain.

“If there’s an accident on your Eco carpet, all you have to do is clean it with cold water.”

But if you’re just looking for a small change in your home, the team at Flooring Xtra can help with that too.

“We have a range of blinds that will perfectly complement your new or existing !ooring, plus !oor rugs too,” she said.

Each !ooring type has a range of colours and textures to suit your needs.

“Whether it’s pet-friendly you’re looking for or something from our range of woollen carpets, you’ll fall in love with the muted colours and soft touch,” Jacqui said.

And you won’t have to worry about making sure you have the right amount of carpet or !ooring for your space, because Flooring Xtra o ers a free measure and quote before you buy.

“We also have a skilled team of quali"ed layers who will complete the job for you,” she said.

If you’d like to see what Rich River Flooring Xtra has to o er, you can contact them on 5480 6130 or "nd them at Shop 4, 53–55 McMillan Rd, Echuca.

Shop 4, 53-55 McMillan Road, Echuca (03) 5480-6130 .com.au

Rich River Flooring Xtra has pet-friendly !ooring..

Riverine Herald, Friday, March 26, 2021—PAGE 15

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Lighting design and style can make a vast difference to the overall look and feel of your home. Bring your plans into

our showroom where one of our experienced staff will guide you through your lighting and ceiling fan selection.

Call Today for an instore or onsite FREE Lighting consultation today!

VIEW RANGE & SHOP NOW: www.roundaboutlighting.com.au

Building or Renovating?

Style your home with practical and fashionable lighting and ceiling fans for that finishing touch!

169 Pakenham Street, Echuca Phone: 5480 2238 VIEW RANGE & SHOP NOW: www.roundaboutlighting.com.au

PAGE 16—Riverine Herald, Friday, March 26, 2021

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HONEST

and

RELIABLE

H

ave you found you need or want more electrical done at your home or business?

You should look no further than the team at Rose Electrical.

While it might just be a two-man combination led by Daniel Rose, Rose Electrical believes no job is too big or small for them.

That’s why Daniel and Jonathan Nunn are willing to help you get the best.

“We’re very honest about the work we do,” Daniel said.

“We do the things that the customers want because there is nothing worse than not getting what you asked for.

“Our process is to keep the customer informed about what is happening with their project.

“And you can be assured we are always going to follow the correct rules and regulations while at your property.”

During its six years based in Kyabram, Rose Electrical has completed various di erent types of rules.

Those include homes, domestic, commercial and even dairies.

“We like to branch out our options where possible because it is only going to make us a better business,” he said.

“The COVID–19 pandemic has changed everything in the last 12 months because we’ve been doing a lot of home renovations.

“We do a range of work across the Goulburn Valley including Echuca, Kyabram and Shepparton.”

Rose Electrical’s Daniel Rose and Johnno Nunn.

ROSE ELECTRICAL Rose Electrical is a Kyabram based business servicing in all electrical areas throughout Kyabram and surrounding areas. !•!Specialising in Home renovations & New homes, Split Systems, Industrial Sites !•!Air Conditioning and Heating !•!Kitchen and home Renovations !•!Home Theatre and AV systems !•!Security Systems !•!Servicing and emergency work no job too small

Call Daniel Rose on 0407 655 308

Riverine Herald, Friday, March 26, 2021—PAGE 17

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STYLING A SMALL SPACE ON A BUDGET M

OVING can be stressful at the best of times.

But what if you’re downsizing?

You’ve been living in a nice, big, spacious house and you’ve decorated your spaces accordingly.

But now, for whatever reason, you have to move to a smaller space.

And of course there are a million questions going through your head, the main one being “Where is everything going to !t?”

I know, because I had exactly the same happen to me this year.

I lived in a nice three-bedroom house with a couple of housemates in Echuca for 12 months.

In that time, I purchased a new fridge, new washing machine and best of all, the couch and ottoman set of my dreams.

It was perfect — I’d saved up and researched and found the charcoal grey set at Harvey Norman and luckily it all

!t in the loungeroom space.

But once the 12 months was up, I had to make a decision and decided to move into a smaller two-bedroom place on my own in Moama.

I had to move a lot of belongings — it wasn’t just the couches !tting in the small loungeroom space I had to worry about.

I will admit right now that I am in fact a K mart addict. When it comes to décor, that shop is my go-to.

But in the end, my shameless addiction ended up being my saving grace, because I was able to decorate and store a lot of my belongings in the small spaces in my home without breaking the bank.

And now I’m going to help you do the same.

My rule of thumb is this: You have three cushions on your couch; one textured, one with a pattern and one of a solid colour.

I was always told you need a place for drinks no matter where you’re sitting, and this was quite di cult in a small space, but I made do.

You’ve probably seen this hack all over Facebook, but on the outside arms of the two couches I have used a Kmart serving board (pictured) and transformed it into a small drinks table.

I have managed to !t a small table where the two couches meet and a co ee table/storage helps those sitting away from any of the other tables.

On that note, storage space is hard to come by in small spaces, and that’s why my basket co ee table comes in handy when it comes to storing my excessive amount of extra blankets (not every house has heating, no judgement please).

Shelving is also a good way to store and decorate, so I have gone to K mart to purchase a corner shelf to go in my bathroom area.

When it comes to decorating, I always like to make sure I have some greenery in my spaces.

To tie everything together, I’ve purchased green and white foliage and "owers that have all gone on my shelves, the corner of the lounge room and even on my dining room table.

I opted to go with fake "owers for a number of reasons, the main one being they are very di cult to kill (knowing my luck, I may !nd a way).Decorating and furnishing a small space is all about trial and error — you just need to move things around until you !nd the right !t.

And planning is key; have an idea of what you think would look best with or against each colour and texture.

But most of all, have fun with it!

While making that move may send you into a spin and lead to a hairpulling moment or three, I am living proof that it can be done.

PAGE 18—Riverine Herald, Friday, March 26, 2021

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What you feel

WORKS IS OFTEN BEST D Back yourself: Trends come and go, but what works will work forever, says Dollar Curtain and Blind’s Sue Daldy.

Keep it simple: Sometimes keeping it simple is the best option.

on’t follow the trends, follow what works for you.

That’s the advice of Dollars Curtains and Blinds co-owner Sue Daldy.

Sue said people trying to follow what was in or popular often overlooked the longterm aim of !nding something that worked for their home.

“Just because someone else has jumped on something doesn’t mean it’ll work in your home,” she said.

“You need to do what works... you can say ‘that’s lovely, but it wouldn’t work in my home’.”

Sue said going to experts was a good way to help work out what would look good in your home, but she added gut feel often came into the equation.

“It’s a bit of a contradiction, but sometimes your gut feel is the way to go,” Sue said.

Sue had recently done an old home in Deniliquin and said the windows’ character had dictated what curtains and drapes were installed.

“With an older home, trends don’t come into it,” she said.

“Drapes aren’t old hat, and neither are textures... we used three, four, !ve fabrics

and textures which co-ordinated and mixed and matched.”

Sue said looking at each room individually was also crucial in picking the right blinds, and texture played an important role.

“Each room needs to have its own personality, what will work for your kitchen or laundry won’t work for your bedroom,” Sue said.

“You can tie them together, often having the same fabric or colour with four or !ve patterns will work well.”

One trend that has taken o recently are sheers, which provide plenty of options for di erent homes.

“Sheers on windows facing will be getting a heap of sun, so provide a di erent colour and e ect, now coming into autumn you get a di erent glow compared to spring and summer,” Sue said.

During lockdown people spent unprecedented time in their own homes, and a home-improvement boom has been evident across the country.

Sue said it was no di erent in Echuca since lockdown lifted.

“We haven’t stopped, from the Easter lockdown up to Christmas we were going six and a half days a week,” she said.

50+ years of quality craftsmanship with the largest range of custom made curtains+blinds+shutters+ outdoor. dc+b Echuca Ph. 5482 4163 286 Hare Street, Echuca

Riverine Herald, Friday, March 26, 2021—PAGE 19

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al-ive’s sleek collection of hand and body washes make great additions to bathroom and kitchen countertops.

Bonnie and Neil’s bold colours and patterns on show at I Want I Need.

Refresh your space without breaking the bank W

e’ve all seen a lot of the inside of our homes during the past 12 months, probably more than ever before.

As I Want I Need owner Lisa Cox explains, it’s an easy thing to refresh your space without a huge cost.

“If you have a neutral base, you can have a pop of colour to interchange with the seasons, without a large expense,” she said.

“For the sake of two cushions you can change the look of a room from

summer to winter without having to change everything.”

When it comes to building your own style and !lling larger spaces, Ms Cox said artworks were a great starting point.

“It’s nice to have something bold you can then coordinate with cushions, vases, live plants or beautiful "oral arrangements,” she said.

“People’s homes are re"ecting their personality a bit more because they’ve had time to work out what they do and don’t like, rather than just going with the trends.

“There’s no right or wrong or having to look uniformed — everything can be mixed and matched.”

Coming into autumn, Ms Cox said the colours and patterns were bolder than the grey tones of previous years.

“There’s beautiful mustard and auburn tones, and brands are also mixing colours,” she said.

“Designers are being bolder, which means we can be, too, because the products are out there and not overly expensive.”

I Want I Need has recently added the brand Bonnie and Neil to their shelves, o ering unique colours and patterns in their cushions and homewares, while natural and Australian-made al-ive hand and body washes come in sleek designs.

“They have beautiful colours and look lovely out on the bench or next to the sink,” Ms Cox said.

“They’re just little coordinating pieces in your home, but they all tie

back together, without actually doing a lot.”

The Echuca store also o ers bespoke furniture pieces, a lot of which are Australian-made and make for a great one-o .

I Want I Need has product catalogues and can order custom pieces to !t your home perfectly.

“Particularly in furniture, there’s a new trend going away from grey to more beige, natural tones again,” Ms Cox said.

“They’re going back to that natural tone of timber and softer oaks rather than heavier walnuts, and coordinating to make your space lighter and brighter.”

As the weather cools and we spend more time living indoors, why not make the space around you something you’re proud of and makes you happy?

PAGE 20—Riverine Herald, Friday, March 26, 2021

riverineherald.com.au

PUTTING CUSTOMERS FIRST L

ynette Melis has been in the !nance industry for more than 20 years, 12 of those as a broker.

Four years ago, she purchased a Loan Market Franchise and opened the shop in Kyabram three years ago.

“Our business is based on the customer, not a bank,” Ms Melis said.

“We love seeing the customer in a better position, whether this be buying your !rst home, constructing a new home, re!nancing, debt consolidation or obtaining a loan for a car, personal or asset !nance.”

There are many ways to approach buying your !rst home, and you may be eligible for !rst-home buyer grants or concessions.

“Buying your very !rst home is an exciting time, but it can also be full of complicated jargon, inspections, paperwork, and hair-pulling moments,” she said.

“Getting the right advice from the right mortgage broker can make all the di erence in the world,.”

Despite interest rates dropping to historic lows, less than 10 per cent of mortgage holders in Australia have re!nanced.

“That means millions of customers are paying extra interest for no reason or bene!t,” Ms Melis said.

“Especially when you have a broker

like me that’s here to do the heavy lifting for you.

“Let me say this loudly, loyalty to a bank doesn’t necessarily pay anymore and they know that we Aussies like to stick with the brands we know.

“Banks can be guilty of taking their current clients for granted.

“You may have a long-term savings account with a bank, but that doesn’t guarantee you a great home loan.”

Ms Melis said loyalty was a characteristic she valued, but when it came to home loans it could end up costing more in repayments than was necessary.

That’s when you’ve got to question the value of asking your bank, directly, for a loan.

Nine reasons you’ll love a broker more than you love your bank: 1. You get someone who works for you.

Banks work for their shareholders.

2. You bene!t from a comparison of more than 60 banks and lenders who o er thousands of loans.

3. You will have someone with you for the long haul, regularly checking in on your loan to ensure it aligns with your goals.

4. You will have someone !ghting for the !ttest rate on the market.

5. You will get a loan that matches

Kyabram Loan Market owner and !nance broker Lynette Miles and customer service manager Karen Jackson.

6.

7.

8.

9.

your needs and goals, not the !rst product on the shelf.

You will have a professional on your side advising on rates, repayments, incentives and contracts.

From the !rst fact !nd to the !nal repayment, I am with you all the way.

You won’t be left alone to negotiate with banks, agents, conveyancers, accountants.

Oh, and did I mention that having

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“We will search high and low, across hundreds of products, and lenders on our panel to !nd you the best loan for your circumstances,” Ms Melis said.

“A Loan Market broker is part of a family-owned company, we genuinely want what’s right for you.”

Phone Loan Market Kyabram on 5852 1432 or email kyadmin@loanmarket. com.au or visit loanmarket.com.au/ brokers/lynette-melis

Riverine Herald, Friday, March 26, 2021—PAGE 21

riverineherald.com.au

There's floors galore at There

Ro Rochester Floors N

ICK Ryan has been laying !oors around Victoria and interstate for the past 20 years.

So, to say he has enough knowledge on the subject to help you choose your perfect carpet or vinyl is an understatement.

But as a Rochester boy at heart, he couldn’t help coming back to his hometown to set up shop at Rochester Floors six years ago.

“I did my apprenticeship here with the previous owners after I left school and really enjoyed it,” Mr Ryan said.

“My cousin was actually doing his carpet and !oor laying apprenticeship and I decided that would be a good career path for me.”

After "nishing his studies Mr Ryan decided to move to Queensland to get some more experience in the industry before making his way home.

Since then, he has created a range of close professional and customer relationships.

“When the local builders go on a job, usually they will ring me to take over the !ooring side of things whether it’s a commercial job or residential,” he said.

“It’s really great knowing you’re trusted in the community you work in.

“I’ve also got a lot of loyal customers I enjoy doing jobs for.”

But he doesn’t just cover the Rochester area.

“I enjoy travelling and meeting new people, so I’ve been able to take my work all over the state,” Mr Ryan said.

“You just want to give your customers the best products and the best service possible.”

During the COVID–19 lockdown, Mr Ryan found he was in for a lot more work.

“I think because everyone was locked up in their homes and couldn’t go on holidays, they thought they would do up their houses,” he said.

“I had a lot of people come to me saying they wanted to update their !oors, and I was happy to help.”

Nick Ryan of Rochester Floors.

With a range of brands and !ooring styles, Mr Ryan will have the right product for you.

“I would highly recommend the brand Bremworth for anyone looking or good quality carpet,” he said.

“They’re made from 100 per cent New Zealand wool which means they’re better for the environment than some who use nylon in their carpets.

“They really do pride themselves on the quality of their products.”

If you’d like to get in contact with Mr Ryan and see what he has to o er, you can phone him on 5484 3227. The shop is also open by appointment at 82-84 Echuca Rd, Rochester.

? g in r o o l f w e n d e Ne Call Nick for a FREE quote today

BY APPOINTMENT ONLY Mobile: 0433 811 183 | Phone: 03 5484 3227 82-84 Echuca Road, Rochester E: nick@rochyfloors.com

PAGE 22—Riverine Herald, Friday, March 26, 2021

riverineherald.com.au

SMART HOMES GROWING IN POPULARITY A

Safe and secure: Switched On Electronics' Michael Deola.

smart home allows homeowners to control appliances, thermostats, lights and other devices remotely using a smartphone or tablet through an internet connection. Using your mobile phone, devices can be controlled from anywhere in the world.

Voice commands can also be used to control appliances while you are at home.

Smart Home systems are rapidly growing in popularity, according to Switched On Electronics’ owner Michael Deola.

They are also environmentally friendly as signi!cant power savings can be made by controlling your appliances remotely.

Another area that is very popular at Switched On Electronics is home security systems. Mr Deola said camera systems with anywhere from four to 16 cameras had been selling well.

“There are a lot of systems available, some have higher resolution cameras, some are wireless and some can be viewed on a phone or tablet from anywhere,” he said.

“A lot of people are having break-ins or know neighbours having issues and want to set up security systems as a deterrent and to capture what is going on in and around the house.”

Weather stations are also proving popular in the home, and can provide information such as rainfall, temperature, humidity, wind speed and pressure.

“They are popular all year round and are becoming a must-have item,” Mr Deola said.

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Riverine Herald, Friday, March 26, 2021—PAGE 23

riverineherald.com.au

Garden Is your

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MAKEOVER?

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KYABRAM & DISTRICT GARDEN SUPPLIES is a family-owned business providing an extensive range of Quality garden and landscape supplies to residential and trade customers with no order being too big or small.

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We offer fast and effective delivery on a huge selection of all things

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PAGE 24—Riverine Herald, Friday, March 26, 2021

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