Spring 2026
style & design · home · lifestyle · backyard
welcome
YOU CAN SEE THE riverside luxury of NDB Building Group’s latest project home. This substantial 1000-square-metre, high-end escape was designed as a true haven from work, with exceptional entertaining spaces framed by magnificent views of the Murray River. If your budget is slightly different, three home builders have displays in the works at Yallarah Estate, Echuca. Simonds Homes has opened a display showcasing the Riverview 29, a contemporary family home with spacious open-plan living, practical functionality and modern finishes. G.J. Gardner, Shepparton is opening a display home in November 2026, a large-family home with three separate living zones wrapped around a central courtyard, encouraging natural light and flow throughout the home. Southern Vale Homes is planning three display homes, all expected to open from October 2026, showcasing different designs from the range, with homes for downsizers, first-home buyers or growing families. Take a walk with Our Home’s journalist Louie Cina through the Moama Botanic Gardens with the friends group. Officially opened in 2011, the gardens showcase the beauty of Australia’s natural offerings in the area,
featuring exclusively native and Indigenous plants that burst with colour throughout the year. In this edition’s Style Edit, the range of stylish, affordable and practical LED light options from Roundabout Light Echuca has been lit up to brighten your home. Everyone is loving the range of Nordic-style H2 Seating at S&J Furniture, combining comfort with style and practicality. For the garden, you can learn how to transform your street frontage with the right plan from The Garden Planners, what natives to plant in our region and advice from our local lawn growers, Coolabah Turf, on the range of grass varieties suited to the Echuca-Moama region. This is just a taste of what is on offer in Our Home, with more on solar installation, advice on finding a builder, conveyancing, banking, getting a good night’s sleep, looking after your roof, and choosing a shed. There is so much to enjoy in Our Home, spring. Jaci Hicken Journalist
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Spring 2026
WRITERS
Jaci Hicken Louie Cina
EDITOR
McPherson Media Group
PHOTOGRAPHY
Jordan Townrow
ADVERTISING
Phone 5482 1111 Laura Ham Kerry Vevers Corrie Seabrook
COVER:
NDB Building Group Photo: Cindy Power
Our Home
Published by Riverine Herald | 28 Percy St, Echuca VIC 3654 | 5482 1111
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Botanic gardens burst with life 3 Transform a garden with natives 6 Style Edit 7 Discover ultimate comfort 8 with Scandinavian recliners at S&J Furniture 8 Luxury riverside retreat 10 Solar solutions for rising energy costs 14 Simonds Homes unveils Riverview 29 display home 16 Keeping banking in communities 18 How to choose a registered builder 20 Cut energy bills with Electric Saul 21 For a better night’s sleep 22 G.J. Gardner Homes Shepparton to unveil new Echuca display home 24 Roof protection saves money 26 Transform lawn with Coolabah Turf 27 Palette trends to create new looks 29 Building homes and connections 32 Turning plans into gardens 34 Stress-free property deals 36 Story has been cut back. 36 Cook fast or slow: you choose 37
contents
the team
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Botanic gardens burst with life AS SPRING ROLLS AROUND, MOAMA BOTANIC GARDENS ARE BURSTING TO LIFE WITH THE GREEN THUMBS BEHIND ITS UPKEEP INVITING VISITORS AND LOCALS ALIKE TO TAKE A STROLL AND GET LOST IN AN “OASIS OF NATURE”. LOCATED AT THE HEART of Moama Recreational Reserve, the gardens designed by landscape artist Chris Dance feature a lake, dry billabong, settlers’ garden, and much more showcasing the beauty of Australia’s natural offerings. Starting as a community project to enhance the recreation reserve, the gardens are now supported by Murray River Council and a dedicated team of volunteers that meet weekly to get their hands dirty.
The garden’s longest-serving volunteer Nancye Smith
Moama Botanic Gardens volunteers (from left) Ron Hicks, Rhonda Dorgan, Nancye Smith, Sally Cuttriss, Dinah O’Donoghue, and Suzanne Zammit.
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Spring 2026
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Officially opened in 2011, they’re enjoyed regularly by schools, community groups, and locals from both sides of the border who come to wander the paths, relax on the benches, and take in the wide variety of wildlife that passes through the gardens. Populated almost exclusively with native and Indigenous plants, the space offers different bursts of colour throughout the year, with volunteer Nancye Smith saying warmer months were a great time to visit. “Spring is beautiful because you get all the new leaves,” Ms Smith said. “The variety of different foliage is just gorgeous.” From flowering wattles to paths carpeted with gum blossoms and thriving Indigenous grasses, every corner is picturesque and a demonstration of how to create thriving green space in local conditions. Sally Cuttriss, a volunteer at the gardens, said visitors should properly take the time to explore the space and see if inspiration strikes them. “People don’t need to rush through the gardens,” Sally said. “Take it all in, drink it in.” Volunteer Ron Hicks said lots of the techniques on show at the Botanic Gardens could be easily replicated at home. “We’re on a flood plain here,” Ron said. “It’s clay soils, and you’ll get a better garden if you mound up. “We’ve bought dirt in and then used a little bit of light mulching to keep the weeds down a bit.” He’s inviting visitors to come and see how some of the garden’s native displays draw attention, even when flowers aren’t blooming. “When you’re planting a native garden, you’re looking at planting a whole lot of different forms of leaves,” Ron said. “You get a lot of different things that range from really bright greens through to greys (because) when you’ve got no flowers, it’s the leaves that provide interest and the colour and form provide that. “If you do it in your home garden, low plants at the front, higher plants at the back.” The gardens longest serving volunteer Nancye Smith has one big tip she wants visitors to take from seeing the gardens. It’s the same thing she tells every prospective volunteer, and, as is the case with all the best advice, it’s something she’s learnt from her mother. “Never walk past a weed,” Nancye said. “Come and enjoy the plants as they go through their cycle of flowering and growth. “Sit (on one of the benches) and watch the world go by, you’ll be surprised with what you see. “There’s so many birds and it’s just so peaceful. “It’s becoming such a beautiful area now with everything growing.” The Moama Botanic Gardens are always open and entry is free. The gardens are located at 52 Perricoota Rd, Moama, near the playground. To volunteer, show up to one of the group’s sessions, which run every Monday morning from 9am.
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Transform a garden with natives FRIENDS OF MOAMA BOTANIC GARDEN VOLUNTEER RON HICKS IS REGARDED AS A GREEN THUMB, IN GROWING NATIVE PLANTS SUITED TO THE REGION.
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Spring 2026
RON SUGGESTED NATIVE PLANTS YOU CAN CHOOSE FROM INCLUDE: • Correa reflexa for winter colour • Eucalyptus erythronema for a small tree up to four metres high • Grevillea thelemanniana for ground cover • Lomandra for a spiky texture. • Thryptomene saxicola to add colour
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Grevillea can enhance a garden.
OUR HOME ASKED RON which native plants we could plant to enhance the streetscape of our homes and would thrive in local conditions. Echuca-Moama’s weather varies from scorching summer days to below-freezing winter frost, so for any plant to succeed in your streetscape, you need to consider a few things. “You think it is such a simple task, to pick half a dozen plants, but then I thought about it,” Ron said. “It not only depends upon the site and conditions of your garden, but also the expectations of what people want from a garden.” Ron said to consider the structure of your garden to suit the home, whether you want lawn or not, what you want to attract to your garden, and how much maintenance you want to do. “The good thing about natives is that they come in such a wide range,” he said. “Even within a species, there are many options for height, width, colour and texture.”
• Hardenbergia violacea “Mini-Haha” a native sarsaparilla to attract native butterflies • Eremophila waitii with deep purple flowers and soft grey foliage. To find out more about what native plants suit the Echuca-Moama regions and thrive in our conditions, you can discover over 300 different specimens of Australian native plants and flowers at the Australian Plants Society, Echuca annual Native Flower Showcase. You will find the Native Flower Showcase at the Echuca Masonic Lodge on Saturday, October 3 from 9am to 3pm.
Style Edit ROUNDABOUT LIGHTING ECHUCA IS DEDICATED TO LIGHTS, WITH A WIDE RANGE OF STYLISH, AFFORDABLE, AND PRACTICAL LED FITTINGS THAT HAVE A REAL SIGNIFICANT EFFECT ON THE FINAL FINISH OF YOUR HOME. IN THIS EDITION OF Our Home, journalist Jaci Hicken picked out her favourite lighting trends and fixtures to brighten and style your home. All the lights featured are popular when designing a lighting plan for your new home or renovation. FIRAN TRAVERTINE LED WALL LIGHT (A) Travertine is one of the latest design trends, blending natural stone finishes with an earthy feel. This round bowl wall light is designed for indoor spaces, serving as a functional light source and a striking decorative feature that creates a soft, ambient halo effect. On sale from $139 (RRP: $169).
(A)
SAGITTA RIBBED TRAVERTINE TABLE LAMP (B) Bringing understated sophistication to any space with a warm beige travertine base and soft fabric drum shade. On sale from $230.05 (RRP: $249). OSTEL LED RIBBED WALL EXTERIOR LIGHT (C) Clean architectural design with subtle ridged detailing, the Ostel, in either a black or white finish, is ideal for illuminating both indoor and outdoor spaces. On Sale from $179 (RRP: $199) TOURBILLION 7-BLADE XL CEILING FAN (D) You can add some ‘wow’ to a room with the impressive 7-Blade XL ceiling fan available in matt black, titanium and matt white, for both indoor and outdoor spaces. On sale from $699 (RRP: $799) LOGIK 3-LIGHT SPOTLIGHT TRACK KIT (E) Integrated LED lighting in either 12-watt or 18-watt configurations, available in black or white finishes, with three CCT colour selections to adjust the ambience to suit your needs and enhance both residential and commercial spaces. On sale from $159 (RRP: $169).
(C)
(D)
(E)
Our Home Spring 2026
PRINIA LED LINEA PENDANT LIGHT BLACK (F) For that sleek and stylish ribbed light fitting that not only looks good over kitchen benches or your dining room table, but also adds a touch of refinement to your space. On sale from $699 (RRP: $899). For free lighting design and consultations either in store or on site, get in touch with George Drakatos at Roundabout Lighting Echuca at 169 Pakenham St, Echuca, Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm or Saturday 9am to 12.30pm, phone (03) 5480 2238 or visit roundaboutlighting.com.au
(B)
(F)
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Discover ultimate comfort
with Scandinavian recliners at S&J Furniture
H2 SEATING IS A NORWEGIAN BRAND OF SCANDINAVIANSTYLED COMFORT RECLINERS NOW MAKING ITS WAY INTO AUSTRALIAN HOMES, INCLUDING THROUGH OUR OWN S&J FURNITURE, ECHUCA.
Our Home
Spring 2026
H2 SEATING DIRECTOR SAM Joukadjian said the company was “founded by Nils Hjellegjerde, whose family has a 70-plus-year pedigree in furniture design and manufacturing.” “The company’s head office, research and development, and marketing are based in Sykkylven, Norway, while all manufacturing takes place in Bangkok, Thailand.” Sam describes the Bangkok facility as a state-of-theart, fully vertically integrated factory, employing the latest in robotics and numerically controlled equipment ensuring top quality and consistency. Nils Hjellegjerde himself lives in Bangkok, and one of his children has already joined the company there after graduating from university in Oslo. H2 Seating products are engineered from the ground up, with Sam highlighting innovations in comfort and sizing. “Chair and footstool designs all come in three sizes,
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while gliders and lifts mostly come in two sizes with one range coming in three sizes and having the capacity to sit a person up to 160kg in weight,” he said. Foams are moulded on steel frames and incorporate steel spring suspension systems. S&J Furniture stocks a number of H2 Seating’s Norsit chair and footstool range. “At S&J Furniture, Echuca, my favourite chair would be the Carlson, available in three sizes,” Sam said. “It is one of the most attractive and comfortable chairs in our range. “Of course, beauty is in the eyes of the beholder and comfort is a matter of finding the correct fit between the chair and your body. “Comfort is the foundation of H2 Seating. “There are a few other brands that incorporate some of the features of the H2 chairs, but no brand can come near to delivering all the comfort engineering features of H2 Seating.”
The brand’s wellness range is particularly relevant for older Australians, featuring separate motors for backs and legs, a motorised headrest, motorised lumbar support, heating in the seat and back, massage, and zero gravity positioning. “As Australians live longer and stay in their home longer, they are looking for chairs that will assist them with mobility issues,” he said. On broader trends, Sam observes that while younger buyers may compromise on comfort due to budget constraints, older customers “generally cannot and should not compromise comfort.” He also notes a growing number of baby boomers are downsizing and seeking comfortable furniture that is not oversized. “One feature everyone wants is comfort,” he said. H2 Seating’s range includes recliners, available in swivel glider, signature glider, nordic, and modern designs, as well as sofas, lounges, and home theatre seating. All products feature high-density cold-cure moulded foam cushioning for ergonomic support and durability. S&J Furniture is our locally owned and operated furniture store supplying quality imported and Australian-made furniture to the Echuca-Moama region, including a full range of living, bedroom, outdoor, homewares and decor, dining and lounge suites. S&J Furniture is located at 79-85 Ogilvie Ave, Echuca, and is open Monday to Thursday, 9am to 5.30pm, Friday, 9am to 5pm and Saturday, 9am to 3pm. Customers can call (03) 5480 7912 or email kjbretail@bigpond.com for enquiries.
PERFECT FOR OUTDOOR LIVING…
CALL IN TO VIEW EXCITING NEW MODELS AVAILABLE NOW Our Home 160570
79 – 85 Ogilvie Ave, Echuca (03) 5480 7912
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Spring 2026
S&J
Luxury riverside retreat NDB BUILDING GROUP, IN PARTNERSHIP WITH LINEA TECNICA ARCHITECTS, HAS COMPLETED A BOUTIQUE LUXURY HOME ON THE MURRAY RIVER.
Our Home
Spring 2026
THE RIVERSIDE RESIDENCE SPANS 1000 square metres, including garage areas, and features seven bedrooms and six bathrooms. Linea Tecnica Architects principal architect Vic Sibillin said the home was conceived as a high-end escape without sacrificing functionality. “Inspired by the concept of a sophisticated riverside retreat, this substantial home is designed as a true haven from work while providing exceptional spaces for entertaining large corporate groups and family gatherings,” he said.
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“Framed by magnificent views of the Murray River and expansive rear gardens, the residence combines relaxed luxury with practicality, featuring dedicated work areas, a bar-style entertainment room, a sloping-floor home theatre, and a striking 25-metre lap pool with a glazed wall extending below the waterline.” The home is constructed from rendered brick veneer and rendered panel cladding, with black powder coated commercial aluminium windows and a concrete ground floor slab. Carrara marble flooring runs throughout,
The home features a 25-metre lap pool with a unique glazed wall extending below the waterline.
The riverside residence boasts seven bedrooms, six bathrooms, and various entertainment spaces designed for large gatherings. ˯
The company behind the project, NDB Building Group, has a strong reputation in Melbourne and regional Victoria, focusing on high-end construction with attention to detail.
Joinery throughout is two-pack painted with white stone bench tops, and built-in television units feature in multiple rooms. The home theatre is a standout feature, equipped with tiered reclining cinema seating, a 4K projector and cinematic screen, and 7.2.4 surround sound. Scene-controlled lighting, curtains and sound-absorbing panelling and curtains to control reverberation and echo complete the cinema experience. Bluetooth music zones extend throughout the house, including the riverside barbecue area.
Our Home Spring 2026
complemented by 100 per cent wool carpets. The interior palette is deliberately restrained, with Vic describing it as “extremely simple, white throughout including walls, ceilings, cabinets and stonework to floors, bathrooms and benches,” with feature trims of black window frames and timber veneer door panels. The kitchen and entertaining areas are fitted with Gaggenau cookware, Liebherr fridges and wine fridges, a Miele dishwasher and laundry appliances, commercial-grade glass washers, ice makers and glassfronted bar fridges.
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Vic said his favourite part of the home is “the rear open living area with the glazed window wall which extends down into the waterline and the fully retracting rear wall which opens directly onto the pool and BBQ area.” He said the decision to engage NDB Building Group came down to capability and track record. “The size of the home, the design details, the finishing details required a builder with good resources and resourcing skills, sound construction and finishing techniques, and high-quality workmanship,” he said. “All of which NDB can provide.” NDB Building Group director Nick Burls said the company had spent two decades building its reputation across Melbourne and regional Victoria. “We’re a country-based high-end building company,” he said. “Our goal was to bring a Melbourne feel to country Victoria.” Nick said assembling the right team had been central to the company’s success. “We spent a lot of time getting the right team around us. “If you don’t have the right team, you don’t have the right product.” Nick said the company’s approach to trades sets it apart from competitors. “We don’t necessarily chase prices,” he said. “We use the same trades all the time through all our projects.” Some tradespeople have worked with NDB for more than 20 years, and client relationships have proven equally enduring. “I’ve still got clients who ring me up,” Nick said. “We’ve built houses for them 20 years ago, and we still have a really good relationship with them.” For Nick, delivering a completed home to a client remains the most rewarding part of the job. “When you finally finish a project and you realise what you’ve handed the client is exactly what they wanted, it’s their dream, and you’ve produced their dream,” he said. “We want them to be proud of what we’ve achieved and what they’ve achieved, because it’s one of the biggest things you’ll tackle in your life.” For NDB Building Group to achieve the dream home you want, go to ndbbuilding.com. au to find out more.
˄ The kitchen is equipped with high-end appliances like Gaggenau cookware, Liebherr fridges, and Miele dishwasher, while the joinery is two-pack painted with white stone benchtops.
Our Home
Spring 2026
The home features a home theatre with top-notch equipment and scene-controlled lighting and sound systems. ˂
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Delivering premium building solutions with professionalism and precision, supported by highly qualified and respected staff who provide expert guidance and tailored advice throughout every stage of your building or renovation journey.
NDB Building Group 77 Wharparilla Drive Echuca | 0447 317 242 | www.ndbbuilding.com.au
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From bespoke new homes and seamless extensions to refined renovations, we offer tailored solutions to bring your vision to life. Whether you’re looking to expand your existing home or create your dream residence, our team delivers with precision and care. From garages and fencing to thoughtfully designed additional rooms, our services are comprehensive no detail too small, no project too ambitious.
Solar solutions for rising energy costs ACTIVE ENERGY GROUP IS A FAMILY-OWNED AND OPERATED BUSINESS BASED IN KYABRAM, SPECIALISING IN SOLAR PANEL INSTALLATION, BATTERY STORAGE AND ELECTRIC VEHICLE CHARGERS FOR RESIDENTIAL PROPERTIES.
Our Home
Spring 2026
ACTIVE ENERGY GROUP’S KARA Canny said the business had built its reputation on quality products and workmanship over more than 16 years. “Residential solar is an essential service for your household these days, due to the demand and increase in energy costs,” Kara said. With installations that meet and exceed Australian standards, the company guides customers through every step of the process, from initial consultation to ongoing maintenance. Battery storage is becoming an increasingly popular choice among homeowners. “We are finding 80 per cent of households we install solar on are electing to get battery storage due to the recent rebates available and ever-increasing power bills,” Kara said. The company is also a certified Tesla Powerwall installer, offering customers a robust battery storage option. Several rebate programs are currently available to help offset costs. “There are currently many rebates available, including STC solar PV rebate, STC cheaper home battery program and Solar Victoria PV state rebate,” Kara said. New home builders are also encouraged to consider solar early in the construction process. “New builds now need to meet a 7-star energy rating which solar can form part of,” Kara said. “Many households are electing to install PV and battery on their new build. “Typically, we always like to sit down with clients before the house is wired to get required cabling installed prior to plastering occurring.” EV charging is another growing area of the business. “EV chargers have come a long way over the last two years,” Kara said. “We now have the availability to charge your EV from excess solar generated from your house.” Active Energy Group can design and install EV charging solutions tailored to a customer’s property, vehicle and existing electrical system.
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For those considering adding solar to an existing home, Kara says most properties are suitable. “Retrofitting on a home is generally, in most cases of installations, dependent on the home’s age and building materials, and the location of equipment,” she said. The benefits of making the switch are wide-ranging. “These may include cutting down on energy costs, blackout protection and adding value to the property,” she said. For a free consultation and to find out how much you could save on your power bill, contact Active Energy Group on 0456 800 232, sales@activeenergygroup.com.au or pop into our location at 108 Allan St, Kyabram. For more information on solar panel installation, battery storage and electric vehicle chargers for residential properties, go to activeenergygroup.com.au
˄Active Energy Group, based in Kyabram, specialises in solar panel installation, battery storage, and electric vehicle chargers for residential properties.
Echuca’s local builder.
Discover your dream home at our brand-new display centre at Yallarah.
SharonStratton Stratton Sharon
sharon.statton@simonds.com.au sharon.statton@simonds.com.au 77Yakoa YakoaNatya NatyaAve, Ave,Echuca Echuca 77
Simonds Homes unveils R SIMONDS HOMES HAS OPENED A NEW DISPLAY HOME AT YAKOA NATYA AVE, YALLARAH ESTATE, ECHUCA.
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Spring 2026
THE DISPLAY HOME SHOWCASES the Riverview 29, a contemporary family home designed with spacious open-plan living, practical functionality and modern finishes. Simonds Homes new home specialist Sharon Stratton said helping people achieve the Australian dream of home ownership was what drove her passion. “I enjoy helping people bring their dream of home ownership to life,” she said. “Every client has a unique vision, and it’s rewarding to guide them through the journey and see them move into a home that’s perfectly suited to their lifestyle.” The display Riverview 29 is a four-bedroom family home set on an 18m x 35m block, which requires a minimum block width of 14m and depth of 32m to build new. The Riverview 29 would suit a broad range of home buyers. “When visiting Simonds Homes at Yallarah Estate, visitors will experience thoughtfully designed living spaces, quality inclusions and plenty of inspiration for building their own new home,” Sharon said. “The Riverview 29 is ideal for growing families, upsizers and buyers looking for a spacious home that offers multiple living areas, generous bedrooms and flexible spaces for entertaining, working from home or relaxing.” The display home features the Wentworth façade, which Sharon describes as a modern and timeless design. “It combines quality materials and clean architectural lines for a welcoming first impression,” she said. The exterior combines premium brickwork, contemporary cladding and feature materials with decked outdoor living areas. A striking corner-dressed gable adds character and creates exceptional street appeal. The exterior colour palette blends light greige, soft cream and rich charcoal tones, with dark roofing and window frames providing contrast. Sharon said the design is well suited to the local region. “The contemporary yet timeless design suits the relaxed lifestyle of the region and uses durable, low-maintenance materials that perform well in the local climate,” she said. Buyers can personalise their home with a wide range of colour palettes, façade combinations and decorative concrete driveway options, subject to developer requirements. Inside, the Riverview 29 has been designed to feel light and spacious. “The interior has been designed to feel light, spacious and welcoming, with open-plan living spaces that connect seamlessly to the kitchen and outdoor entertaining areas,” Sharon said. “It balances functionality with modern style, making it ideal for everyday family living.” 16
The kitchen is central to the design. “The kitchen has been designed as the heart of the home, offering generous bench space, quality cabinetry, modern finishes and excellent functionality,” Sharon said. Appliance upgrades are available through the Simonds selection process. The master suite is positioned behind the front living room and includes a walk-in robe and ensuite. The home’s corner block orientation allows the master suite to enjoy direct access to the covered verandah beneath the striking feature gable, creating a seamless indoor-outdoor connection and a peaceful space to relax. Tiled flooring runs throughout the main living and wet areas, complementing the home’s cool, contemporary palette of soft natural tones and timber accents. Simonds homeowners can also select from a wide range of cabinetry, benchtops, flooring, tiles, tapware, handles, paint colours and lighting options.
iverview 29 display home
Simonds Homes new home specialist Sharon Stratton. Sharon encouraged anyone dreaming of building in the region to pop in, wander through the display and imagine what life could look like in a brand-new Simonds home. “We encourage anyone considering building in Echuca or the surrounding region to visit the display home, explore the design in person and speak with our team about creating a home that suits their lifestyle,” she said.
“Simonds has a long history of helping Australian families build with confidence, and we’re proud to be a trusted builder in the Echuca region.” You can visit the Simonds Homes Riverview 29 display home at 77 Yakoa Natya Ave, Yallarah Estate, Echuca, open daily from 12pm–5pm Monday to Wednesday, and 11am–5pm Saturday and Sunday.
MORE THAN JUST SPACE... TOTAL PEACE OF MIND!
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50 CCTV CAMERAS
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GATE CODED ENTRY
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• Roofing and gutters • All general maintenance
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17-25 NORTHERN HIGHWAY, ECHUCA VIC 3564
thestorageboxechuca.com.au
Echuca Moama
(03) 5480 1079 echucamoama@plumbing.obrien.com.au Vic Lic. 108619 | NSW Lic. 140142
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Spring 2026
NEED A SPACE TO PUT YOUR CAR?
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Right here in Echuca!
0417 171 352
• TMV and backflow install and testing
for your goods in storage.
SAFE, SECURE & LOCAL
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• Blocked drains, Hydro jetter and camera
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MATTERS MOST
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˄The Riverview 29 is a contemporary family home with spacious open-plan living, ideal for growing families, upsizers, and buyers seeking multiple living areas.
Keeping banking in communities COMMUNITY BANKS IN ELMORE, LOCKINGTON, ROCHESTER, RUSHWORTH, AND TONGALA OPERATE AS LOCAL FRANCHISES OF BENDIGO BANK, PROVIDING A FULL RANGE OF BANKING SERVICES INCLUDING EVERYDAY BANKING, HOME LENDING, BUSINESS BANKING, AGRIBUSINESS LENDING AND MORE.
Our Home
Spring 2026
WHILE SO MUCH BANKING can now be done online, there’s still real value in having access to quality, face-to-face service from local people who genuinely care about their communities. Community Banks understand that getting into a branch isn’t always convenient, so teams are happy to meet customers at a time and place that suits them. Community Bank Elmore, Lockington, and Rochester senior branch manager James Pietromonaco brings more than 12 years of experience with Bendigo Bank across consumer banking. “I started my career in customer service before progressing into lending, which has given me a broad understanding of our customers and their banking needs,” he said. Mr Pietromonaco said the role offered rewards beyond the counter. “I love helping our customers achieve their goals, whether that’s buying a home, growing a business or
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Community Bank Elmore, Lockington, and Rochester senior branch manager James Pietromonaco. simply making their everyday banking easier,” he said. “Even better is knowing that by helping our customers, we’re also helping our community as a whole.” Community Bank Rushworth and Tongala senior branch manager Hamish Urquhart brings more than 15 years of banking experience, beginning with NAB
under a cadetship at age 18. He has since worked across finance and insurance broking, mortgage broking, and Queensland Country Bank, and holds a Bachelor of Finance and Economics completed with distinction. “The absolute best part of my job is the genuine connection to our community,” Mr Urquhart said. “With Bendigo Bank’s unique model, we aren’t just a place to deposit money; we are actively feeding profit back into local projects, sporting clubs, and infrastructure.” He said leading his local teams and working with community partners to help the towns thrive was “incredibly rewarding”. “Every day, I get to see the direct, positive impact our banking has on Rushworth and Tongala,” he said. Community Banks are proud to keep banking services and local jobs in towns, while returning up to 80 per cent of profits back to the community. It means that when locals choose to bank with Community Banks, the benefits flow well beyond the individual customer. The local board of directors determines where that funding is directed, helping ensure it reaches a broad range of local needs and initiatives, from education and sport to the arts, community groups and essential services. To date, Community Banks in Elmore, Lockington, Rochester, Rushworth and Tongala have contributed more than $7.8 million into the local communities. Community Bank Elmore is located at 62 Railway Place, Elmore, and can be contacted on 5432
6706 or elmoremailbox@bendigoadelaide.com.au. Community Bank Lockington is at 9-11 Lockington Rd, Lockington, phone 5486 2304 or lockingtonmailbox@bendigoadelaide.com.au. Community Bank Rochester is at 24 Gillies St, Rochester, phone 5484 3290 or rochestermailbox@ bendigoadelaide.com.au. Community Bank Rushworth and District is at 23 High St, Rushworth, phone 5856 2122 Community Bank Tongala is at 35 Mangan St, Tongala, phone 5859 1401. Branches are open Monday to Friday from 9.30am. For more information about community banking in Elmore, Lockington, Rochester, Rushworth, and Tongala, go to lockmore. com.au
Community Bank Rushworth and Tongala senior branch manager Hamish Urquhart.
Your local Community Bank knows banking If you need help with yours, talk to your local bankers Hamish or James. They can meet you when and where it suits you; at the branch, over the phone or via video call. And when you bank with us, profits pour into your local community. Find out more. Call us today or search Bendigo Bank. Community Bank • Rushworth and Tongala
Community Bank • Elmore, Lockington and Rochester
Hamish Urquhart Senior Branch Manager
James Pietromonaco Senior Branch Manager
0499 103 502
0413 852 757
James.Pietromonaco@bendigoadelaide.com.au
Our Home
Hamish.urquhart@bendigoadelaide.com.au
Spring 2026
Community Bank Rushworth • Tongala • Elmore • Lockington • Rochester Bendigo and Adelaide Bank Limited ABN 11 068 049 178 Australian Credit Licence 237879. (2208258-2207698) (07/25)
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How to choose a registered builder THE HOUSING INDUSTRY ASSOCIATION REPRESENTS BUSINESSES ACROSS THE HOME BUILDING SECTOR, FROM LARGE VOLUME BUILDERS TO SMALL OPERATORS.
The Housing Industry Association Victoria executive director Keith Ryan thinks verifying a builder’s registration is crucial as there are unlicensed businesses in the industry, especially in renovations. Keith recommends asking to speak with recent clients as a further check. “Many builders, and particularly the experienced and good builders, will be happy for you to talk to some of their clients,” he said. “If the clients aren’t available or aren’t provided, that is possibly a warning that things aren’t great.” If a dispute arises, Keith advises raising it directly with the builder first. “Good builders will go out of their way to try and resolve any problems you have,” he said.
If that fails, the BPC offers a free dispute resolution service. “They’re (BPC) keen to try and get disputes resolved sooner rather than later,” Keith said. He also urges buyers to lock in exactly what is to be built before signing a contract. “A lot of problems between builders and consumers come about because the consumer and, to be frank, the builder as well, have decided, let’s start the process or start building, and we can work out some details later,” he said. Volume builders, in particular, have less flexibility to accommodate changes once construction begins. “Particularly if you're going with a volume builder or builder who's charging a lower price, they will tend to be locking in things,” Keith said. “They'll have certainty about what’s going to be built, so they can be sure about the cost and who’s going to do what, and therefore, they’re less able to change as things go. “Whereas other builders, particularly the project builders, are more flexible, provided you’re reasonable about negotiating the variation. “Be mindful that sometimes, if you think you’ve got flexibility, you might find it gets a bit harder if the builder is well under way.”
Beautiful bedrooms start here. Whether you're building, renovating or simply refreshing your space, creating a bedroom you'll love starts with the right advice. Visit Forty Winks Echuca and discover how the right bedroom helps you feel your best, every day.
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Spring 2026
HIA VICTORIA EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Keith Ryan said the association’s membership includes companies like Simonds Homes and Southern Vale Homes, as well as renovators, kitchen and bathroom builders, and suppliers of products and services. When choosing a builder, Keith said the most critical step was verifying registration. “There are some businesses out there who pretend to be builders, particularly in the renovation space, and they are actually not registered or licensed,” he said. “There have been in recent years a few builders out there who create the impression it is their licence, but then borrow or lend someone else’s licence number, and they can be quite dangerous.” Prospective homeowners should also confirm their builder, in Victoria, has access to the First-resort Home Warranty Scheme, which must be provided when a contract is signed. In Victoria, you can check registration and licensing details through the Building and Plumbing Commission at bpc.vic. gov.au. In NSW, the equivalent body is the Building Commission NSW at nsw. gov.au/departments-and-agencies/ building-commission.
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A ME LENAT BedSSM FrameE
Forty Winks Echuca
Echuca Homemaker Centre 161-189 Oglivie Avenue T: (03) 5482 4522 fortywinks.com.au
Cut energy bills with Electric Saul AUSTRALIAN HOUSEHOLDS CAN NOW ACCESS FREE, PERSONALISED ADVICE ON CUTTING ENERGY BILLS AND ELECTRIFYING THEIR HOMES WITH THE LAUNCH OF ELECTRIC SAUL, A NEW AI TOOL CREATED BY REWIRING AUSTRALIA IN PARTNERSHIP WITH GOOGLE. THE TOOL DRAWS ON the expertise of Australian engineer and electrification advocate Dr Saul Griffith, providing households with tailored guidance based on their home, whether they rent or own, their car, location, appliances and goals. Users can ask questions about solar, batteries, hot water, heating, cooking, electric vehicles and home upgrades, and build a practical plan to use when speaking with installers or tradies. Saul said the tool was launching as global energy shocks pushed household electrification into the mainstream. “The crisis in the Strait of Hormuz has no end in sight and Australians are feeling it deeply,” he said. “Our current energy system is fragile, imported, and households have very little control over it. “The way forward is sitting on our roofs, in our garages and in the appliances we choose when the old ones break. “But the next question is always the same: where do I start? “That is why we built Electric Saul. “We can now give people who live anywhere
in Australia the same kind of plain-English advice about electrification I give my neighbours.” Rewiring Australia chief executive officer Francis Vierboom said the partnership helped bring trusted advice to households. “Going electric saves households money, but the decisions can be expensive and confusing,” Francis said. “Electric Saul helps people get it right the first time by putting Saul’s expertise at their fingertips.” Electric Saul was developed with funding and support from Google’s Digital Future Initiative. To get started, visit electricsaul.com
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Spring 2026
• Heating Servicing & Repairs
COOLING • Reverse Cycle Split Systems
QUALIFIED & EXPERIENCES TECHNICIANS
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HEATING • Wood Heaters
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For a better night’s sleep FORTY WINKS ECHUCA IS A THIRD-GENERATION FAMILY BUSINESS THAT HAS BEEN SERVING THE LOCAL COMMUNITY FOR 38 YEARS.
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Spring 2026
FORTY WINKS ECHUCA MANAGER Jack Keogh said the store stocks one of the biggest ranges of bedroom furniture, manchester and accessories in country Victoria. “If we don’t have what you’re after on our floor we have access to many different options from our different supplier partners,” he said. For those chasing on-trend looks, Jack said light natural timbers are popular right now, but darker, moodier tones are making a comeback. Storage and functionality, including lighting and charging ports, are also increasingly sought after. “It’s a big option for people looking for a bed, to offer more than just somewhere to sleep,” he said. For a more timeless aesthetic, Jack recommends considering Australian-made upholstery options. “We have hundreds of different Warwick fabrics to upholster your new bedhead or base in,” he said. One of the store’s standout offerings is the Valentine range. “The Valentine is a game-changer for our customers,” Jack said. “It has three different bedheads to choose from, as well as three different bases, which is great for people who want functionality, storage and style.” The Valentine range will soon be expanded to four different bedheads and bases. Forty Winks Echuca also uses a tool called BedMatch to help customers find the right mattress. “After laying on our BedMatch test mattresses for three minutes, the machine will find the correct support that your body needs to get a restful night’s sleep,” Jack said. “It does that by doing 1000 scientific calculations across 18 key body measurements including your height, the width of your shoulders, hips and waist.” For couples with differing sleep needs, the store’s exclusive MySide range allows each person on a mattress to have the correct support they require. Jack said good sleep was fundamental to overall health. “Among other things, getting enough sleep helps support healthy immune, hormonal, cardiovascular and metabolic functions,” he said. “It’s safe to say sleep is a key factor in living the happy, healthy life we all deserve. “Come in and one of our friendly sleep advisors will be happy to answer any of your questions and have you sleeping better.” Forty Winks Echuca is located at 161–189 Ogilvie Ave, Echuca. Phone (03) 5482 4522 or email echuca@fortywinks.com.au.
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Forty Winks Echuca, a third-generation family business, has been serving the community for 38 years, with manager Jack Keogh leading a team of sleep specialists.
COMING SOON
First Display Home in Yallarah, Echuca. Call 03 5891 1022 or visit our Shepparton office: 120 Wyndham Street. Echuca office open by appointment only: 208 Maude Street. CSH Homes Pty Ltd, CDB-U 64812, CDBU-348687c. Trading as G.J. Gardner Homes Shepparton.
G.J. Gardner Homes Shep unveil new Echuca display G.J. GARDNER HOMES SHEPPARTON FRANCHISE OWNERS CHRIS AND SHARRI LONGMORE ARE BUILDING A NEW DISPLAY HOME AT YALLARAH, ECHUCA, WITH A GRAND OPENING PLANNED FOR NOVEMBER 2026.
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Spring 2026
“WE’RE REALLY EXCITED ABOUT this one,” said Chris and Sharri, who opened their franchise in 2020. “It's packed with beautiful finishes, thoughtful details and a design that has been carefully considered around lifestyle and the way people actually live.” The couple say their point of difference lies in personalised service and flexible design. “We offer flexible designs, quality finishes and the freedom to customise your home around the way you and your family actually live,” they said. “We want to create a home that works for you now, while also considering how your family and lifestyle may change in the years to come.” The business employs its own carpenters, supported by a network of local trades from across the Goulburn Valley. “It means we know who is working on our homes and, importantly, the standard of workmanship we expect,” the Longmores said. “Our office team is also very close-knit, everyone has their own role to play, but there’s a really strong team mentality across the whole business.” The process begins with getting to know the client. “We conduct discovery meetings with our clients, along with a site meeting with your sales consultant, so we can understand the full picture, your block, wish list, budget and, most importantly, how you and your family live,” they said. “Any of our plans can be customised to suit your needs, so you’re not locked into a standard layout.” As a general guide, clients should allow around 12 months from breaking ground to moving in, though the Longmores note that timeframes vary. “Every build is different, so we'll talk you through the expected timeframe for your particular home and keep you updated throughout the journey,” they said. The team has completed a number of builds in the Echuca area they are proud of. “We've been lucky enough to build some beautiful homes throughout the Echuca area, including homes in Serenade Ave, Falcon Rise and Lignum Rd, as well as a stunning two-storey home overlooking Rich River
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Golf Course,” the Longmores said. “Some may even still have their Proudly Built by G.J. Gardner Homes Shepparton signage out the front, so keep your eyes peeled when you're out and about.” While the Echuca display home is being completed, the Longmores encourage prospective clients to visit their existing display homes. “Our display homes in Lorikeet St, Kialla are open seven days a week,” they said. “Pop in, have a look around and say hello to our lovely new homes consultants, Brooke, Shelley, Dave and Stuart.” To find out more about building with G.J. Gardner Homes Shepparton, go to gjgardner. com.au and search Shepparton
parton to home
YOUR HOME DECORATING SPECIALIST Knights-Kyabram
by Knights
We have the latest trends in carpet, timber, bamboo, laminate and luxury vinyl flooring. Call in and see our showroom full of samples or ring for a home visit and free measure and quote.
Furnish your home in style with a range of quality furniture at affordable prices. www.homemakersfurniture.com.au
www.choicesflooring.com.au Our Home
We offer an extensive range of curtains, blinds, shutters and outside awnings. Call now for home decorating advice and for a free measure and quote service. Also in store we have a large range of home giftware and quality manchester.
Bedroom furniture and a large range of mattresses at competitive prices. It’s easy as 1,2,3 with Sleepfit FIRM, MEDIUM, PLUSH. www.sleepzonebedding.com.au
Spring 2026
67 UNION STREET, KYABRAM | Ph: 5852 2388 25
Roof protection saves money GEN3 ROOFING PTY LTD SPECIALISES IN THE CARE AND CONSTRUCTION OF TILED ROOFS, WHILE ALSO OFFERING LIMITED SERVICES FOR IRON ROOFING, INCLUDING WASHING, PAINTING, GUTTER CLEANING AND INSTALLING WHIRLYBIRD VENTS. DIRECTOR AND SITE OPERATOR Nick Holland said the Echuca-based business carries a proud family legacy. “Gen3 Roofing has been operating for over four years and carries my family’s legacy going back three generations,” he said. Nick began his roofing career young, starting out at just 12 years of age during school holidays at his parents’ roofing business. “Hearing stories of my grandfather and watching my dad and older brothers growing up has been a big influence on me personally,” he said. The business places strong emphasis on educating homeowners about roof maintenance, with Nick noting a common gap in community awareness around the value of regular inspections. “Our mission has always been to provide quality workmanship and to ensure our clients’ investment is valued and protected from costly preventable repairs,” he said. “By investing in minimal repairs more often, the more our clients save and avoid
other damages to their home, like to ceilings and roof structures from leaks. “It’s not so much about making your roof look good, but more about protecting the life of your roof, and having it look good is a bonus.” REGULAR INSPECTION FOR A TILED ROOF INCLUDES CHECKING: • Checking if there is solid mortar holding the ridge caps in place, and that it’s not cracking or crumbling. • The flexi pointing top layer on the mortar is smooth, cohesive and isn’t peeling away. • Amount of build-up of debris and moss in valleys, gutters and on tiles, and checking it’s obstruction to water flow from highest point of roof to gutter. • Looking for any tiles or ridgecaps that may be broken by other trades, weather events or age. • Flashings and valleys are sealed and water tight.
Nick also challenges the perception that tiled roofs are more costly to maintain than iron roofs over time. “A regularly inspected and maintained tiled roof will actually reduce the amount of money being spent over the lifetime of the roof,” he said. “Iron roofs themselves are not immune to leaking, wear and tear, and require regular maintenance, including replacement of washers, flashings and valleys, and washing and painting.” For a free assessment and quote to make your roof look good, call Gen 3 Roofing on 0455 718 995.
Reliable and Affordable Roofing Solutions Available in Echuca & Surrounds Our highly experienced team members are more than ready to tackle any roofing project, big and small. From basic repairs and maintenance to advanced restoration and expansive re-roofing, we can handle it all, while still adhering to your budget.
Great Customer Service We will happily go above and beyond to meet your project’s needs and deliver satisfying results.
Recognised by the Industry We are an industry recognised business that takes great pride in offering our first-rate roofing services to esteemed clients.
Competitive Price We always strive to complete our work in a safe, timely, and efficient manner, while also keeping your budget in mind.
Advanced Maintenance, Repairs & Restorations
Our Home
Spring 2026
• Basic maintenance • Fixing existing leaks • Supplying and installing modern valley storm seals • Removal and replacement of mortar (Re-bedding)
• Applying fresh coating of flexible sealant (Pointing) • Pressure cleaning (rated for level of debris presence & required treatment)
Please note that all paint works require pressure cleaning in preparation. We will apply one coat of primer and then two coats of colour. We can supply Colorbond® colours.
Award-winning local company specialising in both gutter cleaning and roofing services 26
Transform lawn with Coolabah Turf COOLABAH TURF IS YOUR LOCAL INSTANT TURF GROWER AND SUPPLIER FOR RESIDENTIAL HOMES AND BACKYARDS WITH A RANGE OF VARIETIES SUITED TO DIFFERENT CONDITIONS AND LIFESTYLES. OPTIONS ARE AVAILABLE FOR everything from busy family lawns with kids and pets to shaded yards, sunny high-traffic areas and premium feature lawns. Coolabah Turf general manager — farms Dave Geltch said there wasn’t one turf variety that is best for every Echuca-Moama backyard “It depends on the amount of sun and shade, how the lawn will be used and how much maintenance you’re comfortable with,” he said. “All of our turf is grown right here in Echuca,
providing our local community with premium, drought-tolerant, self-repairing lawn varieties backed by a 10-year warranty.” Sir Walter DNA Certified Buffalo is the most popular residential choice, particularly for shaded yards,
˄ General manager — farms Dave Geltch highlights the importance of choosing turf based on sun exposure, lawn usage, and maintenance preferences.
Coolabah Turf is an award-winning grower and supplier of premium instant turf and Lawns for Life. Our team is committed to helping you always have the BEST looking lawn in the street. For an affordable instant lawn landscape solution request a quote today. Visit coolturf.com.au or call our team of turf professionals.
Our Home Spring 2026
1800 055 515 | coolturf.com.au
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while TifTuf Bermuda and Eureka Premium VG Kikuyu suit sunny, high-traffic areas. For dog owners, he recommends TifTuf Bermuda. “Its dense growth and excellent wear tolerance make it tough enough to handle regular zoomies, while its fast recovery helps the lawn bounce back from heavy use,” he said. Preparation is key before laying turf. Dave advises removing existing grass, weeds, rocks and debris, then cultivating and levelling the soil. “We recommend at least 100mm of quality sandy loam available from your local sand and soil supplier,” he said. “Aim to have the finished soil level about 30-40mm below paths, paving and other hard surfaces to allow for the thickness of the turf.” All Coolabah Turf orders include starter fertiliser, spread across the surface before laying. When laying turf, Dave said to start along a straight edge and stagger joins in a brickwork pattern. “Use a sharp knife or spade to trim the turf neatly around garden beds, trees and other obstacles,” he said. A thorough watering immediately after installation is essential, with the turf and soil kept consistently moist during establishment. Foot traffic should be kept to a minimum for the first two to three weeks. “You can check by gently trying to lift a corner of the turf,” Dave said. “If it resists and feels firmly anchored to the soil, it’s generally ready for normal use.” Coolabah Turf has supplied turf for notable local
projects including the AFL-spec oval at St Joseph’s College Echuca’s Kildare Campus, Journey Early Learning Echuca West, Bright Waves Swim School on the Murray Valley Hwy, Moama Waters Holiday Park, and community spaces such as the Echuca Boat Ramp and Moama Beach. “Community is a big part of who we are at Coolabah Turf,” Dave said. “We want to help create outdoor spaces that are made to be lived on and enjoyed.” Residents can make inquiries or place orders by visiting coolabahturf.com.au or by calling the team directly on 1800 055 515.
Carpet • Vinyl Planks • Sheet Vinyl Spring 2026
Residential & Commercial Flooring
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FREE IN-HOME MEASURE & QUOTE 28
0499 162 924 gotyoucoveredflooringcentre.com 70 McEwen Rd, Kyabram
˄ Coolabah Turf is a local instant turf grower and supplier in EchucaMoama. According to Coolabah Turf general manager — farms Dave Geltch have a range of turf varieties for different conditions and lifestyles
Palette trends to create new looks DULUX HAS UNVEILED ITS COLOUR FORECAST FOR 2027, EXPLORING THE COLOURS SET TO SHAPE AUSTRALIAN HOMES THROUGH THREE DISTINCT PALETTES, PLAY, TREASURE AND SENSORY.
Dulux has revealed its 2027 colour forecast featuring three palettes. The Play palette offers vibrant energy with pastel shades like lilac, blue, and green, complemented by zesty orange and berry accents.
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The Treasure palette embraces restrained maximalism with deep blues, lush crimsons and berry shades.
Spring 2026
CURATED BY DULUX COLOUR and design manager Lauren Treloar and colour marketing lead Lilybet Holt, the annual forecast draws on calming blues, comforting botanical tones and sophisticated jewel-like shades. Each palette reflects a craving for authenticity, meaningful connections and the celebration of spontaneous moments. “The palettes reflect an urgent desire to create spaces that feel more personal, expressive and deeply human,” Lauren said. “Across each of the three palettes there is a return to softened yellow-greens and blues with grey and purple undertones that captivate our collective longing for grounding. “Simultaneously, bright berry and cherry accents serve as markers of personality and optimism, injected sparingly across spaces.” The Play palette infuses interiors with vibrant energy, capturing the essence of analogue interaction and the charm of imperfect everyday moments. Packed with soft pastels, Dulux Play is a colourful collection of muted lilacs such as Dulux Stately Frills, calming blues like Dulux Powder Blue Half, spearmint greens including Dulux Catnap, and zesty orange and berry accents like Dulux Temptress and Dulux Baca Berry. The Treasure palette moves away from stark minimalism towards restrained maximalism, using rich tonal layering and classical influences. This palette enlivens spaces with deep blues like Dulux Precision and Dulux Madonna, lush crimsons such as Dulux Raspberry Fool, and berry shades like Dulux Rich Red Violet. The Sensory palette is a tribute to mindful living, interwoven with Japanese influences and conscious craftsmanship. The palette encompasses natural tones with layered greens such as Dulux Field Maple and Dulux Moorland, warm neutrals like Dulux Buttercookie and Dulux Humble Fawn, and near-black browns including Dulux Dark Cocoa and Dulux Sweet Chocolate. To make sure you get the colours just right, you can order Dulux A4 samples or sample pots from dulux. com.au in your chosen colour(s) and see how they look in your home’s natural lighting. Dulux also has an online colour advice team and a Colour Design service if you would like a design professional to help curate your space.
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The Sahara 4 Bed Powder Rm
2 Living
2 Bath
Double Garage
Three New Display Homes Now Open! 78 Yakoa Natya Ave, Echuca Open 7 days, 12pm - 5pm
Personalise our designs until it feels like home...
Every Southern Vale home begins as a thoughtful design and ends as something entirely yours. Step through The Elite, The Belmont and The Sahara and discover how our team work with you to personalise each floorplan, finish and façade to suit the way you actually live — because a home should enrich your life and feel truly yours.
SVA PTY LTD T/AS SOUTHERN VALE HOMES. ABN: 89 150 500 557. VIC LICENCE: CDB-U 52000 NSW LICENCE: 259700C
The Belmont 4 Bed Study
2 Living
The Elite 2 Bath
4 Bed
Media Rm
Double Garage
Study
Double Garage
Kids Retreat Workshop
Vanessa Brewis
Bruno Catanzariti
NEW HOME CONSULTANT
NEW HOME CONSULTANT
0438 492 477 vbrewis@southernvale.com.au
0418 597 329 bcatanzariti@southernvale.com.au
WWW.SOUTHERNVALE.COM.AU
|
1300 888 003
Building homes and conn SOUTHERN VALE HOMES MANAGING DIRECTOR JOHN FISHER HAS BUILT ON A DIVERSE CAREER IN CONSTRUCTION AND LEADERSHIP TO LEAD ONE OF THE REGION’S MOST ESTABLISHED HOME BUILDERS.
Our Home
Spring 2026
THE COMPANY, WHICH HAS been operating for 32 years, builds across Albury-Wodonga, Wangaratta, Yarrawonga, Shepparton, Echuca, Bendigo and surrounding regions. Southern Vale Homes managing director John Fisher has built on a diverse career in construction and leadership to lead one of the region’s most established home builders. After completing a trade, John went on to earn a graduate diploma at Ballarat University and worked as a national construction manager. In 2014, he and his wife Blaise built their third
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family home with SVH, an experience that set him on a new course, wanting to provide the home building experience they had to others. John joined SVH as construction manager before becoming general manager and eventually taking ownership. He and Blaise credit their team as central to the company’s future. “For us, it’s about creating connections between,” he said. “With our team, with our clients and with the communities we build in.”
ections Southern Vale Homes, The Elite 37, showcases a more spacious and sophisticated style of living
Our Home Spring 2026
Southern Vale Homes owners Blaise and John Fisher
John said it was ultimately a combination of future potential and genuine community connection that made Echuca the right choice. “The decision to open in Echuca was driven by both regional growth and personal ties to the area,” he said. “We see significant opportunity in regional communities like Echuca, where there is continued growth and a strong demand for quality homes and local building services. “On a personal level, Echuca also holds a special place for our family; we have strong family connections to the area and many great memories through sport, so it felt like a natural fit.” Three display homes are planned for Yakoa Natya Ave in Yallarah Estate’s Display Village, with all three expected to be available for inspection in October 2026. The homes showcase different designs from the SVH range. “The Elite 37 is one of our standout family designs, showcasing a more spacious and sophisticated style of living,” John said. “It has been designed with open-plan family living in mind, with a strong focus on creating spaces that are both impressive and practical.” The Belmont 30 is a spacious 30-square home featuring four bedrooms, two bathrooms, two living areas, a double garage and a generous alfresco area. The third display home, the Sahara 24, is a newer addition to the range. “It reflects the direction we're continuing to take with our designs, creating homes that are contemporary, functional and suited to the way families want to live today,” John said. Together, the three designs demonstrate the breadth of what SVH offers, from larger family homes to smarter, more compact living. John is clear that SVH’s point of difference lies in its approach to livability and personalisation. “We have a range of thoughtfully designed homes to provide a great starting point, but we don’t believe you should have to fit your life into a floor plan,” he said. The company works with clients to adjust designs to suit their block, lifestyle and family needs. “Your house is more than just bricks and mortar, it's about building a home that will enrich your life. On the subject of quality, John said SVH worked with trusted suppliers, including quality Australian-grown timber and reliable building products and fixtures. “For us, quality isn’t simply about ticking off a list of inclusions,” he said. “It’s about giving our clients choice and making sure the details of their home reflect the way they want to live. “We don’t want our clients to feel like they’re just another build number. “We want them to feel like they're part of the Southern Vale family.” Southern Vale Homes’ office is at 224 Hare St, Echuca, phone 1300 888 003. To find a beautiful new home for you and your family, visit southernvale.com.au
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Turning plans into gardens
CRAIG AND KATE TURNER STARTED THE GARDEN PLANNERS IN ECHUCA ALMOST A DECADE AGO, BORN OUT OF FRUSTRATION WITH THE LACK OF QUALITY ADVICE AVAILABLE TO HOME GARDENERS.
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Spring 2026
“KATE AND I STARTED The Garden Planners in Echuca nearly 10 years ago,” The Garden Planners and Echuca Plant Farm Nursery owner and landscape designer Craig Turner said. “The reason we started was we found that gone are the days when you could just walk into any nursery and get the right advice, or speak to landscapers about what you want, where, and how the plants grow.” The business grew rapidly from humble beginnings. “We went from doing it out of our little house, went from doing a few garden designs a week to doing 750 garden designs in a year,” Craig said. The business now completes over 1000 garden designs a year across Victoria and into Queensland. Craig is passionate about the value of proper planning before breaking ground. “You would never build a house without a plan, and while people would start to do a garden, which is still a large investment, like a typical front and backyard of a new build house could be anywhere from $30,000 to $80,000, depending on what is involved,” he said. “If you get a plan done, when you go and get quotes, you are getting quotes based on all the same information.”
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Without a plan, Craig warns, homeowners are left vulnerable. “If you don’t do that, you will get a landscaper come around,” he said. “But the next bloke would come along and say, I’ll do it 1000 bucks cheaper, but what are they really getting for that? They don’t know.” A full landscape plan removes the guesswork. “Having a full landscape plan will tell you exactly how much soil, how much mulch, what the right plant is, what the right quantity of plants are,” Craig said. “So, when you get your garden built, it is exactly what you envisaged.” The Garden Planners also offers a $100 planting plan service for existing homeowners. “The customer comes in with a mud map of their garden beds, where they want them, and they get to sit down with our landscape designer, Amy, for about an hour,” Craig said. “If that customer then spends over $600, we give them $100 off the plants, so that is basically the planting plan fee.” The business owns nurseries in Echuca and Shepparton and operates an 8 hectare plant farm where plants are grown specifically for the local climate. “Echuca is brutal; it’s minus five in winter to 45°C in summer, that is a 50-degree variance,” Craig said. “If you are buying plants from outside our climate and then asking those plants to survive, that is a really, really tough gig.” For those unable to visit in person, The Garden Planners offers an online design service, using satellite and drone technology to assess properties remotely, a point of difference that has helped the business reach clients well beyond the Murray region.
˄ Craig (pictured) and Kate Turner founded The Garden Planners in Echuca almost a decade ago due to the lack of quality gardening advice available to home gardeners.
The business owns nurseries in Echuca and Shepparton, operates a 8 hectare plant farm, and offers online design services using satellite and drone technology for remote assessments. ˄ The business has grown significantly, now completing over 1000 garden designs annually across Victoria and into Queensland.
Craig also encourages clients to consider doing some of the work themselves. “If you plant a tree, you will probably make sure that it survives because you know how hard it was to plant it,” he said. “If you just pay someone to do it, then you’re probably just going to walk past it and not pay too much attention. “But I know every single tree that I’ve ever planted, I’m always checking after it as if it were one of my own children. “One of the reasons we started Echuca and Shepparton Plant Farm was that we found it was extremely
important to be able not only to show people how to garden, but also then provide the success of gardening.” The Garden Planners are members of the Landscape Design Institute and have completed more than 1500 successful council submissions across Victoria and the local region. The Echuca Plant Farm Nursery is located at 13-15 Northern Hwy, Echuca. The nursery is open weekdays from 9am to 5pm and weekends from 9am to 4pm. Contact the business on 1300 599 988 or visit thegardenplanners.com.au
Echuca’s largest
tree and plant nursery Echuca Moama Plant Farm offer a huge range of plants from our plant nursery in Echuca and offer expert advise to select the right plants for your garden. Monday – Friday — 9am – 5pm Saturday and Sunday — 9am – 4pm Public Holidays — 9am – 4pm Echuca — 13 – 15 Northern Hwy, Echuca Shepparton — 535 Archer Rd, Kialla
1300 599 988 SHOP ONLINE echucamoama plantfarm.com.au
LOCAL DELIVERY AVAILABLE Our Home Spring 2026 35
Stress-free property deals BUYING OR SELLING A PROPERTY IS EXCITING, BUT IT CAN ALSO BE STRESSFUL. THAT’S WHERE THE EXPERIENCED property team at Morrison & Sawers Lawyers steps in. With offices in Benalla, Echuca, Kyabram and Shepparton, the firm delivers property and conveyancing services across regional Victoria and NSW. Led by director and lawyer Brooke Dedini, the team includes lawyers Madi Fitzgerald, Rebecca Jones, Sheree Jorgensen and Jaime Rodrick, along with conveyancing clerks Penny Newman, with over 40 years of legal experience, Maddy Threlfall, and Susan Masters. Together, they bring decades of combined experience in property law. “All of our team members live locally and understand the property issues that arise in our communities,” Ms Dedini said. Whether you’re buying your first home, selling an investment property, or dealing with a complex farming property with water shares or entitlements, Morrison & Sawers is equipped to ensure the matter runs smoothly.
When you engage Morrison & Sawers for your property transaction, the team works behind-the-scenes to keep everything on track and to protect your interests. THIS INVOLVES: • Making sure the contract and property certificates reflect what you believe you’re buying or selling, and raising any issues that need to be negotiated or investigated. • Explaining your rights and obligations in plain language, so you know exactly what you are signing and what to expect. • Working with your bank (if needed) to ensure your finance is in order and ready for settlement. • Preparing and lodging transfer documents and ensuring rates and outgoings are adjusted fairly at settlement. • Applying for any stamp duty concessions or exemptions you’re entitled to. • Arranging settlement and notifying authorities of the change in ownership. Morrison & Sawers offers a smoother,
less stressful experience and peace of mind knowing your property transaction is being handled with care. Morrison & Sawers maintains four regional offices: Echuca, 126 Hare St, (03) 5482 2222 Kyabram, 157 Fenaughty St, (03) 5852 2555 Shepparton, 28 Welsford St, (03) 5831 8885 Benalla, 18 Bridge St East, (03) 5762 2250
RELIABLE CONVEYANCING BACKED BY EXPERIENCE
Spring 2026
Making property transactions feel personal
CALL FOR AN APPOINTMENT TODAY
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157 FENAUGHTY ST, KYABRAM PH: 5852 2555 | 126 HARE ST, ECHUCA PH: 5482 2222 28 WELSFORD ST, SHEPPARTON PH: 5831 8885 | 18 BRIDGE STREET EAST, BENALLA PH: 5762 2250 morrison.sawers@morsaw.com.au | www.morsaw.com.au 36
Cook fast or slow: you choose KAREN MARTINI, ONE OF AUSTRALIA’S MOST RECOGNISED CHEFS, IS SET TO RELEASE TWO NEW COOKBOOKS ON OCTOBER 1, 2026: COOK FAST AND COOK SLOW. KAREN’S CAREER SPANS TWO-HATTED restaurants, bestselling cookbooks, and a long-standing role as resident chef on Better Homes and Gardens. She has led kitchens at Melbourne Wine Room and Sydney’s Icebergs Dining Room and is a regular columnist. The two titles are the latest additions to her Cook series, which now counts eight books. Cook Fast features more than 80 recipes for busy cooks, including Fried Halloumi with Vine Leaves, Pistachios, Za’atar and
Pomegranate Molasses, and Moorish Chicken Skewers with Orange and Black Olive Salsa. The book shows that speed does not mean sacrificing flavour. Perfect for home cooks who want flavourful, fuss-free meals, Cook Fast will revolutionise the way you cook when time is short. Cook Slow takes the opposite approach, celebrating unhurried cooking with more than 80 slow-cooked recipes. Highlights include Asian Brisket with Vinegared Blood Plums and Persian Roast Chicken on Buttered Rice with Quince and Bay. Whether you’re slow-roasting, simmering, or braising, Karen’s expert guidance ensures rich, flavour-packed results, making Cook Slow the perfect companion for those who love to cook with care and eat with joy. The Karen Martini’s Cook series is published by Hardie Grant Books and available through all good bookshops and stockists.
Karen Martini
BUILDING OR RENOVATING? CREATE YOUR PERFECT LIGHTING PLAN
Book your consultation today. Whether you’re building a new home or renovating, our lighting specialists can help you: Choose the right lighting for every room Create thoughtfully layered lighting Avoid costly lighting mistakes Stay within budget Select the perfect fans and lighting fixtures
sales@roundaboutlighting.com.au www.roundaboutlighting.com.au
Spring 2026
03 5480 2238
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169 Pakenham Street Echuca
Scan to book me or learn more
VISIT OUR SHOWROOM WITH YOUR PLANS ON-SITE CONSULTATIONS AVAILABLE* DETAILED QUOTATION PROVIDED
*On-site consultations available within our service area.
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Ultimate triple crispiness awaits JACI HICKEN, OUR SEASONED JOURNALIST AND TRAINED CHEF, SHARES HER KNOWLEDGE OF GROWING, COOKING, AND PRESERVING HOMEGROWN PRODUCE. FOR OUR HOME, JACI SHARES A STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE ON MAKING THE BEST AND CRISPIEST POTATO CHIPS; THE ONLY THING IS IT MIGHT TAKE YOU THREE DAYS. ONE THING I REMEMBER from chef school was that the chips you get from your local Fish n Chips shop should be triple-cooked. Frozen chips are normally pre-cooked before they are snapped frozen, the first cook. The second cook is to blanch the chips in a deep fryer set at 150℃. The third cook is to deep fry the chips until golden brown and very crispy at 190℃. At home, this may take you up to three days to create the best triple-cooked, extra-crispy chips possible. We all want to know: What is the best potato to make chips at home? The answer is simple: The normal unwashed potatoes you buy at any supermarket. They’re likely starchy, floury Sebago potatoes that will crisp up a treat.
TRIPLE-COOKED CHIPS RECIPE
Spring 2026
INGREDIENTS • 1kg potatoes. • Vegetable oil for deep frying • Salt
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METHOD STEP 1 Peel your potatoes and wash very well And I mean very well, as mine come direct from the farm with a little of the famous red local dirt still on them.
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STEP 2 Cut your potatoes into large chips by hand. Place the potato chips in a large saucepan of cold water with a little cooking salt, and bring to the boil. Reduce the heat to medium and simmer until the potatoes are cooked through and very soft. STEP 3 Drain your potatoes very gently, as they will be so soft they may fall apart. Line a tray with a clean tea towel and place the potato chips on the tray, ensuring they don’t touch. Place your tray of potato chips in the freezer overnight. STEP 4 The next day, heat the oil in your deep fryer to 150℃. Slowly and carefully place the chips in the deep fryer and fry until a light golden colour and cooked through. Drain your potatoes well, and once cool enough to handle, place back on the tea towel-lined tray, not touching and return to the freezer. They will need to be in the freezer for at least two hours, but overnight would be ideal. STEP 5 On day three, heat the oil in your deep fryer to 190℃. Slowly and carefully place the chips in the deep fryer and fry until deep golden-brown and extra crispy. Drain well and season with salt.
Quality, award-winning sheds A ROCHESTER-BASED SHED BUILDER IS HELPING LOCALS CREATE CUSTOM OUTDOOR SPACES, BACKED BY AUSTRALIAN-MADE MATERIALS AND PROFESSIONAL EXPERTISE. FAIR DINKIM BUILDS — REM Sheds, established in 2016, serves as the Fair Dinkum Builds distributor across Rochester, Echuca, Moama and neighbouring areas from its Lowry St premises. Owner-manager Leisa Evans emphasises their commitment to quality Australian products and personalised service. “You don’t have to know exactly what you want, just what you want to get out of your shed; we can assist with the rest,” Leisa said. This commitment to quality Australian products and personalised service was recently highlighted at the Fair Dinkum Builds national conference held in Brisbane in August 2026, with the company winning the 2026 Victorian sales growth award and being nominated for the national franchise of the year award
Owner-manager Leisa Evans highlights the company’s focus on quality Australian products and personalised service.
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Fair Dinkum Builds — REM Sheds in Rochester offers custom outdoor spaces using Australian-made materials and expert guidance.
Spring 2026
LEISA’S ADVICE ON DETERMINING THE BEST SHED FOR YOU IS TO THINK ABOUT A FEW THINGS INCLUDING: • What do you want to put in your shed? • What height and width clearances do you need for what you want to use the shed for? Does it need to fit multiple cars, maybe a boat? • You don’t have to know precisely what you want, just what you want to get out of your shed. Fair Dinkum Builds — REM Sheds can assist with the rest. • Do you have any restrictions on your property, including caveats, easements and space requirements? Fair Dinkum Builds — REM Sheds will check and work through this as part of the permit process. The company, a Registered Building Practitioner, handles all construction aspects comprehensively. “We organise the building permits, site plans, concreting and the erection of your shed,” Leisa said. “Once we take on a project, pretty much all you need to worry about is paying for the project and signing a few documents.” Fair Dinkum Builds – REM Sheds provides both supply-only kits and complete installation services. Every structure meets Australian standards with Shed Safe Accreditation, and clients can choose from the full Colorbond colour range to match existing buildings. Fair Dinkum Builds — REM Sheds services Rochester, Echuca, Moama, Kyabram, Lockington, Gunbower, and surrounding regions, and welcomes customers from any area it is practical to go to. Prospective clients can design their sheds through the Fair Dinkum Builds app or website before arranging measurements and quotes. For inquiries, contact Fair Dinkum Builds – REM Sheds on 5484 3347 or email info@remsheds.com.au. Visit the Fair Dinkum Builds website at fairdinkumbuilds.com.au/rem-sheds
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BUILT TO STANDARD. BUILT FAIR DINKUM.
03 5484 3347 • info@remsheds.com.au fairdinkumbuilds.com.au/rem-sheds