Ovens and Murray Advertiser 190523

BENAMBRA MP Bill Tilley has called on Victorian Roads Minister, Melissa Horne, to place a timeframe on ongoing repairs to damaged sections of Beechworth-Wodonga Road.

Prior to Easter, a detour was established around a

failed culvert near Wooragee, with a 60kph detour implemented while Regional Roads Victoria (RRV) undertook assessments of the major roadway. A second damaged culvert, near Star Lane, reduced traffic to one lane controlled by lights,

and with more than six weeks passing in the wake of damage, Mr Tilley said it was vital the State Government communicated how the works were progressing.

“I get that sometimes this is tricky, that there are other considerations, but

tell us what’s happening and when it will happen,” he said.

“We have social media commentators saying it will take 18 months in the absence of any meaningful feedback from RRV – if that’s right, it doesn’t pass the pub test, we need some

clarity and transparency.

“The detour is a major issue for those travelling to work, school, doctors or simply doing their shopping – people contacting my office say the detour is a potential death trap.”

■ Continued page 2

HELPING HANDS: St Joseph’s Primary’s Year 6 student Olivia (left) with students Joanna (Year 5), Cleaver (Year 6) and Oliver (Year) 6 watered Quercus community gardens after Monday’s high tea celebrating National Volunteer Week. Story page 5.

PHOTO: Coral Cooksley.

Supporting families of children with cancer

FAMILIES of children with cancer will benefit from the appointment of an Albury–based nurse dedicated to making their journey a little easier.

Joanna Owen is the region‘s first Paediatric Cancer Care Coordinator based at Albury Hospital and the Albury Wodonga Regional Cancer Centre.

The role, made possible through a $330,000 commitment from the Albury Wodonga Regional Cancer Centre Trust Fund, will help coordinate paediatric cancer care close to home where safe to do so.

Mrs Owen has more than 25 years of paediatric nursing experience and hopes to help keep more families connected while children undergo cancer treatment.

“I‘m hoping they get to have more care near home, they get to stay home for longer periods and they feel supported and safe when they‘re here,” she said.

“It‘s also about facilitating them back to school and back to their normal life, while still having the very best opportunity and outcome.”

Mrs Owen said it was “always her dream” to work with children with cancer.

After finishing school in Albury, Mrs Owen studied nursing in Sydney before securing a job in paediatric oncology at the Children‘s Hospital at Westmead.

She worked there for six years and after beginning a family of her own, moved back to the region to work in paediatrics at Albury Wodonga Health.

While paediatric cancer treatment is typically provided in Melbourne, Mrs Owen has worked with the Royal Children‘s Hospital and Monash Health to provide some shared care locally.

This includes maintenance chemotherapy and symptom management provided through the Albury children‘s ward.

The role of paediatric cancer care coordinator has been created with the support of two major donors –the SS&A Club Albury, and Danny and Caroline Phegan and family.

The SS&A club will provide $60,000 a year, and the Phegans $50,000 a year, as part of a three–year pledge.

Mrs Owen said the role would expand on the current shared program, and would assist families from right across the Albury Wodonga Health catchment, as well as those serviced by Northeast Health Wangaratta.

Closure concerns

■ From page 1

Mr Tilley said culvert failures had become systemic across the region in the past 12 months, pointing to the now-repaired Gooramadda Road gorge, traffic lights at Indigo Creek Road which remain following damage last November, and a detour and two separate culvert hazards impacting the Murray valley Highway near Tallangatta.

Speaking in parliament earlier this week, he said fixed needed to

meet modern standards.

“The 2022 rains highlighted the state of our roads, uncovered failed culverts that were made out of granite blocks, corrugated iron and other flotsam and jetsam,” he said.

“You can’t replace them “like for like,” they must be better, have greater capacity and be cleared more often.”

Ms Horne has four weeks to respond to the question in parliament.

“Recently we had a local paediatric cancer patient come in to the emergency department feeling increasingly unwell with some concerning symptoms,” she said.

“Having this role meant that I, liaising closely and

in real time with the treating team at Royal Children‘s Hospital and the local paediatric team, could help facilitate an urgent MRI here locally instead of the child and family having to travel to Melbourne.

“I think sometimes families feel like there‘s two separate worlds at play and when they‘re in Melbourne, they don‘t know how they can bring that world up here.

“I want to show them that they‘re safe and supported up here because there‘s a team of people who know what they‘re doing.

“We have that well established link with their teams in Melbourne and we can give them that standard of care here, in our region.”

Trust Fund board member, David Baker, welcomed Ms Owen‘s appointment as a boost for paediatric oncology services and supportive care in the region.

“It‘s a lot of stress and very disruptive for families when you‘ve got to travel to Melbourne for all of your treatment,” he said.

“To be able to have somebody like Joanna coordinate more treatment locally, including facilitating telehealth between our local specialists and specialists in Melbourne, and reducing some of the travel and difficulties with accommodation, will be invaluable.”

Inspiring literary minds

LOCAL book lovers and history enthusiasts will have the opportunity to meet acclaimed Australian author Dianne Wolfer next week, as part of an ongoing series of author talks at Beechworth Library.

The well–known literary figure, who rose to prominence with the success of “Lighthouse Girl,” “The Shark Caller,” and “Photographs in the Mud,” is set to provide an enlightening and thought–provoking talk while exploring themes of history, identity and belonging.

Having received extensive critical acclaim and awards for her published works, Ms Wolfer will take attendees through

her literary journey and dive deep into her creative process, allowing literacy lovers to immerse themselves in her passion for storytelling.

Commencing at 6.30pm on Thursday, May 25, the event will also see Ms Wolfer discuss her latest book, which is set in Beechworth and surrounding towns and promises rich storytelling and compelling characters true to the area.

Tickets for the event are free but limited, with attendees urged to visit www.indigoshire.vic.gov. au/community/libraries/ whats–on–at–our–libraries/author–talk–with–dianne–wolfer to reserve their seat.

are many ways you can give us a hand.

EXPERT SUPPORT LOCALLY: Pictured are Albury Wodonga Health Director of Paediatric Services, Dr Mark Norden, and Trust Fund board member, David Baker (at back), with donors Danny Phegan and SS&A CEO Gerard Darmody and paediatric cancer care coordinator Joanna Owen.

SET TO INSPIRE: Australian literary figure Dianne Wolfer will present at Beechworth Library next week.

TRAFFIC IMPACT: Benambra MP Bill Tilley has called for an updated timeframe for works along Beechworth-Wodonga Road.

Council endorses draft budget

By RYAN MALCOLM

INDIGO Shire councillors have endorsed a draft budget set to feature $17.6m in capital works funding, with rates and municipal charges proposed to rise by 3.5 per cent.

Mayor Sophie Price said the 2023/24 budget, which was formally endorsed and placed on public exhibition at Tuesday night’s regular council meeting , had posed a number of challenges in delivering a break even result, with council subject to considerable inflationary pressures.

Council’s $17.6m capital works budget is set to make it one of the shire’s largest ever, and includes $11.4m of new projects and $6.2m in carry forward funding.

Some $2.7m has been designated to maintain roads, bridges, footpaths and drains, $1.23m will be available to reseal priority rural roads and re-sheet

gravel roads, and $700,000 will be invested into improving the shire’s urban and rural drain network.

“In preparing this draft, we’ve had to balance current economic factors that are beyond our control, with ensuring that we are meeting the needs of our community, largely expressed through our prebudget community engagement,” Cr Price said.

“We had 315 responses to our pre-budget survey, with the feedback very similar to that received in 2022/23 with a strong focus on core service delivery.

“Overwhelmingly, respondents want council to focus its spending on maintaining and improving existing infrastructure such as roads, drains, footpaths and community buildings.”

An initial motion by deputy mayor Bernard Gaffney to also explore the viability of council purchasing portable CCTV cameras for de-

ployment throughout the shire in the wake of a recent crime wave was opposed by a four to three majority, with a lack of available funds a key concern.

Councillor Roberta Horne further opposed the draft budget, noting many in the region could be left disheartened by council’s continued tourism focus.

“The fires, the floods, the ‘COVIDisation’ of our economy has presented us with a whole new ballgame, and I believe we need to find a new pathway – I don’t believe we should be moving ahead with plans that predate the perfect storm which continues to batter us,” she said.

“I’m hearing loud and clear messaging that those who have built our communities and those who now call this place home want us to get the fundamentals, the roads, the drainage and the footpaths right.

“I doubt that those who

are thinking how the next fire season or flood may impact their families or perhaps how the ‘COVIDisation’ of our economy will continue to impede every facet of our social or civic lives – I doubt they’ll be pleased with this document.”

Cr Price said she was aware a rate rise of 3.5 per cent in line with a cap set by the State Government would impact some ratepayers more than others.

“Like all councils, we’re facing increasing costs that exceed our income –we’ve had two years of rising inflation, but the government-imposed rate cap has not kept pace with CPI (consumer price index), creating a widening gap between our revenue and costs,” she said.

“Many of our existing contracts, such as waste management are indexed to CPI, which is running at around 7.8 per cent – labour

and material costs are also rising in line with inflation, but our ability to raise additional income is severely restricted by the rate cap, which for 2023/24 has been set at 3.5 per cent.

“Taking all this into consideration, we believe this draft budget reflects strong prudent financial management that meets the targets

set out in our long-term financial plan ensuring our long-term financial sustainability.”

The draft budget and the council plan 2021-2025 year three review are each available for public exhibition at https://www.indigoshire. vic.gov.au/About-Council/ Council-Meetings/Agendasand-minutes.

Rolls Royce enthusiasts in Beechworth last week

By CORAL COOKSLEY

A CHUFFED local car enthusiast had the chance to drive a 1963 Rolls Royce Silver Cloud Series 3 in a five-day rally with 13 other Rolls Royce vehicles from Wangaratta to Metung last week.

Stanley’s David McKay had been thrilled to be asked by his 86-yearold friend, retired North Barnawartha cattle farmer, John Bidgood, and owner of the Rolls Royce, to sit in the driver’s seat for the rally.

Manufactured at the Crewe factory in Cheshire, England, the vehicle is considered to be one of the most majestic, elegant and beautiful models produced.

Organised by the Rolls Royce Club of Australia’s ACT Branch, motor enthusiasts from South Australia, NSW, ACT and

from around Victoria in their glistening pride and joys gathered in Wangaratta last Monday for the 600-kilometre return scenic trip.

David said the first coffee stop had been in Beechworth on Tuesday where the convoy then took in Stanley, Myrtleford, Bright, Harrietville and over Mt Hotham, with stays along the way as they headed to Metung near Lakes Entrance where the group bunked down for two nights.

Drivers headed back to their interstate homes from Metung where David and other locals returned via Mount Hotham.

“Great weather prevailed as we drove through beautiful country with autumn colours, we have photos of snow as a backdrop when travelling through snow country and the road was good,” David said.

Some of the Rolls Royce vehicles in last

five-day rally.

DELIGHTED: Stanley’s David McKay (left) with friend John Bidgood and Sally McKay on the five-day rally to Metung and back.

BUDGET ENDORSED: Indigo Shire councillors, including Mayor Sophie Price (pictured) have endorsed a draft budget for 2023/24.

Cosi perforamnces postponed

By CORAL COOKSLEY

BEECHWORTH Theatre Company performances of the hilarious classic play ‘COSI‘ by Australian playwright Louis Nowra has been postponed to July.

BTC theatre director Janet Tweedie said the May production had to be cancelled due to ongoing illness in the cast.

The production had been postponed last week after a cast member contracted COVID–19, with performances initially rescheduled over the coming fortnight.

“With such a small ensemble piece it is impossible to give a performance that an audience deserves to experience when one of the cast is missing,” she said.

After much debate, Janet said the cast and crew decided to make the difficult decision to postpone performances, with new dates now locked in.

All ticket holders will be contacted to be offered either transfer of tickets or full refunds.

“We look forward to re–grouping and providing the Beechworth and surrounding communities with a quality production of this wonderful play,” Janet said.

Performances at Beechworth Serviceman‘s Memorial Hall will now take place on Friday, July 21 and Saturday, July 22 at 7.30pm with a matinee session at 2.30pm on Sunday, July 23.

Janet said she hoped ticket holders will hang on to their tickets to see the show.

“We hope other community members who hadn‘t as yet booked for the original times can see the show at one of the July performances too,” she said.

“We‘ve worked so hard since February and will be ready to share Louis Nowra‘s wonderful characters with the world”.

Mother’s Day treats

By CORAL COOKSLEY

LAST Friday marked a special time for local mum Georgina Curtis when Beechworth Community Early Years Learning Centre at Mayday Hills held an afternoon event in the lead up to Mothers’ Day on Sunday.

“It’s been a special hour where youngsters have been undertaking some craft making jewellery for us as well as little posies, and there has even been a nail salon to have a manicure before you leave too,” she said.

“The kids are really treating their mums and all the special people in their lives today.

“It’s great to see what the

kids are doing at the Centre too”.

Beechworth mum Lou Friend said she had attended every Mothers’ Day event at the centre since moving to Beechworth four

years ago.

“The centre always put on such a lovely show for us and cooks up nice things and my son Bertie gave me a manicure,” she said.

“We brought Bertie here

after he was born and it’s a really special place for us.

“It’s such a connection to a community where I’ve met most of my friends.”

Beechworth’s Justine Donaldson said the kids

had been excited to celebrate giving their mums special treats.

“The special time had been a great chance to catch up with everyone too,” she said.

Yarn spinning showcase

By CORAL COOKSLEY

WANGARATTA Handweavers and Spinners members caught the eyes of locals as well as tourists when the group set up on a perfect autumn day in Beechworth’s Town Hall Gardens last week.

Coordinator for this year’s activities, Beechworth’s Dianne Adams, said the session aimed to promote different aspects of spinning to interested people walking by.

“A highlight for us was a group of Year 5 and 6 primary school students and their teachers from a small East Gippsland school on a school camp who chatted to us,” she said.

“A couple of students had the chance to spin some fibre too”.

Dianne said 14 spinners and weavers from Bright, Everton, Markwood, Wandiligong, Myrtleford, Wangaratta, Yackandandah and

Beechworth joined in the morning’s event.

This year marks the 60 plus-strong member group’s 50th Anniversary. An exhibition of their work will be held at the Milawa Community Hall from June 30 to July 1 to celebrate the special occasion.

With meetings held on the first Tuesday of the month at the hall from 9.30am to 3pm, Dianne said members enjoyed their days together as well as learning new skills associated with fibre.

“There are opportunities to learn spinning, weaving, felting and crochet where an annual program is also developed with demonstrations,” she said.

Ms Adams said the group had flourished in North East Victoria since its beginning with several original members still actively participating.

SPECIAL TIME: Local mums Justine Donaldson (left) with son Angus (2 ½), Lauren Malins with Daughter Livija (4), Jane Archer with daughter Alexis (2), Onella Kelly with Cian (2) and Lou Friend with son Bennie had a fun time at Beechworth Community Early Years Learning Centre last Friday.

PHOTO: Coral Cooksley

COLOURFUL: Beechworth mum Georgina Curtis loved having her nails painted by her three-year-old son Angus at Beechworth Community Early Years Learning Centre last Friday for Mothers’ Day.

PHOTO: Coral Cooksley

HOOKED IN: Students on a school camp from a small East Gippsland primary school enjoyed chatting and having a go at spinning last week when the Wangaratta Handweavers and Spinners group set up in the Beechworth Town Hall Gardens. PHOTO: Dianne Adams.

Celebrating volunteers

By CORAL COOKSLEY

ST JOSEPH’S Primary School students joined other volunteers at Quercus Beechworth for a high tea on Monday to celebrate National Volunteers Week with this year’s theme ‘The Change Makers’ held between May 15 and 21.

The young volunteers are among a number of students in the school’s Mary and Brigid Social Justice group giving up their own time to help out in the neighbourhood centre’s op shop and community garden social enterprises.

Quercus Beechworth (QB) staff presented all volunteers with a thank you gift of a lapel pin engraved with this year’s theme as well as a certificate of appreciation organised with Volunteering Australia.

Five volunteers received a gold pin marking 15 or more years’ service while seven received a silver pin for between 10 and 14 years.

Quercus Beechworth manager Paivi Watson said the event acknowledged the valuable work of the community organisation’s volunteers.

“If we didn’t have our volunteers, nothing much would happen,” she said.

Paivi said 80 per cent of QB’s income came through volunteer hands with their time contributed to the organisation.

“We have very limited government funding and it’s quite amazing that we are able to do all the

things that we do in the community only because of our volunteers,” she said.

“A large number of volunteers who I speak to every day, say volunteering is important for them to give something back as they have received so much from their community over the years.

“Volunteering is good for social connection too.”

Paivi said bookshop volunteers loved books and engaging with the community and also visiting tourists to the bookshop.

“They really become experts,” she said.

“Op shop volunteers have always been very passionate about community support providing that assistance to the community.”

For Beechworth’s Jo Newman, volunteering in the bookshop for more than eight years had been a chance to give back to the community as well as meeting people looking for books as well as making many friends too.

Jo organises bookshop volun-

teer rosters as well as helping out with other activities including adding donated books to shelves.

“Working in the bookshop is my favourite day of the week,” she said.

“I love being here as it’s like being a kid in a lolly shop with so many books to choose from.

“It’s great as we can recommend books too and sometimes someone will come in looking for a book, and just by some chance, we’ve got it.

“It’s just the best feeling.”

VALUED: Some of the volunteers at Monday’s high tea with members of staff where they had been presented with Certificates of Appreciation and lapel pins.

PHOTO: Coral Cooksley.

MOVING: One of four speakers Beechworth’s Drag’d out committee member Andew Madden shared a personal story the crowd on Wednesday.

PHOTO: Indigo Shire Council.

Locals enjoy success at Rutherglen’s regional busking championships

By CORAL COOKSLEY

BUSKERS took to Rutherglen’s historic Main Street at the weekend on a glorious autumn day for the regional heat of the Australian National Busking Championships (ANBC).

Organised by Destination Rutherglen and Arts Rutherglen, the town had hosted its inaugural event last year.

With a great vibe as music resonated around the town last Saturday, Destination Rutherglen’s Peter Walker said numbers appeared to be up from last year, which had drawn a crowd of around 2000 people.

Thirty-five buskers mostly from around regional Victoria performed, with musicians competing for a hefty prize pool worth more than $10,000.

Among place getters, new band ‘Luceys’ with Rutherglen’s Tilly Pin came up trumps winning the Best Band category as well as scoring second place in the People’s Choice Award, while Yackandandah’s Jack Gregory took out second place in the secondary school section.

Another local band, The Riverines, picked up a Special Judge’s Award while Wo-

donga’s Zac and Eliza Spalding won an award in the Country Music section.

“Presentations held at The Star Hotel drew a large crowd to see the winners receive their awards,” Mr Walker said.

“An open mic session was then held to entertain the throng.”

Winners will head to Cooma to compete in the

national competition on November 23 this year.

The ANBC began in Cooma 12 years ago and now attracts national attention with a total of nine regional competitions around country towns in Queensland, NSW, Victoria and the ACT prior to the Grand Final held in November each year.

Over the past 12 years the

ANBC has held 60 Busking competitions and awarded more than $350,000 in cash prizes to buskers from around the nation.

ANBC president Allen Spencer said more than $200,000 has been raised over that time for local charities in the towns where the busking competitions are held.

“It helps organisations to

run the events and draws people to the town which helps with tourism,” he said.

With Rutherglen wellknown as a wine and food destination, Mr Walker said events such as the busking regional heat added another string to the town’s bow.

“Surveys undertaken over the day showed a large number of people were drawn from the area to Rutherglen

just for the event,” he said.

Mr Walker said the town had seen an increase in visitations helping local businesses too.

“These events also bring together a diverse group of people in the community working as both individuals and groups creating a more cohesive network for future events as well as creating a forum for fresh ideas.”

THRILLED: Rutherglen local new band ‘Lucey’ members 18-year-old Miller Hearn (left) on lead guitar, 15-year-old Tom Cremer on drums, 19-year-old lead vocalist Tilly Pinn, 19-year-old Shae Kerin on bass guitar and 17-year-old Alex Lutton on keys at the Rutherglen Heat of the Australian National Busking Championships on Saturday.

Beechworth’s Christ Church jazzed up

By CORAL COOKSLEY

A CONTEMPORARY

chamber jazz ensemble with its unique sound is set to delight music lovers at this Sunday’s Christ Church concert.

Melbourne-based musical trio Antelodic, led by guitarist and composer Robbie Melville with saxophonists Angela Davis and Gideon Brazil will return to Beechworth where they played five years ago on their ‘Spring Thing’ tour.

Award-winning musician Mr Melville said their music ranged from quirky and light-hearted to gentle and melancholy.

“It’s personal to me, but I believe it’s true that ‘what is most personal is most universal’ and I hope the audience will be able to recognise parts of themselves in some of the themes I write about such as drinking songs, loss and grief, family and friends,” he said.

“I’m hoping the music will touch people with subtleties of emotion that often go unnoticed in daily life in the race to get to the end of the day in one piece, with the feeling of having achieved something positive.”

Mr Melville said performing in Christ Church with its incredible acoustics had been amazing.

“I remember the saxo-

phonists being very happy as music we play can be fairly demanding,” he said.

“They didn’t have to work as hard as they usually do due to the sound of the church”.

Mr Meviile recalled a meet and greet in 2018 with audience members over a

cup of coffee prior to the concert, where the trio had been made to feel very welcome.

“I’m looking forward to seeing some of the autumn colours in Beechworth too,” he said.

Antelodic will present Iceland! Iceland! – a gentle

optimistic, lyrical and engaging program for a trio of guitar and tenor and alto saxophones.

The concert is part of an exciting Christ Church annual series held around every two months throughout the year.

Concert proceeds are

reserved specifically for ongoing maintenance of the church’s historic pipe organ and grand piano.

For more information and online bookings, visit Eventbrite at https://www. eventbrite.com.au/e/icelandiceland-tickets-618366750597 or phone 03-57281893

READY TO PERFORM: Jazz ensemble Antelodic will perform at Beechworth Christ Church this Sunday.

Engine restoration rewarded

By CORAL COOKSLEY

A RESTORED 100–year–old Austral 11 horsepower (HP) engine caught the eye of judges at the region’s Drive Back in Time‘s ‘Show and Shine‘ event in Beechworth earlier this month, hosted by the local Old Cranks Motor Club.

A thrilled George Bennett from Everton Upper scooped a trophy for the old engine category. Owned by George for

around two decades, the 1923 engine had been purchased from the estate of Alec Collie from Greta West.

“I looked at it for a while before I restored it, had to make some parts and find other parts too as it wasn‘t complete,” he said.

It‘s been a trip down memory lane for George as his grandfather had an engine exactly the same vintage and year but had been destroyed in a bushfire

in 1944.

“I got the opportunity to buy this one and there‘s probably only five or six of them in existence,” he said.

“They run on petrol but can run on kerosene too.”

Austral engines had been manufactured by Ronaldson Bros. & Tippett Co (RBT) founded in 1903 in Ballarat where the company became one of the most successful engine manufacturers in its day in the southern hemisphere.

Giving back to the community

CHARLES Dean was born and grew up in inner Melbourne. He moved to Canberra looking for work where he stayed for the next three decades with a career mostly in computing. With his wife Nadia and their children, the family moved to Beechworth with the Montessori School an attraction, as well as from Charles’ love of the area from earlier visits to the town. The family has happily lived in the town for nearly seven years.

What have you done workwise and what do you do now?

I’ve worked a number of jobs - gold miner, lab manager and in the building industry - but moved to computing which I really enjoyed, ending up as enterprise architect for the Department of Industry. I am now a proud Beechworth Books owner with Nadia.

What brought you to your latest role?

Charles Dean, Beechworth

same for someone else’s child. As I spent time with them then, I learned how much the SES does for the community and the large range of services provided. There is a very small number of volunteers that make themselves available 24/7, 365 days of the year and I thought that was really admirable.

Is there an important community issue that you think needs addressing?

May - June

STANLEY ATHENAEUM: Exhibition. ‘Stanley Pubs, Ales and Tales’. Informative illustrated story panels and locally found objects convey the community. importance and essential role of hotels during the gold rush era.

Visit the exhibition at the Stanley Post

community hub (old Stanley school), Main Street.

Open Monday to Friday 8.30-10.30am and 3.30-5.30pm, Saturday 9am-11am or by appointment - contact: 0458 606 922 or 03 5728 6702

Closed Sunday, public holidays and red code days.

IF you have an event you’d like added to this calendar, please email edit.omadvertiser@nemedia.com.au

A love of books, a wonderful wife who sees opportunity, and the amazing Beechworth community. We had moved from a rented house to our current property for about a week when our son Ben, went missing. For the next 20 hours and with horrific weather it seemed that the whole community turned out to help look for him. We will be forever grateful to the emergency services and people of Beechworth for their efforts. Nadia and I decided that we would work to be more of a part of the community and find ways to give back some of what we have received. When the bookshop was offered for sale, we decided that it would be a great fit for our lives and interests.

What do you love about your work?

Books and the people. I have met some wonderful people, chatting over a favourite book or learning about a new one and even the commercial folk in bookselling are really kind and friendly.

What do you do in the community?

I’m the unit controller for Beechworth State Emergency Service (SES) and I joined mostly because of the amazing efforts the SES put in to find Ben. I thought that maybe I could do the

As the father of a child with an intellectual disability I have run into the difficulty of getting health and allied services in the area. There is a big push for people to move to the regional areas, but services have to be available and funded to match the population.

What do you see as one of the most important current world issues?

I personally think that the environment as a whole is our biggest issue. Global warming, species extinction, land degradation and unsustainable practices will be impacting us for a very long time.

If the person you would most like to meet came to Indigo Shire (past or present), or was already here, who would that be, what would you show them, and why?

I would love to be able show my late father through Beechworth and area. He was an early supporter of historical areas in Melbourne and was co-founder of the Parkville Association that saved the unique Victorian suburb from knockdown and development. He would love the beautiful buildings and surrounds and how well it is preserved.

What book are you reading?

Far too many but I’ve just started ‘The Bookbinder of Jericho’ by Pip Williams.

ALL SMILES: Everton Upper‘s George Bennett received a trophy for his restored 100–year–old Austral engine.

PHOTO: Coral Cooksley

BOOK LOVER: Beechworth Books’ Charles Dean enjoys meeting wonderful people chatting over a favourite book or learning about a new one.

Golfers post strong scores in Myrtleford tournament

By DYLAN POOL

WELL done to some of our female members who performed well at Myrtleford in their Tournament last week.

On Thursday in the women’s bowl Jan Lang had the best score of the day with 39 points, while Coral Ward had 35 points which no doubt was worthy of a prize.

On Friday in the four ball competition, the mother and daughter pairing of Judy and Jacqui Pierce had 43 points to finish runners up in the women’s event.

Hollie Goodwin and Zoe Gephart also had a good score winning a ball with 41 points.

Zoe also won nearest the pin on the 16th.

The May Monthly Medal was played on Sunday in fantastic conditions and the course is looking great.

The winner of the medal was Jamie Dolny (17) 65, the runner up was Andy Croome (18) with 67, followed by Dave Lang (17) 68 and Ryan Hayes (18) 72.

Nearest the pins went to Dylan Pool on the 10th and Jacob Howard on the 17th.

This coming Sunday there will be a stableford event at Beechworth from 11:30 for a 12pm start.

Bethanga’s Tournament is also on and we have three of us going at this stage and it would be great to see a few more attend.

It is 9:30am for a 10 am start. If anyone would like to go let

Dylan know and a lift can also be organised.

Sunday, May 28 is the NEDGA Sandgreen Championships at Yackandandah and there will be no competition at Beechworth on this day.

Players must enter online and you can find the link on the North Eastern District Golf Association Facebook page.

Yackandandah always send players to our events, so please make an effort to support them.

Bushies’ bounced

Co-coach Tom Cartledge said his side took some time to adjust to the 10 changes made from their

“We welcomed a few blokes back into the senior side and that was always going to be a challenge, no got to come back into the team and gel and that trust play and we can’t take anything away from them, they rst half and we were below

“They’re very good on the ground; they were quite quick and spread fast out of the contest and

“When you combine those things and when the pace, it doesn’t take much to be exposed and I’d say that’s where they Going into the league-wide bye the Bushies fell der leader Kiewa Sandy Creek at Baarmutha Park, rst loss nished against the Roos going forward as they look to rejuvenate over the

“Even though it wasn’t going our way there were still lots of things we were doing right, we just had to son] but we’ll be looking to take another scalp next weekend, it’s all well and good to beat the sides you lenging wins that really set you up for later in the

“We don’t need to change too much, we just need play and they’re as much as we’re looking to

STRONG

Judy and Jacqui Pierce performed admirably to finish second in Myrtleford’s four ball tournament last week.

Bushies’ bounced

By BAILEY ZIMMERMANN

A SPIRITED second half comeback wasn’t enough for the Beechworth Bushrangers, who suffered their first loss of the 2023 season to Yackandandah 12.7 (79) to 9.15 (69).

The Roos were on fire from the opening bounce in front of a healthy home crowd at Butson Park, restricting the Bushrangers to just the solitary goal in the first half to take a 29 point lead at the main break.

Beechworth looked to have come out of the sheds a different side, slashing the lead to 16 points at three quarter time behind the performances through the middle of Liam Stephens, Tristan Stead, Brent Ryan and Kayde Surrey, who was swung forward after half time.

The Bushies have made a habit of leaving their best football until the last quarter of games this season and Saturday was no exception, as spearhead Lachie Armstrong slotted a second fourth quarter goal midway through the term to put the Bushies in front for the first time in the match.

Yackandandah showed nerves of steel to kick the last two goals of the game and run out 10 point winners and jump the Bushies into second on the ladder.

■ Continued page 11

Deutz Fahr 6145

LOOKING AHEAD: Liam Stephens was the pick of the Bushrangers on the weekend against Yackandandah as his team will look to bounce back from the narrow loss after the league-wide bye.

Photo credit: Samantha Cole (TOP)

Madeline Kate (BOTTOM)

A winery wedding in the country at Annapurna Estate

A BEAUTIFUL country setting can provide all the sought after elements to a wedding - romance, intimacy and that personal touch that is lacking in clichéd function centres.

However, many bridal couples are daunted by the idea of organising a wedding so far from home.

The thought of synchronising guests, goods and services over distance can be overwhelming.

But it doesn’t need to be according to Ezio Minutello, wedding co-ordinator at Annapurna Estate.

“We pride ourselves on helping couples bring all those elements together effortlessly,” Ezio said.

“Our speciality is hosting a wedding which has that personal touch because it is tailor-made to the bridal couple’s individual requirements.

“We have hosted reception brunches, afternoon teas, buffets, cocktail parties, spit roasts and sit down dinner menus with anywhere from a cosy 30 to 130 or more guests.

“With our chef, Daniel, we work with couples to design a menu and occasion that suits their

budget and provides value for money.

“We have successfully created elegant wedding dinners and

informal celebrations alike.

“String quartets, rock duos, jazz bands and even an international gypsy troupe have performed on

our stage and we have a long list of musicians on file.

“Likewise, cake decorators, florists and talented local

photographers are listed with us.”

The vineyard set in the alps offers such a spectacular backdrop, that couples often choose to have their wedding service and photo shoot at Annapurna Estate.

Nestled in the upper Kiewa Valley, Mt Beauty is a charming town to spend a weekend and visitors will find that it boasts a fantastic range of accommodation from the picturesque and affordable caravan parks, through well-appointed motels and classy five star self-contained units.

“Warm summer nights are especially romantic, but every season has its appeal and Annapurna Estate is a stunning wedding venue all year,” Ezio added.

“Despite the alpine location, there is no need to be worried about the weather.

“With our recent renovations we can seat more guests undercover, provide heating and still offer that sense of openness with unique panoramic views.”

To learn more about how Annapurna Estate can make your dream day shine, contact them today.

WARMTH AND CHARM: Every season has its appeal at the stunning Annapurna Estate, especially during winter.

Outstanding views and a perfect backdrop

WHEN looking for a wedding venue in North East Victoria, look no further than the Wangaratta Turf Club.

They boast Wangaratta’s largest and most modern facility, amazing views, and the ability to cater for events with thousands of attendees within their landscaped surroundings.

The Wangaratta Turf Club has a number of picturesque locations for that picture perfect wedding photo including on their beautiful lawns or at their rotunda.

The modern grandstand can even provide the unique backdrop for your ceremony.

When it comes to the reception, there are indoor or outdoor choices with a variety of rooms and sizes for fun and formalities.

Two smaller suites on the third floor offer private bars and stunning views and are idyllic for a small intimate

function - or even your ceremony.

Level 1 has one of the most beautiful function rooms you have ever seen with three sides of floor to ceiling windows allowing natural light to set the scene.

This room has the flexibility to be divided into smaller rooms if needed and the experienced inhouse catering team at the Wangaratta Turf Club will work with you to create the perfect menu and can cater for as little as 20 or as many as 500 people.

You can look forward to a variety of food choices from an intimate dinner, a widespread buffet, a formal three course meal or even a relaxed cocktail party.

Speak to the events team today to discuss all your options and book your venue tour via wangaratta@ countryracing.com.au or call (03) 5722 1242 for more information.

OPTIONS: There are several locations for your ceremony, photos and reception.

Brides and grooms can relax, Kerrie has got this

WEDDINGS can be a stressful planning journey with so many details to exact and think about.

But brides and grooms can relax because Kerrie from Bring Around a PosY has got this.

She will take all your stress away and your floral ordering will be a breeze.

Emotion is Kerrie’s design tool and she will guide you in your options and choices from the moment you first reach out.

“By providing me with your colour palette for your day and wedding setting I can work on a mood board of choices to get to know you and your perfect vision for the wedding day,” Kerrie said.

“From there it’s easy to put it all together - just a few questions around your preferred flowers list and clear communication and your time and focus can turn to other planning tasks.”

Kerrie immerses herself in the care and trust given to her by clients and feels privileged and honoured to help create the perfect flower arrangements

for the most special and memorable of days.

The care Kerrie takes flows through to all her

designs and you’ll be glad you chose her to take care of all your wedding floral requirements.

ROMANTIC candlelit venues, flattering, soft sunlight for your photographs, red wine, the sound of a crackling fire and a hearty meal at the reception - these are all good reasons to celebrate a wedding in winter.

Typically, there are less social events and weddings during winter so guests are more likely to be able to come and they won’t have ‘wedding hangover’ from constant casual drinks or celebrations.

They might be more inclined to lengthen their stay, giving you extra time to catch up.

When it comes to what to wear, the option of something more casual or chic can be styled up with a long or short jacket or a functional shawl which will be easy to remove before you hit the dance floor, but offer you enough warmth while you’re sitting down catching up with family and friends.

Long-sleeved wedding dresses and well-cut suits in shades other than brown or pale blue have

also come a long way since the 1960s and 1970s so you might be able to update your mother or grandmother’s dress to something that’s a little more ‘you’.

Maybe your tastes run in a different way ... who says you can’t ask your guests to get dressed up in their best pair of sweatpants for your wedding celebration? It is your day after all.

Make your smile the ‘something’ new on your special day

IF you think a picture-perfect smile is out of your reach... think again.

Evolve Orthodontics has a clear alternative to traditional braces that can help you achieve a smile to be proud of.

Clear, removable and comfortable, Aligners can transform your smile in just a few months.

The best part is, a new smile doesn’t wash off at the end of the day - you can enjoy it for the rest of your life together.

Book your free, no-obligation consultation with the dedicated team at Evolve Orthodontics today to discuss how Orthodontic treatment can fit in to your dream wedding plan.

Their treatment co-ordinators Erin and Kristy work closely with their specialist orthodontist, to guide you through the initial treatment process and will be with you every step of the way as you start your journey towards your picture perfect smile.

Your personal treatment coordinator works with you to ensure your treatment and all the events associated are scheduled in a convenient and efficient way.

They will help arrange a payment plan to cover the cost involved and will provide you with all the information you need to make an informed and confident decision.

Evolve Orthodontics use the revolutionary Dental Monitoring technology to make sure your treatment stays on track in the countdown to your big day.

Say yes to the smile of your dreams.

To request a free consultation visit www.evolveorthodontics.com.au.

Just what does a celebrant do?

YOUR chosen celebrant’s whole focus is to help you design a celebration that will “make all your dreams come true.”

The celebrant will try to truly get to know the couple, learning all about their ‘love story’ and considering ways in which to incorporate that into their own specially designed ceremony.

Some couples may want to incorporate special rituals that will make their celebration ‘stand out’ or ask family or friends not otherwise involved in the wedding party to do a ‘special reading’.

“We would encourage everyone to explore their own cultural and spiritual heritage and beliefs when looking to design their own personal ceremony,” Sandra from Dream Believer Celebrancy said.

“We are happy to explore any cultural or spiritual requests.”

The role of the celebrant may involve working with any additional people involved in the ceremony, ensuring that everyone

can help you incorporate special elements to your wedding ceremony.

is comfortable and clear about their role and where it fits in with the ceremony as a whole.

Aside from writing the

personalised ceremony, the role of the celebrant is to ensure that all the legalities are adhered to, including assisting with garnering required permits for park or beach locations.

The celebrant will liaise with all the other vendors, including the venue, photographer/ videographer and the person responsible for the music, ensuring everyone is clear about their role.

“I feel that a large part of the job is to ensure that the ceremony runs as efficiently as possible.” Sandra said.

“In many ways, we might operate as a quasi ‘wedding planner’, ensuring that the ceremony runs as smoothly as possible on the day.”

“It is also possible to extend the contract and hire us to MC the reception, which will provide continuance of the liaison service, guaranteeing a smooth running of the reception,” she said.

Mobile catering is a real option

YOU have the perfect reception venue in mind.

Then you find out that they don’t offer food.

Your perfect location suddenly doesn’t seem so perfect, does it?

There is no need to worry, because that’s when mobile, on-site catering companies come to the rescue.

Whether your venue is a private property, a rented holiday house, a local hall, a vineyard or something else entirely, mobile catering might be just what you need.

During lockdowns and the unknown during COVID, many bricks and mortar businesses ‘pivoted’ and found new ways to provide their well-known and delicious food to new and regular customers.

Many offered a takeaway or delivery service whereas others, who were already dipping their toes into the catering service waters, took a chance and dove right in, preparing themselves for when life got ‘back to normal’ by

renovating or enlarging their catering kitchens or vehicles and updating their menu options.

With so many celebrations postponed and previously booked or dream venues still somewhat unavailable, it’s good to know that

there are a number of local businesses who offer mobile catering especially for weddings, wherever you choose to have it.

So when considering the reception and food element for your big day, consider a local mobile, onsite caterer.

INDIVIDUAL: Celebrants

HAVE KITCHEN, WILL TRAVEL: Thanks to the COVID epidemic, many businesses took the opportunity to offer new options to customers, including mobile catering.

The perfect location for your perfect day

THE Pavilion at Buller Wines is the ideal venue for your wedding this year and beyond.

With flexible wedding packages available, the friendly team will sit down with couples and design a unique package just for their special day.

Ceremony locations abound, with favourites being at the old gum tree in front of the vineyard on The Calliope Lawn and on the second lawn area under dappled shade from beautiful deciduous trees.

A dedicated bridal car entrance is currently under construction and will feature a row of white roses for guests to make their way to the ceremony location.

Their ceremony package includes signing table, arbour and ceremony chairs and the team at The Pavilion will set everything up out on the lawn, or in the case of inclement weather, inside.

When it comes to your photos, the winery has some amazing photo location opportunities with a backdrop of old buildings, the vineyard and the expansive lawn areas.

While couples are getting their photos taken, guests can take part

in lawn games while enjoying canapes out on the lawn and drinks are served from the pop up lawn bar, which makes for a lovely, relaxed afternoon.

Then it’s time for the allimportant reception where couples can choose from traditional alternate plated meals

to a cocktail style, all paired with beautiful wine from Buller Wines. There’s even a Mimosa Bar option and, for the warmer months, couples can book an ice cream cart to provide an exciting little treat to finish the night on.

Alternatively, if you want to celebrate a post-wedding brunch

WEDDINGS & EVENTS

Celebrate your special day at The Pavilion, in a picturesque setting, overlooking the historic Calliope Vineyard at Buller Wines, Rutherglen.

The perfect setting for your beautiful winery wedding, spacious lawn areas, gardens, vineyard and vintage buildings for amazing photo locations.

Our flexible packages will have you and your guests enjoying delicious food paired with the perfect wine in our relaxed, elegant and slightly rustic Pavilion.

We have the flexibility to cater for weddings from 30 - 130 guests for a sit down function, including dance area.

And coming very soon, Vine Views accommodation, opening on site, with views across the vineyard, the perfect place to retreat to, after your day of celebration.

Ceremony

or lunch you can book space inside or spill out onto the lawn.

Eight new one bedroom Vine Views apartments will open later this year where bridal parties can prepare before the wedding and/ or have a place to retire to after the wedding. There will be two ‘views’

available - the historic Calliope vineyard or garden views.

The Pavilion at Buller Wines offer some helpful hints for couples when it comes to choosing your ceremony and reception venue/s:

Always have a plan B for your outdoor ceremony - make sure that you love any inside venue you choose just as much as your outdoor setting.

At The Pavilion, they utilise one of their indoor rooms which comes complete with an arch window and is the perfect backdrop for your ceremony. Transport - you want to make it as easy as possible for your guests to arrive at your wedding (and on time) and there are several local bus companies that can be booked for transporting guests between their accommodation in Corowa and Rutherglen and The Pavilion and to collect them to take them home again.

There are still some available dates for weddings in 2023 at The Pavilion at Buller Wines and they are now taking bookings for 2024 so contact the friendly team today and discuss your ideal, unique wedding.

*Vine Views at Buller Wines accommodation opening soon in 2023

hello@thepavilionrestaurant.com.au

Get in touch and we will send you our wedding brochure and welcome you for a site visit.

https://www.mcquiltonproductions.com.au

Photography ~ McQuilton Productions

PERFECTLY PLACED: The Pavilion at Buller Wines is the ideal venue for your wedding.

Celebrate your way at Feathertop Private Estate

WITH 360-degree views of Mount Buffalo and the valleys, plentiful vistas of vineyards and exclusive Tuscan inspired architecture, Feathertop Private Estate will ensure your wedding is as romantic and memorable as you have always imagined it will be.

Feathertop has been delivering weddings for more than 30 years and has built great relationships with local like-minded professionals.

They have a list of preferred partners from celebrants, to hair and make-up, photographers, videographers and florals.

Holding your event at Feathertop Private Estate ensures exclusive use of a dedicated wedding planner and stylist to assist with all your coordination and planning in the lead up and on the day, so you can enjoy the day stress free knowing you have professional care.

The estate’s newest addition, The Vineyard Residence, is the perfect

location if you are looking to elope or have a small intimate family celebration.

The Vineyard Residence is a spectacular architecturally designed luxury home, showcasing its intoxicating vineyard views and breathtaking

views of the region’s famous Mt Buffalo.

The Residence is unbeatable for its grandeur and features whilst still maintaining a sense of place in the surrounding landscape.

The Private Estate can

accommodate up to 18 people with The Vineyard Residence sleeping 10; Mount Buffalo View Apartment sleeping six; and Peggy Adelaide Penthouse sleeping two. You will be guaranteed that getting ready on

your special day becomes luxurious, easy and stress free with plenty of space for bridal parties and families to relax.

The Vineyard Residence can cater for seated celebrations of up to 30 people or cocktail style

celebrations for up to 50 guests.

Operating as a private estate allows you and your guests to enjoy the property exclusively for the duration of your events.

This extends beyond your ceremony and reception and can also include any pre or post wedding celebrations you may want to organise (eg; welcome Friday dinners, private tastings, recoveries, hen’s pampering or stay for a few extra days to kick start your honeymoon).

Event styling with casual canapes or grazing tables, to formal seated degustations and decadent dessert bars, Feathertop can work with you to design anything you have on your wedding vision board.

All events are individually styled and coordinated so call Feathertop Private Estate today on (03) 57562356 or email functions@ feathertopwinery.com.au to arrange your special day.

FEATHERTOP PRIVATE ESTATE

Photo credit: Samantha Cole Madeline kate

WHAT A VIEW: The Vineyard Residence at Feathertop Private Estate is the perfect place to relax and unwind after your nuptials.

If the theme fits…

By SIMONE KERWIN

WHEN Melissa Johns was approached to illustrate her latest book, ‘Harriet’s Hungry Worms’, she immediately recognised that the eco-friendly plot was a perfect fit with her artwork.

The Wangaratta artist, illustrator and avid upcycler uses predominantly recycled materials in her work, so Samantha Smith’s story following the adventures of a young girl’s ravenous compost worms resonated strongly with Melissa’s values.

“As soon as I read what it was about I said, ‘I’m going to do it’,” she said.

It is the third picture book Melissa has illustrated for publisher EK Books, following ‘Tabitha and the Raincloud’ (written by Devon Sillett) in 2020, and ‘Growing Pains’ (written by Alison McLennan) in 2021.

Her illustrations enhance the sustainability message of the story, with the recycled materials chosen to help tell the story blooming from each page.

From Harriet’s bright red woolly hair to the patterned bodies of her 983 compost worms, and even sports results torn from the Wangaratta Chronicle, Melissa has incorporated items her readers could find around the house - a great message to send not just young recyclers, but also budding creatives.

“For this book, I recycled everything - paper, fabric, wool for the hair, tea bags…” Melissa said.

“It was quite involved, particularly working on Harriet’s hair each time, and on the fluffy dog (which features a couple of times).

■ Continued page 6

◆ SUSTAINABILITY MESSAGE: Illustrator Melissa Johns with a copy of the latest book she has illustrated, ‘Harriet’s Hungry Worms’, written by Samantha Smith. PHOTO: Simone Kerwin

VET CORNER

Bye bye bot flies

WAS your horse annoyed by bot flies last summer?

If so, it’s likely bot flies have laid eggs on your horses legs, neck and body.

These small, yellow, rice grain likeeggs are ingested by your horse as they lick their legs to groom.

The eggs turn into larvae in the horse’s mouth and stomach.

These larvae attach to the stomach lining and cause inflammation, ulceration and pain.

This can lead to weight loss, reduced appetite and poor condition.

Now in late autumn, when frost kills the adult bot flies, is the time to drench your horse.

Drenching now will disrupt the bot fly lifecycle.

You must drench with a product that contains abamectin, ivermectin

PET CORNER

WANGARATTA RSPCA has many lovable creatures waiting for the perfect family to take them home.

If you want to add a furry friend to your home, call (03) 5722 2874 or visit the shelter at 1 Connell Street Wangaratta.

Wangaratta RSPCA’s animal adoption source code is BR100934

SUPER MARIO: If you like confidence and companionship then Mario is the cat you’re looking for. He is a love-bug who will always shower you with affection.

Mario does get along with others and would quite like to live with another friendly cat for company. His microchip number is 991001002697847.

with Emily Ross BAgDVM(Honsl), Wangaratta Veterinary Clinic

or moxidectin to kill larvae that have developed from the bot fly eggs your horse has ingested over summer.

Drenching for bot flies coincides with the recommendation to deworm your adult horse once a year in late autumn.

Regular worming of adult horses is no longer recommended.

To slow drench resistance, worming your horse at other times of the year should be governed by faecal egg counts (FEC’s).

Horse with FEC’s over 200 eggs per gram should be dewormed.

To discuss worming or FEC’s please contact your local veterinarian.

Ripping week for fishing

I HAVE had a ripper time fishing in North East Victoria over the past week.

My dad and I fished at Lake Buffalo late last week.

We caught around 70 redfin, give or take a few.

As is often the case, many of the redfin were too small to keep however we did manage to bring home nine or 10 nice size fish up to 35cm long.

Pretty much any lure we used worked, whereas bait didn’t.

Of all the fish we caught, two were caught on live yabbies and one was caught on worms.

The rest were caught on lures.

Lipless crankbaits, soft plastics, blades and hard body divers all worked really well.

We launched about 8.30am and when we returned to the boat ramp mid afternoon there was quite a few heads, gills and guts laying in the water indicating that we were not the only anglers to find success on the day.

If you head up there, make sure you carry plenty of warm clothes because it was bitterly cold.

During the week I went cod fishing from my kayak in the Ovens River where I managed to catch three Murray cod varying in size from 40cm to 55cm.

I caught one cod on a spinnerbait and the other two on a small hard body diving lure.

I fished for close to two hours before I had any kind of action and then caught all three cod in a 45 minute bite window.

The Waranga Basin is fishing exceptionally well for redfin at the moment.

I have had plenty of reports and seen plenty of photos of the redfin being caught up there lately.

On the weekend I was up there with my wife and kids photographing birds and could see a young family catching redfin from the bank not far from us.

This Day in History, 1976

MAY 17, 1976 was the day set down for the commencement of IBM assembly operations in Wangaratta.

The setting up of IBM in Wangaratta was an important step for Wangaratta’s future prosperity.

15 men had been sent overseas to study manufacture and assembly techniques of electric typewriters at an IBM plant in Ontario, Canada, and a temporary assembly line had been established at the Wangaratta Woollen Mills to get production underway.

The first shipment of 200 typewriters left Sydney late in June.

PHOTO: RSPCA.

◆ THE DAILY DOUBLE: I’m not sure if these two Lake Buffalo redfin hit the lure at the same time or if one tried to steel it from the other one after it was hooked.

with Rob Alexander WANGARATTA

Allium Sativa (garlic) - soothe a sore throat

GARLIC is a potent antimicrobial used for thousands of years in many cultures to fight infection.

Garlic can be taken at the first sign of illness or to soothe a sore throat, cough, cold, the flu, or sinus infection.

Try garlic steeped in honey and stirred into a hot cup of tea or eaten by the spoonful.

It really is a delicious and powerful medicine.

These days, its qualities are undisputed.

In fact, thousands of studies have been done on garlic and its primary constituent, allicin, and its effects on the cardiovascular system, infections, the respiratory system, cancer, blood sugar, and more, with amazing results.

It is anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, cholagogue (stimulates the contraction of the gallbladder), diaphoretic, diuretic, expectorant, hypolipidemic (lowers lipids), hypotensive (reduces BP), immune stimulant, diaphoretic,

expectorant, and antimicrobial.

And lucky for us, it is really easy to grow.

Simply plant a clove pointy end up, keep weed free and harvest as the top withers and browns.

If you cut up garlic and place it on the bottom of the feet and wear socks at night, your breath in the morning will smell of garlic.

This is a good demonstration that garlic has a systemic effect on the body, reaching into those nooks and

crannies where pathogens might hide like your lungs.

Heat deactivates garlic’s potency, so allowing the clove to sit, crushed on your board for three to five minutes before lightly cooking allows you to get the most benefit from your garlic.

Those with gastrointestinal sensitivities or ulcers may find that garlic aggravates their condition.

Use only culinary amounts if on blood thinners and during pregnancy,

in the postpartum period, and during lactation.

A clove of garlic can be eaten daily for general support or one clove of garlic can be taken three times a day during acute infections or until you reach your tolerance. Always seek trained practitioner support before starting any herbal or nutritional support.

Visit the North East Natural Health Centre website for more garlic recipes.

with Belinda McPherson NORTH

If the theme fits…

■ From page 1

“I probably enjoyed making the worms most, using different fabrics and trying to portray emotions on such a simply-designed face.”

Indeed, the worms look suitably happy eating Mum’s morning muesli (apart from the orange peels), super relaxed after trying Aunt Tilda’s herbal teabags, and quite disgusted after sampling Nanna Trudy’s two-year-old tomato relish.

The worm reading the sports pages dons glasses as it devours footy fixtures and draws, the racing form guide and Jubilee Golf Club resultsthe latter a local link Melissa enjoyed adding as one of the ‘Easter eggs’ she has included in her books; the first two releases featured her dogs, and her nieces’ and nephews’ names.

Producing the illustrations took about six months, in between Melissa’s day job, family life, and

her role with Art Gallery on Ovens.

“I’m really happy with the final product,” she said.

While in the book Harriet’s recycling produces what she hopes will be “the biggest, tastiest veggie patch ever”, Melissa said this was not the result of her own eco-friendly efforts.

“I’m a shocking gardener,” she said.

“We are environmentally-conscious at home, but all my recycling goes towards art.

“But if I did have a garden, I would consider having compost worms like Harriet.

“I think in a broad way, the story is about sustainability, and there are kids out there who will read it and know exactly what’s going on because they have their own worm farms at home.

“So I’m happy it’s a way to teach little kids about the environment, as well as showing them about the importance of taking

on tasks and chores at home.”

‘Harriet’s Hungry Worms’ is Samantha Smith’s first eco-picture book, and draws on her doctoral research exploring young people’s relationships with the environment, and how to encourage positive behaviour change.

She is hoping it will inspire young ‘worm warriors’ to roll up their sleeves and put their food scraps to good use.

Melissa said she was proud of her three picture books, and had worked hard to ensure her illustrations did justice to the authors’ words.

“I do enjoy it, and I’m proud to be part of them,” she said.

‘Harriet’s Hungry Worms’ was released on May 3 in Australia and New Zealand, and on May 9 in the United Kingdom, United States and Canada.

A local launch for the book will be held at Booktique in Reid Street on Friday, May 19 at 4pm.

* We have a hardcover copy of

FEATURE STORY

‘Harriet’s Hungry Worms’ (EK Books, RRP $24.99) to give away to one lucky reader.

Send your entries to skerwin@

nemedia.com.au, including your name and contact details and telling us why you would like to win the book.

◆ LOCAL CONNECTION: Sports results from the Wangaratta Chronicle feature on one of the pages of Melissa Johns’ new book release, ‘Harriet’s Hungry Worms’.

21 Sydney Road, Benalla VIC 3672

SmartPlay Early Learners Benalla are currently seeking:

Lead Educator (Diploma of Early Childhood Education or 50% completed or equivalent)

Assisting Educator (Cert III in Early Childhood or 50% completed or equivalent)

Current Working With Children’s Check required Part-time, hours negotiable.

No expiry date to application. Starting date ASAP. Please visit www.smartplay.edu.au/careers

For any enquiries please contact (03) 5764 7850 Finding

There are four positions available with an average of 35 hours per week and two positions available for an average of 20 hours per week. The hourly rate is $36.00.

Coordinators work closely with accounting teams across the firm, providing support in a range of accounting related matters for clients. We prioritise the promotion and facilitation of both our clients’ and team members’ business and personal goals, fostering a work-life balance environment that enhances your wellbeing.

Our broad range of services includes Accounting, Audit and Assurance, Financial Advisory, Superannuation, Taxation, and Business Consulting Services. At Johnsons MME, we offer more than just a job – we offer:

• a vibrant and engaging working environment

• training and career advancement opportunities

• competitive remuneration

PRIVATE NURSING HOME

Rangeview Private Nursing Home currently has vacancies for REGISTERED NURSE DIVISION 1, PCA WORKERS AND COOKS

Aged Care experience required. A variety of shifts available. Email resumes to janis@meracare.com.au

• active social club and sporting club subsidies

• excellent mentorship and ongoing training to develop your skills

We believe in investing in our team members’ career advancement opportunities. With an attractive remuneration package to be negotiated with the successful candidate, we want you to feel valued for your work.

To find out more about this role, head to johnsonsmme.com.au/careers.

If you’re ready to take the next step in your career, submit your written application to The Human Resources Director enclosing details of your experience, to be received no later than Monday, 29 May 2023.

Alternatively, you can submit an online application at johnsonsmme.com.au/ careers/apply_online.

Join our team at Johnsons MME and discover what a fulfilling career in Chartered Accounting and Business Services can look like.

GREAT JOBS FOR GREAT PEOPLE

The following opportunities now exist for enthusiastic, safety focused people with suitable experience and qualifications. Please visit our website to find out more about current positions available across Mawsons business divisions.

Mildura – Concrete Truck Driver – MILD003

Mansfield – Concrete Truck Driver – MANS002

Mansfield - Quarry Operator – MANQ002

Myrtleford – Concrete Truck Driver – MYRT003

www.mawsons.com.au/careers/join-us

Don’t neglect your skin: protect in summer and detect in winter

UNFORTUNATELY, skin cancer is a common type of cancer in Australia, with our country having one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world.

According to Cancer Council Australia, around two in three Australians will be diagnosed with skin cancer by the age of 70, and more than 2000 people die from the disease each year.

There are three main types of skin cancer: basal cell carcinoma (BCC), squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), and melanoma.

BCC and SCC are the most common types, and while they are generally less dangerous than melanoma, they can still cause significant health problems if left untreated.

Melanoma is less common than BCC and SCC, but it is much more dangerous and can be deadly if not detected and treated early.

One of the most effective ways to prevent and detect skin cancer is through regular skin checks.

It is recommended that adults should have their skin checked

by a doctor, skin clinic doctor or dermatologist at least once a year, and more frequently if they have a higher risk of developing skin cancer.

Risk factors for skin cancer include a history of sun exposure, a family history of skin cancer, fair skin, and a history of using tanning beds.

During a skin check, a doctor or dermatologist will examine your skin for any suspicious moles, freckles, or other lesions that could be a sign of skin cancer.

If they find something that looks suspicious, they may take a biopsy to confirm the diagnosis.

Early detection is key when it comes to treating skin cancer, as it increases the chances of successful treatment and reduces the risk of the cancer spreading.

Treatment for skin cancer may include surgery, radiation therapy, or chemotherapy, depending on the type and stage of the cancer.

Skin cancer is a serious health concern in Australia, and getting regular skin checks is an important

part of preventing and detecting the disease.

If you are at risk of developing skin cancer, it is important to take steps to protect your skin from sun damage, such as wearing protective clothing, using sunscreen, and avoiding tanning beds.

And if you notice any changes in your skin, such as a new mole or a change in an existing mole, be sure to see a doctor, skin clinic doctor or dermatologist right away.

◆ CHECK NOW: If you notice any changes in your skin, such as a new mole or a change in an existing mole, see a skin clinic doctor right away. Dr Dipankar Chakraborty at the Aurora Skin Cancer Centre is among the doctors serving the Wangaratta community.

with Teresa McMahon PRACTICE MANAGER AND PHARMACIST, SOUTH WANGARATTA MEDICAL CENTRE