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Community-led approach

New Beechwoorth Health Service strategy to focus on community collabaration

BUILDING relationships with the community and listening to its members is at the heart of a new marketing and communications strategy running alongside Beechworth Health Service’s (BHS) current strategic plan for 2023 to 2026.

The strategy is subject to final review by the BHS board.

BY CORAL COOKSLEY ccooksley@ nemedia.com.au

“The broad focus of the strategic plan is on better health, better care and better access for our local community,” he said.

cal contribution of our workforce and our capacity to keep planning for the future.

process, Dr Ashcroft said BHS values and its vision as a health service had been refined from received feedback.

BHS chief executive Dr Mark Ashcroft said the strategic plan was reviewed annually to re-assess planning objectives and to identify priorities for the next 12 months.

The current BHS Strategic Plan (2023-2026) reflects feedback from community consultations held in 2023.

“The plan sets out some broad themes for focus such as maintaining excellence in care, building partnerships across the health system, and driving innovation and improvement.

“It also describes the criti-

“In constructing the current strategic plan (20232026) the Beechworth Health Service board invited staff, community members, service partners as well as funding bodies and other groups to plan together.”

With the community helping in the strategic planning

“We aim to have a plan that not only belongs to Beechworth Health Service, but it also has ownership by our community and those people who contributed to it,” he said.

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CWA members Marion Roberts (left), Liz Suhr, Barbara Ireland, Heather Horder, Dawn Mills, Beryl Pope, Caril Bight, Barb Edwards, Tess Lucas and Kathryn Chivers celebrated Beechworth CWA’s 82nd birthday last week.

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PHOTO: Coral Cooksley

New BHS strategy to focus on community collabaration

■ From front page

Dr Ashcroft said consultation sessions took place within the Beechworth community and local service area beyond the town in places such as Tangambalanga and Yackandandah for the marketing and communications plan.

Questions in the marketing and communication consultation survey included what people wanted to know about the health service, how to engage, services offered and how to maintain community awareness, as well as cost and health service accessibility when needed.

“Our community has given us some really good feedback on how we can enhance our communication,” Dr Ashcroft said.

He said two vital outcomes arose from the survey – listening to the community, creating avenues for that to happen and for BHS to take action, while the other is building a communication relationship with the community.

“The BHS board is committed to developing these areas and the way we communicate with our community,” he said.

Dr Ashcroft said BHS was pursuing an approach where people accessing services are seen as customers and owners of the service, not just recipients of it.

“We have a relatively diverse range of services for a small rural health service here in Beechworth with a highly skilled team all invested in contributing to quality, safety and the experience of care” he said.

“Ultimately, BHS’s Strategic Plan (20232026) is aimed at servicing our community.

“Within that mission, we’re really interested in developing relationships within our community and to ensure local people know what services we offer, and how we can work together to ensure services remain fit for purpose into the future.”

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YOUR OVENS AND MURRAY TEAM

By CORAL COOKSLEY

BEECHWORTH Country

Women’s Association (CWA) celebrated 82 years of contributing to the local community with a celebration held at the local Rotary Club Hall last Friday.

Local branch life member Beryl Pope cut the special birthday cake following a fish and chip lunch with some fun party games in between.

President Kathryn Chivers said the branch supports families in need, runs two annual fundraising street stalls and social events for International Women’s Day as well as social outings.

The branch also offers an educational scholarship in memory

Beechworth CWA life member Beryl Pope cut the special birthday cake at last week’s celebration.

Beechworth CWA branch celebrates big birthday

of a former CWA member Jan Suter to support students heading to university with outlays including the cost of books.

Besides CWA’s contribution to the community, Kathryn said CWA also offered a way of connecting women where they could come together for social outings and friendship.

She said last week’s celebration was fun and relaxing.

“We enjoyed the company from visiting branches as well,” she said.

Longtime member for 35-years and past president Tess Lucas said friendship was an important part of the CWA community.

Among numerous projects she said the CWA at large instigated white lines on the edge of

Winterwords heats up

By CORAL COOKSLEY

THIS year’s Winterwords Festival kicks off in less than four weeks’ time with a huge line up of guest speakers.

The community focused and financially accessible event in its fourth year is a festival of word celebration in every shape and form, with an agenda covering art, drama, discussion, music, poetry, prose and storytelling.

Run by the Winterwords Autonomous Collective committee – a small band of dedicated volunteers – president and creative director Janet Tweedie said the group brings a range of guest speakers to Beechworth.

“The community would otherwise have to travel to see them,” she said.

“With the help of Regional Arts Victoria we are bringing actor and writer Stephen Hall to Beechworth where he will perform his one-man show at the Soldiers’ Memorial Hall.”

Stephen’s career - in front of and behind the camera - dates back to 1996, when he started writing TV comedy for Full Frontal.

He has written for more than 30 TV shows, and had been a regular cast member of Shaun Micallef’s ‘Mad as Hell’ for a decade from 2012.

Eight years ago, John Cleese hand-picked Stephen to play the role of Basil in Mr Cleese’s Australian tour of the play ‘Fawlty Towers Live’ with 157 performances.

Stephen will be performing ‘Letters from My Heroes’ - his second one-man show following ‘Raiders of the Temple of Doom’s Last Crusade’.

Among other special guests, will be award-winning screenwriter for TV and film Ian David, and poet, bookseller and co-founder of Vre Books, Ender Baskan.

Janet said a focus has been on women writers, with other guest

roads and founded baby health centres.

Beryl Pope agreed friendship was an important part of the CWA while raising funds is rewarding to help people in need especially locally and in times of natural disasters.

CWA North Eastern group president Barbara Ireland said members from the CWA Barnawartha and Wangaratta branches enjoyed the birthday celebration as well.

Barbara said CWA had a lot of history within the area.

“CWA has a very important role for a number of reasons and contributing to government legislation,” she said.

“It’s a grassroots organisation that looks after community, and because it’s a voluntary group

of community members, they know what’s going on in the community.”

Barbara said as a group president, she takes branch suggestions within her area to the CWA State Council.

“We discuss things on a statewide level,” she said.

She said each group had projects within their own area but could join together with representation to lobby at state level.

Kathryn said the local Beechworth branch welcomes new members and were always on the lookout for younger people to join.

For more information on the local branch visit the group’s Facebook page at www.facebook. com/BeechworthCWA.

speakers being two novelists Kirsty Jagger and Imbe Neeme, two poets Joy Phillips and Rozanne Lilley and two crime writers Shelley Burr and Margaret Hickey.

“Author David Crawford’s has sessions on Simone de Beauvoir with talks and workshops,” she said.

“More music is this year’s program with a singing workshop by Leanne Murphy, bands at Tanswells and a music and poetry session in the town hall.”

Janet said the Winterwords

Autonomous Collective had partnered with Tanswells where the ‘Winternudes’ exhibition and storyslam will both be held.

“We also have the singing workshop and a poetry session with Ender Baskan in that venue,” she said.

“We’ve also partnered with Tiny’s cafe where Adrian Osborne will be doing a range of activities, including word games and little events.”

For more information on the program from June 12 to 16, visit www.winterwords.com.au.

▲ ALL SMILES: Beechworth CWA president Kathryn Chivers (left) and member Beryl Pope with CWA Noth Eastern group president Barbara Ireland.

▶ SLICE:

TASTY TREAT: Beechworth CWA life member Beryl Pope cut the special birthday cake at last week’s 82-year celebration of the local CWA branch. PHOTOS: Coral Cooksley

WELL-KNOWN GUEST: Actor and writer Stephen Hall will be performing his one man show ‘Letters From My Heroes’ at this year’s Winterwords Festival. PHOTO: Mark_Gambino

Indigo Shire celebrates LGBTQIA+ awareness

By CORAL COOKSLEY

INDIGO Shire Council threw its support behind last week’s annual International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia (IDAHOBIT) on May 17 to work towards a future free from discrimination and prejudice.

A community event held in front of the Beechworth’s historic courthouse last week drew an estimated crowd of 100 people being a significant increase on last year’s attendance.

Indigo Shire Council chief executive officer, Trevor Ierino, said the community gathered to stand in solidarity with the LGBTQIA+ community reaffirming commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion.

“It’s a privilege to be a part of an organisation that values diversity, and actively works to create a safe and inclusive environment for all,” he said.

Mayor Sophie Price said one in three of almost 7000 LGBTQIA+ people of all ages in Australia have experienced verbal abuse in the past 12 months because of their identities.

“By celebrating today with millions of other people around the world we are saying no to discrimination and not one day but every day,” she said.

Cr Price said council is working closely with young people to develop initiatives to support inclusion and celebrate diversity, as well as supporting a number of community led initiatives that celebrate and support local LGBTQIA+ community more broadly.

“We’re also in the process of developing our first diversity, equity and inclusion policy as an organisation,” she said.

LINE Wangaratta executive officer and guest speaker Al Winters said the day recognised a positive change for the global community while acknowledging significant discrimination still faced and how much work still needed to be done.

“I hope for a future where the day becomes one of reflection of how far we’ve come, rather than raising awareness of how far we have yet to go,” they said.

Another guest speaker, Beechworth’s Mieke Bosland, spoke about her journey and the challenges faced growing up.

Mieke said she celebrated herself through music.

“It means one more story of pride is being told in the region and I believe that every voice and experience shared is important to create positive change,” she said.

PEOPLE living with a disability or social emotional challenges have a chance to develop their loved interests in a new drama workshop offered in Beechworth.

Drama teacher Sarah Lockwood, running her business with the program called ‘Set Your Own Pace’, creates workshops around participant skills.

“We work with whatever the person wants to work with,” she said.

Sarah said she gets to know the person, then creates the program around their interests.

For local author Callum Clegg, the workshop revolves around his love of writing.

Callum, living with cerebral palsy, continues to follow his dream to become an accomplished author.

Creative since a youngster at high school, the 34-year-old has penned and published three books so far.

Sarah in one-on-one sessions is working with Callum

on an author event to be held on June 23 at Beechworth Secondary College (BSC).

“Cal is going to promote his three books, there will be a Q&A session and he will talk about his writing journey,” Sarah said.

“We also undertake roleplays in the program and have heaps of fun with games too.”

Sarah said she has always loved theatre and throughout her teaching career had noticed people with a disability or people with socially emotional challenges stayed in their comfort zone.

“They’re often knocked back by the director of a play

CELEBRATED: Guest speakers Beechworth’s Mieke Bosland (left), LINE Wangaratta executive officer and founder, Allison Winters with Indigo Shire’s Mayor Sophie Price and chief executive officer Trevor Ierino at last week’s IDAHOBIT event at Beechworth’s historic courthouse.

PHOTOS: Coral Cooksley

The young musician sang a song she wrote as a strong message of protest against discrimination titled ‘Black and White’.

She said events such as Drag’d Out Beechworth and last week’s IDAHOBIT event in the town helped celebrate diversity working towards a safer and happier local community.

Cr Price with Mieke raised the rainbow flag.

Indigo Shire Council - declining service levels

INDIGO Community Voice is raising its initial concerns about Indigo Shire Council’s 2024/25 draft budget and longterm plan.

A significant reduction in renewal of core community assets has been slated by council for the next 10 years.

Key findings include a substantial underfunding for renewing vital community assets, community service levels are expected to remain low for the next 10 years and current and past expansionary program has set the stage for future rate rises.

The proposed 2024/25 budget reveals a significant drop of 56 per cent in funding to renew council’s assets valued at over $321 million.

For the next 10 years, the annual average shortfall for each year is 34 per cent, according to council’s long-term plan.

Community dissatisfaction with service levels over the past five years has been an ongoing concern, and the situation is expected to deteriorate even further following the proposed reduction in funds.

Critical infrastructure like roads, footpaths, drainage and flood mitigation works will be underfunded by council as identified by the renewal gap, which is only at 66 per cent of that required, which should be a concern for the Indigo community.

Reactive daily maintenance and repair costs will increase, further straining ratepayer funds, not to mention the backlog of worn-out assets that will inevitably grow, leading to further pressure on declining service levels.

Indigo Council has been on a multimillion-dollar expansion program through public tax funded grants, creating nonessential assets.

Ultimately this creates an ongoing debt legacy for rate payers for projects that the community have not seen as a priority, as demonstrated by past budget submissions over the last 3 years.

Indigo Community Voice encourages the community to raise their concerns and provide feedback to Indigo Shire Council on the draft budget by June 4.

EXTRA SKILLS: Callum Clegg (left) is excited to host his own author event with ‘Set Your Own Pace’ founder Sarah Lockwood.

or by whoever is in charge, but they have so much potential,” she said.

“We have so much fun, I have a job that I love going to and is so rewarding seeing a participant’s development.

“I think Callum will use skills learned way beyond this workshop.”

Callum’s author event hosted by ‘Set Your Own Pace’ runs between 10.30am to 11.30am on June 23 at BSC.

Workshops run every Sunday during school term.

For more information about the program contact Sarah at setyourownpace@ outlook.com.

Charles Mitchell, Indigo Community Voice

SPECIAL SONG: Beechworth’s Mieke Bosland sang her composition of ‘Black and White’ following her talk.

SUPPORT: Indigo Shire mayor Sophie Price spoke about council initiatives to support inclusion and celebrate diversity.

Call goes out for more volunteers

By JORDAN DUURSMA

NATIONAL Volunteer Week highlights the vital role volunteers play in our community.

Volunteer contributions have helped Pangerang Community Hub in Wangaratta work with and support vulnerable community members over the past 30 years.

The organisation works towards its vision of ‘connected people, strong communities’ by providing welcoming opportunities for people to connect, create and learn.

Executive officer, Tennille Hall, said volunteering is so rewarding, and that noone has gotten through life without some form of support.

“Whether it’s having a junior sports coach as a child or a cooked meal during difficult times, it’s nice to pay that forward,” she said.

“People supporting each other is essentially what shapes a community.

“It’s a great way to get out and about, meet new people, help support someone else, learn a new skill or share a skill.

“There’s a volunteering role for everyone and we try to match people up with the right role for them.”

Pangerang Community Hub offers both free and low cost activities, programs and workshops which provide opportunities for social connection, acquiring new skills and support good physical and mental health and wellbeing.

It is based in Ovens Street and also operates through various locations via its mobile hub visiting townships and engaging with groups, clubs and schools in outlying areas.

Pangerang Community Hub runs on a small budget with low numbers of paid staff, relying heavily on grants and generous time given by volunteers.

“The new mobile hub has been a great addition to the service we can provide to communities, particularly supporting those that find travelling to Wangaratta for these activities difficult due to mobility, access or affordability,” Ms Hall said.

“Having volunteers from these townships supporting the mobile hub when it’s visiting, be it in helping with set up, cooking a barbecue or even sharing a skill with the community, significantly helps us to continue these visits to outlying communities.

“It’s also a great way for new people to these towns to meet other people and

become a part of their community.”

Volunteer opportunities include childcare, administration, tutoring and gardening.

Volunteers come to Pangerang Community Hub from varied backgroundspeople with skills and training, people looking to develop skills and people with disability.

Some roles may require a specific skillset, but most roles do not.

“Volunteers not only support our activities but they make a real difference to the lives of many of our vulnerable community members,” Ms Hall said.

“Our volunteers will develop great skills, improve the lives of people they work with and get heaps of support and encouragement while doing so.

“We really value our volunteers and are working to further strengthen and expand our volunteer management so that we may be able to also assist other community groups in the region with attracting and supporting their volunteers.

“We would just love for people to give us a call or pop in for a chat.

“We have a great volunteer info booklet we can share and chat more about the needs of the organisa-

tion and the desires of the volunteer.

“I think one hesitation is often people not wanting to commit to regular work, or too many hours, but we can definitely work around individual needs and we really want people to know that even just the smallest amount is still a great help to us.

“We have lots of exciting things coming up and we’d love people to be a part of that.”

To learn more about Pangerang Community Hub visit https://pangerang.org. au/ or call 03 5721 3813.

Vital Federal funding for local volunteer community groups

By CORAL COOKSLEY

TWO Indigo Shire volunteer organisations are among 20 others across the North East to have shared in a pool of $66,225 in federal grant funding.

Announced last Thursday by Independent Federal Member for Indi Helen Haines, Beechworth Wildlife Shelter received $2138 while Yackandandah Fire Brigade received $3300.

Dr Haines said the Volunteer Grants program delivered grants between $1000 to $5000 to support grassroots community groups to increase participation and accessibility of volunteering across Indi.

The program assists organisations to pay for fuel, transport and training costs for volunteers, and purchase small equipment that makes

volunteering enjoyable and accessible to the community.

With the funding, Beechworth Wildlife Shelter will buy wheelbarrows, rakes, shovels, gloves, petrol vouchers, first aid kit and a snake bag while Yackandandah Fire Brigade’s grant will purchase first aid training.

Dr Haines said many extraordinary volunteers across Indi worked tirelessly to make their communities safe, vibrant and fun places to live.

“These grants will go a long way in assisting volunteers to continue their vital work in supporting our communities,” she said.

“They will help to make volunteering more accessible and engage vulnerable people with the opportunity to connect with like-minded people and give back to our community.”

“Volunteering exemplifies community spirit – it is a wonderful way for people to give back to their community, to feel enormous pride, to increase social connections and participation in physical activity.

“Community spirit is something I see right across Indi – a positive community-first mindset that I am proud to represent.

“I am delighted to be able to support and celebrate volunteers who generously share their time and talents to help make our communities the best they can be.”

Successful recipients included a variety of community groups from across the electorate in Wangaratta,

well as

Health.

Tolmie, Mansfield, Corryong, Benalla, Albury-Wodonga, Kings Lake Ranges, Alexandra as

Euroa

COMMUNITY SPIRIT: Kayla Schultz, Hannah Robinson, Lastari Duggan, Tennille Hall, Montana Lloyd, Charley Hall, Emma Gerrett are part of the team assisting vulnerable people in Wangaratta.

ALL ARE WELCOME: Executive officer, Tennille Hall, encourages everyone to volunteer, even the smallest amount will make a difference.

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES: Pangerang Community Hub has a diverse range of volunteering opportunities to suit people’s busy lives.

Cat lovers learn more about new curfew laws

By CORAL COOKSLEY

AN INFORMATIVE session on containment with the new 24/7 cat curfew laws had the ears of a feline lovers earlier this month.

Hosted by Beechworth

Urban Landcare and Sustainability (BULS) at the Quercus Oregon Hall, the meeting delivered talks by guest speakers about cat impacts on the environment and biodiversity.

Talks also included animal behaviour with cats needs in a contained environment along with cat enclosure design and construction to help community member adjust to new 24/7 cat curfew laws introduced by Indigo Shire Council on May 1.

BULS member and local veterinarian Dr Helen Robinson said people had become more aware why they loved their cats while they learned how life can be made better for the animals.

“They gained a better understanding of the nature of cats as well as interaction between cats and people,” she said.

“I think everyone took away something different, but I think they will have been inspired to create more of a shared living space and adventure playground for their cats.”

Dr Robinson said cat enclosures can improve a cat’s long-term health.

“They’re not exposed to

ENGAGED: Locals listened to guest speakers at info session on the cat curfew hosted by BULS earlier this month.

such things as infectious disease, trauma from road accidents, snakes, and bites from other cats that cause abscesses,” she said.

“Potentially enclosure would increase their longevity as long as stress is managed.”

Guest speaker Dee Nuttall from a Castlemainebased cat containment business, said she had already constructed enclosures for some people in Beechworth.

Ms Nuttall said she had been excited to return to

PHOTO: Coral Cooksley.

see transformed spaces.

“I’m really passionate about creating shared spaces for people and cats to enjoy,” she said.

“I hope people were inspired by the session and understand some of the benefits of why enclosing your cats is important.

“I think it’s healthy for people and pets to have outdoor time and enjoy that time together.”

Visits had been arranged to five homes including one rental property where pet owners had created cat enclosures.

Support Shelly Hanley’s fundraiser

By STEVE KELLY

A FUNDRAISER for the daughter of Wangaratta locals Russell and Jacqueline Wallace, Shelly Hanley, will be held in Beechworth this Sunday so she can access cancer treatment in the United States.

The community is welcome to attend the event at Beechworth’s Hiberian

Hotel starting at 2pm and an auction to raise money for Shelly’s cause will be held.

She’s now 39 and has lived in Brisbane with her husband Ben and two sons for the past 10 years.

Shelly was diagnosed with stage four terminal intrahapetic cholangiocarcinoma that has metastised to her liver.

Unfortunately, there are

no targetable treatment options for Shelly that are available to her in Australia, however, there are some trials overseas that could potentially save her life.

To donate to Shelly’s gofundme campaign so she can seek further treatment visit https://www.gofundme. com/f/help-shelly-fight-herbattle-with-cancer

A health specialist

LIZ Ibrom was born in Beechworth and went to school in the town.

When 17-years-old she left for university and didn’t return home until 30 years later.

“I like to say I took the long way home, I live here now and don’t plan to move away again,” she said.

What do you do workwise?

For many years I was an intensive care nurse and then ventured into education, project management and middle management.

Recently I had been working in the quality and safety role here at Beechworth Health Service and have now taken on the role of acting director of Clinical Services.

It’s what’s known as going to the dark side in the nursing world.

What brought you to your role/career?

I knew I wanted to be a nurse from my early teenage years.

My mum spent a lot of time in hospital and I used to sit and watch the nurses rush around the wards providing care.

I’m not sure whether it was the smell of antiseptic or clang of bed pans but I knew it was for me.

What do you love about your work?

I love working at Beechworth Health Service.

The hospital is very important to the community, which is also my community, so it’s very rewarding for me to be part of the team that can deliver care and support for the people who live here.

What do you do in the community?

I don’t volunteer yet, but I am a big supporter of the volunteers who come into Beechworth Health Service.

They are highly valued and an essential part of our team.

We are fortunate to have a dedicated and caring group of people visit our aged care unit.

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

The lack of affordable housing and rental properties in Beechworth.

Although not unique to Beechworth, it’s very worrying for businesses and services who need staff as there is nowhere for them to live. Established families at the end of their lease have had to move out of town or even worse face homelessness.

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

Apart from the housing crisis, I think the excessive use of plastics, pollution and bulging landfills have become unsustainable and I wonder what the world will look in the future?

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 like to bring back someone from the past such as a founding member of Beechworth and show them that buildings constructed are still here, still beautiful and when we are gone will still stand.

I think they would also enjoy a nice beverage from one of our local breweries or wineries. They just don’t make them like they used to.

What book are you reading?

‘It Ends with Us’ by Colleen Hoover.

Perfect holiday reading for when you’re not ready for a Pulitzer.

CARING: Beechworth’s Liz Ibrom loves working at Beechworth Health Service with a rewarding role as part of the team.

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Bethanga success for Beechworth golfers

By DYLAN POOL

UNFORTUNATELY

there was no competition golf at Beechworth on either Wednesday last week due to school cross country or on Sunday due members travelling to Bethanga for their annual tournament.

The club however had a few winners at Bethanga.

Darren Edwards won the tournament for a second year in a row with a two over score of 74.

Josh Carr pipped Dylan Pool for runner up on a countback one shot behind with 75.

Andy Croome was the other big winner, coming runner up in the B grade scratch and taking home the meat tray in the raffle.

This coming Sunday there is a contingent of members heading to Tarrawingee for the Nedga Sandgreen Championships.

For those not heading to Tarrawingee, there will be a Stableford event at Beechworth.

Arrive at 11:30am for 12pm hit-off.

BETHANGA BEAUTY: Josh Carr (pictured)was the A grade runner up in the Bethanga annual tournament, coming second to winner and fellow Beechworth golfer Darren Edwards by a shot.

LUCKY DAY: Along with winning the B grade scratch runner up in Bethanga last week, Andy Croome (pictured) also took home the meat tray in the raffle.

Bushies’ rally late

■ From back page

Brad Fendyk led allcomers in front of goal and kicked four while Dylan Pritchard kicked a handy three goals.

Bulldogs skipper Tom Rake led his team from the front with three goals, while midfielders Lincoln Hardy and Tyson Neander alongside makeshift ruckman Blair Osmond were in the thick of the action for the Bulldogs and creating plenty of scoring opportunities.

Cartledge said as sore bodies begin to mount approaching the midseason break, he has made a concerted effort in recent weeks to ensure his side doesn’t become complacent in their winning ways.

“We’ve had a couple of hard weeks of footy and it’s a tough time of the year, we’ve had a reasonable start but you’ve still got to maintain that ability to get up and about each week,” he said.

“It might sound funny since we’ve been rolling along with momentum, but we’ve still got sore bodies, still fighting fatigue and trying to balance the side each week.

“I try to set new internal

challenges for the group each week whether that’s game KPIs or a mindset people might respond to.

“The coach spewing out the same material each week can get a bit old so you’ve got to try to keep it fresh and invigorating.”

The league leaders will return home to host Barnawartha tomorrow, who took the challenge right up to third-placed Yackandandah last week and led at half-time.

Cartledge said his team would be wary of the threat the Tigers pose, who sit just outside of finals on the ladder through seven games.

“We’ll certainly have to start well and make sure we’re well and truly in the game the whole time, we won’t be able to afford any lapses that’s for sure,” he said.

“We’ve got a couple who will be out just with some niggles that have been hanging around for a little while, which should help them recover from those little injuries.”

Across the other side of the fence, Thurgoona proved too good for Beechworth’s A grade to the tune of 30-64, while success was found in both under 17s netball and football teams.

TRACK DAYS

DOWN THE LINE: Brad Fendyk continued his goal-kicking form last week with four goals in Thurgoona.

GRIND OUT A GRITTY 23-POINT WIN OVER THURGOONA

Bushies’ rally late

A FIVE goal to two final quarter set up a crucial 23-point Beechworh win over a hungry Thurgoona. The Bushrangers led by three points going into the last quarter, as a much-improved Bulldogs outfit from last season gave the ladder leaders a run for their money.

BY BAILEY ZIMMERMANN bzimmermann@ nemedia.com.au

But early inaccuracy in front of goal would come back to bite the Dogs, who fell 7.13 (55) to 11.12 (78) at Thurgoona Oval.

Beechworth coach Tom Cartledge said the team’s youth and ability to run out games throughout the season has become a strength of the side, and was key to their ability to grind out last week’s win.

“Our general match fitness is really good and because

we’ve got a good spread of young guys who are all really fit and strong, we’re sticking to our game style for four quarters,” he said.

“We’re not trying to change gears or mentally or trying to think about doing something different, we’re sticking to what we know

and it’s working for us.”

The Dogs came out of the gates the better side, but struggled to translate their dominance on the scoreboard, kicking 2.5 in the first quarter to lead by nine points.

Inaccuracy would again haunt the home side in the third quarter, kicking just

1.4 to trail at the last break. Willem Love continued his rise this season in the midfield to be named as Beechworth’s best, and he was well-supported in the Bushrangers’ young ranks by Clancy Ellett, Kane Scott and Lukas Jakobsson.

■ Continued page 7

TAKING IT ON:

Cam Fendyk tries to burst through a tackle as Beechworth hung on for a gritty 23-point win in Thurgoona last week.

Call goes out for more volunteers

◆ VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES:

Pangerang Community Hub has a diverse range of volunteering opportunities to suit people’s busy lives.

NATIONAL Volunteer Week highlights the vital role volunteers play in our community.

Volunteer contributions have helped Pangerang Community Hub in Wangaratta work with and support vulnerable community members over the past 30 years.

The organisation works towards its vision of ‘connected people, strong communities’ by providing welcoming opportunities for people to connect, create and learn.

Executive officer, Tennille Hall, said vol-

By JORDAN DUURSMA

unteering is so rewarding, and that no-one has gotten through life without some form of support.

“Whether it’s having a junior sports coach as a child or a cooked meal during difficult times, it’s nice to pay that forward,” she said.

“People supporting each other is essentially

what shapes a community.

“It’s a great way to get out and about, meet new people, help support someone else, learn a new skill or share a skill.

“There’s a volunteering role for everyone and we try to match people up with the right role for them.”

Pangerang Community Hub offers both free and low cost activities, programs and workshops which provide opportunities for social connection, acquiring new skills and

support good physical and mental health and wellbeing.

It is based in Ovens Street and also operates through various locations via its mobile hub visiting townships and engaging with groups, clubs and schools in outlying areas.

Pangerang Community Hub runs on a small budget with low numbers of paid staff relying heavily on grants and generous time given by volunteers.

■ Continued page 6

◆ ALL ARE WELCOME: Executive officer, Tennille Hall, encourages everyone to volunteer, even the smallest amount will make a difference.

VET CORNER

Are your animals included in your emergency survival plan?

EMERGENCY planning for pets is an important part of emergency household preparations and greatly increases the likelihood of evacuating your pets to safety, if that is sadly necessary.

As well as being prepared for the need to evacuate, you should also be prepared if you need to shelter in place (if it’s safe to stay at home but you cannot leave as travel is unsafe or not possible and services like running water and electricity are unavailable).

It’s crucial to be prepared by having a pet emergency plan for your companion animals.

Here are three steps to get you started.

1. Include companion animals in your Emergency Survival Plan.

This should include: determining where your companion animals will be relocated to if you need to evacuate; getting your pet accustomed to the car, crate, or cage; organising emergency contacts; up-to-date vaccinations and certificates; and making sure your pet is microchipped and has an ID tag (and registration) and that your contact details on the microchip register are current.

2. Prepare your Pet Emergency Kit.

Preparing a pet emergency kit is an essential part of your planning process.

It will ensure that you have everything you need to be able to activate your plan quickly.

The kit should include important documentation, transportation and safety equipment, sanitation supplies, identification (microchip and registration) details, food and water, veterinary/medical supplies (including a pet first aid kit), blankets, bedding/nesting material, and toys.

3. Practice your Survival Plan.

Practising your emergency survival plan is a vital part of your preparation.

Practice will help you to refine your plan and help to prevent panic in the event of a real emergency.

with RSPCA - kb.rspca.org.au

Late evacuation can be dangerous.

To avoid unnecessary risks to you and your companion animals, if you know an evacuation order could occur in the near future, move your pets to a safe place as soon as possible.

It’s important to stay informed.

Being aware of your situation allows you to make informed decisions about your safety and the safety of your pets and family and greatly increases the likelihood of you evacuating safely.

For more information visit the RSPCA Knowledgebase at https://kb.rspca.org. au/knowledge-base/what-preparationsshould-i-make-for-my-pets-in-case-of-anemergency/.

This Day in History, 1882

BENALLA FIRE BRIGADE

THE Benalla Fire Brigade stepped out in their new uniforms - navy blue Garibaldi stylejacket trimmed with yellow and a cap to match.

The construction of a reticulated water supply in the town made possible the establishment of an effective fire brigade service.

GONE FISHING

Low flows make trout fishing hard, but natives still biting

THE dry weather continues and is starting to create a few concerns.

My first concern is to do with trout spawning.

In some rivers/creeks trout are currently unable to swim upstream to spawn due to low water flows.

This will limit the amount of natural recruitment that will occur in streams this year.

There will be successful trout spawning, but it will be quite limited compared to recent years.

Some waterways such as sections of the Rose River have completely stopped flowing and been reduced to a series of pools.

I fished for trout in two different tributaries of the Ovens River last week.

In both creeks the water

cess in Wangaratta this week, just fishing with bait in the Ovens River.

In two trips I have managed to catch a total of one Murray cod, two trout cod, three yellowbelly, one carp and two crayfish.

was very low and gin clear.

Despite seeing a small number of trout I was not able to catch any.

I could not even get them to follow my lures.

If you are planning on going trout fishing before the season closes next month my advice would be to stick to the larger rivers such as the Ovens, Upper King, Kiewa and Mitta Mitta.

I have had some fishing suc-

The crayfish were both caught on cheese that was intended for Murray cod. Both crayfish were returned to the water as the season is still closed. They were both a little bit undersized anyway.

This is a good sign for the new crayfishing season which opens on June 1. Of the above mentioned finned fish, the Murray cod was caught using cheese as bait, and everything else was caught on worms with sunset being the best time.

◆ HUNGRY: A small trout cod caught on worms in the Ovens River in Wangaratta one evening last week. Trout cod, sometimes called “Bluenose” are an endangered native fish and are totally protected which means they must always be released if caught.

with Rob Alexander WANGARATTA

Materials and products to choose to save money on bills

DOES this sound like you?

Spring and autumn are you favourite months because your house is perfectly comfortable.

You’re not so keen on winter because you’re living in an Oodie and constantly stoking the fire or running heaters to keep the chill at bay.

Perhaps you’re like my husband who bought an ‘I hate summer’ t-shirt to share with the world how he feels about living in a summer sauna and paying a fortune to run the airconditioner 24-7.

If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone.

According to Cold Hard Facts (2021), 25 per cent of electricity produced in Australia is used to heat and cool our homes.

Most homes were built before energy standards were created, meaning they rate poorly on energy performance and require significant mechanical heating and cooling inputs to be comfortable, making a typical home expensive to inhabit.

As energy bills are the third highest cause of household bill stress, second only to housing and grocery expenses, it makes sense that we understand how to improve the energy performance of our homes to reduce costs.

There are three overarching strategies to improving energy performance which I have described below in priority order: create a high-performance building envelope, electrify everything and offset.

And whilst this may sound like a lot, I want to paint the full picture for you, so you can make informed decisions when tackling renovation projects and buying new appliances.

1. Create a high-performance building envelope to reduce the need for mechanical heating and cooling inputs which typically accounts for 40 per cent home energy consumption.

This can be achieved by sealing up the drafts with tape, installing polyester under-floor, wall and roof insulation, and replacing old doors and windows with double-glazed thermal break aluminium or solid timber framed units.

Ensure that glazing is shaded to prevent direct summer sun sizzling the interior and if replacing cladding or roofing, select lighter colours as dark colours absorb heat.

2. Electrify everything by converting to all electric appliances so that your energy usage can be powered by solar,

◆ RENNOVATIONS: There are materials you can use to save money on bills in your home.

a renewable resource.

Electric heat pump hot water services offer an energy efficient alternative to a traditional gas units and induction cooktops are a great replacement for traditional gas burner units.

Ducted split systems and heat exchangers provide costeffective solutions for mechanical heating and cooling.

3. Offset your reduced energy usage by installing rooftop solar panels.

We recommend future proofing your solar installation to take a battery, because when they become more affordable, which they will, you can live energy bill free.

For more advice or help with your building needs contact us on 0408 300 106 or email kim@chaulk.com.au.

◆ ENERGY UPGRADES: Kim Mickelburough

◆ INSULATED ROOMS: Kim Mickelburough creates rooms that are energy efficient and keep the heat inside with salvages brick.

with Kim Mickelburough CHAULK STUDIO RENNOVATIONS

Call goes out for more volunteers

■ From page 1

“The new mobile hub has been a great addition to the service we can provide to communities, particularly supporting those that find travelling to Wangaratta for these activities difficult due to mobility, access or affordability,” Ms Hall said.

“Having volunteers from these townships supporting the mobile hub when it’s visiting, be it in helping with set up, cooking a barbecue or even sharing a skill with the community, significantly helps us to continue these visits to outlying communities.

“It’s also a great way for new people to these towns to meet other people and become a part of their community.”

Volunteer opportunities include childcare, administration, tutoring and gardening.

Volunteers come to Pangerang Community Hub from varied backgrounds - people with skills and training, people looking to develop skills and

people with disability.

Some roles may require a specific skillset, but most roles do not.

“Volunteers not only support our activities but they make a real difference to the lives of many of our vulnerable community members,” Ms Hall said.

“Our volunteers will develop great skills, improve the lives of people they work with and get heaps of support and encouragement while doing so.

“We really value our volunteers and are working to further strengthen and expand our volunteer management so that we may be able to also assist other community groups in the region with attracting and supporting their volunteers.

“We would just love for people to give us a call or pop in for a chat.

“We have a great volunteer info booklet we can share and chat more about the needs of the organisation and the de-

FEATURE STORY

sires of the volunteer.

“I think one hesitation is often people not wanting to commit to regular work, or too many hours, but we can definitely work around individual needs and we really want people to know that even just the smallest amount is still a great help to us.

“We have lots of exciting things coming up and we’d love people to be a part of that.”

To learn more about Pangerang Community Hub visit https://pangerang.org.au/ or call 03 5721 3813. dition to the service we can provide to communities, particularly supporting those that find travelling to Wangaratta for these activities difficult due to mobility, access or affordability,” Ms Hall said.

“Having volunteers from these townships supporting the mobile

hub when it’s visiting, be it in helping with set up, cooking a barbecue or even sharing a skill with the community, significantly helps us to continue these visits to outlying communities.

“It’s also a great way for new people to these towns to meet other people and become a part of their community.”

Volunteer opportunities include childcare, administration, tutoring and gardening.

Volunteers come to Pangerang Community Hub from varied backgrounds - people with skills and training, people looking to develop skills and people with disability.

Some roles may require a specific skillset, but most roles do not.

“Volunteers not only support our activities but they make a real difference to the lives of many of our vulnerable community members,” Ms Hall said.

“Our volunteers will develop great skills, improve the lives of

people they work with and get heaps of support and encouragement while doing so.

“We really value our volunteers and are working to further strengthen and expand our volunteer management so that we may be able to also assist other community groups in the region with attracting and supporting their volunteers.

“We would just love for people to give us a call or pop in for a chat.

“I think one hesitation is often people not wanting to commit to regular work, or too many hours, but we can definitely work around individual needs and we really want people to know that even just the smallest amount is still a great help to us.

“We have lots of exciting things coming up and we’d love people to be a part of that.”

To learn more about Pangerang Community Hub visit https://pangerang.org.au/ or call 03 5721 3813.

◆ COMMUNITY SPIRIT: Kayla Schultz, Hannah Robinson, Lastari Duggan, Tennille Hall, Montana Lloyd, Charley Hall, Emma Gerrett are part of the team assisting vulnerable people in Wangaratta.

NorthEast JOBS

book your ad, call

Journalist

Career Opportunity

Full Time

North East Media, an award-winning publisher of community newspapers, has a full time position for a graded journalist based in our Myrtleford office in North East Victoria.

We are seeking a journalist with previous country newspaper experience to produce our weekly Myrtleford Times and Alpine Observer, servicing the picturesque Alpine Shire communities of Myrtleford, Bright and Mt Beauty.

The position requires a journalist with a strong work ethic and well-rounded skill set, who has a passion for community newspapers and a real desire to work with volunteer contributors.

Excellent writing, editing, photographic, communication, time management and organisational skills, and the ability to generate ideas into relevant news coverage that matters most to a local readership, will be among your strongest attributes.

The ability to use social media and deliver high quality work under deadline pressure are also a must.

The successful applicant must also have a valid driver’s licence.

North East Media is an independent media group publishing award winning publications in print and online across North East Victoria and beyond. Applications, including covering letter and resume, should be forwarded to:

GREAT JOBS FOR GREAT PEOPLE

The following opportunities now exist for enthusiastic, safety focused people with suitable experience and

Please visit our website to find out more about current positions available across Mawsons business divisions.

Wangaratta Vic – Concrete Truck Driver – WANG002

Broken Hill NSW – Quarry Operator – BROQ002

Berrigan NSW – Weighbridge Clerk – FUZQ004

Jeff Zeuschner Group Editor North East Media jzeuschner@nemedia.com.au www.mawsons.com.au/careers/join-us

Health benefits of cruciferous vegetables

THE chilly autumn air is here, and with that comes slow cooked meals, hearty root vegetables and more cruciferous vegetables.

Cruciferous or brassica veggies belong to the cruciferae family, and it has over 4000 plant species.

Some of the cruciferous veggies we commonly consume include broccoli, brussels sprouts, cabbage, kale, bok choy, rocket, cress, cauliflower, horseradish and turnips.

And they are incredibly healthy foods and very versatile in the kitchen.

Some of the health benefits of brassica’s include reducing your risk of heart disease, cancer, inflammation and oxidative stress.

These are a high priority in preventative medicine that we use in clinic regularly.

The issue that is often sprouted by social media influences with consuming these veggies is that it can potentially lead to a reduction in iodine absorption, leading to thyroid issues.

Weird right, consuming a healthy food can lead to a disease state that affects your metabolism, bowel, nervous system etc.

Well, here is the fine print…this commonly happens when you’re already deficient in iodine, and when they are consumed in their raw state and in large amounts.

Other contributing factors include when the food is not chewed well/ broken down, uncooked, fermented or digested adequately.

So next time you are

YOUR HEALTH

watching the next influencer talking about a solitude food/nutrient or molecule to treat a certain disease, stop and think: is eating a whole bunch of celery a day healthy?

Is consuming handfuls of raw kale daily giving you the diverse amount of nutrients that your body

needs to function?

Is too much of a single food/veg/fruit a good thing for you?

I would argue, yes.

If you are stuck and need help with menu planning or further advice, we are qualified and here to help. Follow us on social media for more information.

Due diligence essential before buying a business

WHEN it comes to buying a business, the adage “look before you leap” has never been more pertinent.

Due diligence is the bedrock upon which successful business acquisitions are built, serving as a comprehensive appraisal of a business’s performance, legal standing, financial health and more.

This process helps potential buyers in Australia make informed decisions, ensuring that what you see is indeed what you get.

But it can also be a solid springboard into early and sustained success.

Understanding due diligence

Due diligence is a multifaceted process that involves scrutinising a range of elements related to the business in question.

This process helps identify potential red flags, assesses the business’s true value, and ensures that the investment aligns with your goals and risk tolerance.

What are the various kinds of due diligence, and why should I do due diligence at all?

There are many aspects to think about including legal, financial and operational considerations.

It’s important to understand the legal framework of a business, the contracts and agreements and ownership of intellectual property to ensure everything abides by the legal regulations.

It is also crucial to examine financial statements, assess the value of assets and understand the businesses liabilities.

You will also need to evaluate the best business model for sustainability, your team structure with employees, environmental compliance and consider industry specific risks.

Some other final considerations include negotiating deals for your business and creating a smooth post-purchase transition.

◆ DUE DILIGENCE: Due Diligence can help ensure your businesses success.

with Jonathan Green JONATHAN GREEN LEGAL

◆ HEALTHY VEGGIES: Cruciferous vegetables are great for your health.

with Belinda McPherson NORTH EAST NATURAL HEALTH