BRIGHT local, Joshua Kusch will be challenging his physical and mental capacity, competing in the Spartan Race for the first time later this month.
The Spartan Race is a global obstacle course race series that tests strength, balance, and endurance, catering for both newbies as well as veteran racers.
The races feature custom-built obstacles,
By JORDAN DUURSMA
such as walls, pipes, ropes, and monkey bars.
Participants can sign up for a range of events from 5km to 35km.
For Joshua, the last weekend of Febru-
ary will be a test of his abilities in the 5km sprint event.
Josh said he started on this journey with some encouragement from his friend Matthew who is a personal trainer.
“It’s definitely not something I would have even considered in the past but he challenged me to do it and we’ve been training together to prepare for the race,” he said.
◆ THE ULTIMATE
and
“I want to see if I can do it and get up to the fitness level of that standard, each day we train, I’ve been pushing myself a little further.”
The 30-year-old said this experience will push him both physically and mentally.
“I’ll be super disappointed in myself if I don’t get through it,” he said.
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CHALLENGE: Joshua Kusch will test his physical
mental abilities later this month, entering his first ever Spartan Race in his hometown.
How to treat mites in a chicken coop: a guide
RECENTLY, I’ve had numerous clients come into the clinic asking about how to control mite infestations in their small flocks, so I thought it would be helpful to create a guide on the topic.
Mites are tiny pests that can cause serious problems for your chickens, including blood loss, feather loss, and a decrease in egg production.
If left untreated, mites can make your chickens sick and stressed.
Common Types of Mites
1. Northern Fowl Mite: This mite stays on the chickens, especially around the vent and wings.
2. Red Mite: These mites live in the cracks of the coop and come out at night to feed on chickens.
3. Scaly Leg Mite: These mites affect chickens’ legs and feet, causing scaly, thickened skin.
Signs of Mite Infestation
• Feather loss, especially around the vent and wings
• Scratching and itching
• Pale combs and wattles
• Restlessness at night
• Reduced egg production
• Visible mites on the chickens
Steps to Treat Mites
1. Isolate Affected Chickens
If only a few chickens are affected, isolate them to prevent the mites from spreading to the rest of the flock.
2. Clean the Coop
• Remove bedding: Take out all bedding material and dispose of it.
• Clean surfaces: Scrub down the coop, paying attention to cracks and crevices
By DR MONICA KUNZE BSC. DVM WARBY STREET VETERINARY HOSPITAL
where mites may hide.
• Disinfect: Use a safe disinfectant to kill any remaining mites.
3. Treat Your Chickens
• Diatomaceous Earth (DE): Dust your chickens with food-grade DE. It dehydrates and kills the mites.
• Mite Powders: You can also use a commercial mite powder, like permethrin, to treat your chickens.
• Acaricides: If the infestation is severe, use a veterinary-approved acaricide (pesticide for mites).
• Bathing: Bathing chickens in warm, soapy water can help, followed by applying DE or another treatment.
4. Treat the Coop Regularly
• Clean the coop often and reapply mite treatments as needed.
5. Monitor Your Flock
Keep an eye on your chickens for any signs of ongoing mite problems.
Preventing Future Mite Infestations
• Regular cleaning: Clean the coop weekly to keep mites from building up.
• Deep cleaning: Do a thorough cleaning every few months, especially in warmer months when mites are more active.
• Dust baths: Allow chickens to take dust baths, which can help control external parasites naturally.
• Quarantine new chickens: Keep new chickens isolated for a few weeks before adding them to the flock to prevent spreading mites.
A KILLER BUSHFIRE, 1952
ANOTHER serious fire which caused loss of life broke out on this day, a few days after the Barnawartha fire.
Fire raged over a wide area in the Lurg, Greta, Hansonville, Moyhu, and Molyullah districts, resulting in two deaths, and the destruction of twenty-nine homes, three churches, one hall, and a post o ce.
INFORMED CHOICES: Reach out to Timeless Support or consult a financial advisor who specialises in aged care to ensure you make informed decisions tailored to your specific situation.
A guide to navigating the Australian aged care system
AS Australia’s population ages, navigating the aged care system is more important than ever. Whether you or a loved one needs support, understanding government-funded programs, eligibility, and financial aspects is crucial.
Understanding the Australian Aged Care System
Australia’s aged care system provides essential services to older Australians through key programs:
• Commonwealth Home Support Program: Provides basic support services to help older Australians remain independent. It is partially governmentfunded.
• Home Care Packages: Tailored support to help individuals maintain independence at home. Timeless Support specializes in these services.
• Residential Aged Care: 24/7 care and accommodation for those requiring intensive support.
• Residential Respite Care: Short-term care in an aged care facility to support caregivers.
• Transition Care: Supports individuals transitioning from hospital to home with additional rehabilitation and care.
Financial Aspects of Aged Care
Aged care costs vary depending on individual circumstances, with government subsidies available to assist with expenses:
• Government Contributions: The government subsidises aged care services, with funding determined by individual needs and financial capacity.
• Income-Tested Fee: Applies to Home Care
Packages and residential aged care, based on income and assets.
• Basic Daily Fee: A universal fee for aged care services. Timeless Support does not charge this fee.
• Additional Fees: Some services may require extra payments based on specific care requirements or preferences.
Transition to the Support at Home Program
From July 1, 2025, Home Care Package (HCP) recipients will transition to the new Support at Home Program, with funding aligned to their existing HCP levels.
A “no worse off ” principle ensures that those receiving or eligible for HCPs as of September 12, 2024 will not pay higher fees than under the current system.
Full-rate pensioners paying no fees under HCPs will continue to pay none under Support at Home.
As we approach July 1, more details will become available. Home Care Package providers should begin notifying recipients of the upcoming changes.
For more details, contact Timeless Support or consult an aged care financial advisor.
Timeless Support has been approved to provide subsidised home care services through the Australian Government. Depending on your circumstances you may be able to receive care and services, funded either fully or partly by the Government. We can support you on your journey.
By MICHELLE AZARIS TIMELESS SUPPORT
Hot and dry conditions, cause for alarm for waterways
THINGS are starting to get a little bit scary for some of our waterways thanks to the ongoing hot and dry conditions.
Some of the waterways that I have enjoyed fishing over the last few years are now very low, and in a couple of cases have totally stopped flowing with the water in the pools turning as black as ink.
While this sounds bad, and is bad, what we need to remember is that we were spoilt with above average rainfall for close to three years and in that time many fish moved around and took up residence in what appeared to be suitable habitat at the time.
Now that we have returned to dry conditions those marginal areas are drying up and will possibly lead to isolated fish kills.
The good news is that we have quite a lot of water in storage with both Lake William Hovell and Lake Bu alo currently sitting well above 90 per cent capacity.
Other lakes in the region are holding up really well too with Lake Hume being the only lake below 50 per cent.
Waterways that are not prone to drying up are still flowing well.
They’re low, but flowing okay.
Last week I fished a stream in the headwa-
ters of the Ovens River where I found some quite good trout fishing.
The stream was low, but flowing OK for this time of the year and the fish were restricted to the deeper pools.
I found that a black bladed spinner worked very well for me.
Thanks to the lakes, the Ovens and King rivers are both flowing well and fishing quite well for Murray cod.
So too are the Broken and Murray rivers thanks to the lakes on those rivers.
The fishing has slowed a little bit with the heat and low water, but there’s still quite a few fish biting.
I have been bait fishing in the Ovens River in Wangaratta twice in recent weeks and have caught a number of small Murray cod, trout cod and Macquarie Perch.
I also caught one carp.
YOUR HEALTH
BE INFORMED AND PROACTIVE: Regular visits to your GP can make all the di erence for early diagnosis, treatments and options.
Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month: let’s talk about it
EVERY February, Australia shines a light on ovarian cancer for Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month.
It’s all about raising awareness, encouraging proactive health checks, and reminding women to listen to their bodies.
What Is Ovarian Cancer?
Ovarian cancer starts in the ovaries, part of the female reproductive system.
The tricky part?
Its symptoms can often be confused with other conditions, making early detection challenging.
Here are some common symptoms to look out for:
• Persistent bloating or stomach discomfort
• Feeling full quickly or changes in appetite
• Needing to pee more often or urgently
• Unexplained fatigue
If you’re noticing these symptoms sticking around, it’s a good idea to chat with your GP to rule out anything serious.
Why Awareness Matters
Spotting ovarian cancer early can make a huge di erence–it often means more treatment options and better outcomes.
Regular check-ups with your GP are key
By TERESA MCMAHON, SOUTH WANGARATTA MEDICAL CENTRE
to catching potential health concerns before they become bigger issues.
The Challenges We Face
Unlike other cancers, ovarian cancer doesn’t have a simple screening test. Tests like Pap smears don’t pick it up. Instead, diagnosis usually relies on blood tests and imaging, so being informed and proactive is vital.
Don’t wait for symptoms to take over. Regular visits to your GP can make all the di erence.
If you’d like to learn more, visit the Ovarian Cancer Australia website or talk with your doctor.
Let’s spread the word, look out for each other, and keep the conversation going.
RAINBOW TROUT: A small rainbow trout caught last week on a black bladed spinner.
with ROBBIE ALEXANDER WANGARATTA
Spartan Race a first for some, a lifestyle for others
“A large part of it is that mental side and just I guess getting over the doubts and pushing it through is key.
“I don’t want to disappoint my mate who’s been trying to train me up but I also want to prove it to myself that I can do it.”
Josh has recently returned from Timor Leste on a teaching appointment where a motorbike accident saw him break his arm.
“The recuperation from the accident has inspired me to try and recover physically and mentally, and this race is the ultimate test of my abilities to see if I will be able to finish,” Josh said.
While this race is a new venture for some, for others like Melanie Stewart hailing from Shepparton, taking part in
these races is a lifestyle.
Over the past six years, Melanie has completed 38 races across the globe and in Bright she will be attempting the Trifecta event, which is three races with a combined distance of 35km and 75 obstacles.
Melanie said her love for the experiences, travel and community are what keeps her motivated during training and the races.
“I enjoy doing it and I love the fact that you become part of the Spartan community, which is a global movement,” she said.
“You meet all these people from all over the world and at each event the same people rock up and we share the experience together.
“They know what you’re doing, they know what you’re go-
ing through, and they understand because they are going through it too.
“You get to be part of the Spartan family.”
The 50-year-old said there are many aspects that go into the races from training styles, di erent terrains and the mental side of things.
“It’s a lifestyle choice,” she said.
“I get up at 3:30am so I train at 4am before going to work.
“ I want to do them as long as I can and I 100 per cent encourage others to give it a go, but fair warning, you may get hooked.”
The 2025 Bright Spartan 2X Trifecta Weekend will be held on February, Saturday 22 and Sunday 23 at Pioneer Park. For more information visit https://www.spartan.com/.
SPARTAN ENTHUSIAST: Melanie Stewart is entering her 39th Spartan Race at the Bright Spartan 2X Trifecta, and encourages others to challenge themselves. Pictured is Melanie completing in the Spartan Race in Fiji.
A pressure washer designed to conquer
By DAVID JAMES NORTH EAST FASTENERS
UNLEASH the cleaning power of the K16255 2400W Electric High-Pressure Washer, designed to conquer even the toughest cleaning tasks.
With an impressive 2800 PSI max pressure and a reliable 1900 PSI rated pressure, it’s built to handle the most challenging cleaning jobs.
The 8.0 LPM maximum flow rate, 2400W power induction motor, and long-lasting aluminium pump ensure superior performance.
This model features an onboard 10m steel-braided pressure hose and reel assembly, o ering extended reach and easy hose management.
The soap dispenser boasts a 1.2L capacity, ensuring efficient soap or detergent application.
Onboard hose and power cable storage maintain a clutter-free workspace.
The integrated inlet filter protects the pump from debris, further enhancing its durability.
What sets this model apart is the stainless steel Quick Connect Lance and all brass fittings on the Quick Connect accessories, guaranteeing long-lasting quality.
Included accessories: variable trigger stainless steel quick connect lance, turbo nozzle, quick connect lance and hose connector adaptor, M22 to 1/4” anti-swivel adaptor kit, M22 karcher accessory adaptor and four quickconnect nozzles:
Red = 0° Pencil Point Stream for High Impact Cleaning
UNLEASH THE CLEAN: Visit North East Fasteners to meet all of your cleaning needs with the K16255 2400W Electric High-Pressure Washer, designed to conquer even the toughest cleaning tasks.
Green = 25° Fan Pattern for Debris Sweeping
White = 40° Fan Pattern for Rinsing Glass, Vehicles, and more.
Black = Chemical Nozzle for applying cleaning detergents.
A Karcher adaptor is also included with every Kincrome pressure washer, allowing users to use their existing Karcher accessories with their
Kincrome washer. Water can only be supplied to the K16255 Pressure Washer via Mains due to its high output. (No bucket drawing or water tanks).
Backed by an impressive five year warranty (three +two years when registered), offering confidence and assurance with your purchase and investment.
Putting your comfort first
FURNISHING a home should be an exciting experience, not a stressful one.
Yet, for many, the thought of lugging heavy furniture, assembling complicated pieces, and disposing of old items can turn the joy of decorating into an overwhelming task.
That’s why we have come up with this promotion, in order to make the entire process seamless, o ering free furniture delivery, free furniture assembly, and free furniture removal.
For many busy people, especially those managing households, careers, and everything in between, convenience is key.
We understand that after choosing the perfect sofa, dining set or bedroom suite, the last thing you want to worry about is how to get it home or how to put it together.
Our team takes care of that for you.
With free delivery, your new furniture arrives at your doorstep without extra cost.
With free assembly, our professionals ensure everything is set up properly, saving you time and frustration.
And with free furniture removal, you won’t have to worry about what to do with your old
pieces - we take care of them responsibly.
Our goal is to make your home transformation smooth and enjoyable.
We don’t just sell furniture - we provide a fullservice experience that puts your comfort first.
Whether you’re upgrading your living space or furnishing a new home, let us handle the heavy lifting so you can focus on what truly matterscreating a home you love.
Because at the end of the day, furniture shopping should be exciting, e ortless and stressfree.
Let us make it easy for you - shop with confidence and leave the rest to us.
MAKE IT EASIER ON YOURSELF: Visit the team at North East Home Makers Centre to make the transition from a house to a home smooth and enjoyable.
