January 15 - 21, 2025
Helping young adults build connections
ISOLATION and loneliness is a reality for many young adults in the local community.
To help tackle this issue, headspace Albury Wodonga and headspace Wangaratta are launching a peer-led social groups initiative help young adults build connections and support one another.
The initiative is supported by grant funds from the Ovens Murray Mental Health Alcohol and Drug Alliance.
Headspace team leader Katie Shalevski said these peer-led social groups are the result of a thoughtful needs analysis, collaboration with
By JORDAN DUURSMA
young people, and feedback from local networks.
“Our research revealed that isolation and loneliness were significant challenges for young people in the Ovens Murray Region,” Katie said.
for a healthy headspace’ principle, we identified that many young people wanted opportunities to connect outdoors, socialise, and enjoy group activities that align with their interests.”
Headspace peer worker Annabelle Cannon said more than 66 per cent of survey respondents expressed a preference for outdoor activities and were keen to help determine the days and times for these gatherings.
fun, flexible, and inclusive groups where young people can meet new people, enjoy shared experiences, and boost their wellbeing - all without pressure or stigma.”
The groups are designed for young people aged 18–25 to build connections, enhance wellbeing, and promote meaningful social interactions.
“Through surveys and discussions with young people, including input from our Youth Reference Group (YRG) and using the ‘7 tips
“The results also highlighted social needs, eating habits, and overall wellbeing were areas in need of support,” they said.
“This feedback shaped our vision to create
The first group will take place on January 31 and will run weekly across the region over the year, with term 1 beginning with outdoor social groups.
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GONE FISHING
VET CORNER YOUR HEALTH BOOK NOOK
COMMUNITY CONNECTION: Headspace’s client liaison o cer Lauren Dinsdale, community awareness and engagement coordinator Lara Taylor and peer worker Annabelle Cannon are part of the team tackling isolation and loneliness among young adults in our community.
with MADDISON
with ROBBIE with CHRISTOS with SIMONE
How to
keep your
dogs safe while they make a splash
IT is important to give your dogs access to plenty of clean, fresh water during hot weather.
But did you know it is possible for them to have too much of a good thing whilst swimming, diving or playing with a sprinkler?
Many owners are completely unaware that dogs can su er water intoxication where their body is overwhelmed by an excessive amount of water intake.
This leads to low sodium in the bloodstream and increase pressure on the brain.
Therefore, this can lead to frightening neurological signs and can even be fatal.
Signs to look out for include lethargy or weakness, nausea or vomiting, bloating, loss of
By Dr MADDISON MCGILL WANGARATTA VETERINARY CLINIC
coordination, falling or seizures.
If you suspect your dog has water intoxication it is important you contact your vet clinic immediately for assessment as timely treatment with specific electrolytes intravenously and medications are crucial for survival.
Dogs at most risk are those active or working dogs (as they tend to enjoy fetch and swimming) and smaller or toy breeds (due to their small body size).
WOORAGEE
Additionally, your dog is at greater risk if their swimming style involves lots of splashing, holding their head low in the water or mouth open.
Fortunately, there are several key prevention strategies you can implement to prevent this.
Firstly, always supervise your dog when swimming or playing with a sprinkler/hose.
Secondly, we recommend taking frequent breaks to allow them to rest and toilet in between sessions.
Finally, if your dog likes fetch, avoid round shape balls or toys, and instead opt for flat objects, like frisbees, which encourage dogs to close their mouth over the object.
228 Edmondson Lane, Wooragee Friday 17th January 2025 Commencing at 9:30am
Farm Machinery:
Ford New Holland 5640, F.W.A 80HP, 3 P/L Burder loader with Forks & Bucket 2914hours. V.G.C, with canopy & ROPs, Runs well; Massey Ferguson 65 (Round bonnet model) 3 P/L With Burder loader, ROPs, 4in1 bucket and runs well; Berends 3 P/L Hay spike; Berends 3 p/l Grader blade with hydraulic angle + tilt (Cat 1 & 2 Linkage); Berends post hole digger; Carryall; 16 plate trailing disc; Eliminator trailing wick wiper; Steel smudge bar; Villers diesel motor pump; 3 P/L spring Tyne scarifier; 3 P/L Ripper; Murray Pasture harrows; Marino back mister; 2 Ambo Irrigator heads; Gallagher M600 Main Energiser NEVER USED.
Spray Equipment & Vehicles:
Silvan 600Ltrs, 3 P/L, PTO, Pasture pack; Mirra ATV Bike Trailer; Trailing round bale feed out trailer; Honda foreman hydrostatic 4x4 motorbike complete with spray rider 80 tank + boom.
Workshop Equipment: Toolex 15S electric compressor & hose; Steek Work benches; Pipe bender; Socket set; Welder; Bench drill.
Sundries: 12ft Dehavaland boat trailer; Garden chipper 5hp; 600Ltr poly trough; Barb Wire; Plain Wire; Steel Post; Poly pipe; Antique barb wire; Cream can + Lid; Husqvarna brush cutter; Steel post lifter; Donalds wire strainers & Hammer handle; Antique leg vice; Electric fence equipment; Luco lamb marker; 4 x pipe poles; 2 x steel trusses; 2 x Davey water pump’s; Honda motor & Davey pump; Pipe fittings; Garden Tools; Hand winches; Fire hose; Wheelbarrow; Cat cage; Tabacco tins; Granite stone blocks . Outside Vendor (NO GST): 10 x mesh sheep yard panels; 10 x steel cattle yard panels (2.4L x 1.5H); 10 x Horse jump frames; 10 x Horse yard panels; 17 x Panel Gal round yard; 10 x 1.4m RHS, 40 x 40 Strainer posts; 2 x 80 x
Sale of quality well kept farming plant, equipment and sundry items. With majority of items sheded. Catering – Local community group.
No loading of goods until auction is finished. Loading of goods available.
Terms: Number System will operate, Photo ID required, cash & cheque on day, EFTPOS available. GST NOT APPLICABLE. Web ID: https://elders.com.au/our-services/buy-and-sell/clearing-sales/clearing-sales-details.s-cs001382/
Elders Albury Stephen Street 0428 579 338
Take a fishing road trip this summer
THERE’S a few redfin biting, but they’re not very big.
Last Wednesday I fished for redfin at Greens Lake, Lake Cooper and the Waranga Basin.
These lakes are west of Shepparton and a little bit out of my readership area, but if you’re looking for a fishing day trip, this is one of my favourites.
I fished Greens Lake first where I caught heaps of small redfin.
I was standing in about three feet of water at the end of the boat ramp casting small soft plastics and bladed spinners, and the redfin were going crazy.
I probably caught 15 or 30, but all were small.
I then headed through the small township of Corop where I turned left and went to Lake Cooper.
It was very windy, and the water was really clear, but I did not get a touch. Absolutely nothing.
From there I headed across to Rushworth to fish the mighty Waranga Basin, one of my favourite fishing spots.
The water level is low so I had to wade out approximately 40 metres from the bank to fish in about one metre of water.
Doing that worked though.
I caught heaps of redfin. I managed to keep three redfin for a feed, two of which required some pretty special skills with my filleting knife.
They were not very big.
Again all of my fish were caught on soft plastics and bladed spinners.
This fishing road trip is an excellent way to spend a summers day and the kids will love it.
The fishing is easy and the water is amazing.
Other than that the Murray cod fishing continues to fire all across North East Victoria.
Many rivers have now dropped to their summer levels and are quite low, and the cod are biting well.
Any waterway that has Murray cod in it is worth fishing at the moment.
TAKE A BREAK: Lexi the Kelpie taking a rest during her swimming session.
SIZEABLE CATCH: A bigger than average Waranga Basin redfin caught last Wednesday on a bladed spinner while wading in about a metre of water.
with ROBBIE ALEXANDER WANGARATTA
Celebrating a sporting icon
By SIMONE KERWIN NORTH EAST MEDIA
CRICKET lovers, and even those with just a passing interest in the game’s long form, were captivated by Australia’s successful Test series against India.
The Aussies claimed victory on day three of the SCG Test this month, and while pink caps were the order of that day as part of fundraising for the McGrath Foundation, the traditional ‘baggy green’ was certainly on full display throughout the series.
From the well-worn headwear of players like captain Pat Cummins, through to the brand-new caps proudly donned by debutantes including Sam Konstas, this part of the Australian playing kit remains held in high esteem.
It’s also the subject of a recently-released tribute book, simply titled ‘The Baggy Green’, and written by one of Australia’s most experienced cricket writers, journalist Mike Coward, and Michael Fahey, a leading authority on sports memorabilia.
Mike Coward has covered the game throughout the world since 1972; formerly chief cricket writer for The Sydney Morning Herald and The Advertiser in Adelaide, he was the cricket columnist for The Australian for 20 years to 2011.
He has also broadcast the game for radio and television; written, ghosted or edited 15 cricket books; and was the interviewer for each of the eight programs in ABC TV’s ‘Cricket History’ series, and for the extensive archive at the Bradman Museum and International Cricket Hall of Fame.
Michael Fahey has been one of the major players in the sports memorabilia scene for much of the past 40 years.
He has been trading and valuing sports memorabilia since 1993, and is now the official valuer to Sports Memorabilia Australia, Rugby Australia Archives, SCG, Bradman and New Zealand Rugby Museums, New Zealand Sports Hall of Fame, and is a Commonwealth Government Cultural Gifts Program approved valuer.
Both know the cultural - and actual - value of the baggy green cap worn by Australian Test players, which has retained its allure through the decades, and as former Aussie captain Mark Taylor says in his introduction, “connects Victor Trumper to Pat Cummins”.
‘The Baggy Green’ charts the evolution of the cap’s tradition, with reflections from a number of past and present Test players, and explores the cap’s history, mystique and worth, with insights from the sport’s greatest figures, museums and leading auction houses.
The baggy green is a ticket to an exclusive national club, and stories of Test cricketers’ attachment to the caps often enter the mainstream news cycle - from Steve Waugh’s devotion to his ragged cap, to David Warner’s appeal last year for his cap, apparently lost in transit on the eve of his final Test at the SCG.
Images of players like Don Bradman, Richie Benaud and Ricky Ponting wearing their baggy greens through the years are etched in the minds of anyone who dwells close to the Australian sporting sphere.
This connection, along with the road to development of a baggy green for Australia’s women’s cricket team amid its desire to play more Tests, is highlighted and celebrated in Fahey and Coward’s book.
There is also a chapter focused on the collectors of memorabilia like the Australian cricket cap, and the reasons for their passion, as well as the collections available in various museums.
A revision and update on the 2008 release of the book, ‘The Baggy Green’ is a must for any curator of a sports library or cricketcentric collection.
* ‘The Baggy Green: The Pride, Passion and History of Australia’s Sporting Icon’ by Michael Fahey and Mike Coward, is published by Gelding Street Press (RRP $34.99).
LONG-HELD TRADITION: The cap worn by Australian Test cricketers is the focus of this book by Mike Coward and Michael Fahey, an update on the 2008 release.
Helping young adults build connections
To ensure accessibility, the locations will alternate between Albury, Wodonga, Wangaratta, and surrounding areas, providing variety and inclusivity for young people across the region.
Term 1 groups are centred around connection and enjoyment, featuring a diverse range of activities such as social picnics in local parks to casually meet and chat, trail walks to explore local nature together, and berry picking and baking, blending fun and creativity.
These activities are designed to be non-therapeutic and focus on shared interests, reducing pressure while encouraging natural social interactions.
“We know that building social connections can be really hard, especially meeting new
people when you’re in your early 20s,” Annabelle said.
“These groups are about creating a safe, supportive space for young people to connect in ways that feel natural and fun - whether that’s through a picnic, a hike, or just hanging out together outdoors.”
The peer-led social groups are open to all young people aged 18–25, regardless of background, gender, or sexual orientation. Importantly, participants do not need to be accessing headspace services to attend.
This open structure aims to remove barriers to ensure everyone feels welcome.
“This initiative is a great example of how we’re listening to the needs of young people and working with them to create something meaningful,”
Katie said.
“We’re excited to see these groups grow into a supportive, inclusive space that celebrates connection and betlonging.”
These weekly gatherings will o er young adults a chance to:
• Connect with peers who share similar interests and challenges.
• Improve wellbeing by engaging in enjoyable activities.
• Experience the outdoors, benefiting mental and physical health.
• Reduce loneliness by building lasting social connections.
Whether it’s “touching grass” in a relaxing picnic setting or hiking alongside new friends, the groups aim to provide a refreshing break from routine and a chance to just
be present with others.
Annabelle said this initiative directly responds to the needs identified through conversations with young people, feedback from the YRG, and insights from local organisations.
“Isolation and loneliness can have a profound impact on mental health, and these groups are part of our commitment to creating inclusive, supportive opportunities for young people in the region,” they said.
To join the groups, keep an eye on headspace’s social media platforms, such as Facebook, where they will share event details and RSVP links.
There is no cost to attend, making it easy for anyone to come along and participate.
Participants must register their attendance, more information call the centre on 1300 322 022.
JOIN IN: Headspace’s client liaison o cer Lauren Dinsdale, community awareness and engagement coordinator Lara Taylor and peer tworker Annabelle Cannon are encouraging anyone aged 18–25 to come along to headspace’s peer-led social groups.
What are your goals for 2025?
AS we step into a new year, it’s natural to set goals and dream of positive changes.
But let’s face it – starting (or restarting) a healthy lifestyle can feel overwhelming, and setbacks can make us question our progress.
The truth is, every day offers a new chance to recommit to yourself and your wellbeing.
So, where do you begin?
Here are five simple yet powerful steps to help you move forward, even if you’ve stumbled along the way:
1. Reflect Without Judgment: instead of dwelling on what went wrong, ask yourself what you can learn from past experiences.
Every setback is an opportunity to discover what truly works for you.
can make all the di erence.
5. Embrace the Present: let go of guilt about yesterday and anxiety about tomorrow.
The present moment is your greatest opportunity for change.
New year, new beginnings: small steps for a healthier life
THE arrival of a new year often stirs a sense of reflection – a chance to reassess our priorities and set intentions for a healthier, more balanced life.
It’s a symbolic time for fresh starts, and even the smallest changes can create ripples of transformation.
WITH KACEY O’CALLAGHAN, WHOLEFOODS
o er natural alternatives that are kind to your skin and free from harmful chemicals.
From nourishing moisturisers to mineralbased makeup, these products help you care for yourself while reducing your toxic load.
3. Forgive Yourself: self compassion is not weakness; it’s a powerful tool for growth. Progress isn’t about perfection – it’s about showing up consistently, even after a misstep.
4. Find Support: you don’t have to do this alone.
Share your goals with a friend, join a wellness group, or seek guidance from a naturopath.
Support and accountability
2. Simplify Your Goals: Big overwhelming goals often lead to burnout. Start small – drink more water, stretch for five minutes, or take a short walk each day. Small habits build lasting momentum.
As you step into 2025, remember: you have the courage to begin again.
Take a deep breath, stand tall, and take that next small step.
Every choice you make matters, and every small victory deserves celebration.
This year, let your health journey be one of kindness, persistence, and joy.
You’re stronger than you realise, and your potential is limitless.
To find out more about how we can assist you with your health goals call the NE Naturopathic Group on (03) 5798 3344
Perhaps this is the year you prioritise cleaner water with a Zazen water filter, ensuring your family stays hydrated with clean water loaded with essential minerals while reducing chlorine, fluoride, bacteria, and heavy metals.
Or maybe it’s time to swap out old cookware for non-toxic alternatives like Solidteknics or Neoflam, reducing your exposure to harmful chemicals.
For those looking to enhance their diet, eating more organic produce is a powerful step.
Not only does it reduce your exposure to pesticides, but it also supports a healthier planet, promoting farming practices that nurture our environment.
Consider starting small by incorporating organic staples into your weekly meals or trying locally sourced produce that aligns with the seasons.
Another impactful change could be switching to low-tox skincare and cosmetics.
Brands like Eco by Sonya, Inika, and Weleda
Small swaps in your daily routine can add up to significant benefits for both your health and the environment.
We believe that change should feel empowering, not daunting.
This month, consider choosing one area to focus on.
Then, as the seasons shift, make another small adjustment.
Over time, these incremental steps create a lifestyle that prioritises well-being and sustainability – one choice at a time.
Let this new year be a celebration of progress, not perfection.
Whatever changes you choose, wherever you are on your journey to optimum health, we’re here to support and guide you with products and advice tailored to your needs. Let’s embrace a healthier and happier 2025.
By CHRISTOS MILIANKOS, NORTH EAST NATUROPATHIC GROUP
NEW BEGINNINGS: Kacey and Jerry O’Callaghan encourage a more holistic approach to new year resolutions.