THE Nth East Vic Aurora Hunters are always on the lookout for new members who are passionate about astrophotography.
Founder of the group, Jodie-Anne Kuhne, said she initially became interested in aurora hunting around eight years ago when she joined an Australian aurora group on Facebook and began keeping an eye out for anything she could capture in Wangaratta.
“Back then I was the only person in North East Vic, that I was aware of, that was part of the group so I became one of the people to help monitor how strong it was so the group could report to the other members if the aurora could be seen as far as North East Victoria,” she said.
“Since then, it has become an addiction and a dream to witness the aurora visible to the naked eye which has happened quite a few times now.”
Ms Kuhne said she is so drawn to aurora hunting as she believes auroras are an amazing phenomenon to witness.
“We see plenty of photos from the northern hemisphere of the aurora borealis and to know that we don’t have to leave Australia to see them makes it even more attractive,” she said.
“Seeing the beautiful colours such as red, pink, purple, blue and green is stunning.
“Watching the beams dancing across the sky is absolutely awe inspiring as well.”
After being asked many questions on her aurora posts on other Facebook pages, and realising many locals were unaware that you could capture them in our area, Ms Kuhne decided to start the Nth East Vic Aurora Hunters around three years ago.
In the group Ms Kuhne, alongside other seasoned aurora hunters, strives to give advice to those interested in astrophotography while also interacting with likeminded people.
■ Continued page 6
◆ ASTROPHOTOGRAPHERS: Rene Martin from Benalla, Jodie-Anne Kuhne from Wangaratta and Eryn Lee from Wangaratta all have a passion for photographing auroras.
VET CORNER Microchipping your pets
MICROCHIPPING your companion animal is a simple and effective way to help keep them safe and give you peace of mind.
It involves a tiny electronic chip being implanted under your pet’s skin, that can then be used to reunite you and your pet if they get lost.
When a pet is microchipped, the microchip’s unique number is registered with a database that includes your contact details.
Authorised users of the microchip database –including animal shelters, veterinarians and local councils – can scan the microchip and quickly find the owner’s information to facilitate a reunion.
Unlike collars and tags, which can be lost or removed, a microchip provides a permanent method of identification that stays with your pet for life.
Cats and dogs should be microchipped.
Some other species kept as companion animals can also be microchipped (e.g., rabbits).
It’s important to know that for cats and dogs, microchipping is often a legal requirement.
Ensuring compliance with local laws is another crucial reason to microchip your pet.
Check with your local authority to understand the specific requirements in your area.
Ideally, pets should be microchipped before adoption or purchase.
However, if your pet isn’t microchipped yet, schedule an appointment with your veterinarian as soon as possible.
Local councils and animal welfare organisations may also offer microchipping services.
Here’s a closer look at what microchipping entails:
1. How it works: A microchip is a small electronic device, about the size of a grain of rice, implanted under the skin between the shoulder
with RSPCA - kb.rspca.org.au
blades at the back of your pet’s neck.
Each chip has a unique number that can be detected using a microchip scanner.
The microchip number is recorded on a microchip database registry with details about the animal and owner.
2. The procedure: The microchipping process is quick and similar to a routine vaccination.
While some pets may feel brief discomfort, this is minimal and short lived.
3. Maintaining up-to-date information: It’s absolutely vital to keep your contact details up to date in the microchip database.
This ensures that if your pet is found, you can be easily contacted.
You can update your information through various registries like Pet Address or by contacting your veterinarian.
For more information, visit the RSPCA Knowledgebase.
This Day in History, 1870
A VIEW OF BONTHARAMBO, 1870
THE observations of the Rev W.M.Finn of Heidelberg on the North East has been published and were being read with great interest in the district.
The Rev Finn was particularly impressed with the countryside around Dockers Plains extending through to Tarrawingee.
The Rev Finn commented on the quality of the Riesling made in Bontharambo, and the richness of the soil of Dockers Plains, and the astonishing growth of its crops.
He remarked on the fruit grown in the Tarrawingee district.
He said he saw pears and apples that would rival, if not eclipse, the products of Heidelberg and Brighton.
Snow season continues at resorts into spring
WHILE winter is coming to a close, spring still offers plenty to do, on and off the slopes at our alpine resorts.
Falls Creek will be hosting its 14th annual Gay Ski Week where it is offering all-inclusive deals from August 30 until September 8.
Lift statuses were impacted by the storm over the weekend but activities including skiing and snowboarding remain open.
At Mt Hotham, the groomers have been busy at work getting the snow back to good condition after last
weekend’s storm.
Some more snow is expected to fall throughout the week with many of the lifts and trails still open.
Some of the lift and trails are still open at Mt Buller for visitors to explore with different slopes perfect for different skill levels from beginners to experts.
The snow conditions are variable, and visitors are urged to look out for grass and mud on the runs.
Both Dinner Plain and Mt Buffalo have experienced little to no snow and are closed
for skiing, snowboarding and tobogganing until further notice.
There are still plenty of sightseeing opportunities at Mt Buff alo and the closest toboggan slope to Dinner Plain is at Mt Hotham.
For the latest information on the mountains visit: Dinner Plain: visitdinnerplain.com.au Falls Creek: fallscreek.com.au
Mt Hotham: hotham.com.au
Mt Buffalo: visitmountbuffalo.com.au
Mt Buller: mtbuller.com.au.
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◆ STILL OPEN: Despite winter coming to a close, there is still plenty to do at Falls Creek in spring.
Bringing Birdsville to Wangaratta
EDGARS Books and News and the Wangaratta Library are looking forward to welcoming author Fiona McArthur on Thursday, September 12 at 6.30pm.
Fiona is the author of the non-fiction book Aussie Midwives, and lives on a farm with her husband in northern New South Wales.
She was awarded the NSW Excellence in Midwifery Award in 2015 and the Australian Ruby Award for Contemporary Romantic Fiction in 2020, and was shortlisted for the same award in 2023.
Fiona’s 13th book in the Aussie Outback Medical Romance Series, “Back to Birdsville”, was released at the end of July and is a heartfelt and evocative tale that sweeps readers into the vast, rugged landscapes of outback Queensland.
The novel centres on Phoebe McFadden, a midwife and emergency nurse who thought she had left Birdsville – and its tangled family dramas - behind forever.
When her cousin Scarlet invites her back to be a bridesmaid, Phoebe reluctantly returns, bracing herself to confront the ghosts of her past.
What she doesn’t anticipate is the town’s irresistible
charm and the unexpected reappearance of Atticus Bow, Birdsville’s new cop, who is no longer the awkward boy she once knew but a man who stirs feelings she thought she had buried.
McArthur deftly weaves together the personal and the communal, portraying Birdsville as more than just a backdrop.
The town, with its tight-knit community of 110 residents, becomes a character in its own right – one that embodies resilience, connection, and the kind of spirit that can only be found in the outback.
The Birdsville races, a be-
loved local event, add vibrancy to the story, providing a colourful setting that brings the town’s traditions and the bond among its people to life.
Following the talk, Fiona will sign copies of “Back to Birdsville” as well as any backlist books for readers; which are available now from Edgars Books & News or on the day.
This is a free event, but bookings are required – visit https://edgarsbooksandnews.com.au/events/ or call/ drop into Edgars at 55 Murphy Street 5721 3758 or the Wangaratta Library in Docker Street 5721 2366.
Upcoming Features
For more information please contact: sales@nemedia.com.au
◆ ACCOMPLISHED AUTHOR: Back to Birdsville is the 13th novel in Fiona McArthur’s Aussie Outback Medical Romance Series.
◆ HEARTFELT NOVEL: Follow Phoebe as she returns to her small hometown and confronts the ghost of her past in the novel Back to Birdsville.
with Belinda Harrison, Edgars Book & News
Chasing the aurora
■ From page 1
“I have been lucky to have had the guidance from many other members of this and other groups over the years,” she said.
“We post up regular updates in the group and give our members a headsup if there’s something happening.
“Due to the curvature of the earth, not all auroras can be visible to us, so we try and make sure that when we know a possibly big display is going to happen, we let our members know.”
Currently, they have more than 340 members from all across North East Victoria and southern NSW.
“We also accept people as far as Wagga in NSW as well as our information can be useful to those in the Riverina area of NSW,” Ms Kuhne said.
“There are many people that are learning about auroras and a few that
have plenty of experience.”
For those wanting to try astrophotography, Ms Kuhne said the most important thing to remember is that that auroras aren’t always visible to the naked eye.
“Just because you can’t see it, doesn’t mean it’s not there,” she said.
Ms Kuhne said it’s also important for people to learn basic astrophotography skills, use the right equipment and follow local groups, like the PacMan Space Weather Facebook group, to learn more information.
“A DSLR camera, wide angle lens and a tripod are the three best tools for capturing the aurora,” she said.
“Mobile phones these days also have excellent astrophotography abilities, but you will still need a tripod.
“Manual mode is a must for astrophotography and capturing the aurora.”
According to Ms Kuhne, there are many great viewing spots locally, with the best spot being at the Wangaratta Airport.
“At the airport, there is a large area that is flat with perfect south views and plenty of parking,” she said.
“There are also other spots such as Winton Wetlands and any lookouts that have southern views.
“Mt Buller and Mt Buffalo also have amazing views as well if people are willing to travel.”
Ms Kuhne said the group is currently accepting more members who are interested in all kinds of astrophotography from aurora hunting to meteor showers, comets, and lunar and solar eclipses.
For more information, or to join the Nth East Vic Aurora Hunters visit, https://www.facebook.com/ groups/675286820163292.
◆ AURORA HUNTING: Rene Martin, Jodie-Anne Kune and Eryn Lee encourage others to join The Nth East Aurora Hunters.
FEATURE STORY
NorthEast JOBS
WORK WITH US
SEASONAL FIRE CREW
Alexandra, Benalla, Myrtleford & Shelley
Applications are sought for Seasonal Fire Crew (Summer Plantation Workers) for the 2024/25 fire season. The paid limited tenure positions will run from early November 2024 to late March 2025 and will include physical outdoor work and firefighting.
The successful applicants:
• Must possess a current manual drivers licence
• Live within 30 minutes of their nominated work depot
• Be able to pass a pre-employment medical check and a drug and alcohol test
• Be available to attend all compulsory training throughout November
• Be available for regular rostered weekend standby within 15 minutes of the nominated depot
Plantation work is varied and involves four wheel driving, spraying, assisting with helicopter fertilising operations, track clearing, mapping, fire response and fuel reduction burning!
Current accreditations in chainsaw use, chemical use, first aid, firefighting and a MR license are favourable.
How to Apply!
Please send applications via our HVP Careers portal hvp.elmotalent.com.au/careers/hvp/jobs
Please scan the QR code for the Skills Summary Form to upload as a Cover Letter.
close 6th September 2024
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.
Based in Milawa, North East Victoria Permanent Part-time Role
Applications close 4pm Sunday 1 September 2024. Visit www.indigoshire.vic.gov.au/jobs to download the position recruitment kit, and to view instructions on how to apply.
The College seeks applications from suitably experienced persons for the following positions: Uniform Shop Assistant (Part-time)
Please refer to our website, www.cathedralcollege.vic.edu.au for position descriptions and application closing dates.
Credit Card &Eftpos facilities
About Us: Brown Family Wine Group is one of Australia’s most loved and respected wine companies built on over 130 years’ experience in quality winemaking, market leading innovation and family values that are at the heart of everything we do as a business.
Our portfolio has grown over time to now include market leading wine brands such as: Devil’s Corner from the East Coast of Tasmania, Tamar Ridge and Pirie from Tamar Valley Tasmania, Innocent Bystander from the Yarra Valley and of course Brown Brothers from Milawa Victoria the spiritual home of our business.
About the role: Reporting to the Risk & Safety Manager this role is responsible for providing administrative support to the Risk & Safety function and assisting in the development, delivery and maintenance of administrative systems of work.
About you: Ideally, the successful candidate will have:
• Minimum of two (2) years prior experience in an Administration role required.
• Experience in manufacturing or operational environments (preferred but not essential).
• Demonstrated proficiency in Microsoft office suite and a range of IT tools.
• Ability to communicate professionally and effectively at all levels.
What’s on Offer:
• Work within one of Australia’s leading wine companies
• Part-time role, 22.8 hours per week (Flexibility in hours available)
• Generous employee benefits including discounts on all products.
More Information: Further information and a position description may be obtained by emailing Allyce Henwood at careers@brownfwg.com.au
care
The truth behind naturopathy
WHENEVER someone finds out I am a naturopath they are either really intrigued or sceptical.
Often it generates some kind of conversation about the supplements they take or their fear of seeing a naturopath in case they have to stop drinking coffee or eating bread for the rest of their lives.
Whilst dietary modification and supplemental prescriptions are part of naturopathic care, seeing a naturopath does not mean giving up all your favourite foods, eating kale or taking a shopping bag of supplements.
A large part of my practice focuses on what foods you could add in, rather than take out.
There are so many wonderful ways to cook, jazz up basic meals, improve flavour, texture and ultimately digestive compatibility for a person that can make a huge impact on how you feel.
We often ask people to eat more of those foods, rather
with Belinda McPherson, NORTH EAST NATURAL HEALTH CENTRE
than forgo their favourite treats forever.
We would never dare ask a new mum to give up chocolate, or coffee.
In fact patients are often surprised when we encourage them to eat more of certain foods guilt free or change the timing of when they consume foods, rather than cutting them out.
Everything in moderation.
We were taught that the difference between medicine and poison is dose.
This is true for food and coffee.
Believe it or not, some people can’t digest kale very well, especially when raw or in a smoothie and studies have shown that if you drink one cup of coffee daily your concentration improves.
However, more than three
coffees daily can reduce your ability to absorb nutrients and for many people will contribute to poor sleep, anxiety and loose bowels.
And, everyone’s threshold is different due to weight, metabolism and digestive strength.
Naturopathic food prescriptions are all about working out what helps or hinders your health with supplements being the icing on the cake.
If you are unwell they can be a helping hand whilst you take time to make lasting changes to your health, diet and coffee consumption.
As a university qualified naturopath, I am here to help you piece the puzzle together by assessing your pathology, potential food intolerances, metabolism, digestion and mental and physical health to make a food and or supplement regime that will be simple and easy to implement.
I look forward to seeing you in the clinic.
AI in business: A legal perspective
LEGAL MATTERS
ARTIFICIAL intelligence
(AI) has emerged as a transformative force in business relatively quickly, promising unprecedented efficiency and innovation.
However, this technological revolution brings with it a complex web of legal considerations that businesses must navigate with care.
Legal Challenges on the Horizon
It’s worth noting that as a brand-new general-purpose technology, AI and its implications remains largely unregulated and untested by the courts.
AI technologies present several legal challenges that warrant careful consideration:
1. Data privacy and compliance
The operation of AI systems often necessitates the processing of vast amounts of data, including sensitive personal information.
This raises significant concerns regarding compliance with the Privacy Act 1988 and the Australian Privacy Principles (APPs).
Businesses must implement robust data governance frameworks to ensure lawful collection, use, and storage of data.
2. Algorithmic bias and discrimination
AI systems, if not properly designed and monitored, can perpetuate or even
amplify existing biases.
Organisations must be vigilant in auditing their AI systems for potential bias, particularly in areas such as recruitment, lending, and customer service.
3. Intellectual property conundrums
The use of AI in creative and inventive processes raises complex questions about intellectual property rights.
Current Australian law does not recognise AI systems as inventors for patent purposes, creating uncertainty around the ownership and protection of AI-generated innovations.
4. Liability and accountability
When AI-driven decisions result in harm or financial loss, determining responsibility— be it the business, the AI developer, or another party— can be challenging.
This necessitates clear accountability frameworks and potentially new approaches to risk management and insurance.
5. Infringement of Third-Party AI Rights
A critical legal risk in the AI landscape is the potential infringement of existing AI rights held by third parties.
This encompasses several key areas including, patent infringement, copyright issues, licensing compliance and open source risks
To mitigate these risks, businesses should implement robust due diligence processes, maintain clear documentation of AI development and sourcing, and establish strong contractual protections when engaging with AI vendors or partners.
6. Internal Business Processes and Policies
The integration of AI into business operations necessitates a comprehensive review and adaptation of internal processes and policies.
Organisations must develop clear guidelines governing the use of AI, addressing issues such as:
· Data management and security protocols specific to AI systems
· Ethical frameworks for AI development and deployment
· Training programs to ensure staff understand the capabilities and limitations of AI tools
· Procedures for monitoring and auditing AI performance and outcomes
· Mechanisms for human oversight and intervention in AI-driven processes
· Policies for transparency and accountability in AI-driven decision-making
These internal policies are crucial not only for legal compliance but also for maintaining ethical standards and building trust with customers and stakeholders.
◆ DIET CHANGES: Naturopathic
doesn’t always mean giving up your favourite foods.
