RE300425SamReiher by Provincial Press Group

April 30 - May 6, 2025

Enlightening the North East on First Nations culture

By GRACE FREDSBERG

ABORIGINAL healer and wellness facilitator Lee Couch is a staunch advocate for strengthening cultural connections across the North East region.

For 15 years, she’s been at the frontline of uplifting First Nations voices.

She co-ordinated the Alpine Shire’s ﬁrst NAIDOC week event last year and has held a number of workshops informed by First Nations identity in the region.

“After a really hurtful referendum, it was important both to me, for my own personal identiﬁcation, but also my daughter’s identity and other First Nations people living within this area,” Lee said.

“It is important that our culture is celebrated, to strengthen that identity.”

She underscored the importance of the relationships between First Nations people and said observances such as NAIDOC week and her workshops help everyone grasp a better understanding of Aboriginal people and their culture.

“No one really knows where to start in that reconciliation journey,” she said.

■ Continued Page 6

◆ HEALING JOURNEY: Lee Couch’s (left) commitment to well-being is grounded in traditional Aboriginal ways of knowing, being and doing.

Recognising osteoarthritis in pets

FOR many pet owners in our community, our furry companions are not just animals, they’re family.

That’s why it’s important to recognise the signs of osteoarthritis, a painful joint disease that a ects cats and dogs.

While often associated with aging, osteoarthritis is more common than many realise, with studies estimating that at least one in ﬁve dogs and three in ﬁve cats will develop the condition in their lifetime.

It can a ect pets of any age, particularly those that are overweight.

Without proper management, it can signiﬁcantly impact their quality of life.

Osteoarthritis occurs when the protective cartilage in the joints wears down over time, leading to increased friction, inﬂammation, and pain.

Unfortunately, our pets can’t verbally tell us when they’re hurting, and many instinctively hide

By WARBY STREET VETERINARY CLINIC

their discomfort, especially cats.

Physical signs such as stiness, di culty getting up, limping, reluctance to climb stairs or furniture, muscle loss or licking at joints may indicate osteoarthritis.

Less obvious symptoms are often behavioural, such as reluctance to walk or exercise, irritability when touched, increased lethargy, dull demeanor and restlessness.

Cold weather can exacerbate these signs, so please pay particular attention to your pets for these symptoms, especially coming into the chilly autumn and winter months of the North East.

While osteoarthritis cannot be cured, a multi-targeted approach can help reduce symptoms and slow its progression.

Management of osteoarthri-

tis typically includes anti-inflammatory medications, exercise modification, weight management, physiotherapy, environmental modification and joint supplements.

Prevention is always better than cure, and one of the biggest risk factors for osteoarthritis is obesity.

Maintaining a healthy weight is one of the most e ective ways to reduce your pet’s risk of developing this painful condition.

By staying informed and proactive, pet owners can make a real di erence in their furry companion’s quality of life.

Regular check-ups, early intervention, and a tailored management plan are key to keeping your pet happy, mobile, and pain-free.

If you notice any signs of arthritis, please reach out to your veterinarian and take the ﬁrst step toward a more comfortable future for your pet.

This day in history, 1888

Its

Large carp on the chew at old Lake Mokoan wall

WE are now heading into the quiet season in the ﬁshing world.

It’s quiet because many anglers are now focusing on deer hunting, football and getting ready for the ski season.

It’s not necessarily quite as far as ﬁshing goes and many keen anglers like myself still have lots of ﬁshing options across North East Victoria.

If you enjoy carp ﬁshing, the Winton Wetlands is the place to head to at the moment.

There are plenty of big carp being caught over there, but you need to know exactly where to go.

You need to go to the old Lake Mokoan wall.

You can drive along the bottom of the wall to a car park, where there is a dry concrete spillway.

This is the Winton Wetlands overﬂow in wet years.

There is a big long channel of water lined up with that spillway (upstream) and that is where the big carp are currently being caught.

Forget the other large ponds, the best ﬁshing is in the long, shallow dirty channel.

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Using sweet corn kernels, or worms you just can not go wrong at the moment.

My friend Sonny and I caught around 15 huge carp in there one evening last week.

In other news the local rivers are still ﬁshing well for Murray cod.

They’re not ﬁshing as well as they were when the water was a bit warmer, but this continued warm and dry weather is certainly extending the good Murray cod ﬁshing this season.

As I have said in recent reports, the cod ﬁshing has been quite hit and miss lately, but there are still plenty of Murray cod being caught in many of the North East Victorian rivers including the Ovens,

Broken.

ST Jude’s, one of the most charming old churches in the North East, was opened on this day in 1871 at Eldorado.

foundation stone had been laid the previous year by Archdeacon Tucker, after a well-attended procession through the streets of Eldorado.

King, Kiewa, Mitta Mitta and

MUD MARLIN: A 74cm carp caught on sweetcorn at the Winton Wetlands last week.

By ROBBIE ALEXANDER WANGARATTA

Timeless Support leads the way as new aged care standards set to improve

WITH the upcoming introduction of the strengthened Aged Care Quality Standards under the new Aged Care Act, older Australians and their families can look forward to safer and more personalised care.

These new standards are part of the federal government’s broader reform to build a system that respects the rights, dignity and needs of our aging population.

At the forefront of this transformation is Timeless Support, a respected regional provider of in-home aged care services, known for its commitment to excellence and compassion.

Based in Wangaratta and servicing the surrounding areas, Timeless Support is already aligning its practices with the incoming standards to ensure a seamless transition for clients.

The Strengthened Quality Standards, set to take e ect from 1 July, 2025 focus on several key areas:

• The rights of older people are at the centre of care.

• Personalised and culturally-safe care, with a focus on choice and independence.

• Safe, e ective, and evidence-based care and services.

• Governance and leadership that ensure accountability.

• Partnering with carers, families, and communities to support each client’s goals.

BY MICHELLE AZARIS, TIMELESS SUPPORT

• Continuous quality improvement through feedback and monitoring.

“This reform is a signiﬁ cant step forward,” Timeless Support business manager George Azaris said, welcoming the new changes.

“At Timeless Support, we already strive to exceed expectations, and these standards o er a clear and consistent framework for quality and safety across the sector.”

Timeless Support o ers a wide range of services including personal care, domestic assistance, respite, gardening and social support.

These services are all delivered by a skilled and compassionate team who treat every client with the dignity they deserve.

Families and older people looking for a provider who values professionalism, trust, and personalised service can get in touch via email admin@timelesssupport.com.au or phone 1300 292 747.

Alternatively, you can visit www.timelesssupport.com.au.

As the aged care sector evolves, Timeless Support remains a trusted name, delivering care with heart – now and into the future.

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FRIDAY 9 MAY - 7.30PM WANGARATTA PERFORMING ARTS & CONVENTION CENTRE Bookings: www.wpacc.com.au

Stay healthy this flu season: why getting vaccinated matters YOUR HEALTH

FLU season in Australia can hit hard and it’s not just a bad cold – it’s a serious illness that can knock you o your feet for weeks.

Every year, thousands of Aussies end up in hospital because of the ﬂu.

It can be especially dangerous for kids, older people and anyone with ongoing health issues.

However, there’s an easy way to protect yourself and those around you: the ﬂu vaccine.

The ﬂu vaccine is quick, safe, and e ective.

It doesn’t work instantly though, and will take about two weeks for your body to build up immunity.

That’s why it’s a good idea to get vaccinated early, before ﬂu season really kicks o (usually between June and September).

Think of it as giving your immune system a head start.

Even if you’re ﬁt and healthy, getting vac-

By TERESA MCMAHON, SOUTH WANGARATTA MEDICAL CENTRE

cinated helps protect the people around you, like your grandparents, your kids or that friend with asthma.

The vaccine is updated every year to match the latest ﬂu strains, so it’s your best defense against what’s going around.

Getting vaccinated against the ﬂu is such a simple thing to do but makes a huge difference.

It’s not just about keeping yourself healthy – it’s about looking out for your community too.

So, why not book your ﬂu vaccination today?

Let’s all do our part to stay healthy and keep the ﬂu at bay this season.

FOR THOSE WHO PREFER A HIGHER LEVEL OF CARE

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.

Wangaratta, Benalla, Wodonga, Albury

SLEEVES UP: Taking the ﬂu vaccine is one of the most e ective measures to combat this nasty illness. PHOTO: Image Point Fr/Shutterstock.com

Helping to enlighten the North East on First Nations rich culture

■ Continued from page 1

“It’s about keeping that alive and not falling victim to that referendum; having the courage to move forward.”

A proud Gamilaroi woman from Northern NSW, Lee has kinship connections to Yorta Yorta through her maternal lines and western cultures through her paternal lines.

“My mum was born in Quirindi and raised in Cewlis, Gunnedah and Tamworth, with ancestors from Borah Crossing – Manilla, Boggabri, and Moree,” she said.

Lee also runs a number of workshops and retreats alongside creative facilitator Arkeria Rose Armstrong.

“We work across diverse settings; prisons, communities, schools, sporting clubs, government and corporate sectors,” she said.

“Whether it’s a yarning circle in community, a team building workshop or cultural retreat in a corporate space, each o ering is designed to strengthen relationships, cultural responsiveness, honour lived

She currently resides in her adopted homelands, the traditional lands of the Dhudhuroa, Waywurru and Taungurong Peoples (Alpine Shire).

Aged and/or Disability Care

Become a Support worker in community, home or residential care.

CHC33021

experience, and support collective healing and sustainable wellbeing.”

Lee will be holding a Weaving for Wellness workshop at Bright Ec.lec.tic on Saturday, 10 May from 10am-1pm.

“Our workshop is a cultural creation that utilises hand-dyed ra a to o er a profound experience and share knowledge about the cultural practice of weaving,” Lee said.

“We will guide participants in connecting with the land to achieve a sense of connection and well-being through our unique range of healing products.

A NEW CAREER AWAITS!

Study 1 day a week to get qualified

Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing and Disability)

Wangaratta – Tuesday classes

Course Fees if eligible for government funding

$360 no concession / $160 concession or Asylum Seeker

$110 Aboriginal and/ Torres Strait Islander

Community, Youth or Alcohol & Other Drugs support

Become a support worker for community based organisations, withdrawal services, residential rehabilitation services and outreach services

CHC43215 Certificate IV in Alcohol and Other Drugs

Wangaratta – Thursday classes

Course Fees if eligible for government funding

$410 no concession / $170 concession or Asylum Seeker

$110 Aboriginal and/Torres Strait Islander

BOOK YOUR SPOT NOW to attend our course information session

Citizenship, Permanent Residency or Asylum Seeker criteria apply to be able to enrol with Skills First government funding Speak with our course advisor Lorelle to find out more!

Or email your contact details to info@pta.edu.au

Partners In Training Australia - RTO 21837

If you are eligible for Skills First Funding and access your Skills First entitlement this training is delivered with Victorian and Commonwealth Government funding

“Participants can expect to be welcomed into a ceremonial space, where they will be inspired to create a woven item to take home as a memento of their experience.”

To register, you can visit https://form.jotform. com/250777376254870.

Additionally, Lee is holding the shire’s second annual NAIDOC event on Sunday, 13 July, motivated by the theme of “The next generation: Strength, vision and legacy”.

To ﬁ nd out more about Lee’s work, contact Lee at hello@leecouch.com or visit https://leecouch.com.

WEAVING THE WAY: Learn about First Nations practices with Lee Couch at her upcoming Weaving

NorthEast JOBS

Advertising Sales Manager North East Media - Wangaratta

Who are we looking for?

North East Media is looking for a driven and committed individual to lead our advertising sales team at Wangaratta, where you will be responsible for managing existing clients while growing your own sales for group newspapers (including the Wangaratta Chronicle), websites and special publications.

The ideal candidate will have:

• The capacity to see opportunities and market trends and a drive to achieve results to help our business grow.

• Effective communication skills (verbal and written), enabling connection with a wide range of people across various industries.

• The capability to sustain existing relationships and continuously build new ones.

• An excellent work ethic and organisational skills (including maintaining current records in our company CRM program) enabling you to consistently meet deadlines and achieve your sales targets.

• The ability to collaborate (including with your manager, sales colleagues, our editors and graphic designers) to ensure seamless execution of advertising campaigns.

• A motor vehicle and a current driver’s licence

What are we offering?

A full-time position with an attractive remuneration package comprising a base salary, commission and employer superannuation contributions.

About North East Media

North East Media, a division of Provincial Press Group, is an independent family-owned media company publishing over 25 newspapers across North East Victoria, Central West and Southern NSW.

How to apply

If you are self-motivated, results-orientated and looking for a challenge in the media environment, then please forward your resume and covering letter to:

Edward Higgins

CEO North East Media ehiggins@nemedia.com.au

Expressions of Interest –Plumbing

and Gas-Fitting Subcontractors

Freedom FM is one of the largest and longest-serving providers of public housing maintenance services in Victoria, currently managing nine contracts across metropolitan and regional areas.

We are inviting Expressions of Interest from qualified Plumbing and Gas-Fitting Subcontractors to deliver maintenance services in Government Housing throughout the Benalla, Wangaratta and the surrounding areas.

This opportunity offers:

• Consistent workflow – no quoting or chasing payments

Long-term partnership and business growth

• Full training and onboarding support

Scope of works includes (but not limited to):

Blocked drains

• Sewer and stormwater repairs

• Tapware, guttering, and downpipe replacements

• Burst pipes

Toilet/cistern and appliance installations

We’re looking for subcontractors who are:

• Reliable and resilient

• Fully licensed and suitably qualified Flexible and professional

To express your interest, please email: admin@freedomfm.com.au

4SITE

Positions Vacant

4SITE is a family owned and managed business.

We are looking for Garbage Collectors to join our team for the Mount Buller Area.

Seasonal Position “Winter 25” Licence: Medium Rigid preferred Qualifications, Skills, Knowledge and Experience

• A strong focus on safety;

• Ability to work in a harsh alpine environment;

• Ability to exercise sound judgement and carry out instructions with minimum supervision;

• Demonstrated ability to operate as an effective team member

To find out more information and to apply please scan the barcode, alternatively send your resume to jobs@4siteaustralia.com

www.northeastjobs.com.au

CATHEDRAL COLLEGE WANGARATTA

The College seeks applications from suitably experienced persons for the following positions commencing in Term Three, 2025.

The College seeks applications from suitably experienced persons for the following positions.

Legal Studies Teacher

Plus an additional subject/learning area Full time or Part Time (Negotiable)/Ongoing

Legal Studies Teacher

Plus an additional subject/learning area

Teacher Assistant

Full time or Part Time (Negotiable)/Ongoing

Learning Enhancement Assistant

Teacher Assistant

Middle and Senior School Full time/Ongoing

Middle and Senior School Full Time/Ongoing

Middle and Senior School Full time/Ongoing

Please refer to our website, www.cathedralcollege.vic.edu.au for the position description and application closing dates.

Please refer to our website, www.cathedralcollege.vic.edu.au for the position description and application closing date.

Please refer to our website, www.cathedralcollege.vic.edu.au for the position description and application closing dates.

STUDENT SERVICES AND ENGAGEMENT COORDINATOR

Part-time (FTE 0.6, hrs neg).

Location: Wangaratta

WHO WE ARE LOOKING FOR

An individual who is dedicated, passionate and enthusiastic about creating opportunities for regional and remote students.

Strong collaborative skills with ability to build strong relationships with diverse stakeholders and work within a team.

• Good public speaker, presenter, and ability to coordinate activities and events.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

• Excellent organisation and time management skills.

Proficiency in Microsoft Office and social media knowledge.

Email degrees@cucovensmurray.edu.au or Call 0490 022 028 to request a copy of the Position Description.

Applications close Friday, May 9 at 5pm.

Advertisers please note!

Much hardship and difficulty is caused to job seekers by misleading advertising placed in the employment columns. Our Employment column is reserved for advertisements which carry a specific and genuine offer of employment. Ads for 'Business Opportunities', 'Commission Only' training courses and employment services should be submitted under those headings.

Placing misleading ads is an offence against the Trade Practices Act and state/territory fair trading acts and all advertisements are subject to the publisher's approval. For further advice, contact: The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission on 1300 302 502 or your state consumer affairs agency.

Gear up for winter season with Pacific Energy fireplaces

Energy are setting the stage for a warm and inviting winter season with a blend of innovative design and dependable performance.

As winter approaches, getting in early for ﬁreplace season is not just a seasonal tip – it’s a call to upgrade to a heating solution that offers both aesthetic appeal and robust functionality.

need to have your everyday tools on hand.

Multi-tools, knives, torches and small chargers are just a few of the items included that you’ll be able to store in this handy organiser pouch.

Crafted with heavy-duty polyester, this pouch helps to keep everything safe and sorted.

Features include internal organisers suited to di erent tools and a large carry handle for easy transportation.

By DEAN ACKERLY, NORTH EAST FASTENERS

MOLLE webbing on the pouch’s exterior allows you to securely attach it to backpacks. It’s perfect everyday use, and ensures you’re prepared for everything; from minor repairs and emergency situations, to a humble phone charge or note-taking.

Crafted with pride in Canada, these ﬁreplaces are a testament to quality and reliability.

The advanced stainless steel ba e system ensures consistent controlled burn, delivering long burn times of 12-15 hours.

This means homeowners can enjoy an overnight burn that keeps the cold at bay, making these ﬁreplaces perfect for cosy evenings and ensuring the warmth lingers through the night.

In an era when e ciency and environmental consciousness are paramount, Paciﬁc Energy ﬁreplaces shine with their high e ciency and low emissions.

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This season, as families gather and communities come together, Paciﬁc Energy ﬁreplaces invite everyone to experience the perfect fusion of modern technology and classic comfort.

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Now is the time to embrace the season, welcome the chill, and turn your home into a haven of comfort with Paciﬁc Energy ﬁreplaces.

TOOLS AT THE READY: Keep your tools secure and on-hand with Kincrome’s EDC tool kits. Pictured is Kincrome’s seven-piece EDC tool kit.

TRADITIONAL TOUCH: Paciﬁc Energy’s Alderlea T5 Wood Heater, available to purchase at My Slice of Life.

By CHELSEA IBROM, MY SLICE OF LIFE