MEMBERS of the Embroiderers Guild, Victoria, North East branch have decided to spread some Christmas cheer through creating embroidered keepsakes for foster children.
All 38 members pitched in by creating small, embroidered gifts to donate to UMFC’s Give a Gift Appeal.
tre Against Violence to reach more people in need across the North East region.
By CHLOE JAENICKE
“We decided a few months ago to make some little Christmas stockings, Santa sack keepsakes and Christmas decorations for the children to be handed out towards the end of November at their Christmas party,” Embroiderers Guild, Victoria, North East branch member, Julie Niklaus, said.
The UMFC Give a Gift appeal is a yearly tradition where UMFC give gifts donated by the community to children doing it tough over the Christmas period.
This year UMFC are teaming up with Cen-
UMFC chief executive officer, Felicity Williams, said that they are grateful for the donations created by the embroiderers guild.
“We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the North Eastern branch of Embroiderers Guild, Victoria, for their generous and thoughtful contribution of beautiful keepsakes for the children and young people in foster and kinship care,” she said.
“These special items will offer comfort
and serve as a reminder–especially during what is often an emotional time of year–that they are valued and loved.”
Embroiderers Guild, Victoria, North East branch’s president, Gabriel Kearle, said they decided to get involved to show the foster kids that they care.
“We thought it was a good opportunity to help the kids because so many kids go without presents at Christmas time and that’s such a shame,” she said.
■ Continued Page 6
◆ CHRISTMAS CHEER: Georgie Romero (UMFC), Keyha Howlett (UMFC), Embroiderers Guild, Victoria, North East branch president, Georgie Kearle and Lisa Ramsay (UMFC) are helping foster children have a better Christmas. PHOTO: Kurt Hickling
◆ PET ALLERGIES: During spring there is an increase in pets having issues with seasonal allergies.
Seasonal allergies in pets
SPRING has sprung and we are starting to see a massive increase in pets having issues with seasonal allergies.
Seasonal allergies in dogs and cats often lead to various skin issues, but they can also contribute to ear infections, a common and uncomfortable condition for pets.
Allergens such as pollen, grasses, and dust mites can trigger inflammation in the skin including the ears, making them more susceptible to infections.
When pets experience seasonal allergies, they may exhibit symptoms like excessive itching, redness, scratching at their ears or shaking their heads, which can further irritate the skin or the ear canal.
This irritation creates an ideal environment for bacteria or yeast to thrive, resulting in a skin infection or an ear infection.
Signs of an ear infection include redness or swelling of the ear canal, discharge, a foul odour, and persistent scratching or shaking of the head.
Prompt veterinary attention is crucial, as
with James Cameron WARBY STREET VET
untreated ear infections can lead to more severe complications.
Diagnosis typically involves a thorough examination of the affected area and possibly ear or skin swabs to identify the type of infection.
Treatment may include cleaning the ears, topical or oral medications, and addressing the underlying allergies.
Antihistamines or corticosteroids can help manage allergic reactions.
Preventive measures are essential.
Keeping pets indoors during high pollen counts, regularly cleaning their ears, and using hypoallergenic products can help reduce the risk of both allergies and subsequent ear infections.
By working closely with a veterinarian, pet owners can ensure their furry companions remain healthy and comfortable throughout allergy season.
This Day in History, 1975
FLASH FLOOD IN WANGARATTA
A FLASH fl ood in Wangaratta followed the dumping from the heavens of 33mm of rain in an hour.
The fl oods swept along Rowan Street, ankle deep through the Rickards and Henderson building and Carrolls Supermarket.
Waves rolled across footpaths and into buildings, as the speeding cars of exuberant youths aqua-planed along Rowan Street.
A few yellowbelly starting to be caught around region
THE fish are biting.
Things are really starting to get quite exciting in the world of fishing around North East Victoria.
Last week I fished the Ovens River twiceonce at Peechelba and once in Wangaratta.
At Peechelba my daughter Holly caught two yellowbelly, both around 30cm long.
I caught one Murray cod about 40cm long.
All fish were released unharmed.
In Wangaratta I caught five carp, two Murray cod and a crayfish.
The Murray cod and the crayfish were released unharmed, and the carp were all fatally harmed prior to release.
On both occasions, all fish were caught using worms as bait.
The yabbies are on the bite in most farm dams that have yabbies in them now.
If you know a dam that you catch yabbies in, or have a dam you wish to try, now is the perfect time.
Just remember to always ask the farmers for permission before you access private property.
I had one report this week of two yellowbelly
being caught at Lake Nillahcootie.
Both fish were caught using worms and fishing off the bank.
If Lake Nillahcootie hasn’t started to fire yet, it will any day now.
Mid-October until mid-December is my favourite time of the year to go fishing for yellowbelly in Lake Nillahcootie.
I did spend an evening fishing at Lake Buffalo one night last week.
Fishing with my daughter Holly and friends Gerry and Kate, we managed to catch two small Macquarie perch and several small redfin.
All fish were released.
The redfin were too small to keep and the Macquarie perch are a totally protected species and must be returned whenever and wherever they are caught.
◆ ON THE MENU: Forget Reef & Beef, or Surf & Turf… I had Dam & Ham for lunch last Friday. A
lovely feed of yabby tails fried in garlic butter with a bit of added bacon on the bank of the creek.
Plan your festival weekend
JAZZ and blues fans, and lovers of live music, have jumped at the chance to be part of the revitalised Wangaratta Festival of Jazz and Blues in 2024.
A new model of festival has excitement levels rising for the four-day music smorgasbord, which will run from November 1 to 4 in Wangaratta and surrounds.
The complementary Tarra Blues Fest 2 at Tarrawingee will add to the local offering over the pre-Melbourne Cup weekend, ensuring there is something to suit all tastes.
Tickets are selling quickly for a range of festival shows across the four days.
Some, including Jules Boult and the Redeemers at The Vine, and the Julien Wilson Quartet featuring Mark Fitzgibbon which is part of the Tiny Jazz Series at the Old Baptist Church on the corner of Baker and Docker Streets, sold out a couple of weeks in advance, while several others have limited tickets available.
For those keen to be part of the resurgent festival, time is of the essence in snapping up the remaining tickets.
To view the full program, visit
band is a dynamic force whenever it takes the stage.
https://wangjazzblues.com.au/, where there is a downloadable program and a festival map to guide visitors around the various venues.
There will be a host of other opportunities to soak up the atmosphere of the event.
A free community stage will operate on the former bowling green at the Wangaratta Club from 11am to 4pm on the Saturday, with the family-friendly space featuring music, shelter, food and activities.
The festival has partnered with Little Projector Company to develop an immersive community arts and lights installation which will be projected onto Wangaratta CBD buildings during the festival. Pop-up light shows are sched-
uled for free walking bike tours which will depart from the Wangaratta Cenotaph on the Saturday night at 8pm and 10pm.
The traditional Oxley Bush Market is on at the Oxley Hall from 9am on the Saturday, Wang’s Big Record Fair will be at The Centre in Chisholm Street on the Saturday and Sunday, the King Valley Art Show is at King River Brewing over the weekend, and Holy Trinity Cathedral will be a focus on the Sunday with the annual jazz mass, as well as family-friendly activities and food and drink vendors located in the cathedral surrounds.
On the newly-christened ‘Milawa Monday’, there will be a feast of entertainment in the township to round out the festival.
Support Mansfield’s creative community
THIS Melbourne Cup Weekend (November 2 and 3), the Mansfield Open Studio Trail (MOST) returns, offering a captivating journey into the heart of North East Victoria’s thriving art scene.
Over two days, visitors are invited to explore the studios of 26 talented artists and artisans, showcasing a wide range of artistic mediums, including steel sculpture, jewellery, painting, pottery, ceramic art, and textiles.
Established in 2019 by local artist Wendy Jagger, MOST has become a beloved annual event that highlights the exceptional talent and diversity of Mansfield Shire’s creative community.
Supported by the Mansfield Shire Council, this year’s event promises a vibrant tapestry of exhibitions and demonstrations for art lovers, collectors, and those curious about the creative process.
“We are all thrilled to welcome visitors once again into our unique studios and spaces, showcasing the
quality and diversity within our local artistic community,” Ms Jagger said.
A unique opportunity to connect with artists
MOST offers a rare opportunity for visitors to step inside the working studios of artists and artisans, many of which are not usually open to the public.
Guests can meet the creators, gain insight into their techniques, and discover the inspiration behind their work.
This direct interaction allows for a deeper appreciation of each artist’s practice and the unique artworks they produce.
Visitors will also have the chance to purchase original pieces directly from the makers, supporting local talent and taking home a one-of-akind treasure.
Highlights of MOST 2024
• Steel sculpture: Witness the transformation of raw metal into captivating forms.
• Jewellery: Discover unique handcrafted pieces that
blend traditional techniques with contemporary design.
• Painting: Enjoy a spectrum of styles and subjects, from landscapes to abstract works.
• Pottery and ceramic art: Appreciate the beauty of form and function in clay.
• Textiles: Explore the intricate world of fabric arts, from weaving to quilting. Mansfield Shire, just two and a half hours from Melbourne, offers the perfect weekend escape.
Nestled in the Victorian High Country, the region provides a picturesque backdrop for a journey through its flourishing art scene.
Plan your visit Maps and additional information about the participating artists and studios will be available online at www. mostmansfield.com.au and at key locations throughout the shire.
Follow MOST on Facebook and Instagram for the latest updates.
100 or
◆ CELEBRATION OF MUSIC: Kenyan Born singer Joys Njambi will perform at Holy Trinity Cathedral on Saturday, November 2, presenting an afternoon of soul and gospel classics in the ambience of the historic venue.
with Simone Kerwin NORTH EAST MEDIA
◆ TASTE OF BLUES: The Joel Havea Trio will take to the blues stage at the Wangaratta Club on Saturday night. Having honed their live show over countless European tours, the
◆
UNIQUE ART: MOST allows you to explore Mansfield’s thriving art community.
Spreading Christmas cheer with embroidery
■ From page 1
“It’s only something small but at least they’ll have something to hold onto for Christmas and that was the main idea, to give the children a gift to let them know someone’s thinking of them.”
Ms Niklaus said they decided to create small gifts for the children, so they’d be able to take them wherever they go.
“We find that they can be quite mobile kids that go from one house to another, and they can keep them wherever they go and whatever they choose to do,” she said.
“We thought that would be a good idea that they can keep for a long time.”
The members of the group let their imaginations run free with this project, creating both handmade and machine sewn pieces.
“Most of them are handmade, there are a couple of ladies that are very skilled in machine embroidery,” Ms Niklaus said.
“I’m expecting that there will be some little Christmas tree decorations that will be sewn with the machine embroidery.
“We of course made sure there were no beads or buttons, since they are going to children, and tried to stick to certain sizes for Santa sacks and Christmas stockings, but other than that the members did whatever they wanted.”
FEATURE STORY
To express interest in joining the group contact the Embroiderers Guild, Victoria North East branch’s secretary, Kerryn Taylor, on 0448 498 779.
Ms Kearle encourages others to give to organisations, like UMFC, to support children in need.
“I think it’s important to support causes like UMFC because there are so many kids that go without things and any organisation that helps children needs support,” she said.
You can also get involved in the Give a Gift appeal and make Christmas a little brighter for children in need by:
• Spreading the word about the appeal
• Collecting gifts and school supplies at your organisation or workplace
• Donating items including new toys, sporting equipment, school supplies, or gift cards, at UMFC Wangaratta (36 Mackay Street) or UMFC Wodonga (27-29 Stanley Street).
◆ HANDMADE GIFTS: Rae Joran and Jen Kilby from the Embroiderers Guild, Victoria, North East branch created embroidered keepsakes to donate to children doing it tough this Christmas.
Ms Niklaus said she hopes this project can promote both foster care and UMFC as well as inspire more people to get involved in embroidery as the group is always looking for more members.
“As you can imagine we’re aging a little bit and in terms of embroidery, not that many young people are interested,” she said.
“We just thought it would be an opportunity to showcase what we do as well.”
• Making a monetary donation via their CAV Give a Gift donation payment link or UMFC’s Give a Gift donation link.
Financial Donations can be made via htt ps://umfc.com.au/donation/ donations-give-a-gift/ and https://centreagainstviolence.org.au/supportus/#give-a-gift.
NorthEast JOBS
CUSTOMER SERVICE OFFICER
An exciting opportunity now exists for a casual Customer Service Officer to join our Customer Service team based in Milawa, Victoria.
What’s on Offer:
• 8-32 hours per week
• Work within one of Australia’s leading wine companies
• A flexible and supportive working environment
• Generous employee benefits including discounts on all products
If this role interests you and you believe you have the skills and experience to be successful in this role, then we would love to hear from you! Please scan the QR code below.
Further information and a position description may be obtained by emailing careers@brownfwg.com.au or by calling Allyce on (03) 5720 5500. Applications will close on 8 November 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.
Regional Victoria/Southern NSW – 2025 Operations Cadetship Program
Regional Victoria/Southern NSW – Mobile Concrete Supervisor – MOBI002
either a Diploma, of Early Years Learning training or equivalent and have a Current Police Check, Working With Children Check,
Publications, Communications & Reception Officer
We require a fulltime Publications and Communications Officer covering all aspects of College publications, print and online media, social media and website maintenance. The successful applicant will also assist in administration, including maintaining family and student records, census, and providing reception support for busy periods and absences.
We offer an attractive salary in line with experience.
For a position description and in order to apply, please scan the QR code below or visit https://careers.ceosand.catholic.edu.au/ jobs/search and search the job number below. Please include a cover letter that addresses the key selection criteria.
Expressions of interest for further information and position description Phone Mandy on (03) 5728 2378 or email BCEYLC@gmail.com
For more information, please contact the Business Manager on (03) 5752 1596.
Marian College is a Catholic secondary school, serving the Myrtleford and Alpine Valley regions of Victoria’s North East. The College enjoys close partnerships with St Mary’s Primary School and St Mary’s Parish.
Applications close Monday 11th November
CES Limited embraces diversity and social inclusion and encourages people from diverse backgrounds to apply. We are committed to promoting the safety, wellbeing, and inclusion of all children. Job number 492703
www.mawsons.com.au/careers/join-us
Your local Wangaratta Chronicle has brought together local employers and local employees for generations ...and it is no different today. People prefer to work close to home, to save on transport costs, the frustration of travel and to be closer to family. Both our printed and digital newspapers have a highly engaged local audience looking for news, sport, local
Be blown away by
Kincrome fans
G’DAY, it’s Russell here today and I want to talk to you about my biggest fans - I recently took my friend to see the world’s biggest fan; he was blown away.
Alright, that’s enough of the silly stuff, the fans I want to tell you about today are from our friends at Kincrome.
We carry the fantastic range of Kincrome industrial fans right here at North East Fasteners.
These fans are built tough and you can use them in so many places, including the office, your man cave or shed, workshop or out on a job site.
They include features such as an energy efficient induction motor, multi speed switch, high velocity air flow, heavy duty construction and come with standard oscillation and tilt functions.
Now, don’t worry if you’re not that handy, Kincrome fans requires minimal assembly and the entire range complies to all safety
standard requirements so you won’t need any sort of ‘manual for dummies’.
Well, that’s all from me today, if you want to know more, come in or give us a call and don’t forget to be the sharpest tool in the shed and get the right tool (or fan) for your job.
◆ For the full range of Kincrome industrial fans available, scan the QR code or visit https://www. kincrome.com.au.
Men’s cancer: Key signs and early detection tips
A CANCER prevention plan for men is essential to improving early detection and boosting the chances of successful treatment.
Regularly monitoring your body and being aware of changes can make a big difference.
Be on the lookout for lumps, sores, or ulcers that don’t heal, as well as any unusual changes in your testicles, such as alterations in shape, consistency, or lumpiness.
Persistent coughs, hoarseness, unexplained weight loss, changes in moles, blood in bowel movements, or ongoing urinary issues are also signals that something may be wrong.
While these symptoms are often linked to less serious conditions, don’t hesitate to consult your doctor if they persist.
Let’s delve a little deeper into some of the cancers which may affect men:
Prostate cancer is one of the
most common cancers affecting men, but there isn’t a single definitive test for early detection.
One important screening tool is the PSA (prostate-specific antigen) blood test, which can detect elevated levels that may indicate prostate cancer.
It is generally recommended for men over 50, or as early as 40 for those with a family history of the disease.
Testicular cancer, though rare, is most common in men aged 15 to 45 and is highly
treatable if detected early.
Men with a history of undescended testicles are at higher risk, so it’s crucial to stay aware of what feels normal for you.
Any changes should prompt a visit to the doctor.
Bowel cancer screening is another key component of a cancer prevention plan.
Starting in July 2024, the Australian Government will lower the screening age from 50 to 45.
Those aged 45 to 74 can request a free test kit, which is simple, quick, and can be done at home.
The take home message for today is that if you’re experiencing any unusual symptoms or want to stay proactive about cancer prevention, speak to your GP about screening options for prostate, testicular, and bowel cancers.
Early detection could save your life.
◆ BIGGEST FAN: North East Fasteners carries a large range of Kincrome industrial fans.
with Russell Ferguson NORTH EAST FASTENERS N
with Teresa McMahon SOUTH WANGARATTA MEDICAL CENTRE
