EMBARKING on a tour across the nation to promote her latest book, local author Margaret Hickey said she was conscious of the need to soak up the experience.
“Sometimes when I’m flying away to these things and staying in lovely hotels, I think I should stop and think how amazing this all is; it’s beyond what I imagined,” she said.
“It can also be quite tiring, but I do love meeting people - booksellers, readers and other crime writers.
“It’s always lovely; every person who contacts me or come up at events, I wish I had more time with them to say thank you.”
Margaret’s tour began on July 29 in NSW, and will take the Beechworth-based writer to Queensland, the ACT and Western Australia before she returns to Victoria for a series of events including author talks at the Wangaratta and Beechworth libraries on August 13 and 15 respectively.
She will wind down her tour as part of a panel of crime authors at the Bendigo Writers Festival on August 17.
The focus of it all is her latest novel, ‘The Creeper’, a chilling mystery set in the small mountain town of Edenville in Victoria’s High Country, which has been haunted for 10 years by the horrific murders of five hikers.
■ Continued page 6
◆ DRAWING ON LANDSCAPE: Beechworth author Margaret Hickey is on tour with her latest novel, ‘The Creeper’, which is set in a fictional town in Victoria’s High Country. She will speak about the release in Wangaratta on August 13 and Beechworth on August 15.
PHOTO: Kurt Hickling
◆ NEW RELEASE: ‘The Creeper’ is Margaret Hickey’s new novel.
◆ GREAT CONDITIONS: There is plenty of snow at Mt Hotham for skiing and snowboarding.
Plenty of snow to enjoy at resorts
FRESH snowfalls over the weekend is maintaining great conditions for skiing, snowboarding and snow play at the alpine resorts.
At Mt Hotham, there is around 87cm of snow with the groomers working hard to create the best skiing and snowboarding experience for visitors.
Women’s Ski Week continues at Mt Hotham until Friday, with free Arc’teryx P’Arc free park and freestyle session starting for all women and non-binary people next Tuesday and continuing every week throughout Au-
gust and September.
At Falls Creek there is an average snow depth of around 78cm and many of the slopes have been freshly groomed.
Over the weekend and into early next week, more snowfall can be expected on the mountain.
More snow has fallen at Mt Buller creating an average snow depth of around 53cm of natural snow.
To celebrate the launch of the new Arcade ski, Mt Buller will be giving a demo to exclusive pass holders on Thursday, August 1.
At Dinner Plain, the slopes
continue to stay open thanks to snowy weather over the weekend.
Dinner Plain also has a range of activities from sled dogs to snowshoe tours.
Both the toboggan and ski trails are open at Mt Buffalo and there is plenty of snow coverage.
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.
This Day in History, 1930
SHELL AIRCRAFT DEPOT
A MILESTONE in aviation, when on this day in 1930, the Shell Company officially opened an aircraft refuelling centre at Bowser airstrip.
It was in the first in Victoria, and possibly the first of its kind in Australia.
With the inauguration of a scheduled passenger service between Sydney and Melbourne, Bowser was considered by Shell to be the ideal refuelling centre, and an emergency landing ground in case case of head winds and bad weather.
After the official opening by the Wangaratta Shire president, Cr Brien, the official party attended a banquet.
VET
The importance of water quality in aquariums
THE key to a beautiful aquarium with healthy fish is effective filtration and maintaining water quality.
There are three types of filtration: mechanical (sponges to collect debris), chemical (to absorb specific toxins), and biological (to break down fish waste), with biological filtration being the most important.
Biological filtration
The number one cause of fish loss/death in aquariums (particularly new aquariums) is not having an effective biological filter (biofilter), leading to an accumulation of toxic waste products, particularly ammonia.
Fish excrete ammonia as the end-product of protein metabolism (similar to what we excrete in our urine).
Fish, however, excrete this ammonia through their gills.
Other waste products in an aquarium are fish faeces, uneaten food, and decaying plants, which are also broken down to ammonia.
Ammonia is toxic to fish at 0.1ppm (that is one part in 10 million).
Ammonia is more toxic in water of a higher temperature (e.g., ammonia will be more toxic for tropical fish living in warmer water versus temperate fish living in cooler water) and also a higher pH.
A quality biofilter is essential for breaking down these toxic products through the Nitrogen Cycle, which involves beneficial bacterial colonies converting waste into less harmful compounds.
The Nitrogen Cycle
The Nitrogen Cycle has two stages: Ammonia to Nitrite: Fish waste ends up as ammonia.
Bacteria convert ammonia to nitrite, which is slightly less toxic.
This process starts in the first week of adding fish.
Nitrite to Nitrate: Another group of bacteria converts nitrite to nitrate, which is much less toxic.
This indicates a fully cycled tank, typically taking four to six weeks.
When starting a new aquarium, frequent regular water testing and changes are necessary to keep toxic waste products under
with RSPCA - kb.rspca.org.au
control manually until the Nitrogen Cycle is established.
Once established, routine partial water changes of about 10 to 25 per cent are recommended combined with a gravel clean to remove waste and to help keep your fish healthy.
Maintenance tips
• Aeration is crucial for a healthy biofilter and fish respiration.
Beneficial bacteria require oxygen
• Use a gravel siphon to clean the substrate and remove waste.
• Never use soap or detergents when cleaning an aquarium.
• Replace water with dechlorinated tap water to avoid harming beneficial bacteria which are vital for an effective biofilter.
• Gradually introduce fish to the aquarium to allow filtration bacteria to adapt.
For further advice, consult an experienced aquarist or fish veterinarian.
For more information visit https://kb.rspca. org.au/knowledge-base/why-is-water-qualityimportant-when-setting-up-a-fish-aquarium.
The Bravest Scout returns
with Belinda Harrison, Edgars Books & News
EDGARS Books and News
and the Wangaratta Library are proud to welcome author Ryan Butta back to the area following a successful event in 2022 for his book “The Ballad of Abdul Wade”.
Ryan’s new book “The Bravest Scout at Gallipoli” was released on July 30 and tells the story of Harry Freame (born Wykeham Henry Koba Freame) who was the first Australian soldier to earn the Distinguished Conduct Medal at Gallipoli.
Ryan’s writing is both engaging and authoritative and “The Bravest Scout at Gallipoli” is not just a biography, but an immersive historical investigation.
It is a compelling and meticulously researched narrative that brings to light the extraordinary and largely overlooked story of Harry Freame, an Australian hero whose contributions and sacrifices have been unjustly neglected by history.
The author vividly recounts Freame’s daring exploits on the battlefield, where he risked his life repeatedly to gather critical intelligence and rescue stranded comrades.
Through detailed descriptions and gripping storytelling, Ryan places readers right in the midst of the harrowing conditions of Gallipoli, illustrating the bravery and tenacity that Freame exhibited during one of World War I’s most infamous campaigns.
One of the most poignant
themes in the book is the exploration of Freame’s mixed heritage and the impact it had on his military career and post-war life.
The narrative delves into the persistent rumours that Freame was denied the Victoria Cross due to his half-Japanese background - a heritage he diligently tried to conceal.
After the war, Freame transitioned from a decorated war hero to a soldier settler and champion apple grower.
He was also recruited into Australian intelligence during the lead-up to World War II, a decision that would ultimately cost Freame his life.
Freame’s death upon his return to Australia marks him as the first Australian to die in secret service for his country, a sacrifice that Ryan notes has never been
officially acknowledged.
“The Bravest Scout at Gallipoli” is a must-read for anyone interested in World War I history, Australian military history, or stories of unsung heroes.
Following his talk at the library at 2.30pm on August 21, Ryan will sign copies of “The Bravest Scout at Gallipoli” and “The Ballad of Abdul Wade” for readers; both are available now from Edgars Books & News or on the day.
This is a free event, but bookings are required – visit https://events.humanitix. com/meet-the-author-ryanbutta?hxchl=hex-pfl or call/ drop into Edgars at 55 Murphy Street 5721 3758 or the Wangaratta Library in Docker Street 5721 2366.
For more information please contact:
Amy Ratcliffe 5723 0134
aratcliffe@nemedia.com.au
◆ VISITING AUTHOR: Readers will have the chance to meet author Ryan Butta after his talk on August 21.
◆ BRAVEST SCOUT: Ryan Butta will be returning to Wangaratta to share his new book, The Bravest Scout at Gallipoli.
Margaret relishes her writing life
■ From page 1
Also found dead near the murder scene was Bill ‘Creeper’ Durant, a bushland loner, expert deer-hunter, and a man with a known reputation for stalking campers.
The conclusion at the time was murder-suicide, but as the 10-year anniversary of the massacre draws near, Detective Constable Sally White - the only officer at Edenville’s modest police station - finds herself drawn into the dark world of the notorious Durant family.
As Sally combs the investigation, it becomes all too clear that each murdered hiker had skeletons in their closet - and possible enemies in their past…
The author of three successful crime novels to date - ‘Cutters End’, ‘Stone Town’ and ‘Broken Bay’ - Margaret said the concepts for her books always began with landscape.
For ‘The Creeper’, she pictured the area around Mount Feathertop, and
drew on thoughts that had popped into her mind while bushwalking with friends.
“I thought, what would happen if a woman suddenly came running in the opposite direction, screaming for our help?” she said.
“Would we stop and run towards her, or run away?”
It’s a tantalising story base for a crime writer, though surely a frightening thought for anyone who enjoys walking in the bush, but Margaret said it had not spoilt her recreation time.
“The love of doing it over-rides the scary part,” she said.
As crime novels continue to hold sway over Australian readers, Margaret said she could see the attraction.
“It’s that tantalising aspect of being scared in a safe space,” she said.
The horror of the decade-old crime in the book is in juxtaposition to the life of Margaret’s new protagonist.
After three books featuring her Senior Sergeant Mark Ariti character, the author enjoyed the chance to explore the story through the eyes of Sally White.
“She’s loving life; she has a great boyfriend, loves going out, and is a lovely, well-liked person, then something happens that has her questioning where she lives,” Margaret said.
“I could write 10 more Mark Ariti books, because I know him so well it would be easy, but I want to challenge myself, and I did have the feeling that I didn’t want to flog a dead horse; I like it when Olympians or rock stars go out on top.
“He might come back; I like books that operate in a universe, so I would love to do that.
“I haven’t got rid of Mark, but I enjoyed this character, she was really fun to write.
“Often detectives are older, a bit disgruntled and unhappy with life, but to all
intents and purposes, this is a girl who has everything.”
With a contract which will have her writing books until 2027, Margaret acknowledges that she is one of the lucky ones who could live off her writing, though she has continued to teach a couple of year 12 classes at Cathedral College Wangaratta.
“I never have a lack of ideas - I’ve got solid ideas for four more books,” she said.
“Writing is hard, and the editing process is gruelling; for every book you see, there’s over a year of hard slog that’s gone into it, but I love it - the minute it ceases being a joy, I’ll stop.”
For more information about Margaret’s local author talks, visit https:// edgarsbooksandnews.com.au/authortalk-with-margaret-hickey/ for details on the August 13 Wangaratta event, and https://www.indigoshire.vic.gov.au/ Community/Libraries/Whats-On-at-our-
Irregular cycles
Missed periods
Symptoms whilst on HRT or contraception Herbal treatment
◆ ON THE ROAD: Margaret Hickey loves travelling across the country to meet booksellers, members of her community of fellow crime writers, and the readers who continue to lap up her novels. PHOTO: Kurt Hickling
Libraries/Book-launch-Margaret-Hickeys-The-Creeper.-927043691637 for details about the Beechworth event on August 15.
‘The Creeper’ was released this week.
Dry cough
Wet cough
Post viral fatigue
Persistent sore
Glandular fever
Tonsilitis
Body aches
Headaches
Allergy testing for
and pollens
Bloating
Skin rashes
Tiredness
Perimenopause
Constipation Wind and
Food
Sleep
NorthEast JOBS
Beechworth
Positions exist for motivated, flexible staff to work in our aged care facility as a PCA, RN, EN
Wine Club Coordinator
An opportunity has arisen to join our dynamic team at our family winery, based in Rutherglen, Victoria.
We are looking for a detail-orientated wine lover to take ownership of and grow our Wine Club.
MULTIPLE ROLES AVAILABLE
Casual, Part Time, Full Time, Traineeships
Service Desk Officer
Beechworth Permanent, full time
$73,785.20 - $84,228.48 per annum
L2P Support Officer
Beechworth Permanent, part time (8 hours per week)
$37.34 - $42.62 per hour
Applications close 4pm Sunday 28 July 2024.
Visit www.indigoshire.vic.gov.au/jobs to download the position recruitment kit, and to view instructions on how to apply.
The role involves working closely with elderly people in a team environment and would enable enthusiastic staff to expand on their skills and take on new and challenging roles.
Applications close at 5pm on August 9th, 2024
For further information and a copy of the Position Description, please contact:
Administration
Myrtleford Lodge (03) 5752 2222
CATHEDRAL COLLEGE WANGARATTA
A school of The Anglican Schools Commission (Inc.)
The College seeks applications from suitably experienced persons for the following position:
Cleaner
This is a full-time position.
Please refer to our website for more information. The salary will be determined based on the applicant’s experience but will range between $61,515 and $67,915 plus a split shift allowance.
Please forward your application by Monday August 5, 2024 to the Human Resource Officer, Noelia Araya at recruitment@cathedralcollege.vic.edu.au
Cathedral College Wangaratta is a Child Safe School and an Equal Opportunity Employer
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.
North/Northwest Vic – Concrete Site Maintenance – COSM003
Cohuna – Learning & Development Assistant – LDV007
Moama – Concrete Agi Truck Driver – MOCC001
You will be responsible for the daily
be an extension of our family, sharing our range of wines with happy customers. We are looking for somebody who is warm
willing to be hands-on.
This is a permanent Full Time
inclusive working and learning environment.
TRAINEESHIP
Certificate IV in Outdoor Leadership
Are you keen on working outdoors?
Are you interested in working with young people?
Outdoor School – 15 Mile Creek and Bogong Campuses are seeking young, enthusiastic people who have an interest in Outdoor Education to apply for their 2025 traineeship intake. Positions are available at both campuses for a 12 month appointment starting early December 2024 Further information on the position and how to apply is available by calling 03 57666247 or emailing Rhys.Evans@education.vic.gov.au
The Pinsent Hotel, located in Wangaratta are looking to boost their team.
This busy venue incorporates a large bistro/dining area, Sports Bar, Gaming Room, Bottle Shop and Accommodation. We have roles available in all areas of our bustling venue just waiting for the right people to take them on.
What we’re looking for:
• Passionate people who love what they do
• Reliability
• Excellent communication and presentation skills
• A willingness to learn and grow with the business
• Flexibility to work across days, nights, weekends and public holidays
• Leaders - not just to lead but to join in and work as part of a team
• Great personalities - do you like a laugh, like to talk to people, are kind and understanding of other people’s needs
• Enthusiasm
• People who strive to provide a great customer experience
The following are beneficial, but not essential
• RSA • RSG
• Gaming License
• Food Safety certificate
• Experience. Don’t have any? That’s ok, it may be a great opportunity for you to join our Traineeship program
Perhaps you’re looking for a ‘change of scenery’ and wanting a new career opportunity, this might just be the right place for you!
Please apply today by sending us a cover letter and resume to phemployment@southfork.com.au.
We look forward to meeting you. We are not offering sponsorships for these positions.
Applications close Friday 23/8/2024 at 5.00pm
LEGAL MATTERS
Understanding naturopathy (part 2)
PREVIOUSLY, we uncovered the basics of naturopathy and how we interrupt what the body signs and symptoms are telling us.
Once we have listened to your health story and gained insight into the stressors that are leading to your current symptoms, we use four main tools to assess and treat the problem.
1. Food testing: a simple way to highlight foods that don’t agree with you and create a specific diet plan.
Don’t worry we would never ask a hormonal mum to give up chocolate or a new business owner to completely quit coffee.
The key with our diet plans is finding the right balance for you.
2. Talking to you: asking questions about your past and family history and lifestyle is important.
This is to help us understand your health story and priorities and how to fit the treatment plan in around your family or lifestyle.
3. Pathology testing: we can refer and interpret pathology testing and refer you for specialty hormonal and nutritional testing.
Our aim is to get your results to reflect the optimal levels, so that if you are under stress again (physical, mental, lifestyle)
you won’t crash again so easily.
4. Our body scan: this is probably the highlight of our consultation for most patients.
It gives you a visual of everything that needs addressing and you can see it improve as we work through each of the triggers.
Once we work out what is causing the stress for your body, we come up with a herbal and nutritional prescription to correct any imbalances and nurture the weakest organs.
We also refer to our team of specialist natural health care providers such as chiropractic, massage and osteopathy for body work and counselling/ kinesiology for emotional issues.
As you start to feel better, we put together a list of things you need to do daily to keep yourself well including diet changes, stress management techniques or changes to sleep and exercise habits.
Each step is discussed and negotiated along the way, so you feel in control and educated about your health.
If this sounds like the kind of health care you or your family are looking for, we would love to see you in the clinic.
Bookings can be made online via our website or social media.
Securing your lease: A critical step
before selling your business
AS a business and property lawyer, I’ve seen first hand how crucial a secure and commercially acceptable lease is when selling a retail business.
Many retailers underestimate the importance of their lease agreement in the sale process, potentially jeopardising the entire transaction and significantly impacting the sale price.
Risks of an insecure lease
· Reduced sale price: If your lease is short-term, has unfavourable terms, or is coming to an end without a renewal option, buyers will factor this risk into their offer.
· Failed transactions: Buyers may walk away if they discover the lease can’t be assigned or if the landlord is unwilling to offer favourable terms to a new tenant.
· Business viability: In extreme cases, an insecure lease can threaten the very existence of the business.
Key lease considerations
Before listing your business for sale, review your lease agreement with a focus on these critical areas:
1. Lease term and options: Buyers will be more confident with a lease that extends well beyond the initial payback period of their investment.
2. Assignment clauses: Check the conditions for assigning the lease to a new owner.
3. Rent and outgoings: Excessive costs can deter buyers and impact profitability.
4. Permitted use: Ensure the permitted use clause is broad enough to allow for potential business evolution or diversification.
5. Maintenance and repair obligations: Clear, fair provisions for maintenance and repairs will give buyers confidence in ongoing operational costs.
6. Redevelopment or demolition clauses: If present, understand their implications and consider negotiating their removal or modification.
Strengthening your position
If you find your lease lacking, consider these steps to improve your position:
· Negotiate with your landlord
· Seek professional advice
· Consider exercising renewal options
· Document verbal agreements
· Address outstanding issues
The Victorian context In Victoria, retail leases are governed by the Retail Leases Act 2003.
This Act provides certain protections for tenants, but it’s crucial to understand its limitations.
For instance, the Act doesn’t guarantee a right to renew at the end of the lease term.
As such, securing your ongoing tenancy rights through careful negotiation and documentation is vital.
Moreover, under Section 52 of the Estate Agents Act 1980 (Vic), there are specific disclosure requirements for business sales, including details about the lease.
We are expert commercial and property lawyers and stand ready to assist.
Feel free to book with us for an obligation free 30 Minute Zoom or phone chat if you need to speak to us about your lease or business sale: https://calendly.com/jonathan65u/30min?month=2024-07.
◆ IMPROVE YOUR HEALTH: Naturopathy aims to fix the imbalances in your body to help you feel better.
with Belinda McPherson NORTH EAST NATURAL HEALTH CENTRE
