Tatura Bulletin August Edition 2023

Pictures Courtesy Kaye Watson

MERRIGUM HISTORICAL SOCIETY

The Merrigum Museum at 111-113 Waverley Ave Merrigum is open on the second Sunday of each month 10am to 3pm. Visiting outside these hours is welcome by arrangement.

Entry Adults $5.00 each Children $2.00

For Group Bookings please Phone Flo on 5855 2330

TATURA HALL FOR HIRE

Modern, fully air-conditioned hall for hire with kitchen, BBQ and audio-visual aids. Secure grounds for children to play safely. Great for birthdays, weddings etc.

Licenced. Seats up to 100.

Reasonable hire rates call 0402 303 893

TATURA BULLETIN COMMITTEE

At the recently held Tatura Area Community Bulletin AGM, attended by six people, office bearers elected for 2023/24 were unchanged.

President John Kriesfeld

Secretary Melissa Connors

Treasurer Lois Orr

BUDGIES FOR SALE

Lots to choose from $10 - $15. Please phone 0400 947 547

JOHN'S SHORT STORIES

If you want access to John’s Short Stories for free, please go to johnkriesfeld.substack.com and register.

COMING EVENTS

CWA GOULBURN VALLEY WEST GROUP EXHIBITION

Victory Hall

Hogan Street Tatura

Sunday 10 September.

PINK MORNING TEA

Sunday 7 October

$30 Tickets are on sale now, and must be purchased before October 1, so don’t be shy to pick yours up now by contacting Sharon on 0438 262 172.

LIONS CLUB OF TOOLAMBA

Toe-Tapping Light Lunch

Monday 9 October Cost $15.00

Bookings to Helen Morritt 0439 907 157 helendmorritt@gmail.com

LADIES WHO LUNCH

This is a reimagination of the well-loved Pink Ribbon Breakfast

Sunday 29 October 2023 Eastbank, Shepparton

TAT200

November 25, 2023

Check the website Tatura200.com.au

BIODIVERSITY DAY

A very well attended day was celebrated in Tatura recently.

Sponsored by Landcare, the Goulburn Valley Tree Group Native Nursery invited the public to attend their Biodiversity Day on June 17. The day was full of information for anyone interested in making a positive difference to their environment and community.

It was a hive of information showcasing the range of native plants. John Laing from Dhurringile Landcare showed us his display of insects and crawling spiders which had the attention of many.

Jo Doolan was there with her extensive botanical knowledge to help plan potential native revegetation projects for farms as well as suburban gardens.

The volunteers from Goulburn Valley Tree Group Native Nursery showcased the range of plants available whilst giving advice, cooking sausages, making morning tea, handing out free plants to the kids, and ensuring everyone had a fun day. Dan, our Landcare representative, was the person that helped to make our day possible so a big thanks to you Dan and everyone else that helped on the day. Next year we plan on repeating this fun day as I feel sure everyone went home with a smile on their faces and a plan.

At present we are open Saturday mornings for the month of August at 6 Kerferd St 9 to 11.30 or until stock sells out.

Happy planting!

Tatura Area Community Bulletin

info@tatbulletin.com.au

- Deb

RODNEY CWA

On Thursday, August 3, eleven juniors and four members attended. The girls enjoyed making cards thanks to a wonderful supply of materials provided by Lyn Trezise.

At our meeting on August 10, the competition winner was Lorraine Secomb.

We heard reports on recent events: Lyn was our delegate at the State Conference held at the Melbourne Showgrounds 16/17 June: All resolutions passed. Secretary’s report won by Scarsdale Branch. Increase in membership: Seniors 69%, juniors 39%. Scone challenge won by Morwell branch with 2,122 scones baked. New Tea Towels and Thrifty Gardening Book are available for sale.

Speakers included: Director of Showgrounds, History of the Showgrounds. Emma Gee a stroke victim, her struggles to adjust to life and the challenges presented. A good conference that went well. Thanks Lyn.

The State Creative Arts Exhibition at St Arnaud 28/29 July was attended by some of our members. Such imaginative, creative items to be seen in Handcrafts and Home Industries! Congratulations Beatrice for winning a First for a beret knitted in hand spun wool. The Goulburn Valley West Creative Arts Exhibition is open to the public on Sunday, September 10 at Victory Hall Tatura. There will be a demonstration of spinning, and a display of Naomi Kerr’s miniature creations. Devonshire teas available.

Next meeting September 14 at Tatura Bowls Clubrooms at 1:30 pm. Competition: a small or unusual pot plant.

- Beatrice Greaves, publicity

Juniors With Their Cards

Receiving a Helping Hand

STROKE

A stroke happens when the brain does not get the blood it needs due to a blockage or a burst artery in the brain. The brain cells die quickly when they do not receive the oxygen and nutrients that are supplied through blood. A stroke affects a person depending on where in the brain it has happened or how big it is. It can cause muscle weakness, or problems with speaking, hearing or memory loss.

To recognize a stroke- F.A.S.T

Face - check the face, has the mouth drooped?

Arms - Inability to lift arms?

Speech - is the speech slurred or confused?

Time - is critical. Call 000 if you see any of these signs.

Strokes are preventable

- After the age of 45, blood pressure and cholesterol are risk factors that need to be checked regularly. Visit your GP and take the time for health checks.

- Inactivity can lead to increased blood pressure and cholesterol, stay active and exercise regularly

- If you smoke, you are twice as likely to have a stroke, quitting decreases the risk of blood clots.

- Drinking too much alcohol can increase blood pressure. The lesser you drink, the lower is the harm from alcohol.

- It is important to reduce the intake of animal fats, processed foods, salt, and sugars to prevent strokes. A balanced diet with fresh fruit, vegetables, lean meats and fish is ideal.

National Stroke week in the second week of August encourages the community to fight stroke together so that you or your loved ones can continue to enjoy life during and after recovery from a stroke. Please take the time to share this information with family and friends as you never know when it can save a life.

Community Health Coordinator

GV HEALTH’S CHILDREN’S ALLERGY CLINIC

Following a successful one-year pilot, Goulburn Valley (GV) Health has launched Victoria’s first public regional Children’s Allergy Clinic.

The permanent service operating out of GV Health’s Graham Street campus aims to improve access to allergy management services for children in regional Victoria.

GV Health’s Divisional Operations Director of Subacute and Ambulatory Care, Patricia Collier, said the launch of the Children’s Allergy Clinic was supported by the Victorian Department of Health and the Royal Children’s Hospital (RCH), which allowed for extensive staff training in specialist allergy management areas. “Grant funding from the Victorian Department of Health was provided to support a collaborative pilot project between RCH and GV Health for the establishment of a paediatric allergy clinic, Our paediatricians and nurses were given training by the RCH during the pilot period, which ran from May 2022 to May 2023. During this time, a total of 408 appointments were held in the clinic. The pilot was so successful that the Children’s Allergy Clinic has now become a permanent service at GV Health,” Ms Collier said. The establishment of the Children’s Allergy Clinic at GV Health removes the travel burden for families who previously had to travel to Melbourne to access paediatric allergy services.

“Before our Children’s Allergy Clinic opened, children had to join a waiting list to be seen by allergy specialists in the city, therefore the establishment of the service at GV Health allows for children to be seen quicker and diagnosed and monitored more efficiently closer to home,” she said.

TATURA PRIMARY SCHOOL

On Wednesday the 2nd of August, Foundation and Grade 1 students from Tatura Primary School celebrated 100 Days of School. Children enjoyed dressing up as 100-yearold people and participating in fun activities. We saw some lovely wigs, glasses, walking sticks, woollen jumpers, long skirts, beads, trousers, and hats.

The day started off with smiling faces as children and teachers shared their creative costumes with their class. Our school community was able to share in the excitement as students paraded their costumes on the deck and performed a beautiful counting song for all to enjoy. Students then rotated throughout the day to decorate a 100 collage, a creative picture using the number 100 and they also participated in maths activities relating to the number 100.

A special dance video featuring our students and teachers was also created to mark this special occasion. It is available for everyone to see through Tatura Primary School’s Facebook page. In the afternoon students participated in old fashioned games outside in the sunshine. A very big thank you to our Foundation and Grade 1 families for the effort they put into organising costumes. A terrific day enjoyed by all!

TATURA FIRE BRIGADE

The Tatura Fire Brigade is seeking your assistance looking for old photographs.

It is interesting to note that the brigade is one of the oldest continuous public institutions in Tatura, with photographic and written records going back to the early 1890’s.

The Brigade has for some time been collecting and restoring many old photos held from its formation in 1893-4 to the present day.

We are seeking assistance with anyone who has a photo of the old station in Hogan St near where the Ampol station is now, backing on to the railway line.

If you can assist, please contact George Taylor on 0417 113 273.

In the collection is a photo of the brigade members in 1911 and a rare photo of the Chief Officer of Country Fire Brigades Board which was formed in 1890 as the predecessor of the CFA.

Other photos in the collection include Championship and Discipline teams in the 1930’s and the Fire Brigade Brass Band of the same period. We also have framed, coloured, and decorated ‘Illuminated Addresses’ recognizing former members service from well over 100 years ago.

A World War 1 Honour Board of members who served is also held by the brigade.

Many names are linked to families still in Tatura today or recorded on street names. There is much interesting family and town history involved in these records, which will form part of a display in the new station.

- Bill Stockdale, Secretary

Unveiling Creativity: Tatura Community House Set to Open Walkway Gallery

A New Hub for Art and Expression Blooms in Tatura

In an exciting development for art enthusiasts and the local community alike, the Tatura Community House is gearing up to introduce its latest venture: the Walkway Gallery. This innovative space’s goal is to become a beacon of artistic expression, fostering creativity and providing a platform for both budding and established artists to showcase their work.

A Nexus of Creativity: The Walkway Gallery

Nestled within the heart of the Tatura Community House, the Walkway Gallery promises to be a unique and captivating space that connects the community through art. The gallery takes advantage of an underutilised space—a walkway that serves as a thoroughfare within the Community House—transforming

it into a vibrant and engaging hub for artistic exploration. The Walkway Gallery will feature a curated series of exhibitions, workshops, and events that cater to a diverse range of artistic tastes and interests.

Empowering Local Artists

One of the primary goals of the Walkway Gallery is to nurture and uplift local talent. The gallery is set to offer emerging artists a platform to showcase their work, fostering connections with the local community and beyond. Established artists will also find a space to share their creations, helping to enrich the artistic discourse in Tatura.

Showcasing Artistic Diversity

The Walkway Gallery is committed to representing the diversity of artistic expression. From paintings and sculptures to photography and digital art, the gallery will feature an array of mediums and styles. This diversity will not only cater to varied artistic preferences but also promote cross-disciplinary collaboration and exploration.

Fostering a Sense of Belonging

The Tatura Community House has always been

a gathering point for the town's residents, and the Walkway Gallery is set to reinforce that sense of belonging. By offering a space that is not just about viewing art, but also about connecting with others who share a passion for creativity, the gallery aims to strengthen the community's fabric.

Official Opening and Beyond

The Tatura Community House would like to thank local creatives, Sharron Handley, Cheryl Dedman, Jacome Dedman and Naomi Kerr for coming onboard for the project and will help bring the creative local eye needed for its success.

The grand opening of the Walkway Gallery (to occur in November 2023, date to be announced) is a much-anticipated event, marking a significant step towards enriching Tatura's cultural scene.

This innovative space promises to be a nurturing ground for artistic expression, a melting pot of creativity, and a bridge between artists and their community. With its commitment to inclusivity, engagement, and the celebration of diverse artistic voices, the Walkway Gallery is sure to become a true gem in Tatura's cultural crown.

LOCAL AUTHOR DI WALKER

Notre Dame teacher, Di Walker, has just launched her third middle grade novel – Saving Charli.

Like her debut novel Unpacking Harper Holt and second novel, Every Thing We Keep , Saving Charli is a heartfelt story of loss and grief however balanced with the importance of friendship and hope.

‘My novels start with the name of the main character, and I can picture where they might be, or what they are doing and then I just begin to write,’ Di said. ‘I don’t know where the story is heading, I just let it unfold. It takes about six weeks to write the first draft and then about a year to edit before it is ready to show my publisher.’

Saving Charli follows the grief that Charli experiences after the passing of her twin sister, Freya. Told from the alternating perspectives of Charli and her two best friends, Blair and Queenie, the trio face the impact of loss and how they support each other.

‘I believe that the readers I write for can handle the emotional journey because this is also a story about hope.’

During the writing process, Di called on some of the Notre Dame staff for feedback and expertise. ‘I am so thankful to the staff who read drafts, gave me feedback and helped me to refine the manuscript before I sent it to my publisher. I also had some students read it – I am always looking for readers in my target group to read a draft and let me know their thoughts.’

Saving Charli is available at Collins Booksellers in Shepparton as well as all good book retail outlets throughout Australia and online.

John and Di Walker

QUILTS OF VALOUR

The July edition of the Tatura Bulletin featured a photo and article about a `Quilt of Valour’ and several enquiries have prompted me to enlarge on this very special gift. It was presented to me in April by members of the Freemasons Army Lodge of which my late husband, Rod Wells, was a member. It is presented to serving and past members of the Australian Defence Forces as a tribute to their service.

The quilts have an interesting background. In 2010 Victorian resident

Helen was touched when her son, who was serving in Afghanistan, was wounded, and sent to recover at a hospital in Germany. While there he was awarded a quilt made by American members of `Quilts of Valour.’ Through this thoughtful gift Helen was inspired to establish `Quilts of Valour Australia.’ Since 2010 over 3000 quilts have been awarded to serving and retired ADF personnel or their families.

On presenting the quilt to me the founder, Helen, wrapped the quilt around me in a special gesture of love and gratitude. Each quilt is personalised with the name of the awardee and the maker.

QOV Australia always looking for new quilters to their group to supply a huge backlog; donations to their project are also welcome. More information can be obtained from their website quiltsofvalour.com.au or at qovoz@hotmail.com. Mailing address is PO Box 9057 Harkaway Vic 3806, or you can contact me, Pam Wells, on 0428 561 306.

The Quilt of Valour

CWA HARSTON BRANCH

Unfortunately, the best intended plans don’t always go the way we wish. This was the case recently when our August meeting was postponed from Moyola Aged care due to a Covid outbreak. This will now be held during January, as a get together meeting instead. After a quick ring around we went back to the Bowls Club where ten members came together to discuss the busy few weeks ahead of us all.

The Goulburn Valley West Group Conference was held at the Harston Hall, with members bringing their own lunch until the Shepparton Council lifts its Covid sharing procedures in their buildings.

The CWA State President Mrs. Jenny Nola attended, with a good representation of local members and visitors to learn of the excellent work the volunteers do all over Victoria. Jenny has been a member for a number of years, following her mother being a member.

Harston Members are reminded to get their entries finished in time for the CWA Goulburn Valley West Group Exhibition to be held on September 10 at the Victory Hall here in Tatura.

Members brought along their small items they have been working on for the Branch entry, as it’s a competition to see if we can win the trophy over the other local branches, winning isn’t everything…or is it?

Mrs. Glenys Eberle and Mrs. Freda Clements have volunteered to make scones for the Devonshire Teas on behalf of Harston. With other members happy to help stewardess or work in the kitchen on the day. This is a major fundraiser for the CWA G.V.West group and assists our Group to stay functional. Without fundraising by the volunteers, we couldn’t assist with the Association. Admission is only $10.00 which includes a Devonshire Tea. Members are reminded they must pay the same as the public to attend and support this worthy cause, and I hear the raffle is worth winning. Back to the recent meeting where the winner of the best Bloom was Mrs. Lucy Harper, 2nd Mrs. Merle Krause, and 3rd was Mrs. Margaret Chance. The competition was to bring an item for the inclusion of the Exhibition Branch 5 small items entry. The items chosen by the judges was 1st Mrs. Margaret Chance, 2nd Mrs. Faye Alexander and 3rd Mrs. Glenys Eberle. Mrs. Margaret Chance made and donated a fruit cake suitable for the Melbourne Royal Show which Harston Branch members have attended in the past. These fruit cakes are either sold or used during the show at the CWA State Cafeteria.

At the next Harston Meeting on Monday September 11, the competition is, ‘A photo of yourself under 5 years of age’. More of a guessing competition I would suggest. Please note this is a change to our syllabus from swapping September to October due to the wet conditions.

- Mrs. Marilyn Pell

Mrs Napier with Her Winning Trophy

TATURA BULLETIN AGM 2023 President’s Report

This is our 39th year of publishing the Bulletin and once again there are many people, groups, businesses, and organisations to thank. However, one company that I believe needs special thanks is Tatura Milk. They generously provide an office, free of charge, for the Bulletin team to work from and do not ask anything in return. This enables us to keep our advertising charges at a low rate as we don’t have rental overheads to cover. Although our monthly balance sheet is now becoming very tight due to a whole range of increasing costs, our last increase in advertising prices was 2016.

We are well aware that many of our local businesses are doing it tough due to their own rising costs, and in many cases on-line competition, but they have remained loyal and committed to the Tatura Bulletin and on behalf of the committee, I would like to thank them and ask that our readers continue to support these local businesses whenever possible as it is only through the ongoing support of these businesses that we are able to produce a high-quality publication and deliver it free each month.

The Bulletin currently has a circulation of almost 3,500 and is delivered free of charge to every home in Tatura and Toolamba as well as selected outlets in Murchison, Ardmona, Merrigum and Mooroopna.

The ongoing monthly publication of the Bulletin is truly a wonderful team effort involving many different sections of the community and in order to thank all of these generous people, I will start at the beginning, which is the wide range of articles and information sent into us each month.

The local Tatura, Murchison, Toolamba, Harston, Dhurringile and Merrigum communities keep us supplied with a wide range of reports on a wide variety of local activities. Without these articles there is no reason for the Bulletin to exist and it is very satisfying knowing that the Bulletin continues to be an important part of the Tatura and surrounding districts social fabric. The monthly expectation from the local community is that the Bulletin will contain something of interest to them, whether it be a report from a wide range of organisations, school information, kindergarten updates, church news, Community House news, Shepparton council updates, library happenings, historical society information, budding authors, world events for the month, the book report, Ma Merle with her insights into behaviour, a new recipe to try, an interview with

Project Officer (Horticulture)

• Salary: $91,418 - $103,725 Plus Superannuation

• Fixed Term until 20 February 2024

• Usual work location: Tatura with current hybrid work arrangements available

Supporting thriving, productive and sustainable communities, environments and industries, at DEECA we’re focused on creating a liveable, inclusive and sustainable Victoria with thriving natural environments where the community is at the centre of everything we do.

The Project Officer (Horticulture) will be responsible for delivering key traditional and digital extension activities. This will support the design and delivery of services and resources for the horticulture sector in northern Victoria and statewide. Assisting to make better decisions to achieve economic growth and build farm business resilience.

This position will work closely to build relationships with internal and external stakeholders including horticulturalists and private service providers to contribute to the development of scope and rationale for potential future investment initiatives and funding.

The position is expected to maintain connection to the Statewide horticulture team and broader Agriculture Services team network of state-wide colleagues and have opportunities to undertake training and development through formal and on the job training opportunities.

For further information please visit the www.careers.vic.gov.au website and search under position number 020990.

Applications close at midnight on Monday, 4 September 2023. R40126

local entities, tips on training your dog, the children’s page, a short story, dissection of the English language or simply participation in the word search, Sudoku or Bulletin quiz, helps to keep the dedicated Bulletin team motivated.

Our small band of dedicated volunteers work tirelessly to edit, proof read and put the Bulletin together each month, as well as contacting advertisers, working on our finances and talking to contributors. I would like to give Lois Orr, Melissa Connors, Janice Dreyer, Bill Ashcroft, Carol Ryan, Wendy Wilson, and Helen Hoskin a special mention for this.

Rodney Printers then do an exceptional job of laying out the Bulletin and printing it and then George Ferguson bundles up the copies ready for our small team of dedicated locals to walk the streets and put them into mailboxes. If for some reason you don’t receive the Bulletin, there are always spare copies available at Rodney Printers in Ross Street.

The success of any enterprise is dependent upon the cohesiveness and initiative of the leadership team and the Bulletin is very fortunate to have an excellent committee who are happy to work tirelessly with little or no recognition, in order to produce a great publication each month for the local community. Almost all other community publications of a similar standard employ paid staff and are sold for between one and two dollars. The Bulletin has been around in various formats for 39 years and hopefully it will continue to exist in some form in the future and continue to play an important role in community life. However, every successful enterprise needs to rejuvenate itself at various times so that it stays relevant, and my belief is that the Bulletin has now reached one of these rejuvenation periods. We are therefore looking for a few energetic and creative people to join the Bulletin committee and learn the ropes so that when it is time to transition from the current committee, we will have several enthusiastic and capable people ready to take over and continue the proud tradition of the Tatura Bulletin for many years to come.

Finally, to the many readers of the Bulletin, I would ask that you continue to support the Bulletin, whether it be by supporting our advertisers, sending in articles, stories and photos or simply by the occasional word of encouragement.

- John Kriesfeld, President.

Monday – Friday 10am – 4pm

Saturday 10am -12:30pm

Ph: 03 5824 3059

Mob: 0493 074 805

Email: opshop@generations.org.au

TATURA GALLERY BY MIM

and Molly Stevens, who plays U13 division 1 netball with the Tatura Hurricanes, kindly agreed to answer a few questions for the Bulletin.

I know from a netball and football club perspective we would love a secondary school. That is probably a big ask but it would enable us to have a lot more juniors involved across our sports’ clubs.

If you had a six-week holiday starting tomorrow where would you go? I would go over to Europe and enjoy the nice warm weather and the sunshine. Are you currently watching or listening to anything?

I saw the Barbie movie and I really enjoyed that. I am not much of a TV watcher, but I have been watching a lot of sport lately, particularly the Matildas matches and the Netball World Cup. If you could have any obscure super power what would it be?

The obvious one is the power to read people’s minds, but I actually don’t think I would like that. I think being able to make the sun shine everyday would be nice. It is always a beautiful day if there is sunshine.

What do you most value in a friend?

Molly Stevens

How has the netball season been going? It has been going really well. We have won a few, lost a few but it’s a really fun team. Are you going to get into finals?

Yes, I think we will.

Do you have any hobbies apart from netball? Yes, sports aerobics, cheerleading, athletics, and boxing. I also like to draw sometimes.

Tell us about your aerobics

How is the netball season going?

It is going really well. A couple more wins and we should make finals a certainty. It is an improvement on where we were at this stage in the last couple of seasons.

Do you have any other hobbies apart from netball?

Netball is definitely one of my big hobbies.

I also walk my dogs and hangout with my friends. I am a schoolteacher in Kyabram. What is your favourite thing about Tatura?

I love the community feel. I love that I have made lots of friends here through netball and I love the way that the community is so involved in the club and that there is lots of support from everyone. It is very close-knit community.

I value kindness, generosity, and loyalty. Also, someone who is excited about your achievements and happy to see you succeed. It is important for a friend to be supportive. Who do you admire?

I admire my mum. As I get older, I realise just how much she did for me to support my schooling and my sport. She always made it look very easy and my sisters and I were always where we needed to be. She had time for everyone.

What is your favourite word?

My favourite word is effervescent. The sound of it is really cool and it is the perfect adjective to describe some of the great people I know.

On Thursday we are driving to Adelaide for nationals where I will compete solo and in cheer leading. This is my third year and I love it.

How did you go at the competition last year? Last year I actually won the title of best in Australia for my level. That was against 14 others and this year I am up against a similar number.

(Editor’s note: Molly came fifth in Australia for her solo, and her team from Shepparton’s Revival Aerobics Studio, came first for Cheer. In addition, her coaches received the National award for Coaches of the Year.)

What is your favourite thing about Tatura? I really love how everybody knows each other and it is a really nice town. It is really easy to get everywhere because everything is in the one place.

Is there anything you think could be improved or added to Tatura?

I think a clothing store might be nice. If you had six weeks holiday starting tomorrow, where would you go?

I would go to Fiji or Hawaii because I love swimming and warm weather.

Are you watching or listening to anything at the moment?

I am watching the ‘Summer I Turned Pretty’. I listen to all types of music.

If you could have an obscure superpower what would it be?

It would be invisibility because you could move around without anyone knowing where you are.

What do you value most in a friend?

I value honesty and loyalty.

Who do you admire?

My mum, definitely. There is a lot to admire. She has a very good career, she’s very nice and she knows everyone. She’s just…. yes.

Molly Boyle

TATURA RSL

On Saturday, July 22, a farewell afternoon tea took place for veteran Robert Mathieson and his wife Helen at the RSL Club Rooms. This event was attended by many local community members, relatives, friends, neighbours, and associates. Rob is a Life Member of the Tatura RSL and has been a very proactive member for many years in this community through the RSL and likewise Legacy, based at Shepparton which covers the Tatura district. He took on various executive and other administrative roles for several years within these organisations. His focus, direction, determination, leadership, and public speaking skills, all were done with the highest integrity and respect. A guest speaker and previous State Parliament Member, Jeanette Powell spoke of her many meetings and discussions with Rob and his genuine persistence and determination in regard to the Mactier Statue project commencing in 2010 and the subsequent unveiling in 2014. It was quite apparent that a mutual respect existed between Jeanette and Rob. With ‘tongue in cheek,’ Jeanette remarked that when she was no longer the Parliament Representative, she no longer had to endure Rob’s persistence. President of Tatura RSL Robin Fairchild then spoke of the commitment and dedication of Rob who solely took on the Water Tower Mural project through the Tatura RSL and brought it to fruition with the financial help of Tatura Rotary. Robin Fairchild thanked Rob for his service and dedication to Tatura RSL.

For information and from a Tatura RSL perspective, Rob was at the helm of both Projects being the Mactier Statue and the Water Tower Mural project which collectively took several years to complete. Both projects took out the ‘Event of the Year’ (in their respective years) at the Australia Day Celebrations at Tatura.

In response, Rob paid tribute to his wife Helen for her support and guidance in the roles he undertook and whilst they will miss the Tatura Community where they have been very happy, they look forward to a sea change at Warrnambool. Rob intends to have a more lay back lifestyle devoid of public commitments and to pursue much fishing. Helen, also an RSL member, responded to the speakers and said they look forward to another chapter in their lives as retirees. The farewell was treated to an afternoon tea of the traditional home baked style and provided by the Senior Citizen members and many helpers. It was truly delicious, and we thank all those involved. A particular thank you goes to Veronica and Margaret.

At 11am on Thursday, August 3, at the Tatura Cemetery, a short service was conducted at the gravesite of Donald Raymond Aylett, killed in action on the 6th August 1967 at Phuoc Tuy-South Vietnam. He was aged just 22 years. Some 524 Australian Soldiers were killed in this war. Tatura RSL President and Vietnam veteran Robin Fairchild met with four other Tatura residents at the cemetery for this Commemorative Service. This date, the 3rd of August, marks the arrival of the Australian Army Training Team in South Vietnam in 1962.

Lest we forget.

MURCHISON MEN’S SHED

It's been two months since the opening of our new shed, and members have been kept active making and installing shelving, installing wheels on woodworking benches, re-stacking shelves and rearranging the work areas. Bob and Rob have been working on installing cement sheeting and making mobile screens in the welding and metal area.

Gary from Chevington Metal Tools will be delivering and demonstrating our new metal craft tools we have ordered.

Ian has been busy painting the nutcracker soldiers, so they can be on display at Christmas.

John and Ian have commenced making a second six sandbag filler for the SES. Wal has taken Andrew under his wing and have finished restoring a garden seat and have now started on a second seat.

Our membership has increased to 23 members, and we welcome Gavin Lock as our newest member. Experience is appreciated but not necessary to become a member, as our aim is the friendship of men regardless of age or background.

Members are welcome to be involved in community projects, or just socialise and communicate with other men over a coffee and a chat. New members are always welcome. Contact: Dennis 0428 148 210 or Con 0421 525 665.

As part of this year’s Men's Shed Week, we would like to join in the 30year AMSA celebrations and also celebrate our tenth year by holding an Open Day at our new shed at 10a Watson Street, Murchison, on Saturday September 9, from 10 am to 2.00 pm.

We are proud of what we have achieved, and look forward to showing people around the shed, and promoting ourselves to gain new members. A free sausage sizzle will be available after 12.00 noon, whilst free coffee, tea and biscuits will be available all day.

Email: murchisonmensshed@gmail.com or just turn up on a Wednesday between 10.00 am and 3.00 pm.

Coming Events:

Sunday September 3 Father’s Day

Wednesday September 6 Members Lunch 12.00 noon Chef Rob Cornelious

Saturday September 9 Open Day 10.00am -3.00pm. Free BBQ, all welcome. Toys and products for sale.

Saturday September 16 - sausage sizzle 8.00 am - 2.00 pm, Murchison Pharmacy

Wednesday November 22 - GV Health Bowel Cancer Presentation - Con Scarvelis, Secretary

- Mal Watts, Tatura RSL member.

The Graveside Service

50 YEARS AGO

Life In the Philippines

Tatura Rotary Club exchange student Miss Janine Rea who has been in the Philippines for the past six months tells of some of her experiences as an exchange student in that country.

I am having an interesting, educational, and thrilling time, it’s a fantastic country with wonderful people. (Janine grew up in Toolamba, studied to become a doctor and has recently retired).

Bushranger’s Great Grandson

Residents of Tatura and district will soon have the opportunity of seeing the great grandson of famous bushranger Ben Hall driving a Cobb and Co. coach along Hogan Street. Tatura Apex Club President, Mr Alan Clement, said yesterday that to assist Apex in their drive for support of Foundation 41 (helping disabled children), Ben Hall would be driving a Cobb and Co. coach around Australia.

Cr Calder Resigns

Rodney Shire’s senior councillor Cr A. T. Calder of the Merrigum Riding has announced his resignation from council. He has been on council for 18½ years but didn’t state the reason for handing in his resignation.

Mr K Ryan Nominates

Well known Tatura footballer Kevin Ryan intends to stand for the seat on Rodney Shire Council which becomes vacant through the resignation of Merrigum Riding Councillor Cr A. T Calder.

Mr Ryan, who is a Harston dairy farmer, has already conferred with Cr Calder and has taken out nomination papers.

Young Farmers

Twenty-three-year-old Keren McLaren of the Tatura Young Farmers has been awarded the 1973 Shell Travel Award to Western Australia. She will spend five to six weeks as guest of the Junior Farmer Movement WA.

Engagement

Receiving congratulations on the announcement of their engagement are Jenny Smith and Colin Johnson. Jenny is the daughter of Mr and Mrs L Smith of Albert St Tatura and Colin is the son of Mr and Mrs E Johnson Bakewell St Bendigo. (Often seen at the Tatura Bowls Club).

Tatura Fire Brigade Inspection

After an impressive parade drill, during which Captain Geoff Wright accompanied ACO Rothsay on an inspection of senior and junior firemen, the Brigade formed two groups to take part in a fire fighting drill using the Small Town Unit and the Front Mounted Pumper. This exercise gave Zone Office Rothsay an opportunity to see how well the Tatura firemen work together under emergency conditions.

Football

Tatura players, officials and supporters had the heart-breaking experience of losing the vital

by Andy Crawford

game against United on Saturday in the last minute after leading and looking the superior side all day.

Tatura 11-14 (80) lost to United 13-7 (85)

Tatura Senior Team

B P Hansen, A Serra, R Stammers

HB P Connors, T Tamburro, W Gladman

C J Hicks, T Antonio, T Dunlop

HF S Cohen, J Greenwood, A Ranson

F M Kelly, R Downie, R Morris

Foll F Houlihan, N Smith

Rover F McMahon

19th S O’Toole, 20th T Telford

Goal kickers

J Greenwood 3, F McMahon 3, N Smith 2, R Downie 2, S Cohen

Best Players

T Antonio, N Smith, J Greenwood, F McMahon, F Houlihan, J Hicks, T Dunlop.

Under 13’s Win Premiership

Tatura Under 13 football team won the premiership on Saturday when they defeated Haslem St in a thriller. Scores in this game were Tatura 6-1 defeating Haslem St 5-6.

Tatura just got up to be premiers with a goal when there was only one minute to go.

Goal kickers were Russell Franz 2, Peter Hansford, B Ritchie, Andrew McCallum and Bruce Collison.

Tatura’s best players were Bruce Collison, Andrew McCallum, Peter Cantlin, Greg French, Alan Lanyon and Russell Franz.

Hill Top Golf Associates

Congratulations to Edna Starritt and Lois Hill for winning the Edna Starritt four ball Cup. Both played excellent golf with a convincing win over their opponents Peg O’Brien and Helen Cowin, the match ending 6-5. Netball Grand Final

The excitement at its highest was somewhat dampened by the absence of President Fran McHugh who is a patient in Prince Henry’s Hospital. Fran, who is retiring this year, has spent many hours with the committee to give each girl who plays netball a better game. MTS, who were undefeated all year, defeated Rivals.

Best players were Phyl Bonadesi, Chris Marks, Debbie Russell, Patricia McDonald and Marie Elrington.

Amazing

It happens very rarely in any sport but on Saturday there were two mothers who had four daughters playing in netball finals one after the other. The mothers and daughters were Mrs Nancy Turnour with daughters Heather, Michella, Katheryn and Shirley, and Mrs Norma Russell with daughters Debbie, Kerry, Susan and Sandra.

- Andy Crawford

LIBRARY NEWS

Psychological thrillers making their way to the Goulburn Valley.

Goulburn Valley Libraries will welcome author Marion Hughes to speak about her new psychological thriller I’m Back, the second book in The Dark Illusion trilogy. Marion will visit the Shepparton Library on Thursday 31st August at 6.30pm.

Marion writes fast-moving, action-based thrillers with many twists and turns. She is currently working on the final book of her trilogy The Girl In the Background, due to be released in late 2023.

Watch Your Back, the first book in the series, introduces the twists and turns, greed, and deception within the wealthy Lorenzo family. Marion has now released I'm Back, the second book in the trilogy, continuing the story with Angelina Lorenzo, on the run and out to exact her revenge on those next on her list.

Marion will share various aspects of her books - the drama and thrills - and will also talk about her writing process. If you have plans to write a book or want to know the difference between writing a stand-alone book and a series, come along and talk to Marion.

Marion Hughes has previously worked as a secondary school English teacher and Special Education educator, inspiring a love of literacy amongst disengaged teenage readers, students with disabilities, ESL students and juvenile offenders. She has written and published a series of literacy resources and short stories in Australia and Japan over the past fifteen years.

If you would like to join Marion Hughes at the Shepparton Library, please contact the library on 1300 374 765 or email shepparton@ gvlibraries.com.au. Copies of Watch Your Back and I’m Back will be available for purchase, with cash sales only available.

For more information:

Bronwyn Cole Program Co-ordinator, Goulburn Valley Libraries

Tel: 1300 374 765

Email: bronwync@gvlibraries.com.au

Marion Hughes

TATURA HOSPITAL AND PARKVILLA AGED CARE LADIES’ AUXILIARY AGM REPORT

The Auxiliary has had another productive year despite our numbers being only 12 members with around 6 - 8 attending each meeting. Nevertheless, we do work as much as we can to raise funds to support our local hospital and aged care facility.

Office Bearers elected for this previous year have been President: Janice Dreyer; Vice President: Angela Lombardozzi; Secretary: Jill Clapperton; Treasurer: Trish Warnett; Hospital Reference Committee representatives: Trish Warnett and Anne Sacco.

Jill Clapperton handed in her resignation as secretary and member of our Auxiliary at our May meeting. We will definitely miss the excellent job she has done in this role and wished her well for the future.

A Christmas luncheon was held in December at Lagozinno's Top Pub and some staff and residents of Parkvilla were able to attend. Thank you to hospital staff who presented us with a voucher from One4One cafe, which we were able to use for one of our meetings, as well as collecting scones and cakes for two meetings back at Hodson House. We also provided a hamper for staff and gifts of lolly cups for residents and a box of chocolate eggs at Easter.

The raffle at our last AGM raised $72 and we ran a very successful one for Christmas raising a total of $1,470. Thank you to Heather Clapp for purchasing and making up the hamper as the prize for that raffle. As we didn't have the usual Mothers' Day raffle, we held one during this month and it is being drawn today and has raised over $1,100 plus any sold today. Thank you to Margaret Normington for arranging the donation from Unilever for this raffle and thank you to Tatura Pharmacy for their donation as well.

We held two Sausage Sizzles outside Tatura Family Butchers where they provided not only the BBQ and implements but also donated all sausages to us. This allowed us to raise $115.00 the first time and $128.50 the second. Thanks to Trish Warnett for donating the onions on both occasions. It was decided not to hold any more there until warmer months as it is an extremely cold spot when the wind is cool. This year we have continued to provide the hospital with a subscription to the Shepparton News and look forward to hearing from the new Director of Nursing/Manager of the hospital as to anything wanted for us to fund during the coming year. In February we assisted with morning tea for the 100 Lap Challenge at Tatura Pool which raised $6,890, and we usually help with afternoon tea on hospital Sunday for which a date is yet to be arranged this year.

Thank you to Angela Lombardozzi's husband for pruning the roses at the hospital. Thank you to all those who sold raffle tickets through the last year. Thank you to Trish Warnett for organizing tables and chairs for raffle ticket selling, constructing ticket selling books for members and booking the hall for today. In fact, thank you to all members for their service to the Auxiliary this year and hopefully 2023-2024 will be even more successful.

- Janice Dreyer, President

HOSPITAL AUXILIARY AGM

Our Tatura Hospital and Parkvilla Ladies Auxiliary had 24 attendees at the AGM this year and all enjoyed an interesting talk from Claire Ewart-Kennedy, Director of GV Health Foundation and Engagement. This was followed by an afternoon tea. Office bearers elected for the coming year are

President - Janice Dreyer, Vice President - Angela Lombardozzi, Secretary - Carol Ryan, Assistant Secretary - Margaret Normington, Treasurer - Trish Warnett

Hospital Reference Committee reps - Trish Warnett and Anne Sacco. The raffle held recently was drawn by the guest speaker with winners being:

1st prize - Marilyn Pell, 2nd prize - Michelle Lamire, 3rd prize - Margaret Normington. The smaller $1 ticket raffle on the day was won by Jenny Bordett. Much appreciation is given to Tatura Pharmacy, Unilever and Lagozzino's Top Pub for donations of goods.

I have included with this article a copy of our Annual Report and ask that any person who might be interested in joining our friendly group feel free to call at any of our monthly meetings on the 4th Thursday of each month at Hodson House (entry from the car park behind the hospital) where you will be made most welcome. For any further queries please don't hesitate to contact me (Janice) on 0431 777 830 at any time. We are most fortunate to have a hospital in such a small town and want to make sure it stays here.

- Janice Dreyer,President

Carol, Janice, Claire, Trish and Bernadette

I was reading recently about the old saying that a dog’s bark is worse than its bite and it apparently came into use in the mid-1600s and refers to the fact that a barking dog is too busy barking to actually bite you. Experts in the behaviour of dogs say that a barking dog is either afraid or giving a warning not to come any closer, while a dog that is willing to bite is not afraid; he is aggressive and will growl, not bark. As I was reading this it reminded me of a couple of situations which I will now share with you. Many years ago, I began working at a local tomato processing plant that was named after a very colourful parrot. One of my new jobs was to co-ordinate the arrival of tomatoes into the factory so that the quantity matched up with the amount required to satisfy the planned production of tomato soup, paste and sauce. Naturally, if the factory was going to process 75,000 tonnes of tomatoes to satisfy production over a twelveweek period, you didn’t want all the tomatoes turning up at once. At the same time, if you planned on processing 6,000 tonnes of tomatoes during the week, you needed to make something with them.

The factory manager thought it might help my understanding of the whole process if I accompanied one of our field officers on one of his visits to a local grower. The field officer, who I will call Garry (not his real name) had an old Labrador dog called McKenzie (his real name) that accompanied him on all of his trips. Garry and I drove out in an old ute (or utility vehicle for those of you who are unfamiliar with the vernacular) with McKenzie sitting happily in the back to see the local farmer. We turned off the highway and drove down a fairly long driveway to the farm and Garry and I got out and chatted to the farmer about ripening rates, crop yield and the weather.

While we were doing this, the farmer’s dog, which was a cross between a Doberman and a horse wandered up to inspect us. It was easily the biggest dog I have ever seen. It was so tall it simply peered over the top of the ute’s tray to sniff McKenzie. McKenzie, however, showed no interest what-so-ever in the huge dog. He didn’t even look at him. He just settled down and treated the other dog with complete distain and disinterest.

After Garry and I finished talking to the farmer we returned to the ute and began to drive back up the track to the highway. At this point, McKenzie leapt quickly to his feet and began to hurl a torrid of abuse at the huge Doberman. He called him every foul name under the sun and probably barked insults about the other dog’s mother as well. The Doberman, of course, wasn’t going to put up with this sort of abuse and began chasing the ute down the track. It seemed that McKenzie began to taunt the other dog and increased his frenzy of barking knowing full well that the Doberman was never going to catch up.

Unfortunately for McKenzie, Garry had to slow down and stop at the highway to wait for a break in the traffic. I was watching McKenzie through the back window, and he immediately stopped barking and turned around anxiously to look at Garry as if to say, “What the hell do you think you’re doing?” Seeing that we had stopped, the Doberman put on a new spurt of energy and began to quickly close the distance between us. By now, McKenzie was looking frantically through the back window and mentally pounding on the roof of the cabin as if to say, “Get this damned

ute moving. Don’t you know we’re about to be attacked?”

However, just as the huge dog reached the ute, Garry pulled out into a gap in the traffic and McKenzie immediately resumed hurling abuse and telling the other dog how lucky he was that we were no longer there. As the Doberman hadn’t bothered barking during the entire episode, I think we all know who the lucky dog was.

The second situation involves my dog Sandy, who has now gone to doggy heaven. She was a well-behaved Golden Retriever, and I would often take her for walk around the neighbourhood. On quiet days, when there wasn’t much traffic, I would walk her off the lead as she always came when I called her. There was a dog she would interact with that lived not far from our house. The two dogs had a ritual that they both strongly adhered to. As Sandy walked past the dog’s backyard it would snarl and bark ferociously, run up and down on its side of the fence and show its teeth through several gaps in the woodwork. Sandy, who was normally a very placid dog, would snarl, bark and leap around in return. They both enjoyed the ritual of telling the other dog what they would do if only the fence wasn’t there.

The truth of the ritual all came to a head one day when I noticed that the gate to the dog’s backyard was open. Before I could stop her, Sandy had slipped through the gate and into the domain of the other dog. I quickly followed her, commanding her in a loud whisper, accompanied by frantic had signals, to come back with me through the gate. I thought that if the other dog sees Sandy in its backyard there would be hell to pay. I didn’t want to call out loudly as I didn’t want to alert the owners of the house that there was a stranger and his dog on their property. Sandy however, blithely ignored me and proceeded to sniff all around the yard. It was at that stage that I saw the other dog sitting quietly under a bush in the corner pretending that there was nothing happening out of the ordinary. It was a typical Sergeant Schulz moment, “I see nothing, I know nothing.” I’m sure Sandy had also seen the other dog but chose not to acknowledge it. I quickly grabbed hold of Sandy’s collar and hustled her out the gate and quickly shut it behind me. The moment the gate clicked shut, the other dog was at the fence snarling and barking and the ritual between the two dogs was resumed. I just laughed at them and called them both fakers as there had never been any intention of biting or mauling. So, although it’s only two examples, I think it goes a long way to showing that a dog’s bark is usually worse than its bite.

I’ll finish with an old joke:

A lady sees a man sitting on a park bench next to a dog and says, “Does your dog bite?”

The man says, “No.” The lady then pats the dog who immediately nips her on the hand.

The lady quickly pulls her hand away and very indignantly says, “I thought you said your dog doesn’t bite.”

The man says, “That’s not my dog.”

- John Kriesfeld

TATURA COMMUNITY HOUSE

High Tea voted a great success.

Sixty guests enjoyed a delightful taste of yesteryear at the annual High Tea held at Olive and Vine on Tuesday 8th August. Tatura Community House manager Tom Boocock said, “This High Tea was a fantastic success and a vital fundraiser for the Community House each year” The venue has a lovely old-fashioned feel enhanced by the polished wooden tables and cabinets and took on the atmosphere of a traditional Victorian tearoom for the High Tea.

Guests were treated to a delicious array of mouthwatering treats including traditional scones with jam and cream, savory treats such as a selection of dainty sandwiches, savory pinwheels and mini cheesy muffins, raspberry and chocolate covered macadamia nuts and varied sweet treats such as jelly slice, mini chocolate truffles, tiny cupcakes and lemon slices. Guests were also provided with endless tea and coffee to wash down their delicacies. The fifteen hardworking volunteers supporting the event had been busy for days: baking yummy treats, making dainty sandwiches, setting the tables, dishwashing, and folding serviettes into decorative shapes and making floral decorations to enhance the table settings. New volunteer and new resident in Tatura, Jo Becker said “What a wonderful event to be a part of and how lovely to see all the people coming together to have some fun, enjoy some treats and support a worthwhile cause!!”.

Three lucky guests won the raffle and were awarded prizes of useful potholders, and two $50 vouchers – one for lunch at the Hilltop Golf Club and the other for online shopping.

Mr. Boocock thanked all the volunteers for their great support and Jacob Dedman photographer for the day and the Uniting Church for providing such a great atmospheric venue. He said “We hope to see everyone back same time next year for an even bigger and better High Tea! Don’t forget to mark it in your Calendrer for August 2024!

Volunteers Needed

Tatura Community House is looking for volunteers. If you would like to get involved, give the Community House a call on 5824 1315. Volunteering can help to subsidise your childcare costs or count towards your mutual obligation for Centrelink. Come and join a great team and get involved. Training will be provided. Volunteering at the community house can be reception work, gardening, IT support, light maintenance, program facilitation and social support.

Origami Workshop last Friday of the month

Tatura Community House proudly supports our Tatura Library to assist the Peace Crane project which is part of the International Day of Peace. This project aims to make 1,000 origami paper cranes Come along on 25th August from 3.45 to 5.15pm and join in making the colourful cranes for a worthy cause. Please help our Library to make the most Peace Cranes of all the Goulburn Valley Libraries.

Women’s Health Clinic – Free Bulk Billing. In partnership with GV Health, a Women’s Health Clinic will be available at the Community House for women and LGBTIQA+ people of all ages. The clinic will provide information, support, clinical services ad appropriate specialist referral services in an informal and relaxed environment. The clinic runs every first Tuesday of the month from 10:00am to 2:00pm. Give us a call.

Victorian Sick Pay Guarantee – up to 38 hours of sick pay for casual workers paid by the Victorian Government!

If you are a casual worker in hospitality, food trades and food preparation, supermarkets, retail or sale, aged care and disability, cleaning and laundry, then you may be entitled to 38 hours of paid sick pay per year. You need to work an average of 7.6 hours or more per week, be older than 15 years and work in Victoria. The community house can register you and support you in claiming your sick pay. Bookings essential – 5824 1315.

TATURA

CIVIC HALLS INC.

As you pass by the façade of the impressive Victory and Mechanics’ Halls have you ever wondered how such majestic buildings have survived in such pristine condition? Recent improvements this year include a renewed Mechanics’ Hall floor complete with new carpet, renovated tenant’s rooms with new carpet and reverse-cycle air-conditioning in both halls. Would you like to join the team who form the Tatura Civic Halls Committee who strive to keep these buildings in first class condition? Show your support and come along to Annual General Meeting to be held on Thursday, September 14 at 7.30pm in the Mechanics’ Hall, hear the annual reports and even consider nomination for a committee position.

Tatura Community Halls

Enjoying Morning Tea

property. From media and signage flyers. We things your know. If

Curious about selling your property? Call Brett, Steve or Nello for a free no obligation valuation.

PROBUS NEWS

Our Member Behind the Badge this month was Ken Tee, one of our Foundation Members. Ken spoke of his childhood in England, marrying Ann, the birth of Andy and Sarah, the successful application to come to Australia when the threat was made to put Andy into an Institution, the arrival in Australia, with their goods arriving six months later by boat, the instant job – milking cows in Australia one week after milking in England, settling in, Helen born one year later, children marrying, grandchildren, and then Ken’s involvement in many volunteer capacities. Our guest speakers were Teresa Jasper and Joan Broughan from the Housing for the Aged Group. This is a volunteer group, funded by philanthropic donations, based in Melbourne, who try to help those over 50 who find themselves homeless, or are heading that way. Teresa, Joan, and another worker Anne are working in our region and attend the Tatura Community House each fortnight, where they are available to help anyone in this area in need of their services. Clients include those living in cars, tents, or just on the street, also those couch surfing, and those renting who are struggling with payment. They told us of the large number of clients they have who they are trying to find accommodation for and gave some examples of those they have succeeded to find accommodation for and the enormous difference this makes to that person’s health and wellbeing.

They told us of a group of ladies in Yarrawonga who got together and organised that the homeless in that area could access shower facilities and clothes washing facilities, and even a locker system where they could safely leave their belongings during the day. Teresa and Joan were thanked by Pat Ibbott.

ROTARY COMBINES WITH IGA

The Tatura Rotary Club has been invited to participate in the official opening of the new grocery section of RITCHES IGA. Rotary will man the Barbeque on the day, raising fund for our community. Please support the BBQ. As we all know, Rotary is a voluntary organization with all the money raised going back to our local community.

We are excited to announce that Tatura Rotary is one of the top recipients of funds donated by Ritchies IGA through their community benefit program. Every time you swipe your card, Ritchies IGA donates a small amount to our club. You get the savings off your groceries, and we get to raise much-needed funds that we can use to help our town. With the cost of living always on the increase this is one way to help in the neverending battle.

On the opening day, Rotary hopes to have a stall where you can get your Ritchies Card. We will help you set it up, all we ask is that you nominate the Rotary Club of Tatura as your favorite charity. It only takes a minute of your time; you can even have the app on “your” phone. It can be used to access the savings in the Liquor department too, that’s where the big savings can be made, but you must have a card or the app to access these savings.

There are several listed charities in our town that don’t meet the spending requirement of $2000 per month to access these funds. If your charity is one of those, (You can check by logging in to your account) perhaps you should consider changing your favorite charity to Tatura Rotary, where you can guarantee every dollar you contribute, even the smallest amount is counted, and you can be assured all money raised goes back to our town.

Tatura Rotary would like to thank all those that have already made our Rotary club their favorite charity. #Would we like more people to join in this winner, winner, chicken dinner” You bet ya.#

RICE CORNER BY GIBB

The owner and operator of our Thai Food shop is Gibb. She is ably supported by her husband Torn. Gibb previously worked at Tatura Fresh, now Flavorite, for 10 years.

Gibb was very excited and enthusiastic to open a new shop in town. Unfortunately, there were a few hiccups in getting it up and running but now she is trialing different dishes and her opening hours are 11am to 7pm. At this stage service is mainly take away.

Gibb doesn’t have a set menu and she will have a variety of dishes each day. Feedback from customers is welcome.

If you like cooking your own Thai food, then Gibb also has many groceries and ingredients for sale.

Probus

Torn and Gibb

GENERATIONS OP SHOP

Generations Op Shop is seeking help from the local community to raise funds for a new freezer. They have been running a food bank from their shop since 2019. This service is available for anyone in the community that is struggling to make ends meet.

Generations Food Bank Manager, Jolene Bowles said, “We want to restore dignity to people who are in genuine need by normalising the way they receive food assistance. We want to give people choice. The final stage to this is purchasing an upright display freezer with glass fronts so they can see and choose the type of frozen food they would like. This will cost almost $6000 brand new.”

“This freezer is really for the Tatura community,” said Jacqui Hall, Generations Community Care Manager. “We are hoping the community will get behind us so we can provide the best food relief in the region. No one should ever go hungry. We are here for anyone that may ever find themselves in that situation.”

To stock the Food Bank, items are regularly picked up from Shepparton FoodShare as well as frozen meals supplied by Tatura Community House. Various other Tatura businesses also support the Food Bank by supplying food donations. Generations Op Shop rely on other financial donations to purchase any additional items.

Jacqui said, “If you would like to donate towards the freezer, we have started a GoFundMe page. You can find the GoFundMe link on the Generations Op Shop Facebook page or otherwise come instore and donate.”

If anyone has genuine financial difficulties and needing food assistance through the Food Bank, they can present to the front or rear of Generations Op Shop between 10am to 4pm, Monday to Friday. Generations Op Shop is a ministry of Generations Church.

Jacqui Hall

ROTARY ROUND UP

We have just seen the return of the Rotary Art Show and what a return it was. Breaking all records, it clearly shows there is a need for such an event. The town, especially the youth, along with the artists need a big pat on the back for putting on and supporting such an event.

The Significance of the lowly $2 Raffle.

I volunteered to help sell raffle tickets for the Art show in the street and whilst doing so, it dawned on me what this insignificant little event really meant.

I thought just how far these simple little $2 spreads within the town, helping fund our hospital, sending a local child overseas on a life changing adventure through Rotary Exchange, supporting our sporting facilities, supporting a family suffering in a crisis and so many more things. I am amazed just how far this little $2 goes. Who would have thought it would go that far. Even if you only buy 1 ticket you are contributing to so much. The other thing that struck me was how important a role just selling those raffle tickets plays in our community. It is a great social interactive activity, people stop to say hello and you hear so many stories that they share, asking how so and so is? What’s been happening in your world? What’s new in town? You get to meet new people in town, and you can give them a warm welcome and make them feel just that little bit more connected. They love to share their story of where they come from, what was it that made them choose Tatura as a place to call home. So many buy tickets, not to win the painting that was 1st prize, but just to help Rotary, because they know of all the good Rotary does in this town and around the world. Some will even drop $5 or $10 on the table and refuse to take any tickets as they don’t want to lessen someone’s chance of winning, someone who would appreciate it more than they.

It’s interesting to watch some people’s reaction to a stall selling tickets. Some will cross the street to avoid going past the sellers, others will pretend to be busy on their phones, if they only realized how great a great an opportunity they are passing up to be involved in the town, they don’t need to buy a ticket, but a smile and a simple, “hello” would help their day too. We won’t bite you.

Long live the humble $2 raffle.

HAVE YOU TRIED TENNIS IN TAT?

Did you know that Tatura has some of the best lawn tennis courts in the region? Did you also know that we have a modern, fully air-conditioned club house and secure grounds for children to safely play? Well, the Tatura Lawn Tennis Club has all of that, and more.

We cater for everyone, regardless of your age or skill level. Juniors, social players, ladies’ comps, Saturday comps and veterans. Coaching is also available with an accredited coach if you are interested.

In addition to the twelve lawn courts, there are four synthetic courts under lights so you can also have a hit at night. We have a BBQ, a licenced bar, and a well-equipped kitchen.

So why not have a go at tennis in Tatura?

To find out more or register an interest in playing go to play.tennis.com.au/taturalawntennisclub, send an email to taturalawntennisclub@gmail.com, or have a look at Tatura Lawn Tennis Club on Facebook. If you would like to discuss the options, you can call 0402 303 893.

PINK MORNING TEA

When early planning began in 2023, there was ages to go ‘til the calendar hit October 7. But now as we near the end of July, the clock has sped up considerably. But world – we’re all over it.

Pink Morning Tea organizer Sharon Reilly and her group of hard workers have things firmly in hand.

“We had an enforced break with COVID but are back in 2023 ready to put on another great event and to raise some money for the Goulburn Valley Breast Care Support Group.”

“Early bird ticket sales have been great, but we are not resting on our past success. A great deal of thought and pride goes into the event, right down to handmade tickets and table pieces. “

“The morning tea includes games, raffles, a guest speaker, and lots of great food. All dietary requirements are catered for on the day; and don’t forget to bring lots of gold coins for raffles and games.”

This year, we have a silent auction of signed Glenn McGrath memorabilia - contact organisers for bid information.

The date to mark down now is Saturday October 7; tickets are available as a table of eight or individually for $30 Tickets are on sale now, and must be purchased before October 1, so don’t be shy to pick yours up by contacting Sharon on 0438 262 172.

-

Food Bank Manager Jolene Bowles

LIONS CLUB PUBLIC SPEAKING

Sacred Heart School was excited to be a part of the recent Tatura Lions Club Junior Public Speaking program. Along with our sister schools in the district, we had four children take part in the public event held at the Lions Club July general meeting.

Grace McKinnon, Japneet Kaur, Oliva Talarico and Simran Kaur represented Sacred Heart with Olivia being the successful speaker, in the Year Three and Four category, to represent our district at the regional event in Shepparton.

Olivia has now advanced to the state championships to be held in Bendigo in September. We wish Olivia and all other participants all the best. Below is an extract of Olivia’s talk.

The Day I Became A Giant!

I woke up just like any other day, dogs playing, cows eating, horses galloping like crazy. The sun was shining. I ate my breakfast and got ready for school.

I went to the auto teller before school because I need money for my school lunch and the Blue-Light disco.

I put in my code and did all that. As I pulled out the money from the auto teller, my hand it was blue and it’s starting to swell. My brand-new expensive shoes that I just bought from the shop broke in half. I was so upset! And when I was trying to walk to get to my bike, I fell over. I couldn’t even walk. The day when I went to school, my teachers and friend said; “Could you clean the gutters?”, “Could you prune the trees?”, “Could you clean the cobwebs in the classroom.” I could even wash the church windows!

But that was a good bit. But don’t get too comfortable people, cause this can get serious. I went home. My door was too small!...

Spicy Pinto Baked Beans

SPICY PINTO BAKED BEANS

Ingredients:

- 120g pinto beans (washed and drained)

- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

- 1 tbsp smoked or sweet paprika

- 2 tsp apple cider vinegar (APCV)

- 90g passata sauce

- 1/3 cup water

- 3 rounds of thinly sliced and chopped leek

- Herbamare herbal salt

- Freshly ground black pepper

- Optional: Chilli flakes for an extra kick!

- 1 tsp Dijon mustard

Method:

1. In a large pot, heat 3 tbsp of extra virgin olive oil, add leek and crushed garlic, and cook until soft and translucent (5-7 minutes).

2. Stir in passata sauce, smoked paprika, Dijon mustard, and 1/3 cup of water. Season with Herbamare herbal salt and freshly ground black pepper. Let it simmer for five minutes, allowing the flavours to meld.

3. Add the washed and drained pinto beans to the pot. Continue cooking until the sauce reduces and the beans soak up all the delicious flavours.

4. While the beans are simmering, toast some bread of your choice. Spread your recommended oil or ghee on the toast.

5. Once the beans are ready, serve them on top of the toasted bread. Garnish with fresh rosemary and parsley for a delightful finishing touch!

Elevate your day with the delightful flavours of these spicy pinto baked beans, embracing a wholesome goodness that can support your hormones!

Diana Miranda, Clinical Nutritionist, Metabolic Balance Practitioner

LOCAL CAR CLUB AGM

The GV Fins and Fenders Car Club here in Tatura have had our AGM and all members were delighted to find the office bearers have agreed to do a second year in their prospective roles. This means Troy Styles as president, Kristal Styles as secretary and Chriss Kelly as treasurer.

When such people do so good a job no-one wants to see them be replaced!

We met at Lagozzino's Top Pub for a most enjoyable meal, which was served promptly with a smile and then enjoyed a social get together.

Our next club "fun run" won't be until 16th September when we plan to check out M.O.V.E. and then have a lunch at the Toolamba Hotel before returning to club rooms. As always, it will be a terrific day together.

-

Janice Dreyer

ourselves

Olivia Talarico

JUDY REVELL CELEBRATES BEING 90 YEARS YOUNG!

Judy Revell of Wybalena, Murchison, enjoyed celebrating her 90th birthday on Saturday, August 5, at Murchison Bakery, surrounded by a group of eighteen friends. Judy and her husband, John, have lived at Wybalena in Murchison for eleven years, after first moving to Murchison in 1965 when John worked at State Rivers.

With their three children – Elinor, Linda and Stuart, who have their own families - they continued the 90th celebrations the following day by having lunch together at the Seymour Club.

Judy is a legend. For 25 years, she taught swimming at the Murchison Pool to all the school children in the district, as well as conducting swimming club on Saturday mornings during summer. In 1992, Judy, together with Elaine Kenyon, were awarded Life Memberships at the Murchison Pool to acknowledge 20 years of commitment to the Pool and Committee and, in particular, teaching swimming to Murchison children. Both ladies were founding members of the Murchison Swimming Club in 1972, as well as being highly involved in the Royal Lifesaving Society for gaining achievements and medals and instructing many hundreds of children over the years.

Judy’s other activities and interests include helping at the Mother’s Club at Murchison Primary, being Tawny Owl at the Brownies, and cooking for the D.P. Jones Auxiliary who catered for weddings, funerals, and other gatherings for many years. As well, Judy and John enjoyed bowls for many years, winning many awards for their efforts.

Judy and John are regular visitors at Murchison Neighbourhood House where they enjoy having lunch with friends and other locals. It is always a joy to see them there or at the Bakery on Saturday mornings, and we hope to see even more of them in the days to come. Well done Judy!

- Margaret Lock, Murchison

MINDFULNESS PRACTICES with Diana Miranda

In today's fast-paced world, it's easy to get swept away by the currents of stress and anxiety, but there's a simple yet transformative remedy: the practice of being present. Not only does it offer immediate relief from stress, but it also plays a significant role in nurturing your hormone health. Let's explore some incredible benefits of staying present and discover effective techniques to achieve this, all from the perspective of Diana Miranda, a Clinical Nutrition and Metabolic Balance Practitioner.

1. Grounding in the Moment: When stress strikes, the power of staying present lies in focusing on the here and now. Shift your attention to what's right in front of you. Temporarily set aside the worries and distractions that pull you away from the present. By doing so, you allow your mind and body to recalibrate, preparing you to resume your day with a clearer perspective.

2. The Breath Bridge: A simple yet potent technique is deep breathing, and Diana emphasizes the value of this practice, especially in a stressful environment. Find a comfortable spot, perhaps your office chair, and pay attention to your breath. As you inhale through your nose, let your belly expand. Exhale, feeling your abdomen relax. Focus on this rhythmic flow, allowing it to anchor you in the present moment.

3. Belly Breathing: Diana encourages us to practice deep belly breathing, a technique that not only helps with staying present but also supports overall hormone health. Sit down, inhale deeply through your nose, filling your belly with air, and exhale through your nose, feeling your belly gently lower. Repeat this process, letting your breath flow naturally while you focus on the rise and fall of your belly. This practice promotes relaxation and balance.

4. Guided Meditation and Yoga: Diana finds that guided meditation, such as using the Headspace app, and practicing yoga are wonderful ways to maintain presence and support hormone health. These activities engage both the mind and body, allowing you to immerse yourself in the present moment, reducing stress, and promoting overall well-being.

5. Find Your Moment: Diana shares her favourite ways to stay present, and these can be your inspiration too. Whether it's taking a leisurely walk, tending to a garden, cuddling with a beloved pet, indulging in a candlelit bath, or simply being aware of your surroundings and expressing gratitude, the options are limitless. By identifying what resonates with you, you can create your unique practice of presence that aligns with your lifestyle and preferences.

In a world where stress seems inevitable, the power of presence shines as a beacon of hope. Through mindful practices, like those lovingly shared by Diana Miranda, we can not only manage stress but also nurture our hormone health. Let's take a moment to be present, breathe deeply, and appreciate the beauty of the here and now.

Judy Celebrating Her 90th Birthday

TATURA TRELLIS – FIFTY YEARS YOUNG

Five decades ago, the Tatura Trellis became well known in the horticultural world as a new orchard system, because it integrated all the horticultural factors involved in establishing and maintaining a planting of fruit trees. These factors included tree density and arrangement, tree shape, pruning and training methods needed to maintain the desired configuration, mechanical trimming and harvesting, soil management, irrigation, and support system.

The aim was to develop a blueprint for the orchardist to follow throughout the life of a planting.

A major objective in developing the Tatura Trellis was early and high yields, ease of management, and the mechanisation of summer pruning and harvesting. The Tatura Trellis had to become an orchard system that fruitgrowers could relate to easily.

The concept, design and development of the Tatura Trellis were based on a study we did in 1971 and 1972, to determine how the quantitative distribution of dry weight of conventionally planted peach trees changed between tree growth and cropping over the life-span of the trees and the physiological mechanisms that controlled it.

We linked this with the most common problems fruitgrowers in Australia faced: low yields per hectare, high cost of production and the inability to change an uneconomical crop to an economical one quickly.

To ensure quick adoption of the Tatura Trellis, tree architecture had to be suited to the existing orchard equipment, so orchardists did not have to change and invest in new expensive orchard equipment. It also had to be adaptable to a wide range of temperate, sub-tropical and ultra-tropical fruit crops, nuts, grapevines and kiwifruit, and fit existing row spacings (e.g. 5.5 m).

Once the trees have filled their spaces and

full cropping is reached, they are managed in such a way that only minimum amounts of photosynthates are used for growth and maintenance of shoots and roots, with most directed towards fruit production. Armed with these facts, research began at the Tatura Research Institute that incorporated tree and soil management, irrigation, tree propagation and orchard mechanisation. No single research could cover this whole field since a wide range of expertise was needed, as well as the great amount of work involved. It became a scientific multi-disciplinary team of researchers. They emphasised basic research, which they then applied to the orchard. This team approach became known as Systems Research.

The researchers not only had to thoroughly understand the basic science concerned, they also worked with and assisted a group of pioneering orchardists who tried the Tatura systems on a commercial scale. This was most important, because we knew that orchardists could convince other orchardists better than researchers, that the technologies and the science behind the systems, were sound and adaptable. Out of these large research programmes crystalized two unique blueprints for orchardists to follow: the Tatura Trellis and the Tatura System of Soil Management.

The Tatura Trellis and the Tatura System of Soil Management were R&D models which revolutionised fruit growing in the Goulburn Valley and beyond, and placed Tatura amongst world leaders in horticultural research.

Commercial adoption of the Tatura Trellis as a fully integrated system of orchard management were encouraged by publishing research findings in national and international journals, technical notes, conference and seminar presentations, field days and orchard demonstrations.

Research continued at Tatura and evolved into a

unique canopy design, called the Open Tatura, that allowed more sunlight to penetrate through the canopies, the inclination of the canopies was made smaller, and the size of nursery trees was maintained to facilitate quick canopy growth which improved early production. The Open Tatura system is not only known for its high productivity and efficiency of producing fruit, it has also withstood the anger of the gods of weather. A number of significant climatic events are proof that the productivity and versatility of the Open Tatura (and Tatura Trellis) are unequalled.

This unique combination may be the solution to establish a sustainable and prosperous industry of exotic tropical fruits in cyclone-prone north Queensland, and perhaps other parts of tropical Australia and the world.

It took just a decade of research to design and develop the foundation of a fully integrated system of orchard management that revolutionised the fruit industry in the Goulburn Valley, Australia, and beyond, for which the word ‘tatura’ is now synonymous. In 1975 several Tatura Trellis plantings were established in the Ardmona and Leeton districts.

The first overseas Tatura Trellis planting of peach trees took place in 1975 at Rhodes Fruit Farms Ltd, Groot Drakenstein, South Africa. All types of fruit are now growing on ‘tatura’ in all major fruit growing countries including Hawaii, Uzbekistan, Union Island and Israel. The Goulburn Valley possibly has the highest concentration of tatura plantings in the world followed by the USA.

It was the most important and rewarding result of a combined research program that the Tatura Research Institute ever produced. The relatively short time it took place has therefore been dubbed ’The Golden Era’ of the Institute’s 80-year history.

- Bas van den Ende

CAN YOU PLEASE EXPLAIN THIS TO ME? by

Ma Merle

“You know Merle, Garry is so kind to stay at your house and look after your animals,” Agnes said as we bounced around in the back of the bus. I shook my head. “Don’t be so quick to compliment him, Agnes. He will no doubt empty my pantry of all the biscuits and anything else sweet, not to mention the chocolate topping. Lord knows what he puts it on, but he always manages to find something and then leaves the bottle, all but empty, back in the pantry. And don’t think for a minute he is above rummaging through my freezer as well.”

“So, he likes rummaging through things Merle?” Agnes giggled.

“Oh my,” I thought. “She is a strange one.” “Well let’s just say I left him with a whole lasagna, a frozen cheesecake and anything else he can find. I am pretty sure he won’t starve to death while we are away for the next couple of days. And if he does run out there is always pet food.” I found myself imagining Garry hoeing into a plate of doggy food and it amused me. We chatted, bobbed, bumped and hoed into snacks ourselves for the next couple of hours until we finally reached our destination. We had decided to take the bus so we could relax and chat without worrying about the road and all the crazy drivers. There was a lovely quilt show on, and we were both looking forward to seeing it. Not that either of us did quilting but it was still lovely to admire them. Once we arrived at the bus stop, we were given our bags and then set off for the Airbnb. The Airbnb lady said it was only a two minute walk from there but it was more like ten as we dragged our heavy bags along.

“It’s further than we thought by the looks of it, Merle,” Agnes said as she huffed and puffed and produced great amounts of perspiration.

“Yes, it is, Agnes, certainly not a two minute walk that’s for sure.” I replied as I also huffed and gasped. “Finally,” I exclaimed. “Number seventy three, we are here. Now find those notes that you had Fred print off because it has a code we need to use to get in. That’s how they do things these days. They don’t use keys anymore.”

“Let me find them in my bag Merle,” replied Agnes as she rummaged through that Mary Poppins bag of hers, although she rarely dragged anything interesting out except used tissues and old half eaten snacks. “It’s in here somewhere,” she said while producing even more perspiration and looking very flushed in the face. “It’s awfully warm in the full sun Merle, can’t we move to some shade while I have a better look.”

By this time, I was pretty sure I was matching her perspiration output. “Oh, will you just hurry up Agnes!”

We moved to the shade and then after a very long time Agnes admitted that the notes were not in her bag, and she was pretty sure they were still on the coffee table at home.

“You best phone Fred then,” I said very frustrated, while trying to not talk through pursed lips.

“Yes, yes I will phone him now,” Agnes replied as she resumed rummaging. “Oh Merle, you won’t believe this, but my phone is not here either. I am pretty sure they are both together on the coffee table. Yes, I do believe they were together so that I would not forget the notes.”

Not even in the front door yet and I was over our weekend away. “Right,” I said. “Let me phone Garry to see if he can get onto Fred to find those ruddy papers. Oh Agnes, truly how can you be so forgetful? Seriously.” I was very hot and frustrated.

I rummaged and rummaged through my own bag until a dreadful truth came over me and I finally had to admit to Agnes that my phone was not in my bag either. I vaguely remember it being on the kitchen table as Garry hurried out of the front door so we did not miss our bus.

“Come on ladies,” he had said. “Jump in the car or the bus will leave without you.” I might have known it would be his fault.

We stood looking at each other not knowing whether to laugh or cry.

“How are we going to get in them Merle?” Agnes asked.

I thought the answer was pretty obvious. “We probably won’t Agnes. I mean we have not any key or code.”

We went back to over to the little house and put our bags down near the gate. “You mind these Agnes and I will see if anyone can help us.”

I went next door and knocked. Nobody was home. I was now perspiring profusely. Agnes had gone quite pale. I went to the house on the other side and a woman answered all full of smiles. I was in no mood to return them. I asked if she knew how to get in or where the key was hidden. She had no clue and did not even know the people who owned it. They lived in Melbourne or Syndey or something like that and that they liked to keep to themselves as did she. I thank her and went back to Agnes.

“Ok,” I said. “Here is the plan. We can’t even go and get some lunch because we have our heavy bags, and we simply cannot drag them along the streets while we look for a cafe. So, we should just make our way back to the bus stop and return home. We cannot just stand here all day and we have no way of getting in, so hopefully we can get a refund.

“But what about the quilt show Merle?”

“Really? That is what you wonder about Agnes? We are stranded here, it is hot, my feet hurt, and our weekend is ruined.”

“But maybe we can climb through a window or something,” Agnes said with a quizzical look on her face.

“Really? So, will you climb through the window or will I? Shall I break the window first? Agnes are you quite right in the head? We are not going to do any of that, are we?”

Agnes looked quite dejected. “Well when you say it like that Merle, I don’t suppose we are. Can’t we stay somewhere else then?” Agnes said trying to cling on to our plan of a nice weekend away.

“We have no phones, we can’t just walk around looking, so where would you suggest we stay Agnes?” I raised both of my eyebrows in an action that I hoped portrayed my absolute doubt that it was possible for us. “Let’s just get back on the bus and go home. Hopefully Fred can get us a refund and when we recover, we can attempt another weekend.”

Agnes finally agreed that all was lost and that we should do just that. Without our phones there was no way of getting Garry to pick us up from the bus station, so we took a taxi. We decided to go to my home first and get him to drive Agnes home after that.

Garry met us at the door and was shocked to see us. “What on earther has happened?” Garry said wide-eyed.

“I will explain everything in a minute,” I said all flustered. “But first we are starving. We have not eaten all day. I’ll just heat up some of that lasagna and after we get our energy back, I’ll explain.”

“Yeah, well there is not much left love. You know I love your cooking and so I have eaten a fair bit of it already,” Garry said looking a bit embarrassed.

“But it’s only the first day Garry. What were you going to eat tomorrow?”

“Well I did spot some left-overs in your freezer, plus there is that cheesecake you left. I haven’t eaten that yet.”

“Fine.” I said as I marched off in the direction of the freezer.

Garry stopped me halfway and said, “Before you get the cheesecake cake, there is something I need to show you.”

“What has he broken?” was my first thought.

“It’s in the spare room.” He looked very frightened and nervous, so I started to imagine all sorts of things. “Best show me then,” I said already annoyed. As Agnes and I stepped into the spare room, I asked why there was a large cardboard box on the floor.

“Well. that is just it you see. You need to look inside. It’s Rogette.”

“Rogette? Who on earth is Rogette?” I peered over into the box only to see my Roger with five brand newly born baby kittens.

I was silent with my mouth wide open as Garry said, “Yep, I reckon it’s Rogette love not Roger. Don’t you?”

What was going on? Why had my stray cat now had kittens? Why was my life so hard? Why was Garry such a big eater? Can someone please explain?

TATURA 200 CHARITY BIKE RIDE AND WALK

The Tatura 200 Charity Bike Ride & Walk, affectionately known as the TAT200, was an initiative of the Tatura Milk Industries board aimed at extending its community support beyond its traditional stakeholders. Participants come together to ride or walk a variety of distances, the most illustrious of which is the 200km ride. The event caters to all levels of fitness, so we encourage participants to challenge themselves or enjoy a fun day out! This year will mark the thirteenth Tatura 200, after having a few years off due to COVID!

All sponsorship money raised through the event is donated to local charities and groups within the Goulburn Valley. Since the event’s inception in 2008, the Tatura 200 has raised over $1,000,000 for local charities, organisations, and community groups in the Goulburn Valley. Info taken from website.

Tatura Physiotherapy Clinic

85 Hogan Street, Tatura

Lisa M. Cullum

Opening HOurs:

Monday : 8:30am – 4pm Tuesday: closed Wednesday: 8:30am – 4pm Thursday: closed Friday: 8:30am – 12noon

From July Tatura Physiotherapy Clinic will be open the first Thursday evening of the month 5-8pm and closed on the Friday.

For an appointment phone 5824 2889

The Miracle of Sharing.

I've never understood why miracles with a physical dimension to them are seen as superior to non-physical miracles that transform the human heart.

The story of the feeding of the 5000, which appears in all four Gospels, is a remarkable story. Sunday school teachers loved it, probably because it has so many opportunities for acts and props.

The story is quite detailed but it is unclear whether the miracle is about the multiplication of loaves and fishes or about fearful hearts being transformed.

I've always been surprised how quickly some people accuse me of a lack of faith for suggesting that it might be a miracle of sharing, rather than a miracle of multiplication. If it was a miracle of multiplication of loaves and fishes, well good on you Jesus. I wish I could do that.

But if it was a miracle of sharing, where people overcame their fear and their sense of being insignificant, then that's a miracle that still challenges us today. There are so many big problems facing our world: war in the Ukraine, inflation, climate change, reconciliation with first peoples, the decline of our community life.

The Gospel story of the feeding of the five thousand (Mark 6:30-43) provides us with a blueprint for confronting overwhelming tasks. It all begins with compassion.

Without compassion this story would not exist. Jesus was tired and grieving. He had been going full-on, teaching, and responding to the needs of others. He decided to withdraw from the crowds to spend a few days alone, refuelling after all his giving.

But the crowds followed him. They saw the boat set off and they knew the lake well enough to anticipate where it was headed. They got there before him. “When he went ashore, he saw a great crowd; and he had compassion for them and cured their sick.”

Accept that it is your responsibility.

Hair & Beauty

Colour and Cutting Specialist

Salon Trading Hours:

Monday - Closed

Tuesday to Friday - 9am to 6pm; Fridays - Late Nights

Saturday - from 8.30am

Phone Sam on 03 5824 2019 or 0408 571 525

159 Hogan St

It was a vast crowd and as evening's shadows lengthened thoughts turned to the need for food. The disciples decided the easiest course was to send people away. However, Jesus asked his disciples to accept responsibility for the sustenance of the multitude. ‘They need not go away; you give them something to eat.’ Whenever we are faced with a large and difficult issue, there is always the temptation to say, “It’s not my problem.” It takes courage to accept responsibility. But recognising our responsibility empowers us to step forward, rather than retreat. Assess what you have got.

In the heart of this narrative lies a miracle – the miracle of sharing. I don’t doubt that Jesus could have multiplied the bread and the fish, but I believe that more than likely each individual in that throng carried some food,

albeit seemingly inconsequential amidst a gathering of thousands.

When facing a big challenge, we seem to become acutely aware of what we lack. Deficit thinking looks to what we lack. Asset based thinking asks, “What have we got?”

A transformative shift occurs when attention shifts from what is lacking to what is present. Break the problem down.

Five thousand people is a big crowd, but it is composed of individuals. If the disciples had continued to think of this as a crowd problem, it would have been difficult to know where to start. Jesus said to get the people to sit down in groups of 50 or 100. By fragmenting a seemingly overwhelming task into manageable portions, we not only reduce feelings of intimidation. We also pave the way for incremental advancement.

Put a human face on the problem.

Imagine the scene: the crowd, previously an undifferentiated mass, began to sit down in small clusters. Most likely they joined with people they knew. The act of gathering in familiar circles, possibly extended families or close acquaintances, changed the dynamic and atmosphere. They were no longer trying to solve the problem of feeding a crowd of 5000. Now, they were sharing with family and friends. When there is a human face to a problem, we are more likely to be moved to empathy, to be propelled to act, and to have hope that we can make a difference. Commit it to God and act.

As the sun cast its golden rays, the moment of action arrived. With the meagre provisions before him, Jesus initiated a miracle. He sought God’s blessing on the loaves and fish and the disciples began the distribution. Taking action, regardless of the magnitude of the task, not only propels us toward our goal, but also encourages others to join in the endeavour, generating a collective force, working for transformation.

Gather up the crumbs.

After everyone had eaten, the disciples gathered twelve baskets of surplus fragments. This final step underscored the value in gathering resources and examining the ‘crumbs’ left behind. The lesson learnt was that there was enough, more than enough for all present.

Our world faces formidable challenges. If we all sit back and say, “My bit doesn’t matter”, the challenges we face will only grow. The story of the feeding of the 5000 beckons us to emulate its essence. It reminds us that no challenge is insurmountable when face it with acceptance, resourcefulness, human connection, resolute action, and faith in God. Through these small, yet mighty steps, we unravel the miracle of sharing.

This is the gospel, and it’s good news.

- Brian Spencer, Minister, Tatura Uniting Church

Kids Page

TRAIN MAZE

POEM – THE TRAIN

(Author Unknown)

Can you find your way through the Maze?

TRAIN JOKES

The railway train is starting off, The engine gives a hasty puff, The bell is rung, the whistle blows, The driver says “Right!” and off it goes.

Over the bridge, it shoots away, Into the tunnel, dark all day, Through the cutting, across the plain, Till it comes back to the Yards again!

Q: Why was the train late?

A: It kept getting side tracked.

Q: How do locomotives hear?

A: Through their engineers!

Q: How do you find a missing train?

A: Follow the tracks.

Q: What do you call a train that sneezes?

A: Achoo-choo train.

Q: What happened to the man that took the 5 o’clock train home?

A: He had to give it back!

Q: What is as big as a steam locomotive but weighs nothing?

A: Its shadow.

Q: When does a rabbit go exactly as fast as a train?

A: When it’s on the train.

TRAIN PUZZLE: DOT-TO-DOT

CUBBY NEWS

Another great month at the Cubby. For science week, our children explored different experiments and had lots of fun. We used food colouring to make white flowers change their colour and deshelled a raw egg using vinegar. We created rainbows by letting paper absorb coloured water and did a fun balloon experiment. Inspired by science week, we once again baked bread using yeast and observing the chemical reactions. Science can be fun and be experienced from an early age. Our children also signed up for the second Workshop of the Australian Ballet at the Tatura Library. This was a wonderful opportunity to learn about ballet and dancing to the story of Sleeping Beauty.

The children had lots of different activities to entertain themselves: ball paintings, using hammer and nails, taking apart keyboards and computers and just enjoying the outdoors in our playground.

The staff at The Cubby are dedicated to providing quality care for children and ensuring that they have fun and memorable experiences.

WE ARE LOOKING FOR CHILDCARE EDUCATORS AS RELIEVERS.

If you have a Cert III or Diploma in Early Childhood Education and are interested in working with a great team in a small childcare centre, then give us a call 5824 1315. Work would be on a casual basis as a reliever.

Our license to operate covers childcare for 15 children per day which gives us the opportunity and the joy to care for our families in a very individual and personal way – you become part of the Cubby family. We are here to support our parents above the regular services of childcare centres. We can help you with your Child Care Subsidy application with Centrelink, connect you to support services or just have an open ear for the days where it all seems a bit much.

We have a few spots left. Give us a call to inquire about vacancies, have a chat and book a time to get to know The Cubby and our staff. Children up to age 6 can attend and Childcare Subsidy applies.

The Cubby is open Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays, 8:30am – 4:00pm in the orange building on Kerferd Street. The Cubby is a Child Care Subsidy provider, making it an affordable choice for families. Give us a call on 5824 1315 or 0490 117 030 to have a chat with one of our friendly staff.

GOULBURN VALLEY WEST - CWA

Supporting and empowering people’s recovery Recovery and understanding of:

RAISING MONEY FOR CHARITY

A Goulburn-Murray Water (GMW) staff member is helping raise money for a local charity playing an important role in the community.

The Gift is a Kyabram-based charity established to provide support for people living with cancer.

The charity has raised more than $800,000 since it was founded in 2012, and has a footprint that encompasses Tongala, Stanhope, Rushworth and Undera.

GMW procurement manager Lauren Hicks raised $10,000 for the charity in 2022. She is looking to surpass this figure in 2023, with the promise of shaving her head if she does so.

“Anyone who has had friends or family battle cancer knows how difficult it is, and how important it is that there is help available to them,” Lauren said.

“A few years ago, I had a friend who passed away due to cancer, and I decided I wanted to do something to help those going through what he and his family endured. The Gift is an amazing charity and supporting them is a wonderful way to help people in our community who are battling with cancer.”

Lauren is currently halfway to reaching her target of $10,000, with the final fundraising day on Melbourne Cup Day.

The Gift vice chair Andrew Moore said the funds that were raised for the charity made a significant impact on people’s lives.

“We currently have about 40 families in the region we are supporting,” he said.

“The help we offer varies depending on each person’s situation. We might pay for a medical appointment for one person and help pay the rent for another. It is about providing whatever support we can to help them cope. The Gift is run by volunteers and has no administration fees, so every dollar that is donated goes to the people we are supporting.”

People can contribute to Lauren’s fundraiser by heading to the following website: https://www. gofundme.com/f/melbcupheadshave

As we come to the end of winter and see the first glimpses of spring – many of us are turning our thoughts to the tasks that we associate with the weather being that little bit warmer. Within the CWA this brings our craft skills and our fundraising efforts to the fore as part of the CWA calendar. So long as there are people in need, particularly regarding issues affecting women and children within our community, there will always be a time and a place within our community for us to support. In August we hold our local Conference which in part supports many donations of welfare items that go to our community where it is in most need. In September wewill again stage our G.V. West CWA Creative Arts and Craft Exhibition. This shows off the skills of the many women who so beautifully sew, cook, craft and do so much more. Once again, this a fundraiser which supports those in need. An interesting section of the Exhibition will be the focus of the Rodney Junior CWA. (These are girls from age 10+) who come together once a month and acquire an understanding of Junior CWA. The girls are mentored by ladies from the Rodney CWA. They are very talented, and it is certainly rewarding to see their work from cookery to quilting and much more. Also in attendance will be some wool spinning, as well as a talented lady who makes miniatures of dolls houses/furniture and other items. The Creative Arts & Crafts exhibition will be held at Victory Hall, Tatura on Sunday September 10, from 10.30am – 4.00pm. Admission is $10.00 – including Devonshire Tea. Children are free. Raffles and Trading Table also.

- Barbara Carter

POWER SAVING BONUS

Time is running out on the $250 Power Saving Bonus. The fourth round of the Power Saving Bonus is set to finish at the end of the month. The Nationals Member for Shepparton District, Kim O’Keeffe, is encouraging anyone who has not yet applied for the current round to do so before the August 31 deadline.

“My office is often contacted by people in the community who are struggling with to stay on top of bills with the cost-of-living skyrocketing and living expenses going through the roof,” said Ms O’Keeffe.

“I would urge everyone who hasn’t already applied for this round of funding to do so before the August 31 cut off.

“If you require assistance with your application, the team at my office can help you out.”

The current round, open since late March, offers a $250 payment to all eligible Victorian households, including those households who received prior round payments.

If you would like assistance applying for the Power Saving Bonus, feel free to visit Ms O’Keeffe’s office at 5 Vaughan Street, Shepparton, or call 5831 6944.

A full copy of a recent power bill is required to apply.

Lauren Hicks

VICTORIAN TOWNS WORD SEARCH

VICTORIAN TOWNS WORD SEARCH

VICTORIAN TOWNS WORD SEARCH

Find and circle all of the hidden words about Victorian towns. The left-over letters reveal a message. And yes, there is a town called Smoko.

SACRED HEART PRIMARY SCHOOL

BRINGING HOPE IN TOUGH TIMES

It is very hard to believe that on Monday, July 31, the Foundation students celebrated their 100th day of being at school. Students celebrated by doing lots of fun activities. These included dressing up as their hundred-year-old self, counting and dancing to 100, reading the first 100 Magic Words, writing as many words as they could in 100 seconds, decorating and eating scrumptious cupcakes, writing about what they would be doing when they are one hundred years old and ‘shopping’ with their buddies - listing the things they would buy with $100. Everyone had a fun day and loved dressing up – including the teachers!

Scoring

The All Saints Tatura church building and hall was closed on March 24. It will remain closed to parishioners and the community until Government and Diocese restrictions associated with the coronavirus pandemic are lifted. Many school halls, church buildings, cathedrals and other places where people meet to worship are empty. In my 16 years of church ministry in different contexts, I have always begun each Sunday by thanking God for the opportunity and freedom to meet together. I never once thought that this would change in a peaceful democratic country like Australia. These are exceptional times.

- Miss Lagozzino, Mrs Tartaglia and Miss Vincitorio

QUIZ answers

Find and circle all of the hidden words about Victorian towns. The left-over letters reveal a message. And yes, there is a town called

Find and circle all of the hidden words about Victorian towns. The left-over letters reveal a message. And yes, there is a town called Smoko.

QUIZ answers

Find and circle all of the hidden words about Victorian towns. The left-over letters reveal a message And yes, there is a town called Smoko.

1c – Tony Lockett

2a – Andes, South America

3b – Ottawa

4d – George Orwell

5a – Emerald

6b – Vines

7c – Tchaikovsky

8c – Signs and Symbols

9c – 2 (Phobos and Deimos)

10b – Baby

Scoring.

0–2. Struggle Street. Don’t feel too bad. In order for people to live on Bland Street, somebody has to be worse than that and I’m sorry to say that’s you. On the other hand, if you had guessed (c) for every answer you would have gotten four correct so perhaps you were just unlucky.

3-5. Bland Street. The majority of the population fall into this category. After all, average is both normal and safe. If you stand out from the crowd you become a tall poppy and we know what happens to them so rejoice in your ordinariness.

6-7. Above Average (sort of). Well done on another abnormal performance. If you were normal you would have been living on Bland Street and being called unexceptional. So, according to the Oxford dictionary, you are exceptional, irregular and deviating from type. Ask your friends if that sounds like you.

0–2. Struggle Street. Good on you for having a go! On the ladder of life, it is people like you that everybody else stands on, often blissfully unaware that you’re even there. However, without you, all the people on Bland Street would have nobody else to look down upon.

Whilst I understand the absolute necessity to protect one another from COVID-19 and ‘flatten the curve’, it is still extraordinary and unsettling to know that at a time when people are afraid, frustrated, worried and looking for answers, our church doors are shut. And yet… our church community remains active. Our message of hope in Christ and our love for community is being spread in new ways. All our parishioners are praying for our families and friends, our church, our town, our nation and the world. The leaders of our pastoral care groups call and check in on assigned members of the congregation every week, to see how they are and if they need any help. As the Minister, I also call a number of different parishioners each week to offer pastoral care and prayer.

3-5. Bland Street. Congratulations on joining the most represented group mathematically. This is where the majority of people end up so you are now part of the mob, the faceless crowd. From your safe vantage point, you can look down upon those from Struggle Street and cut down the tall poppies who have risen above you.

8-9. Smarty Pants. Excellent. Congratulations! You’re smarter than 95% of the population. Whether you choose to believe statistic is up to you. Oh, you do believe it. I thought you might. However, it also means you’re not as smart as 5%. Oh, I see. You don’t believe that particular statistic. 10. Genius. Every question correct! Go you! Lucky for you it was multiple choice because there were a couple you weren’t too sure about, weren’t there? However, you now have a month to bask in the glory by asking other people how they did on the quiz.

BENDIGO MELTON

BYADUK MERINGUR

6-7. Above Average (sort of). The phrase ‘better than average’ says it all. You’re better than that large lump of humanity floating in the mediocre zone but not quite as good as the cream who have risen to the top.

COWES NAGAMBIE WATTLE

DARGO NHILL WHROO

DEREEL OCEAN

8-9. Smarty Pants. Congratulations! You’re smarter than 95% of the population. Whether you choose to believe statistic is up to you. Oh, you do believe it. I thought you might. However, it also means you’re not as smart as 5%. Oh, I see. You don’t believe that particular statistic.

Every Sunday we upload an audio and transcript of the sermon to our website (https:// allsaintstatura.org.au/sermon/). We also produce a weekly newsletter which includes encouraging news, stories and photos from parishioners spending their days at home. For those at home with kids or grandkids, we put together a weekly ‘Little Saints’ kids pack which includes a kids bible teaching and some simple crafts to do as a family at home. The sermon, newsletter and kids pack are emailed to the congregation and for those who do not have internet access, is printed and left in letterboxes.

10. Genius. Every question correct! Go you! You may be the only person to have achieved this score. You now have a month to bask in the glory by asking other people how they did on the quiz. However, next month it’s business as usual so gloat while you can.

Over the Easter weekend, George Ferguson and I placed artwork by one of our parishioners, Kate Peachey, on display outside the church building along with three crosses. The portraits captured Jesus’ journey to the cross and his resurrection. We chose to put up this display to help our community reflect on the true meaning of Easter; the sacrifice that Jesus made dying on the cross to reconcile people to God. Many people doing their regular daily exercise in Tatura walked past the building and saw the paintings and crosses. Yes, the church building may be closed but as the bells ring each Sunday morning, please know that the church community are still here in Tatura, praying for you and believing we will come through this together.

- Rev Simba Musvamhiri

GENOA SMEATON

VICTORIAN TOWNS WORD SEARCH

1a – Golden Wattle

2a – Melbourne

3c – Van Diemen’s Land

4a – 1973

5d – Torres Strait

6b – Charles Sturt

7c – Great Victoria Desert 8c – Edmund Barton

– 1841

Bulletin QUIZ

See page 23 for answers

1. What is the national flower of Australia?

a. Golden Wattle

b. Waratah

c. Eucalyptus

d. Banksia

2.Which city was Australia’s capital from 1901 to 1927?

a. Melbourne

b. Sydney

c. Canberra

d. Brisbane

3. What was the original name for Tasmania?

a. Cook Island

b. South Land

c. Van Diemen’s Land

d. Dirk Hartog Land

4. In what year was the Sydney Opera House Opened?

a. 1973

b. 1978

c. 1983

d. 1988

5. What is the name of the strait between New Guinea and Australia?

a. Bering Strait

b. Cook Strait

c. Hartog Strait

d. Torres Strait

6. Who discovered the Murray River?

a. Major Mitchell

b. Charles Sturt

c. Ludwig Leichhardt

d. John Murray

7. What is the name of the largest desert in Australia?

a. Simpson Desert

b. Great Sandy Desert

c. Great Victoria Desert

d. Gibson Desert

8. Who was the first Australian Prime Minister?

a. Alfred Deakin

b. Andrew Fisher

c. Edmund Barton

d. Chris Watson

9. In which year did New Zealand become a separate colony from New South Wales?

a. 1798

b. 1823

c. 1832

d. 1841

10. How many ships were in the First Fleet?

a. 8

b. 9

c. 10

d. 11

Tatura Presbyterian Church

Minister: Kalpan Vasa

Worship Services

Tatura 10:30 am

Rushworth 9:00 am.

Weekly Bible study and Fellowship Groups

Contact 0477 241 042

All Saints Tatura

Anglican Church

Minister: Rev. Tracey Wolsley

Family Worship Service

Including Little Saints Children’s Program

Sundays at 9.30am

Contact 0423 267 405 www.allsaintstatura.org.au

Tatura Uniting Church

“Olive & Vine”

115 Hogan Street, Tatura

Minister: Brian Spencer 0400 274 482

Service 9.30am every Sunday.

Sep 3 Rev B Spencer

Zoom from Colbinabbin

Sep 10 Rev B Spencer, Communion

Rushworth

Sep 17 Gereldine Leonard, Tatura

Sep 24 Joan McRae, Murchison

See Waranga Uniting Churches

Web site for Zoom links

Sacred Heart Church Tatura

Minister: Rev Fr John Paul Pasala

Worship Services: Weekends

Saturday 6pm (1st & 3rd of the month)

Sunday 10.30am

Weekdays

Wednesday 9.15am

Friday 9.15am

Reconciliation:

1st Saturday of the month at 11.30am

Contact:

Ph. 5824 1049

Email: Tatura@cdos.org.au

www.sacredheartparishtatura.com.au

Generations Church Tatura

Senior Pastor: Ps Jeremy Burr 10am Service

03 58243240

295 Dhurringile Rd www.generations.org.au

RAINFALL FIGURES

Since 1980 I’ve been recording the rainfall in the Tatura/Toolamba area.

The wettest years have been 2010 (801ml), 2022 (742ml), 1993 (727ml), 2016 (703ml) and 2011 (688ml)

The wettest month was October 2022 with 212ml recorded.

The driest years have been 1982 (210ml), 2006 (231ml), 2002 (253ml), 2019 (261ml) and 1994 (295ml)

With El Nino predicted it will be interesting to see if the drier weather pattern continues.

- Andy Crawford

TATURA TENNIS CLUB

Your Tatura Tennis Club, Your Ideas. The Tatura Lawn Tennis Club is looking for ideas from community members about the future of tennis in Tatura.

The Tatura Tennis club formed in 1947, and over the years has been a popular social and sporting hub for tennis players and their families. The club has great facilities, amongst the best in the Goulburn Valley, with twelve grass and four synthetic courts with lights and a modern clubhouse with full kitchen, bathrooms, a bar and a shaded BBQ and seating area. The grounds are well maintained and secure for children.

Like other tennis clubs, participation has dropped in recent years and the club is keen to understand why, and what we can do to support more people playing tennis. We would love to see more adults of all ages, and children playing tennis. We want to know what community members need to make tennis more accessible. We are currently working on a new Strategic Plan to lead our club into the future, with the support of Greater Shepparton Council and Tennis Victoria. This planning process will include a review of club operations, surveys, and workshops with stakeholders. We will use the information and feedback to build the club’s plan for the future. As part of this process, over the next month or so the club will be undertaking a community-wide survey to get your ideas about how participation in tennis can be improved.

You can complete the survey at https://forms. office.com/r/v40Y8DBcRk and if you have any questions, you can call Club President Royden James on 0402 303 893.

Call Planright for all your civil engineering, irrigation and water needs. Subdivisions Planning Permits Designs

Phone: 5824 1322

139 Hogan Street, Tatura

Financial incentives for kindergarten teachers and educators.

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