Tatura Bulletin Feburary Edition

COMING EVENTS GARAGE SALE

TAT FEST

Sunday 5 March 10am – 4pm

Mactier Gardens Free Entry and Free Children’s entertainment

CHARITY CAR SHOW

And Open Day

Saturday 18 March 9am to 12 noon

Hussln Auto Detailing Hogan Street Tatura

25TH ANNUAL HERITAGE DAY

Merrigum Museum

Sunday 2 April 10am to 3pm

Adults $10.00

Children $2.00

BBQ lunch available

WORLD DAY OF PRAYER

The 2023 World Day of Prayer will be held at All Saints Anglican Church Tatura at 2pm on Friday 3 March. Afternoon tea will follow.

Highlighted this year is the church in Taiwan.

MERRIGUM HISTORICAL SOCIETY

The Merrigum Museum is open on the second Saturday of each month 10am to 3pm. Other times by arrangement.

Entry Adults $5.00 each Children $2.00

Group Bookings welcome. Ph. Flo on 5855 2330

GARAGE SALE

Saturday 4 March

8.00am - 2.00pm

42 Gowrie Street, Tatura. Linen Crockery, Cutlery Kitchenware

Craft Supplies

Pot Plants

Gardening Tools

Lots of Bric a brac

OLIVE & VINE

THE OLIVE & VINE CAFÉ is open Wednesday

10 am -2pm

Join us for Morning Tea/Lunch

You will be made very welcome.

THE ESSENCE OF A WOMAN

by Sharron Handley

Wild and free

Hear me, see me, Love me, want me, Sexy, fast, loud and free. See me, hear me, Let me be.

I twirl, I sing, I run, I dance. Move with me, hold me, Set me free.

We’re wild and sexy And fast and free

Together we move, wild and free

TATURA BULLETIN 2023 DATES

Tatura Area Community Bulletin

GV TREE GROUP PLAN YOUR PLANTING

Windbreaks and shelter belts are protection for your livestock and create habitat for native birds as well as improving the aesthetics of your property.

To do it well it is important to plan your planting and now is the perfect time to start. As the saying goes, ‘failing to plan is planning to fail’.

Site selection: Which direction do your cold winds come from? The hot afternoon sun will be on the west so keep that in mind for shade. Can I use existing fences? Overhead powerlines need to be avoided as well as subsurface infrastructure.

Weed control: Weeds grow quickly and take away valuable water and nutrients.

Options can include cultivating, slashing, weed matting and herbicides (always follow directions).

Deep ripping: This is especially important on heavy soils or soil with a clay subsurface. Ripping helps young tube stock develop a robust deep root system which improves survival over summer. Ripping also helps soil to absorb welcome rain.

Mounding: This may be needed for low lying areas prone to waterlogging.

Pest Control: If you have rabbits or hares in your area then tree guards are essential. Fencing: Some of our customers come back

to buy more plants after their cattle have devoured or trampled their plants. Fencing is essential.

Water: young trees will benefit greatly from a drink during dry spells for the first two years. Remember to plant only enough trees that you know you can manage to water over the summer months.

Good luck with your plans.

We are now open for sales Tuesday mornings at 6 Kerford Street Tatura.

We look forward to seeing you soon.

Happy planting! - Deb

Happy Planters

Pasta Bolognaise

EASY PASTA BOLOGNAISE

Ingredients:

2 tablespoons Tomato Paste

1 can Diced Tomatoes

1/2 kg Beef Mince

1 Beef Stock Cube

1 large Onion

1 cup Water

1/2 teaspoon Oregano

1/4 teaspoon Thyme

2 cups Pasta

Method:

Boil pasta in water.

Fry onion in pan.

Add mince and cook until brown.

Add all other ingredients.

Bring to Boil and simmer one hour.

MURCHISON AUSTRALIA DAY AWARDS

Regions Finest Recognised

Locals Gathered at Murchison Pool to not only acknowledge the traditional owners of this country throughout Australia and their continuing connection to land, water, and culture but respect was also acknowledged to their elders past, present and emerging. Awards were acknowledged to the regions finest citizens who put so many volunteering hours to keep organisations, committees and the community intact.

Cr Seema Abdullah was in attendance and presented two awards to Murchison Young Citizen of the Year, 16-year-old Denni Bathman for her outstanding efforts within the community. Denni was also awarded Greater Shepparton Young Citizen of the Year. This is a fantastic achievement and Denni is a great ambassador for the whole region.

Gordon Newton received the Citizen of the Year for Murchison, giving five decades of service to his local community such as the Murchison Lions Club, Cemetery Trust, and Uniting Church, just to name a few.

Aaron Niglia received the Sports Award after an amazing year on the soccer field. Aaron took out the Central Victoria League youth competition Best and Fairest while playing for Tatura in the Bendigo Amateur Soccer League. The Historical Society received the Community Event of the Year for exhibiting artwork for the late Liz Ewart. The popularity of ‘Lizzie’s Legacy’ ran for several extra weeks with over 500 visitors attending to view these amazing art pieces. Murchison guest speaker was Dhurringile identity Wendy Stops, (nee Chessells). Her success in technology has led to an incredible life in the corporate world and she gave an amazing talk about growing up in the region to leading a successful company as CEO both in Australia and Internationally.

- Janice Dreyer

The Australia Day committee (who are all volunteers) give up their time for this wonderful community by offering free hot breakfast and entertainment for this wonderful place we live in. New members are welcomed. All sponsors were thanked for their kind donations. Avonlea Flowers, Murchison Supa Valu, Longleat Winery, Murchison East Railway Hotel, Murchison Post Office, Rushworth & District Community Bank, Hunters Mitre 10, Winning Edge Presentations, Murchison RSL, Lions Club, Murch Men’s Shed, Greater Shepparton City Council and GV Water.

Mrs Wendy Stops

HWendy grew up as a young child and teenager in Dhurringile on the family’s dairy farm. She attended Dhurringile Primary School and later Shepparton South Technical School, before heading to Melbourne to attend the Caulfield Institute of Technology (now Monash University) graduating with a Bachelor of Applied Science (Information Technology).

Wendy is currently the Chair and Non-executive Director of Blackmores Group, a Non-executive Director of Coles Group and the not-for-profit Fitted for Work, and a Deputy Chancellor and Council Member of The University of Melbourne. In addition, Wendy is the Chair of the Industry Advisory Board for the Centre for Business Analytics at the Melbourne Business School, a member of the AICD’s Governance of Innovation and Technology Advisory panel, and a member of Chief Executive Women’s Leaders Development Committee. Wendy was previously a non-executive director of the Commonwealth Bank of Australia and Altium, and a member of the Digital Experts Advisory Committee for the Digital Taskforce in the federal government’s Department of Industry, Science and Resources. Prior to taking up her career as director, Wendy was an information technology and management consultant, spending her 32+ year career with global leader Accenture. During her final years with Accenture, she had been in various regional and global senior management leadership positions including Director of Operations (COO) – Asia Pacific; Global Senior Managing Director, Outsourcing – Quality and Risk Management; Global Senior Managing Director, Technology - Quality and Risk Management; and finally, as Senior Managing Director, Technology - Asia Pacific. Over her career with Accenture Wendy worked across multiple industry sectors and operated across multiple countries (including living in New York, Singapore, and Kuala Lumpur). Wendy is also a member of Chief Executive Women and a Graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors (GAICD).

Junior Citizen Award Denni Bathman

Cr Seema Abdullah, Wendy Stops and Bruce Smith

Aaron Niglia with Cr Seema Abdullah

Gordon Newton and Cr Seema Abdullah

Kay Ball

AUSTRALIA DAY TATURA

Victory Hall was filled with people celebrating Australia Day 2023. After the ‘Welcome to Country’ by Aaron Wallace there was the raising of the flag, the opening blessing and musical entertainment. The worthy recipients of the 2023 Australia Day Awards were then presented with their awards.

Citizen of the Year 2023

John (Jack) Lowe

John tirelessly contributes to the local community in so many ways. He is always prepared to go above and beyond to ensure he puts other before himself.

He has always been a quiet achiever and is constantly involved in the Tatura community in many ways for all his life. He is always willing to help, mentor and assist where and when needed and is always happy to provide excellent counselling to guide others. His contributions to our local community span over many years and in many different ways. He is an outstanding listener, gentle and considerate to all he meets. He is an active member of Probus, spent 40 years on the Myola Aged Care committee and is heavily involved in International Dairy Week. Jack was awarded Life Membership of Apex due to his outstanding service to his community.

Senior Citizen of the Year 2023

Thelma Wood

Thelma is a retired schoolteacher. She has strong leadership skills and leads by example. She is always willing to put up her hand to assist in any way she can. She welcomes and encourages others, promotes inclusion, and fosters community involvement. She has had a huge impact at both the Byrneside and Tatura communities. Thelma is very creative and this with her musical ability has provided much entertainment and enjoyment over the years. Thelma has been involved in the Byrneside Hall Committee, Tennis Club and Primary School Parent Club. She has also been a member of the Rodney CWA for many years, is an Anglican Church organist and has been secretary of the Merrigum Kindergarten.

Sports Award 2023

Elsie Boyer

Elsie excels as a young sportswoman at her preferred sport of netball.

She has played her entire netball career at Tatura. She commenced her pathway at the Tatura Netball Association (TNA), and currently plays with the Tatura Football Netball Club (TFNC) Elsie started playing netball at about the age of five and is still only 18. She has been a multiple squad representative at all levels of netball, including at the Shepparton Netball Association (SNA), Netball Victoria Talent Academy, Association & State Championships, GVL interleague level & Victorian Netball League (VNL). A prodigious talent, Elsie is an elite netballer, and sportswoman on any measure. Elise also umpires & coaches & holds her C Badge umpire and foundation coaching accreditations.

Elsie has made significant contributions to the Tatura netball community, particularly the TFNC. While still only 15, she made her A Grade debut, and at 16 became Co-Captain in 2021, and Captain in 2022. She also coaches and umpires at GVL level, including Assistant Coach at 15 & Under level in 2021 & senior squad training coach roles.

She holds the responsibility of managing the Club's entire social media platforms – a vital contributor to communication, & link to the broader community. She has also been the driver responsible for the ongoing update & ecommerce platform for the Club's merchandise & uniforms. Her volunteer contributions play a vital role in the TFNC's – Tatura's largest community group.

Elsie is the most distinguished & decorated Tatura junior netballer of recent times, if not of all time. Consequently, she is a role model for netball success for Tatura junior netballers. Likewise, she is also a prime example of the pathway for high achievement at the elite level of netball. She not only inspires those junior netballers of lower age, but constantly provides the same to her teammates through her natural leadership abilities.

Guest Speaker

Alex (Lachie) Ranson - Local Legend

Alex has been a long-term resident of Tatura and has done some marvellous work within our community and made substantial contributions on a volunteer basis to many organisations and has been involved in many clubs locally and at times taking on leadership positions, especially with cricket. Alex gave an inspiring presentation on his experiences.

He opened the first self-service proceri store in Tatura and has spent many years involved in cricket both in Australia, England and Scotland. This includes 38 years coaching in the seven different English Counties, 22 years as a cricket professional at Dulwich College in London and 14 years as the director of Cricket at a college in Scotland.

Locally Alex is a life member of the Tatura Football Club and has spent many years on the Sacred Heart School Board.

COMPUTER GENDER

A retired sailor purchased a computer and began to learn all about computing. Being a sailor, he was used to addressing his ships as "She" or "Her" but was unsure what was proper for computers. To solve his dilemma, he set up two groups of computer experts: one group was male, and the other group was female.

The group of women reported that computers should be referred to as "HE" because:

1. In order to get their attention you have to turn them on.

2. They have a lot of data but are still clueless.

3. They are supposed to help you solve problems but half the time they are the problem.

4. As s.....oon as you commit to one, you realise that if you had waited a little longer, you could have had a newer and better model.

The group of men reported that computers should be referred to as "SHE" because:

1. No one but the creator understands their logic.

2. The native language they use to talk to other computers is incomprehensible to anyone else.

3. Even your smallest mistakes are stored in long term memory for later retrieval.

4. As soon as you make a commitment to one, you find yourself spending half your paycheque on accessories for it.

HISTORY OF THE CHURCHES in MURCHISON

THE ANGLICAN CHURCH

Christ Church Anglican Church was built in 1884 on the corner of Impey and Watson Streets. Prior to this, Anglican services were held in the Mechanics Institute, Presbyterian, and Methodist churches. An early service held in the Mechanics Institute in 1876 boasted a congregation of sixty people.

Dedication of the church by Bishop Goe did not take place until 1895, the delay thought to be due to the policy of clearing debt on the building before this formal step. The red brick building is described as rural Gothic revival in style, typical of the era but with an unusual transverse gableroofed entry porch at the west end. A special feature are the high-quality colourful stained-glass windows, notably the three sanctuary windows in memory of Thomas Prettejohn who died in 1900, that are by renowned stained-glass artist, William Montgomery.

Montgomery produced around 2000 stained glass windows in Melbourne and across rural Victoria and New south Wales during an impressive career spanning nearly 40 years. Other very attractive windows are by Brooks, Robinson & Co. and are in memory of members of the Gregory family, Major Ernest Gregory, his sister Muriel and their mother Mary. The Dargalong Church, built in 1897, was transported to Murchison in 1930 to become the Sunday School and Meeting Hall and continues to be used as the Church Hall today.

In earlier times, the minister lived in the rectory next door in Impey Street, which was built in 1920. Since it was partially destroyed by fire in 1961, the minister has resided in neighbouring towns.

Christ Church is in the Diocese of Wangaratta and at various times over the years has been part of parishes that have included Arcadia, Avenel, Nagambie, and Rushworth, and more recently Christ Church together with St. Paul’s at Rushworth have been attached to Shepparton.

A new structure has been formalised as from the 20th of November last year when Bishop Clarence officially declared Murchison and Rushworth churches a stand-alone Parochial District.

Rev. Bill Squires is the Locum Priest at present until the permanent Priest, Rev. Andre De Ploy commences in April. Andre has been the priest in Kilmore since 2019 but prior to that, ministered at Murchison and along with his wife Michelle, is a very welcome and popular familiar face who will provide ministry arrangements from the Parochial District of Violet Town, Longwood, and Euroa.

City of Greater Shepparton lists Christ Church Murchison in their Heritage Study, and notes it to be ‘of local historic, aesthetic and social significance’.

Regular church services are held at 11am each Sunday except on the fifth Sunday in the month when the service is a combined one at 10.30am, held alternately at St. Paul’s in Rushworth. More about the other Murchison churches, the Catholic Church and Uniting Church, in future editions of Tatura Bulletin.

- Kay Ball, Murchison & District Historical Society Inc

The Anglican Church

Montgomery’s Sanctuary Windows

Inside Christ Church

PROBUS

Our meeting held on February 23 was an interesting one with two very good speakers. Our Member Behind the Badge was Bill Milner, who spoke of his early years in war torn England and of his decision to emigrate to Australia when he was only 15. It was a brave decision as he was alone but has proven to be the right one. He stayed at the Training Farm in Tatura and learnt the fundamentals of dairy farming which held him in good stead in later years.

There is more to tell. So the Club has asked him to speak again at another meeting. The members were quite enthralled by Bill’s story. The Guest Speaker was Robert Miller who told us of deciding on another occupation, other than farming due to the drought conditions and water allocation. He left the farming duties to his son David and applied to Fords Bus Lines. He was fortunate to gain a position driving a school bus and stayed with this route for four years. He told us of some incidents that occurred in this time which were very humorous.

He also told of doing a Coach Captain’s Course which included looking after the vehicle, learning how to be a commentator and to study points of interest, and putting these points into practice. A highlight of his bus driving career was a trip to the Red Centre. This was an eleven-day tour with two buses and two drivers to each bus. They visited the Telegraph Station, Flying Doctors and numerous other sites, not forgetting Uluru and the Olgas. After almost 20 years of bus driving Robert decided to bring this part of his life to a close. The members thoroughly enjoyed Robert’s talk.

Our lunch date in January was at ‘Taste of Capri’ in Mooroopna which was most enjoyable. The lucky ticket prize, donated by Craig Bramley, Manager of Foodworks Tatura, was won by Anna Ciavarella

For further information about the Probus Club please contact club secretary Wendy Wilson on 5824 3843.

- Barb Halliwell

A HUGE UPSET WIN

A Tatura Hilltop bowls foursome comprising the experienced and capable Hilltop bowler Russell Locke, joined with some relative novice bowlers to surprise all to take out the prestigious Kyabram Honour Board Fours event held mid-February. The side was made up Russell Locke, his two sons Riley and Josh and Tatura's Mitch Reeves. Riley and Josh basically only bowl socially and do not play in pennant and Mitch Reeves is just into his first year of bowls but is already showing in local level events and GV events that he has plenty of ability and will be assuredly a dominant player in years to come. To the surprise of many the Mitch Reeves skipped side made the final and won the event in a playoff. A tremendous achievement against a full field of two greens filled with many capable and experienced opposition teams

Book Reviews

- John Crilly

WITH KERRY…

The Bellbird River Country Choir By Sophie Green

Bellbird River 1998: Teacher and single mum Alex is newly arrived at Bellbird River after escaping the city in search of a change of pace and the chance to reconnect with her young daughter.

Victoria and her globe-trotting opera-singing cousin Gabrielle find themselves at a crossroads in their personal and professional lives.

Janine, the local baker and newcomer to the district, and Debbie are each secretly dealing

with the consequences of painful pasts. Bellbird River could just be a pit stop on the road to somewhere else, but their town holds secrets and surprises – and it has a heart: The Bellbird River Country Choir.

This is a story of fresh beginnings, unexpected friendships, love and community. A wonderful story and such brilliant characters. I will be looking out for her other books.

Kerry Gardner

Robert Miller

Riley Locke, Russell Locke, Mitch Reeves and Josh Locke

TAT FEST

Tat Fest is back for 2023. Come along on Sunday 5 March from 10am to 4pm to the Mactier Gardens in Tatura.

There will be entertainment for young and old, live music, Ky bush poets, bouncing castle, abseiling tower and lots more. There will be demonstrations by Ambulance Victoria, Tatura Fire Brigade and Tatura SES. If you like reptiles come and see Tiny Tails Encounter. Lots of variety stalls will be there and there will be plenty of food and drink options. The Annual Art Auction will be held featuring paintings done by local school children. Come along for a great day out.

MOYOLA LODGE RAFFLE

Please buy a ticket!

It is time again for Moyola Lodge Auxiliary’s Easter raffle. The hamper will have plenty of goodies to delight your taste buds. Tickets will be sold outside 330 Hogan St from 9am to 1pm on the following days:

Thursday, March 23

Friday, March 24

Saturday, March 25

Thursday, March 30

Friday, March 31

Saturday, April 1

The raffle will be drawn on April 1 at 12 noon. We hope you will all purchase a ticket or two to support Moyola Lodge.

TATURA FIRE BRIGADE

The Tatura Fire Brigade are looking for new members.

Did you know that the brigade is;

• Run by volunteers,

• Has 31 members,

• Was founded in 1902,

• Attends 105 callouts each year,

• Provides assistance to the SES, Ambulance service and the police. They attend house fires, road rescues and bushfires. If you are interested they would love to talk to you. Contact Trevor 0403 560 238 or go to www.cfa.vic.gov.au/volunteers-careers/volunteer-with-cfa

MERRIGUM HISTORICAL SOCIETY

Merrigum Historical Society 25th Annual Heritage Day

The Merrigum Historical Society 25th Annual Heritage Day will be held on Sunday, April 2 this year. Come and see things done the ‘hard way’ with working demonstrations of old skills taking place on the day such as hay-baling and chaff making, vintage engines, butter churning and lots more. Adults $10.00 Children $2.00. B.B.Q lunch is available and a raffle at the Merrigum Museum 111-113 Waverley Avenue Merrigum, Phone 58552330 or email merrigummuseum@gmail.com

Butter Making

Chaff Cutting

RODNEY CWA

This year’s Australia Day saw our member, Thelma Wood, receive a Citizen of the Year Award, in recognition of her service to the community. Well-deserved Thelma!

At our February meeting, members were delighted to catch up after the summer break. Our Guest Speaker was Michelle Parrish. Michelle is one of two McGrath Breast Care Nurses based at Goulburn Valley Health. She has worked with the McGrath Foundation for 14 years and has seen patients aged from 24 years to 100 years diagnosed with breast cancer. She works with a range of health care workers involved with the treatment of breast cancer. Shepparton now has radiotherapy available as well as chemotherapy.

The breast care nurse is available free of charge throughout the entire time of treatment. This year it is expected 22,000 patients will be diagnosed; the survival rate is now 92% Early detection is vital and a monthly selfexamination is recommended. Breast screen is available from 40 years to 75 years of age every two years. Upon request breast screen can continue beyond these years.

Michelle was a most informative speaker with a strong message not only for our members but their extended families.

SUDOKU No. 79

A small gift was presented to Michelle by President Mandy Perkins as a token of thanks for her time given.

Competition Winner – Janette Mason’s daffodil cross-stitch, Best Bloom -- Shirley Harrison’s fuchsia. Next meeting – International -- at the Tatura Bowls Clubrooms March 9th at 1:30.

Our country of study this year is Namibia. Competition: An African Animal. We are expecting a guest speaker from Africa House. Our Juniors met on February 2nd. There was a good attendance and the girls enjoyed making bookmarks. Their competition was, ‘Favourite Book’. At the next meeting, March 2nd, at 7 pm, they will make felt rabbits, and competition is, “A Nursery Rhyme that you like”.

Beatrice Greaves, publicity

Mandy presenting Michelle with a thank-you gift

Lorraine helping Molly with her bookmark

TATURA BOWLS CLUB

In the Tatura Bowls Club's Men's Championship Singles final, Darryn Carpenter finally broke the drought to take out this years' Championship final defeating Brendon Boyd 25 to 23 in a highly competitive and skilful game. Carpenter had been runner-up four times previously, twice at his former Mooroopna Club, and at Tatura in 2019, defeated by 1 shot by Josh LeSueur, and in 2021 a loss to Jason Carter who that year went onto win the Goulburn Valley Bowls Division's Champion of Champions.

The Championship final between Carpenter and Boyd was tight throughout with seven lead changes and with Carpenter winning 15 ends to Boyd's 14. A wonderful bowling performance by both players and witnessed by many enthralled spectators. Carpenter has continued to perform admirably in the Champion of Champions knockouts against other club champions and at the time of the Bulletin close for publication, was into the final four and is to meet Stanhope's club champion, Tim Hancock in the semi-final. Other events recently completed included the Tatura Bowls Club's Pairs final which was won by John Attood and Ash McDonell who comfortably accounted for Peter Wallis and

John Crilly. The family affair of Grandfather John Attwood and Grandson Ash McDonell also won this event in 2021.

The Goulburn Murray Bowls Region Novice Singles had Tatura's Mitch Reeves win several stages but lost out narrowly 17 to 21 in the semi-final. Hill Top's Mark Bentley won his semi-final and then went onto win the championship final comfortably 21 to 10. Mark then played other region novice winners at Mulgrave Country Club in Melbourne, winning his first game and then eliminated narrowly in his second game 21 to 19.

Tatura bowler Nick Tziros recently journeyed to his former club at Lake Cargelligo in NSW to compete in fours, pairs and singles tournaments and jointly shared the Singles final with Warren Cocksedge from Taree. Nick was leading 6 to 3 in the first to 21 final when the game was abandoned due to heavy rain. Goulburn Valley Championship Fours winners Brian Mandersloop, Mitch Reeves, Brendon Boyd and Nick Boyd defeated the Murray region champions over 15 ends 16 to 8 and now have made the final 16 in the state and will next compete in knockout rounds at Bendigo in April.

- John Crilly

Lake Cargelligo Singles Winners

Club Pairs Championship

TATURA RSL

On Friday the 3rd. February 2023, the Annual General Meeting of the Tatura R.S.L took place. All positions were declared open and subsequently filled, unchanged. Veteran Mr. Robin Fairchild, President, Mr. Garth McMahon, Vice President, Mrs. Mary Coad, Secretary and Veteran Mr. Mark Sommers, Treasurer. All other support positions to the Executive were also filled and unchanged.

Tatura R.S.L. recently received an invitation from the Ballarat R.S.L to attend ‘The Australian Ex –Prisoners of War Memorial,’ 19th. Year Anniversary Service, at Ballarat. This was to take place on the 12th February 2023. Tatura R.S.L. organised a coach with a driver and went. Invitations were extended to other R.S.L. members in nearby Sub Branches and community members and partners. The Memorial Site in Wendouree Parade displays the names of 36,000 Australian Prisoners of War including the Boer War, World War 1, World War 2 and the Korean War. There were no known Australian POWs of the Vietnam War. This magnificent Memorial honours those Australian prisoners, their names etched in a long, black granite wall. There is no rank, service number or enlistment detail; in recognition that sacrifice, suffering and desperation acknowledged no person’s status. These men and woman are equals. The early arrival at the Memorial Site allowed for the coach travellers to take in the surrounds and find the names of ex-prisoners that were important to them. There is also a row of tall stone obelisks, each bearing the names of countries where Australians were held as Prisoners of War.

The Official Service began with the Master of Ceremonies being Bruce Roberts, known to us as the Win TV News presenter. Many dignitaries spoke and formalities were undertaken throughout this Formal Service. Robin Fairchild laid a beautiful wreath of roses, prepared by Veronica Dowell, on behalf of the Tatura R.S.L. Thank you, Veronica.

Shortly after the Service, we all climbed back on the coach, chaperoned by a Mr. Colin Waugh who once lived and was schooled in the Toolamba/ Shepparton area and is now a longtime resident of Ballarat. Destination, a lovely bakery nearby.

This was followed by Colin once again directing the coach driver to the ‘Arch of Victory’ that defines the commencement of a 22 kilometre treed, ‘Avenue of Honour.’ Near the ‘Arch of Victory’ is a very moving monument, in the ‘Garden of the Grieving Mother’. This bronze monument depicts a mother standing with head bowed, clutching a large, framed photograph of her son in uniform.

The coach departed Ballarat around 3pm homeward bound. A big thank you to Mr. Colin Waugh for his efforts at the Ballarat end, as stated in this article. Also, to Jacobson’s Bus Lines, Mooroopna and Mr. Bob. McKenzie the coach driver.

The Tatura Water Tower lights have finally been installed and are up and running. Worth a look! At this stage they shut off at 10pm. Thank you, Rob. Mathieson for your long-time dedication to this project.

Keep in mind Anzac Day 25th April is only a couple of months away.

SPECIALIST WOMEN’S HEALTH SERVICE

The first milestone in the establishment of a unique Victorian women's mental health service has been reached with the opening of in-patient and at-home support for women and those who identify as women in the Goulburn Valley area.

Alfred Health, Goulburn Valley Health and Ramsay Health Care have partnered to deliver the first of its kind Specialist Women’s Mental Health Service; an expert hybrid of private and public hospital care.

The service will use a ‘hub and spoke’ model for specialist mental health service provision, with the central hub based in Melbourne, and the Goulburn Valley in-home and in-patient care delivered at Ramsay’s Shepparton Private Hospital, the first of the spokes.

Director Women’s Mental Health Service, Dr Jenny Babb from Alfred Health, said the service has been developed to fill a gap in female-focused psychiatric care.

“What we know is that women need to feel safe when receiving mental health care services, and that they need care that is specifically tailored to them,” Dr Babb said.

“This service model has been co-designed by people with lived experienced and recognises the significant need for a trauma-informed, holistic service for Victorian women.

“The partnership also allows for providing consultation and support to build capacity of local services to provide world-leading care.”

Dr Rajlaxmi Khopade, Consultant Psychiatrist at GV Health said women are approximately twice as likely to suffer from mental illness when compared to men, which is why specialised care is required.

“In addition, we recognise that women face unique challenges including high rates of sexual and physical abuse, single parenthood and poverty, which along with other social

and economic inequities, act as barriers to accessing mental healthcare,” Dr Khopade said.

“Working as a mental health practitioner in the Goulburn Valley region for over a decade, I have witnessed these issues first-hand among the women I treat. I am immensely proud to be part of the launch of a new service that will better support women in our community on their journey to recovery.”

Director of Ramsay Mental Health, Anne Mortimer, said Ramsay is proud to provide private in-patient facilities and experienced teams to help Victorian women experiencing mental health issues.

“Ramsay Health Care is the largest private provider of mental health services in Australia and has established a reputation for providing reliable, high-quality mental health care to Australians. The in-patient service at Shepparton Private Hospital will offer Victorian women leading care in separate treatment spaces to ensure their comfort, safety and dignity.” In the coming months, the Alfred Health and Ramsay Health Care teams will commence delivery of psychiatric care to women in the metropolitan Melbourne community, with the service’s hub to open in the second half of 2023.

The development of the new service is driven by recommendations from the Royal Commission into Victoria's Mental Health System, which heard that a range of genderbased safety issues significantly impacted women’s experiences of in-patient mental health care.

The statewide service will support women and those who identify as women aged over 18 with mental health conditions, including presentation during the perinatal period and eating disorders.

Lest we forget. Mal Watts,

Tatura R.S.L. member.

TATURA COMMUNITY HOUSE

TCH News February 2023

The Term 1 program has started and we’ve hit the ground running, offering a variety of activities with something for everyone. If you’re interested in something that we don’t offer, give us a call and we will see if we can get any new groups going. We are always open to new ideas.

Here is a selection of our Term 1 Programs. Homework Club – Free Tutoring: These tutoring sessions are held in small groups with very individual attention to each student. Our retired teachers Bev and Iris are happy to support students in primary and secondary schools. The tutoring sessions are free of charge – just give it a try. Pop in the library every Tuesday afternoon. Primary students 3:45 to 4:30pm and secondary students 4:30 to 5:15pm.

Genealogy – Family History Group: Would you like to know more about your family’s history? Our volunteers Garry and Lois will help you unravel the past and show you how to research your family’s history. They have an abundance of knowledge and can get you started on your own journey into the past. Every Wednesday 1:00 to 3:00pm, $5 per session.

Boomerang Bags: Join our lovely boomerang bags group and help make our famous bags while enjoying a cuppa and a few chats. You don’t have to have any experience, there is always something to do: cutting, ironing, sewing. This is a great opportunity to socialise while giving back to the community. Every Thursday 9:15am to 12:00pm – and you get a free latte/cappuccino!

Women’s Health Clinic – Free/Bulk

Billing: In partnership with GV Health, a Women’s Health Clinic will be available at the Community House. This will be a monthly, free, and confidential sexual and reproductive health service which will be for women of all

ages. The first Women’s Health Clinic will be held on Tuesday, March 7 from 10:00am to 2:00pm.

The clinic will provide information, support, clinical services and appropriate specialist referral services for issues surrounding:

• Cervical screening (Pap smears)

• Contraception

• Continence issues

• Counselling

• Sexual Health concerns

• Genital pain and discomfort

Justice of the Peace

Do you need a document certified? We have a Justice of the Peace on site to certify and sign your documents. The JP will be available every Monday 10:00am to 12:00pm.

COMING UP IN TERM 2

Digital Essentials I and II – Would you like to learn the basics of how to operate your smartphone or tablet in a small and friendly group setting with plenty of time to learn and apply your knowledge straight asway? Then these 10-session classes are the thing for you! Each session is three hours, a minimum of 6 learners is required, course fee is $130 full fee and $103 concession. Please call the community house to express your interest 5824 1315.

Fashion Parade – Fashions through the decades coming in May! If you have clothes or dresses from the last century and are willing to lend them to the community house to present on the runway, give us a call on 5824 1315.

Volunteers Needed

If you would like to get involved, give the Community House a call on 5824 1315.

Tom Boocock and Nadine Pichler

See page 17 for answers

1. The world’s longest fence was built to keep out which animal?

a. Camels.

b. Kangaroos.

c. Rabbits.

d. Dingoes.

2. What is the nearest galaxy to the Solar System?

a. Andromeda

b. Aquarius

c. Centaurus A

d. Ursa Minor

3. What does a campanologist do?

a. Collects tents

b. Sculpts wood

c. Rings bells

d. Studies trees

4. What is the capital City of Croatia?

a. Zagreb

b. Sofia

c. Belgrade

d. Skopje

5. What year did the Beatles break up?

a. 1970

b. 1972

c. 1973

d. 1975

6. How old is a horse when it changes from a filly to a mare?

a. 1 year

b. 2 years

c. 3 years

d. 4 years

7. What is the national animal of Indonesia?

a. Tiger

b. Mongoose

c. Komodo Dragon

d. Malayan Sun Bear

8. What are female elephants called?

a. Cows

b. Mares

c. Sows

d. Jennys

9. What is the national language of Brazil?

a. English.

b. Spanish

c. Portuguese

d. French.

10. A referendum is a vote to change what?

a. The government

b. The constitution

c. The Governor-General

d. The Prime Minister

A HEART HEALTH CHECK

February is Heart Health Awareness month. Our heart is a muscle that pumps blood around the body transporting oxygen and nutrients to different parts of the body. The food that we eat, lifestyle habits and activity levels affect the heart. We can take control of keeping our heart healthy by making good lifestyle choices. Here are five tips keep your heart healthy:

1. Eat a heart-healthy diet. Include five serves of vegetables and two serves of fruits a day and a variety of healthy protein such as fish, seafood, lean meat, poultry, legumes and seeds. Eat more whole grain cereals or bread. Choose to include Omega 3 and 6 fats which are found in nuts, seeds, fish and avocados. Cook with healthier oils such as olive oil, canola, sunflower, etc. Read food labels to check the amount of sugar, fat & salt content in foods that you buy.

2. Keep your Blood pressure in control. Blood pressure is the pressure of your blood around the walls of the arteries as your heart pumps it around the body. High blood pressure increases the risk of heart disease over a period of time. Use more herbs and spices for flavor and eat less than 1teaspoon of salt(5g) in a day, to reduce your blood pressure.

3. Keep your Cholesterol under control. Cholesterol is a fatty substance that moves around your body and can be good or bad types. Bad cholesterol (Low density Lipoprotein or LDL) can stick to your arteries and cause blockages and increase the risk of a heart attack. Reduce foods such as cakes, pastries, pizzas and deep-fried foods which contain saturated and trans fats. Make healthy fat choices such as nuts, seeds, avocados and olives and their oils for cooking.

4. Physical activity reduces the risk of heart disease. Any physical activity such as gardening, walking, bike rides or dancing reduces the risk of heart disease. Sit less and take regular breaks every 30 minutes whether you are at work or watching TV. It is recommended to have 30-60minutes of moderate intensity physical activity such as brisk walks, on most days of the week. This can also help to control your blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

5. Quitting smoking decreases your risk of heart disease. Smoking damages your blood vessels but quitting smoking almost straight away reduces your risk of heart disease. It is not easy to take the step but it requires persistence. You can reach out to the GV health self- management team on 1800222582 to receive support with quit smoking. Your doctor is also able to offer you different options with medications or Nicotine replacement therapy such as patches, gum lozenges or mouth spray. An Annual Heart health check is recommended for those above 45yrs. This will include measuring your blood pressure and cholesterol levels. It will help your doctor to support you in improving your heart health and manage your risk. Please ask your doctor on your next visit

ACTIVITIES IN THE PARK UPDATE

Firstly, I would like to thank you for your ongoing contribution and commitment of Greater Shepparton's Activities in the Park program.

Whilst in its eleventh year, the last three years have been particularly challenging and to maintain the program has taken the absolute commitment of both our valued facilitators and staff for which I say a personal and sincere well done and thank you.

You are no doubt aware that in recent weeks, Belinda Conna, who has been with Council and the AitP program since conception has taken up an exciting new role with the Victorian Government in Public Health. I can also confirm that Carmen Nicholson who has also been with the program since its inception and Kellie Smith have confirmed their intention to finish up with Council in coming weeks, again for exciting new opportunities for which we wish them well.

This leaves an obvious gap in our ability to maintain the AitP program in its current form in coming months. Rest assured, recruitment for these important roles is underway and in coming months, I look forward to introducing you to new members of the Healthy Communities and Activities in the Park team as well as a plan for the program into the future.

While this recruitment and subsequent training of new staff takes place, we do have other department team members taking on some but not all roles that are required to run the program. With this in mind, we have taken the decision to modify the program in coming months to allow for this transition and at the same time maintain the program so it can scale back up once staffing allows.

Unfortunately, in the short term, we simply

don't have the capacity to do the work necessary in liaising with our valued external facilitators and organisations that are part of our program. It's this planning and coordination work that whilst valuable does take considerable time to ensure success and we simply can't sustain that at this time.

We will, however, maintain the program in a reduced capacity and aim to run a number of Activities over coming months using Councils internal teams who have the capacity to coordinate some activities as they have previously. Our limited resources as described will focus on the promotion of those activities through our website, App and socials etc. While this means the traditional March and April program will look different, we remain committed to the year-round delivery of the Activities in the Park program with the program varying according to the season as has always been the case. Once recruitment and training has taken place, we look forward to coming back to you all with details of the future of the program.

I can only apologise for any inconvenience this causes in the short term but trust that you understand the unique situation we find ourselves in. Rest assured, we are well advanced in the steps necessary to get back on track later in the year and ask for your patience in the meantime.

In closing, I'd like to thank you again for your commitment to the Activities in the Park program and on behalf of you all, wish the little team that has achieved great things over the years, namely Belinda, Carmen, Kellie and even Jenna who left us in recent years all the very best in their future endeavours.

- David Booth

FINANCE with Lynette

Key tips for buying, selling and borrowing in the current market

With property prices declining in many parts of the country, and many people’s borrowing capacity falling as well, this is a different market than we’ve seen in many years.

So here are some important tips around buying, selling and securing finance right now.

Buyers

Buyers are usually the big winners in falling markets, because they generally face less competition and can score better deals. During downturns, the number of for-sale properties generally rises. Unsurprisingly, then, property listings in December were 4.6% higher than the year before, according to SQM Research. That means now could be a good time for you with more choice and greater chance of securing a bargain.

First-home buyers

If you’re a first-home buyer, you may be able to take advantage of federal and state government housing incentives. Reach out if you’d like me to explain which ones you might qualify for.

Relocators

If you’re moving home – whether you’re upsizing, downsizing or ‘same-sizing’ – think carefully about the order in which you do the two transactions.

In a falling market, it is worth considering selling first (when prices are higher) and buying second (when they’re lower), however keep in mind you may need interim accommodation between the two.

Upsizers

A falling market can be a great time to upsize. That’s because while you have to sell your old home for a certain percentage less, you get to buy your new home for a similar discount. That can lead to an overall ‘profit’, because the dollar saving on buying a dearer larger home is often greater than the dollar loss on selling a cheaper smaller home.

Sellers

If you don’t need to sell, now may not be the best time; instead, it may be better to wait until prices are rising again.

If you do need to sell, it’s vital you price your home accurately. In December, the number of old listings (those that had been on the market for more than 180 days) was 14.3% higher than the year before. Why? Well, according to SQM: "As there remains more sellers than buyers, dwellings on the market that are not priced to market, don’t sell."

Finance

As interest rates have been rising, the average person’s borrowing capacity has been falling. My strong advice is to contact me before you begin your property search, so I can test your borrowing capacity at different lenders (it varies from bank to bank) and organise a pre-approval for you. That way, you will know your budget before you start making offers.

If you’re moving home and want to buy before you sell, a bridging loan may be right for you.

Lynette Melis Finance Broker/Franchisee LoanMarket Kyabram

CHARITY CAR SHOW

On Saturday 18 March Cam of Hussln Auto Detailing will celebrate 13 years in business. The milestone will be marked by what has become an Annual Charity Car Show and Open Day.

Cam says that Hogan Street will be closed to through traffic from Ross Street to Francis Street to make room for up to 120 cars to be displayed. They will be vying for custom painted skateboard trophies.

There will be a charity raffle with over $3,500 worth of prizes donated by local and national businesses. Raffle tickets are $5 or 3 for $10 and prizes will be drawn on the day.

Tatura Lions Club will be there with bacon & egg rolls, Fast Brew Coffee will be onsite along with a Shannons Insurance display and a display by 7 Sins apparel.

Come down to see great cars, help Cam celebrate his 13th anniversary and support charity at the same time.

Tatura Uniting Church

“Olive & Vine”

115 Hogan Street, Tatura

Minister: Brian Spencer 0400 274 482

Service 9.30am every Sunday.

March 5 Rev B Spencer, Communion Murchison zoom

March 12 Joan McRae TBC Colbinabbin Brian on leave

March 19 Gereldine Leanard Tatura Brian on leave

March 26 Rushworth Communion Brian on leave

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

All Saints Tatura

Anglican Church

Minister: Rev. Simba Musvamhiri

Family Worship Service

Including Little Saints Children’s Program Sundays at 9.30am

Contact 0497 597 127 www.allsaintstatura.org.au

Generations Church Tatura

Senior Pastor: Ps Jeremy Burr 10am Service 03 58243240 295 Dhurringile Rd www.generations.org.au

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

You’ll figure it out

I borrowed a tractor from a neighbour. He told me where to find the key and in reply to my question asking was there anything I needed to know about operating it, he simply said, “You’ll figure it out!”

I grew up on a farm so I’ve been driving tractors since I was a child, but the tractors of my childhood were a lot more basic than the one I borrowed from my neighbour.

I’ve got a couple of older tractors myself too, but the tractor my neighbour lent me was new. It has air-conditioning, a radio, a front-end loader and a lot more lights and levers than I’m used to seeing on tractors.

I also borrowed an implement to attach to the borrowed tractor from another neighbour. Again, apart from being told to regularly grease the many bearings and couplings, when I asked about the various settings that control depth and speed, I was simply told, “You’ll figure it out!”

I am very grateful for the generosity of my neighbours. While I appreciate their confidence in my ability to problem solve and overcome challenges, a large part of me would have liked more specific instructions. At the same time, I’m glad they didn’t give me what I would have liked, that is, more specific instructions, because I am the better for having to “figure it out” for myself.

One of the strengths I’ve been told I possess is a high “tolerance of ambiguity”. “Tolerance of ambiguity” refers to a person's ability to accept uncertainty, complexity, and unpredictability in situations without experiencing excessive stress or discomfort. It is also having the willingness and ability to deal with multiple perspectives, change, and conflicting information in a constructive way.

Individuals with a high “tolerance of ambiguity” tend to be more flexible, adaptable, and open-minded. They are more able to handle situations that are uncertain or rapidly changing. They are also less likely to become frustrated or overwhelmed in situations where the available information or the expected outcome(s) are not clear.

So much of my life is ambiguous! I suppose that’s true for most of us. Life doesn’t come with a Users’ Manual. For example, most of us feel unprepared for marriage and parenthood. Many of us, when taking on new jobs or roles in the community, suffer from “Imposter Syndrome”, the feeling that we will be caught out as frauds, as people who do not know what they are doing.

It is easy to doubt yourself. It is encouraging when others believe in us. Jesus had more confidence in his disciples than they had in themselves. When the time came for Jesus to leave the disciples, they were not ready for the responsibility Jesus gave them. They didn’t know enough, they weren’t reliable or resilient enough and they lacked courage. In many ways the disciples were immature and were not ready. They often bickered over available roles and about their status. Yet Jesus as he prepares to leave them basically says, “Don’t worry, you’ll figure it out.”

Time and again he tells them not to worry, inferring “You’ll figure it out.” “…, do not worry about how you are to defend yourselves or what you are to say; for the Holy Spirit will teach you at that very hour what you ought to say.” (Luke 12: 11-12, NRSV)

“I still have many things to say to you, but you cannot bear them now. When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth; for he will not speak on his own, but will speak whatever he hears, and he will declare to you the things that are to come.” (John 16: 12-13 NRSV,)

“You’ll figure it out.” With the help of the Holy Spirit, the disciples will figure it out. Jesus believes in their ability to solve problems or overcome the challenges ahead. And despite how much they didn’t understand what Jesus said to them while he was alive, they did figure it out. Well, they figured out enough anyway. Thanks be to God!

The future is never quite what we predict it will be; not in our personal lives and careers, in our community life or in our churches. Likewise, we often don’t feel up to the challenge, but with God’s grace and the spirit of Jesus I believe we can figure it out.

This is the gospel and it’s good news.

Brian Spencer, Minister, Tatura Uniting Church

1c – Rabbits

2a – Andromedaz

3c – Rings Bells

4a – Zagreb

5a – 1970

6d – 4 years

7c – Komodo Dragon

8a – Cows

9c – Portuguese

10b – The constitution

Scoring.

0–2. Struggle Street. Watching reality TV and texting your friends on the phone has some benefits but gaining general knowledge isn’t one of them.

3-5. Bland Street. There’s nothing wrong with being averagely bland. Most people fall into this category which also includes mediocre, dull, drab, dreary, ordinary, run-of–the mill, middling, commonplace ….

6-7. Above Average (sort of). As my mum used to say, “Good, better, best, never let it rest, until your good is better and your better best.” It’s now time to become a smarty pants. As you know quite well, we always need more smarty pants.

8-9. Smarty Pants. Congratulations! How does it feel to be in the top 5% of the population? Although there is no evidence to back up this claim, I’m sure you’ll agree that it feels right.

10. Genius. I should make a special pin for people like you to wear so that the struggling underclass of wannabe intellectuals can gaze upon you with fawning admiration. Without a pin, how can people truly appreciate your cleverness. I suppose you’ll just have to tell them.

QUIZ answers

DINKUM! FAIR DINKUM! FAIR

Dennis Booth's

Fair Dinkum! Are we the lucky country or not?

In the 1960’s acclaimed author Donald Horne described Australia as the lucky country, but he did it very much tongue in cheek rather suggesting were we in fact the/a lucky country.

Well since those days, the term has been used a fair bit, particularly by politicians and media journalists.

However, I cannot help but see that we are indeed a lucky country and never more so than in the last twelve months.

Now that may seem strange considering that we have had a drought many have said is the worst this country has seen, we have seen terrible bushfires ravage our country and leave untold misery as a result, and now we have the Corona Virus halting life as we once knew it.

So how can we say we are a lucky country?

Well, suddenly rain began to come when least expected and that has been followed up by some wonderful sustaining rain to fill dams, create sub-soil moisture so that crops can be sown.

Even the once dead Darling River is flowing again!

And the rain has put an end to possible continuing bushfires.

Yet there is still so much misery so again, why are we a lucky country? Because we have men and women who have a spirit within them that makes us so proud of who we are.

I am talking about the SES, Rural Fire Brigades…all of those who went day through night to help keep bushfires under control and who did so with some losing their own homes, and so many putting themselves in

I am talking about the convoy truckies who day through night and drove countless kilometres to take hay bales to farmers really struggling.

I am talking about the unsung, unseen heroes who went out of their way to drive to properties doing it tough with supplies of food and needed

Tatura Primary School promotes leadership development in all its young people. Our 2023 badge presentation ceremony was attended by many proud parents and family members. We look forward to the positive contribution our leaders will make as School Captains, House Captains, Envirokids and Junior School Council members.

- Susanne Gill, Principal

And now we have the virus and we are seeing Australians learn to turn their business into helping others.

And now we are seeing health professionals and those who work daily in our hospitals putting themselves at risk because it is their job and the same can be said for those at airports, particularly those processing incoming passengers from overseas.

We are seeing what friendship, mateship and dedication is all about on

Yes, we are a lucky country in the true sense.

Finally let’s all still remember those who have gone in the drought, the bushfires and this virus.

Surely remembering makes us want to ensure they are not forgotten by doing what we can to keep Australia the lucky country.

Geoff Gerrish TREE STUMP REMOVALS

March 1 – World Compliment Day. The idea behind this day is to make it the most positive day of the year and was created to spread happiness and increase productivity. It mentions using small gifts to show your appreciation to family, friends, and co-workers. It also suggests complimenting everybody you meet, which I feel is counter-productive because you know the compliment is meaningless. It’s a bit like shop assistants telling you to have a nice day. They’re just empty words.

March 2 – International Old Stuff Day. People often see old things as something to be replaced by newer, shinier things but many old items gain value as they age. Antiques are at least 100 years old, while vintage items are at least 30 years old. Even more valuable is the wisdom and knowledge we can get from old people if you just take the time to step away from your Ipad and talk to them. It is said that wisdom was replaced by knowledge and knowledge has now been replaced by information. On this day, take a moment to listen to the old folks around you but whatever you do, don’t ask about their medical conditions.

March 3 – Dress in Blue Day. Caught early enough, colon cancer can be successfully treated. Dress in Blue Day is to raise awareness of the potentially fatal threat of colon cancer and hopefully encourage people to be screened for it, thereby reducing the number of fatalities. If you (no point looking around, I’m talking to you) haven’t been screened recently then stop reading this and go and make an appointment with your doctor. It could save your life.

March 4 – World Grammar Day. Thank heavens! A worthwhile day at last. So where to start? Perhaps with the sports commentators who have never heard of adverbs and choose to use adjectives in their place or texting teens who have completely mutilated the English language in a bid to send messages more quickly and cheaply. (Please note the use of adverbs in that sentence which is something you’ll rarely experience while listening to the football or cricket.)

March 5 – World Namesake Day. Do you know who you were named after? There is a long tradition of naming people after other people, most often our parents or grandparents, or perhaps famous people for whom your parents held in high regard. Unfortunately, many celebrities, who seem to come from the shallow end of the gene pool, struggle with this simple tradition and end up calling their children Pheart (sound that one out), Meta 4 or Y. Indeed, we do ask why? The longest name in the world belongs to American, Hubert Blaine Wolfeschlegelsteinhausenbergerdo rff Sr. Try fitting that on your driver’s licence.

March 7 – Alexander Graham Bell Day. On March 7, 1876, Alexander Graham Bell was granted a patent for ‘transmitting vocal or other sounds telegraphically.’ Three days later, Bell uttered the famous words, "Mr Watson, come here, I want to see you," into a transmitter. His assistant, Thomas Watson, who was in the next room, heard the words clearly and thus, the first telephone was created. Almost immediately after, Watson received a call asking him if he wanted to install solar panels on his roof.

March 8 – International Women’s Day. This day celebrates the social, economic, cultural, and political achievement of women. Unfortunately, in many countries, cultures and religions, women are still treated as second-class citizens, or worse, as chattels belonging to men. We’ve come a long way but there is still a long way to go, just look at Afghanistan and Iran.

March 10 – Mario Day. This day was chosen because Mar10 looks like Mario. Since his first appearance in the 1981 Nintendo game, Donkey Kong as Jumpman, Mario has featured in over 200 video games, several television shows, and comics. If you’ve never played a Mario game, then you need to put it on your bucket list.

March 14 – Pi Day. No, it’s not a typo so don’t get excited and go rushing off to the bakery. Pi (π) is the most recognizable mathematical constant in the world and is the ratio of any circle’s circumference to its diameter.

Its value is approximately equal to 3.14159265. It is an irrational number, which means it cannot be expressed as a ratio of whole numbers, and its decimal representation never ends or repeats. How exciting is that?

March 17 – St. Patrick’s Day. The day commemorates Saint Patrick and the arrival of Christianity in Ireland and celebrates the heritage and culture of the Irish in general with parades, drinking, dancing, drinking, special foods, drinking and a whole lot of green. Did I mention drinking?

March 20 – International Day of Happiness. Really? We need a day to remind us to be happy? Happiness should be so common that we should have a National Day of Unhappiness just to remind us that it shouldn’t be taken for granted. Remember that happiness is an attitude, and the choice is yours. Step one on the path to happiness is easy, just avoid negative people.

March 21 – World Poetry Day. Poetry reaffirms our common humanity by revealing to us that individuals, everywhere in the world, share the same questions and feelings and are also capable of writing verse that is completely incomprehensible to the average man or woman in the street. If you have a poem, send it in to the Bulletin and if it is not too long and we can understand most of it, we may publish it. No promises though, and to the fellow who keeps sending in multiple pages of his poetic communications with the spirit world, the answer’s still the same.

March 22 – World Water Day. As with so many things in Australia, we take the availability of reliable, fresh water and effective sanitation for granted. Water is also vital for creating jobs and supporting economic, social, and human development. One of the major issues facing us in the future will be providing sufficient water for our growing population. Perhaps it’s time to bite the bullet and build another dam, especially after all this rain.

March 26 – Spinach Day. Green spinach is full of nutrition, including iron, vitamin A and calcium, and is renowned for being a healthy a part of a well-balanced diet, but do we eat enough? I’ll answer that on behalf of 98% of the population, no. So how about learning from Popeye and including more spinach in your diet. Your body will thank you.

March 29 – Smoke and Mirrors Day. This is all about deception, illusion, and magic tricks. There are plenty of easy card tricks you can learn to amaze your friends and children. Smoking while you do this is not an option.

March 30 – Doctor’s Day. It’s easy to forget just how important, valuable, and necessary good doctors are, that is, until you get ill or sustain an injury. Doctor’s Day puts hard working doctors in the spotlight and encourages us to be considerate of the long hours they work, their compassion, and the effort they put into practicing medicine.

- John Kriesfeld

Kids Page

? ? ?

Can you work out what each of the three animals weigh? Then add the three weights together to get the total weight + = 5kg - = 99kg + + =12kg

(Hint: Think about the Rabbits first in the 3rd line.)

Rabbit Jokes

Q: How do rabbits travel?

A: By hareplane.

Q: What is a bunny's motto?

A: Don't be mad, be hoppy!

Q : What do you call a transformer bunny?

A: Hop - timus Prim e.

Q: What do you call a very rich bunny?

A: A billion - hare.

Q: How do you know carrots are good for your eyes?

A: Because you never see a rabbit wearing glasses!

Q: What is a rabbit's favourite dance style?

A: Hip-Hop!

Q: What’s the difference between a healthy bunn y and a clown bunny?

A: One is a fit bunn y , and the other one is , a bit funny !

The Year of the Rabbit 2023

According to Chinese Astrology, the Rabbit symbolizes beauty, patience, and luck. The Rabbit is the luckiest out of all the twelve animals. People who are born in the Year of the Rabbit are calm and peaceful.

‘These Two Rabbits’ – Author Unknown

These two rabbits, Have ears so tall These two rabbits, Have eyes so small.

These two rabbits, Have whiskers that wiggle.

These two rabbits, Have noses that wriggle.

It’s been a whole three weeks since we returned from our ‘trip abroad’ as Agnes keeps calling it.

I ate too much, talked too much and possibly drank a little too much. Not that I am much of a drinker normally, but they were very tasty and fairly priced. It was all too easy to fall into the habit of grabbing another little refreshing drink at the bar while sitting around in a leisurely manner. Now I know how royalty feels. Garry keeps telling me he will take me out for dinner one evening and we can see if they serve those same nice refreshing drinks that I like. I cannot imagine why he thinks that is of any interest to me. Reflecting back, the trip was not completely awful. In fact, some parts were quite nice. Agnes, Fred and Garry believe it was marvellous, to use their own words.

“We should do it again Merle,” Agnes said to me, which brought me out of my thoughts.

“Do what Agnes?” I asked.

“Another cruise, Merle. You know we all had so much fun,” she replied excitedly.

“Once is more than enough thank you Agnes, let’s just focus on the shopping instead,” I said a little irritably. Our plan had been to head off to the shops but she was taking such a long time to get ready. “Agnes, are you ever going to be ready?” I asked in a pointed tone that suggested she should get hopping.

“They went out yesterday,” she replied, looking somewhat surprised.

“What went out yesterday, Agnes?”

“The bins. You asked about the bins, didn’t you?”

“Oh, good heavens Agnes. I asked if you were ready to go shopping, nothing about the silly bins. What’s happening to your hearing lately?”

Agnes nodded. “Yes, I must say I have been misinterpreting a lot of things lately. I think my batteries might be going flat in my hearing aids. Either that or its time for some new ones.”

“Well let’s get going before the jolly shops shut shall we,” I said as I took her by the arm.

“Yes, yes alright don’t get your nickers in a knot Merle, I’m coming.” I must say I have never heard Agnes say that before and what a peculiar saying anyway. I let it slide so we could get some shopping time in, plus goodness know what she would make of my reply anyway.

We eventually arrived at the shopping centre and Agnes soon found a shop that piqued her interest.

“Oh, let’s go into this one Merle, everything is half price. Fifty percent off everything storewide.

“Indeed, let’s go in there Agnes,” I replied. “Surely they will have something we need.”

We wondered around picking things up here and there and making satisfied noises about the price, now that it was half the original price. For some strange reason, everything is far more appealing when it is cheaper. I was interested in some items near the counter while Agnes wondered off vaguely towards the back of the shop. I heard a young lady go up to the counter and ask the shop assistant if the quilt was half price.

“Oh yes,” she politely replied. “Everything is half price.”

“Oh cool,” the young lady replied excitedly. “So, what about those towels then?”

“Yep, half price too. The sale is storewide,” the shop assistant replied, not quite as politely and with a slightly quizzical look on her face.

How odd I thought to myself, how odd. What can be so difficult about understanding half price storewide? Apparently, it is difficult because only a moment later another older woman went up to the counter and asked if the lamps were also on special.

This time the shop assistant smiled through gritted teeth as she replied, “Yes, everything storewide is half price, everything.”

I was so amused by all of this that I kept looking at all of the items near the counter so I could hear customer after customer ask the same sort of questions.

Once or twice the shop assistant looked up at me with a rather pleading look, hoping perhaps that I might be able to tell her how she might get the message across to all the shoppers that storewide and everything, meant just that. I really had to giggle to myself. I was fascinated and very invested in the whole deal, when another customer came up and said to the shop assistant and said in a rather cross voice, “Isn’t this shirt supposed to be cotton?”

“Yes, it is a cotton shirt, you are right.” Once again, the polite shop assistant did her best to say pleasant.

“Well, why does the tag say one hundred percent recycled plastic then?” huffed the customer as she brandished the shirt in the shop assistant’s face. The shop assistant stepped back and replied in a rather haughty voice. “I believe that is saying that the tag is made from recycled plastic, not the shirt.” I couldn’t help myself. I giggled out loud and hurried off towards Agnes who was slowly making her way back towards me. I simply had to let her know the amusing show that was going on up at the front counter, which I found far more interesting than anything on sale.

“Oh, Agnes, let me tell you about what’s going on at the front counter, it’s an absolute hoot.”

Agnes pushed past me and said, “Tell me about it in a minute Merle. I just need to find out if this coat is half price, because if it is, I am definitely getting it.”

I was gobsmacked. “Don’t you dare ask that question,” I yelled, giving Agnes quite a start.

“Why are you yelling at me Merle?’” replied Agnes, looking quite surprised. “Did you want the jacket? They have more than one you know. But let’s at least find out if they are on sale first.”

I planted myself in front of her and spoke quite slowly, as if to a child. “I don’t care how many coats they have Agnes, everything in this store is half price. Storewide. The entire store. Everything in it. How much clearer can it be?”

“Well, there is no need to be grumpy Merle. I mean I was just going to ask.” I shook my head emphatically. “Well, you must not. You’re an intelligent person Agnes. How on earth can you misconstrue what the sale means?”

“Fine,” replied Agnes as she handed me the coat. “Why don’t you go and ask and I will go and look at what else is down the back. There could be loads more bargains and some of them could be half price.”

Agnes toddled off towards the back of the shop and I was left standing with my mouth agape.

My poor friend Agnes, I never knew she could be so vague. Turning deaf and now becoming woolly minded. I can see I am going to have to carry even more of this friendship moving forward.

The whole shopping experience, while amusing, was also a little confusing. What has happened to people? How can it be difficult to understand that the sale applied to everything storewide? Can someone please explain? Anyone?

TATURA CUBBY NEWS

We wish all our Cubby families and the Tatura Community a Happy New Year.

And what an exciting new year it will be! After a year of preparation, our childcare centre will extend its hours to respond to the growing need for childcare in our town.

Our new opening hours are:

Tuesday 8:30am to 4:00pm

Wednesday 8:30am to 4:00pm

Thursday 8:30am to 4:00pm

Friday 8:30am to 4:00pm

Fees are $105 per day. Parents can and should apply for Childcare Subsidy (CCS) with Centrelink to reduce the amount of money they pay out of pocket.

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 bigger Cubby family. We are here to support our parents above the regular services of childcare centres. We can help you with your CCS application, connect you to support services or just have an open ear for the days where it all seems a bit much.

We have only a few spots left but created a waiting list for this term’s applications for enrolment. Give us a call to inquire about vacancies, have a chat and book a time to get to know The Cubby and our staff.

At the end of last year, we said goodbye to our beautiful childcare workers Karen and Janenne who have been with us for many years. Thank you for your commitment and for caring for so many children over the years. We will miss you! Karen and Janenne might step in as relievers from time to time, we’re looking forward to catching up with them then.

Our Cubby will be staffed with three educators. Tarja, our childcare coordinator, will continue to do a fantastic job with her caring attitude and her sense of humour. She will be supported by Lucy who has worked in childcare for over 13 years. Heather, who just completed her Diploma successfully, will join them on Tuesdays and Wednesdays and our new staff member Katy will join them on Thursdays and Fridays. Our second new staff member Emma will complete the team and be there as a lunchtime reliever every day from Tuesday to Friday. Thank you to all our staff members, old and new, for making more childcare possible!

The Cubby Occasional Care 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.

- Tom Boocock and Nadine Pichler

DHURRINGILE PRIMARY SCHOOL

This year has started fantastically for us.

We have had a 50% increase in our student population and have a new staff member. We warmly welcome all of our new members of the Dhurringile family. Ms Cook is our new Mental Health and Wellbeing leader as well as sharing the teaching with Mrs N. Each morning before school, our students get to choose several different play items that they would like in our play stations in the undercover area. Students are able to use the stations in their break times. Mindful colouring, kinetic sand and domino track building have been the favourites in the past two weeks.

Our Italian teacher is not available this year to offer virtual lessons, so we have decided to change to Auslan and have joined with Harston school to share their new teacher. We are going to have a fortnight rotation of face to face and virtual lessons. Our students have already had one lesson at Harston which they loved. Getting to renew friendships with the Harston students over recess, was ‘the icing on the cake’. Our teachers are also learning Auslan alongside the students, so it will be interesting to see who is able to incorporate Auslan into classroom discussions quicker.

During the holidays, further progress has been made to our outdoor learning area and kitchen garden. The shade sail is now installed for the learning area. The ground through the learning area and garden has been scraped and levelled, then mulched to incorporate the 2 areas. The raised garden beds have been put into place, ready to be filled and then planted. Our old hot house has been moved into the kitchen garden area and will look fantastic when it gets new shade cloth.

At the end of 2022, we found out that we had received an Active Schools grant to install a bike path and sensory play area. Throughout 2023, we will construct the path and a new sensory area. The students have been discussing with Ms Cook some of the things that they would like to have in the sensory area. Once available, the bike path and sensory play area will be open for the community as well as for the Dhurringile students.

Enrolments for 2024 will open in term 2 2023, as per a new Department of Education state-wide Foundation (prep) enrolment timeline. If you have a Foundation student for 2024 or 2025, I would love to show you around Dhurringile Primary School. Our school is open for all primary students, not just those who live in our designated zone. Give me a call on 58266222 or 0418 383 064 to find out further information or to arrange a visit.

Lisa Wilson Principal @ Dhurringile Primary School

The year is off to a flying start at Sacred Heart with everyone returning back to school full of energy and enthusiasm. Staff spent lots of time ensuring the learning spaces were inviting and everyone felt safe and welcomed, ready for the exciting year ahead.

I would like to extend a warm welcome to our many new students and families. I know they will quickly feel part of our beautiful school community. We also welcome new staff, Brooke Cimera, Kathryn Reid, Sonia Lagozzinno and Lily Vincitorio who are very much looking forward to being part of the Sacred Heart community.

Year 6 were commissioned as 2023 School Leaders and presented with their Leadership shirts. These leaders have already begun this very important role in the true spirit of Sacred Heart, leading Assemblies, working with their Leadership teams and of course the important task of being buddies to our new Foundation students.

It was lovely to see so many of our families come along and enjoy our Welcome Evening. It was a great opportunity for old and new families to get together. We also gathered at our Opening School Mass, asking for God’s blessings for the year ahead.

Our new building is close to completion and we are very much looking forward to moving into the exciting new environment in the coming weeks.

We look forward to all the new adventures that will unfold at Sacred Heart throughout the coming year as we work and learn together.

Pauline Hindson Sacred Heart Primary Principal

MAD GIRLS

We are MAD – Making a Difference for others affected by breast cancer and proud of it!

The Murchison Pink Morning Tea is now back in 2023! This is a fundraising event that raises money for the GV Breast Cancer Support group.

Organiser, Sharon Reilly, explained that COVID has taken its toll on organizing and running the event like so many other events. But with new energy and positivity, we are now back in 2023.

The date to mark down now is Saturday October 7. Tickets are limited and available as a table or individually. Tickets go on sale from August, but don’t be scared to flag your interest now by contacting Sharon on 0438 262 172.

The morning tea includes games, raffles, a guest speaker, and lots of great food. So, mark the date now – Saturday October 7. Come along and be part of local women supporting others to be MAD - Making A Difference.

- Jenny Lister

COUNTRIES OF THE WORLD WORD SEARCH

Find and circle all of the hidden words about countries The left over letters reveal a secret message.

HUNGARY PAPUA NEW GUINEA ARGENTINA INDIA PERU BAHRAIN IRAN PHILIPPINES BELGIUM IRELAND POLAND

BENIN ITALY PORTUGAL

BHUTAN KAZAKHSTAN QATAR

CAMEROON KENYA RUSSIA

CANADA LAOS RWANDA

CHAD LATVIA SAN MARINO

CHINA LIECHTENSTEIN SURINAME

CROATIA LITHUANIA SPAIN

CUBA MALI SWEDEN

FIJI MONTENEGRO TAIWAN

FINLAND NEPAL TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO

GABON NEW ZEALAND TURKEY

GHANA NORWAY UKRAINE

GUYANA OMAN URUGUAY

HAITI PALAU YEMEN

SUDOKU No. 79

IDW THANKS

To all the 200 plus volunteers who assisted with 2023 International Dairy Week, the Tatura Football Netball Club and the IDW subcommittee would like to thank you all very much.

Numbers of exhibitors and stock were up significantly from last year when Covid was at its peak. The introduction of the Food Truck night on the Saturday was received very well by the town and surrounding area with many families venturing to the main oval for the festivities even though the temperature at the commencement was around 40 degrees. Congratulations must go to IDW and COGS for setting up the evening as it provided a night of fun and gave an insight to what IDW is all about.

Several new volunteers came into the fold, and all indicated they had a great (if not busy) time and are all keen to go again next year.

I would like to give special mention to all the team leaders who arranged rosters and coordinated the various section. They include Mignon Campbell (sandwiches/rolls), Catherine Brooks (bars), John Maher/Daryl Wilson (gates), John Maher (dishwashers), Jack Lowe/Bill Ballantyne (breakfasts), Gaye Eaton (overall catering) and Carol Coulston (bookkeeping).

The future of the event looks bright as the new owners Declan and Brad, and the Event Coordinator Stacey, are keen to keep trying new things such as the food trucks and the Trade show. So, let’s all have a rest and get ready for 2024.

Once again, thank you all very much.

TATURA LIONS CLUB

Zone chairman Keith Bryant recently presented awards to Alana Bryant for 16 years of service and to President Helen Hoskin, representing the Tatura Lions Club, for the services the club provided to residents during the recent floods.

Daryl Eaton

TFNC IDW Coordinator

HARSTON PRIMARY SCHOOL

Harston PS has hit the ground running.

We would like to welcome Carli Bugler & Bethany Mckinnell to the team at Harston. Everyone has settled in beautifully. We have already made zucchini muffins using ingredients from our school garden. We were meeting with Merrigum to meet ‘Healthy Harold’ next week, but this has been postponed. The students have already participated in MAAC & MARC enjoying Art & Library. Our Auslan has kicked off with bang and the students are loving it. Dhurringile Primary School will be joining us on this adventure. The students are learning to play the ukulele and had a very exciting first lesson this week.

Our first school council meeting is the 20th of February. Please consider coming along and being part of the Harston team. 2 meetings a term during the day on a Monday or a Tuesday around 1 pm at the school. Specialists at Harston

• Art odd weeks on Friday -with Ms Cowan.

• Library even weeks on Tuesday -with Ms Smith.

• Music/Creative Arts & EQ - Every Tuesday morning with Mrs Sibio.

• Science with the Discovery Centre – Thursdays.

• PE -TBA

• Auslan – Fridays with Ms Mckinnell

Keith and Helen

Keith and Alana