This event supports the Tatura Hospital and Parkvilla Nursing Home.
SOUNDS OF NATURE
Thursday 8 February 12.30pm
Tatura Library
Andrew Skeoch, Guest Speaker
PANCAKE MORNING TEA
Shrove Tuesday
13 February 10.00am
Olive & Vine 115 Hogan St, Tatura
$10 entry
Tea/Coffee & Pancakes
All Welcome
TAT FEST
Sunday 3 March
10am – 4.30pm
Mactier Gardens, Tatura
INTERNATIONAL
WOMEN’S DAY BREAKFAST
Friday 8 March
7:30 to 9:30am
Hilltop Golf & Country Club
$30 including breakfast. Bookings are essential.
to the Sec. 0428 266 356
SOME JOKES ABOUT HATS
Why are hat jokes the hardest to understand? Because they always go right over your head.
I just bought a new cap with a built-in fan that keeps my head cool during hot weather. It really blows my mind.
What does a hat salesman drink to get him going in the morning? A cappuccino.
What did the hat say to the tie? You hang around and I'll go a-head.
Did you know you can wear any boat as a hat? You just have to turn it upside down to make it cap sized.
What do you call a turtle in a chef's hat? A slow cooker.
What do we call a car that wears a hat? A hat-chback.
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 MENS SHED
ARDMONA PRIMARY SCHOOL
Care Educator Position
Ardmona Primary School have a vacancy for an outside school hours care educator. The position will cover the hours 7.30am until 9.00am morning, and 3.00pm until 6,00pm daily. All applicants must have an ACECQA recognised qualification or are working towards or are willing to undertake studies.
If you are ambitious and keen to engage with children in running programs and activities in education, this position may suit you. Why wait?
All resumes can be sent via ardmona.ps@education.vic.gov.au, and marked ‘Attention Principal’. Applications close January 26th.
- Jean Varty, Principal
s s S t C a f e | F o o d a n d d r i n k s a t o w n c o s t M e e t n e w p e o p l e a n d m a k e n e w f r i e n d s n T a t u r a C o m e a l o n g a n d s h a r e m o r n n g t e a o n t h e f i r s t W e d n e s d a y o f t h e m o n t h T h u r s d a y B r i d g e T h u r s d a y s | 1 : 0 03 : 0 0 p m | F R E E B e g n n e r s w e l c o m e C o m e a l o n g a n d h a v e a g o w e w i l t e a c h y o u h o w t o p l a y I t s l o t s o f f u n ! K n i t t i n g , S e w i n g & C r o c h e t T u e s d a y s | 9 : 0 0 a m1 : 0 0 p m | $ 3 s e s s i o n C o m e a l o n g a n d l e a r n h o w t o c r o c h e t k n i t o r s e w S p i n n i n g , W e a v i n g a n d F i b r e A r t s T u e s d a y s | 1 : 0 03 : 0 0 p m | $ 2 s e s s i o n A s p a c e f o r s p i n n i n g w e a v n g a n d o t h e r f b r e r e l a t e d c r a f t s C o m e a n d j o i n t h i s g r o u p t o l e a r n a n d e x c h a n g e e x p e r e n c e s L E G O C l u b F r i d a y s @ T h e L i b r a r y | S t a r t i n g 9 t h F e b 3 : 4 54 : 4 5 p m | G o l d C o i n D o n a t i o n T h e L E G O C l u b s a c r e a t i v e h u b w h e r e b u i l d e r s o f a l a g e s g a t h e r t o e x p l o r e t h e m e d b u i d c h a l l e n g e s , s h a r e t h e i r c r e a t i o n s I t ' s a s u p p o r t v e c o m m u n i t y f o s t e r i n g f r i e n d s h i p a n d c o l l a b o r a t i o n o p e n t o b o t h s e a s o n e d b u l d e r s a n d n e w c o m e r s J o i n u s f o r a w o r l d o f i m a g n a t i v e f u n w h e r e e v e r y b r c k t e l s a u n q u e s t o r y !
J o n t h i s f r e n d l y g r o u p a n d h e l p u s r e u s e a n d r e p u r p o s e f a b r i c A j o b f o r e v e r y o n en o s k i l s n e c e s s a r y ! C h o p & C h a tF R E E ! T u e s d a y s 1 2 t h & 2 6 t h M a r c h | 1 0 : 0 0 a m1 : 0 0 p m | F R E E C o m e a n d h e p u s p r o c e s s f r u i t a n d v e g e t a b l e s t o m a k e y u m m y a m s , s a u c e s , c h u t n e y s & p i c k l e s a n d c o o k f r o z e n m e a s f o r t h e c o m m u n t y W o m e n ' s H e a l t h C l i n i c T u e s d a y s | 6 t h F e b & 5 t h M a r | 1 0 : 0 0 a m2 : 0 0 p m A c o n f i d e n t a h e a l t h s e r v i c e f o r w o m e n & L G B T I Q A + p e o p l e o f a l a g e s T h e c l i n i c w i l p r o v i d e n f o r m a t i o n s u p p o r t c l i n i c a l s e r v c e s a n d a p p r o p r i a t e s p e c a i s t r e f e r r a s e r v i c e s n a n i n f o r m a l a n d r e l a x e d e n v i r o n m e n t B o o k n g s r e q u i r e d 5 8 2 4 1 3 1 5 N e w D a y ! N e w T r a i n e r ! R E C Y C L
S o c i a l G r o u p s & A free health service for
d o c u m e n t w i t n e s s e d ? W e h a v e a J u s t c e o f t h e P e a c e o ns i t e e v e r y M o n d a y m o r n i n g G i v e u s a c a l t o b o o k B o o m e r a n g B a g sF R E E ! T h u r s d a y s | 9 : 1 5 a m1 2 : 0 0 p m | F R E E
J u s t i c e o f t h e P e a c e M o n d a y s |
u p
T a u r a C o m m u n t y H o u s e a r e p r o u d m e m b e r s o f T a t u r a C o m m u n t y H o u s e s o c a t e d o n h e l a n d s o t h e Y o r a Y o r t a p e o p e a n d w e a c k n o w e d g e t h e m a s T r a d i i o n a O w n e r s W e a s o p a y o u r r e s p e c t s t o h e r E d e r s p a s t a n d p r e s e n t a n d A b o r i g n a l E d e r s o f o h e r c o m m u n i e s S k i l l s a n d T r a i n i n g T E R M 1 | 2 9 J A N U A R Y2 8 M A R C H
n g i s h S e c o n d a r y S t u d e n t s 4 : 3 05 : 3 0 p m | F R E E ! C o m e a o n g a n d f i n i s h y o u r h o m e w o r k i n a g r o u p e n v r o n m e n t Q u a l i f i e d t e a c h e r s a r e o ns i t e t o a s s s t y o u C H I L D C A R E C E N T R E T A T U R A C O M M U N I T Y C U B B Y H O U S E
D A R T W O R K S
A R T W O R K S H O P ! R E C Y E D R T W O R K S H P ! W I T H R Y A N & K E L L Y W I T H R Y A N & K E L L Y W I T H & K L Y C r e a t e y o u r p e r s o n a l m a s t e r p i e c e ! B r i n g f i v e r a n d o m o b j e c t s f r o m h o m e a n d e t R y a n a n d K e l y a s s i s t y o u n c r e a t i n g a n a m a z i n g p i e c e o f a r t F o o d P a n t r yF R E E ! I f y o u o r s o m e o n e y o u k n o w n e e d s s o m
! R E C Y C L E
H e a l t h a n d W e l l b e i n g 1 21 6 C a s e y S t T a
CUBBY NEWS
We wish all our Cubby families and the Tatura Community a Happy New Year.
We look forward to welcoming back our existing families and getting to know our new children and their families. 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. 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.
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.
Our Cubby is staffed with five regular 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 14 years. Tarja and Lucy care for your children at The Cubby on all four days that we operate (Tuesday to Friday 8:30am to 4:00pm). Barbara, Emma and Katy will fill the role for the third educator throughout the week. Thank you to all our staff members for making it possible for us to provide this service to the community. Thank you for being flexible, reliable and motivated to be your best. Also, many thanks to our relievers for being available on short notice. You’re all stars!
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.
TAT FEST
The Lions Club of Tatura will be holding their annual “Tat Fest” on Sunday 3rd March 2024 at Mactier Gardens in Tatura. Running from 10.00am to 4.30pm there will be lots of entertainment for young and old including a Jumping castle, Slot Cars, Face Painting, Zorb Balls, Train rides, Fairy Floss, CFA and Ambulance activities.
There will be music for everyone and a School Art Competition.
Food Stalls and Variety Stalls include an Ice Cream van, Coffee Van and the Lions BIG BBQ.
Secured area for the kids so parents can relax in the shade of the trees.
Sorry – No Dogs allowed.
Hope to see everyone there for a great day out.
the Stock & Land Beef Week
1st February 2024. 9.00am to 4.30pm.
1345 Toolamba-Rushworth Rd, Tatura.
Bulls and Heifers available.
* Stud registered and Commercial. PIC no. 3SPEU122.
FB Mystical Murray Greys, for info
UNIVERSITY OF THE THIRD AGE
My husband and I have been members of the above group for some years, but I have been surprised of how few people in Tatura seem aware of the University of the Third Age (U3A).
Like-minded members from all walks of life are encouraged to participate in groups and share their knowledge with fellow members on a low-key basis. All groups are led on a voluntary basis. There are no assessments. The following activities are available at GVU3A. While many activities take place at the centre at 14 Esson Street, Shepparton, other activities involve travelling out and about. Activities are held each weekday.
Courses on Offer
• Art Group
• Creative Craft
• Scribblers
• Around the World Foodies Group
• Historical Studies
• Socrates
• Strength and Balance
• Basking in Literature
• Italian
• Walk and Talk
• Bolivia
• Lunch Group
• Writing for Pleasure
• Bird Watching
• Life’s Curiosity
• U3A Health Hub
• Bridge
• Natural Resources & Regional Dev.
• UKE3A
• Communicating with Technology
• Yoga
• Photography
• 500
There is also a Social Gathering at 10a.m. on the first Tuesday of each month.
An annual membership fee is payable. A few groups charge a small fee to defray tutor costs.
If any readers are interested in getting further information, phone 03 58213333 or www.gvu3a.com.au. - Wendy Wilson
Riding the Zorb Ball
Enjoying the Ambience
WALKWAY GALLERY
Tatura Community House was abuzz on December 7, as more than 60 community members, art lovers and volunteers celebrated the Grand Opening of our Walkway Gallery. The event was combined with our annual Christmas party, so there was plenty to celebrate. Finger food and yummy mocktails, along with musical entertainment from John Kriesfeld, made for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.
The inaugural exhibition combines three talented local artists, each exhibiting samples of their art, which showcase their unique talents.
Jacob Dedman’s photography journey began when he was just 10 years of age. He has been awarded for his talent in Australian competitions and now at 19, has a dedicated website to showcase his work, the services he offers and photos available to purchase for download. Jacob sees opportunities for photos in the most obscure subjects and enjoys turning these photos into a beautiful capture of time. The photos on display are perfect examples of his talent and are all for sale.
Sharron Handley-Kriesfeld’s art showcases the freedom in which she works, which allows her to explore different styles. Working with a variety of materials, she is able to use different options in her art; movement of energy, techniques, emotions, feelings and inspiration, whilst experiencing great joy as she creates each individual piece. The variety of Sharron’s art on display, captures her own energy and demonstrates the joy she feels in creating each and every piece. Sharron’s art is also for sale.
Intricate illustrations and miniatures are just one of the forms of art which Naomi Kerr breathes life into. She creates tiny pieces for her dolls house creations, using a variety of skills such as crochet and woodwork. Her miniscule ink drawings continually draw you deeper into her work, the more you study them. Naomi invites you to explore her unique creative world, through the pieces she has on display. You will be in awe of Naomi’s talents. Some of Naomi’s artwork on display are for sale.
The inaugural display will be open until the end of February. We encourage other artists to apply for their work to be exhibited in the Walkway Gallery. Details can be found on our website tatcom.vic.edu.au.
TATURA COMMUNITY HOUSE
Welcome to 2024! Here at Tatura Community House, we have an exciting term planned with something for everyone. Come down and enjoy our newly renovated courtyard, it’s a great place to have a quiet read or get some work done J
We have a new inhouse exercise program planned with 4 available sessions and a brand-new local Trainer Michael Stride.
Michael is passionate about helping you become your best and strongest self. He has been working in the fitness industry for 2 years so far but has been training for 7 years prior to becoming a personal trainer. He is super excited to be providing fitness classes for the community house and can’t wait to see you all.
Please give the community house a call 5824 1315 or send an email (manager@ tatcom.com.au) to book in for exercise classes.
Circuit Training – Mondays 10:00 – 10:45am | $50 term | 8 sessions
A group class designed at a level to fit all fitness levels and abilities that challenges you without pushing you to your limits!
Strength and Conditioning – Mondays 11:00 – 11:45am or Fridays 10:00 – 10:45am | $50 term | 8 sessions
A class designed to maintain and build muscle through basic movements completed under tension.
Boxing – Fridays 11:00 – 11:45am $50 term 8 sessions
Get the blood flowing and your heart rate pumping with a workout in boxing.
International Women’s Day Breakfast – Celebrating International Women's Day with two of our local leaders. This is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate and network. Friday 8th March from 7:30 to 9:30am at Hill Top Golf & Country Club | $30 including breakfast. Bookings are essential.
The LEGO Club is a creative hub where builders of all ages gather to explore themed build challenges, share their creations during Show and Tell. It's a supportive community fostering friendship and collaboration, open to both seasoned builders and newcomers. Join us for a world of imaginative fun where every brick tells a unique story!
Fridays 3:45 – 4:45pm during school term (starting 9th February) @ Tatura Library Gold coin donation.
Recycled Art Workshop – Create your personal masterpiece! Bring five random objects from home and let Ryan and Kelly assist you in creating an amazing piece of art.
Saturdays 9th and 23rd March 1:00 to 4:00pm $50 (all other art supplies provided).
Bookings are essential.
We offer a range of different services – please check out our website, give us a call on 5824 1315 or send an email to manager@tatcom.com.au.
Come and check out the new menu and ambiance at Ross Street Cafe/Diner. Since Jody has taken over the premises, he's been extremely busy making many alterations, with still many more to come. I've been checking out the progress on a few occasions and I believe you will be as impressed as I have been. They are also available for catering if you have any special occasions coming up such as parties, functions or whatever. Just call to inquire on 5824 3144. The daily menu is far more extensive now too, but still with the friendly service by girls you already know.
- Janice Dreyer
in the New Look Café
LONGEST DAY FUNDRAISER
The Longest Day is a Cancer Council fundraiser requiring participants play one of 36, 54 or 72 rounds of golf in a single day. Participants usually plan this around the longest day of the year in December. This year Julie Donaldson participated together with son Michael and friend Mitch Walsh, playing 36 holes in humid weather on January 6th. They would like to thank Hill Top Golf & Country Club for access to their beautiful course and those who sponsored their efforts, helping raise more than $2500.
The
Bulletin
Needs Volunteers
Are you interested in joining the team of volunteers at the Tatura Bulletin? Areas where assistance is needed are: • Researching and
and editing of
Julie with Michael and Mitch
GOULBURN-MURRAY WATER
Goulburn-Murray Water (GMW) is continuing to share its knowledge with various groups looking at modernising their infrastructure to support their progress.
During December, GMW hosted separate delegations from Spain and Kazakhstan. Both groups were interested in learning more about GMW’s experience modernising irrigation infrastructure to help inform their own decisions.
GMW began modernising many of its assets in 2008 when the Connections Project was announced.
The project was the largest of its kind in Australia, improved water delivery efficiencies and saved about 433GL of water losses per year.
These savings and efficiencies were achieved by various methods, including replacing old assets such as Dethridge wheels and drop bar regulators with telemetered meters and automated flume gates.
Around the world, there are now many regions looking to embark on a similar journey.
GMW Water Systems Operations manager
Craig Kellow said he was glad to help ensure those doing so could make informed decisions.
“GMW and its customers have benefitted significantly from the modernised delivery network, but it was an enormous undertaking and required a lot of preparation,” he said. “It is important groups considering modernising their assets understand the maintenance requirements, and what different roles might be required of staff to make the transition a success. That is where we can help them and provide some insight.”
GMW has hosted a range of senior officials from several different countries throughout 2023, including deputy prime ministers and vice ministers for agriculture.
“It’s something we always try to make time for when the opportunity arises,” Mr Kellow said.
“We’re fortunate to have the infrastructure we manage here at GMW, so it’s great to be able to pass on our learnings to those who are about to embark on the same journey.”
The tours have been facilitated by Rubicon Water, who are a major provider of gates and meters.
- Klaus Nannestad, Media Advisor
100 LAP CHALLENGE
100 Lap Challenge on again 2024
On Saturday February 24, the annual 100 lap challenge will be held at the Tatura swimming pool. The event has run for 30 years and originated from a bet in the pub about who could swim 100 laps. The event raises funds for the Tatura Hospital and Parkvilla Nursing Home.
Over the years the event has evolved to include teams as well as individual swimmers. Several teams from the community, service clubs and families now enter each year along with the stalwart individuals who always swim the 100 laps.
Each swimmer or team is expected to raise a minimum $100 sponsorship. There are no costs involved in staging the event and all funds go directly to the Hospital and Parkvilla.
Over the years $84,310 has been raised. Recently funds from this event have provided new beds, new Ventolin pumps, a piano, an oxygen concentrator, bladder scanner and refurbishment of the front garden, and fencing to improve the amenity for Parkvilla residents.
Anyone who would like to participate can contact Geoff Lipshut on 0417134929 or Gary Whyte on 58241461.
Recipes
RODNEY CWA RECIPE LEMON WEETBIX SLICE
Ingredients:
175g butter (melted).
3/4 cup caster sugar.
3 Weetbix crushed.
1 cup SR Flour.
2 tins condensed milk
1 1/4 cups lemon juice.
1 cup coconut.
Method:
Grease 20x30cm slice tin and line base and sides with baking paper, allowing the two long sides to overhang.
Place butter, sugar, Weetbix, flour and coconut in large bowl and stir to combine.
Spread mixture over base of slice tin.
Bake 15 min then set aside to cool.
Whisk condensed milk and lemon juice together until smooth. Pour over Weetbix base and bake 20 min, or until edges are slightly bubbling.
Set aside to cool to room temp then place in fridge to chill.
PROBUS
The Probus Club had a very successful outing to the Aviation Museum at Tocumwal on November 16. We had an informative talk when we arrived explaining the history of the airfield. It was in the hands of the Americans for a short time during the war and then became the training ground for Australian fighters. There was a settlement of houses built, about 10 hangars and then engineering and workshops for working on the planes. Some of the hangars are still there, one with a variety of planes for viewing, while the houses ended up being shipped to Canberra after the war. We then looked around at our leisure and watched a short video, before having a very nice lunch. Stopped at the Strawberry farm for an ice cream on the way home.
November was our 25th Birthday, so we had a special morning tea of cupcakes. Betty Durston was our MBB and told us about a trip she and her husband took some years ago to America and Canada. While staying at Yosemite National Park, a moose greeted them one morning, expecting a pat. Betty commented on the amazing rock formations they saw. Another highlight, especially for a young boy in their group, was to wake up to snow falling while at Yellowstone National Park. Unfortunately, the helicopter ride over the Grand Canyon was cancelled due to fog.
Our Guest Speaker was Hilary Griggs, who is the Waste Education Officer with the Shepparton Council. She showed us two videos, one on the treatment of the green waste which finally ends up as high-quality compost, and the other on the Cosgrove land fill. Apparently 5 Regional Shires use the Shepparton treatment plant bringing 28 – 29,000 tons each year. Each truck of waste is weighed and then the unsuitable products included are hand sorted and also weighed, so each shire can be charged accordingly. At Cosgrove 25,000 tons a year goes there, but Hilary commented that with the floods, that that amount of rubbish was almost equaled with the clean-up. There is an EPA levy on every ton of rubbish that goes to landfill. Hilary emphasized how important it is to sort your rubbish correctly. She then answered a lot of members’ questions before being thanked and presented with a Probus pen.
The Spanish Delegation
Queuing for Ice Cream
My interview this month is with Tom Dumaresq OAM JP. My initial aim was to talk to Tom about his involvement with the Goulburn Valley Tree Group, but as you will see from this interview, it branched out quite a deal from there.
John: Hello Tom. Thanks for doing this interview. Your surname sounds French.
Tom: Yes, it was French. My ancestors came to England from France in 1406.
John: It sounds like you’ve done your research.
Tom: I went into the library in the Channel Islands when I was there and asked the librarian what she knew about the surname Dumaresq and she gave me a book that traced the name back to 1406. My great-great grandfather was Governor Darling’s brother-in-law.
John: Wasn’t he the Governor-General of New South Wales in the early-1800’s?
Tom: Yes. My early family members came out with Governor Darling in 1825. They’ve still got the initial farm in Tasmania that they settled on.
John: When did you become involved with the Goulburn Valley Tree Group?
Tom: That was forty years ago, in 1984. Shepparton Irrigation and Forestry Project
John: So, who did you work for?
Tom: I didn’t work for anyone. I had a farm outside Tatura. I grew tomatoes for ten years and got sick of that because there was no money in it, so I planted trees. I put about 50,000 trees in.
John: Were you growing tomatoes for Rosella?
Tom: Yes. I came from Kilmore to Tatura in 1977 and started growing tomatoes a couple of years after that. The last year I grew tomatoes we lost the whole crop to heavy rain. After that I ran some fat lambs and then some cattle. Then I grew some lucerne and planted trees on all the irrigation check banks.
John: Is that where your involvement with the Tree Group began?
Tom: They held a meeting to form the Goulburn Valley Tree Group. Tossie Ryan, Martin Delaney and Geoff Witten were the main people behind the group’s formation and Geoff was the president for the first five years. When Geoff
retired, the vice-president took over from him and I was elected vice-president. However, there was an immediate difference of opinion between the new president and some of the committee members concerning the direction of the tree group, so he resigned and I was made president and have been for the past thirty-five years. I actually just resigned the other day to give some others a go.
John: Thirty-five years! That’s a commendable effort.
Tom: It’s been a rollicking journey over the years. We had our ups and downs, but we’ve got a really good team now. We had fifteen members here this morning pricking trees out.
John: I’m impressed. It’s so hard to get volunteers nowadays so to get fifteen is a great effort.
Tom: The volunteers have planted a lot of trees since the group was formed. Twenty years ago we planted our one millionth tree in Cussen Park and we’ve now planted over two million.
John: Hopefully the millionth tree is still surviving.
Tom: It’s still there although it’s not the best specimen you ever saw.
John: How do you decide which trees to prick out?
Tom: They’re all natives. The reason we started was to address the rising water table that was bringing salt to the surface so we decided to put the trees in.
John: Do you have one native that is more popular than the rest?
T
om: We chose Red Gum and Iron Bark initially because they grew quite quickly. However, when we got to the saturation point where somebody has planted 10,000 trees and doesn’t really want any more, we started selling a much wider variety.
John: What are the main changes you’ve seen over the course of your time here?
Tom: When we first started, we just had a block of dirt down where the Shire depot was near the old vet building. When the Shire amalgamation occurred, we were given the use of our current premises and we set it up properly to suit our purposes. Then the Shire said they wanted to sell the land and the asking price was $90,000. I spoke to Royden James, the Shire secretary, and offered him $50,000 and they took it.
John: So, the tree group actually owns the land. Was the money raised through donations?
Tom: No, we raised the money by selling trees. Once we owned the land, we were able to develop the site by putting up hot houses and shelters for the trees. We were lucky that we were standing in the right place at the right time.
John: No, I don’t believe in that sort of luck. You were proactive. You saw your opportunity, you pressed your case, and you made it happen. That’s what leadership is all about. Luck had nothing to do with it.
Tom: I suppose you’re right. Anyway, we bought it and we made it into a growing concern.
We’re still the cheapest trees around.
John: You certainly are, and you’re local. I find that Tatura people tend to look after local businesses. Can you tell me about some of the local planting projects you’ve organised?
Tom: There was the sewerage farm project in 1997. That was a mammoth undertaking. It took five years and we planted 15,000 trees and had dozens of volunteers. We also organised revegetation along the Midland Highway between Tatura and Mooroopna as well as a revegetation project along Dhurringile Road. We also acquired a tree-planting machine that we would hire out, but unfortunately, one day it never returned, so if anybody knows of its whereabouts, we would appreciate a call.
John: I’m sure you would. How do you see the future.
Tom: I had to change my view on that because I thought we’d run our race. You can only plant so many trees in the ground, and a few years back we weren’t getting the volunteers. I decided that if the Tree Group closed, we should do something with the land so I had a plan to build some units for handicapped people with Down Syndrome. However, we suddenly had an influx of very good people and the Tree Group has had a new lease of life. I think perhaps in the future it could still happen and still have the nursery here and the handicapped people could help run it.
John: That sounds like an excellent idea and it’s something that handicapped people could certainly do.
Tom: It’s a big block so we could easily build three or four units on it and still have plenty of room for the nursery.
John: What’s the biggest problem you have at the moment?
Tom: (After a long pause). We don’t really have any problems. As long as we keep the water up to the trees then everything is fine. Lou Vincitorio put in an automatic watering system a few years ago and has trained the volunteers how to use it. So that’s our story really. I don’t know what else you want to know about us.
John: What are your personal plans going forward now that you’re no longer president of the Tree Group? (It was at this point that I asked a question that I actually hadn’t planned on asking, but I’m very glad that I did). Do you have any other outside interests that keep you busy?
Tom: (giving a wry smile). I have a few. I’m on the committee for Assisi projects. We work in India and Nepal.
John: What’s Assisi?
Tom: Saint Francis of Assisi. That’s where the name came from but we’re a non-denominational mob. I’ve worked in India for 35 years.
John: When you say that you’ve worked in India, have you gone over there?
Tom: I’ve been over eight times. I have a look at what we’re doing and work out ways to help the women and children. That’s our plan.
John: What do you actually do to help?
Tom: We raise money for them. We don’t give
Interviews with John Interviews with John
them any money straight out but finance projects that helps them to grow their own food. The Tree Group has just offered a group in Nepal $5,000 to help them with a forestry project.
John: How did you get involved with this?
Tom: A nun from India, Sister Stella, came to Australia forty years ago to learn how to run a dairy farm. A couple of farmers donated fifteen cows and a couple of bulls and she took them on a boat back to India. I heard that she was returning to Australia so I went to a meeting to listen to her and I found her story quite fascinating. I was chairman of Assisi back in 2002 and I got on the radio one day and raised one million dollars for her.
John: A million dollars!! How?
Tom: Derek Guille was on the radio and he commented that the New Year’s Eve fireworks were going to cost one million dollars. I rang him up and said, “If you can get a million dollars, I’ll have it for a good cause.” Derek was very supportive and his phone didn’t stop ringing for a month and we raised about a million dollars and it’s been going ever since. At one stage when I was president, we had 1,400 groups of women in India with twenty in each group.
John: 1,400 groups of women. Who organises them all?
Tom: We’ve got people in India. Sister Stella and a couple of other nuns work hard organising everything over there.
John: This nun, Sister Stella, coming to Australia looking for cows, has started a whole wave of supportive things for her people. One energetic woman with a vision has changed the lives of so many others. People often say, “I’m only one person, what can I do?” Well, Sister Stella has shown what can be done.
Tom: That’s right. That’s one thing I do with my life. Another thing was, I was also President of the Parish of Mooroopna for twenty-five years. We got some stuff done there too.
John: I’m sure you did; like what?
Tom: I recently went to the opening of the Aboriginal Gardens at the school in Mooroopna and the school principal thanked us for the money that we’d raised, basically through playing Bingo. We also bought three house blocks adjacent to the school and the principal said that we’ve got the best school yard in the area.
John: How long ago was that?
Tom: We bought them as they came up for sale, probably around twelve to fifteen years ago.
John: Have you been nominated as Tatura Citizen of the Year? Do people recognise the good work that you’ve done?
Tom: I was nominated for some sort of award a few years ago, but I don’t live in Tatura. I live in Mooroopna. I was president of the North-West Mooroopna school council for ten years as well, so I’ve done a few things in my life.
John: You certainly have. We all have the potential within us to do great things and it sounds as though you have lived up to your potential.
Tom: Hopefully I have. I’ve also been a Justice of the Peace for 47 years and I’m still active in that area.
John: So, you keep out of trouble with your wife?
Tom: No. She says I should stay home more.
John: But if you did stay home more, she’d be grumbling that you’re always in the way.
Tom: That’s exactly right.
John: Is there anything that you’d like to do that you haven’t done yet?
Tom: Not really, I think I’ve done it all. I’d like to go back to India but unfortunately, I’m not fit enough. I’ve got Parkinson’s. I’ve had it for about five years now and it’s a bit risky going overseas, but I can’t complain. I’ve been to India and Nepal. I’ve walked in Machu Picchu in South America and walked the Kokoda Track in New Guinea.
John: It sounds like you’ve got a lot of stories that you could tell.
Tom: Well, one of my beefs is that you don’t really get to know most people until after they’re dead. You go to their funeral and you hear about all these amazing things that they’ve done and you think that you would have liked to have spoken to these people about their achievements while they were still alive.
John: Perhaps you should write up a few of the stories from your life and we could publish them in the Bulletin. I’m sure people would be interested.
Tom: Maybe. One story I could write about is my sock machine. I’ve decided to knit socks.
John: Did you say ‘sock machine’?
Tom: Yes. My dad had it when I was a kid. He used to sit there knitting our socks for us, but after he died, the machine just sat there for about
50 years, and I’ve only just got it back from another member of the family. I’m trying to get it up and running again.
John: Are you going to sell socks?
Tom: No, I just want to knit them, but I’ve got that many people saying that they’d like a pair of socks once I start knitting them that I’ll be busy for quite some time.
John: And keeping your wife happy by being home more. Thanks Tom, it’s been a pleasure talking to you and good luck for the future. By the way, I’m size 10 when it comes to socks.
Tom: I’ll keep that in mind, and thanks for taking the time to talk with me.
1 hour Massage - $60 ½ hour Massage - $40 Pensioners & Senior Discount Gift Vouchers Available Available Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday
FOR APPOINTMENTS PHONE 0427 349 097
33 Kerferd Street
Entrance to building through carpark off Francis Street
Call Planright for all your civil engineering, irrigation and water needs.
Subdivisions
Planning Permits Designs of: Roads Water
Irrigation Design
Whole Farm Plans
Phone: 5824 1322
139 Hogan Street, Tatura
Tom Dumaresq
DUNYAK MOIRA ‘CATCH AND RELEASE’ FISHING LAGOONS
The Dunyak Moira community fishing ponds at Merrigum, on Yorta Yorta Country are now open to the public. Dunyak Moira, meaning "fishing lake" in Yorta Yorta language, features two previously decommissioned lagoons at the Merrigum Water Treatment Plant. Thanks to Goulburn Valley Water and the Burnanga Indigenous Fishing Club Inc., these once dry lagoons have been transformed into public fishing ponds, complete with floating fishing platforms and root ball fish habitat donated by Emergency Recovery Victoria. Sustainability has been a key factor in the project's development, with the fishing platforms constructed with recycled materials from projects at GVW sites, as well as donated and recycled materials used in other areas of construction.
The lagoons are home to big Murray cod - some measuring nearly a metre in length - and massive yellas that were relocated from Greens Lake and irrigation channels near Shepparton last year. This recreational fishery is privately co-managed by GVW and the Burnanga Indigenous Fishing Club. It celebrates our wonderful native fish and the rich culture that has sustained them for thousands of years.
To ensure it remains a fantastic native fishery for future generations, GVW and the club have a catchand-release policy. This means any cod and yellas caught here must be handled carefully and returned to the water. After a quick pic, of course!
Opening hours are Fridays to Sundays from 6.30am to 7.30pm and can be found at 104-108 Morrissey Street, Merrigum (turn into the side street near the water towers). There is a designated car park area and several picnic tables.
- Janice Dreyer
RODNEY CWA
A wonderful time was had at our Christmas breakup on Thursday December 14. We car-pooled to travel to Girgarre, where we enjoyed an excellent lunch and good company at the cafe at Gargarro, the Botanic Garden. Thank you to Chairman Thelma Wood for the chocolate treats. There were also many plant purchases made.
We have our syllabus for the year: no meeting in January, but we will meet at the Australia Day celebration. Our next meeting is Thursday 8th February at Tatura Bowling Club rooms at 1:30 pm. There will be a Guest Speaker with the theme, “History of the Tatura Halls.” Our competition is a one-liner on, ‘My Favourite Place in Tatura and Why’.
The next Juniors’ meeting is Thursday, February 1 at 7 pm at Hodson House. The program will be craft with polymer clay; competition, ‘A piece of jewellery that you like’.
Beatrice Greaves, publicity
TATURA RSL
On Wednesday December 13, 2023, Tatura R.S.L. had their end of year breakup and Christmas Dinner at our club rooms, in Memorial Place. It was a very pleasant and relaxed evening which was catered for by our very own R.S.L. members, predominately the ladies. Garth McMahon, our Vice President, gave a very short and simple speech on the year 2023, including reference to our new shared club room facility being a definite plus.
The R.S.L. membership wishes to thank all those who contributed to the evening.
The Annual General Meeting will be held at 1.30pm. on Friday, February 2, at the Club rooms, at 2 Memorial Place. All positions will be declared vacant, and elections conducted in the selection process to fill those positions. Moving forward the best selected candidates to fill those positions, for the betterment of the Tatura R.S.L. organization will need to be committed. All Tatura R.S.L members are invited to attend and participate in this process. Unfortunately, as with many previously strong, established traditional organizations in the past, membership numbers have since dwindled, mostly by natural attrition. It is paramount that the Tatura R.S.L. continues. I will speak more about the criteria for membership in the next edition.
The R.S.L. members wish everybody a Happy New Year in 2024.
Lest we forget.
Mal. Watts Tatura R.S.L. member
After lunch at Gargarro
HARSTON CWA
CWA Harston held a morning tea at the Tatura Aged Care Centre, to visit our friends, Mrs. Marie Wright, Mrs. Margaret Donaldson and Delphine Minns. It was
gently raining but Moyola supplied a lovely platter of sandwiches and Glenys Eberle made her award-winning scones.
Sign Unveiling
Dunyak Moira ponds.
Enjoying the Morning Tea
MYSTICAL MURRAY GREYS
Robert, Marilyn and Mark started the family run Murray Grey stud beef cattle farm in 2000.
Robert grew up at Undera from the age of seventeen, where he carted hay and worked with cattle. Most people start out somewhere and for Robert, it was raising commercial cattle for the vealer market.
We purchased our first stud bull from Rockyleigh Murray Greys (now retired) from Maiden Gully. It was through the knowledge of the late Joan Heard, who convinced us to breed purebred Murray Greys.
After joining the Midlands Breed Promotion Group, we met the late Allen Pate who owned the Mt. View Stud at Kilmore. Although these Murray Grey Studs are retired, their genetics live on.
In the early days we were members of the Murray Grey Beef Cattle Society, and today we choose to be with the Murray Grey Australia Association due to the more reasonable costs and one-off animal registration fee. Only registered cattle can be shown at Agricultural Shows.
In 2005, the Murray Greys were the feature breed at the Royal Melbourne Show and we entered a heifer who was placed mid-field by the judge. From there we entered the same heifer at Bendigo Show, where she won the Interbreed.
In 2013, a steer we bred won light export at Bendigo National Beef on the hook, and we competed with our cattle in the show ring for ten years with huge success.
Today our bloodlines are based on Mt. View, Robern, Saber, Woodbourn and Monterey Murray Greys. These are some of the well-known Murray Grey studs. We also extensively use artificial insemination to improve the herd with the semen used being Michaelong Trumpcard and Saber Zappa. The sale bulls are all guaranteed, semen tested and accessed for structural soundness.
Mystical Murray Greys are 100% purebred bloodlines breeding true to form Murray Grey Cattle.
Mystical Murray Greys will be open for Beef Week on Thursday, February 1. We are located at 1345 Toolamba-Rushworth Road, Tatura.
CAROL’S LIFE-CAST FINDS ITS HOME.
This is a story 38 years in the making. In 1985, I was the Co-ordinator of the Coburg Community Youth Support Scheme (CYSS). During a time of high youth unemployment, CYSS was then Prime Minister, Malcolm Fraser's idea of being "seen to be doing something about youth unemployment."
At Coburg CYSS, we offered a range of pre-vocational and recreational courses, as well as providing personal support to vulnerable young people, who were unemployed.
One of our participants, John, developed an interest in ceramics and plaster casting. During one session, John created a Life cast of Carol, the young woman in charge of our Women's Programs.
John created a mould with latex rubber and plaster bandages and then used that mould to cast a plaster replica of Carol’s face.
A few years later, Carol had moved from Coburg to the country, married, and had two children. Sadly, Carol phoned to tell us she had been diagnosed with cancer of the cervix. Tragically, despite surgery, treatment and embracing alternative strategies, Carol died in 1998.
Over the years, I maintained contact with John and his mother, but we lost contact with Bruce, Carol’s husband John had kept the Life cast of Carol's face, and as the years passed, he urged me to find Bruce, and ask if he would like Carol’s Life cast. With some hesitancy, I eventually reached out to Bruce via social media, but we didn’t make any plans to meet in person.
Time passed. John's health declined, and he implored me, with greater urgency, to ask Bruce about Carol's Life cast. Tentatively, I raised the subject with Bruce, explaining John's connection with Carol and the Life cast of Carol that John had kept safely since 1986. Bruce said he would think about it and talk to his children. But more years went by without further communication.
Then suddenly, the week before Christmas last year, I received a message from Bruce. He would be in Melbourne to drop his sister at the airport, and he wanted to meet me and to introduce himself to John. He also expressed interest in seeing, and possibly taking, Carol’s Life cast home with him.
triggered by touch. Unlike our other senses, touch requires bodily contact, and our skin is the primary sense organ through which we perceive touch. The absence of touch is one of the many things that produce longing in the bereaved, for example, missing hugs from the person who has died. Bruce’s relationship with Carol involved touching, smiling, holding, mutual gazing, and physical intimacy. Bruce’s haptic memory remembered Carol’s skin, the shape of her cheekbones, and much more. We were privileged to witness a sacred time. It was as though Carol and Bruce were together, exchanging intimate moments.
Eventually, Bruce looked up, smiled, and said his daughter had the same nose. Everyone smiled and visibly relaxed. Relief washed over us, and John enjoyed sharing stories of how Carol had supported and helped him during his time at Coburg CYSS.
Touch features in many of the Gospel stories, particularly in several of the healing stories. There is a story of a woman who had been sick for 12 years. She approached Jesus for healing. She said to herself, “If only I may touch the fringe of his garment, I shall be made well.” Sure enough, she was healed the instant she touched Jesus, and he said, “Somebody touched me for I felt power go out of me.” (Luke 8:46)
The word that Jesus used for touch is “haptomai”, which means “To alter by touching.” or “Touching someone in a way that changes them.” Jesus was effectively saying, “Someone really touched me. Someone touched me in a way that made an impact on me.”
As we left John, I couldn't believe that after so many years, this touching reunion, pun intended, had finally happened. We hugged as we said goodbye.
Bruce later messaged me to say that his children, who were quite young when Carol died, cherished Carol’s Life cast because it brought back many memories to them, in ways that photos and stories couldn’t.
The hurt and trauma that we suffer over our lifetime shapes who we are. Trauma is not healed by forgetting it, but by its transformation. The message of the incarnation is that, in Jesus, God became one of us. When we hurt, God hurts. When we reach out to God with faith, even in very imperfect ways, maybe full of our own ego, confusion, and doubt, when we reach out and discreetly “touch the fringe of Jesus’ garment,” he feels it, reacts with love, and touches us back.
This is the Gospel and it’s good news.
Brian Spencer, Minister, Tatura Uniting Church
The next morning, my wife and I met Bruce outside the residential care home where John lives. After a brief reunion with Bruce on the nature strip, we entered John's room. John is now extremely ill, so he was lying in bed, pale and frail.
After introducing Bruce and John to each other, and some general conversation, John asked my wife to pick up Carol's Life cast and give it to Bruce. While this happened, we held our breath, waiting to see how Bruce would respond.
Bruce held his late wife's plaster face with reverence, staring at it and caressing its contoured surface. The plaster cast shows the features of a young woman. It brought back memories of years before. Witnessing Bruce lovingly holding Carol’s cast face reinforced the tragedy of her premature death.
The memory of touch. They call it “Haptic memory”, the process of identifying an object by touch. When we touch something or someone connected to our past, involuntary memories surface unconsciously,
Murray Greys
CAN YOU PLEASE EXPLAIN THIS TO ME?
by Ma Merle
“So, Merle,” said Agnes as she sat down opposite me at the table in the café, “I hope you don’t mind, but I have asked Marybelle to join us at the café today for tea and cakes. She moved in a few houses up from me recently and doesn’t really know anyone yet. I have met her in the street a couple of times while she was out watering her nature strip. Is that okay with you?”
I tried not to frown as this was not really news that I welcomed. “Well firstly Agnes, you know I am not a fan of people watering their nature strips. I mean water is so important to us and I find it such a waste to use it just to show off your green grass that nobody even walks on. Yes, a waste indeed. And secondly, she can come this once, but let’s not make a habit of it. You know I like the set up just as it is with just you and me. We can be free to talk about whatever we like, and I enjoy it that way. I don’t want any third wheel intruding and besides, a third person always causes trouble, everyone knows that.”
Agnes smiled gently. “Yes of course, Merle, but I thought she would really like meeting you and she is quite bored at the moment because she hasn’t joined any groups yet. And to be fair, I think she is only watering her nature strip so she can meet people as they go by. I am guessing she is quite lonely.”
We decided to wait and not order anything until Marybelle arrived and a couple of minutes later Agnes’s new friend walked through the door. “Oh, look there she is now,” said Agnes as she waved at Marybelle who immediately hurried towards our table, beginning to speak to Agnes while she was only halfway there. She yabbered on nonstop at Agnes as she fussed around, setting her bag down, pulling out her chair, finding her glasses, moving the salt and pepper shaker to a new position, and the sugar didn’t survive her re-arranging fingers either. It got firmly plopped down on the other side of the table. She fiddled and fuddled and finally looked up at me as she sat down far too close to my chair. “Hello, you must be Merle. I’m Marybelle. I have heard so much about you. All good though,” she said as she let out a long, braying laugh. I was hoping my face did not show what my mind was thinking.” Oh, my goodness,” I thought.
“Will she ever draw breath?”
“It’s just so nice to put a face to the name,” Marybelle launched off once again. “I am not that great with names I must say, but I will certainly remember yours as Agnes talks about her best friend all the time. I had a best friend back in Melbourne, but I don’t know anyone up here yet, so getting to know you two is so wonderful. I mean, we all need friends, don’t we?”
I began to move my lips to reply but that is as far as I got before she started up again, like a windup toy.
“Friends and family are really important to everyone. I do have some family issues though.
I mean my son and his wife came up recently and they just picked on my new home, saying
you should do this mum and you should do that mum. I don’t know why you moved away mum. Now we have to drive for hours if we want to visit you. Oh, they just went on and on. All about them really and how I have put them out simply because I moved away.”
“I wonder where they got that from,” I thought to myself.
“Anyway”, Marybelle continued as she patted me roughly on the arm, “what about your family? Where are they all living at the moment?”
I was not enjoying being roughed up by this woman but tried to stay calm and friendly. “Well,” I said pleasantly, “they all live in different places, like…”
“Yes, yes,” she intervened with another loud laugh. “I know how you feel. Yes, my kids are everywhere too. Sometimes I think they moved away on purpose.” She laughed loudly once again as she poked me on the arm.
I had only just met her, but I think I already knew why her children had all moved far away from her. Unfortunately, Marybelle just blathered on and on, and every time she spoke to me, she poked my arm and stared straight at me, her big eyeballs drilling into my soul. I was hoping I wasn’t too obvious as I leaned as far back in my chair as I could without tipping over in a futile effort to create more space between us. I mean there is such a thing called personal space. I have definitely heard about it and mine was being savagely invaded. I don’t think I had heard Agnes’s voice for ever so long. Finally, there was a very brief moment when Marybelle paused to take a sip of her tea and I had the opportunity to say something.
“Agnes, how is Fred at the moment? Is his leg healing from that cut?” I didn’t really care about Fred’s leg, but just wanted to take the conversation in a different direction, and away from Marybelle’s constant yabbering.
“Yes, his leg”…began Agnes.
“Oh, don’t talk to me about legs,” groaned Marybelle. “Mine have been aching so much lately I will probably need to go and see a doctor. I hobble around in the mornings for ages before they warm up enough to walk properly. Can you recommend a good doctor around here ladies? I bet you can Merle,” she said as she biffed me on the arm once again.
“Well, I may need to go and see one myself soon,” I replied gruffly. “I’m sure there is a blood clot currently forming in my arm with all the whacking you’ve given it.”
“Oh heavens,” she said apologetically. “I’m afraid that’s a little habit of mine. I do tend to poke people when I speak. I just get so excited, you know. My kids hate it. Stop hitting and poking us they say. Haha, they do seem to complain a lot about our behaviour once they’ve grown up, don’t they?”
“I can see why they complain about yours,”
I thought to myself but worked very hard not to say it out loud. “Yes, I suppose,” was all I could manage.
Marybelle started to speak again, but Agnes interrupted her by speaking quite loudly and firmly over the top of her. “Merle, I need to be home early today, so we may have to cut our little meeting short. Is that okay if we all head off now?”
“Yes definitely,” I said as I glanced across at Agnes and gave her a knowing look. “I must get home to catch up on something important as well.”
Marybelle spoke rapidly for the next five minutes about everything and anything, including when we should catch up next, and how lovely it is to now have a couple of friends. After I got home from the café, I called Agnes to see if she was home as I needed to come around and talk to her. She was, so I quickly rushed around there and began talking the moment Agnes opened the front door. “Agnes, I simply cannot take one more minute of that overtalking little bully, so full of her own life. She is absolutely appalling.”
Agnes nodded quickly. “I couldn’t agree more Merle. Heavens, I thought she chatted a bit when I met her out the front, but she just took it to a whole new level today. I agree Merle, we simply cannot have her join us again. It just won’t work.” Agnes was very serious as she spoke, and unusually decisive.
“I’m glad we’re in agreement,” I replied. “In fact, if we do see her again and she continues to lay into me, I will be very tempted to hit her back, fair and square. What is she thinking whacking someone in the arm every time she speaks? How dare she lay her hands on me.” I was getting more cross now than I had been at the time. “I probably should have spoken up at the café because I did not like it, Agnes.”
“Merle, I am so sorry she did that and I am so sorry that now you are upset. We will need to be straight with her so as not to drag it out. We will just tell her we are too busy for catch ups anymore,” said Agnes.
I smiled. “That’s not really being straight though Agnes, is it?”
“Well, I don’t really want to hurt her feelings, Merle,” replied Agnes, who was always the softy.
I frowned. “I’d like to hurt more than her feelings; I can tell you. Well, just tell her that then, and we will be done with it.” I waited a moment and then said, “I don’t suppose you have any cake lying around. I just know another cup of tea and some cake will calm me down.”
“I always have cake for my best friend Merle,” Agnes said in a funny voice. We both giggled and prepared for round two of cakes and tea for the day. Yes, Agnes was my best friend, and I was very lucky to have her, and I am not about to share her either.
Why do some people think everything is about them? And why can’t they read other people’s reactions? Can someone please explain? Anyone?
Tatura Hospital
50 YEARS AGO
No babies have been born at Tatura Hospital for some week as the hospital does not at present have a double certificate sister on the staff. Tatura and district mothers have been going to Shepparton for their confinements.
Mr Hugh Blake of the Tatura Hospital Committee said yesterday that this is only a temporary measure and every effort is being made to secure the services of a qualified sister.
Cannery to Open January 21
Rosella’s Tatura tomato processing factory will commence the new processing season on Monday January 21.
Mr Tim Dyer, manager of the Rosella factory, said that this is about one month later than usual. Prospects now depend on the weather and warm dry weather is needed. The prolonged rain so far has not caused any damage as all the tomatoes were planted late.
Rotary Exchange Student
Miss Jenene Rea, who recently returned home after spending 12 months in the Philippines as a Rotary Exchange Student, will be a guest speaker at Tatura Rotary Club where her subject will be ‘A Year in the Philippines’.
Five Man Tandem Cycle
John Ranson, Jack Forster and three other young men of Tatura town have hit on a novel way of advertising the Back to Tatura. They are building a five-man tandem cycle which they will ride to Shepparton and other spots around the district. Jack Forster is in charge of the monster which will have motor bike chains and wheels to help it stand up to the pedalling of five pairs of strong legs.
Overseas
Former Tatura footballer Allan Gale with wife Linda and son Simon will be flying from Sydney Airport bound for Boston, Massachusetts where Allan has been transferred in his work for 12 months.
Approaching Marriage
Mr and Mrs N. Graham announce the marriage of Karen Jewell Graham with Frederick Gordon Ferguson at All Saints Church, Tatura on Saturday January 19 at 7pm. (They are still together, living in Mooroopna)
Roland Crosby Signs With Bulldogs
Former Shepparton and North Melbourne footballer, Roland Crosby, who recently returned to the Goulburn Valley, has decided to play football with Tatura, and he has signed with that club. Tatura Football Club secretary, Mr Charlie Taylor, said this week that the negotiations between Roland Crosby and the football club had ended satisfactorily.
Public Notices
Tatura Football Club, notice to players and intending players, Official Training commences under coach Norm Smith on Monday night February 4 at 6.30pm. Sandshoes to be worn – C Taylor Secretary. (Nowadays preseason begins in mid-November)
Dennis Smith Wins Group 5 Singles Championship
In the final against Norm Hadfield of Stanhope, Dennis, with precision draw bowling and fast drives, won 21-11. This was the first time in the history of this event that both finalists have come from the Goulburn Valley Association, and both players are to be congratulated on reaching the final.
Cricket Scores
In A Grade Tatura made 145, John Dignan 45 and David Lanyon 27 being top scorers. In reply Tongala were 8/116 Alex Ranson 4/29 and Jack Forster 2/21 being the best of the bowlers, the match ending in a draw.
Peter and Sue Manufacturing Jeweller
Specialising in Jewellery Manufacturing, Remodelling and Repairs 150 Hogan Street, Tatura, Victoria 3616 (03) 5824 1100
by Andy Crawford
In B Grade Girgarre made 125 runs, best bowlers being Bruce Gross 4/25 and Gary Russell 2/12. In reply, Tatura 1 was all out for 65 with Alan Sands top scoring with 16. Tatura 2 played Methodists who made 9/181 dec, Neil Hamilton taking 4/55. In reply, Tatura 2 made 31 and in their second innings were 5/65 with Kevin Payne top scoring with 29. (Kevin went on to play football with Melbourne)
Country Week Team
Two Tatura players, batsman Steve Cohen and David Lanyon have been included in the K.D.C.A. cricket team for Bendigo Country Week.
Wally Sinclair Takes ‘Top’ Title
Hill Top Bowls Championship was finalised on Sunday when a gallery of about 60 enthusiasts saw Wally Sinclair win his second club championship in five years when he defeated John McCann 31-23. A feature of the game was the excellent draw bowling of Wally in the wide hand of the green. Fred Volks Third Title
With a fine all-round exhibition of bowls Fred Volk won his third Tatura Club singles championship when he very comfortably defeated Gordon Dunlop 31-12 on a windswept 15 seconds green.
Although the scores were not close, the large gallery found the match very interesting, especially as both players ‘fired’ on occasions. Gordon was unlucky to have a series of near misses for he is usually an accurate driver.
Guides Busy
Guides have had a busy time since their last meeting in December which was celebrated with a social meeting. The Company was responsible for the selling of 500 carol books for Carols by Candlelight, the proceeds of which go to help maintain the Blind Babies Home in Melbourne.
Book Reviews WITH KERRY…
THE HELP
By Kathryn Stockett
Enter a vanished world: Jackson, Mississippi 1962. There’s Aibileen, raising her seventeenth white child and nursing the hurt caused by her own son’s tragic death; Minny whose cooking is nearly as sassy as her tongue; and white Miss Skeeter, home from college, who wants to know why her beloved maid has disappeared.
Skeeter, Aibileen and Minny. No-one would believe they’d be friends; fewer still would tolerate it. But as each woman finds the courage to cross boundaries, they come to depend and rely upon one another. Each is in search of a truth, and together they have an extraordinary story to tell.
I had watched the movie ‘The Help’ several times and enjoyed it each time. Very strong female actors and an exceptional story. I wondered if there would be a big difference between movie and book which is sometimes the case.
Both book and movie were similar and not too much deviation on the movies part and both are brilliant.
CELEBRATIONS
The Tatura Australia Day Committee invites everyone to attend the 2024 Australia Day event to be held on Friday, January 26. Come along to Victory Hall in Hogan Street to help celebrate what is great about this country.
8.30am: Free bacon and egg breakfast
9.30am: Formal event commences and includes the Australia Day Awards
11am: Event concludes with a free morning tea.
There will be musical entertainment by Juliana DeQuilettes, and the Guest Speaker will be Neta Kirby.
Further details can be obtained from Rod on 0419 924 610 or Rob on 0473 167 213.
Recipes
RODNEY CWA RECIPE
Granny’s Bun, a family favourite
Ingredients
¼ lb butter
2 cups self-raising flour
1 cup sugar
Currants
Peel
Less than a cup of milk
Nutmeg
Salt
Method
Scone method
Best in a ring tin 175 degrees for 35 minutes
Recipes
ALOHA PATTIES
Ingredients:
1/2kg Minced Steak
1 chopped Onion
Pea & Ham Soup Packet
Pineapple Rings
2 teaspoons Cornflour
1 teaspoon Soy Sauce
Sliced Capsicum
Method:
Mix steak, onion and contents of soup packet.
Form into Cakes.
Fry until brown on both sides.
Place each cake on a drained pineapple ring in a casserole.
Add water to pineapple juice to make up 1 cup.
Blend with cornflour & soy sauce.
Boil to thicken.
Add capsicums to meat cakes and pour over sauce.
Cover and bake at 180 degrees for 35 minutes.
- Janice Dreyer
WORLD EVENTS in November AUSTRALIA DAY
February 1 – Serpent Day. Serpent day is a day of reflection and coming to grips with our fears. Serpents have often been associated with wisdom and cunning and we all need to stop and take stock at different times in our life and contemplate what our life lessons have taught us so far.
February 2 – Groundhog Day. Didn’t we celebrate this last year and again the year before that? I have a strong sense of déjà vu about this.
February 3 – World Wetlands Day. Wetlands absorb rainfall thereby reducing floods and droughts. They also provide a safe habitat for a wide variety of birds, many of them endangered. Our very own wetlands, Cussen Park, adds a further layer of interest and complexity to the Tatura environment so get out there and enjoy these interesting surrounds. Don’t forget the mosquito repellent and watch out for the occasional snake.
February 4 – World Cancer Day – This day is to help people around the world to imagine a better way of doing things and to build a fairer vision of the future, a future where people live healthier lives and have better access to health and cancer services, no matter where they are born, grow, age, work or live. We tend to live a sheltered life in Australia and unfortunately, not everyone is as fortunate as we are.
February 8 – World Propose Day. This is the second day in the Valentine Week and has more to do with marriage rather than simply proposing that you pop down to the pub for a nice cold beer.
February 9 – Read in The Bathtub Day. This is an opportunity to spend some relaxing time in the bath with a few scented candles, some aromatic bubble bath, your rubber ducky and your favourite book. My advice is just to spend half an hour in the evening rather than the whole day as you could emerge looking quite wrinkled, and unfortunately, some of us have more than enough already.
February 10 – Don’t Cry Over Spilled Milk Day. It is what it is, so don’t stress about it, simply clean up the mess and move on. You can’t change the past so the best way to celebrate this day is to forgive yourself for past mistakes and get on with your life. Your future has yet to be written.
February 11 – Get A Different Name Day. We identify with our names because we’ve always had them but do they really suit us? Taking on a new name can help affirm a new identity or the future path we plan to tread now that we’ve reached a fork in the road. You don’t have to change it legally, just make it known that this is now the new you. Some of the worst baby names for 2023 were; (Boys) Chasecox, Kingslayer, Uranus, Sacred, Jacuzzi, (Girls) Reinbeaux, Xy, Kviiilyn, Phelany, Pestilence. Up and coming baby names for 2024 are Artemis, Callahan, Eyre, Torben, Vita and Wolf. I haven’t designated if they’re boy’s or girl’s name because I don’t really know.
February 12 – Charles Darwin Day. The purpose of the day is to inspire people throughout the globe to reflect and act on the principles of intellectual bravery, perpetual
curiosity, scientific thinking, and hunger for truth, as embodied in Charles Darwin. Although this day has been around for a while, it’s still evolving.
February 14 – Valentine’s Day. To all the men folk reading this, give her something on this day, anything at all. Flowers are always a winner and dinner at a nice restaurant goes over just as well. I’m warning you, do nothing at your peril. They may say you don’t need to do anything for them but that’s just an insidious test which will herald the next ice age if you fail to pass. Actually, if we all do nothing then this could end global warming!
February 17 – International Random Acts of Kindness Day. The fact that we need to contemplate such a day speaks volumes for our current society. Some people have become so insular that their whole focus is based upon a small 10cm screen held immediately in front of their face and they’re completely unaware of what is happening around them. For those readers who still have a life, research has shown that the giver of the good deed receives just as many benefits as the receiver. An actual win-win situation. Remember, what comes around, goes around, karma and all of that.
February 18 – Clean Out Your Bookcase Day. Just do it. Why read the same book twice? It just means that’s one less book you will read over the course of your life. Donate them to the Op Shop and let somebody else get the pleasure from reading them.
February 21 – World Mother Tongue Day. Rest easy. This is not a day reserved for a welldeserved tongue lashing from your mother for all those stupid things you have done during the past twelve months, and there have been quite a few haven’t there? This is yet another awareness raising day that promotes linguistic and cultural diversity. There are now so many awareness raising days that I think we should have an international blasé day just so we can recover our equilibrium.
February 22 – World Humble Day.
According to C.S. Lewis, “True humility is not thinking less of yourself; it is thinking of yourself less.” However, I prefer the quote from philosopher Criss Jami, “The biggest challenge after success is shutting up about it.” Please note that you cannot actually claim to be a humble person as that will be seen as an act of pride.
February 23 – International Dog Biscuit Appreciation Day – This has nothing to do with pensioners struggling on their meagre government handout. This is all about rewarding your faithful dog for their unremitting, non-judgemental loyalty and devotion. They are the ones who will truly appreciate a tasty dog biscuit.
February 27 – No Brainer Day. This is basically a chill-out day where you do all the little things that are simple, obvious and logical. If a job requires thinking, study or analysis then put it off until tomorrow. Give your brain a rest. Please note that this is entirely different to International Procrastination Day, although only a true master of the art of laziness can tell the difference.
- John Kriesfeld
GUNDAGAI - WELL WORTH A VISIT
On a recent drive to Canberra, I stopped for a break at Gundagai and spent a few enjoyable hours in this lovely town. Wanting to check out the Old Gaol and Courthouse, after paying a low fee at the Visitor Information Centre I was given a narrated audio with headphones, map and a key to unlock padlocks at different areas in the jail and headed there for a self-guided tour. When I arrived, I felt like I had taken a step back in time. I was able to explore cells that held infamous bush rangers Moonlite and Peisley and enjoyed the narration of various stories of law and order in the frontier town. Following the devastating 1852 flood, the town lock-up needed to be rebuilt as a watch-house or gaol. Therefore, the historic Gaol was built around 1859 and the Court House was one of the first stone buildings to be erected after the Gundagai floods. Further additions were completed in 1861 and in 1863 a kitchen was built. The buildings are surrounded by a high wall of local slate with rendered capping, and this was constructed in 1866. The gaol consists of a cluster of structures, including the Gaoler's residence, the external kitchen block, the hospital (original gaol), the gaol including exercise yard, an outhouse, outbuilding and a well.
I learned that prisoners with short term sentences, who had been sentenced at Gundagai or at courts in the surrounding district, were incarcerated in the Gundagai Gaol. Prisoners, including bush rangers, who were in transit to other gaols were also accommodated there.
Although no longer in use, Gundagai Gaol is one of the few remaining gaol compounds dating from 1859 and a rare and largely intact example of its type. In 1870 the Gundagai Gaol was classed as a "lock-up" or "proclaimed gaol" and could accommodate from four to twenty prisoners. During this year the actual number of prisoners received included 4 debtors, 19 males and 2 females awaiting trial, 55 males and 3 females "in transit", 11 males under sentence to labour, 7 males and 3 females sentenced to imprisonment, with none in solitary confinement. The greatest number received at one time totalled 9. Gundagai Gaol was closed in the 1970's and a holding cell was constructed at the Gundagai Police Station.
While in town I also checked out Rusconi's Marble Masterpiece, which stands 1.2 metres high and is permanently on display at the Visitor Information Centre. A true craftsman, Frank Rusconi, the sculptor of the famous Dog on the Tuckerbox, also left another impressive legacy for Gundagai in the form of this unique cathedral-in-miniature from 20, 948 individual pieces of marble; every piece cut, turned and polished by hand over a 28 year period. I was surprised to hear no plans or drawings have ever been found and it therefore appears he did the statue entirely by sight alone. Some of his other works include the marble stairway at Westminster Abbey in London and he died in 1964 at the age of 90.
I had also walked up and down the main street, reading plaques on different old buildings that gave information about them and was very impressed by a really old bridge as well. I'll definitely have to return to see the Museum, Gallery and Historic Railway Station too.
There was just too much for my short visit on this occasion.
- Janice Dreyer
Gaoler's Residence
Outside Wall
Exercise Yard
Rusconi's Masterpiece
IT’S OUR BIRTHDAY
The Tatura Area Community Bulletin celebrates 40 years this year.
We have progressed from humble beginnings when there were usually about 16 pages, manually typed and printed on a photocopier, to the current production of usually 28-32 pages, several in colour, printed and stapled by Rodney Printers. The Bulletin has been provided free of charge to all households in Tatura and is now delivered to all households in Toolamba as well. It is available from several outlets in Murchison, Ardmona, Merrigum, and Tatura. Current circulation is around 3,000.
We have had many compliments over the years and readers have enjoyed keeping up with the latest news, doing the puzzles and finding out what is happening in the community. However, unless we get new volunteers the Bulletin will cease production. Several current members have been on the committee for over 10 years and would like to reduce their involvement. Despite asking for help on several occasions over the past few years we have had very few new volunteers. So, to help prospective volunteers know what they could do, here is some information about what is involved. Please note that you will not be ‘thrown in the deep end’ and there will always be someone to provide support.
This is what producing the Bulletin involves, starting with the monthly meeting which is held on the first Tuesday of the month, currently at 7pm in the Bulletin office next to the courthouse. Meetings generally run for about 1/2 hour.
Monthly Meeting
• Review of previous issue – any problems?
• Presentation of financials
• Discussion of next issue – what do we need to follow up, what will go on the front page? Behind the scenes the following happens.
• Update the Dropbox ready for the next issue.
• Contact our regular contributors by email the week before deadline to remind them that they need to submit any articles they want included in the next issue.
• Follow up with prospective/intermittent advertisers.
Our busiest period is the week before deadline day which is the second Wednesday in each month.
Activities that happen from the meeting until deadline day (second Wednesday in the month)
• Regularly check to see what has been submitted.
• Check in with those advertisers who aren’t on a regular program of advertising (month by month or 6 monthly)
• Check with new businesses to see if they want to run an article and advertise.
• Edit, proof-read and put submitted articles into the required format.
Deadline Day, usually 9-12 at the office on the second Wednesday of the month. This is when the articles, photos and other contributions are finalised.
• Proof reading
• Cutting pages of articles into individual articles
• Match photos with relevant articles
• Finalise ads to go into the next issue.
Paste Up is done in the morning of the Friday after deadline.
This involves laying out all the articles, photos, and ads in the way they are to be printed. (Think a big jigsaw.) This is best done by two people as otherwise we get in each other’s road. Once the laying out is done, then the pages are put into the order required by the printers and any alterations to ads are noted. We aim for 28 pages but are flexible. All this is then taken to the printers to work their magic.
Distribution
A one-person job due to space constraints, this involves putting all 3,000 copies of the Bulletin into bundles ready for the deliverers to collect and deliver.
Delivery
A team of volunteers delivers the Bulletin, aiming for it to be delivered by the fourth Wednesday in the month. Behind the Scenes
Meanwhile the usual office tasks need to be carried out.
• Respond to emails.
• Check phone answering machine.
• Check the letterbox.
• Ensure there are enough office supplies.
• Cut out the ads from one issue to be used in the layout of the next
• Filing!
What You Could Do To Help
If you can spare 2 hours in the month you could:
• Get the advertiser sheets ready for those who will be following up with advertisers. (You will need Excel skills for this)
• Follow up advertisers.
• Proofread.
• Put submitted articles into required format
(Can you use Word?)
• Prepare articles.
• Help deliver the Bulletin on the fourth Tuesday of the month (and earn some cash)
“QUOTE OF THE MONTH”
The quote this month is by Theodore Roosevelt, the 26th President of the United States, and is considered to be one of the most important quotes in human history.
THE MAN IN THE ARENA
“It is not the critic who counts; not the man who points out how the strong man stumbles, or where the doer of deeds could have done them better.
The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood; who strives valiantly; who errs, who comes up short again and again, because there is no effort without error and shortcoming; but who does actually strive to do the deeds; who knows great enthusiasms, the great devotions; who spends himself in worthy cause; who at best knows in the end the triumph of high achievement, and who at worst, if he fails, at least fails while daring greatly, so that his place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who neither know victory nor defeat.”
- Theodore Roosevelt
ORIGINS OF VALENTINE’S DAY
Who was Saint Valentine? According to legend, Valentine was a third century priest in Rome during the reign of Emperor Claudius II. Claudius decided that single men made better soldiers than those with wives and children and banned his troops from marrying. Valentine viewed this decree as unjust and defied Claudius by continuing to perform marriages for the emperor’s soldiers. When Valentine’s actions were discovered, Claudius sentenced him to death. While Valentine was rotting in prison waiting for his sentence to be carried out, he fell in love with the jailer’s daughter after he saw her accompanying her father on his rounds. Before his death, it is alleged that he wrote her a letter signed, “From your Valentine,” an expression that is still in use today.
Some scholars believe that Valentine’s Day is celebrated to commemorate the anniversary of Valentine’s death while others claim that the Christian church placed St. Valentine’s feast day there in order to Christianise the pagan celebration of Lupercalia which was celebrated February 13 to 15. Lupercalia was a very ancient pastoral festival dedicated to Faunus, the Roman god of agriculture and was held to avert evil spirits, purify the city and release health and fertility. The Lupercalia festival was also partly in honour of Lupa the she-wolf who suckled the infant orphans, Romulus and Remus, the founders of Rome, explaining the name of the festival, Lupercalia, or ‘Wolf Festival.’
By the middle of the 18th century, it was common for friends and lovers of all social classes to exchange small tokens of affection or handwritten notes, and by 1900 printed cards began to replace written letters due to improvements in printing technology.
THE BUTTERFLY EFFECT by
Avid readers of the Bulletin will come across the term, the ‘Butterfly Effect’ when reading my previous time travelling stories involving those two intrepid time travellers, Samantha and James Peabody. For those of you who are not entirely familiar with this theory, here is how James explained it to his wife, Samantha.
James: The Butterfly Effect was a term originally coined by Professor Edward Lorenz to explain changes in weather patterns. However, his original term has now been broadened to encompass any small change in an initial condition that leads to a significantly different outcome.
Samantha: I’m sorry dear, but your explanation has left me no wiser.
James: Okay, let me give you a couple of examples and I’ll start with an actual butterfly. It’s 1914 in Bavaria, World War One has broken out and Otto Schmitt is feeling a little lazy. He usually walks to work but this morning he decides to take his car. On the short drive into town, a butterfly smashes into his windscreen and immediately departs for insect heaven. This event has absolutely no effect on our current history. However, if Otto had overcome his laziness and walked to work then the world today would be completely and utterly different. The butterfly would have been able to continue its leisurely flight and eventually come across two young soldiers, Adolph Hitler and Hans Gruber on their way to attend rifle practice. As the butterfly flew in front of Hans Gruber’s face, momentarily startling him, he steps back into a small hole, loses his balance and accidently shoots young Adolph in the thigh. How the hole in the ground came to be there is another butterfly effect as without the hole, Hans would not have lost his balance. The circumstances that led him to carry a loaded rifle is another effect. Anyway, after six months in hospital, young Adolph is sent home to Austria where he becomes a fairly successful landscape artist. He later marries his childhood sweetheart, has three children and dies in a mountaineering accident in 1937.
Samantha: So, because he killed the butterfly, Otto Schmitt was responsible for World War Two?
James: Indirectly yes, but he would never have known it.
Samantha: Therefore, what you’re saying is that we shouldn’t kill anything at all when we travel back in time.
James: Well, the Butterfly Effect is much more than that. The past has actually happened. Every small event has interacted exactly and precisely with every other small event to produce our present situation. Unfortunately, our very presence will upset the timeline in a myriad of small ways. Just say that we decide to line up at a café for a cup of coffee when we travel back in time and it takes the barista four minutes to serve the two of us. In the original timeline, the man behind us was served four minutes earlier. Every event in his life for the remainder of that day will now be four minutes out of synchronisation with the events that shaped our present life. He will now be encountering
different people and possibly saying different things or making different decisions, no matter how small, until he climbs into bed that night and his timeline resets. Every other person he meets will also be behaving slightly differently due to that four minute time difference and it snowballs from there.
Samantha: That’s a lot of butterflies flying through time.
James: If we travel back in time and then return to the present and things are significantly different then there’s a good chance that we’re responsible for it. However, the thing about the Butterfly Effect is that it’s impossible to know when one has occurred in our present time. Here’s a final example. Henry Miller usually kisses his wife good-bye before he goes to work, but on this day she’s still in the bathroom when he’s ready to leave, and as he’s feeling a bit grumpy, he decides not to wait another thirty seconds, hops in his car and drives off.
Samantha: Are cars always involved?
James: Of course not, now stop interrupting. As he drives through an intersection, an unlicensed driver, high on drugs and probably out on parole, speeds through a red light and smashes into Henry’s car, killing him instantly.
Samantha: That’s not much of a Butterfly Effect.
James: Unfortunately, the unlicensed driver out on parole has just doomed the entire world.
If Henry had waited another thirty seconds to kiss his wife, the unlicensed driver would have smashed into a different car and Henry would have arrived at the crash scene thirty seconds after it happened, done a bit of rubber-necking and continued on to work.
John Kriesfeld
Samantha: How does that save the world?
James: Two years later, Henry and his wife bring a baby girl into the world. She goes on to become the greatest physicist ever, greater than Newton and Einstein combined. She reinvigorates string theory by eradicating all the errors and explaining the inconsistencies, and is able to scientifically prove the existence of the fifth dimension. This promotes the development of worm hole theory, making space travel to distant galaxies possible, thereby enabling the overcrowded population of a ravaged Earth to escape its confines and disperse into the universe and beyond. Without her brilliant mind to lead the way, the Earth, and humanity, are doomed.
Samantha: So, in reality, the judge who allowed the unlicensed druggie back on the streets effectively doomed the world.
James: Oh, you can trace the Butterfly Effect through a large number of iterations. If the judge had chosen a different career or was sick when the cases were being handed out then the outcome would probably have been quite different. However, the point I was making is that we never know about things that don’t eventuate.
Samantha: If you don’t take out the rubbish, I certainly know about that.
James: You’re quite right, but that would lead to an entirely different effect.
Samantha: How so?
James: I believe it’s called Nagging Wife Syndrome.
Samantha: Wives only nag when husbands become lazy.
James: (Glancing at his watch). My goodness! Look at the time! I really must get back to my work. Bye!
THE ORIGIN OF OLD SAYINGS
A rolling stone gathers no moss: Meaning someone who does not settle in one place rarely prospers.
This proverb is based on the fact that mosses and lichens are slow-growing organisms that don't thrive when disturbed. A 'rolling stone' refers to a wanderer, unable to settle to any job or lifestyle and is therefore characterised as unreliable and unproductive. It was quoted in 1546 by John Heywood in his collection of English proverbs although evidence suggests that it was first used by the ancient Greeks and Romans. Unfortunately for journalists world-wide, Mick Jagger’s friendship with super model Kate Moss has not yet resulted in anything more meaningful and so the inevitable headline ‘Rolling Stone gathers Moss’ remains dormant.
A watched pot never boils: Meaning time feels longer when you’re waiting for something to happen.
This proverb is ascribed to Poor Richard which was the pseudonym used by Benjamin Franklin when publishing his popular annual almanac. Franklin was also a renowned
scientist and obviously knew that watching a pot has no effect on how long it takes to boil. Like many of the most effective proverbs, this one is poetic rather than literal.
Turning a blind eye: Meaning to ignore an undesirable (or embarrassing) incident or information. This phrase is attributed to Admiral Horatio Nelson who was blinded in one eye early in his naval career. In 1801, during the Battle of Copenhagen, he was ordered to discontinue the action against the Danes. At that time, orders were transmitted via a system of signal flags and when Nelson was made aware that the battle was being called off, he lifted his telescope to his blind eye and said, “I really do not see the signal,” and continued to press home the attack. This is also related to turning a deaf ear.
The four corners of the earth: Meaning every part of the world. This quote comes from the Bible, Revelation 7:1 ‘After this I saw four angels standing at the four corners of the earth, holding back the four winds of the earth, so that no wind would blow on the earth or on the sea or on any tree.’
ROTARY ROUNDUP 2023
Rotary finished off a great year with a flurry. December saw us selling tickets for the Mooroopna Rotary Club’s car raffle at IGA and thanks to all those that succumbed to our super sales team. This year we broke all records and it’s time someone in our town won. As it was drawn on Near Year’s Eve, the results will already be known by the time this Bulletin is on the shelves. Fingers crossed.
Our club has decided to partner up with the Container Deposit Scheme (CDS) to raise funds for our community by collecting cans, plastic drink bottles and beer bottles at our Rotary Shed on the first Sunday of each month between 10am and 12. The response from people has been exceptional. So far, we have raised close to $300, just in December, that’s more than 3000 items less that goes into land
fill. A lot of people save them up for their kids and grandkids, and that’s great, but you can spend a lot of time queuing up at Foott’s in Shepparton just for a few dollars. By donating them to Rotary, you know that every dollar goes back into our community. Hopefully the January effort will surpass that total with Christmas and the New Year Celebrations plus Dairy week. Remember it’s the first Sunday of the month at the Rotary shed, between 10am and 12. Drive in, drop off and go. The next one is on February 4.
The Flavorite Christmas party for their staff saw our club cater for over 300 people with a B/B/Q on December 7. It’s fantastic to see companies having faith in our town and expanding rapidly, providing many job opportunities for Tatura. We must be the
fastest growing town in Victoria. Our Rotary exchange student is now back, so it will be exciting to catch up with her and hear of her experiences.
We finished the year with our Christmas party at Murchison Wines. Our thanks go to Guido and Sandra for a lovely time. We look forward to 2024 being a great year. The big project in 2024 will be the unveiling of the new exercise equipment to be installed near Bartlett Lake. Many thanks once again for your support of Rotary over the past year, without your help we cannot provide the things we do.
Happy New Year.
- Bill Purcell, Media Director
student learning outcomes to exceed targets in numeracy and literacy and results at the conclusion of the 2023 year are commendable showing a commitment of the school not only to providing resources but also effective teaching methodologies and support to help students excel academically.
dedicated spaces for STEM, Kids
kitchen, performing arts music and even therapy animals indicating a diverse and holistic approach to education. These facilities will enhance a student’s practical learning experiences and provide them with a wellrounded education. Additionally, learning hubs allow for creativity and critical thinking skills. The school continues to aim for high
The school’s engaging environment for all students extends to the completion of an outdoor sensory learning play area in the last week of term 4 with musical instruments encouraging creativity and deeper appreciation for music while enjoying the fresh air and open space. Local Tatura landscaping and gardening contractor Peter Kennedy bringing a wealth of experience and expertise to ensure the project’s success with a thoughtful approach to its design in creating an engaging outdoor learning environment for the students.
It’s fantastic to see a collective effort of our local Tatura businesses aiming at providing an exceptional educational experience where students can continue to thrive.
- Jean Varty, Principal
Rotary Christmas Party Selling Raffle Tickets
ARDMONA PRIMARY SCHOOL
Ardmona Primary School is off to another great start for the 2024 year with half a million-building upgrade completed including inclusive learning spaces transforming the student learning environment. These inclusive learning spaces are crucial for ensuring that every child feels comfortable and supported with
Rui, the Therapy Dog
1. How many continents are there?
a. Six
b. Seven
c. Eight
d. Nine
2. According to the Chinese zodiac, 2024 will the year of which animal?
a. Tiger
b. Monkey
c. Dragon
d. Ox
3. The oak wedding anniversary celebrates how many years?
4. What does a numismatist collect?
a. Silver Objects
b. Number plates
c. Maps
d. Coins
5. What is the capital city of Colombia?
a. Bogota
b. Santiago
c. Quito
d. Lima
6. Which country has the world’s cleanest air?
a. Norway
b. Egypt
•
•
•
•
•
c. Australia
d. Germany
7. Which of these is a collective noun for cats?
a. Glaring
b. Swipe
c. Scurry
d. Skulk
8. How many time zones are there in the world?
a. 12
b. 18
c. 24
d. 36
9. How many active volcanoes are there in Australia?
a. 0.
b. 1
c. 3
d. 7.
10. Who was the first person to circumnavigate Australia?
a. Dirck Hartog
b. James Cook
c. Matthew Flinders
d. Willem Jantszoon
TOTAL PEST CONTROL
TATURA LIBRARY NEWS
IDENTIFYING THE SOUNDS OF NATURE
Do you want to know if that kookaburra is laughing at you or something else? Ever wondered what the birds are talking about on your morning walk? Experience more by learning how to identify the sounds of nature around you. The Tatura Library will welcome author and nature sound recordist Andrew Skeoch on Thursday, February 8, at 12.30pm to talk about his book Deep Listening to Nature and discuss how to identify species by call and interpret their communications.
TENNIS CLUB COMMUNITY SURVEY
Tatura is a growing community, and the Tatura Lawn Tennis Club wants to grow with the community and embrace the needs of the growing town.
The club is working with Tennis Victoria, with support from Greater Shepparton City Council, to develop a Strategic Plan to lead it forward over the next 5 – 10 years.
As part of this process, the club is undertaking a survey of community members to get opinions and feedback about what the club is doing well, areas for improvement, challenges, and what you would like to see going forward.
The survey is open in January and most of February. Scan the QR code below with your phone to take the survey:
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
Andrew is an educator, environmental thinker and one of Australia's best-known nature sound recordists. Over the last thirty years, he has documented the sounds of wild environments around the planet, and through his label 'Listening Earth', published over one hundred recordings featuring habitats from most continents.
His recordings are heard in the audio installation at Sydney Wildlife World, and feature in the currently touring Australian Geographic / Northern Pictures immersive installation 'Our Country'. They have contributed to feature films, including Peter Gabriel's soundtrack to Phillip Noyce's 'Rabbit Proof Fence', Disney's 2016 remake of 'The Jungle Book', and the upcoming 'Force of Nature' with Eric Bana. Andrew Skeoch is an experienced public speaker, having given presentations to a range of audiences and has delivered radio features, keynote addresses and a TEDx talk. Andrew is President of the Australian Wildlife Sound Recoding Group, a premier association of nature field recordists that encourages skills and passion in a new generation of enthusiasts.
During his visit, Andrew will guide you into hearing the languages of nature, developing your auditory awareness, identifying species by ear and recognising behaviours and repertoire. Andrew’s presentations are accompanied by vibrant recordings and spectrogram analysis that show the beauty of birdsong. You’ll hear the environment around you in an entirely new way.
If you would like to meet Andrew, to hear about his experiences both writing his book and recording the sounds of nature, then join us at the Tatura Library on Thursday, February 8 at 12.30pm. Please contact Goulburn Valley Libraries on 1300 374 765 or email tatura@ gvlibraries.com.au to let us know you will be attending. Copies of his book Deep Listening to Nature will be available to buy at the event.
- Bronwyn Cole, Program Co-ordinator, Goulburn Valley Libraries
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.
Jan 28 Rev B Spencer, Murchison
Feb 4 Joan McRae, Colbinabbin
Feb 11 Rev B Spencer, Rushworth Communion
Feb 18 Rev B Spencer, Tatura
Feb 28 Rev B Spencer, 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
0–2. Struggle Street. Don’t feel too bad. In order for people to be mediocre, somebody has to be worse than that and I’m sorry to say that’s you.
3-5. Bland Street. The majority of the population fall into this category, so you are now officially part of the mob, the faceless crowd. It’s interesting that we also call a large group of sheep a mob.
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.” You deserve a pat on the back for rising above the faceless riff-raff.
8-9. Smarty Pants. An excellent result because there were a couple of tricky questions this month although, if you’re being completely honest, luck probably played a part.
10. Genius. Well done!! Unfortunately, this rating doesn’t last very long, as next month you have to prove yourself all over again and we both know what your chances are of getting all ten correct again, don’t we? So, bask in your glory while you can.
