The Adviser 1815

Targeting CBD’s den of thieves

By Aaron Cordy

RETAIL theft is not new and has historically been viewed with the unfortunate moniker of a “victimless crime”. With 799 offences recorded in 2025, a decade high for retail theft in Greater Shepparton, and reports of thieves becoming more aggressive with local businesses as they brazenly steal, local businesses have had enough of being that victim.

Sick of the theft and afraid for themselves and their staff, local businesses have been calling for the Shepparton Police to tackle the issue.

Continued Page 8

Goulburn Valley property values surge past Melbourne unit prices

By Deanne Jeffers

THE property landscape across regional Victoria has reached a historic turning point.

For the first time on record, house prices in regional Victoria have edged ahead of unit prices in metropolitan Melbourne.

According to the latest data from the Real Estate Institute of Victoria (REIV) for the

March 2026 quarter, regional house values jumped 3.8 per cent to a median of $672,000.

This milestone places regional homes more than $10,000 higher than the Melbourne unit median of $659,500, marking the strongest quarterly rise for the regions since 2021.

The Goulburn and Murray Valleys are at the heart of this growth story, showcasing a

market that has transitioned from recovery into a measured expansion phase. Greater Shepparton has emerged as a top performer, ranking fourth for annual house price growth among regional municipalities with a 19.3 per cent increase, bringing its median to $575,000.

Continued Page 6

Leaders call for Dookie to be removed from Central North REZ

LESS than 2,500 signatures are needed by July 1 to have the Dookie community’s concerns about the Central North Renewable Energy Zone heard in parliament.

Following recent community meetings, local leaders have joined in the call for the State Government to remove Dookie from the Central North REZ before the draft declaration order is issued.

Member for Northern Victoria Wendy Lovell and Member for Shepparton District Kim O’Keeffe both attended recent VicGrid meetings alongside hundreds of attendees from Dookie and surrounding areas.

“Across the three sessions held, more than 500 people have attended to raise their concerns and have their questions answered,” said O’Keeffe. “In the original draft planning process these communities were excluded and now have been blindsided by this inclusion. This has led to significant uncertainty and anxiety amongst the local community.”

“When the final Victorian Transmission Plan was released in August 2025, Goulburn Valley residents were shocked to discover the reduction in size of the original Central North zone to the west of Shepparton was compensated by the creation of an entirely new section of the Central North zone to the east of Shepparton, from Pine Lodge to Glenrowan,”

Dry spell broken

said Ms Lovell.

“Farmers and other stakeholders in the eastern section were not informed on their inclusion in the zone and never had the opportunity to view draft boundaries of the zone, or the opportunity to offer comment and feedback on the land use and landscape values.”

Both local MPs have spoken in parliament supporting the Dookie community, asking the government to listen to their pleas and to remove the area from the renewable energy zone.

Ms Lovell also called on the consultation period to be extended, should the government insist on issuing a draft declaration order that includes Dookie in the zone.

“All over zones had 12 months of early consultation and a four-month window to make submissions on the draft declaration order,” she said. “Residents of Dookie deserve the same amount of time to provide their feedback.”

The Liberal and National Coalition has pledged to pause major transmission projects while a review is conducted into the Victorian Transmission Plan, if elected in November.

To sign the petition, visit: www.protectdookiegoulburnvalley.com/

LOCALS have been relieved of consistently dry weather this autumn, with approximately 6.2mm recorded on Sunday, May 17 and 12.8mm recorded by 9am on Monday, May 18, according to the Bureau of Meteorology. This brings total rainfall over the two days to 19mm.

Last year, May was notoriously parched, with the month proving to be Victoria’s driest since 2005.

While the weekend downpour has greened up local paddocks, autumn has been largely dry across the region. Total rainfall for April reached just 18mm, meaning Monday morning’s 12.8mm was nearly equivalent to the entirety of last month’s rainfall.

the renewable energy zone. Photo: Supplied

More than a place

By Veronica Jamison, CEO, Shepparton Villages

How independent is independent?

Last week in this column I talked about the importance of being ready for “the aged care journey”.

By this I meant understanding a little about the systems and processes you may need to deal with for yourself or for a loved one when the need arises. That way you can feel more confident and in control over what’s happening, and better placed to get the outcomes you want.

I said I’d also share with you some of the questions we get asked by people who come to us as the leading locally owned and operated not-for-profit aged care provider.

One of the first questions is often directed toward understanding the different types of aged care accommodation that are available. Often along the lines of this: “IfI’mmovingintoanIndependent LivingUnit(ILU),whatdoes‘independent’actually mean?WillIreceiveanysupportthere?”

Good question. The answer is yes. Independent living units are designed to offer a more manageable lifestyle, with assistance provided for maintenance and gardening, making them easier to maintain than a larger home. They also do offer access to a range of further services and activities – some will come as part of your accommodation ‘package’, while others may be optional extras that you can take if you want and leave out if you don’t. Some ILU residents will choose to be more fully independent than others.

What ‘extras’ you get may be determined in large part by what particular items (beyond the basic accommodation cost) can get funded by the government, following an aged care assessment of your individual needs.

I’ll explain more about all this next week.

Find out more: www.sheppvillages.com.au Or call:

Cultural burning in Grey Box Grassy Woodland country

A

THE Goulburn Broken Catchment Management Authority recently teamed up with Yorta Yorta Nation Aboriginal Corporation and local Devenish landholders to re-instate cultural burning practice.

Together with Yorta Yorta’s MarrinBidja Woka (Country) Bidja (Fire) team and landholders, Matt and Gen Trewin, a cultural burn was undertaken at Quandong Hill, in Grey Box Grassy Woodland

country.

Marrin-Bidja manager Michael Bourke said, “It is really important for Yorta Yorta people to be back in the landscape practicing the right fire on Country, showing great partnerships and to have cultural fire back in the landscape, as has been practiced for 80,000 years.”

The weather was perfect for burning with no breeze, a little bit of warmth and some cloud cover. It was a calm and

enjoyable experience for everyone. The skinks and insects also had time to shelter in neighbouring habitat. Cultural burning is a cultural fire practice used by First Nations people to improve the health of Country and its people, managing land, plants and animals.

If you have Grey Box Grassy Woodland

country you wish to protect, revegetate and manage, grants are available. Contact Jim Begley at the Goulburn Broken CMA on 0428 508 189. This project is funded by the Australian Government Natural Heritage Trust and delivered by the Goulburn Broken CMA, a member of the Commonwealth Regional Delivery Partners Panel.

made during the 2025 calendar year, were held on Wednesday, May 13.

Greater Shepparton City Council won the Bunnings Trade Local Government Initiative of the Year, for the Shepparton BMX Multi-Use Events Facility. The award was in recognition of the major redevelopment project, which boosts participation, safety and regional economic impact, and allows the venue to host national championships.

REVVING FOR A FABULOUS EVENT

More women are taking to the track at Historic Winton, with the 49th event set for May 30-31, 2026, at Winton Motor Raceway near Benalla.

Local competitor Holly Samson of Monegeetta will compete for the fourth time, driving a 1927 Chevrolet Tourer in the Regularity category, where drivers aim to finish as close as possible to their nominated time.

Australia’s longest running historic race meeting, Historic Winton features non stop racing of vehicles

from the 1920s to the 1980s. Tickets are available from Ticketebo, with trackside camping also offered.

Celebrate our vibrant African community with Africa Day Fest, at St Paul’s African House, 54 Poplar Ave, Shepparton, from 11am to 5pm, Saturday, May 30.

Experience the lively and energetic African music and dance, marvel at the stunning art and fashion, while you taste the delicious food from across the vast continent, right in Shepparton.

For more information, email them at bookings@ stpaulsafricanhouse.org or call 0487 601 464.

SHEPPARTON SABRES CADET CORPS OPENS

Young people in Shepparton are being encouraged to get involved in a new youth development opportunity with the launch of the Shepparton Sabres Cadet Unit.

Run by the Australian Cadet Corps, the program focuses on building confidence, leadership skills and community connection through structured activities and mentoring.

Open to young people from the age of eight, the Cadet Corps aims to support personal

growth while promoting integrity, discipline and respect. Organisers say the new unit will provide a positive, inclusive environment where young people can develop life skills, make new friends and explore future pathways in education, employment and leadership.

Find out more: facebook.com/SheppartonSabres and/or at facebook.com/AuCadets cadets.org.au

LIGHTS ON AT WANGANUI OVAL

Greater Shepparton City Council has officially opened the upgraded Wanganui Oval. The $432,000 project, delivered in partnership with AFL Victoria, has provided new 100-lux sports lighting and modern irrigation system, transforming the oval into a premier training facility for local football clubs.

The upgraded oval will serve as an overflow training venue for Goulburn Valley League clubs, including Shepparton United Football Netball Club and Shepparton Football Netball Club, helping ease demand on existing ovals across the municipality.

With the project completed earlier this year, local junior and women’s teams have already benefited from having a dedicated training base.

Goulburn Valley property values surge past Melbourne unit prices

continued from front page

At the suburb level, the results are even more striking:

• Tatura: Led the region with a massive 22.8 per cent increase in median house prices to $522,000.

• Mooroopna and Shepparton: Both recorded identical 15.5 per cent gains.

• Cobram: Rebounded sharply with a 15.6 per cent increase.

• Shepparton North: Continued its steady climb, up 10.3 per cent to $684,000.

The Goulburn-Murray corridor continues to act as a magnet for both owner-occupiers and investors. While Melbourne grapples with a cooling market, local rental demand remains

exceptionally robust.

In Shepparton, median house rents have climbed to approximately $500 per week. Perhaps most importantly for investors, vacancy rates remain pinned at a tight 1 per cent locally, which is significantly lower than the REIA 3 per cent benchmark and Melbourne’s 1.8 per cent. This scarcity of supply, combined with relative affordability, has driven increased transaction activity, particularly in the entry to mid-level price brackets.

These comprehensive insights are featured in The Adviser’s Goulburn & Murray Valley' magazine, out now.

Water for wetlands

Financial support is available to help landholders recover from the January 2026 bushfires.

landholders to install and repair streamside fencing, helping safeguard riparian zones and stabilise waterways.

In a featured report for the magazine, Chris Crouch of Opteon Group Property Valuers notes that while national housing growth has moderated, regional markets have shown remarkable resilience. Crouch highlights that while the mid-to-upper segments remain relatively subdued, the fundamentals of population growth and limited supply are placing a firm floor under local prices.

The market is currently navigating a "multispeed" phase following the May 2026 Federal Budget. Recent commentary from REA Group Analyst Luc Redman suggests that while changes to Capital Gains Tax and Negative Gearing may lead to a slight softening of prices

and a marginal increase in rents nationally, the Goulburn Valley’s supply-side constraints and lifestyle appeal continue to buffer the region against significant corrections.

PropTrack’s Home Price Index for April 2026 confirms this regional strength, showing that while Melbourne home prices fell by 0.3 per cent over the month, regional Victorian prices held flat at their peak—remaining 6.7 per cent higher than they were a year ago.

For a deep dive into these latest figures, expert commentary, and a showcase of the region's premier properties, pick up your copy of 'Great Estates of the Goulburn & Murray Valley' in today’s edition of The Adviser.

Subsidies are available for the repair or replacement of riparian fencing and other activities that support the protection and rehabilitation of priority waterways.

There’s a transformation taking place at two previously dry wetlands in the Goulburn Broken catchment.

Stream banks are particularly fragile following a fire and can be severely impacted by unmanaged livestock access.

Reedy Swamp, on the outskirts of Shepparton and Moodie Swamp, to the east, have begun receiving water for the environment.

As the water flows into the wetlands the frogs are calling, the insects are active and

While many fire‑affected streams are already showing encouraging signs of natural recovery, protecting these areas is critical to sustaining that progress. To support recovery, the Goulburn Broken CMA is working with

Benefits of water for the environment:

If your property was impacted by the January 2026 fires and you need help to repair or replace fire‑damaged riparian fencing, or manage livestock access to recovering waterways, support may be available. Contact the Goulburn Broken Catchment Management Authority on 5822 7700 to discuss eligibility and available incentives.

the wetland plants are coming to life. The water will also provide food and breeding areas for waterbirds, turtles and fish.

Get your winter snuggles at Cat Adoption Day

The January 2026 Fire Recovery Program is jointly funded by the Commonwealth and Victorian State Government under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements.

Water for the environment is water allocated and managed to improve the health of rivers, wetlands and floodplains. Its use is based on climatic conditions, water availability and ecological needs.

GREATER Shepparton City Council encourages all to find their purr-fect winter companion and give one of the many cats and kittens currently at the Shepparton Animal Shelter a loving home.

The Shelter will host a Cat Adoption Day on Saturday, May 23, from 10am to 2pm, at 125 Wanganui Road, Shepparton, giving residents a chance to meet a wide range of cats and kittens looking for homes. No appointments are necessary.

Adoption fees have been reduced to $50 for cats over 12 months of age, while kittens are $100.

With more than 60 cats currently available for adoption and a further 60 in care, adopting a shelter cat not only changes the

life of the animal, it also helps free up space at the Shelter so staff can continue to support other animals in need.

People planning to attend are encouraged to view the available cats online ahead of time via Council’s website. An online pet adoption questionnaire can also be completed prior to arrival to help save time on the day. All cats and kittens available have been vet checked, desexed, microchipped, vaccinated, and treated for worms and fleas. Attendees should bring a suitable pet carrier, which can also be purchased from the Shelter if required.

To view cats and kittens currently available for adoption, visit shepp.city/adopt

RETAIL THEFT... Operation Securus will see a dedicated team of police working daily with major and independent retailers in Shepparton’s CBD to investigate retail thieves.

From left, Acting Senior Sergeant Scott Hamilton, Inspector Cam Sanderson, Shepparton Acting Superintendent Anna Parkinson, Vice President of GSBN Jac McCarty and Senior Sergeant Jasmine Gregor.

Targeting CBD’s den of thieves

A new retail theft team named Securus has hit the streets in Shepparton to target prolific and aggressive retail thieves. The dedicated team of police are working daily with major and independent retailers to investigate and hold to account retail thieves.

“The Operation Securus team are a dedicated team of members that will be working on retail crime. The team will be responding to reports, investigating, conducting investigations, and actively patrolling the retail area within the Shepparton area,” said Shepparton Acting Superintendent Anna Parkinson.

“Our police will also be using an online forum in conjunction with the retailers to gain real-time intelligence to help us with our investigations. The operation will be targeting repeat retail crime offenders that also exhibit aggressive and violent behaviour towards the retail workers.

“As you can appreciate, this type of offending will not be tolerated, and you will be identified, and you will be held to account because everyone deserves to come to work and be safe and secure in their workplaces.

“Shepparton over the last few years has seen a substantial increase in retail crime, but more alarming over the last 12 months, it's that escalation in behaviour of those offenders that has led us to have a dedicated team to deal with this type of offending retail crimes.”

Local retailers welcome the initiative, which

has placed a greater strain on an already tough economy in which to make a living.

“Obviously, it's been an ongoing issue for some time, but the escalation in violence is becoming more prevalent. So, we're really pleased with this initiative, and to be able to work together with Victoria Police to ensure that not only our members, but the wider parts of Greater Shepparton will be looked after,” said Vice President of GSBN Jac McCarty.

“We're seeing retailers actually having to lock their doors during the day, which is completely unacceptable, and then staff members scared to come to work, so by having a visual presence, particularly in the mall and the CBD areas, we're hoping that will encourage this behaviour to decrease and give confidence to the retailers that they are being looked after.”

Police intelligence shows repeat offenders have committed more than 70 per cent of all retail thefts in Shepparton this year. It will focus initially on the Shepparton CBD before expanding to the Tatura and Mooroopna areas.

As part of the Greater Shepparton response to the issue, local business owners and managers are invited to attend an upcoming Retail Crime Forum on Thursday, May 21, at La Trobe University’s Shepparton Campus, at 210 Fryers Street, Shepparton, from 6pm. Please RSVP via the QR code.

SHEPPARTON RETAIL CRIME FORUM

As part of the Greater Shepparton response to this issue/ problem, you are invited to attend an upcoming Retail Crime Forum

is

The forum will provide opportunity for you to:

• Gain insight into current retail crime trends.

• Share your experiences and concerns.

• Learn practical strategies to better protect your business and staff.

• Strengthen connections with police, stakeholders and other local retailers. Register your attendance via QR code

Date: Thursday 21st May 2026 Time: 6pm

Location: La Trobe University (SHS Room 120) 210 Fryers Street, Shepparton

Iron women fill industry shortage

By Aaron Cordy

AUSTRALIA’S population means more freight on the road. The trouble is Australia faces a significant driver shortage by 2030 if the industry doesn’t begin to think outside the cab.

Australia’s road freight demand is expected to grow by 80 per cent by 2030, while the industry is already short of more than 28,000 truck drivers. This shortage is projected to worsen as the ageing workforce approaches retirement and fewer younger people enter the profession. Women remain significantly underrepresented in truck driving roles, making up just 4.4 per cent of truck drivers.

Recognising the potential solution to the problem, WomenCAN Australia (WC), Wodonga TAFE (WT), Volvo Trucks Australia (VT), and Transport Women Australia Limited (TWA) have collaborated to form the Iron Women Program. A comprehensive training program designed to support women with no prior transport experience in becoming jobready heavy vehicle operators.

As part of the Iron Women Program, participants and representatives from WC, WT VTA, and TWA toured FOOTT’s Shepparton operation earlier this month, before the women spent a week in the dedicated Iron Women

Volvo truck in pairs and with their DECA trainer, hitting the roads across the GV to gain the experience needed before sitting their licensing tests.

“The role of supportive employers like FOOTT in Iron Women can’t be understated. They allow women in the program to understand more about the industry and the available pathways available to them,” said WomenCAN Australia CEO Heather Saunders.

FOOTT CEO Andrew Yeoland said the program provided practical exposure for participants considering operational roles.

“It was good to have the group on site and give them a look at how the operation runs,” said Mr Yeoland.

“Our industry is always looking for capable people, and programs like this help give participants a better understanding of the work before they step into it.”

The Iron Women program supports women gaining a truck licence, connecting with real job opportunities and receiving ongoing mentoring and industry support to secure transport careers and build a stronger, more sustainable driver pipeline.

Opening up the housing market with more affordable homes

We’re opening doors with more homes planned in the places you want to live, close to trains, trams and services.

Find out about reduced stamp duty on off-the-plan apartments and townhouses and the $10,000 First Home Owner Grant for home buyers who are buying or building a new home.

Visit vic.gov.au/openingdoors

APPEAL FOR ASSISTANCE

Shepparton Sexual Offences and Child Abuse Investigation Team detectives are appealing for public assistance following two sexual assaults in Toolamba last year.

Investigators have been told two teenage girls were sexually assaulted by an unknown male at a campground on Broons Beach on January 25 and 26, 2025.

Despite thoroughly investigating the matter and exhausting several avenues of enquiry, detectives are yet to identify the male offender. Investigators have released an image of the man they believe may be able to assist with their enquiries.

Anyone with information that could assist police in identifying the man is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report online at www. crimestoppersvic.com.au.

Greater Shepparton City Council is calling for continued, locally tailored fruit fly management in the Goulburn Murray Valley (GMV), following the release of a new independent report.

The analysis, commissioned by Council and prepared by internationally recognised fruit fly expert Andrew Jessup, confirms that the GMV faces high risk from Queensland Fruit Fly (QFly) and cannot rely on management approaches used in other parts of Australia.

The report stated that QFly management was not a one-size-fits-all scenario, with methods operating in Queensland and New South Wales unsuitable when replicated in the GMV.

Mayor, Councillor Shane Sali, said the findings clearly support Council’s long-held position that fruit fly management in the GMV must be ongoing and region-specific.

“Local conditions demand local solutions. This independent report confirms what Council, growers and the community have been saying for years – the Goulburn Murray Valley is unique, and a one-size-fits-all approach simply will not work here,” he said.

“Our region is one of Australia’s most productive horticultural areas. The consequences of under-resourcing fruit fly management will have a serious impact on jobs, markets, and the strength of our regional economy.”

The report reviewed fruit fly management across Australia, comparing growing regions and examining how climate, geography and population density affect fruit fly risk. The

GMV was identified as one of Australia’s must vulnerable horticultural regions, with key risk factors including:

• Large and dispersed orchards

• A close mix of residential areas and fruit production

• High proportions of highly susceptible crops

• Harvest times that coincide with peak fruit fly activities

• High levels of freight and through-traffic.

The report warned that without coordinated and properly funded management, QFly populations are expected to surge, increasing pressure on growers, home gardeners and the wider regional economy.

The GMV Fruit Fly Program incorporates the municipal areas of Greater Shepparton, Moira Shire, Campaspe Shire, and Strathbogie Shire Councils. Ahead of the 2025/26 financial year, the partnering councils, alongside Fruit Growers Victoria and other industry bodies, were advocating for $1M per annum to roll out a high input area wide management program across the GMV.

Council received $469,000 in the 2025/26 financial year to continue vital efforts in managing QFly. The Victorian Government had advised that they will provide funding for the 2026/27 financial year, however, the amount is yet to be confirmed.

Cr Sali said the risk of this funding being further reduced is a significant concern.

“The risk is not only for our region’s horticulture industry; it extends to backyard fruit and vegetable trees which we know there

MAY UPDATE

Tailored fruit fly management for Goulburn Murray Valley REGIONAL

The importance of post harvest hygiene

Queensland Fruit Fly (QFF) hygiene strategies focus the collection and susceptible fruit. or vines after harvest the ground should picked up and destroyed and larvae that may mature to the pupa leave these fruit ground as fruit rots allowed to happen impossible to manage approved for ground against pupae are and not always 100

There is no pesticide ground application

Fruit left on trees harvest is especially

the importance of area-wide management for fruit fly. Photo: Supplied

are many across the region.

Following harvest QFF populations for a week or two another site with These QFF are desperate as most host fruit during harvest. Any target for infestation.

“The Goulburn Murray Valley’s horticultural output is more than $1.6 billion each year. Without structured management this would be significantly compromised.

“Fruit fly doesn’t stop at farm boundaries. Without a coordinated approach, the burden on individual growers becomes unsustainable.” Council continues to advocate to ensure that the important work of the program and the ongoing community education can continue. To access the independent analysis, go to https://shepp.city/qffstrat

If this fruit become remains on site, effectively, QFF that will fi nd evergreen refuge in over the next nearby crop overwinters as adult next season’s QFF

Explosion of populations

If for example, 10,000 produced from a trees and active were not undertaken, possible for over adult QFF to emerge er a month. As the last fruiting plants onset of winter, adult refuge in surrounding foliage and survive percent of the QFF (60,000 in this example) each female may eggs in its lifetime ies would cause in the coming season. spring, the number landscape ready a population explosion.

Summary

Most of the Goulburn Murray Valley’s commercial horticulture is harvested over the next couple of months. Autumn is often a time of increased Queensland fruit fly (Qfly) population due to proliferation of ripening and ripe fruit in commercial orchards and home gardens.

These crops are especially prone to attack by Qfly. At the same time Qfly is moving away from the protection of fruitful refuges in urban areas of the GMV to the more attractive commercial orchards surrounding many GMV towns and villages. As harvest continues Qfly moves further out into outlying orchards following a pathway of ripening fruit. This migration creates an added cost of production to reduce Qfly numbers for growers.

Removal of fruit (or the whole plant if it is not wanted) now is an important measure in reducing future fruit fly problems – especially in urban and peri-urban areas that are close to commercial orchards.

Current Qfly Hot Spots

This program has hundreds of surveillance traps strategically located throughout the GMV region. These traps were checked weekly between November 2025 and May 2026 and Qfly hot spots have been identified and communicated to the community, industry and government. Hot spot sites have been visited by Field Officers and support

offered to landholders. Trapping data has indicated that Qfly numbers are higher in areas where home gardens are located close to commercial horticulture. Conversely, Qfly numbers are lower in traps that are situated near commercial growing areas remotely located away from urban home gardens and public land corridors.

LEMNOS

MOOROOPNA

KAARIMBA

MERRIGUM

ARDMONA

COBRAM

COOMBOONA

Weather

INVERGORDON

ORRVALE

SHEPPARTON

TATURA

GUNBOWER

NAGAMBIE

YARRAWONGA

The Bureau of Meteorology forecasts higher maximum temperatures during May and average minimum temperatures in May 2026. Rainfall is likely to be less than average (only a 25% to 30% chance of exceeding the average of 10mm to 25mm for March). Daily minima will impact adversely on Qfly survival, especially if the insect is

at an immature stage (i.e. egg, larva or pupa) and is exposed to these temperatures and durations. Qfly adults are likely to have found warm refuges somewhere on the landscape by this time and may overwinter there if not killed off or controlled by predators, subsequent exposure to cold or wet weather or by strategic baiting.

Currently sunset temperatures are not low enough to stop Qfly from mating, so new eggs will be laid into any available fruit. This is an especially dangerous time for commercial harvests currently occurring.

Destroying infested

It is essential to pick fruit that is not wanted before larvae can pupate in the ground. containing eggs destroyed by:

•Maceration of fruit mulcher)

•Solarise fruit by plastic bags, seal a week

•Freeze fruit until

•Microwave fruit

(depending on

•Run fruit eating up fallen fruit — and guinea fowl scratch out QFF from the soil.

For more information collect an information Council’s Customer Funded by the

Fruit Fly Regional

Seven ways Australian Business is shifting

Counts of Australian businesses 2024–25 financial year

1. Australia tops 2.7M businesses Australia now has 2,729,648 businesses, after business numbers increased by 2.5 per cent, or 66,650, over the year.

2. More Australians taking the plunge A total of 437,150 new businesses were created during the year, while 370,500 closed, with both figures higher than in 2023–24.

3. Western Australia leads growth Western Australia saw the fastest rise in business numbers, up 4.3 per cent, or 10,877 businesses. Queensland followed with growth of 2.7 per cent, adding 13,579 businesses.

4. Businesses move north Queensland attracted more relocating businesses than any other state or territory, with 1,250 businesses shifting their operations there from elsewhere.

5. Health care records the strongest gains

Business numbers rose the most in: Health Care and Social Assistance, up 6.6 per cent Transport, Postal and Warehousing, up 5.1 per cent.

6. Construction continues to surge The construction sector recorded 76,414 new businesses, the largest number of new entrants of any industry.

7. Ongoing decline in partnerships Partnership numbers have not increased in any year since 2002, when business types were first included in the data. In 2024–25, partnership businesses fell by 4.3 per cent, a drop of 9,226.

ALTHOUGH we would all relish up to the minute data, the logistics of compiling it take considerable time and effort. Still, as we mark this year’s Australian Made Week from May 18 to 24 by consciously swapping imported goods for those that are locally made, grown or processed, it is

an ideal moment to take a closer look at seven interesting facts about the nature of Australian business. These figures were compiled by the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) and released in August 2025, reflecting the scale and diversity of our innovative and industrious nation.

For context: Greater Shepparton

As of 2026 Greater Shepparton has 8,311 GST registered businesses across a diverse industry landscape, with the largest share (21 per cent) centred in agriculture, forestry and the fishing industry, followed closely by construction.

Iconic logo celebrating 40 years of quality and trust

RECOGNISED by 99 per cent of Australians, influencing 89 per cent to preferentially buy products carrying it, and marking its 40year anniversary this year, the green and gold Australian Made logo stands as one of the nation’s most trusted and recognisable country of origin symbols ever to hop across our economic landscape.

Since its launch in 1986, the iconic kangaroo has done far more than sit quietly on packaging, giving Australian producers, makers, processors and manufacturers a clear edge in an increasingly competitive market by offering consumers an unmistakable marker of authenticity that speaks directly to a strong preference for local jobs, Australian knowhow and trusted quality.

Commissioned by the Australian Government, designed by Melbourne graphic designer Ken Cato and famously launched by Prime Minister Bob Hawke, the logo gave shoppers a simple way to identify genuinely Australian made goods at a time when global competition was rapidly intensifying.

As the economy has shifted, so too has the relevance of the logo, which surged anew during COVID when fragile supply chains and empty shelves sharpened the focus on buying local, a mindset that looks set only to deepen as competitive pressures grow.

So, here’s to the Australian Made logo at 40 — a small but mighty symbol that does more than influence choice but rather delivers Australia industry a thumping stamp of confidence.

CELEBRATING 40 YEARS...The iconic Australian Made logo stands as one of the nation’s most trusted and recognisable symbols, providing shoppers with  a simple way  to  identify  genuinely Australian made goods.  Photo: Supplied

Buying Australian means you’re creating local jobs, boosting the economy, and supporting your fellow Aussies in the Goulburn and Murray Valley and beyond… please support Aussie makers and growers by purchasing locally made products!

A new era for Furphy Strengthening Australian manufacturing through regional capability

SEVERAL businesses within the J. Furphy & Sons organisation have recently come together under a new unified Furphy brand and identity — marking an exciting new chapter in one of Australia’s most recognised manufacturing and engineering families.

While the branding may be new, the foundations remain the same: generations of Australian manufacturing expertise, regional commitment and industry-leading capability.

The new Furphy identity brings together specialist operations across:

• Galvanising

• Blast and paint

• Stainless tanks and vessels

• Fabrication

Together, these capabilities provide customers with a stronger, more connected end-to-end manufacturing and engineering solution — backed by the scale, experience, and support of a united national group.

With operations strategically located throughout regional Australia, Furphy continues to invest in local people, skilled jobs, apprenticeships and regional suppliers, helping strengthen Australian manufacturing and support the communities in which we operate.

For generations, the Furphy name has been associated with quality, reliability, innovation and service. This next

evolution builds on that proud heritage while positioning the group for future growth and continued industry leadership.

By aligning under one unified brand, Furphy is enhancing collaboration across its businesses, strengthening customer service capabilities, and delivering greater value through shared expertise and integrated solutions.

As Australian industry continues to evolve, Furphy remains committed to setting the benchmark in quality manufacturing, engineering excellence, customer support and innovation.

Better Steel Products, For a Brighter Tomorrow. Good…Better…Best..

Pental forging new future amidst growth & investment

KNOWN fo r producing some of Australia’s most trusted household chemical brands, Pental Cleaning Products is a significant player in its sector and a strong example of a progressive, growthfocused Australian manufacturer.

Si nce joining the DuluxGroup portfolio in November 2023, Pental has undertaken a substantial manufacturing growth and investment program, with approximately $6.5 million invested to date in highspeed filling lines, increased batching capacity and enhanced automation, alongside targeted investment in the Finished Goods warehouse. The installation of new pallet racking has significantly increased onsite storage capacity to 7,600 pallets, strengthening operational efficiency and supporting future growth.

R eflecting confidence, capability and a long-term commitment to sustainable local production, Pental is building on its established strengths. With a welldeveloped manufacturing footprint across detergent liquids, bleach, bar soap and firelighters, this investment has acted as a catalyst for further expansion.

T hat momentum has been strengthened through P ental’s i ntegration into the

Selleys business unit, a well-known, highquality brand within the Dulux portfolio. As a result, additional trusted brands — including Selleys Complete Clean, Cabot’s cleaning and care range and SteelKleen — are now being produced locally in Shepparton.

T he results of this investment are already evident, with production output at the White King plant doubled for gels, sprays and cleaners. Growth is also occurring across the liquid detergents division, spanning laundry, dishwashing and multipurpose products.

I n addition, Country Life bar soap is gaining renewed momentum through export opportunities into China, with production for these contracts having already commenced from March.

Fur ther enhancements to site capability include a new batching plant extension and two fully automated robotic palletising stations, all of which are currently in commissioning.

The future presents significant opportunity for Pental, now supported by major partners Dulux and Selleys, as it continues to operate and invest locally at its Drummond Road facility in Shepparton.

FORGING AHEAD... Since joining the DuluxGroup portfolio in November 2023, Pental Cleaning Products has embarked on a substantial manufacturing growth and investment program, building on its strengths to significantly lift output through highspeed filling lines, increased batching capacity and enhanced automation,

Proud to be Pental...

and proud to be manufacturing products in Shepparton

Trusted by families for generations

These Pental brands are manufactured and packed by our team at our Shepparton facility

Countdown to the 2026 Census

CENSUS night is on Tuesday, August 11, 2026. The Census is the largest collection of data undertaken by the Australia Bureau of Statistics (ABS).

Emily Walter, Census National Spokesperson, said, “With less than 100 days until the 2026 Census, it’s a good time to remind people why every answer matters.

“The Census provides some of the country’s most valuable statistics. It’s a snapshot of who we are and how we are changing, informing what we need now and into the future.”

Census data informs planning for schools, healthcare, transport and infrastructure. It is also used to help plan local services for individuals, families and communities.

“An example of the importance of Census data can be seen in how Playgroup Australia uses it to understand emerging community needs and modern Australian families,” Ms Walter said.

“Census data helps them plan the timing and

locations of playgroups to accommodate working parents, while also identifying gaps in their network.

“Playgroups have become more vital than ever for providing trusted, community-based spaces that support early childhood development, social connection and parental wellbeing.”

The ABS has been preparing to ensure everyone in Australia can take part in the Census.

“The ABS will provide a range of ways for the public to complete the Census this year, including online or via a paper form,” said Ms Walters.

“Additional support will also be available for people who need it, including Census field staff, phone and online services, information hubs in public spaces and translated material.”

The Census is held every five years and is compulsory. Everyone in Australia on Census night must be included on a Census form, including visitors and visa holders.

For more information, visit census.abs.gov.au

Finding pride in your postcode

By Aaron Cordy

AUSTRALIA Post has conducted research, revealing that the four-digit code sparks more pride than was first believed. With 57 per cent of Australians identify more strongly with their postcode than city (55 per cent), state (39 per cent) or nation (44 per cent).

The study examined pride, local identity, and how neighbourhood interactions make people feel connected to their suburb or town, with 75 per cent of people surveyed having a level of pride in their suburb/town.

State pride is strongest among Banana Benders and

Sandgropers. 50 per cent of Queenslanders say their state is their strongest identity marker, above the national average of 39 per cent. City pride resonates more with Victorians (63 per cent) and South Australians (67 per cent). Across the remaining states and territories, people are more likely to identify first with their postcode/suburb.

Australia Post Executive General Manager Retail, Brand & Marketing, Josh Bannister, said postcodes have taken on meaning far beyond their original purpose.

“Postcodes may have started as a practical tool for delivering mail, but today they represent something

far more personal, for many their postcode represents identity, belonging and community,” said Mr Bannister. Suburb connection is driven primarily by human interactions, with the strongest sense of connection coming from chatting with neighbours. The survey revealed 71 per cent of Australians interact with their neighbours on a regular basis, averaging about 13 days per month, with older Australians leading the way. It is estimated that 80 per cent of people think their neighbours are friendly.

So, what do locals think? Do you find more pride in living in Australia, Victoria, Greater Shepparton or your town with its own unique postcode?

Harvesting opportunity through homegrown kiwifruit

REDLAND is expanding its fruit growing and packing operations across Australia, with a focus on lifting production, improving efficiency and building new market opportunities.

Speaking at the Mooroopna facility, Redland’s Jordan Bain said a key development for the business is the introduction of Dori gold kiwi fruit, with the first commercial crop produced this year. Redland is the exclusive licensed marketer of the variety in Australia, which until now has been traditionally importdependent, with no commercial production compared to New Zealand and other major global suppliers.

The move marks a diversification into new fruit categories, alongside its existing citrus, grapes, apple and pear production.

“In the next five or six years, the volume will increase over a greater length of time,” he said.

Alongside new crops, Redland continues to rework and replant apple and pear orchards in the Goulburn Valley that are producing lower yields or inconsistent quality or colour, with a rich colour being particularly favourable in Asian markets.

“We identified blocks with resources that are not performing well. We put a plan in place to redevelop,” Jordan explained.

The business is also looking to expand export opportunities, with China identified as a long-term potential market for its Sassy and Dazzle apples, and Vietnam emerging as a growing opportunity that is yet to have market access for Australian fruit exports. These markets sit alongside existing domestic supply commitments across Redland’s national operations.

Automation and technology continue to play an increasing role in packing and sorting fruit, with camera systems and robotics used to assess quality and direct fruit through packing lines.

Bain said efficiency gains are increasingly important as production costs rise across the industry, placing pressure on margins for growers.

“Apple and pears are in that space where things are outside of your control. If the market doesn’t hold, then it comes off the bottom line.”

He said despite this, fruit growers have continued to show excellent resilience and determination to improve models for the best results. Largely this is achieved through technology and operational improvements to offset pressures, while acknowledging most available efficiency measures are already being actively pursued across the sector.

Proudly local, from paddock to port

By Linda Nieuwenhuizen, Committee for Greater Shepparton CEO

THE Greater Shepparton, Moira and Campaspe region is home to iconic Australian brands and world leading companies and among the top three regional food manufacturing clusters in Australia.

This region can boast:

• Australia’s largest:

» Oilseed crushing facility

» UHT milk producer

» Fruit processor

» Manufacturer of bar soap, liquid bleach and firelighter cubes

» Cut flower producer

» Cream cheese processor

» Regional concentration of dairy processing – processing around 30 per cent of the national milk pool while producing around 20 per cent of raw product

» Regional concentration of glasshouse producers of fresh tomatoes, capsicum and cucumber

• A ustralia’s largest and only tinned tomato processors

• O ne of only two Australian based canned soup manufacturers and frozen

and canned vegetable processors.

The region’s concentration of food and grocery manufacturing is complemented by a significant allied manufacturing sectors, including 10 per cent of Australia’s metal fabrication businesses and a nationally significant specialist food-grade stainless and dairy process equipment cluster.

This integrated supply chain, from paddock to processing plant to port, ensures local produce reaches markets not only across Australia, but internationally.

The Committee for Greater Shepparton (C4GS) plays a critical role in enabling this growth.

Bringing together more than 100 businesses and organisations, C4GS drives advocacy, partnerships and strategic collaboration to strengthen the regional economy.

Together, local industry and C4GS are shaping a future where Sheppartonmade products continue to grow in value and reach—demonstrating how regional Australia can design, build and deliver world-class goods proudly stamped “Australian Made.”

Rising inflation in Australia – one of the highest in the OECD

INFLATION rising, interest rates and the relentless rise in the cost of living — and the spin goes on and on.

A mid the noise, the numbers and the stress, you may be wondering why our nation appears to be hit harder by higher inflation and interest rates than other economies of a similar size, particularly when Australia is compared with the G7 nations — the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Japan, Germany, France and Italy — where the contrast becomes clearer.

A c ombination of factors, including a postpandemic rebound in demand, supply chain disruptions, monetary policy

settings and energy price shocks linked to geopolitical conflict, means global inflation continues to affect countries around the world in 2026 and Australia has been no exception.

Interest rates are often described as the “price of money” and are set by the central bank, while inflation refers to the rate at which the prices of goods and services rise over time, which reduces purchasing power and pushes up the cost of living.

A lthough inflation has eased from the extreme highs seen after the COVID19 pandemic, many nations are still working to return to stable levels, and progress has been uneven across economies.

Countries such as France and Canada are currently recording inflation rates of around 2 to 3 per cent, while Australia’s inflation rate remains higher at about 4.6 per cent, and economists say this gap is driven by a combination of global and domestic pressures.

O ne major global driver of inflation is rising energy prices, as ongoing conflict in the Middle East has pushed up oil and fuel costs, making transport and production more expensive worldwide, while supply chain disruptions and strong consumer demand have also added to higher prices.

A ustralia faces additional challenges, including a housing shortage and rising

rents, and when these are combined with strong spending across the economy, inflation has proven more persistent here than in many other G7 economies.

D espite the complexity, the unpredictability and levers pulled by the government and central bank to bring inflation down, the fact remains that inflation impacts families and businesses the most through rises in fuel, electricity and housing costs, and all this while experts warn global uncertainty and future energy shocks could keep prices elevated for some time yet.

BUY

Quality, painted the Australian way

WHEN you choose Australian owned and Australian made, you are not only investing in local jobs and economic resilience, but in a standard the global market has come to respect.

As the nation’s largest 100 per cent family owned and operated paint manufacturer, Haymes Paints stands as a testament not only to home grown entrepreneurial ingenuity, but as a market leader that has remained firmly anchored to the values of quality on which it was built.

Founded in Ballarat in 1935 by Henry Haymes, the company has grown from a small regional operation into a national brand. Now led by the third generation of the Haymes family, Haymes Paints remains the only major paint brand that is wholly Australian owned and Australian made.

Employing more than 400 people across its operations, and supporting a nationwide network of Haymes Paint shops, PaintRight stores and more than 350 independent stockists, the company is a significant employer and contributor

to local economies, particularly in regional areas.

Harnessing the experience, ethos and know-how of a business journey that began 90 years ago, Haymes Paints’ long term commitment to Australian manufacturing continues to unfold.

The company’s recent multimilliondollar investment in its state-of-the-art Ballarat manufacturing facility reflects this focus. By expanding production capabilities, Haymes Paints is not only strengthening local expertise, but also creating jobs and supporting the future of regional industry.

Building a reputation over decades for producing high-performance products designed specifically for Australian conditions, quality remains central to the brand’s success. Local manufacturing enables greater control, innovation and consistency — factors that are highly valued by homeowners, tradespeople and commercial customers alike.

Beyond manufacturing, the company is also committed to community

connection, actively supporting local paint specialists, hardware stores and professional painters, many of them family-owned businesses.

An Australian, home-grown success story, Haymes Paints continues to stand out in a competitive market while maintaining its strong local focus. And with outlets such as Shepparton’s own

Haymes Paints store on Fryers Street, why not drop-in and see Karl and the team, next time you need quality paint — and expert advice you can trust. Call in to your local Haymes Paint shop in Shepparton and meet Karl and his amazing team at 177 Fryers St, Shepparton or phone (03) 5821 1899.

#buylocal

#buylocal

“The best food is home grown not imported. Support our growers, manufacturers and your local job” Our region leads when it comes to producing and manufacturing local goods and services. Back our growers factories, and jobs by shopping locally and buying Australian made.

Jamestrong Drives Australian Made Momentum from Kyabram

OVER the years, Jamestrong has backed Australian manufacturing with significant investment, including $13 million in a highcare infant formula can facility in Kyabram and a broader $52 million program across Australia and New Zealand.

J amestrong CEO Alex Commins said the company is one of many local businesses committed to manufacturing in the region, helping position the Goulburn Valley as a national leader in advanced manufacturing. He said the Kyabram facility plays a vital role in supporting Australia’s food and beverage supply chain, producing high-quality steel packaging for both domestic and export markets, and highlighting the importance of keeping critical manufacturing

capability in Australia.

I n an era marked by global supply disruptions and growing demand for trusted, locally produced goods, Australian-made manufacturing has taken on renewed significance. Facilities like Jamestrong Kyabram not only strengthen supply chain resilience but also ensure consistent quality, sustainability, and compliance with Australia’s high production standards.

B eyond the factory floor, the impact is deeply local. Investment in Kyabram supports skilled jobs, drives regional economic activity, and reinforces the Goulburn Valley’s reputation as an industrial hub with national reach. It also reflects a broader shift toward valuing

sovereign capability - producing essential goods closer to home rather than relying on overseas supply.

A s consumers increasingly seek out the Australian Made label, businesses that invest locally are helping to shape

a more secure and self-reliant future. In this context, Jamestrong’s long-term commitment highlights how regional manufacturing can lead the nation - with the Goulburn Valley firmly at the forefront.

Birrell MP slams the Federal budget

WITH the Federal Government releasing the budget last week, debate, criticism and commentary from all sides have erupted about Australia’s economic future.

Federal Member for Nicholls Sam Birrell says families, farmers and small businesses will be impacted by Labor’s broken promises on tax which betrays the trust of Australians and will see regional Australians pay more.

“This is a Budget of broken promises, higher taxes, more debt, lower living standards and fewer homes

for Australians,” said Mr Birrell.

“The Albanese Government’s spending is still out of control, and they are raising taxes and cutting from regions to fund it.”

“The argument that this is about intergenerational equity is a fallacy because young Australians are going to be paying for this government’s reckless spending for most of their working lives.”

Across the Budget, regional Australians face at least $11B worth of cuts, including:

• $6.15B cut from the Inland Rail project,

• $ 4.7B cut from infrastructure spending,

• $ 103M cut from the National Water Grid,

• $ 191.6M cut from pest and disease, regional trade and drought funding for farmers

• $ 21.4M cut from regional communications funding.

The budget included funding for new rounds for Growing Regions (projects up to $15M) and Stronger Communities (smaller community projects up to $20,000).

Your packaging should take you to market with full product brand protection. Our advanced metal packaging and technical expertise will do precisely that.

Standout performers

AS of May 2026, the Australian business landscape remains sophisticated, stable and transparent, yet is increasingly challenged by rising operational costs, persistent inflation, rapid AI adoption and an uneven labour market.

While applications per role across much of the whitecollar sector are rising, critical shortages persist in construction, healthcare and specialist technology roles –

particularly in AI, cloud computing and cyber security.

S et against a backdrop of geopolitical instability, ongoing global conflicts and fragile, if not tenuous, global energy supply chains, several Australian industries are nonetheless demonstrating resilience and growth.

According to IBISWorld – a trusted, h uman verified provider of market research, analytics and industry reporting – the fastest growing Australian

Fastest Growing Industries 2026

industries by revenue this year may come as a surprise. While healthcare, mining or finance might be expected to dominate, one of the standout performers is tree nut growing, forecast to expand by 29.7 per cent in a single year, placing it among the fastest growing industries in the country by revenue growth.

FASTEST GROWING INDUSTRIES... Against an increasingly competitive, though less stable world, industry is advancing in Australia, with some  perhaps surprising  standout  performers. Photo: Supplied

Source: IBISWorld database

Locals connecting communities nationwide

THE power of community has once again shone brightly, with the teams at Hunters and Lindsay Rural rallying together for the Do It For Dolly Day fundraiser in extraordinary fashion.

Raising more than $34,000 at the time of publication, the local campaign was one of the largest nationally.

“Speak even if your voice shakes” “you are never alone” and “be kind” are key messages of the “Do It For Dolly” campaign.

Amy “Dolly” Everett was a victim of relentless bullying online and in person and sadly was just 14 when she took her own life.

Dolly’s Dream was founded to prevent the same happening to other children across Australia.

There was an overwhelming response in

the communities Hunters and Lindsay Rural serve, including sporting clubs, families, customers, suppliers, staff and individuals, all determined to stand together against bullying and support the important work of the Dolly’s Dream foundation.

Every push-up completed, donation made and message shared helped spark important conversations around kindness, resilience and mental health.

“This year’s Do It For Dolly fundraiser with Hunters and Lindsay Rural highlighted the strength we have in our regional communities and our willingness to unite behind a cause that impacts so many Australians, young and old” said Daniel O’Brien, Operations Manager at Hunters.

“Creating a safe environment and doing

what’s right, whether it be in or out of the workplace, is everybody’s responsibility and Do It For Dolly Day really brings this to the forefront of our minds.”

Lindsay Rural and Hunters are focused on “connecting communities” and are incredibly proud of leading a campaign that not only raised vital funds for the Do It For Dolly Foundation, but also inspired meaningful community connection, conversations and awareness.

DO IT FOR DOLLY... raise over $34,000 for the Dolly’s Dream foundation, making it one of the largest national campaigns against bullying. Pictured from left are General Manager of Hunters Group, Paul Serra, and Operations Manager,

prize artwork by reigning Best in Show artist, Marianne Scarvelis (pictured). Photo: Supplied

The King’s Birthday weekend will again see the Tatura Victory Hall transformed into a vibrant hub of creativity and community spirit as the Tatura Rotary Community Art Show returns, June 5-8.

TATURA ROTARY COMMUNITY

Mactier and former Best in Show winner Col Brown. Art lovers also have the opportunity to win an original work by reigning Best in Show artist Marianne Scarvelis by entering the raffle.

Addy’s Dad Paddy builds our roads

Always follow Paddy’s signs

Now established as a leading regional cultural event, the exhibition features around 400 artworks, with about 20 per cent expected to be sold, continuing its tradition of connecting artists and collectors.

Festivities begin Friday, June 5, with a gala opening night officially launched by former ABC presenter Matt Dowling.

Students from Tatura Primary School will also exhibit works, exploring the theme of things produced in Tatura.

The exhibition runs across the weekend, concluding at 2pm on Monday, with the raffle drawn at 1pm. Coffee, food and refreshments are available throughout the weekend.

Friday 5th, 7pm - 10pm Entry $25 Includes Hot Savouries

Adding to the atmosphere will be the muchloved jazz trio The 3 of Us. Featuring Rachel Howard’s smooth vocals, Wade Gregory on keyboard and Brian Matthews on saxophone, the trio will provide a lively soundtrack as guests enjoy the exhibition’s first viewing.

Victory Hall, Hogan Street, Tatura “Gourmet Café on site all weekend’’ Gala Opening Night

Among the familiar and highly regarded names on display will be Glenda Cornell, Phil

Opening night tickets are $25 at the door and include food and live entertainment.

General admission across the weekend is just $5, with children admitted free when accompanied by an adult.

Whether you’re a collector, art enthusiast or simply after a great long weekend outing, the Tatura Rotary Community Art Show offers an inspiring experience for all ages.

Saturday 6th 10am - 5pm Sunday 7th 10am - 5pm Monday 8th 10am - 2pm

RoadSafeGV Fortnightly Colouring Competition 1st Prize: Azur Beacon 65/30lm USB Light Set (Valued at $50)

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EMAIL: PHONE: AGE:

Rotary volunteers fuel major donation food relief

A MAJOR community effort from four local Rotary clubs has resulted in a $15,000 boost for Shepparton Foodshare, following catering work at the Victorian State H.O.G. Rally held in Shepparton this March.

The three-day event, hosted at the MOVE Museum, brought more than 700 Harley Davidson owners and enthusiasts to the region, with the hum of the motorcycles and a surge of visitors energising the Goulburn Valley.

Behind the scenes, a coordinated volunteer effort saw members of the Rotary Club of Shepparton South, Rotary Club of Shepparton, Rotary Club of Mooroopna, and Rotary Club of Shepparton Central provide breakfasts and dinners for attendees. Local Rotarians spent days preparing, cooking and serving meals, with all proceeds directed toward supporting local food relief.

Shepparton Foodshare Executive Officer, Dee Healey said the scale of the catering effort was substantial, describing it as “an absolutely mammoth task” for volunteers. She said the resulting donation would support operating costs such as fuel, utilities, maintenance and insurance, which are not covered by government funding for staffing.

TWO-WAY REWARD… Shepparton ACE Secondary College Year 10 students have found purpose and reward volunteering at Shepparton Villages’ Rodney Park this term. As part of their Year 10 curriculum, ACE students have helped residents paint terracotta pots and plant succulents to keep as mementos of their special connection. Pictured are Year 10 student Chloe

The contribution comes at a critical time for the organisation, which has recorded a 40 per cent increase in food distribution so far this financial year compared with the same period last year. More than 500,000 kilograms of food has already been distributed this year alone, equivalent to around one million meals.

Over the past two years, demand has continued to surge, with annual increases of around 30 per cent. In total, Shepparton Foodshare has now distributed more than 5.5M kilograms of food, or about 11M meals, to people in need across the region.

Food is provided free of charge to a wide network of emergency relief and community organisations, including schools, neighbourhood houses, faith groups, and meal programs supporting families, individuals experiencing homelessness and multicultural communities.

The Rotary-led initiative highlights the growing importance of local partnerships in sustaining food relief services, with volunteers, growers, manufacturers, retailers and community donors all contributing to meet rising need.

ACE students discover value in giving back

COMMUNITY volunteerism is the glue that binds people together. While giving time to enrich the lives of others delivers clear benefits to those receiving support, it can be just as deeply

rucial to developing personal skills, fostering empathy and building a more compassionate society, young people’s involvement in community volunteerism offers lasting value. hat value is being clearly demonstrated through the

Shepparton ACE Secondary College Year 10 Volunteering program, with students spending time with residents at Shepparton Villages’ Rodney Park this term.

E mbedded within the Year 10 curriculum, volunteerism at ACE College has students taking on a different communityfocused project each term. In Term 1, students worked within their own school community, running art sessions that combined into a large butterfly wall artwork. This term, their focus has shifted outward, supporting aged care residents through hands-on creative activities.

A ssisting residents to paint and decorate terracotta pots, students later helped them plant succulents to keep in their rooms as a lasting reminder of the shared experience. Later in the term, visits will include games, music and informal social time, recognising that companionship is just as important as practical assistance.

S upporting the project, Bunnings contributed $150, rounding out the collaboration between Shepparton ACE Secondary College and Shepparton Villages, and highlighting what’s possible when organisations, as well as individuals, come together.

Fo r Year 10 student Lauren Richards, who has her eye on studying law one day, volunteerism is a way to help others while also building skills for the future.

“ We’re building up our social skills, getting to know other people in the community and helping them,” she said.

“ I think the residents enjoy the visits. There are mostly older people here, and they probably don’t always have the opportunity to connect with young people today.”

Providing a deeper sense of care

THE Goulburn Valley Quilters have been designing and making quilts for GV Health dialysis patients for 18 years.

E ach handmade quilt offers warmth, colour and comfort to patients and their families during what can often be a time of uncertainty, discomfort and distress. Dialysis treatment may be required up to three times a week and can leave patients feeling cold and exhausted.

GV Quilter’s coordinator, Gael Thompson, said the quilts provide a deeper sense of care in what can otherwise feel like a very clinical environment.

“It’s about being able to provide comfort to patients whilst they’re receiving their treatment.”

T he Goulburn Valley Quilters donate approximately 60 quilts each year. Dialysis patients choose their quilt at the beginning of their dialysis journey and the quilt remains theirs throughout their treatment and beyond.

“Part of our group’s charter is that we have a community focus.

We love to help people in our community and giving our quilts to patients in dialysis is very worthwhile.”

GV Health would like to thank the incredible volunteers who give their time, care and energy to support our patients, staff and community.

Your compassion and commitment make GV Health a more connected, caring place.

A DEEPER SENSE OF CARE…Goulburn Valley Quilters design and handmake quilts for GV dialysis patients, bringing warmth, colour and comfort during what can be a challenging and uncertain time. Pictured is GV Quilters coordinator Gael Thompson, with fine examples of the group’s superbly crafted quilts. Photo: supplied

familycare.net.au/volunteers

FamilyCare would like to thank our volunteers who willingly give their time and skills to support our staff and clients.

This allows FamilyCare to continue to work with individuals, families and communities to increase wellbeing, build strengths and encourage optimism in order to fulfil our vision of strong families and communities.

Our volunteers at FamilyCare engage in meaningful roles, where they can see their contribution makes a real difference to those involved. Our staff and clients value the many contributions made by our volunteers and enjoy building a relationship with them, whilst seeing them feel part of our team.

Volunteers are amazing members of our community and FamilyCare are grateful for all they do!

If you are interested in volunteering and being part of the team, please call FamilyCare on 5823 7000 or email volunteer@familycare.net.au

Happy National Volunteer Week

This week, we recognise and thank the incredible volunteers at GV Health who give their time, care and energy to support our patients, staff and community. Whether it’s offering a warm welcome, guiding people through our facilities, or lending a listening ear, our volunteers play an invaluable role in making GV Health a more compassionate and connected place. We are so grateful for everything you do. Your kindness and commitment make a lasting difference every single day.

Graham Street, Shepparton P 03 5832 2322 Like us on � � �

TRADE TALK: WHY TOBY GREENE WOULD ENTERTAIN A MOVE TO MELBOURNE

NICHOLAS QUINLAN/SEN

GWS captain Toby Greene has spoken about his playing future, admitting he hasn’t given much consideration to his next contract at this stage.

Having been drafted by GWS in 2011, the inaugural Giant is only one of two players to have played every season with the AFL’s 18th side.

In that time, the 32-year-old became one of the premier small forwards in the competition, having made the AllAustralian side on three occasions, including being named captain in 2023.

But with Greene coming out of contract at the end of the season, there has been plenty of speculation on his playing future, which, as he acknowledges, is the first time he has to deal with in his career.

“It’s something I’ve never had to deal with in my whole career,” Greene said on SEN’s AFL Nation.

“I think about some guys who signed one-year deals consistently their whole career, and they’re on the edge.

“I’ve been super lucky and super secure, and I’ve always loved my time at the Giants. I’ve always backed us to compete for flags and try and make finals, and for the best part of that, we have.

“We haven’t been able to win one (premiership), but that’s my dream, so I’ve never really been in this position, ever.

“The only reason, I guess, is cause I’m a bit older in my career, and I just wanna assess life after footy and what that looks like.”

Having come from Victoria, that speculation has largely been centred around a move back home.

And while the Giants’ all-time games record holder did acknowledge the possibility of moving back home to have more support for his

he is still enjoying his life in Sydney.

“Then it comes to, I guess, family and life after footy,” he

In Loving Memory of Barbara Whyte

(Nee Northey)

Passed away peacefully surrounded by her devoted family 13th May 2026

Aged 94 years

Adored wife of Ralph (Deceased). Beloved Mother of Roger, Peter, and Bronwen. Much loved Mother-in-law of Cheryl, Denise, and Michael. Cherished Grandmother of Grant, Adam, Claire, and Emma (Deceased), Madi, Luke, Rebecca, Benjamin and Daniel. Loved Grandmother-in-law of Jeanette, Lauren, Maz, Ellie, Arron, Alex and Stacey. Adored Great Grandmother and Granny Barbs of Xavier, Owen, Eleanor, Natalie, Willow, Elodie, Jude, Noah, Oliver, Hudson, Archer and Spencer.

Her love, courage and strength will forever live in our hearts.

Robert George COLLIVER

28.08.1961 – 09.05.2026

Rob, a friend and neighbour for 30 years.

We will never forget the kindness and generosity that you showed us. You will be sadly missed. Rest in peace now Robbie. Jeff and Mel Spencer

Barbara Whyte

A funeral service to celebrate the life of Barbara Whyte will be held at St Augustine’s Church, 95 Maude Street Shepparton, on Monday 25th May at 11.00am

After which the cortege will leave for the Pine Lodge Cemetery.

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Robert George COLLIVER Robert George COLLIVER

of Rushworth, passed away on 9/5/26

He was a good mate to many, father, brother to Marian and Margaret, much loved uncle, stepdad, and husband who gave so freely of his time. He will be remembered for his kindness. We all miss you Rob, forever in our hearts.

Jenny, Alex, Julian and Ashley

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CLOTHES dryer smaller size $30 Ph: 0417 214 983

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trees, 1 metre tall have been in frost ready to plant now, $25 each Ph: 0427 319 050

WORM juice excellent for plants & vegetable gardens 2Lt for $3 Ph 0417 214 983

Robert George COLLIVER Robert George COLLIVER

A celebration of Robs life will be held Monday 25th 11 am. Graveside service Rushworth Cemetery

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Phone Jenny 0422 568 792 4 WHEEL mobility scooter, green colour,

BIRD TRAPS $60 Mooroopna Men's Shed. Ph: Stephen 0432 150

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Trusted real estate expertise in Shepparton

Join Goulburn VALLEY WATER’S

customer Panel

Our Customer Accountability Panel is a key customer voice in planning for our future and reflecting on our promises and actions.

We’re seeking new members to join the panel - here’s your chance to be involved.

The panel meets annually to represent our entire customer base. You don’t need any experience in the water sector - we’ll provide everything you need to participate.

Expressions of interest close 31 May, 2026. Find out more about the panel and submit your interest by scanning the QR code.

IF you are buying or selling a property, you’re in good hands with Gagliardi Scott Real Estate. Real Estate Agents Nicole Male and Ange Damien bring years of combined experience in the local property market, where they have built strong relationship skills, clear communication, and a deep understanding of what local buyers and sellers are looking for.

Ange grew up locally, is married with three children, and began her real estate career in 2023. Since then, she has developed a strong customer-focused approach and is known for her friendly nature, dedication, and commitment to creating positive client experiences.

Working as a residential sales executive at Gagliardi Scott Real Estate, Ange’s passion for real estate is reflected in her people skills, energy, and strong work ethic at every stage of the property journey.

Nicole brings a wealth of experience across client-focused roles, combined with a passionate approach to real estate and a commitment to exceeding client expectations. As a residential sales and commercial leasing executive, she prides herself on guiding clients through the Shepparton property market with confidence and ensuring they are wellinformed to make sound decisions.

Staying ahead of market trends and implementing innovative marketing strategies are key to achieving optimal results. Nicole’s meticulous attention to detail, strong work ethic, and proactive approach ensure every transaction is

managed with precision and care.

Whether you are selling, buying your first home, or expanding your investment portfolio, Nicole and Ange are dedicated to helping you achieve your desired outcome. Clients can rely on the high level of care and professionalism for which Gagliardi Scott Real Estate is known.

Contact Gagliardi Scott Real Estate’s Shepparton office on 03 5831 1800 or visit www.gagliardiscott.com.au/