The Adviser 1825

Lifesaving medication shouldn’t cause hypertension

IDOPATHIC pulmonary arterial hypertension (IPAH) is a rare, progressive disease characterised by high blood pressure in the lungs' arteries without an identifiable cause. IPAH is so rare that few people know of it, but in Shepparton one brave local has battled the condition for more than 26 years.

Tina Powney has lived with IPAH for over two decades. She relies on a continuous intravenous medication delivered through a Hickman line directly into her heart, carrying a pump with her 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Continued Page 15

Community focus on youth crime prevention

By Aaron Cordy

IMAGES and videos splashed across social media of young people carrying knives, primary school kids being attacked on the street and children being a menace in suburban streets, added to an article on a disreputable online news source on African gangs roaming the streets of Shepparton, it is understandable why locals are concerned. While there is clearly an issue with youth crime in the region, like the rest of the country, it is not defined to one group, nor is it as rampant as the doom-sayers would have you believe.

Understanding that youth crime is complex, but not unsolvable; members of Shepparton Police, the education department and stakeholders from community organisations met to tackle the issue on Tuesday, July 21.

Continued Page 16

WORKSHOP AND EVENT LISTINGS

Recipe of the week

to serve

METHOD

1. Place olive oil, rosemary and garlic in a large zip-lock bag or non-reactive dish. Add lamb, turn to coat, and leave 30 mins to marinate and come to room temperature. When ready to cook, drain excess marinade and season both sides with a good pinch of salt.

2. Preheat a barbecue to high. Cook lamb for 15 mins, then flip and cook a further 10 mins, or until cooked to your liking. Transfer lamb to serving platter, cover with foil and rest for 10 mins.

3. While the lamb is cooking, prepare the salad. Gently smash cucumbers with the back of a knife, then roughly chop and transfer to a bowl with the chickpeas, red onion and roasted red capsicum. Add oil, vinegar and oregano and stir well. Spoon cucumber salad over rocket leaves. Serve

Congratulations to GMCU $25,000 Giveaway grand prize winner

WITH a record 58 prizes awarded during the GMCU $25,000 Giveaway, the region’s largest shoppers contest has now wrapped up with the $5,000 grand prize awarded to Shepparton’s Kelsey O’Riley who shopped at Fairleys IGA.

“What, oh my god you are kidding. This doesn’t feel real. I don’t have any words. Wow,” said Kelsey when she got the call from The Adviser notifying her of her win.

“I didn’t think I would win. I never win

these things. This is going to help more than you can ever imagine.

“I will be using it on groceries and everyday items. When the shock wears off, I’ll have another think about what I can buy too.”

Cafe Three620, who has been a great supporter of the Giveaway for four years, has won the Business Grand Prize.

During the competition, local shoppers that spent $10 or more at any of the 140+

participating businesses had a chance to enter to win weekly $250 prizes, with every eligible entry giving them a shot at winning the grand prize of $5,000 in Visa debit cards, courtesy of GMCU.

Thanks to everyone who has entered and supported the Giveaway this year, and congratulations to all 58 prize winners. See next week’s edition of The Adviser for the full GMCU $25,000 Giveaway wrap up.

Wyndham House Clinic

New patients are welcome with same day appointments available!

Medicare card holders will be bulk billed for eligible services. We practice whole of life care from antenatal to aged care. Our GPs and Specialised aged care nursing team visit aged care facilities weekly and as needed.

Wyndham House Clinic provides General Family Medicine including Chronic condition care, Men and Women’s health and Workplace employment checks and injury care.

More than a place

By Veronica Jamison, CEO, Shepparton Villages

Pothole patching proceeds but

Councillor says the time for short-term fixes has

passed

By Deanne Jeffers

AFTER making headlines in recent weeks, crews were sighted repairing potholes on Murchison-Tatura Road on Friday, July 17, with repairs also occurring from Monday, July 20 on the ‘storm damaged’ Goulburn Valley Highway.

While some potholes remain in these areas, one of the worst sections of Murchison-Tatura Road pictured on the front page of The Adviser on July 15, has now been mostly filled. However, the speed limit has been reduced to 60km in this area near Murchison.

City of Greater Shepparton Councillor Rod Schubert, who represents Midland Ward, welcomed the repairs but said the road had been a concern for some time and required full rehabilitation.

“Victoria has earned the unwanted title of Australia’s ‘Pothole Capital’,” he said. “Analysis of Snap Send Solve reports featured by Nine News and 10 News, found that Victoria recorded 31,729 pothole reports, compared to 23,312 in New South Wales and 19,784 in Queensland. The same analysis identified a 28 per cent increase in pothole reports across Victoria in a single year.

“The Murchison-Tatura Road has been a stark example of Victoria’s road

maintenance crisis. With extensive potholes, crumbling edges and deep rutting, the road poses an ongoing safety risk.”

“Recent wet weather has only accelerated the decline, leaving many sections in an unacceptable condition.”

Cr Schubert, who has made several reports about the state-managed road and spoken to media about its condition, said the government cannot treat regional road maintenance as a lower priority.

“Regional communities deserve the same level of investment and road safety as metropolitan Melbourne. Every road user has the right to travel on roads that are safe, reliable and properly maintained.

“The Murchison-Tatura Road is a vital transport link,” he said. “It supports the movement of people and goods that are essential to the economic strength of the Goulburn Valley. Allowing this road to continue deteriorating is not only a safety issue, but also an economic issue that affects businesses, farming communities and the broader region.”

Cr Schubert called on the State Government and Minister for Roads to immediately prioritise funding for the reconstruction and repair of MurchisonTatura Road.

“Temporary patching is no longer

sufficient. The road requires a comprehensive, long-term rehabilitation program that addresses the underlying pavement failures rather than treating the symptoms,” he said.

“Regional Victorians should not have to wait for serious injury or fatality before meaningful action is taken. The condition of Murchison-Tatura Road has been obvious for far too long. The time for shortterm fixes has passed.”

Residents and motorists are encouraged to report any urgent issues on statemanaged roads with the relevant authority. Who to contact:

• Snap Send Solve: Download the smartphone app to take a photo of a local hazard. The app automatically determines your GPS location and forwards the report directly to the responsible local council or utility.

• Greater Shepparton City Council: Call (03) 5832 9700 for issues on local council streets or footpaths.

• Transport Victoria (DTP / VicRoads): Call the hazard hotline on 13 11 70 to report urgent issues like deep highway potholes or broken traffic signals.

With all the talk that goes on about retirement villages and aged care facilities and the like these days – including here in this column – it might be easy to forget that these options are not what EVERY older person needs.

I’ve mentioned it before but it’s worth saying again: There are more options available these days to carry on in your own home and NOT move into any type of village or complex, if that’s what you want.

Of course, it will depend very much on individual circumstances including health, budget and some other factors. But it’s important to remember that it’s these things that matter, not your actual age in itself. Some people can be forgiven for getting spooked into believing that they need a level of care higher than they really do, just because they’re at “retirement age”.

If you’re happy in the home you live in, you can manage it, your health is up to it, it works for your family, and that’s what you want to do, then no one should feel any compulsion to rush into a higher care environment. You can do that if and when you are ready – but not because your date of birth compels you!

There are some fine providers of Support at Home services these days – including our very own Shepparton Villages – and these kind of care services are often covered in part or in full by the Australian Government, subject to an aged care assessment.

They’re helping a growing number of retirees to stay in their own homes, with a helping hand along the way.

We’re always happy to answer inquiries about our own Support at Home offerings at any time.

No furphy about literary prize winners

By Aaron Cordy

THE 2026 Furphy Literary Award (FLA) winners were announced on Saturday, July 25, at the Shepparton Art Museum. Kailum Graves won the first-place prize of $15,000 for his entry The Magpies Have Unionised. The short story beat out a record 881 entries submitted in 2026.

‘The Magpies Have Unionised’ sees a local council worker receive a notice of industrial action from the ‘Australian Magpie Collective, Marrow Creek Branch’. As the matter of magpie rights rapidly makes international headlines, local council members scramble to negotiate with the unionised birds for the community. Written with wit and insight, Kailum’s allegorical short story is unforgettable in its delightful absurdity.

“Overwhelming. But amazing and incredible,” said a humble Kailum on the win.

“I read other stuff that other people write, and it always just blows my mind that like someone thought that or wrote that. So, I never really know.

“I've been sitting here, thinking this audience is beautiful, as I've been sitting here. This is my actual first literary thing I've gone to, and it's just a nice community. I think it was sweet tonight. I really just enjoyed it.”

In second place is Michael Burrows, who received $3,000 with ‘Four and A Half Stars.’ And in third place is ‘Saint Kilda’ by Isabel Greenslade, who received $2,000.

The winner and 13 shortlisted stories will be published in the upcoming Furphy Anthology 2026.

Shortlisted:

• David Harris, ‘4,3,3’

• Shane Brown, ‘Yabancı’

• Nicole Laursen, ‘Uber Nan’

• Lucy Christopher, ‘Blood Moon’

• Louise Walton, ‘Lice-free’

• Lyn Treadwell, ‘Stingray Morning’

• Harriet Syme, ‘The Absence’

• Naomi Manuell, ‘Fox Bounty’

• David Walker, ‘CoolBarista’

• Richard Boe, ‘The Meat Tray’

• Shaun McMahon, ‘An Unwell Heartbeat’

• Gayle Beveridge, ‘The Kangaroo Call’

• Sally Ross, ‘The Kiss’

See how hemp is transforming home living

CURIOUS about the future of sustainable housing? The public will have the opportunity to step inside a modern hemp home in Murchison this weekend and discover why this innovative building material is attracting growing interest across Australia.

Hosted by the Victorian Hemp Association, the open day on Sunday, August 2, will give visitors the chance to tour a completed hemp home, speak with industry experts and learn how hempbased construction is creating healthier, more energy-efficient and environmentally sustainable homes.

The home of Carolyn and Rod Gale, who helped with the hemp walls under the guidance and support of David Brian from

Southern Hemp, will be open to the public for the event. The hemp component took three weeks to install and now occupied for more than a year, it offers visitors the opportunity to hear first-hand about the experience of living in a hemp home and the benefits it has delivered in all seasons.

Hemp homes are increasingly being recognised for their excellent thermal performance, helping maintain comfortable indoor temperatures year-round while reducing heating and cooling costs. The material also offers impressive acoustic insulation, natural moisture regulation and environmental benefits, making it an attractive option for those looking to build

healthier, more sustainable homes.

The open day will provide an opportunity for prospective builders, renovators, primary producers, and the wider community to explore the growing role hemp is playing in Australian construction and ask questions directly of those involved in the industry.

Entry is by gold coin donation and registrations are essential to attend. The open day will run Sunday, August 2, 10am to 2pm.

Details and registrations are available through the Victorian Hemp Association's events page at: https://tinyurl.com/ hemphouseopenday

SEEKING OWNERS

Shepparton Police are seeking owners to various items received by the police station.

The ring pictured was handed in on July 19, 2026. If the ring belongs to you, please contact Shepparton Police Station on 03 5820 5777. Quote reference number: 202607-E-1458

Shepparton Police are also seeking the owner of several items found near Corio Street, Shepparton, at a vacant block on July 15, 2026. If these items belong to you, please contact Shepparton Police Station on 03 5820 5777 and quote the reference number: 202607-E-1120.

JACINTA ALLAN RESIGNS AS PREMIER

Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan resigned on Tuesday ahead of a Victorian Labor leadership vote, with Deputy Premier Ben Carroll expected to succeed her as leader of the Victorian Labor Party and become the state’s next premier. The Labor caucus meeting was due to take place as The Adviser was going to print.

GREAT DAY TO VIEW A BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION

The Shepparton Day VIEW Club proudly celebrated its 32nd birthday on Wednesday, July 15, with members and officials from other VIEW Clubs in the region. With the theme of ‘Denim and Diamonds’, a fun-filled and memorable occasion was held for all to enjoy.

The club recognised Judi and Glenda, two of its 30-year members, by presenting them with a ‘Making a Difference’ award for their loyalty and dedication. President Geri presented these awards.

VIEW Clubs sponsor the Smith Family‘s Learning for Life program, which provides literacy, numeracy, social and financial support to children whose parents or carers are struggling financially. The Shepparton Day VIEW Club currently sponsor eight children for their education.

If you want to learn more, Shepparton meetings are held the first Wednesday of the month at The Peppermill from 11am or contact Susanne on 0409 331 930.

PREPARING SCHOOLS FOR BUSHFIRE SEASON

Thirty schools across 344 campuses will share in more than $8M to clear vegetation around buildings well ahead of the dangerous season thanks to State Government funding through Bushfire Vegetation Grants.

Primary schools on the Bushfire at Risk Register will receive funding, including Guthrie Street PS, Mooroopna North PS, Toolamba PS, Wunghnu PS, Currawa PS and Longwood PS.

Deputy Premier and Minister for Education Ben Carroll said funding will mostly go to schools in regional Victoria where families need this protection most.

“It’s never too early to prepare for bushfire season, so Labor is stepping in to protect school communities well before bushfire season begin,” said Mr Carroll.

MOOROOPNA BALL ROOM DANCE GROUP

On Sunday, August 9, 1-5pm, Mooroopna Ball Room Dance Group will host its monthly dance concert, which runs the second Sunday of each month at the Mooroopna Hall (43 McLennan Street, Mooroopna). Entry is $10 and raffle tickets at $1 each, with all profits donated to charity. A shared plate is appreciated. For enquiries, phone Ian on 0402 522 602 or Simon on 0456 575 268.

GREATER TOGETHER FOREVER

Greater Shepparton Secondary College has launched an alumni network under the banner of ‘Greater Together Forever,’ so students and staff can stay connected long after they have left the college.

Led by Year 12 students Hadia Mirza, Mia Neal, Ella Wanjohi and Lachlan Gribble, and guided by school leaders Zarina Fleming and Myfanwy Saxton, past and present staff and students can connect on the GSSC Alumni Facebook and Instagram pages and register at https://linktr.ee/ gsscalumni_

SOCIAL SEQUENCE DANCING

Shepparton Social Sequence Dance group will host a performance on Sunday, August 9, 2.306.30pm. Entry is $10. Guests can expect raffles, door prizes and a lighthearted social evening. A plate to share is appreciated. Come along and enjoy. Contact Gail for more information: 0412 858 019.

Concerts are held on the second Sunday of each month. The group meet weekly on Wednesdays, 1-4pm at the Senior Citizens Hall (132 Welsford St, Shepparton), for anyone who would like to get involved.

Preparations underway for Piano Award

By Deanne Jeffers

THE Australian National Piano Award returns to Shepparton in October 2026, bringing the nation’s most gifted emerging classical pianists to Riverlinks Eastbank.

Preparations for the acclaimed biennial event were officially launched with a special A Seat at the Keys luncheon, where more than 100 guests gathered to celebrate the award.

Winning the Australian National Piano Award in 2006, acclaimed pianist Amir Farid is returning to Shepparton 20 years later, this time as an adjudicator. Now based in New York, Mr Farid said winning the prestigious award had been a defining moment in his career.

"It gave me the confidence to inject some belief into myself that I had what it takes to pursue a career in music," he said.

Mr Farid said one of the competition's defining features was its focus on pianists aged 21 to 35, allowing artists to compete once they had developed greater maturity and musical identity.

"I think artistically it takes time to mature, and you can't really show your true artistic colours until you're a little bit older in most cases. I like that this competition focuses on that," he said. "It feels more like you're giving recitals rather than competing."

Having listened to over 14 hours of audition recordings to help select the 14 finalists, Mr Farid said the standard this year would be exceptional.

"I know first-hand it's going to be an incredibly high standard," he said. "I'm really looking forward to hearing the finalists, although ranking them is the part I'm nervous about."

He said what continued to make the Australian National Piano Award unique was not only its format, but the fact it was held in regional Victoria.

"Every time I come here, it just feels like a community. It feels like a family," Mr Farid said.

"I've met so many people and made friends for life, and it feels like I'm coming

back to a family every time I come to Shepparton. I have the award to thank for that."

Mr Farid believes hosting a competition of this calibre in Shepparton is something the entire region should celebrate.

"So many things go to the capital cities, but there's so much more happening in the big centres outside the capitals," he said.

"To have more focus on those centres, I think is great for the country."

He encouraged people, regardless of their musical background, to experience the event.

"We have 14 of the greatest talents in the country all coming to Shepparton over one week in October. That's a very unique experience," he said.

"Even if you have no background in classical music, you're in for a treat. It's the best of the best."

As an adjudicator, Mr Farid said he would be looking beyond flawless technique.

"I want to get to know the person as an artist through their piano playing," he said. "The most important thing for me is to communicate and to express."

The Australian National Piano Award will be held in Shepparton from October 19 to 24, bringing Australia's finest emerging pianists together to compete for one of the country's richest and most respected piano prizes.

MOVED

We're excited to announce that Gulf Western Oil has moved to a bigger and better facility in Shepparton. Our new premises strengthen our ability to support customers throughout the Goulburn Valley region with increased capacity, improved efficiencies, and the same trusted products and service you've come to expect.

Election candidates emerge as sitting MP stands down

STATE Member for Shepparton District, Kim O’Keeffe, has announced that she will not recontest her seat in November’s state election. Ms O’Keeffe was first elected in 2022, after defeating Independent MP Suzanna Sheed.

In an announcement, Ms O’Keeffe said it has been a privilege, honour and joy to be a National Party member in State Parliament and to represent and serve the community.

“I have committed more than 10 years to public service including six years in Local Government. It has always been about serving my community, advocating for our region, and ensuring that people have the care and support they deserve and need,” she said.

“The time has come for me to slow down, spend more time with my family, and some much-needed self-care.”

While acknowledging some important investments in the electorate, including specialised housing for people experiencing homelessness, construction of staff accommodation at GV Health and the Shepparton Youth Prevention and Recovery Centre, as well as new early learning centres and the long-awaited redevelopment of Numurkah’s Pioneer Memorial Lodge Aged Care Facility, Ms O’Keefee also expressed frustration at the “shortfall of investment into regional Victoria under the current Victorian State Government.”

“It shouldn’t matter who is the government of the day, hospitals should be completed and properly invested so that they can provide the healthcare services communities need,” she said.

“We also desperately need more housing; everyone deserves to have a roof over their head and a place to call home. It has been incredibly distressing to see so much costof-living pressures impacting households and cuts to critical services.”

“I wish to thank all of my National Party colleagues

who have given me support and encouragement along the way, my loyal and supportive local National Party members, the team at Head Office, and deep gratitude to my dedicated staff Melissa, Jack, Safa and Nancy who have worked so incredibly hard and have supported me and our constituents.

“And also, my family, friends and my dedicated husband Brendan who has been with me every step of the way. To my community, thank you for your belief in me for your support.

“I will continue to support the community in any way that I can. That won’t change,” she said.

Candidates in the 2026 election

Following Ms O’Keeffe’s announcement, Alexander Lew, who lives in Burramboot in the Campaspe Shire and who works in Shepparton in the Office of Public Prosecutions, has announced he will apply for the Nationals preselection process.

Local business owner and City of Greater Shepparton Councillor for McEwan Ward, Steven Threlfall, has announced his intention to run as a candidate for One Nation.

Cayla Fin, who works at GOTAFE, has been announced as a candidate for the Labor Party.

Grace Verney, a university student and health sector worker, is the Greens Party candidate for Shepparton District.

Representing the Northern Victoria electorate, which includes Shepparton and surrounding communities, Liberal

MP Wendy Lovell announced earlier this year that she would also finish her tenure at the November election. Steve Brooks, a farmer and school teacher from Cobram, has been announced as the Liberal Party candidate for this seat. The Victorian State Election will be held on November 28, 2026.

Steve ‘Trelly’ Threlfall seeks to tackle state politics

By Deanne Jeffers

CITY of Greater Shepparton McEwen Ward Councillor and Trelly's Outdoors owner Steve Threlfall has announced he is seeking One Nation's endorsement to contest the seat of Shepparton at this year's Victorian election.

Mr Threlfall was born and raised in Shepparton and has operated his fishing, hunting and outdoor recreation business in the regional city for 40 years, with a second store in Bendigo. He is also involved in a range of industry and recreational organisations, including serving as President of the Firearm Traders Association of Victoria and on advisory committees relating to outdoor recreation and fisheries.

Speaking to The Adviser, Mr Threlfall said conversations with customers, residents and local businesses had convinced him there was growing frustration with the political system.

"I believe it's the right time because the amount of people that come through the store and the people that I see on the street and out about have just had enough of the system, the political system, and they want real change," he said.

A One Nation member on and off since the late 1990s, Mr Threlfall said he believed the party's values aligned with many people he speaks to throughout the community.

"I think the country value or the patriotic value, being an Australian, resonates with One Nation," he said. "It's getting things back on track."

If endorsed, Mr Threlfall said his campaign would focus on issues including water security, environmental management, outdoor

recreation, firearm legislation, regional investment, and curbing domestic violence and retail crime.

He said securing the right balance between environmental flows and agricultural water use would be among his priorities.

"We're probably 70 to 80 per cent reliant on water in the Goulburn Valley," he said. "Concentrating on that and getting water back to the right spaces into the right percentage to environment, back to agriculture, is another one that's a policy that I would strongly advocate for."

Mr Threlfall also pointed to retail theft as an issue he regularly encounters through his business.

"We're just seeing repeat offenders," he said. "They go through the revolving door and then they're back out in the street again."

Reflecting on his time as a councillor, Mr Threlfall said local government had provided valuable insight into decision-making processes and strengthened his desire to advocate for the region at state level.

He also said, if preselected, he would keep Greater Shepparton City Council informed throughout the process.

"I'll be very transparent with Council and our CEO," he said. "I'll let Fiona [Le Gassick] know every step of the way."

Looking more broadly at Victoria, Mr Threlfall said he wanted greater scrutiny of government spending and stronger support for regional communities.

"I think people really want to see spending analysed. They want to see where our money's going. Transparency, fair go for people in the

country," he said.

He argued Greater Shepparton had not received the same level of investment as some comparable regional centres and pointed to ongoing infrastructure priorities including health services and sporting facilities.

Mr Threlfall said the realities of running a business over four decades had shaped his approach to financial management, teaching him to negotiate through difficult periods and focus on what is essential.

"Being in business for 40 years... there have been a few times I've had to call up all my creditors and say I can't pay your bill," he said. "But that puts me in the mindset of asking: what can we do, what can we save, what do we really need?"

He added that his experience serving on industry advisory bodies had given him an understanding of how government funding systems operate and how policy decisions are implemented.

"I'm happy to learn, and I'm happy to take advice from the best people in the business around here, and table that at the right places and the right moments, and educate myself," he said.

One Nation has not yet formally announced its candidate for the seat of Shepparton, with Mr Threlfall saying he expects the party's preselection process to be finalised in the coming weeks.

Deakin Reserve improvements continue

UPGRADES at Deakin Reserve have continued to progress, with Greater Shepparton City Council delivering a range of improvements to one of the region's premier sporting precincts.

Home to the Shepparton Bears Football Netball Club, Shepparton United Football Netball Club and St Brendan's Cricket Club, the reserve has seen progress across several priorities identified in the Deakin Reserve Future Directions Plan.

Recently completed projects include:

• Construction of a second netball court and warm-up area, along with a new amenities block, ticket box and officials' and players' shelters.

• Development of a public toilet and changeroom facilities plan designed to meet contemporary accessibility and user requirements.

• Installation of a larger digital scoreboard with video capability and a relocated media box to improve functionality.

• Additional storage facilities to better support sporting clubs, reserve maintenance and future major events.

• Replacement of boundary fencing along Harold and Nixon streets earlier this year. Council said improvements to pedestrian access and accessibility throughout the reserve, including upgraded asphalt pathways and spectator seating, are partially complete and will continue as future works progress.

Greater Shepparton City Council Acting

Director Infrastructure Janelle Bunfield said Deakin Reserve remained a key sporting and community asset.

"Deakin Reserve is an iconic space within Greater Shepparton, supporting participation from grassroots through to elite levels of football, netball and cricket," she said.

"Several important upgrades have been completed at Deakin Reserve in recent years, improving the experience for players, clubs and the wider community. Council will continue to work closely with user groups to identify future opportunities and deliver the priorities outlined in the Deakin Reserve Future Directions Plan."

Ms Bunfield said the new boundary fencing was installed following requests from user groups to improve access and safety around the reserve and adjoining playground.

"As part of planned renewal works, the fencing along Harold Street and Nixon Street required replacement. Council worked closely with the relevant user groups to ensure the renewed fencing improves safety while maintaining public access to the playground," she said.

The playground will remain open to the public during weekdays via the main gates.

On match days, the Harold and Nixon Street gates will be closed, however visitors can still access the playground by entering through the ticketed gates and advising attendants of their destination.

Naturally Nicholls Calendar

I’m inviting photographers of all ages and experience levels from across Nicholls to snap their way into the 2027 Naturally Nicholls calendar.

This year’s theme celebrates the landscapes, communities and industries that make our region unique. Each year I’m amazed by both the quality and quantity of entries, and I’m looking forward to seeing another outstanding collection of photographs from right across our region.

Thirteen photos will feature in the calendar, one for each month plus the front cover, with full credit given to every photographer selected. Prizes of $200, $100 and $50 gift cards are on offer for the top three entries.

Entries are submitted online at sambirrell.com.au.

Entries close at 10pm on Wednesday 30 September 2026. This is your opportunity to put your corner of Nicholls on the cover.

Back in Kilmore

It was good to be back in Kilmore recently, working through local priorities alongside my state colleague Annabelle Cleeland MP.

A planning overlay approved by the state government will see Kilmore grow by more than 300 per cent in the coming decades. Growth on that scale needs infrastructure to match.

One priority is the John Street extension, which would connect residents in

the growth corridor to the shops in the north of town without adding to congestion on Sydney Road. Mitchell Shire is ready to proceed but has not yet found a government willing to fund it.

The roads and other infrastructure in Kilmore cannot cope with what is already here, let alone what is coming. Kilmore deserves a fair share of infrastructure investment before the growth arrives, not after.

Fixing Our Roads

I’ve been on the road a lot lately, and the state of our regional roads is hard to ignore.

Potholes across regional Victoria are not just an inconvenience, they are dangerous. Cars and trucks are being damaged, and drivers are being forced to swerve into oncoming traffic to avoid them. Motorists are expected to keep their

vehicles roadworthy. Governments should be expected to keep our roads worthy of the cars driving on them.

The state Liberal-Nationals Coalition has committed $5 billion to fix more than one million potholes across Victoria. Labor has neglected regional roads for years, and it is time for a change of government, at both a state and federal level, to fix them.

Business festival launches biggest program yet

RUNNING from August 3 to 21, the 2026 Greater Shepparton Business Festival features a jampacked program with bookings now open for more than 20 free workshops, networking events and business development opportunities.

The program was officially launched on July 13 by Greater Shepparton City Council, with support from

Asuria, GOTAFE, Greater Shepparton Business Network, La Trobe University and Workforce Australia Local Jobs (Goulburn Murray), unveiling the fesitval's largest program to date.

Sessions include a range of topics including marketing, artificial intelligence, tendering, workforce development, cyber security, finance, business planning, and much

more. Events take place across Greater Shepparton, with some selected online sessions also available.

Bookings are now open, with places limited. View the full program and register at shepp.city/gsbf or phone (03) 5832 9700.

See pages 2 and 3 of this edition for the full program.

Lifesaving medication shouldn’t cause hypertension

PHARMACEUTICAL BENEFITS SCHEME... Tina Powney relies on a continuous intravenous medication delivered through a Hickman line directly into her heart to manage IPAH, which she has lived with for over two decades. A breakthrough medication called Winrevair (sotatercept) could be a game changer for Tina, if the costs weren’t so high. Photo: Supplied

continued from front page

IF THE pump alarms or stops working, Tina has mere minutes to act before her health is at serious risk. Though lifesaving, the Hickman line also puts her at constant risk of life-threatening infections and repeated hospital admissions.

It is not all doom and gloom for Tina; a breakthrough medication called Winrevair (sotatercept) is being considered for listing on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS). If approved, this treatment could allow Tina to stop the continuous IV pump and instead receive a simple injection every three weeks.

“It has the potential to dramatically improve my quality of life and reduce the daily risks associated with my current treatment,” said Tina.

“This isn't just my story. It's the story of Australians living

with pulmonary arterial hypertension who are hoping for access to a treatment that could change their lives.

“I am not seeking sympathy. I simply want to raise awareness about this devastating disease and the importance of ensuring Australians have access to life-changing medicines.”

Winrevair isn’t the only medication that needs PBS approval, with a new report from Medicines Australia, ‘Bitter Pill: How Australian patients are missing out on the latest medical breakthroughs’, identifying 18 specific medicines that want to be listed in Australia but have been deterred by agonising processes and declining investment in the PBS.

Decisions about PBS listings follow formal assessment processes before government approval.

Letters to the Editor

STANDING UP TO YOUTH CRIME

FIRSTLY, I want to commend the work of the many passionate families in our region; including the Mills, Sanders and Staggards to highlight the impact that youth offences have had in regional communities like ours, and their strength to speak publicly on their own families’ experiences.

Having attended the recent 'Tipping Point: Standing Up for Change rally' in Shepparton as a family with my wife and daughter, we saw the passion on display to work together towards positive ends, and hearing from parents across the board it was clear that ultimately everyone wanted what was best for both the kids and our community as a whole.

We welcome Letters to the Editor but they are not guaranteed to be included and may be edited for reasons of style or content. Letters will not be eligible for consideration if they contain defamatory material, or information of a personal nature which is not in the public domain.

Violence has no place in our community, regardless of the age of the offender, victims deserve better, their families deserve better, and the young people committing these offences deserve to exist in a system that reinforces the choice between right and wrong that we are all taught growing up – so to ensure they can become healthy functioning members of our society.

Kind regards, Rowan Farren-Parnell Mooroopna

Want to have your say?

Email your letters to the editor to editorial@sheppartonadviser.com.au Please keep letters to under 200 words.

continued from front page

Community focus on youth crime prevention

“THE violence that some of our young people in this community have exhibited more recently. There's been some high-profile events, and so we just wanted to come together to look at ways we could use our resources in community to circumvent a pathway into violence,” said the Department of Education’s Sharon Hensgen-Smith.

“In the main, our young people don't exhibit violence out in the community. But what we're seeing with violence is becoming a lot more intense for our young people, and it's really facilitated by social media, and

that's a real concern for us as a community.”

The approach in the room was not another outdated tough-on-crime approach that hasn’t worked. They looked at key factors that have kept young people out of positive environments like community groups and sporting clubs, and how to bring them back.

“We have a real opportunity because there's a lot of willingness of the people in this room to make a big difference. And it's really pleasing that we're all tracking in the same direction. And by and large, that's to divert young people

THE 1ST Kialla Scout Group are partnering with the Shepparton Rover Unit and Northern West District Scouts to present ScoutFest 2026 at Victoria Park Lake this Saturday. A free community event designed to give local families and young people the opportunity to experience

away from the criminal justice system. We're all on the same page in that respect,” said Greater Shepparton Police Superintendent Brett Kahan.

“I think a lot of the youth violence that has been exhibited in Greater Shepparton recently has been unfortunately portrayed negatively through social media, and those kids aren't necessarily bad. So, what can we do as community leaders to actually get them to make better decisions, to assist them in their decision-making, and get back to school?

“I'm really positive that we can make a big difference, and

if we miss this opportunity, it's sort of us, because we've got a really stable group of community leaders at the moment in Greater Shepparton, which we haven't always had. So, we've got a real good opportunity to make a difference.”

Looking at a wraparound approach for young people and their families to help prevent

ScoutFest

scouting through a range of fun, hands-on activities.

The event is open to everyone, regardless of age or previous scouting experience. Families are encouraged to come along, meet local Scout leaders and members, and discover the adventure that scouting offers.

them from committing crime or bring them back on a straight path if they have committed a crime is the solution. Whether it is keeping children engaged in education, helping them find a job, a sporting organisation and community group they can be a part of, instead of running them through the justice system, which has been proven to almost guarantee repeat

Visitors will have the opportunity to try activities including:

• First Aid

• Bottle Rockets

• Paracord Keychains

• Pioneering Come along to ScoutFest, Saturday,

offending.

“This is not about sending kids who commit violence to jail. It's far from it. It's actually committing kids who are on a bad pathway away from that path. That's what it's about. And I'll never be sold on that a kid can't be helped. And if we give up on the kids, then we're in a world of trouble,” said Superintendent Brett Kahan.

August 1, from 1pm to 4pm at Victoria Park Lake, Shepparton. The event is free, but people can pre-register at https://www. trybooking.com/DNXMF to receive a small gift on the day. Walk-ins are also very welcome.

New doctors taking on new patients

FINDING a good doctor in Shepparton is now easier with Dr Gilda Geranmayeh and Dr Hrishikesh Gavankar and all the GPS at Wyndham House Clinic taking on new patients with same day appointments available.

Dr Gilda Geranmayeh is new to the area, after practising in Iran, then Cohuna for four years when she returned to Australia. A General Practitioner, her interests include skin cancer medicine and skin checks, women’s health, mental health, children’s health,

preventive health, and healthy ageing.

Having been at the practice working full time for just a month, Dr Geranmayeh is enjoying the melting pot that is Shepparton, along with the greater access to facilities in town, but believes her time in Cohuna has made her more resilient with patient care.

“I learned a lot, and I got more familiar with the Australian health system, because in Cohuna we didn't have facilities such as hospitals or specialists close by. So, it was our job to manage the

patients, stabilise them. If they needed to be referred, we had to refer them to hospitals and specialists further out of town. It was an interesting learning curve,” said Dr Geranmayeh.

Dr Hrishikesh Gavankar has been working part time in the clinic for several months, a Specialist General Practitioner who worked in Kyabram, Wangaratta, and Albury before settling in Shepparton with his wife. He has an interest in paediatrics, diabetes management, thyroid disorders, bone health, chronic disease management,

Recognising innovation in Greater Shepparton

EMBRACING new ideas, identifying industry trends and improving processes to enhance outcomes are all hallmarks of forward-thinking businesses deserving recognition.

Celebrating those achievements, Australian food and beverage manufacturer Noumi proudly sponsors the Excellence in Innovation award at the Greater Shepparton Business Excellence Awards Proudly Brought to you by Shepparton Club Inc.

The award recognises businesses that have embraced innovation through new technologies, methodologies or processes to improve outcomes for clients, the community and the wider public. Entrants are asked to demonstrate significant innovation in their management, products, services or business practices, and show how these initiatives have created a competitive advantage while delivering measurable results.

As a business driven by continuous improvement, Noumi understands the value of innovation. Through its commitment to creating a Healthier Tomorrow, the company continues to invest in better outcomes for consumers, communities, the environment and its own operations.

Paul Trewin, General Manager Operations at Noumi's Shepparton site, encouraged businesses making a positive impact through innovation to put themselves forward.

"Innovation isn't always about creating something completely new. Often it's about finding better ways to solve problems, improve customer experiences or strengthen your business. Greater Shepparton is home to many innovative businesses, and this award is an opportunity to recognise those achievements and inspire others to continue pushing boundaries," he said.

and mental health.

“In rural health, the main thing is you have to take full responsibility for the patients, and then you get to do more hands-on care, rather than just referring them on. So,

it's more rewarding,” said Dr Gavankar.

Wyndham House Clinic is a bulk billing practice for eligible Medicare card holders and services it is located at 96 Maude Street, Shepparton and is open Monday to Friday, 8am-6pm. You can call the clinic on 5820 4300 or visit www.wyndhamhouseclinic. com.au. Bookings can also be made via Hotdocs.

Nominations for the Greater Shepparton Business Excellence Awards are now open.

Businesses that have embraced innovation and demonstrated outstanding results are encouraged to enter and celebrate their success

alongside the region's leading businesses. For the full list of award categories and to nominate, visit: www.gsbn.net. au/2026-award-categories/

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previews R16 SPLIT ROUND

ECHUCA (2nd) v SEYMOUR (3rd)

Unless something goes horribly wrong and the Lions lose all three of their remaining games, unlikely given they play winless Tatura in the final round, these teams will remain in their current positions. The Lions were beaten comfortably by Euroa on Saturday, kept scoreless in the first term and facing a 27-point half-time deficit. Seymour was missing co-coach Jack Murphy and hasn't seen star forward Riley Mason for six weeks. Echuca also had a number of stars missing, Sam Reid and Liam Tenace among them, but has co-coach Angus Byrne and star centreman Jack McHale returning from injury after playing through the reserves last weekend.

Last Time They Met: Lions won by 34 points Netball: Echuca is coming off a 97-goal haul against bottom-placed Kyabram, which has continued to battle against the odds after losing six of its seven starters from last season.

with only three home-and-away games remaining, and a weekend off next week. Last Time They Met: Bears won by 92 points Netball: The Bears' reigning premier A Grade side sits seventh on the ladder, one game outside the top six after losing to Shepparton Swans by a goal on the weekend. They have three winnable games against the 11th, 12th and 10th-ranked teams, which may prove their saving grace.

TATURA (12th) v SHEPPARTON UNITED (8th)

Percentage will play a big part in the makeup of the final six in the GVL senior football competition, but Shepparton United must first beat Tatura on the scoreboard before thinking about improving its percentage.

The win took the Murray Bombers to top spot on the ladder and they remain the outstanding defensive team of the competition.

Seymour has lost its last two games but still sits fourth on the ladder.

SHEPPARTON BEARS (1st) v BENALLA (11th)

Benalla has been overtaken by the in-form Euroa team, which finished the six Rivalry Rounds with three successive wins against Mansfield, Seymour and Benalla.

The Saints now face the top team, which hasn't tasted defeat since Round 8 on May 30.

The Bears have two of the best goal-kicking midfielders in the competition, Lewis McShane and Luke Smith, while Archer Heuston (playing his first senior GVL game of 2026) announced his arrival with three goals in the win against Shepparton Swans.

Benalla has pushed century goal-kicking forward Brady Bartlett into defence, where he looks comfortable, but was missing leading goal-kicker Michael Mummery on the weekend.

Shepparton still has a number of stars to return, but given its position on the ladder may not risk bringing them back

Tatura had a terrible first half against Rochester, trailing by 34 points, but was outscored by just four points in the second half and had outstanding players in Jimmy Bennett, Tom Sullivan and Ryan Young. United was best served last week by VFLlisted player Zavier Maher, while Matt Casey extended his lead at the top of the goal-kicking table by kicking another three goals. He now has 46 for the season, leading Luke Smith by eight goals and the injured Riley Mason by nine. United sits eighth but is just one win outside the top six and needs to win this game well, as it faces Echuca in Round 17 before a final-round appointment with ninth-ranked Mansfield, which is also still a chance to play finals. Last Time They Met: Shepparton United won by 99 points

Netball: Tatura is still involved in the battle to keep its place in the A Grade top six but will have its hands full with United. United is two games outside the top six, but with Echuca in Round 17 and a desperate Mansfield in the final round, it won't be expecting to feature in September.

Tatura has a strong percentage, thanks to its impressive defensive unit, and needs to win two of its final three games to guarantee a place in the finals. If it loses to United and Seymour (in the final round), its finals fate could come down to percentage.

WHAT’S THE PASS MARK FOR ADELAIDE THIS SEASON?

NICHOLAS QUINLAN/SEN

SEN’s Crunch Time team has debated what should be the pass mark for the Adelaide Crows in 2026.

Following their first minor premiership in eight years in 2025, Adelaide was knocked out in straight sets, failing to win a single quarter throughout.

Following their disastrous exit in September, the Crows remained around the mark in 2026, finding themselves in the mix for a top six spot having won six of their eight matches since their mid-season bye.

With Adelaide currently placed for a home elimination final, this lead former West Coast coach Adam Simpson to wonder whether we should be expecting more from them given their previous season.

This then led to a debate between himself and Kane Cornes as to what would be considered a pass for Matthew Nicks’ men.

Simpson: “They’re 5th at the moment. Are we happy (with that)?”

“If you’re an Adelaide supporter, are we expecting them to be top?”

“I know last year they had the perfect year last year. The fixture, they had no injuries, they came from outside the eight…”

Cornes: “Prelim final is the pass mark.”

Simpson: “Yeah, I tend to disagree a little bit.

“I just think next year (after the minor premiership) is always, can you frank what you did in that perfect storm year where (there was) no injuries, you had the head of fitness who was a star, you had the perfect draw and you fell over.”

“So if they hadn’t made a prelim last year…”

Cornes: “Year seven, a long rebuild, hasn’t won a final as a coach, finished top last year, didn’t win a final as a result of two home finals, (the pass mark) had to be a prelim.

“How could it be anything other than…”

Tom Morris: “What about an elimination final win, Kane? Just winning a final.”

Cornes: “It’s prelim for me.”

“Like winning a final is great and (it) gets that monkey off Matthew Nicks’ back to get his first final win.”

“You top up your list again. They’ve been pretty aggressive; it’s a long time, seven years.”

Simpson: “I’m probably (for) win a final.

Cornes: “Win a Wildcard final or a proper final.

Simpson: “That’s a good question. A (proper) final is one I’d be leaning on as that would be expectation.

Gerard Whateley: “They wouldn’t want to lose an elimination final to a Wildcard team.”

The Crows will travel east to Marvel Stadium where Essendon awaits them for their Round 21 clash. That match takes place on Sunday, which begins at 4:40pm AEST.