The Advisier 1779

100s attend Oration

By Aaron Cordy

RUMBALARA Football and Netball Club held the 17th annual Dungala Kaiela Oration, co-hosted by the Kaiela Institute and the University of Melbourne, with Yorta Yorta and other First Nations communities and members of the wider Goulburn Murray region, on Thursday, August 21. A packed room heard speeches from Kaiela Institute Executive Director Dr Paul Briggs AO, University of Melbourne Vice-Chancellor Emma Johnston AO, Goulburn-Murray Water Director David McKenzie, hosted and Dr Karyn Ferguson, with a special performance by James Henry.

Continued Page 15

Family fun at Winter City Market

GREATER Shepparton City Council is preparing to bring some winter warmth to the CBD with the much-loved Winter City Market, returning Friday and Saturday, August 29 and 30, 2025.

The event promises two vibrant days of family activities and great shopping. Locals and visitors can expect exclusive deals from

participating retailers, with market trading hours running Friday 29 from 10am to 6pm and Saturday 30 from 9am to 3pm.

Council’s Place Manager, Bonnie McIntosh, said creating opportunities for local businesses is a priority.

“Seasonal markets are a community favourite, and a fantastic way to boost

local trade and activate the economy, while connecting people with vendors,” she said.

To mark the end of winter, Shepparton’s CBD will be buzzing with live music, familyfriendly activities, and mouth-watering eats from local restaurants and cafés.

Continued Page 16

Local hero recognised

By Aaron Cordy

A TWIST of fate is when someone learns first aid to become a lifeguard, only to end up working in construction, then saving a life while on a job site. That is the strange story of how Colbinabbin teen, Ned Morgan (19), saved the life of Shepparton resident John Head last year.

In November 2024, Ned Morgan was working on a home renovation in Shepparton when John’s wife Chris, began frantically calling for help as John had collapsed from cardiac arrest. With no hesitation, Ned, who had recently completed a CPR course, rushed in, assessed the situation, and began lifesaving CPR.

Ned worked on John for almost 10 minutes whilst on the phone to 000, before the ambulance came, on what was a traumatic but lucky day for all involved.

“It’s hard to explain. It's a wild day and a wild hour or so after it. It was weird, I don’t even know what to say about it,” said a humble Ned.

“It took me a couple of weeks to process what happened, to get over it a bit. I feel like if he hadn’t made it, it would’ve been a lot worse. I got lucky that he was fine. It was confronting, but then I found out he was going to make it, it got easier.”

It is believed that a person giving CPR has four minutes to get oxygen to the brain of the collapsed person, and the survival rate of a person outside of a hospital is under 10 per cent.

Three days in a coma and eight broken ribs for John, the stressful time felt by his family was not his experience.

“I wasn’t aware how serious it was until weeks later when it was explained to me exactly what had happened. It was very

It was an honour to get the Champion Award. The day and the interview was really good, and it was good that John went as well. It was a great day

Ned Morgan

traumatic for my wife and for my family, but to have somebody there that was confident enough to jump in when needed and take control of the situation, a 19-year-old kid from Colbinabbin. It is a debt that I'll owe him for life,” said John.

John isn’t the only one who recognised the amazing achievement of the remarkable young man. Ned was one of 10 people who received the St John Ambulance Victoria 2025 First Aid Champion Award at a ceremony at Marvel Stadium on Tuesday, August 12. Ned was awarded the First Aid Champion Award.

“It was an honour to get the Champion Award. The day and the interview was really good, and it was good that John went as well. It was a great day,” said Ned.

“Everyone should do first aid training, I reckon. Anyone can do it, and everyone should do it. It’s one of the easiest things you can do that can have a massive impact on other people's lives. It is important to and it is important to learn how to do it properly.”

FREE EVENTS AT SAM

There is a plethora of wonderful upcoming free events at SAM to check out.

Saturday, August 30, from 1.30 to 2.30pm - SAM Talks: Fixing the Unfixable with Nick Baylart and Robyn Ho. Registrations essential.

Saturday, August 30, from 2.30pm - SAM Talk: Introduction to the SAM Collection in Dari hosted by Sakeena (pictured).

Thursday, September 4, from 6pm to 7.15pm - SAM Deep Dives: The Many Shades of Blue with Professor Lisa Slade. Registrations essential.

Monday, September 8, from 5.30 to 6.30 - Artist Information Session: Exhibiting in SAM Selects 2026 + SAM Spotlight 2026.

Thursday, September 18, 6pm to 7.15pm - SAM Talks: “Unpacking My Collection” - Vinyl, music, and our desire to collect with Jon Dale.

CALLING ALL BUTLERS

The Butler Society is inviting people interested in Butler family history and genealogy to join an Australian/NZ gathering in Sydney from Friday, October 17 to Monday, October 20. There will be talks about Butlers who contributed to the history of Australia and NZ, and also

a very interesting presentation on the life of the 1st Chief Butler of Ireland, who was closely connected to the court of England in the 1100s, and is one of the sources of the Butler surname.

This is an opportunity for you to share your family history and to become part of a network of people who are happy to share research hints and achievements. For details visit www.butlersocietysoutherncrossregion.org or email Alan Squires on squiresa@bigpond.net.au or telephone Abigail Butler: 03 9758 6469.

WETLAND PRESENTS A UNIQUE BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY

An Expression of Interest (EoI) process is underway to find a tenant to manage the Mokoan Hub at Winton Wetlands Reserve. The Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action (DEECA) said proposals that include partnerships, joint ventures or new business ideas to support the existing cafe offering are highly encouraged to submit an EoI by 2pm, Thursday, September 11, 2025. With great views across the wetlands, the hub is a popular spot that includes cafe dining, function facilities, and a modern commercial kitchen. The Mokoan Hub was officially opened in 2015 and won the national sustainable building award in 2016 and is a focal point for visitors to the wetland.

To learn more or to submit an EoI, visit the Buying for Victoria website: www.tenders.vic.gov.au/tender/ view?id=295642

SHARE THE DIGNITY

The Wilmot Road Community Hub is running a Share the Dignity drive from the 27th of August to the 17th of September for women in need in the GV.

Access to pads and tampons is a basic need, but in Victoria 1 in 5 women reported struggling to afford period products. Wilmot Road Hub Leader Sarah Pearson will distribute donations of tampons, pads, period underwear, roll on deodorant, shampoo and conditioner between the Wilmot Road, St Georges’ Road PS and SELC Community Hub and Mooroopna Park Primary School Hub and to Courtney at Family Haven Mooroopna. Anyone will be able to access these products through these locations after the drive.

SARR CALLING FOR HELP

Shepparton Animal Rescue & Rehoming (SARR) is calling out for anyone with room in their heart and home to adopt one of their many fur babies that desperately need a new home.

Every week, pounds plead with SARR to save cats and dogs from being euthanised while they wait for rescue space. As heartbreaking as it is, their service is full, and their animals need forever homes.

Please help SARR give these dogs and cats the future they deserve.

Message them on Facebook or email Sheppanimalrescue@hotmail. com.

Hussln charity car show

Friday, September 26 9am to 1pm

THE much-loved Hussln Charity Car Show will return for its fifth and final time on Friday, September 26, the AFL Grand Final public holiday bringing together car enthusiasts and the wider community for one last celebration of chrome, horsepower and hometown spirit.

The event will run from 9am to 1pm at 51 Hogan Street, Tatura, giving locals and visitors alike the perfect way to spend the holiday morning.

Over the past five years, the event has grown into a highlight on the local calendar, raising more than $11,000 for charity, including an impressive $6,000 in 2024. All proceeds this year will again go directly to Beyond Blue and Shepparton Foodshare, two organisations making a real difference in our community.

Event founder and organiser Cam Scorey confirmed this year’s show will be the last.

“It’s been an incredible journey, but running it as a solo operation has made

it hard to continue. I’m so proud of what we’ve achieved together. With the amazing support of the community and businesses, I know this final show will be the biggest and best yet,” said Cam.

The show promises something for everyone, with trophies awarded on the day, a variety of trade stalls, and raffles packed with prizes. Already, an incredible range of donations have come in from local businesses right through to the Ring Brothers and Roadster Shop, two worldrenowned names in the US hot rod scene. Organisers are still welcoming raffle prize donations from businesses, with every contribution helping boost the fundraising efforts and support of two great causes.

Whether you’re displaying your pride and joy, browsing the stalls, or just soaking up the atmosphere, this final Hussln Charity Car Show is set to be a memorable day and the last chance to be part of a local tradition that has left a lasting legacy.

8 DAY TOUR –

$1620.00 per person double/twin share

Single supplement cost TBC.

To secure a booking on this popular tour, all you need to do is call or email: admin@fallonscobram.com.au

*Deposit payable by September 30th

Booking magic at Sirius College

By Aaron Cordy

BOOK Week is a magical time at school where kids get to let their imaginations run wild and dress as their favourite fictional characters. At Sirius College, Shepparton, the children from foundation to grade six had a ball parading their costumes to friends and family on Tuesday, August 19.

Rush for the radio

COMMUNITY radio is coming to Rushworth when 3RW officially commences its full-time programming at 10am on Monday, September 1, with an official opening planned soon.

3RW has been over a year in the making, when long-time Broadcaster, Brad Geier, fulfilled his lifelong dream of retiring in Rushworth, but was not content to stay idle. He contacted friend and fellow broadcaster Tony Jordon and came up with the idea to establish a fully operational radio station to serve the Rushworth and surrounding area.

After the exhaustive task of raising the funds to purchase the necessary licences and equipment, Brad and Tony made several trips to Rushworth to sound out support and to find a suitable place to house a studio and office, along with a transmission site.

“We were looking everywhere for something suitable when I noticed an open sign at the former council depot,” said Tony.

“As luck would have it, a meeting was

taking place, and that’s where Brad and I literally bowled in and mentioned our plans and asked who to talk to regarding the chance to utilise some space at the depot.”

With a location secured, the pair began vigorous testing of the equipment and engaging the Rushworth community for support and business advertising.

“It’s not just about running ads for the town's businesses, it’s all about building local connections to build a stronger relationship with customers and visitors whilst strengthening the local economy and allowing a direct, one-on-one opportunity for businesses to relate directly to locals, customers and visitors alike,” said Brad

“Radio is such an important medium, providing a one-on-one, personal relationship with the listener, thus also helping to alleviate social isolation and loneliness. It’s about helping the local economy whilst bringing people and the town together, resulting in strengthening this already vibrant, welcoming

and supportive town.”

3RW invites the Rushworth community to tune in to 87.6 on FM or online via their

at www.3rw.com.au or the TuneIn app, where you can listen anywhere, anytime.

Regional agriculture at risk due to public sector cuts

FARMING communities across Victoria are bracing for significant impacts as public sector job cuts threaten the vital support service that underpin the state’s regional agriculture industry.

State Member for Shepparton District, Kim O’Keeffe, expressed deep concern at proposed job cuts within Agriculture Victoria and related government departments, warning the move could undermine the state’s ability to safeguard its world-class $20B industry.

Ms O’Keeffe said Victoria’s agriculture sector employs tens of thousands of people and supports regional economies and communities, as well as supporting food

security across the nation.

“The Government needs to reconsider any reductions that would weaken frontline services and place the industry at greater risk,” she said. “Agriculture Victoria has already lost over 190 positions that were removed over the last two years as part of broader cuts to regional services and operations. We are now looking at a further estimated 350 public sector jobs being cut.”

Ms O’Keeffe highlighted a $77.6M cut from agriculture funding in the 2025/2026 state budget, $52M from the regional development fund, and critical programs such as the Goulburn Murray Valley

Area-Wide Management Fruit Fly Program, which is under significant financial pressure imposing a risk to agriculture.

“At a time when cost-of-living pressures and workplace shortages are already biting, pulling back government support and budget cuts will entrench disadvantage in regional Victoria for years to come,” said Ms O’Keeffe.

“These reductions, combined with previously reported job losses and declining service capacity in areas including bushfire response and biosecurity, risk compounding pressures on agriculture’s resilience and the infrastructure that supports regional communities.”

RAISE FUNDS GET OUTSIDE Go wild

Victoria’s local threatened species need you.

This 1–7 September, Zoos Victoria invites you to take part in Wild Week — a fundraising challenge supporting local threatened species. Walk, run, swim, or take on any wild challenge of your choice, and help us fight extinction.

Sign up today via the QR code or online at zoo.org.au/wildweek

Power saving bonus now open

VICTORIAN concession card holders are encouraged to apply for a $100 Power Saving Bonus (PSB) payment, with the State Government reinstating the program this week to help ease cost-of-living pressures.

The one-off payment provides direct support to households in need and encourages Victorians to compare energy prices and save on electricity costs.

Mooroopna Education & Activity Centre (MEAC) can assist community members with applications for the new round of PSB payments. To avoid waiting, MEAC encourages people to call 5825 1774 and make an appointment.

Applicants need to bring:

• A current residential electricity bill

RELIEF... Victorian premier Jacinta Allan announced the opening of Power Saving Bonus applications for eligible households

• A valid concession card (Health Care Card, Pensioner Concession Card, Veteran’s Affairs Pensioner Concession Card, or Veteran’s Affairs Gold Card)

• Driver’s licence or Medicare card

• Banking details for the deposit of the rebate Further information on the Power Saving Bonus can be found online: www.energy.vic.gov. au/households/help-paying-your-energy-bills

Finding wisdom

A message from Jeremy Rensford, Chair of Greater Shepparton Ministers’ Association WISDOM is such a precious commodity, many people bemoan its apparent scarcity in society. One of my joys in life is having the opportunity to regularly do public talks about faith. One of the key rules I try and follow when doing these talks (on Sundays) is what can listeners take home with them that they can apply during the upcoming week, not just hearing theory on a Sunday? Wisdom is what we all need - in so, so many ways, as life gets increasingly more complicated, nuanced, painful and difficult.

Thankfully, the Bible has so much to offer that is relevant for today in this respect. For example, there is a book within the bible called Proverbs that has thirty-one chapters. Perfect opportunity to read one chapter of wisdom a day for a whole month; invariably having a profound impact on our day-to-day existence. An opportunity to move from surviving to thriving.

Jesus said, “everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock." What a great foundation on which to build our lives, ensuring when the storms of life come, we can see things through, and continue to thrive!

I don’t hesitate in encouraging you to check out these words of wisdom for yourselves. Blessings to all.

The productivity roundtableHere’s the problem

Sam Birrell MP Federal Member for Nicholls Shadow Assistant Minister for Regional Education Shadow Assistant Minister for Regional Health

THE Labor government’s touted productivity roundtable seemed like a stunt to create an impression that one of the critical challenges faced by Australia – our falling productivity –was in fact being addressed. Many of us gave it the benefit of the doubt, because you have to discuss these issues, and having business leaders in a dialogue with our leaders. It was good that Shadow Treasurer Ted O’Brien was there and able to intervene in a Jim Chalmers bout of selfcongratulations on the economy that bore little resemblance to reality.

But here is the problem – Labor under Albanese and Chalmers is fundamentally an anti-productivity government. It is obsessed with wealth redistribution, crony capitalism and the welfare state. It is dictated to by unions, and these dictations have found their way into legislation that makes us less competitive and less productive.

Energy policy was barely discussed at the roundtable, as though everyone accepts that the transition is going swimmingly, and that cheap and affordable power will just continue as we

viability and competitiveness of business (particularly small business) last on their list of priorities when drafting legislation. This is evident in the regrettable changes to the MurrayDarling Basin Plan and in the new industrial relations laws, which have hit small businesses hard with a mountain of regulation.

an economy based on taxpayer-funded jobs is a house of cards.

move from the 24/7 electricity generation from reliable coal and gas to the intermittent nature of renewables. Anyone seriously looking at the grid and assessing the successes and failures of other nations in their energy transition would see the flaws in this. This particular energy transition is one of the biggest economic gambles Australia has ever embarked on, and the probability and consequence of getting it wrong is too horrific to contemplate.

Government ministers seem to put the

In addition, Labor is on a spending spree, with diminishing economic activity to pay back the debt in the future. According to research published by the Centre for Independent Studies (CIS) in July 2025, more than half of Australian voters rely on the government for their main income, through public-sector wages, welfare payments, or subsidies. The Institute of Public Affairs found that between August 2022 and August 2024, 82.1 per cent of new persons employed were in the public sector. It’s not to say that people who work in the public service (in many cases) don’t provide a valuable service, but

Tax was discussed, but there seems to be little appetite for real reform – and efforts by the previous coalition government to address the productivity-killing phenomenon of bracket creep were reversed by Labor. They have no plans that I can see to reform tax in a meaningful way – just crazy grabs for money like the unrealised superannuation capital gain fiasco.

What does it all mean? Well, on this pathway we are in managed decline as a nation, and that means a decline in our living standards and opportunities for our next generations. A bold government with vision and understanding of what drives the economy needs to come in and fix this trajectory, and Albanese and Chalmers’ incarnation of Labor is clearly, by its own rhetoric and actions, not that.

All-abilities basketball

ALL-ABILITIES basketball in Shepparton focuses on inclusion, fun, and community for all skill levels. The GSBA hosts competitions and skills sessions, and recently featured an all-abilities game as a curtain-raiser at a Shepparton Gators home game. If you or someone you know wants to join the fun of all-abilities basketball, scan the QR Code to register for the upcoming sessions.

ALL-ABILITIES... Shepparton all-abilities basketball is a fun and inclusive way for everyone to enjoy the game.

President

100s attend Oration

continued from front page

PROUD Yorta Yorta, Wamba Wamba, Dja Dja Wurrung and Dhudhuroa woman and co-chair of Victoria’s First Peoples’ Assembly, Ngarra Murray, who delivered a powerful speech on the opportunities for economic, social and cultural growth as Victoria progresses toward its first Treaty.

Ngarra spoke passionately about growing up in South Shepparton in the ‘80s, the connection to family and community, and the unfortunate way in which indigenous children and people were treated.

“For generations, our people have faced exclusion, discrimination and injustice in our own country, yet we have never allowed it to define us,” said Ngarra.

“Instead, we rise with pride in who we are, carrying the strength of our ancestors

and the love of our communities. We continue to walk forward with our heads held high, shaping a future where respect and equality are the foundation of our society.”

Ngarra’s passion and understanding of not only the past but building for the future was an inspiration to everyone in the room.

“Now here I am. I’m still that little Blak girl in many ways from the south end, a little older, a little wiser, holding that same fire inside,” said Ngarra.

“I stand in rooms with leaders and speak truth without fear. I’ve learnt that the truest power is not in where you start in life, but in what you stand for.

“Treaty offers us the chance to reshape the story of this country – to move from denial to truth, from division to respect, and from brokenness to healing.”

Homelessness Week

The lack of housing and homelessness across our region is a critical and urgent issue that is impacting on so many people lives in our community and it must be a priority. The Allan Labor Government are failing when it comes to housing and they must stop their city centric wasteful and irresponsible spending to get people into homes. Homelessness across the state continues to grow, showing that the government are ignoring the housing crisis and not doing what they need to do. It was great recently participating in the Salvation Army’s Walking Home Event around the Victoria Park Lake in Shepparton, to raise awareness for homelessness. It is devasting the increasing numbers of people that are homeless. Everyone deserves to have a roof over their head and a place to call home. I will continue to advocate for more housing and to support the homeless and the most vulnerable in our community.

EVSF Burns Household Budgets

The impact of the Allan Labor Government’s Emergency Services Tax will hit households across the Shepparton District, with rate notices arriving this month. The government’s underhanded tax grab will hit regional Victorians the hardest, taking millions of dollars out of households with little regard for rising cost of living pressures already felt across rural and regional Victoria. All property owners across the region are being charged more based on their property’s value, regardless of their ability to pay. This isn’t about funding emergency services, it’s about shifting costs onto regional communities to pay state budget holes. Landholders across the region are expected to contribute over $4.7 million more under the new levy compared to the previous Fire Services Property Levy, placing a heavier burden on local households and businesses. That’s why under a Liberals and Nationals Government, this tax will be scrapped.

Extra Police Resources Needed

Recently in Parliament, I called on the Minister for Police and Minister for Community Safety, Anthony Carbines, to address the significant police shortages impacted by the recent rise in family violence incidents across the electorate. An alarming 31.3 per cent increase and breach of family violence orders now sits as the number one crime in our community. I have also written to the Minister for the Prevention of Family Violence, Natalie Hutchins, requesting her support to address this alarming rise and to support the need for a dedicated Family Violence Response Team as well as increased police resources for the Shepparton Police Station. I am so grateful for our hard-working police who are doing the best that they can to keep our communities safe, but they can only manage so much with the resources that they have which is currently falling well short.

Get involved in Seniors Festival

THE Seniors Festival will run throughout October, and Greater Shepparton City Council is seeking expressions of interest from local organisations, groups and businesses interested in hosting an activity or event.

The festival offers older residents, a wide variety of free and low-cost activities under the theme ‘Connect. Create. Celebrate’.

Council is inviting groups to contribute to the festival program by hosting activities such as ‘come and try’ sessions, craft workshops, open days, gardening, exercise classes, music, entertainment, or anything that encourages participation and that senior residents may enjoy. Successful submissions will be featured in the official Seniors Festival Brochure and promoted through Council’s website and social media channels.

Mayor, Councillor Shane Sali, said the festival provides an opportunity to celebrate and recognise the value of older residents and encouraged local clubs, groups and organisations to get involved.

“Senior residents are at the heart of our community and their contribution is

expressions of

and

for

from

something we should all acknowledge and celebrate,” he said.

If you think your organisation could host a great event for seniors,

please fill-in the expression of interest application form on Council’s website shaping.greatershepparton.com.au/ greater- shepparton-seniors-festival-2025

Expressions of Interest close at 11.59pm on 1 September 2025. For more information contact Council’s Access & Positive Ageing Officer on (03) 5832 9700.

Renewable energy zone

THE State Government has created a new renewable energy zone west of Shepparton without notifying those who live in the zone.

The draft Central North renewable zone covered a very large area between Bendigo and Shepparton, and aroused significant opposition from farmers and locals

who stressed the importance of protecting the irrigation district and productive farmland within the draft zone.

In response, the Victorian government’s final transmission plan has reduced the size of the zone to the east of Shepparton, but at the same time created an entirely new renewable energy zone west of Shepparton,

from Pine Lodge to Glenrowan. The new western half of the Central North REZ was not part of the draft Central North zone, and farmers and locals within the area did not know their land was being considered for inclusion within the zone.

Family fun at Winter City Market

/SheppartonAdviser

The Goulburn and Murray Valleys’ largest circulating newspaper Call 5832 8900

continued from front page

MAYOR, Councillor Shane Sali, encouraged community members to attend the market and shop local. “The Winter City Market presents a fantastic opportunity to activate the local economy and enjoy our public spaces such as the Maude Street precinct, it’s wonderful seeing the community coming together and

exploring what the CBD has to offer,” he said. A highlight of this year’s program is the debut of the Youth Talent Show, open to performers aged 5 to 25. From 10am to 1pm on Saturday, emerging talent will take the stage at the Maude Street Precinct, welcoming all talents and experience levels. Performers will go in the draw to win a $50 gift card and sweet treats.

Lock in the Trade Expo

SECURING the home with reliable locks is one of the most important things you can do for your peace of mind.

To help you secure that peace of mind, Solar City Locksmith is holding a free Trade Expo at their new location, 128-132 Fryers Street, Shepparton, on Wednesday, September 3, from 3.30pm to 7pm.

It is an opportunity for everyone, whether their needs are commercial, domestic or automotive locks to come and connect with leading suppliers, see the latest products in action, and gain valuable

industry insights from: LSC, Assa Abloy, Lock & Key and API. As well as lucky door prizes and a "Guess the code" safe challenge.

“We're hosting our first Trade Expo to showcase the wide range of products and services that solar city can offer, alongside an introduction to our new location and showroom,” said Solar City Locksmith owner Keegan Moylan,

For more information about Solar City Locksmiths Trade Expo, call 03 5831 4411 or visit www.solarcitylocksmiths.com.au.

Outreach in Tatura

GREATER Shepparton City Council will continue its Customer Service Outreach Program, which began in August 2024. Initially delivered in partnership with Neighbourhood Houses across the region, the program was designed to bring Council services closer to residents by placing Customer Service staff directly in local communities.

Council’s Director Corporate Services, Chris Teitzel, said the initiative has made it easier for residents to access Council services, enabling them to speak directly with staff, make enquiries and payments, and log service requests without needing to travel to Council offices.

“Following a successful pilot and strong

COMMUNITY OUTREACH... Greater Shepparton City Council will continue its Customer Service Outreach Program. Delivered in partnership with Neighbourhood Houses across the region.

Photo: Supplied

community engagement, we are pleased to continue the program exclusively in Tatura, where it has been especially well received by residents,” said Mr Teitzel.

Through this ongoing service, Council remains committed to strengthening communication, addressing local concerns, and delivering accessible and responsive services to residents who may find it challenging to visit the main offices in the Shepparton CBD.

Council’s Customer Service staff will be available from 10am to 3pm on the 2nd and 4th Wednesday of each month at: Tatura Community House, 12–16 Casey Street, Tatura.

The Productivity Roundtable -

Here’s the Problem

the impression that Australia’s falling productivity was being addressed. Many gave it the benefit of the doubt, as dialogue with business leaders is important, but Shadow Treasurer Ted O’Brien had to intervene in a bout of self-congratulation from Jim Chalmers that bore little resemblance to reality.

Labor under Albanese and Chalmers is fundamentally anti-productivity. Obsessed with wealth redistribution, crony capitalism, and the welfare state, it is dictated to by unions, and this influence has shaped legislation that makes Australia less competitive and less productive.

Energy policy was barely discussed, as though the transition to renewables is smooth and affordable power will simply continue. Anyone seriously examining the grid or other nations’ experiences would see the flaws in this risky transition - one of the biggest economic gambles Australia has ever faced.

Labor often puts business viability last, evident in the changes to the Murray-Darling Basin Plan and new industrial relations laws, which have hit small businesses with heavy regulation. Labor is also on a spending spree, while economic activity slows.

Research shows a growing proportion of Australians rely on government income, creating a fragile economic base.

Tax reform is absent; bracket creep remains unaddressed, and schemes like the unrealised superannuation capital gains proposal create uncertainty.

On this path, Australia faces managed decline, with falling living standards and fewer opportunities for future generations. Bold, visionary leadership is needed - Labor’s approach offers no solution.

$60,000 in Grants for

Local Volunteer Organisations

Seventeen hardworking volunteer organisations will share in over $60,000 in funding from the Federal Government’s Volunteer Grants Program. This program supports the invaluable work of volunteers by offering upskilling opportunities, helping to recruit new members, and fostering stronger connections with the community. Across our region, thousands of volunteers dedicate their time and energy to incredible causes. Our communities simply couldn’t thrive without their selfless efforts. Once again, this grant program was oversubscribed - a clear sign of the ongoing need for more regionally focused community grants.

• Seymour Performers’ Workshop

• Rushworth Community House Inc.

• Christmas For Those Alone Incorporated

• Colbinabbin Town Recreation Reserve Committee of Management

• Kyabram Plaza Committee

• Wunghnu Fire Brigade

• Neighbourhood House Murchison

• Rushworth Bowls Club Inc.

• “The Cubby” - Shepparton Toy Library

• Tatura Cricket Club Inc.

• Tungamah Bowling Club Inc.

• Country Fire Authority

• Yarrawonga Mulwala Swimming Club

• Love In Action Broadford

• Echuca South Cricket Club

• Eastern Lions Kart Club

• Caroline Chisholm Society

BROWBANDS pony size with rosettes, brand new $20

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CARRY case with 35 rock/pop cassettes from the 70s/80s vgc $35 the lot Ph: 03 5821 8998 OFFICE chair come area on 4 castors height adjustable, brown colour $5 Ph: 5821 1854

DUBLIN jodpurs sz 16 $10 Ph: 03 5484 6237

SPARK PLUG extra long tube spanners, 1 x 230mm long and 1 x 330mm long $10 for lot Ph: 0408 389 247

GVL FINALS WEEK 1 PREVIEWS

QUALIFYING FINAL KYABRAM v ROCHESTER

Kyabram’s last six weeks have told two very different tales - facing off against three of the bottom four teams between Rounds 13–15 and then confronting the teams sitting 3rd, 4th, and now 5th in the final three weeks. The end result was just as eclectic, combined wins of 350 points against Tatura, Benalla, and United, followed by their only two losses of the year in Rounds 16 and 18. They lost by one point to Mansfield after storming home with five goals to two in the final quarter and then trailed from start to finish against the Swans. In that game, the Swans kicked eight first-quarter goals and led by 33 points at the first break. The rest of the game was tame in comparison, the Swans winning the next two quarters six goals to three before another late Kyabram charge. The Bombers kicked six goals from 11 scoring shots in the final term to eventually lose by 34 points. It was only the fifth time in 18 games that the Bombers had not scored 100+ points, and in two of those they finished in the nineties. Here are some points of concern, although on reflection they may be a little unfair on the individuals concerned. In the last two weeks, Charlie Barnett has kicked one goal, but prior to that he had been nothing short of sensational - kicking four goals or more in 10 of the preceding 16 games. Riley Ironside has kicked just one goal in the last three weeks, having bagged 43 in the 15 games before this out-of-form run. Rochester has the best defence in the competition - the only team not to have allowed opposition clubs to kick 1000 points against them in the 18 home and away games. Only one team, the Bombers in Round 11 (107 points), has managed to kick 100+ points in a game against the Tigers. And that took an eight-goal final term after Kyabram led by just 15 points at three-quarter time. Prediction: Kyabram by 21 points.

ELIMINATION FINAL #2 MANSFIELD v SHEPPARTON BEARS

17. There are another eight Bears ranked inside the top 100, with high-possession, goalkicking forward Lewis McShane at number 19, while co-coaches Ted Lindon and Xavier Stevenson are both in the top 40. Mansfield has been the form team of the second half of 2025. They won their first three games but lost to Kyabram (1st), Rochester (2nd), and Echuca (4th) in the next month. Since that Round 7 game, they have won 10 games and had the only draw of the season—with Rochester. When these teams have played each other it has been Mansfield in control, leading from start to finish in Round 6 this year when they recorded a 17 point win on the back of vice captain Tom Dunstan’s best game of the year and three goals from Hogan.

Prediction: Mansfield by 7 points.

ELIMINATION FINAL #1 ECHUCA v SHEPPARTON SWANS

Neither of these clubs has been super impressive at both ends of the ground, so it will come down to their midfield battle to decide who gets to continue in the race for the 2025 GVL title. Mansfield has the second-best offensive unit but is ranked well behind all of the remaining five finals combatants when it comes to defence. They have given up almost 300 more points than the best defence, Rochester, and 100 more than the Swans’ defence. Shepparton does both at a “middle of the road level”, having the fourth best attack and the 4th best offence. They have only has one team score 100 points or more against them, in Round 5 against Echuca. Bears star Luke Smith makes a big difference when he is up and going. He didn’t play in last year’s one sided grand final, but is going into this finals series on a hot streak – the Bears only top 10 ranked player for 2025. The Bears’ season has been far from smooth sailing - winning their first four games by 101, 87, 74, and 39 points before losing five straight games to four of the other top six teams. Since a Round 10 bye, however, they have lost just once - to Mansfield by 15 points. They will go into the Mansfield game confident that ruckman Ash Holland can give them an advantage and that their defensive leaders - Ted Lindon and Bryce Stephenson—can break even with the likes of Hugh Byrne and Liam Tenace. Mansfield has only nine players ranked in the top 100 in the league, three fewer than ladder leader Kyabram and one less than the Bears. The Eagles’ highest-ranked player this year is Matthew King (these rankings are solely based on statistical output). King is ranked 7th, with Nick Gray ranked 14th and Callum Brown 27th— all midfielders. Apart from their leading goalkicker, Billy Hogan (54 goals and ranked 36th), and intercept defender Dirk Koenen (31st), they do not feature again until the 70s. For the Bears, the freakish Luke Smith is ranked number 6, with ruckman Ash Holland at

Four years ago Echuca started an amazing run that broke a 20 year premiership drought, winning the 2022 GVL senior title and then completing a hat-trick in the next two years. This year has been far from perfect, injuries to stars have caused them no end of trouble, but never write a champion off and while they may be limping into the finals series – they are there, and anything could happen. Since COVID saw the 2020 season abandoned the club has won 11 out of 12 titles in the three football grades. They go into this season again with all three teams represented, but in the unusual position of not being favourite in any of those grades. If you compare Echuca’s 2024 premiership team to the one that beat Mooroopna by 107 points on the weekend, there are just 10 familiar faces: Sam Reid, Cam Valentine, Hugh Byrne, Jackson Stewart, Aiden Mills, Lachlan Watson, Mitch Wales, Riley Smith, Liam Tenace, and Baxter Slater. They face a challenge in the Swans that was underlined by the team’s final round domination of Kyabram. The Swans are the third-best defence but are fifth when it comes to offensive work. Their season has been up and down, to say the very least—winning the first seven games, losing four of the next six, and then beating the top team in the final round. For the Swans, unsurprisingly, ball magnet Nathan Hrovat (who has a 257 ranking point game to his credit this season) is their top-ranked player at number 8, and his partner in crime - ruckman Mark Kovacevic - is next best at number 15. From there, however, it isn’t until number 55 that the Swans next rate a mention - through defender Kade Anderson. They have six players ranked from positions 79 to 96. What is really surprising is that the Echuca team has the lowest number of players ranked inside the Top 100 of any finals combatant this season – just five. While the rankings aren’t totally indicative of player impact, they do show that the Murray Bombers have been missing some significant star power this year. At number 27 (ask any of his opponents and he would be ranked much higher than that) is Sam Reid, the first Echuca player to get a mention. Captain Mitch Wales is the 25th-ranked player in the GVL (by the ranking points system), and Hugh Byrne comes in at number 39. From there, however, it is just Jackson Stewart (47) and Riley Smith (93) who are in the top 100. Statistically, there is very little separating these two teams. The Swans have scored just 76 more points than Echuca points in 18 games this season and when it comes to defence there is just 80 points separating the pair. That’s close! When the teams played for the only time this year, in Round 8, just six goals were scored in the first three quarters, five of them by Echuca. They led by 23 points and ended up winning up three goals in a low scoring game. Oliver Warburton, who started the season in great form, was BOG and Sam Reid was at his fearless best for the winning Murray Bombers. Now injured Jack Evans was also great in the win. Prediction: Echuca by 11 points.

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THE THINGS WE LEARNT: COLLINGWOOD ARE BACK TO THEIR OLD WAYS

ANDREW SLEVISON AND NICHOLAS QUINLAN

Collingwood of old

It has taken them 24 rounds, but finally Collingwood has achieved a season first.

They’ve managed to win a match after trailing at three-quarter time. They were only down by 10 points to Melbourne, but nonetheless, the Magpies were able to overturn the deficit and close out the game by six points in yet another nail-biting finish between these two sides.

In the previous three seasons under Craig McRae, the ability of the Magpies to come back from three-quarters time has been their ace up their sleeve.

They had found themselves in that position 32 times and managed to win 15 of these games, with the bulk of those coming during McRae’s first two seasons in charge, which saw his men claim their 16th V/AFL Premiership.

This season, however, they had found themselves behind at three-quarter time on five separate occasions, having failed to win any, with those all being against GWS, Gold Coast, Brisbane, Hawthorn and Adelaide, who they’ll play at least one of in September.

For the Magpies, it’s the win they needed to help steady their season after losing five of their last seven matches. Coupled with Gold Coast’s loss to Port, it means that they are assured a topfour spot (barring GWS wins by 100+ points)

And it might just be the spark that reminds them of who they are as they return to finals football after a year’s hiatus.

A winning end is fool’s gold for Carlton

Some sections of Carlton fans would be fairly happy with a couple of wins to end a disappointing season.

But there would be other Bluebaggers seething with how 2025 played out.

The Blues entered the campaign as possible premiership contenders but finished it well out of the finals race with just nine wins.

A positive end to the season with comfortable victories over Port Adelaide and then Essendon will have some fans feeling good about themselves.

But is it fool’s gold?

Michael Voss and his coaching staff (whoever that ends up being) have plenty of work to do in the off-season.

The rabid and starving supporter base demands it. Wins in Round 23 and 24 won’t satisfy them.

What went wrong in 2025? And what will 2026 bring? Don’t worry, you’ve only got about seven months to stew on it. It starts with list management this trade period.

Did we also learn that Tom De Koning is definitely gone? His speech after his 100th game suggests so...

For Essendon, the nightmare season continues into next week with their final fixture against the Suns on the Gold Coast.

They’ve lost 12 in a row and have been forced to debut 15 players - an unprecedented number.

The injury curse has denied the Dons any real chance of winning games in the second half of the season but at least they’ve been able to get some development into the kids.

One more game to get through then it’s tools down, take a breath and reset for next year.