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Rumbalara Staff NEWSLETTER

Werra Spring Edition

Rumbalara Staff Newsletter – Internal Use Only This newsletter is created exclusively for Rumbalara staff. It contains internal updates, info, and good yarns just for our team. Please respect confidentiality and do not share or distribute this content outside the organisation without prior permission.

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Table of Contents TOPIC

PAGE No.

From our CEO.....................................................................................................................................................3 - 8 Team Updates...................................................................................................................................................9 - 24 Health News and Support.........................................................................................................................25 - 28 Community Corner.......................................................................................................................................29 - 45 Key Events and Dates..................................................................................................................................46 - 48 Cultural Corner..................................................................................................................................................49 Easy Recipes.......................................................................................................................................................50 - 51 Locations...............................................................................................................................................................52 Connect with Us ..............................................................................................................................................53 Thank You..............................................................................................................................................................54

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Rumbalara Staff CEO MESSAGE

Werra (Spring) Edition

A Message from the CEO, Felicia Dean As we move through Werra (Spring), it's a wonderful opportunity to reflect on the work happening across Rumbalara and recognise the dedication, care and commitment our people bring to Community every day. While our roles may be different, we are all working towards a shared purpose, strengthening our Community, supporting wellbeing and creating opportunities for our people to thrive. Our newsletters are a great reflection of that collective effort. I’d like to acknowledge our Better Futures Community Connections team, which has received statewide recognition for the second consecutive year for its outstanding workplan and outcomes reporting. This demonstrates the quality of our programs and, the positive opportunities being created for our young people. It's also pleasing to see the continued work of our Youth and Justice Services team, particularly through the Youth Hub, school holiday activities and programs that strengthen cultural connection, confidence and positive pathways for our young people. Another achievement worth celebrating is the recognition of Lotjpa Yapaneyepuk, a collaborative initiative involving Rumbalara, Goulburn Valley Health and the Border Medical Oncology Research Unit, through the Victorian Public Healthcare Awards. This work highlights the importance of Aboriginal-led approaches, cultural safety and genuine partnerships in improving health outcomes for our people. Looking ahead, our Annual General Meeting in November provides an important opportunity to reflect on the past year, recognise our achievements and continue shaping Rumbalara's future. As we approach the final months of 2026, I encourage everyone to remain focused on our shared priorities and the positive impact we can achieve together. Finally, thank you to everyone for your ongoing commitment to Rumbalara. Felicia Dean Chief Executive Officer Rumbalara Aboriginal Co-operative

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VACCHO Media Release VACCHO welcomes new Board Chairperson and Directors

The Victorian Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation (VACCHO) is delighted to announce the appointment of proud Yorta Yorta woman Felicia Dean as its new Board Chairperson, following this week’s Annual General Meeting (AGM) held in Naarm (Melbourne). Felicia is the CEO of Rumbalara Aboriginal Cooperative and has served as a Director on the VACCHO Board for several years. She brings a wealth of experience in Aboriginal Affairs, along with a strong commitment to self-determination and Aboriginal Community control. Felicia is a passionate advocate for community-led approaches that respond to the unique needs of Aboriginal communities. VACCHO is also pleased to welcome two new Directors to the Board: proud Gunditjmara woman Emily Fary and proud Gunaikurnai woman Rachel Clulow. Emily is the Chair of the Board at Bendigo and District Aboriginal Co-operative (BDAC) and brings extensive experience in Aboriginal Community Controlled governance and strategic leadership. Emily works as a Koorie Education Coordinator and is passionate about improving education outcomes for young Mob. Rachel is the Community Services Manager at Lake Tyers Health and Children’s Services and brings more than a decade of experience in Aboriginal Community Controlled health and community services, including leadership, program delivery, governance and stakeholder engagement. She has also worked for a number of Aboriginal Organisations across East Gippsland. VACCHO also welcomes back Josh Tuiono who joined the Board as a casual vacancy in 2026 and has now been formally appointed. The other returning Board Directors are Simon Flagg, John Bell and Paula Morgan, who had also stepped into the role of Chairperson for a short period in 2026. VACCHO extends its thanks and appreciation to outgoing Chairperson, proud Dja Dja Wurrung and Wiradjuri man Michael Graham, for his leadership, dedication and service to VACCHO and our Members. VACCHO looks forward to working alongside Felicia and the Board as we continue advocating for vibrant, healthy, self-determining Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities across Victoria. Media enquiries

VACCHO MEDIA: For further media enquiries please email communications@vaccho.org.au or contact our media unit on (03) 9411 9411.

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Notice of Rumbalara Aboriginal Co-Operative

Annual General Meeting for the period of 2025/2026 Financial Year Date:

Thursday 26th November

Venue: 2026 Activity Centre - Rumbalara Elders Facility 95 Ford Road, Shepparton Time: 5:30pm (Doors will open for Registration from 4:30pm)

BOARD VACANCIES There will be Two (2) Board Positions available for Nomination. (2 x 3 year terms) Nominations will be open from 9:00am Thursday 15th October and close on Thusday 5th November, 5:00 pm. (no late applications will be accepted). Nomination forms are available from Rumbalara Aboriginal Cooperative, Corporate Reception, 39 Archer Street, Mooroopna. If you know someone that you think would contribute on the Board of Directors, please encourage them to apply.

**Please Note: You must be a registered Member to vote at an AGM

Any queries please contact: Brad Farr -bfarr@auslect.com.au or 1800 224 420 Please note: Pursuant to the rules of the Rumbalara Aboriginal CoOperative Ltd, Australian Electoral Company has been appointed as the returning Officer for the November 2026 Board Elections Brad Farr -bfarr@auslect.com.au or 1800 224 420

Reminder to update your addresses, to keep up to date with the latest information.

Phone: 5820 0000

www.rumbalara.org.au

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End of Year Notice

TO: ALL STAFF (Internal e-mail only) RE: Rumbalara Aboriginal Co-operative Planned leave over Christmas shutdown 2026/2027 __________________________________________________________________________________

To All Staff, Rumbalara will close for the Christmas holiday period from 12pm on Wednesday 23rd December 2026 and re-open on Monday 4th January 2027.

The closure period will be comprised of the following public holidays, Christmas bonus days and annual leave: Wednesday 23 December 2026 – Last Day of Work (Finish at 12pm) Thursday 24 December 2026 - Bonus Day Friday 25 December 2026 - Christmas Day (public holiday) Monday 28 December 2026 – Boxing Day (public holiday) Tuesday 29 December 2026 - Bonus Day Wednesday 30 December2026 – Bonus Day Thursday 31st December 2026 - Annual leave Friday 01 January 2027 – New Years Day (public holiday) Monday 04th January 2027 – RAC re-opens

We recognise that whilst most staff can access these leave dates; we know that our staff at the Elders Facility, Family Care & Early Years, Public Intoxication Unit and our Women’s and Children Accommodation service will need to be rostered through those days. In recognition of this, staff who are rostered/directed to work on those days will be remunerated as follows: If staff work on a Public Holiday, they will be paid according to their award. If staff are rostered/directed to work on a RAC Bonus Day, they can elect to have the time accrued as leave OR opt to have the time worked paid at their current base rate of pay.

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End of Year Notice

Annual Leave days: Staff not covered under the SCHADS Award will be required to take annual leave for days not covered by public holidays or RAC bonus days during the closure. For staff who are employed under the SCHADS Award and do not wish to take leave during the closure are directed to notify your manager and People & Culture no later than the 01 December 2026 so alternate work arrangements can be made at one of our 24/7 service areas. Emergency Contacts: • People & Culture: Neil Maher – 0455 263 658 • Justice & Community Services: Shannon Balfour – 0456 686 383 • Family Services: Sue Williams – 0488 200 970 • Assets & Infrastructure: Mick Buckworth – 0459 921 185 • PADS & REF: Aaron Chambers – 0455 316 751 Dental: GVH dental clinic – ph. 58 323050 Medical: GV Hospital – ph. 58 322322 Nurse on call – 1300 60 60 24 All other emergencies call 000

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Rumbalara Staff TEAM UPDATES

Werra (Spring) Edition

FROM THE COMMUNICATIONS DESK A big thank you to all teams who have contributed content to this edition — the strong level of participation across the organisation is fantastic to see. Your willingness to share updates, achievements and stories helps showcase the breadth of work happening every day across Rumbalara. The newsletter is a valuable way for staff to stay informed about what other departments are working on, strengthening our understanding of each other’s roles and the collective impact we have on community. It also provides an opportunity to celebrate successes, highlight innovation and recognise the dedication of our teams. We really appreciate the time taken to provide content, and encourage everyone to continue sharing stories, updates and milestones throughout the year. The more we contribute, the more connected and informed we all become.

Vic and Nat (Rumbalara, Communications and Public Relations)

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Helpful Hints for Content Development The content you share with us helps us shape an informative and fun newsletter. One of the challenges we sometimes experience when receiving information, is not always having the full context needed to confidently turn it into a clear and engaging story. Providing a little extra information upfront helps us share your work accurately, efficiently and in a way that truly reflects the impact of what you and the team have been up to. When sending through content, it’s helpful to include:

1. WHAT IS THIS ABOUT? A short explanation of the activity, program, event or initiative.

2. WHY IS THIS IMPORTANT? What difference does this make for community, clients or staff?

3. WHO WAS INVOLVED?

Team names, partners, guest speakers or community groups.

4. WHEN AND WHERE DID IT HAPPEN? Dates help ensure information is timely and accurate.

5. QUOTES OR KEY MESSAGES (IF AVAILABLE)

A sentence or two from a staff member, participant or partner helps bring the story to life.

6. PHOTOS

Images help us visually showcase your work (ensuring appropriate consent has been obtained).

7. ANY DEADLINES Let us know if content relates to a specific date, campaign or event.

The more context we receive, the easier it is for us to develop strong, engaging content that reflects the important work happening across Rumbalara. Thank you for continuing to share your stories with us — it helps keep our staff, community and stakeholders informed, connected and proud of the work we do together. Page 11

Helpful Hints for PHOTOGRAPHY QUICK GUIDE 1. t Taking Great Photos on Your iPhone

CLEAN YOUR LENS

Before taking a photo, genty wipe your camera lens with a soft cloth. A smudged lens can make your photos look blurry or cloudy.

USE NATURAL LIGHT WHERE POSSIBLE

Take photos near a window, outdoors, or in a bright space. Try to avoid taking photos with strong light behind your subject.

TAP TO FOCUS

Before taking the photo, tap the screen on the person or object you want to focus on. This helps keep the main subject clear.

THINK ABOUT THE BACKGROUND

Check what is behind the subject. Move bins, bags, clutter or anything distracting out of the fram where possible.

USE PORTRAIT OR LANDSCAPE

Use portrait/upright photos for people, social media stories and posters. Use landscape/sideways photos for group shots, events, website banners and newsletters.

DONT ZOOM TOO MUCH

Try moving closer instead of zooming in. too much. Zooming can make photos look grainy or blurry.

TAKE A FEW OPTIONS

Take several photos from slightly different angles. This gives you choices when selecting the best image.

LEAVE SPACE AROUND THE SUBJECT

Leaving space around the subject also helps when photos need to be cropped for newsletters or social media.

Check the photo before sending t Before sharing, quickly check that the photo is clear, well-lit and appropriate. Make sure everyone in the photo is comfortable being photographed and has provided consent where required.

Spring Edition Newsletter 2026

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Open the FACEBOOK app

Tap search bar & go to Rumbalara Aboriginal Cooperative Page

Press the follow button / once following press the button again Now in the follow settings press feed / in feed priority press the Favorites option

Once done refresh page to check Rumbalara Aboriginal Cooperative app is your Favorite Spring Edition Newsletter 2026

REMINDER

SNAKE SEASON

Just a reminder that snake season has well and truly started. Our grounds staff have already been seeing an unusually high number of snakes in and around the Medical Site and Youth Hub at 10 and 20 Rumbalara Road. Please stay alert when walking around these sites. If you come across a snake: Do not attempt to approach, move or catch it yourself. Keep your distance and make others in the area aware of its presence. Allow the snake to move away naturally.

A snake will generally try to avoid people and will move away if given the opportunity. They will normally make their way towards bush or another safe area. Problems generally occur when a snake is cornered, feels threatened, or enters an area where it cannot escape. A snake catcher only needs to be contacted if the snake becomes trapped in an area where it cannot get out or is attempting to hide in a building or other enclosed area. Please take care and keep an eye out while moving around these sites. Mick Buckworth

People and Culture Arrivals At Rumbalara, we know that every team member plays a part in shaping our story. As we welcome new faces and bid farewell to others, we take a moment to reflect on the importance of these transitions. Arrivals: We’re excited to welcome our new staff who bring fresh perspectives, unique talents, and a shared passion for making a difference. Each new arrival is a reminder of the growth and future possibilities ahead.

Alice Briggs: Reception Vanessa McKnight: REF Sharyn Forrester: REF Maddison Thorpe: Justice & Community Services Angela Tennant: Family Care & Early Years Ikwa Das: REF Sheena Scott: Family, Care and Early Years Shahla Sithara Naduvil Parambil: Dental Clinic Tahlia Hexter: REF Michael Heland: REF Ashitha Vayal Parambath: Health & Wellbeing Cynthia Duncan Corporate Sevices Petricia Donatus: Health & Wellbeing Pranavi Ravula: Dental Clinic Kira-Ann Winmar: REF Matthew Cardinali: Health & Wellbeing Jamaron Atkinson: Health & Wellbeing Femi George: REF Katrina Atkinson: REF Dylan Louie: Health & Wellbeing Bernice Deb Kiley: Family Care & Early Years Ryan Fullgrabe: Justice & Community Services

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People and Culture Departures Departures: We also say goodbye to those who are moving on to new adventures. While their departure leaves a space in our team, we celebrate the contributions they’ve made and the positive impact they leave behind. Ebony Woolstencroft: Health and Wellbeing Services Gurmeet Kaur: REF Jaime Mackay: Corporate Services Michelle Jukes: Aged Care and Disability Services Valerie Scott: REF Shannon Smith: Housing and Infrastructure Nick Roberts: Housing and Infrastructure Nerrissa Leitch: Family, Care and Early Years Klarindah Hudson: Family, Care and Early Years Steve Brown: Health and Wellbeing Services Brenton White: Family, Care and Early Years Kim Trevaskis: Family, Care and Early Years Scott Justin: Justice and Community Services Liz Eliason: Health and Wellbeing Services Renee Walsh: Justice and Community Services Shaneka Dooly: Family, Care and Early Years Jessy Naissery: Joy REF Meisha Ingram: Family, Care and Early Years Kelli Bartlett: Health and Wellbeing Services Roslyn Atkinson: Corporate Services Jamal Sharif: Justice and Community Services Tracey Kearns: Health and Wellbeing Services

Spring Edition Newsletter 2026

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People and Culture Job Opportunities Communications & Public Relations Senior Officer Location: Corpoate Services Applications Close: Monday 19th October

📍 📅

APPLY HERE

Program Manager Family Services Location: Family, Care and Early Years Applications Close: Wednesday 4th Novemeber

📍 📅

APPLY HERE

Team Leasder Early Years Location: Family Care & Early Years Applications Close: Tuesday 20th October

📍 📅

APPLY HERE

Home Interaction Program for Parents and Youngsters (HIPPY) Coordinator Location: Family, Care and Early Years Applications Close: Tuesday 3rd November

📍 📅

APPLY HERE

Live-in Mentors – Village 21 Location: Family, Care and Early Years Applications Close: Tuesday 3rd November

📍 📅

APPLY HERE Receptionist - CORP Location: Corpoate Services Applications Close: Wednesday 28th October

📍 📅

APPLY HERE Rostering Officer Location: Corpoate Services Applications Close: no date

📍 📅

APPLY HERE Restorative Justice Worker Location: Justice & Community Services Applications Close: Tuesday 3rd November

📍 📅

APPLY HERE Program Manager ICT Location: Corporate Services Applications Close: Wednesday 4th Novemeber

📍 📅

APPLY HERE

Spring Edition Newsletter 2026

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Health and Wellbeing

Winter Edition Newsletter 2026

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RUMBALARA BOXING SESSIONS We've listened to community feedback and made some changes to help make boxing more accessible.

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Health and Wellbeing

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Women’s Group at Woongi Unit Our Women’s Group meets every Friday from 11:00am – 2:00pm at 170 Knight Street, Shepparton, Providing a welcoming space for women to connect, share and support one another. Our clients have been enjoying a great mix of activities, learning opportunities and outings recently! We headed out for a fun day of bowling, put our creativity to work with an op-shop challenge, and enjoyed a visit to the car museum to check out the impressive collection. We also had two of our talented clients share their skills by teaching others how to crochet — a wonderful opportunity to learn, connect and share knowledge within our community. It’s been a fantastic time of getting out, trying new things and learning from each other!

Photos: Women’s Group

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FAMILY, CARE & EARLY YEARS For the 2nd year in a row Rumbalara Better Futures Community Connections Program has received statewide recognition from DFFH for our Workplan and Outcomes report. This is something I am extremely proud of, having developed the Workplan 2 years in a row as Community Connector and now as Team Leader overseeing the space. We are currently recruiting to the Community Connections position and with a sound workplan developed we will be well placed to for further achievements.

Statement from Chloe Bennett - DFFH: "Recently I prepared and delivered a presentation to East Division Wide Services on Community Connections. I spoke about the intent of the role and how it links in with the Better Futures program more broadly. I gave examples of some fantastic place-based support and activities that had occurred as part of the Community Connections program across the East Division in 2025-26. As part of the presentation, I shared the video that Rumbalara had created recapping their Community Connections activities for 202526 as a way of demonstrating what a well-established and well-planned Community Connections program could achieve across a year. The feedback from colleagues across the East was instant and wholly positive. Feedback included: ‘Wow, this is so fantastic, so many great programs and activities - Well Done Rumbalara!!!’ ‘Loved to see the breadth of programs/opportunities offered’ ‘Brilliant opportunities for young people.’ Additionally, I shared the Rumbalara Community Connections outcomes report and Directions Plan with APSS colleagues in Metro to demonstrate what a high caliber report and plan looks like. Becc M also shared the Rumbalara Community Connections video with the Central DFFH Transitions from Care team. I am eager to see what the Rumbalara Community Connections program can achieve in 2026-27"

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Justice and Community Youth and Justice Services has continued to make positive progress, with a strong focus on youth engagement, cultural connection, restorative justice and building staff capability. The Youth Hub remains a key culturally safe space for young people, providing recreational, cultural, wellbeing and life-skills activities. The Hub is transitioning to a more targeted age structure, with Monday to Wednesday focused on high school-aged young people and Thursdays dedicated to primary school-aged children. Planning is also underway for a Youth Advisory Committee, while new cultural activities, including weaving sessions facilitated by local Aboriginal women, are set to commence each Wednesday this term.

The September School Holiday Program provided young people with a range of positive recreational, social, sporting and educational experiences through activities at Fun Planet, Ikon Park (Carlton Football Club) and Movies and Bowling. Across the three activities, 40 attendances were recorded from 60 registered places, resulting in an overall attendance rate of 67%. The program supported young people's social connection, physical activity, positive peer relationships and engagement with staff, while providing opportunities to build confidence, experience new environments and develop an understanding of positive pathways. Activities were delivered safely and effectively, with staff providing appropriate supervision, behavioural support and engagement throughout, and ensuring young people were safely returned to parents and carers at the conclusion of each activity.

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Justice and Community Galnya Wurta Youth Sport and Recreation Support Program Applications Still Open Galnya Wurta is continuing to accept applications from families looking to support young community members seeking to participate in sport and recreational activities. The program aims to reduce financial barriers and encourage young people to stay active, connected, and engaged in their chosen activities. Funding may be available to assist with costs directly related to participation, including: Sporting club or competition registrations Uniforms and sporting apparel Essential equipment and gear Other approved items required for the young person's chosen sport or recreational activity. Whether a young person is just starting out or already involved in their sport, Galnya Wurta may be able to provide assistance to help them continue pursuing their interests and goals. A dedicated email address has now been established to make enquiries and applications easier. For more information or to request an application form, please contact: Galnyawurta@raclimited.com.au Community members are encouraged to share this opportunity with families, young people, coaches, schools, and sporting clubs to help ensure eligible participants can access the support available.

Spring Edition Newsletter 2026

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HEALTH NEWS & SUPPORTS

Werra (Spring) Edition

Spring Edition Newsletter 2026

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Health & Wellbeing Mental health Supports

📍 Local & National Mental Health Support Services No matter what you’re going through—there’s help available close to home and across the country. 🧠💛

🧑‍🎓 HEADSPACE

🏥 GOULBURN VALLEY HEALTH –

SHEPPARTON (AGES 12–25)

MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES

Community-based

support,

counselling,

and crisis response for people experiencing mental health challenges.

YYouth-friendly counselling, programs, and support services for young people navigating mental health, relationships, and life challenges.

Contact:

Location: 147 Wyndham St, Shepparton VIC

Phone: (03) 5832 2222

Phone: (03) 5820 5900

Website: gvhealth.org.au

Website: headspace.org.au/shepparton

🌊 BEYOND BLUE

👨‍👩‍👧 SHEPPARTON FAMILY CARE

Support and resources for anxiety,

Family-focused services including mental health support, counselling, and assistance with parenting, relationships, and more.

depression, and general mental health. You can call for a chat, access information, or join online forums.

Contact:

Phone: (03) 5821 2600

Phone: 1300 22 4636

Website: sheppfamcare.org.au

Website: beyondblue.org.au

☎️ Lifeline Australia – 24/7 Crisis Support

Free, confidential support for anyone experiencing emotional distress or at risk of suicide—available any time, day or night. Contact: Phone: 13 11 14 Website: lifeline.org.au

🌈 You're never alone.

Whether it’s big or small, personal or work-related—there’s support that understands you. Reach out when you need.

Spring Edition Newsletter 2026

💬💚

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COMMUNITY CORNER

Werra (Spring) Edition

VICTORIAN PUBLIC HEALTHCARE AWARDS WINNERS AND FINALISTS Lotjpa Yapaneyepuk: talk together about cancer trials Border Medical Oncology Research Unit GV Health Rumbalara Aboriginal Co-Operative Ltd. Cancer clinical trial access is not equitable, despite cancer being the leading cause of death among Aboriginalal and Torres Strait Islander people. Clinical trial access is key to helping people live longer, healthier lives, and requires community-based solutions. Border Medical Oncology Research Unit in collaboration with Rumbalara Aboriginal CoOperative Ltd and Goulburn Valley Health supported a community-led co-design process to develop strengths-based responses to improve clinical trial access and address systemic barriers. They used Aboriginalal and Torres Strait Islander research methods grounded in Aboriginalal leadership, cultural authority and governance, and genuine power-sharing. Lotjpa Yapaneyepuk created culturally safe, nationally relevant resources that strengthen equity and cancer trials access for Aboriginalal and Torres Strait Islander people.

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HELP SHAPE

OUR REGION’S WATER FUTURE Goulburn Valley Water is seeking customers to take part in a series of online focus groups this November and December to help shape future services across our region.

WHAT WILL WE DISCUSS? You'll join other customers to explore what matters most to our community and how these values and priorities should shape our approach to planning for the future. Your feedback will inform the next stages of community engagement and help guide the development of our next five-year plan.

WHAT’S INVOLVED?

We're seeking customers from different locations and backgrounds to ensure a broad range of perspectives are represented.

TIME COMMITMENT

Approximately eight hours in total, across several online sessions in November and December 2026.

PARTICIPANT PAYMENT

Customers selected to participate will receive $200 in recognition of their time and contribution.

EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST CLOSE

MONDAY 26 OCTOBER 2026

INTERESTED IN HAVING YOUR SAY? COMPLETE THE EXPRESSION OF INTEREST FORM HERE:

GOULBURN VALLEY WATER

https://watermatters.gwwater.vic.gov.au/price-submission-2028/ join-our-engagement-price-submission-2028

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT THE PROJECT: https://watermatters.gwwater.vic.gov.au/price-submission-2028

Your water. Our future.

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R U O Y GET

Have you had your 715 Health Check this year? You could WIN a double pass to the Australian Open First Nations Day in Melbourne!

H T L A E H 5 1 7 ! N I W & K C CHE

Book in for your 715 Health Check with Rumbalara and go in the draw to win an incredible experience, including:

Flights and accommodation A hit on court with Tennis Australia Ambassadors

Dinner with Deadly Choices Ambassadors Access to Evonne Goolagong Day activities Match tickets and more deadly prizes!

COMPETITION CLOSES FRIDAY, 4 DECEMBER 2026. Who can enter? Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people Active clients of their designated Aboriginalal Community Controlled Health Service Must have received a 715 Health Check between 1 January and 4 December 2026 Must be willing and able to travel to Melbourne from 18-20 January 2027 Must be able to provide photo ID

Ready to get deadly? Contact Rumbalara Medical to book your 715 Health Check today on 58 200 035! Rumbalara Aboriginalal Co-Operative, 20 Rumbalara Rd, Mooroozna Don't miss your chance to be part of this deadly experience Page 39

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Celebrating Women at Work

CONNECTING SUCCESSFUL, LIKE-MINDED WOMEN IN BUSINESS

women

I N BUSI NESS

Recognising our collective strength

SUPPORTING COMMUNITY... Rumbalara's Justice and Community Services learn a picture, with women across the organisation working collaboratively across Family Service, Health and Wellbeing, Elders Support, NDIS, Housing, Justice and Corporate Services. Photo: Supplied

AT Rumbalara, we know that no single person, team or service works in isolation. The needs of our Community are diverse and often interconnected, making collaboration across our organisation essential.

Justice & Community Services, bringing different skills, experiences and perspectives to their roles. Women are an important part of this work, contributing at every level of the organisation and across a broad range of roles.

We share knowledge, support one another and work together to ensure individual and families can access the care, advocacy and services they need.

When we working directly alongside Community, supporting families, caring for our Elders, delivering health services, or ensuring the systems behind our services operate effectively, each role contributes to our broader purpose.

Across Rumbalara Aboriginal and Co-operative, our female staff play an integral role in supporting, strengthening and advocating for our Community every day. They work across every part of our organisation, including Corporate Services, Elders Support, NDIS, Family, Care & Early Years, Health & Wellbeing, Housing and

Strong teams are built when people feel valued, have opportunities to develop and are encouraged to contribute their knowledge and ideas. Rumbalara is committed to creating opportunities for career progression, professional

development and learning, while recognizing the experience and cultural knowledge our people bring to their roles. When we invest in our people, we strengthen our teams. When our teams are strong, connected and collaborative, we are better equipped to respond to the needs of our community. Our strength is found in the diversity of our workforce, in the way our people support one another and in the shared commitment that connects our teams. Ultimately, this work is about something bigger than any one of us. It is about working together, caring for Community and continuing to build a strong organisation that creates better outcomes for the people and families we are here to serve.

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Spring Edition Newsletter 2026

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KEY EVENTS AND DATES

Werra (Spring) Edition

October 2026 SUN

MON

TUES

WED

THURS

FRI

SAT

Special Dates School is back - 5th October 2026

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November 2026 SUN

MON

TUES

WED

THURS

FRI

SAT

Special Dates Public Holiday Melbourne cup Tuesday 3rd November

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Cultural Corner Language Word of the Month

Werra

Meaning: Spring Reference: Page 165, Yorta Yorta Language Heritage

Find Your Next Read Explore powerful stories from First Nations authors across Australia. From Dreaming stories and memoirs to fiction and culture, there’s something for everyone, Learn about Country, identity, history, and connection through

storytelling Whether you’ve got 10 minutes or want to dive deeper, you’ll find something meaningful.

Suitable for all ages — from quick reads to powerful, thought-provoking books.

https://www.yourlibrary.vic.gov.au/

Watch of the Month Life of an Island Man

The story of Mabo, who fought the entire nation and its rigid legal system to defend his rights as an Indigenous Australian.

Life of an Island Man

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Easy Recipes SMASH BURGER SALAD Ingredients 5mL Woolworths extra virgin olive oil cooking spray 450g Woolworths smash beef burgers 2 tbs Woolworths secret burger sauce 60g tasty cheese 200g Woolworths shredded iceberg lettuce 250g cherry tomatoes, quartered 1/4 cup Bryne Co burger pickles, drained

Step-by-Step Instructions Step 1 Spray a large frying pan with oil. Cook burgers following packet instructions. Using the tip of a metal spatula, coarsely chop burgers into 2cm pieces. Step 2 Combine sauce with 1 tbs water in a small bowl. Using a vegetable peeler, shave cheese. Step 3 Place burger pieces, lettuce, tomato, pickles and half of the cheese in a large bowl. Season. Add half of the sauce mixture. Toss gently to combine. Step 4 Divide among serving bowls. Top with remaining cheese and sauce mixture. Serve.

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Easy Recipes MANGO-MISU Ingredients 1 1/2 cups mango nectar 1/2 cup dark rum 600mL Woolworths thickened cream 250g Woolworths mascarpone 3/4 cup caster sugar 280g sponge fingers 3 Calypso® mangoes, flesh thinly sliced

Step-by-Step Instructions Step 1 Combine 1 1/3 cups mango nectar and 2 tbs rum in a small bowl. Step 2 Using electric beaters, beat cream, mascarpone, 1/2 cup sugar and 1/4 cup remaining rum in a large bowl until well combined and firm peaks form. Step 3 Working with half of the sponge fingers, dip one at a time into the nectar mixture and turn to coat. Place over the base of a 2.8L serving dish. Arrange one-third of the mango on top. Top with half of the cream mixture. Spread evenly. Repeat layers with the remaining sponge fingers, half of the remaining mango and the remaining cream mixture. Cover and place in the fridge overnight to set and develop flavours. Step 4 Combine remaining nectar and rum. Place remaining sugar in a small saucepan. Add 2 tbs water. Stir over medium heat until sugar dissolves. Increase heat to high and cook for 3 minutes or until golden. Remove from heat and carefully add nectar mixture. Stir over medium heat for 1 minute or until well combined. Transfer to a small bowl. Set aside to cool (will thicken on standing). To serve, top dessert with remaining mango and drizzle with syrup.

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Our Locations Office Locations Victoria

Medical Services 20 Rumbalara Rd, Mooroopna (03) 5820 0035

SWAN HILL

MOOROOPNA

SHEPPARTON

Melbourne

SEYMOUR

Corporate Head Office 39 Archer St, Mooroopna (03) 5820 0000 Dental Services 20 Rumbalara Rd, Mooroopna (03) 5820 0080 Elder's Facility 95 Ford Rd, Shepparton (03) 5820 6200 Engagement & Family Services 141-179 Echuca Rd, Mooroopna (03) 5831 2010 Housing & Homelessness 141-179 Echuca Rd, Mooroopna (03) 5822 5670 Justice & Community Services 368-370 Wyndham St, Shepparton (03) 5820 0010 Spring Edition Newsletter 2026

Swan Hill- Positive Ageing & Disability Services 62 Campbell St, Swan Hill (03) 5032 1580 NDIS - Positive Ageing & Disability Services CNR Numurkah Rd & Graham St, Shepparton (03) 5822 2866 Public Intoxication Response 73 Numarkah Rd, Shepparton (04) 7709 3055 Seymour Corporate 65 Anzac Ave, Seymour (03) 5800 0000 Starritt Rd Farm 455 Starritt Rd, Mooroopna North West Winyaboga Nangha Womens & Childrens Accommodation (undisclosed location) 1800 184 285 Woongi unit (AOD & Mental Health) 170 Knight St, Shepparton Page 52 (03) 5831 2010 Page 52

Connect with Us Give us a call

Corporate Services (03) 5820 0000 Visit us

Corporate Services

39 Archer Street, Mooroopna VIC 3630 Visit our website

www.rumbalara.org.au

Rumbalara Aboriginal Cooperative

Find us on Linkedin

Rumbalara Aboriginal Cooperative

Email us:

vicki.scott@raclimited.com.au

natalie.visentin@raclimited.com.au

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