Phone 5862 1034 – Fax 5862 2668 – Email - Editorial: [email protected] - Advertising: [email protected] – Registered by Australia Post – Publication No. VA 1548 established 1895 LEADER NumurkahWEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 7, 2020 $1.30

INSIDE Smashing start ... Numurkah Foodworks’ new owners received a rude surprise when the front doors of the premises were rammed on their fi rst day of business.

Council candidates’ views See story pages 8 & 9

A cuppa with Nicole See story page 14 FOODWORKS RAMMED THE new owners of Numurkah Foodworks super- that useful ngerprints will be found. market received a nasty surprise on Monday, their rst  e male o ender is described as having a solid build, o cial day of business, when a vehicle was driven into wearing a high-visibility top and a dark-coloured beanie the store’s front doors in the early hours. and face mask.  e incident occurred at around 3.15am when a green  e vehicle used in the robbery was found dumped on False Toyota Hilux ute, which had earlier been stolen from an Naring Hall Road at 9.30am and returned to its owner. address at Hurley Court, Numurkah, was driven into New owner of Foodworks, Don Kerry, told the Leader the supermarket’s front sliding doors, which were then that, as it was his family’s rst o cial day as owners, and positive forced apart to gain access. A lone o ender entered the supermarket through the the incident occurred before the premises was open, broken doors and stole approximately $2,000 worth of they were still working out whose responsibility the in- cigare es. cident fell under. in Shepp Foodworks manager Dave Jenkins became aware of “It’s disappointing, and a pre y rude welcome to the A COVID-19 case diagnosed at GV the break-in when he arrived for work at around 6.20am business, but that’s how society is these days I suppose,” Health on Monday has now been listed as and immediately noti ed police. he said. a false positive result. Mr Jenkins said a review of the premises’ CCTV foot- “We’ve just got to get on with it, and things can only Whilst the positive result was announced age revealed the incident was over and done with in a get be er.” on Monday, GV Health CEO Ma Sharp ma er of minutes. Plans had already been made for the supermarket to said that the case was under review, but “One bloke came in and went straight to the cigare e remain closed for the day for cleaning, while the Ta s GV Health was taking a cautious approach counter and cut a lock o one of the cupboards and New arts counter remained open.  ough the Ta s counter was and identi ed close contacts of the person emptied it, and then emptied another one, and then he required to remain closed throughout the morning had been tested and were monitored while was gone,” he said. self-isolating, and further rapid contact whilst repairs were made to the front doors, it was able hub “He was being COVID-safe and wearing a mask, so it tracing was being undertaken. was hard to identify him.” to reopen in the a ernoon. Later on Monday, the Department of  e Leader understands that the o ender was also Mr Kerry said that his family is planning a major ren- Health and Human Services announced See story page 5 wearing gloves so, despite police crime scene investiga- ovation of the supermarket, though a date is still to be that the person had been re-tested and re- tors visiting the store yesterday morning, it is unlikely con rmed. turned a negative result. www.numurkahleader.net.au 2 — NumurkahLEADER, Wednesday, October 7, 2020 PETER COX & SONS FUNERALDIRECTORS What do you think about when Professional service tailored to your needs Locally owned & operated 24 hours - 7 days a week voting in council elections? Funeral calls and information WITH Local government elections now under way by postal vote, it’s time to decide who you want Cnr5862 Meiklejohn &3047 Quinn Streets to represent you on a local level for the next four years. ACCREDITED MEMBER OF THE AUSTRALIAN FUNERAL DIRECTORS ASSOCIATION With everybody having their own ideas about what ma ers, and their own concerns based on their Meals on Wheels Roster own interests, the Leader took to Melville Street to ask locals what issues they consider when choos- Rnd 1 Rnd 2 Rnd 3 M & J. Luci M. Caccianiga Lions Club of ing candidates in council elections. 12/10 Numurkah S. Morley Numurkah Sec V. Bunny 13/10 College G. Varley Cody James Adrian Ford R. Kennett C. North C. & R. I’d be looking for whoever Business, tourism and infra- 14/10 C. Boldt Hardham I think will be best at provid- structure. We need councillors M. Caccianiga Church of C. & R. ing for children and young who are proactive about those 15/10 Christ Hardham people.  ey’re our future things. VOLUNTEER C. Boldt J. Hansen and I think it’s important 16/10 REQUIRED K. Hepworth that decisions are made ac- Coordinator – MHA Care Phone 5742 1111 cording to what is best for ADVERTISEMENT them. Vote 1 Maggie Korteman Ken German We need to make sure the I vote for people I know will towns look a ractive. I think we speak up about issues. Even need a bit more colour, because Ed if that causes dissent, you then places feel positive for resi- need to have an opinion and dents and tourists. voice it because that creates discussion and might make Cox others think a bit more about things. Too many people go • Experienced Councillor to meetings and sit there and • Financial Accountability contribute nothing. • Projects across shire in small and large community • Tourism Development Merrilyn Je s • Rural Roads maintenance I want them to do something about the gu ers because they • Cobram Scott Reserve, are too dangerous for mobility Yarroweyah Rec Res, Cobram scooter users. Some of them are Tourism Information Centre Elaine German too high, so they need to think upgrade, Cobram East Levee, I think it’s really important about replacing them, and oth- Cobram Cinema project that we have people from ers are just badly maintained, • Footpaths across shire our local area on council to so you could easily get tipped represent us. It’s a big shire o .  ey also need more play- LIST OF PREFERENCES and if we don’t have local grounds, because they are all in representation on council we the same area, which can make 17 Mansfield P could miss out. We need a lo- access hard for some families. 14 Martin M cal to represent our interests. 13 Heather J 3 Elliott P 6 Beitzel J 5 Mustica L 4 Limbrick W 16 Olson S 2 Brooks J 15 Bourke K 9 Goldman A 10 Campbell G 12 Buck W 1 Cox E 11 McPhee D 7 Lawless P Business heating up for fi ries 8 Douglas F THE recent warmer weather has given local Yarroweyah, along with Strathmerton, was of Churr and Cooray Streets, where the tempera- AUTHORISED BY ED COX, re brigades a taste of things to come, with seven called to support Cobram again at 4.45am on Sat- 38 PURGATORY ROAD, COBRAM, 3644 ture in a shed rose too high, se ing o the detec- turn outs in the past week. urday, when a house re was reported at Mitchell tor. Once again Strathmerton and Yarroweyah At 2.25pm last Wednesday, Numurkah and Street, Cobram, between Sturt and Wills Streets. were not required. Numurkah Leader is Wunghnu brigades were called to a rubbish  e re was a rubbish bin re; Strathmerton and  at same a ernoon at 3.40pm, Tallygaroop- bound by the Standards fire immediately behind the roadhouse on Yarroweyah were stopped enroute. na and Wunghnu brigades were turned out to a of Practice of the Walshs Bridge Road, Numurkah. It was a small  en at 12.40pm on Saturday, Strathmerton reported grass and scrub re in a paddock at the fire, about a metre square; there was no one in and Yarroweyah were again called to support Australian Press corner of Barmah/Shepparton Road and Waaia Council. If you believe attendance, so the fire brigade put the fire out. Cobram, this time to an alarm at Pullar’s cool  at morning, at 6.45am Yarroweyah brigade stores, Murray Valley Highway, Cobram. Road. Wunghnu was stopped enroute. the Standards may have been breached, At 7.25am on Sunday, Waaia brigade was you may approach the newspaper was turned out to support Cobram for the rst Water pressure had dropped in the re service itself or contact the Council by email of what would be the rst of four times in ve main, se ing o the alarm. Strathmerton and turned out to support Nathalia at a grass and ([email protected]) or by phone days, when it responded to a reported grass re Yarroweyah were stopped enroute, but they were tree re at the corner of Cemetery Road and Ga- ([02] 9261 1930). For further information in a paddock at the corner of Campbell and no sooner back in their re stations at 1pm and ronne Street, Nathalia.  e re started in grass see www.presscouncil.org.au. Lonergan Roads, Cobram. Yarroweyah was not they were called to Cobram again, this time to near the cemetery and burnt into trees; the trees required. the Goulburn Valley Water depot at the corner were not badly burnt.

NumurkahLEADER

88 Melville Street, Numurkah VIC 3636 Beverley Dominique James Heather Joanne Sheryl Phone: 03 5862 1034 Hutchins Cosgriff Su on Kelly Crisara Ellio www.numurkahleader.net.au Editor Journalist Graphic Sales Admin Sports Designer Photographer Published by Jinki Sixteen Pty. Ltd. and printed by Newsprinters Pty Ltd printads@ editorial@ design@ sales@ printads@ Registered by Australia Post - Print Post publication no. 100002644 leader.net.au leader.net.au leader.net.au leader.net.au leader.net.au Numurkahleader, Wednesday, October 7, 2020 — 3 Advertisement

VOTE 1 JOHN BEITZEL After serving on council for the past 4 years I have decided to nominate again. I feel it is imperative that council has business minded representatives, who will make educated business decisions that will attract new industry and development to our shire, which in turn, will create more jobs and opportunities within our community. We need Moira shire to be authentic, efficient and accountable, whilst having an open-door policy to allow businesses in our community the opportunity to grow, develop and strengthen as we endeavour to push through this current pandemic that we are experiencing. We are living in one of the best parts of the country just 2.5 hours from the city with the Murray river on our doorstep! Let’s make sure our council leaders will always do their best to ensure that Moira Shire is a great place to live with a thriving economy. Authorised by John Beitzel, 2 Wilkinson Crt, Numurkah Helping hand ... (Back) NCN Health volunteer coordinator Jacquie Hughes is thrilled to welcome back volunteers including Bev Brooking and Faye Booth, even if they can’t yet resume their usual roles. ADVERTISEMENT Hospital welcomes back volunteers VOLUNTEERS returned to NCN Health’s until now. They’ve been doing what they can to Faye, who usually volunteers as a driver and a 1 Numurkah campus yesterday for the first time in support the residents without visiting in person, helper in Karinya, agreed wholeheartedly. V O T E over five months, and although their duties had but they’ve been really keen to get back on site,” “I do miss the contact with the residents, but changed significantly, they couldn’t have been she said. we can’t be there right now and if this is what we happier. They finally got to come back yesterday, but can do to help out, then we’ll do it,” she said. WAYNE Volunteers, who usually spend time with pa- were still unable to visit residents, instead mak- tients in the hospital’s aged care facilities, haven’t ing themselves useful in the garden. Ms Hughes said that they were working on re- been on-site since mid March. Recent sunny and warm weather had ensured turning the volunteers gradually, and were hold- LIMBRICK In the almost six months since, some have still there was plenty of weeding to be done, and ing discussions about when to take the next step. FOR MOIRA SHIRE COUNCIL been involved with supporting residents, call- eight volunteers rolled up their sleeves and got “If the volunteers are comfortable with it, then ing them for a chat, or reading or playing music stuck in, transforming garden beds around the we would like to introduce one-on-one visits for over Zoom, but due to strict DHHS measures to hospital. residents that don’t receive visitors, because that I love where I live and want combat the spread of the virus, they have been Bev Brooking and Faye Booth said that, al- social support the volunteers provide is so im- unable to attend the hospital in person. though it wasn’t their usual type of involvement, to be part of planning for portant for their wellbeing,” she said. NCN Health volunteer coordinator Jacquie they were more than happy to do the work. the future, to ensure that Hughes said the volunteers had been chomping “I usually do a trivia and quiz with the residents “We are so lucky to have volunteers who are so at the bit to get back. each Friday, and I’m looking forward to getting committed to the hospital, and are prepared to we improve the liveability “Every week they’ve been asking when they back to that, but in the meantime, I’m happy do- help however they can. I know the residents are of Moira Shire. are allowed back, but it’s been quite up in the air ing whatever they need me to do,’ she said. looking forward to seeing them again. We need experienced people with vision and a broad range of talents POLICE to take us forward. If BEAT elected, I will ask the tough questions and stimulate debate on issues which I believe CarNUMURKAH damaged police are seeking the public’s assistance after a car parked on Melville Street aff ect us all, such as sustained extensive damage yesterday morning. Water Security, Financial At around 5am, an offender, or offenders, are believed to have jumped onto the bonnet of the Management, Tourism, silver Ford Territory, which was parked outside Economic Development, El Toro Motel, causing extensive damage to the bonnet before smashing the windscreen. infrastructure and Anybody with any information about the in- services delivery. cident is asked to contact Numurkah police or Crimestoppers. www.waynelimbrick.com for more info Damage ... The Ford Territory sustained Authorised by Wayne Limbrick, significant damage to its bonnet and 313 Gardiners Road, Waaia windscreen in the attack. 4 — NumurkahLEADER, Wednesday, October 7, 2020 Sheed calls for budgets to make joint Caretaker Period investments in region AS governments put the nal touches on Sheed said. their 2020/21 budgets, Independent Member Since Goulburn Valley residents took their 2020 for Shepparton District Suzanna Sheed says ‘All Aboard’ campaign, calling for be er rail it’s time for the political parties to put aside services for the region, to the steps of the Vic- their di erences and work together to ensure torian Parliament in 2015, $356 million has the best and most appropriate projects are been commi ed by the Victorian State Gov- The Caretaker Period for Moira Shire Council will funded. ernment to the Shepparton rail line, with stage commence at 6pm Tuesday 22 September and “We need to build upon the bipartisan ap- one providing 10 additional train services and proach governments showed earlier in the 29 bus services weekly. end 6pm Saturday 24 October. year in dealing with the management of the Just last month, the contracts were signed COVID-19 health crisis. When the federal for stage two which will deliver the infrastruc- and state governments came together in a Na- ture for VLocity trains to travel to and from Councils must comply with website and social media tional Cabinet we were able to respond quick- Shepparton for the rst time, improving relia- ly to the needs of our communities across Aus- bility and making journeys more comfortable special arrangements in the updates, must not contain tralia,” Ms Sheed said. for passengers. lead up to elections, known as matters that will affect voting at “It is important that governments continue Ms Sheed said that the community led cam- with a cooperative approach when it comes paign from the Shepparton District has been the Caretaker Period. the election. to funding major projects which will provide the important force that has made a strong jobs and assist our economy in what will no case to both the state and federal governments A Caretaker Period ensures Communications will be doubt be a long-term recovery.” for be er rail and it could not be ignored. council actions don’t interfere restricted to essential advice for Ms Sheed said that, in her budget discus- “It has been our community’s strong advoca- with the election process, the community and will not be sions with the Victorian treasurer, she high- cy which saw the Victorian State Government lighted the long-term major projects that need fund stages one and two of this project and and the election process is used in any way that might favour to continue to be funded and brought through now we have stage three,” Ms Sheed said. conducted in an ethical, fair and or highlight a candidate. to completion in the Shepparton District. Ms Sheed said that the next major project equitable way. “While smaller capital works projects are that needed a funding commitment was the For more information on the on the funding radar, as they too will provide Shepparton bypass. It also safeguards the authority of Caretaker Period visit jobs at a local level, this is a time to look at the “I have long advocated for the building of the big picture and big projects that will provide Shepparton bypass, and I’ve been told that the the incoming council. www.localgovernment.vic.gov.au long term investment and employment in the business case will be completed by the end of region,” she said. this year,” she said. During the Caretaker Period, To view Moira Shire Council’s Ms Sheed welcomed the pre-budget an- “ is will create a perfect opportunity for material produced by councils, Caretaker Policy go to our nouncement that stage three of the Sheppar- both the state and federal governments to pro- ton rail line upgrade will receive $320m in gress a major nation building project, joining including print advertising, website. yesterday’s 2020/21 Federal Budget. our national highways through Victoria and “ is is fantastic and welcome news for our up to the New South Wales border, and create community. Stage three will ensure we can many jobs in our region for years to come. have nine velocity trains run each week day “ ere are many other important projects to Phone NRS Email between Shepparton and Melbourne. It will be funded, and regional Victoria should be in- 5871 9222 133 677 [email protected] be transformational in many ways, and set the cluded in the major recovery investments pro- scene for even more services in the future,” Ms posed by both state and federal governments.” Community Update

Transfer Stations reopen Funding is available for a maximum of half of the Register your new pet online costs of the Fairley Leadership Program. The Yabba, Tungamah and Strathmerton Transfer Stations You can now register a new pet online via our website as well have reopened now COVID-19 restrictions are easing. To apply for sponsorship funding visit www.moira.smartygrants.com.au/ as renewing your pet registration. Eftpos and cash are accepted however eftpos is the fairleyleadershipprogramsponsorship2021 Every dog and cat three months of age and over must be preferred option where possible. To apply for the Fairley Leadership Program visit registered and existing registrations must be renewed by Opening times – www.goulburnmurraycommunityleadership.com.au 10 April each year. • Yabba Transfer Station – Sunday 9am until 12pm For more information phone our friendly Customer Your registration fee gives you more than just a lost and found • Tungamah Transfer Station – Sunday 1pm until 4pm Service Team on 5871 9222. service for your pet, it also goes to providing shelter facilities, • Strathmerton Transfer Station – Tuesday 1pm dog waste composting bins and some training and awareness until 4pm Victorian Government initiatives. For more information go to our website Mask Distribution Program The State Government also uses pet registration fees as a www.moira.vic.gov.au Through the Victorian Government Mask source of funding for research into dog and cat welfare. Distribution Program, For more information go to our website Council is providing www.moira.vic.gov.au/Residents/Pets-and-animals masks to vulnerable community members who may become sicker with coronavirus or who may be less likely to have access to a face covering. Providing these people Fairley Leadership Program with reusable face masks is important in minimising the risk of infection – sponsorship available across the community, and supporting vulnerable Victorians and our Applications are open for interested community members essential health workers. who wish to apply for sponsorship funding to the Eligible community members can apply for masks via our website, by Goulburn Murray Fairley Leadership Program. phoning our friendly Customer Service Team or in person at the Cobram Applications for this sponsorship funding is now open Customer Service Centre. and will close at 4pm Friday 30 October. For more information please visit www.moira.vic.gov.au/masks

Phone Email Customer Service Call us on 5871 9222 [email protected] Centres 44 Station Street, Cobram NRS Mail 100 Belmore Street, Yarrawonga To report service issues and emergencies 133 677 PO Box 578, Cobram VIC 3643 after hours call (03) 5871 9222. NumurkahLEADER, Wednesday, October 7, 2020 — 5 Arts getting new home in Numurkah IT’S no secret that the COVID crisis has hit Australia’s arts industry hard, but, in Moira Shire at least, the future of the Bringing the creativity arts is looking brighter than ever. ... Barb Sinclair and Jac- Moira Shire Council used its last queline Cuijpers are excit- ordinary meeting before going into ed to be bringing out the caretaker mode prior to the election art in Numurkah district. to announce funding for three new creative arts hubs. Creative hubs have been endorsed for Numurkah, Nathalia and Yar- rawonga, and support was also given for council to identify possible oppor- tunities for the establishment of a Co- bram Creative Hub. As a brand new enterprise, Crea- tive Arts Numurkah & District Hub - CAN Hub - is still in its infancy, but its founding members Barb Sinclair and Jacqueline Cuijpers are looking to hit the ground running. “It’s extremely exciting, and we’re really looking forward to promoting all types of art, and giving it a more prominent role in the Numurkah dis- trict community,” Barb said. “We’re really keen to work with arts organisations that already have a pres- ence in the community, and enhance the things they are doing, as well as pu ing some new ideas into action to increase the presence of art in com- CAN Hub’s Jacqueline Cuijpers said “It’s very exciting to be able to have Ms Rice said the creative hubs will these hubs makes us very excited for munity life on a day-to-day basis.” they wanted the new organisation to a means of bringing creative people comprise a broad range of members the future of arts and culture in Moira  e new hubs were identi ed in be a vehicle for all creatives. together, no ma er how they go about and develop an action plan which es- Shire.” council’s  rst ever Arts and Culture “We want creative thinkers from all expressing their creativity, and to pro- tablishes a program of activities and Council has approved the applica- Strategy 2020-26, heralding in a new mediums and from all skill levels to vide a space for them to learn from events through which the arts and cul- tions of the following groups to form era for the development and promo- get involved,” she said. each other for the bene t of the wider ture strategy can be delivered. a hub in their respective areas - CAN tion of the region’s vibrant arts sector. “We want this to be a vehicle for community.” “ ey will also support inclusive (Creative Arts Numurkah & District) General Manager Community Sally the whole district and an outlet for Ms Sinclair said it was hoped that and connected communities, value Hub, Numurkah; the G.R.A.I.N Rice said the new model will be able to the community to form connections CAN Hub could act as an umbrella the culture of our First Nations Peo- Growing Rural Art in Nathalia Inc, provide multi-year funding that allows through sharing their creativity.” organisation to help existing artists ples, support youth-based programs, Nathalia, and ATA Creative Hub, Yar- the hubs to plan over a longer horizon. Ms Cuijpers said they hoped CAN and arts groups to share their work. plan or provide exhibition and perfor- rawonga. “Each hub will receive three annual Hub could facilitate crossovers where “We are looking forward to helping mance spaces, identify professional CAN Hub will be holding its  rst payments of $30,000 for activities and artists from di erent disciplines and those groups promote what they’re development opportunities for artists meeting via Zoom at 7.30pm next programs, as well as an extra $5,000 age groups were able to share their ex- doing, and to learning from them and performers, and plan for broader  ursday, October 15. For more in- in the  rst year to support each hub’s periences and skills, and bring those about how we can give art a greater regional access to the arts,” she said. formation contact canhub3636@ establishment,” Ms Rice said. things into the broader community. presence across the district. “ e development and support of gmail.com or visit its Facebook page. Advertisement Advertisement Vote 1 Bourke. Kevin J. VOTE 1 I humbly seek your vote to continue to work on your behalf.

MANSFIELD, Peter Martin, Marie MARTIN, Marie 10 MANSFIELD, Peter 9 HEATHER, Judy 2 MARTIN, Marie 1 ELLIOTT, Peter 4 HEATHER, Judy 4 BEITZEL, John 7 ELLIOTT, Peter 14 MUSTICA, Libro 15 BEITZEL, John 11 14 LIMBRICK, Wayne MUSTICA, Libro 15 OLSON, Scott 13 LIMBRICK, Wayne 10 BROOKS, Julie 3 OLSON, Scott 3 BOURKE, Kevin J. 9 BROOKS, Julie 8 GOLDMAN, Andrew 1 BOURKE, Kevin J. 2 CAMPBELL, Geoff 12 GOLDMAN, Andrew 12 BUCK, Wendy 5 CAMPBELL, Geoff 5 COX, Ed 16 BUCK, Wendy 16 COX, Ed 17 MCPHEE, Don 17 MCPHEE, Don 7 LAWLESS, Peter 8 LAWLESS, Peter 13 DOUGLAS, Fred 11 DOUGLAS, Fred 6 6 TRANSPARENCY Open and clear intentions with no ambiguity or other intent ACCOUNTABILITY Approachable Responsible and answerable to decision making SERVICE DELIVERY TO ALL OF MOIRA SHIRE Inclusive of the whole Shire, not just bits. Available For more info go to Facebook Bourke Kevin J. For Moira Shire Accountable

Authorised by Kevin J. Bourke, 3.Draper St, Nathalia,3638 Ph.0428 662 839 Authorised by Marie Martin, 1 Harbison Avenue, Numurkah. VIC 3636 03 5862 1370 0438 073 714 6 — NumurkahLEADER, Wednesday, October 7, 2020

TruckingON display in the Australian Trucking Hall of on since 1936 Fame in Alice Springs is an item from Numurkah which is believed to be unique in Australia - a re- ceipt listing two horses received as a down pay- ment on a new truck, to the value of 50 pounds. e horses, Princess and Major, belonged to Hugh Harbor, known to all as Barney, and had been used to pull his dray which he used to de- liver wood that he had cut to the bu er factory, and cart wheat to and from silos. Realising that trucking represented the future of haulage, Barney had his eye on a new Chevy and, realising that once he had it he wouldn’t need the horses any more, he struck a deal to use Princess and Major as a down payment on the cost. First truck in Numurkah ... Barney Harbor made a good living Receiving the vehicle from local stock and sta- carting all manner of products on his Chevy truck. tion agents Kilpatrick, McLellan and Co. in 1936 when he handed over the horses, Barney became the proud owner of the  rst truck in Numurkah. Barney’s son Allan said that he’s not sure how much his father paid for the truck in total, but a er that initial, unique, payment, he paid instal- ments in cash until it was fully paid o in 1938. “Dad’s brother was a woodcu er in Sheppar- ton and dad realised that there wasn’t enough work there for both of them, so he came up to Numurkah. He had a good business going up here, but then he realised he could do a lot be er if he bought a truck,” he said. “He drove that truck until it wore out, and then he bought another one, second hand, from Mar- tins, who were the General Motors dealer. Dad always said he didn’t have words for what good people the Martins were and how well they treat- ed him.” ough Barney’s was the  rst truck in Numur- kah, it was a close thing, with Eddie Holmes pur- chasing one in the same year. “Dad always said he wasn’t sure if he’d beaten Eddie to it or not, but I was talking to Eddie’s son Doug one day and he said my dad de nitely had his  rst.” “Dad carted cha , wood, wheat, wool lambs Hall of Fame ... Barney Harbor was canny enough to use his and horses in that truck. It was a good invest- two dray horses for a down payment on the fi rst truck in Nu- Family story … Allan Harbor followed his father Barney into truck driving, ment.” murkah. and also has a collection of saw blades in honour of his dad’s other trade. Advertisement I’M FIGHTING FOR A COUNCIL WHERE VOTE 1 ALL RESIDENTS HAVE REAL POWER Judy Heather OVER OUR SHIRES FUTURE • I will fight for adequate funding to the small towns of Moira. I will liaise and 2. Geoff Campbell meet regularly with interested parties from all towns and ensure your voice is 3. Peter Elliott heard. 4. Don McPhee • We need a solid plan to help MOIRA BUSINESSES to recover and thrive post Covid and into the future. Subsidised fees and registrations, grant funding 5. Scott Olson support with community consultation 6. Marie Martin • Sufficient funding and accountability of Sun Country on the Murray to ensure 7. Peter Mansfield Moira and the border towns are seen as a FOUR SEASON destination and that 8. Kevin Bourke we are seen as a bucket list destination • I will advocate for regular audits and maintenance/upgrades of all council 9. Fred Douglas footpaths and roads and push for action on VicRoads roads. 10. Peter Lawless MAKE YOUR VOTE COUNT 1st vote is crucial and preference from there. 11. Julie Brooks Every name needs a number to be valid. 12. Andrew Goldman • We need a strong team of councillors, made up of individuals from across the shire. 13. John Beitzel • Clear thinking, hard working, no personal agendas, no voting pacts, 14. Wayne Limbrick experienced and community minded councillors. The following are my 15. Libro Mustica preferences, aimed at a council that will question and debate the pro’s and con’s. 16. Wendy Buck • Keep the communities informed along the way. 17. Ed Cox • Allow questions to be asked by community members and give them an answer. • Listen to the youth about their ideas and their needs and engage them in decision making. • Experienced councillors with • Investigate the legalities of opening briefings to the public so they can experience how and why decisions are made proven track records. • (non interactive). • Past councillors with experience • Most of all, be accountable for the decisions they make. and enthusiasm. To change the so often, heard statements “What does the Moira Shire do for me” and “What do I get for my • New councillors with drive and rates”, I think we have to change the councillors. new directions. Councillors who will listen, learn and act. Councillors who will stand up for community issues but also explain if they had to go in a different direction.

To discuss any local issues contact Judy on 0431 486 903 e: [email protected] www.facebook.com/judyformoira Authorised by Judy Heather, 5768 Benalla-Yarrawonga Road, Yarrawonga 3730. NumurkahLEADER, Wednesday, October 7, 2020 — 7 20 Moira Shire Elections 20 WITH postal ballots for this month’s local government elections now arriving in letterboxes across Moira Shire, it’s time to decide how to cast your vote for who will represent ratepayers for the next three years. This week, the Leader posed fi ve questions to each of the 17 candidates vying for one of the nine seats on Moira Shire Council, asking them where they stood on issues of concern to the local area, and Moira Shire as a whole. Although not all of the candidates took advantage of the opportunity, here, along with a short bio of each candidate, are the answers of those who did. Questions 1. What actions will you take to ensure that the implementation of the Numurkah Flood Mitigation Plan remains on track?

2. Some people think that money received by the council in the form of rates should be spent proportionate to where they are contributed from i.e. an area with a 50% rates contribution, for example, would receive the benefi t of 50% of the rates money spent by council. What is your opinion on this?

3. Should council get involved in property development with a view to increasing both industrial and residential growth across the shire?

4. What is your position on council moving forward with the steps necessary to make sure Numurkah achieves RV Friendly status?

5. Do you believe council should take a greater role in advocating for fairness in the structure and delivery of the Murray Darling Basin Plan for the benefi t of farmers throughout Moira Shire? See responses next page

Advertisement ADVERTISEMENT VOTE 1 15 16 PETER • A Strong independent 17 voice for all communities and individuals’ concerns. ELLIOTT, Peter LAWLESS • Supporting and encouraging our many MANSFIELD, Peter 7 volunteers who are the life MARTIN, Marie 14 blood of our community. HEATHER, Judy 9 12 OLSON, Scott A. • Planning for the ELLIOTT, Peter 2 next generation, but BEITZEL, John 6 13 not forgetting the MUSTICA, Libro 11 needs of our senior LIMBRICK, Wayne 8 citizens, disabled and OLSON, Scott 17 14 disadvantaged of today. BROOKS, Julie 4 10 • Encouraging progressive BOURKE, Kevin J 13 ideas and development GOLDMAN, Andrew 3 so vital for employment, 11 CAMPBELL, Geoff 12 tourism and opportunities BUCK, Wendy 15 for our youth. COX, Ed 10 • I will work with all MCPHEE, Don 5 councillors and residents LAWLESS, PETER 1 for the benefit of our DOUGLAS, Fred 16 Please note: Above are my preferences for the Moira Shire Council election. community. You must number all boxes on the ballot paper 1-17 to ensure your vote is valid. Authorised by Peter Lawless, 1318 Katamatite- Yarrawonga Road, Burramine South, 3730 AuthorisedAuthorised by Libro by Libro Mustica, Mustica, 2424 CatonaCatona Cres, Cres, Cobram Cobram 3644 3633 8 — NumurkahLEADER, Wednesday, October 7, 2020 20 Moira Shire Elections 20 river banks are “slumping” due to their sodosol soils not being Answers: able to cope.  e Darling River is more adept to high  ows. Evap- oration rates also need to be taken into account. We are dealing with a most precious resource.

Wayne Limbrick Marie Martin I am 65 years old, born in Nathalia, married to Pam for 44 years I am Numurkah born and bred and worked for many years as a with two adult children, Dean and Jodie, both of whom are mar- primary teacher/music educator. I am married to Ron with whom ried, and I have four grandchildren all at school in Nathalia. Kevin Bourke I have two married sons and three grandchildren. I have been active in my community and the broader Moira Shire I am a fourth generation Nathalia resident who, along with my I have undertaken the Australian institute of Company Directors most of my adult life through school councils, hospital board, Bar- partner Leanne, has operated a number of successful small busi- course and am an alumni of Cranlana Centre for Ethical Leader- wo Homestead board, golf, football and tennis club commi ees nesses in the Nathalia area for many years. ship and Melbourne University, and have undertaken further and tourism boards. I have extensive experience and quali cations in the agricultural, studies in adolescent health and welfare. I am an accountant, and operated a successful accounting and automotive and transport industries, and have taken a keen inter- I am a member of Baulkamaugh CWA and immediate past group nancial planning business for more than 25 years. Pam and I have est in local communities and local government for many years, president and member of state council, and also a past president also been involved in irrigated agriculture for almost 40 years. which has led to two terms as councillor for the Moira community. of Numurkah Secondary College and Numurkah Community 1. Having lived through several major  oods and seen the bene- 1. February/March 2012 saw a devastating  ood impact on Nu- Learning Centre boards. ts of the  ood mitigation work done in Nathalia post 1974  ood, murkah, creating havoc, despair and hardship. A public meeting I am a volunteer of many years at Baala/Karinya and Pioneers I fully support the work done by the Numurkah group and, if lead to formation of Numurkah Flood Action Group which be- Lodge, as well as belonging to Lions Ladies. I have been joint mu- elected, will do everything I can to ensure that the plan is nalised came the Numurkah Flood Study and Plan Steering Commi ee. sical director of Numurkah Carols by Candlelight for close to 25 to the satisfaction of the community and implemented without Consultants were appointed and a er much input, in November years. further delay. 2017, released Numurkah Flood Study and Plan with three op- 1. A er the devastating  ood of 2012, thorough community 2. While I agree that the needs of all communities in the shire tions. Again, 135 submissions later and a huge public meeting saw consultation was carried out as to what  ood mitigation was need- are important, being able to carry out major projects as needed, preferred Option A overwhelmingly supported and endorsed by ed. With three options to choose from, overwhelming support with available funds, has its advantages. Limiting expenditure by Council resolution. was given to Option A.  is was further endorsed by Council res- the number of ratepayers, in my opinion, would have a severe im- Numurkah Flood Mitigation Steering Commi ee was formed to olution. pact on the small communities in particular. I believe it is much assist council with mitigation rollout. Currently assessing align- Currently we have had meters installed that will give earlier in- be er to study the needs and wants of all the communities and ment and build options to provide maximum protection and min- dications of level of  ooding, but no other mitigating factors in judge them on their merits, funding each in order of priority as imum adverse impact. place. funds are available. Works need to proceed in timely manner and protection Assessment of alignments and build options to provide maxi- 3. In larger towns commercial development is more likely, as in- achieved without delay. mum protection and minimum adverse impact are currently be- vestment by private enterprise can provide a return more quickly 2. Fairness and equity are always the intention with revenue dis- ing carried out. We need a time line of the actions that need to due to faster and more reliable turnover. However, in some cases tribution and budget deliberations. be carried out to achieve Option A without undue delay. Employ where this is not possible, certainly in the smaller towns, I believe If the thoughts suggested were strictly adhered to, it would mean more sta if needed. council has a role to play in sourcing and facilitating land, for both that our larger urban centres would a ract a disproportionate al- Regular updates to the community through the media and pub- residential and industrial purposes, if there is no alternative. Avail- location of funds, to the detriment of our smaller centres and rural lic meetings, when allowed, are needed. able land is critical to economic development and we should al- properties. 2. Council needs to collect rates to provide services to our shire ways try to be ahead of the game or risk missing out. For example, I spoke to a lady from a farming enterprise who community. While some areas have a greater rate base from which 4. My involvement in tourism in Moira Shire is extensive and I pays $27,000 in rates and charges annually, and lives on a dirt road to draw, and contribute a greater amount to council’s co ers, it is have been a strong advocate for provision of appropriate options with no garbage pickup or other services. How does this compare an underlying ethos with local, state and federal governments to for caravan and RV camping spots. As chairman of Western Moira to some others. How do we maintain our halls, pools, recreation have a fair and equitable society, which means that we share. Tourism and Moira Shire Tourism Advisory Commi ee, I raised reserves and other community assets or maintain our huge roads Many of our sporting facilities, public halls, libraries, swimming my concern about ensuring we had adequate options for free or network? pools, playgrounds, arts and cultural activities, for example, would low cost camping and locations for bigger vehicles. Unfortunately, 3. Short answer – Yes! Degree of involvement is the key. A prime never occur in some areas if rate monies were not spread across council ignored that advice when adopting the current RV strate- example; a neighbouring municipality encouraged and facilitated the shire. gy. If elected, I will strongly advocate for the provision of camping the purchase of land, with li le monetary assistance to a business Our shire is 4000 square kilometres and our road network is options for caravans and RVs in Numurkah and Nathalia, which seeking to set up.  e result was that within ve years business huge, and costs a great amount. Good, safe and serviceable roads will allow us to again become o cially RV Friendly.  ourished, providing work for 116 employees, which resulted in are vital for linking us up in our daily pursuits and supporting the 5. Clearly, the current arrangements are not working and the re- 52 new homes being built in this time, providing more jobs and many agricultural/horticultural industry and commerce that have sult is seeing detrimental e ect on the agricultural sector in Moira economic stimulus, other local business provided with economic vehicles coming in and out of the shire.  is is a shared resource. Shire. I rmly believe council should be a strong advocate for advantage, school student numbers increased, another two teach- State and federal grants for speci c projects aid the council’s ca- change, to reverse the current injustices and to secure the future ers were employed and the municipality gained considerable in- pacity to deliver. of irrigated agriculture in Moira Shire. If elected I will certainly get crease in rates revenue. 3. Yes. We need to a ract more industry to our shire, and housing involved in this discussion and advocate for change at whatever 4. I feel that we need to consult carefully with the Numurkah is a necessary adjunct to this. Council already has a joint venture level I can. community.  e bene ts of it being declared an RV Friendly stop with the Bendigo Bank in Nathalia in the form of land develop- over are considerable, as we have very a ractive facilities in place ment for housing.  is is to account for the shortage of housing, and the economic bene ts would be considerable. coupled with the expansion of jobs availability in Nathalia.  e I feel that care needs to be exercised as to the locations of camp- terms of this venture are bene cial to both parties.  e project is ing facilities and the maintenance of these areas. If we were to in- now up to stage two. clude the recreation reserve, will this adversely impact on current 4. I recently presented a petition to council from residents and and future users of this facility; including school groups and, post ratepayers who wished to see Numurkah reinstated as RV friend- COVID-19, our many sporting and recreation events. Do we con- ly. It has been agreed that council will trial this in Numurkah as sider the youth club reserve? part of its review. Community consultation has taken place as to Consideration needs to be given as to the cleaning and main- a preferred site. tenance of these facilities. Are we asking our current volunteer I understand that there are travellers who do not stay in caravan management commi ees to be park a endants, or do we provide parks and are bypassing the town, with all the many a ractions sta for supervision and maintenance? Are we unfairly competing it has to o er.  is, in turn, provides no stimulation to the local with existing local businesses who employ locals and pay rates and economy.  is trial period should give the necessary data for a de- charges? cision to be made by council. Evaluation of numbers and monies Wendy Buck I feel that proper consultation with the Numurkah community spent would need to be contributed, along with any costs to the I am a disability and aged care support worker in the shire, with is required. shire to see if this is the case. a business and tourism focus, having owned the Gazebo Motel 5. A resounding YES, and this will not only bene t our farmers,  rough this collection of data, we can also ascertain whether Strathmerton. but the whole community. Council’s responsibility is to advocate our caravan park is being disadvantaged, as they are business own- I am focused on community projects, women’s issues, disability for the community. ers, ratepayers and shire leasees. access, environment and waste resource recovery projects. I have In recent years we have seen huge amounts of irrigation water 5. Yes, council should take a greater part in advocacy. No more graduated from the Australian Institute of Company Directors leave our districts, only to go downstream, providing economic water to leave our area. Over approximately 70 years, irrigation with 10 years on Moira Shire Council. advantage, jobs and productivity to downstream communities. water has turned our area into an oasis, relatively speaking. My husband Richard and I play bowls at Strathmerton Bowls  e Barmah Choke is one of our natural assets, but with the Many agricultural/horticultural, food processors, other indus- Club, have both held executive positions and run junior bowls demands of irrigation water downstream, we have seen massive tries, along with our communities rely on it to survive. events. environmental vandalism occur in the Barmah National Park, and Domestic and export markets are catered for. It is our lifeblood. I am a community volunteer of over 40years with a community also in our Murray and Goulburn River systems, and even the idea  e transference of water using our infrastructure without paying heart, I believe in being at the decision making table not on the  outed to use our Broken Creek as a conveyor to downstream ir- needs to be addressed, as does the wastage through evaporation of menu. rigators. this precious resource. 1. I am very disappointed the  ood mitigation plan has taken so Keep the water, the productivity, the jobs and the economic  e fabric of the river is being destroyed by the continual high long in its process, I have been asking the question why at many stimulus to our side of the Barmah Choke.  ows throughout the year.  e Goulburn, Murray and Edwards stages through the process and I don’t want to see shortcuts or a NumurkahLEADER, Wednesday, October 7, 2020 — 9 20 Moira Shire Elections 20 stingy approach to how it is going to be funded. e project has all forms of mobility to meet the needs of its users. As a  rst-time 1. I am commi ed to ensuring that the implementation of the generational bene ts and should be done as soon as possible. I candidate, I hope to o er fresh perspectives in this conversation, Numurkah Flood Mitigation Plan remains on track. Having ex- was there  lling sand bags and directing tra c across the bridge based on my experience in large scale infrastructure projects, and perienced severe  ooding myself in 2012, and seeing so many so I saw it  rst hand and I am keen to progress this as a top priority. also because I’m pre y passionate about our road network. e residents and businesses su er, it is simply not acceptable in 2. is would sound fair until a particular town had a large pro- control and upkeep of our roads is important for primary produc- townships of today. I believe this project is number one priority ject, such as  ood mitigation, in the millions, which exceeded ers and for community safety, not just tourism. for Moira and we need to impress upon the state and federal gov- this, which would exclude it from being done, under this scenar- 5. I was born in an outback community and raised on 6,000 ernments the total anxiety of the community, and the hesitation io. When you look at the statistics, rates are evenly distributed acres and appreciate the unique pressures that are inherent in the of the people wanting to se le in Numurkah given the threat of throughout the shire even though at times it seems some towns get farming community. Water is their lifeblood. Council should be a  ooding. We also need to recognise the knowledge and experi- more than others. Numurkah projects, Rowe St drainage, Twed- strong advocate in supporting its farmers in areas of their needs. ence within the community. dle Street Park, Station Street upgrade, water station installation, Moira Shire is an interwoven array of diverse industries and busi- 2. is will be hard to implement given the number of major pro- showgrounds netball court, Paterson Street drainage renewal and ness sectors that need council support. e fabric of this com- jects around the shire that come up from time to time, including upgrade, drainage pit renewal program, Campbell Street sealing. munity is bound together by council strategy. I have the energy, roads, footpaths and community centres, but, in principle, every 3. Yes we should and we do already. We have with Cobram in industry knowledge and a vision for Moira’s future. I’m keen to community, large or small, deserves its share. e Numurkah industrial land, and in Nathalia in a residential capacity. Some- bring fresh perspectives, and hope, when constituents receive  ood study mitigation plan is a good example of a project which, times a town has a need for commercial industrial or residential their ballot papers, they consider my skillset. when implemented, will need a huge contribution from the rest of expansion and there isn’t the investor to pursue this avenue so in the shire, which I support. council’s role in growing the town they need to explore the pos- 3. Council involvement should be to ensure appropriate plan- sibilities and, even though it can take a while to sell all the lots, it ning zones are in place, and assist private development wherever has proven to be successful so far and this opens the door to doing possible. Where there is an absolute shortage of industrial and this in other towns. residential land, we may need to go further than this, such as, the 4. Numurkah is RV friendly and has held many RV events at the assistance in the residential estate in Nathalia. But this assistance showgrounds over the last 10 years, it has a great reputation for should not be a long term burden on ratepayers. being friendly and welcoming to visitors. I believe RV camping at 4. Post pandemic, I believe that we will see a boom in tourism, showgrounds and caravan parks can work together, as they both and we need to have everything in place to entice travellers to Nu- o er a di erent experience and there is a market for both. RV murkah, accepting that some travellers, i.e. RV, want a choice as to friendly brings income into our towns and with COVID this is where they visit and stay. e Numurkah RV study results will be more important than ever to support our local businesses. So yes, of great value to council for se ing a policy. I also believe that RV support Numurkah to achieve RV friendly status. travellers should contribute to the services that are provided by 5. Yes, council recently participated in the Murray-Darling Asso- the community. ciation 76th National Conference via teleconference. e Murray 5. Council has been taking an active role on this issue, by com- Darling Association is the peak body that represents our council ing together with surrounding councils to form a united alliance areas, on which we have two members, who are continually ad- vocating for our shire in these ma ers. $230 million funding has against the shortcomings of the plan. Being in agriculture myself, been announced to get on with implementing the basin plan with and relying on the industries built around water availability, I be- Andrew Goldman lieve we need to advocate as strongly as possible to address and a focus on communities and jobs. My concern is the Barmah I’ve lived in the Moira Shire for 47 years and have continued choke and how they intend to get water through or around it go- point out, the damage that the implementation of the plan so far, to grow as a community member and businessman ever since. I has done to communities ing forward and how this is going to impact the farmers concerned spent my life working in earthmoving where my business, which and water being traded out of our region. has continued to grow over the past 20 years, has been heavily in- volved in developments across the Moira Shire. I raised my fam- ily in this community and have always supported local sporting groups while looking for more opportunities to help educate the younger generation right here in the Moira Shire. 1. is plan has taken too long to be resolved and it is time to move forward. As we enter the threat of another  ood season, we need to re-engage the plan and raise awareness on  ood protec- tion and drainage issues in Numurkah. 2. We need to evaluate how the Moira Shire rates are being spent. If I become a councillor, I will seek to  nd a sustainable and fair plan to spend rates, while at the same time seeing our region de- velop. I have been recently hearing the frustration from communi- ty members on our rates and I believe it’s fair that the contribution of rates should be disbursed equally across our region. 3. YES. I am very passionate about the need for more low-cost industrial land and residential properties. In doing this it will help boost business and job opportunities across the shire, at the same Fred Douglas time o ering a ordable residential properties to help keep fami- I am a seasoned property professional, experienced with com- lies in town. munity consultation, feasibilities, management and development 4. An RV friendly status is a great way to bring more tourists and of commercial and retail assets. A member of the Australian Insti- development to the region. e community’s petition has now Sco Olson closed but I hope they got the numbers and ideas generated to I am a 30 year resident of Moira, with the last 24 years in Koono- tute of Company Directors, I’m commi ed to good governance omoo. I believe it is important to contribute to one’s community practices. I’m also a proud Bundalong local, and I’ve previously progress to the next stage. Tourism is one of the biggest drivers of regional development and it would be great to see more people in whatever capacity a person is able to. For myself, I have been served on the Yarrawonga Health Board and am a member of an active community member for 30+ years in service of sporting Yarrawonga Neighbourhood House Commi ee of Management, coming through the town all year round. 5. Absolutely. Our communities and our town businesses rely on clubs and volunteer commi ees of management, with half of these member of Mulwala Water Ski Club and have stood down from years at the executive level, mostly as treasurer. the Moira Council Audit Commi ee to run for council. I’m an water just as much as our farmers do. Our local economies rely on 1. Given the Numurkah Flood Mitigation Plan has already been elite-level veteran waterski athlete, who has represented Australia irrigation and, with a big farming community in the Moira Shire, agreed upon, then simply put, I would support whatever actions internationally. I’m an energetic person, optimistic about Moira’s I will  ght for equitable and sustainable water. e families of the future. Moira Shire and their future relies on water. the Numurkah community deems necessary to ensure its imple- 1. Council must be accountable to the community for all pro- mentation remains on track. jects that it undertakes – this accountability sweeps across ma- 2. is is a very good question, but which lacks one critical com- jor critical factors such as project duration and funding. Council ponent for proper debate on this topic, and that is a reference time must implement a rigorous process to monitor progress of pro- frame. On a year-to-year basis, I do not believe this would be a jects, measured against key performance indicators that deliver constructive nor workable way in which to allocate rates. How- outcomes that ensure delivery in accordance with objectives. Im- ever, over a longer time frame, an in-depth review of rates contri- portantly, we must ensure that the community is kept informed. bution versus rates money spent within each of the communities I’m a big advocate for public consultation. I look for opportunities across our shire is a great idea and one that I would whole-heart- in projects that unite us rather than divide us. We must bring the edly support. community along for the ride. 3. is can be a tricky question and open to varied interpreta- 2. Councils have a wide and vast responsibility across multiple tions. My response is that it depends on who bene ts from coun- disciplines/sectors to ensure fairness to all their constituents. In cil purchased land. If it is the community as a whole that will ben- the case of Moira Shire, which is spread over a vast and contrasting e t from this type of purchase or development of land, then ‘yes’ I topography, the proportionate system would have a devastating would support council’s involvement. However, if there is seen to impact outside of the main suburban clusters. I don’t want to over- be an out-sized bene t to any one individual or group from these state this, but it has the potential to destroy smaller towns. I love Peter Lawless council purchases and/or developments, then I would advocate this part of the world, and I’m optimistic about Moira’s future. I I am involved in a family agricultural business at Burramine. My for far greater scrutiny in any council decisions on this topic. think we can prosper within the existing rates structure. wife Carol and I have four adult children and six grandchildren. I 4. In truth, I was unaware and surprised to learn that Numurkah 3. I’ve spent 40 years in property management, master planning have been Deputy Mayor for the last three years. I have previously was not already an RV Friendly town. So yes, I support Numurk- and development, both internationally and within Australia. My been vice president of Victorian Grains Group VFF, president of a ah’s e orts to achieve RV Friendly status. experience leads me to believe that councils should leave indus- professional athletics club, Tungamah Football/Netball Club, hall 5. Don’t start me on this topic or we will be here all day. When- trial and residential development to private enterprise. Council’s and recreation reserves. I am also on the Moira Disability Advi- ever I drive from Koonoomoo to Shepparton via Labuan Road, it major function in this domain is to create opportunities, through sory Commi ee and have been Captain in the CFA for 25 years. always saddens me to see what it has now become on both sides of sustainable, creative planning and sound, future-proofed strategy. I have had considerable experience advocating for road and rail the road as a direct result of the MDBP. Where Labuan Road was Council should act as a facilitator to encourage private enterprise issues for this region, notably, Benalla-Oaklands rail line and fund- once was a lush green irrigated corridor, now dry paddocks are in to undertake projects that are, in turn, catalysts for growth. ing a er 2012  ood. Over the years, I have seen the enormous the majority. Far too many Murray River communities and their 4. Developing and encouraging tourism to and within the shire is amount of work done by our volunteers, they certainly are the people on both sides of the river have su ered and will continue a key platform on which I’m standing. Council should set a frame- life blood of our community and they should be supported and to su er from this MDBP in its current form. See, I told you not work that encourages the development of facilities that cater for encouraged. to get me started on this topic. 10 — Numurkahleader, Wednesday, October 7, 2020

ANY SYMPTOMS GET TESTED

It’s important to get tested for coronavirus at the first sign of any symptom and stay home until you get your result. Getting tested means you keep yourself, your friends, family, workplace and your community safe.

It’s not over yet.

Find out where to get tested visit vic.gov.au/CORONAVIRUS

Authorised and published by the Victorian Government, 1 Treasury Place, Melbourne Numurkahleader, Wednesday, October 7, 2020 — 11 Fitting final tribute to a Numurkah paramedic A FITTING final tribute was paid to former ambulance paramedic the late Richard (Dick) Cursons last Thursday, with an ambulance es- cort provided to his final resting place at the Nu- murkah Lawn Cemetery. Dick died in the early hours of Sunday, Sep- tember 27, when he suffered a cardiac arrest in the ambulance while enroute to Goulburn Val- ley Health, after becoming unwell on Saturday evening. He was 77 years old. Born in London, UK on March 17, 1943, Dick emigrated to Australia in February 1965. Originally Dick came to Numurkah as an am- bulance officer in 1975, and continued to work in the district until 2007, when, after serving more than 38 years with Ambulance Victoria, he retired due to ill health at the age of 64. At the commencement of his paramedic ca- reer, Dick had joined the then Victorian Civil Ambulance Service in La Trobe St. Melbourne. He worked in both metropolitan and regional areas such as Mordialloc and Wangaratta prior to finally settling in Numurakah. Dick worked as the Victorian ambulance ser- vice progressed through its name changes, to Fitting tribute ... Dick Cursons was honoured with an ambulance escort leading his funeral cortege to the Numurkah lawn cemetery last the Rural Ambulance Victoria, Ambulance Ser- week. vice Victoria and finally Ambulance Victoria. In 2004 Dick was awarded the Ambulance Ser- vice Victoria 30 year Service Medal and also the 30 year Safe Driving Award. He was a recipient of the Australian National Medal, for service. Dick was well known across the Numurkah district, having been involved in a number of local community activities apart from his para- medic work. He had been a member of the Nu- murkah Masonic Lodge, Apex club and Lions club, where he held the secretary position for 11 years. He also provided first aid classes in con- junction with the Numurkah Red Cross, and assisted with the staff education program at the Numurkah & District War Memorial Hospital, over many years. Dick was a well respected member of the Nu- murkah community and is survived by his wife Kerry, children Karen, Tania and Phillip Cur- sons, his stepchildren Tyler, Aaron and Brett Swann, his combined 16 grandchildren and his great granddaughter. Long and dedicated service ... Dick Cursons served 38 years with Ambulance Victoria, 22 of which were in Numurkah.

ADVERTISEMENT Peter Mansfield YOUR LOCAL CANDIDATE Vote 1 Get Moira Moving • Flood protection for Tungamah and Numurkah • Acquire Yarrawonga Primary School site for community use • Provide recreation infrastructure across the Shire for residents benefit • Maintain our roads to a high standard and seal our high usage roads • Attract industry to our shire

AUTHORISED BY PETER MANSFIELD, 9 LYNCH STREET YARRAWONGA 12 — Numurkahleader, Wednesday, October 7, 2020 Mental health support for young Victorians

YOUNG people with mental ill-health who live in other employment support programs. and support young people who are experiencing fore she joined the program she was incredibly in regional Victoria will be supported to achieve RACV’s General Manager of Social Impact and mental ill-health with finding employment and stressed out about many things that were hap- their education and employment goals thanks to Corporate Communications, Louise Steinfort, educational opportunities.” pening in her life and they all related to finances. a new three-year partnership between RACV and said the Orygen partnership will help young Orygen’s associate director of employment and “I now have two jobs that help me support my- youth mental health organisation Orygen. Victorians negatively affected by the COVID-19 education partnerships, Gina Chinnery, said IPS self as well as my family members. I am grateful The partnership will establish a Youth Individ- pandemic in terms of mental health support and was the most evidence-based and effective form for the support I have received from this pro- ual Placement and Support Centre of Excellence employment opportunities. of employment support for people experiencing gram,” she said. at Orygen, which will expand and drive the im- “There has been significant disruption to the serious mental illness, but was out of reach for Ms Chinnery said the first youth IPS site in re- plementation of Individual Placement and Sup- lives of young people caused by the COVID-19 many young Australians. gional Victoria was expected to come online in port (IPS) programs for young people at sites pandemic, impacting the mental health and “We are very excited to partner with RACV to early 2021, to support young people experienc- across regional Victoria. wellbeing of many young Victorians. RACV rec- launch our youth IPS Centre of Excellence to ing mental illness find employment or continue Under the IPS model, education and employ- ognises the need for more mental health services provide expert support to mental health servic- their studies. ment services are embedded alongside clinical in regional Victoria that support young people es, industry and the IPS workforce,” Ms Chin- “Our research tells us that young people with practice within youth mental health services. and that’s why we’ve partnered with Orygen,” nery said. mental ill-health have the same aspirations as Orygen research has demonstrated this can dra- Ms Steinfort said. “This will ultimately help more young people other young people - they want to work and matically improve employment success rates, “We have a responsibility, now more than ever with mental ill-health who live in regional Victo- study,” she said. with young people participating in IPS programs during the COVID-19 crisis, to support young ria to find work or study opportunities.” “This partnership with the RACV will go a being up to three times more likely to achieve people experiencing mental-ill health. This part- Penelope, a young person who has found long way in realising these goals for young peo- employment outcomes than those participating nership with Orygen aims to expand services employment through an IPS program, said be- ple in rural and regional Victoria.”

Letter to the Editor

The Corona Shut-In The Corona was a virus, The Corona was a pain, The Corona was a problem We’re extending the I wouldn’t want again They stopped me from relaxing In a café or a diner — Due to a rotten bug JobKeeper Payment until That came from out of China I had to wear a mask And go around all gloved, — Avoiding all my family, 28 March 2021. And the friends I loved I’ve got loads of toilet paper, Plus beans and rice beside — Tho’ a virus roams the streets, I’m nice and safe inside The Australian Government is extending the So I’m dodging all the germs temporary JobKeeper Payment to the end of And bugs which are microbic — And I’m never going out, March 2021. From 28 September, businesses ’Cos now I’m agoraphobic!

must meet the turnover test and submit their Andrew Guild declarations by the 14th of each month. A Survivor’s Tale There will be two new payment rates – one WHILST I don’t want to be a hypochon- driac over the Covid-19 virus, I have to for those who work more than 20 hours per wonder if I contracted the disease. It didn’t last for too long, so either I had a short- week in the relevant period, and another for lived bad cold (or a case of “man flu”, heav- en forbid) or I was one of those who got the those who work less. The employee eligibility Coronavirus with hardly any ill-effects. To err on the side of caution, I self-isolated for date has also changed to 1 July, meaning three weeks, just in case.

some businesses could claim for more staff. I was at home, by myself, On a cold and windy night, When a bug into me slyly crept It’s part of our plan to keep business in To give me a medical fright

business, and Australians in jobs. My body became so very cold, For hours I did shiver and shake: “Oh my God, show some mercy; Please help me, for pity’s sake!” My forehead now was overly warm, Though my chest was chilled as ice; Is it Coronavirus — or a cold? 28 Mar 2021 Either way, it didn’t feel nice JobKeeper In the morning, I woke up fine, Though, in my head, I had a pain — That ache, it lasted several days; Payment Oh, my poor and suffering brain

Yet, abroad so many are dying, About one million, or more — But all I got was a short-lived cold; Visit Australia.gov.au So I’ve much to be thankful for. Andrew Guild

Authorised by the Australian Government, Canberra NumurkahLEADER, Wednesday, October 7, 2020 — 13 Giving the fi ghter a chance THERE’S a corner of Strathmerton where humans, a few times a week, and is also on medi- you’ll see a few things you wouldn’t normally see cation and  ed with leg splints. on an Aussie farm. On the Payne farm, you’ll nd “We have seen some improvement,” Kellie said. the usual farm animals - sheep and cows - but “She wasn’t responding to hoof touch at all to they might not be doing quite what you’d expect. begin with, but she does now, and she also re- Back in May, the Leader introduced you to Bub- sponds to pain when she has her injections. She bles, the sheep who thinks she’s a dog, and she’s still can’t weight bear, but the masseuse thinks he now been joined by Bu ons - a calf in a wheel- can get her there, and we’re hopeful, but it will be chair. a slow process.” Kellie and BJ Payne took Bu ons in around ve In the meantime, when she isn’t having therapy weeks ago, when she was three weeks old, to save or running around the farm, Bu ons is enjoying her from being put down, a fairly luxurious existence.  ough Bu ons was able to bear her own “She has a wa e ma ress and doonas and pil- weight for the rst week or so of her life, for rea- lows to sleep on and she loves to snuggle into sons unknown, she lost that ability. With no time them. Her bed is be er is than ours.” to try and rehabilitate her, her owners o ered Whilst Bu ons is now on her second wheel- Bu ons to the Paynes in an e ort to give her a chair, plans are in place to purchase a new ‘zoom- chance. ie’ that can grow with her. Kellie Payne told the Leader she was more then As keen as Kellie is to get Bu ons back on her happy to give it her best shot. feet, and as fond of the li le calf as she clearly is, “I thought she deserved a chance, and I have she is also realistic. the time to devote to her, whereas they didn’t, so “We won’t keep her going if she’s in pain, I wanted to at least try,” she said. but while she’s enjoying life we’ll keep doing  e rst thing Kellie did was look into a way everything we can for her. of ge ing Bu ons to support herself as best she “She’s family to us now, and we want to give her could. every chance.” “Her previous owners had her in a sling, which The three amigos ... Buttons and her canine was helping keep her o the ground, but wasn’t ideal because it would have led to her front legs brothers enjoy life together on the farm. deteriorating as well, when they’re actually ne,” she said.  e solution was found for $10 in a Cobram op-shop - a second hand wheelchair. “She took to it straight away and has been really good with it and gets around the farm like there’s no tomorrow. “She’s extremely mobile, and chases the dogs and lambs around like she doesn’t have a care in the world.” Whilst Kellie is glad that Bu ons is mobile, the aim has always been to get her back on all four feet, and Kellie and BJ are taking a range of meas- Zoom ... Kellie said Buttons gets around the ures to make that happen, if at all possible. farm on her wheelchair like there’s no tomorrow. Bu ons has physio sessions with a masseuse, who is experienced at treating both animals and

ADVERTISEMENT ADVERTISEMENT FRED DOUGLAS Candidate for Moira Shire Electi on 2020 VOTE 1 MAXIMISING MOIRA’S GREATEST ASSETS – ITS BEAUTY, ITS BUSINESSES, ITS PEOPLE My wife and I have a 35+ year history with Don Moira Shire. We’ve forged friendships with people in the townships. We’ve admired the fl air and forti tude of local businesses. We’ve made Bundalong our home. As water sports McPhee enthusiasts, we’ve seen on the waterways the habitats that are unique to the region. The natural environment must be sensibly managed, because of its uniqueness and because, through tourism, it’s a signifi cant driver of economic growth. Equally as precious is the vibrancy of our built environment and valuable local industry. We need a sustainable, strategic vision that addresses Passionate for Shire the challenges endured by the Shire, including drought, bushfi res, fl oods, unemployment, a slowing local economy and the impacts of COVID-19. Supporting: Preferences GOVERNANCE, PROPERTY EXPERIENCE, COMMUNITY SERVICE. As a seasoned • Planning infrastructure and property professional, I know economic prosperity is achieved through a 1 Don McPhee facilities for Yarrawonga are: complex balance of fi nancial, environmental and community needs. To att ract 2 Peter Elliott investment and create more jobs, we need positi ve dialogue with companies - Library Community Hub 3 Peter Mansfi eld and Government agencies. I have a proven track record as a collaborator. I seek out the things that unite, rather than focus on the issues that divide. As - Indoor Multi-Purpose facility 4 Marie Martin a Member of the Australian Insti tute of Company Directors, I take imparti ality - Securing Primary School site 5 Judy Heather and good governance seriously. I’ve served on the Yarrawonga Health Board for 3 years, am a Member of Yarrawonga Neighbourhood House Committ ee for community use 6 Wendy Buck 7 Scott Olson of Management, Mulwala Water Ski Club and YM Golf Club, Volunteer • Maintenance of rural roads with Community Accessability and I have stood aside from the Moira Shire 8 Julie Brooks Council Audit Committ ee to run for Council. I’m an energeti c and opti misti c particularly dust suppression 9 Ed Cox person. I see opportuniti es for att racti ng investment. I see opportuniti es in small community 10 Geoff Campbell for strengthening infrastructure and industry. Most importantly in these challenging ti mes, I see opportuniti es for building community resilience. • Support for fl ood mitigation 11 Kevin Bourke projects particularly 12 Peter Lawless Fred Douglas Numurkah 13 Wayne Limbrick Bundalong • Completion of sports 14 Fred Douglas fred@douglasbennett .com.au facilities at Scotts Oval, 15 Andrew Goldman 0428 962 882 @FredDouglasForMoiraCouncil Cobram 16 Libro Mustica 17 John Beitzel Don McPhee for Council Re-Election Authorised by Fred Douglas, PO Box 723, Yarrawonga VIC 3730 Authorised by Don McPhee, 54 Tom Street Yarrawonga 3730 14 — NumurkahLEADER, Wednesday, October 7, 2020 A CUPPA WITH DOM

AFull name: NicoleCuppa Ann Henderson, owner of with Nicole This week in 1920 ... Flowers on Melville To celebrate the State Library of Victoria’s Age: 48 digitising of the war years editions of the Numurkah Marital status: Married, with one cat Leader, each week we will include the news of the Schools a ended: St Patrick’s Primary School week, 100 years ago. Tongala, Mission Beach Primary School, St Mary To view these editions online go to trove.nla.gov. of the Angels Nathalia, GOTAFE, Monash Univer- au/ndp/del/title/591. sity Frankston campus, Holmsglen TAFE Honor Board Unveiled. Summer or winter? Summer, because I hate be- There was a large gathering at the shire Hall when the ing cold. shire honor board, containing the names of over 300 sol- Beach or mountains? Beach diers who enlisted from the Eastern and central ridings Oscar the Grouch or Cookie Monster? Big Bird of the shire, was unveiled by Brigadier-General Brand, Crunchie or Violet Crumble? Violet Crumble C.B., C.M.G., D.S.O. The State-school children were Elvis or  e Beatles? e Beatles marched through the street to the hall, headed by the AC/DC or INXS? Neither. My favourite Austral- Town Band, and proceedings opened with the National ian band would be e Whitlams. Anthem. Favourite colour? Green and purple; I love them Cr. Harry Dudley (shire President, formally intro- both and I couldn’t choose one over the other. duced the General, and apologised for the absence of Favourite song? I don’t have a favourite song, but Mr J. D. Mitchell. M.L.A. and Mr W. C. Hill, M.H.R Cr. my favourite band is Belle and Sebastian, who are Dudley explained that it had been discovered that some Sco ish, and any one of their songs, any day, any names had been omitted from the board and that these time, any where, would do. would be inserted almost immediately. Favourite TV show? I like Vera. I like those Eng- Brigadier-General Brand, who was very warmly re- lish murder-y, crime type shows. ey’re pre y ceived, said that it fell to his lot twice a week, on an av- predictable - I mean, why does anyone still live in erage to attend some function that had for its object the those places where there are so many murders - but honoring of the returned soldier. The functions were in- I do enjoy them. Favourite movie? e Sound of Music. A friend tended to commemorate, if he might put it that way, the of it wasn’t necessarily where I wanted to take it; I and I travelled to Europe and stayed in Salzburg, found what it is you want to do? spirit of self-sacrifice that prompted the men of the A.I.F. just wanted to be able to make things. where e Sound of Music was  lmed, for three I think so, yeah, at least for the foreseeable future. to leave the shores of Australia in order to fulfill their duty I did markets and things for a while a er I  n- nights. We stayed in the hostel because they pro- If you could have one superpower what would to the Empire. It was his duty as well as his privilege to ished, and then I got into paper making because it moted themselves as playing the Sound of Music you choose? attend such functions, which were promoted in order to was almost instant. if you were making something every day, and we’d go out every morning and do To be able to create more time when you need it. pay the honor due to brave men. The boards scattered out of metal it was a really slow process and took a a walking tour or some other sight-seeing. One When you’re completely under the pump and you throughout the length and breadth of Victoria were in- really long time, but paper was quick. I started mak- morning it was raining so we thought we’d just stay just need another hour, to just be able to create that tended as lasting memorials to the men who went over- ing invitations and things like that and selling them in and watch the movie, but they didn’t put it on. hour. seas. Amongst the names on the board he would shortly at markets. We told them that was why we’d decided to stay A er high school, you studied to be a gold and unveil were those of men many of whom had been in I’ve always been into creating something in an art there, so he put it on for us, and then we went out silversmith didn’t you? How did you get into the landing of Gallipoli. For Australians the story of Gal- or cra way. Cra is a bit of a loaded term I sup- in the a ernoon. that? lipoli was one of the most thrilling chapters in the history pose, and it’s not considered in the same way as art, Favourite book? Ooh, I’m not sure about that I studied art at GOTAFE and you did po ery, of the war. By their deeds the Australian soldiers threw a or taken as seriously, but it is still an expression of one, that’s a hard question and painting, and drawing and photography and all glamor over the name “Australia,” and made of valour a creativity. Do you make lists? Yes, I do, but they might take sorts of things. Gold and silver-smithing was by far tradition. Deeds of equal valor and with greater results, I don’t really create things like that any more; it a li le while to get ticked o . my favourite part of that course, so a er I  nished had been performed on other fronts but the unparal- all comes out in the  oristry. All of those principles Who do you admire? that I went to Monash for four years and studied it leled effort to carry out the great Gallipoli adventure and elements right at the start of an art education ere are a few  orist industry people who I full time. had blazoned the name of Australia across the world. are embedded, so everything you do has that there follow, who have made stu happen and followed For me, it wasn’t so much about jewellery, but But whether the men whose names were shown on the even though you don’t know that you’re using it. their path. about bigger pieces; I was much more interested in board were “Anzacs,” or whether they had followed their You’re not necessarily aware of it, but because it’s What type of kid were you? creating containers, vessels, that sort of thing. comrades later, they were all “Diggers”(applause) been there from 25 years ago, it’s just there and Quiet. I wasn’t sporty; I was a reader and I liked What did you enjoy about that? and in that all embracing term were included that fine it’s an instant thing. I grab  owers now, and I don’t cra . I had a sister, but I could easily entertain my- Turning something into something else, like turn- body of men who were never absent without leave know why I grab that combination but somewhere self. ing a  at thing into a shaped thing, or a  at thing (laughter) fine, chivalrous, sell-sacrificing comrades back in my brain is why I grab that combination. What football team do you support? into something that would stand up, or hold liquid one to the other (applause) men who never ere is always those embedded elements and No-one. I don’t follow football and I don’t care or something like that. I suppose that ability to be criticised their officers or called their sergeants names. principles that come into play without me thinking about it at all. My family didn’t really have a team able to change the form of something really ap- (Loud laughter.) Some people said that the A.I.F. won about it; kind of like a muscle memory in the brain. when I was growing up, apart from a passing inter- pealed to me. the war  (applause) some that Lloyd George did, When did you start to become interested in est in Carlton maybe, but I never got into it and it It was always hard because you had to have that some the navy, the submarines, the munition workers.  owers and  oristry? just doesn’t do anything for me. ‘art’ reason behind what you were doing, but some- Horatio Bottomleythe Diggers knew him(laugh- Always. My grandmother had a nursery in When you were a kid, what did you want to be times all I wanted to do was make a box, or a bowl ter) but until he was coming home through America Queensland and we’d always be playing around when you grew up? and not have it mean something. he did not know who really was responsible for the win- and doing things there, and I did work experience ere was no one particular thing, and even at 18, ere was one particular lecturer that always ning- of the war. (Loud laughter.) He had had the honor and had an a er school job at Roselea here in Nu- or 30, what do you want to be? ere was never re- insisted that it had to mean something. So, a cup of taking 100 officers on loan to America, so that he had murkah. ally one thing that I knew I wanted to do, so I just could never just be a cup; it had to mean something. an opportunity of putting some of the people right on I’d been working in admin for nine years and I just moseyed along and found di erent li le paths to at was always challenging for me, because at the that score. decided that if I didn’t do it then, it wasn’t going to follow. end of the day, sometimes I just wanted to make a 1914-15 Stars happen, so I went for it and I did my Cert III in Flo- Now you’re a  orist, does that mean you’ve bowl and not have it mean something. at art side The Brigadier presented to Mr E. Cope and Mrs J. R. ristry. Prideaux the 1914-15 stars to which their sons (Private ey had to un-teach me a few things, because I A. L. Cope. 4th L.H., and Private G. R. Prideaux 3rd would just do things automatically, which wasn’t al- Batt.) would have been entitled had they been spared ways the ‘right’ way to do them. I don’t necessarily to return. In making the presentations, the Brigadier said do things the right way now, but, anyway, at least I the stars were simply the British Empire’s token of grati- know what rules I’m breaking. tude to those who had seen the path of | duty and trod it. Is it everything you thought it would be? e  oristry part is enjoyable, but the business Flood Damage.A deputation of landholders from part can be di cult. It’s not just going in and ‘play- Nathalia visited on the State Rivers and Water Supply ing’ with  owers, you need to make everything Commission to ask relief from excessive flood waters, balance up. I suppose that’s the challenge, because the result of erosion at the breaks in the Goulburn levee there’s the creative side and then there’s the busi- at Loch Garry. It was stated that the flood waters of the ness side and they need to come together some- Goulburn River began to flow through the gaps when where. It’s been a challenge, but it’s been good. the river registered 25 points at Shepparton, where- Are you someone that looks for a challenge? as originally the water did not spread until the height Not really, generally I’d just go along. I wouldn’t was 30ft. They asked that protection should be given say I’m someone that looks at something and by putting a levee round Loch Garry, a distance of five thinks ‘I need to bust that wall down’. miles, and a spill-over put into the Deep Creek channel. What do you enjoy most about what you do Mr Cattanach, chairman of the commission, said that a now? scheme submitted by the commission had been reject- I enjoy when the seasons change and you can tell ed by the landholders. He thought it would be necessary that new  owers are going to start coming through. to take the opinion of the whole of those interested in Now that we’re into spring, waratahs are in, and the levees. He feared that the commission could hold they’re only on for about three weeks, and when out no hope of doing anything unless the landholders they’re done, peonies will come in. So you’re al- were prepared with some financial support. He prom- ways anticipating that next thing. Even if something ised that a full report would be prepared. NumurkahLEADER, Wednesday, October 7, 2020 — 15 A CUPPA WITH DOM is only in for a few weeks, that’s good too because been about making things more streamlined. thing happen in Numurkah what would be on you’ve been to shop, and the butcher, and you’ve it shows you that the seasons keep moving and What is your favourite ower? the list? put petrol in the car and then you go and get ow- everything is dictated by them. You can’t ask a orist that! It’s like asking a mother Hmm, I don’t know really.  ere are always things ers for the house for the weekend. In Europe, it’s As far as what I enjoy about the business, that’s who her favourite child is. At the moment, I’d say happening in the background that people don’t a traditional thing to get owers weekly for your trickier. I suppose it is satisfying to establish a goal it’s waratahs, because they’re in season and they’re necessarily know about until they appear, and we house, but here, it’s not something you normally do and work towards it, and then when you get there amazing. All you need is three waratahs in a jar, and have a few positive things that are being worked on for yourself, so it’s a nice surprise when someone it’s rewarding. nothing else. at the moment that will be good for the commu- does it for you. Floristry seem to have held it’s own during Do you grow owers? nity. What are you most looking forward to COVID; what do you put that down to? I have a few growing, but I don’t have time to look Numurkah is a nice li le community, and I don’t post-COVID? While we’ve been in lockdown, especially while a er them, so they have to make their own way in think we really need any big, fancy things to draw A holiday. Just a change of scenery, a di erent people haven’t been able to eat in at cafés and res- the world. If they survive they survive, if not, then people in. We’re a nice, central base for a lot of four walls to look at it. I think everyone’s just so taurants, people haven’t been able to celebrate ‘o h w e l l ’. things that you can do in this area, so I think we contained; it’s just home and work, if you’re lucky events like birthdays by meeting up for lunch or You’re secretary of Love Our Lifestyle; what already have a lot to a ract people, and there are enough to have work to go to, and we all just want dinner with friends, so there have been a lot of do you wish people understood about running some improvements in the works that will o er to do something di erent. birthday owers going out. I don’t know how many a business in a small community like Numurk- more for people when they are here. I had some people in the shop the other day and times I’ve wri en happy birthday in the last six ah? Is there something you think that Numurkah I could tell they weren’t from Numurkah so I asked months.  at it’s challenging, particularly if you’re a does particularly well that people might not re- them where they were from and they said Cobram. Everybody has a birthday, but iso birthdays seem sole-trader. Some people are in their shops by alise? It’s only half an hour away, but it was enough; they to be something that people really want to ac- themselves, but there is support as well.  ere are Community. People are happy to help out, happy were going somewhere di erent for lunch, looking knowledge and because owers are something that people you can go and have a chat to if you’ve got a to help people and look out for people. I’ve seen in some di erent shops, so it didn’t ma er how far have always been associated with those occasions, question or a problem; there is always someone to that in the shop over this COVID time; I’ve seen away it was. people are turning to them, even if it’s not what help, and if you don’t ask, you won’t know. people do random acts of kindness. People will ring Of course, I can’t plan a holiday, because we still they’d normally do.  ere are good things about being a small town, and get a bunch of owers delivered to somebody don’t know what will happen for a while yet, but I’d Also, with funerals, if you can’t go to the funeral and I think COVID has shown that there are things who they have no real connection to, but they’ve you send sympathy owers, and because numbers you can do in Numurkah that people wouldn’t have seen them do something good or just want to rec- love to be able to book a trip back to Spain or Sri have been so limited at funerals that’s how people thought before. Most of our businesses have adapt- ognise them in some way. Lanka. have been showing their sympathy. ed and changed the way they work, so that people You o en see things that make you realise that What one issue do you feel humankind needs We’ve had a lot of add-ons too; people will say can get what they need without having to go online there are good people in our community that do to resolve to ensure a positive future? ‘pop some chocolates in as well’ or ‘have you got a or go to Shepparton. good things all the time. It’s easy to focus on the At the moment, it’s COVID isn’t it?  ere are so bo le of wine?’. I don’t know where that combina- It’s been a challenge, because things have been negative things, but that takes a lot of energy and many things we need to  x though, aren’t there, and tion of owers and chocolates and a balloon came changing so quickly, so we’ve had to constantly it’s so draining. they all so seem big and like, you, as one person, from, because it seems a bit random, but I suppose think, ‘right, we can’t do that now, so what are we  ose acts of kindness make two people hap- can’t make a di erence, and we don’t have great they are all things that make you smile. So, yes, going to do instead?’. py; the giver and the receiver, it’s a win-win, but if leadership on most of these things from the people we’ve been quite busy. I wouldn’t say COVID has been good, but it has you’re negative all the time it just drags you down. who are in a position to make a di erence. Has it changed how you’ve done business? made people aware of what we have here and what Why do you think owers are recognised as a I wish our politicians would show some real I have had to get into more of a routine, rather the possibilities are. I think, in the past, going out- way to celebrate things and a way to reach out leadership and make some decisions rather than than being reactive. Whereas before, I’d say, ‘right, side town to shop has just been what people did and make people happy? ip- opping. We don’t need 200 puppets telling we’ll do that delivery and get it done’, I’ve had to use automatically, thinking that was what they had to Traditionally they’ve always been a ached to us what we they think we want to hear, we need a bit more planning, and say ‘we’ll do deliveries at 2 do to get things. I think now they have a be er events, but there’s no reason you can’t just have people to lead and make decisions that will actually o’clock’ to make it work more for us. understanding that if they can’t get something in a owers in your house, just for you, because it does change things and  x some of the issues. Even if we We’ve had to do contact-less deliveries, and text particular shop, that person can point them in the make you feel be er. don’t like them, or necessarily agree with them, we people to let them know there’s a delivery at their right direction, or organise to get it for them. I suppose it’s one of those things that you don’t need people that will be decisive and know what door, all of which is  ne, but it takes time, so it’s If you could submit a wish-list and make any- usually do for yourself as a routine thing. You know, direction we’re going in.

Advertisement ADVERTISEMENT My mission is to achieve a measurable and tangible reduction in the cost of living for both residents and businesses in Moira. With a number of ‘shovel ready’ ideas, I am asking for you to please FRED DOUGLAS Candidate for Moira Shire Electi on 2020 MAXIMISING MOIRA’S GREATEST ASSETS ITS BEAUTY, ITS BUSINESSES, ITS PEOPLE. • 35 year history with Moira Shire Vote1 Scott Olson • Fresh perspecti ves needed • Att ract Investment • Strengthen Infrastructure & Industry to deliver economic prosperity to the Shire • Experience with Government, Property, Governance and Community Service MANSFIELD, Peter 9 Meet Fred – he will be in the Main Street * Cobram – Thu 8th – 9am to 11am MARTIN, Marie 6 * Numurkah – Thu 8th 12.30pm to 2.30pm * Barmah – Sat 10th – 9am to 10am HEATHER, Judy 5 * Nathalia – Sat 10th – 10.30am to 12.30pm ELLIOTT, Peter 8 Fred Douglas BEITZEL, John 16 fred@douglasbennett .com.au MUSTICA, Libro 14 0428 962 882 LIMBRICK, Wayne 11 Authorised by Fred Douglas, PO Box 723, Yarrawonga VIC 3730 @FredDouglasForMoiraCouncil OLSON, Scott A 1 BROOKS, Julie 10 ADVERTISEMENT BOURKE, Kevin J. 3 GOLDMAN, Andrew 13 CAMPBELL, Geoff 4 BUCK, Wendy 17 COX, Ed 15 MCPHEE, Don 7 LAWLESS, Peter Joseph 12 DOUGLAS, Fred 2

I believe in balanced representation across the entire Shire, where public and business decisions made by Council do not unduly favour any one person or group to the detriment of the community as a whole.

Authorised by Scott Olson, 7092 Goulburn Valley Hwy, Koonoomoo M: 0428 712 774 16 — NumurkahLEADER, Wednesday, October 7, 2020 Legends through the lens WITH summer sport approaching, the Leader is commitment that is hiding on farms, and in garages James Su on to capture images of our local sporting nearing the end of it’s Local Sporting Legends series. and o ces and living rooms across the district, it’s heroes. While it’s been a chance to tell tales of the skill and also been a chance for the Leader’s graphic designer Here we take a look back at some of our favourites.

Jai Warren

Bev Braybon Bussy Davies NUMURKAH LEADER

Project2_Layout 1 13/10/14 9:23 AM Page 1 WANT THIS SPACE? CONTRACTGEOFF JOHNESS FARMS Just $50 a week for a minimum 4 weeks HARVESTINGEDDY HAY SALES & CONTRACTING AVAILABLE FOR THE CURRENT • Windrowing CompleteBUILDER service or we A great way to get in touch with Buildings & Alterations HAY & SILAGE SEASON • Headers can work in with you. OFFERING MOWER CONDITIONING • DISC • Chaser binsof QualityA extra Homes header or truck your prospective new clients Bathroom & Kitchen Renovations MOWING • ROTARY RAKING • ROUND BALING • Trucks toMOBILE get the job done fast SMALL SQUARE BALING 5862 1034 • Silo bagging Call 0417 314 169 CONTACT JOHN STACPOOLE [email protected] 0418 326 478 NigelReg No. DB-U6526 Sutton E:Numurkah [email protected] 0429 002 064 CONTRACT HARVESTING Numurkah Building & Plumbing P/L Reg No DBU24094 • Windrowing Complete service or we Specialising in: • Headers can work in with you. Numurkah Sand and Gravel Ph: Kris - 0437 073 244 Ash - 0418 879 636 • New Homes • Pergolas • Reroofi ng A extra header or truck Specialising in septic systems • Chaser bins NEW LOCATION 2046 NATHALIA RD, NUMURKAH • Trucks to get the job done fast Truck and dogs • Water truck hire • Loader hire • Road grader at 140m ONE CALL DOES IT ALL 1xgps • Excavator 2x20t 1x30t gps • White rock • Cream and red granite • Silo bagging • Hill rock • 20mm - 40mm brown rock • Blue rock (various sizes) • Matt: 0407 046 331 Phil: 0419 360 905 Call 0417 314 169 Stone dust • Washed pebbles (various sizes) • Agg rock and Septic Mark: 0427 646 231 rock • Garden topsoil • Packing sand • Lawn sand • Washed river sand • Nigel Sutton E: [email protected] Commix • Compost • Mulch and barks NumurkahLEADER, Wednesday, October 7, 2020 — 17 NumurkahLEADER

PUBLIC PUBLIC NOTICES NOTICES FOR SALE FOR SALE FOR SALE BUSINESS NOTICES BIRTHDAYS MAROON leather like two seater and 2 one seaters, all 95th recliners. Need to Birthday Numurkah Golf Three months old, paid $1799, will sell Happy birthday ADVERTISING & Bowls Club for $1499. DEADLINES TWO La-Z-boy Mr Monk recliners, chocolate Phone. 5862 3761 advertise BOWLS ______Classifi ed CEDAR WINDOW brown fabric; 9.10.2020 Line Ads: SECTION Must go, make an From the Down A  G  — 2.7 x 2.1m, in Family 12 noon good condition. Ideal offer. Tuesday M  Ph: 0417 382 153 to CAR hoist, Wild regionally? ______for extensions or Boar 4 ton, as new. Tuesday October 13 renovation. $75. arrange an inspection Display Ads: $3,550. Bookings by at 4pm Ph: 0417 382 153. (Numurkah). ______Contact Lance 0457 DEATHS 12 noon OPENING DAY 498 249. Talk to us! Monday Sunday October 18 ______THOMPSON Mixed Triples SITUATIONS VACANT We can organise all your Ph: 5862 1034 (Clout) — Jill 88 Melville St 12.30pm assembly advertising needs in 22.3.1931~5.10.2020 Numurkah for 1pm start Barwo Homestead, Nathalia Passed away one easy step. peacefully at Pioneers Memorial FOOD & DOMESTIC Lodge, Numurkah. Loved and loving STRATHMERTON ASSISTANT wife of John (dec.), PRE SCHOOL 5pm – 7.30pm. 2012 SUBARU mother of Alan, Ian Saturday and Sunday alternate weekends Outback wagon. and Philip, mother- NOW TAKING and extra shifts as required excellent condition in-law of Jo and Trish, grandmother A good rapport with the elderly is essential. $12,000 ONO - 4 ENROLMENTS mths rego 1II6LR, of Marcus, Andrew A Police Record check must be provided by 190,000km. Genuine 5862 1034 • [email protected] and Josh; Emma and FOR 2021 successful applicant. Amy. Off ering 3 and 4 year old programs buyers only. Further details from: Mrs. Lynda Walker Ph: 0407 662 601. For more information Phone: 5866 2574 Mum and Dad Contact pre-school office Reunited Applications close:16th October, 2020 Ph: 5874 5486 Written applications to: Mrs. Lynda Walker Please see daily 8 Federation St., Nathalia. 3638 Have your papers for funeral SITUATIONS VACANT Local Phone details or contact – TENDERS Peter Cox & Sons Book details 5862 3047 changed?

FUNERAL 2020 Numurkah and District DIRECTORS Local Phonebook

An opportunity to join the Moira team and develop  your career with an innovative leader committed to NCN Health has the following  C014/20     
 delivering excellent services. vacancies: Moira Shire Community Road and Drainage Organisation of the year 2020 Upgrade Works, River Road Administration Support Enrolled Nurse or Please let us know Yarrawonga Officer before next year’s edition so that we Submissions closing Location: Cobram Registered Nurse - 4pm Wednesday 28 can ensure that all October 2020 Type: Permanent Part Time (22.8 hours) FUNE LS Theatre-Day Procedure the information is Salary: $30.1611 per hour + 9.5% Professional service Specification documents can be obtained by correct visiting www.moira.vic.gov.au/our-council/tenders Superannuation Numurkah & Cobram Campuses and chapel Up to 1.1 EFT - Part Time Fixed Term All submissions are to be lodged electronically. at a ordable prices Late, hard copy, e-mailed or facsimile Municipal Labourer to 12th October 2021 submissions will not be accepted. Lowest or any 88 Melville Street tender not necessarily accepted. (Multi-Site) Ph 5862 1034 5862 2332 Physiotherapist printads@ IVAN NEWBY Location: Multiple Locations Across the Shire Mark Henderson Across NCN Campuses leader.net.au Type: Permanent Full Time PETER K KE Chief Executive Officer Up to 2.0 EFT - Full Time Permanent/ Salary: $56,808.44 + 9.5% Superannuation Job Share available Municipal Labourer Exercise Physiologist FUNERAL DIRECTORS Location: Multiple Locations Across the Shire Type: Casual Across NCN Campuses 1.0 EFT - Full Time Permanent MEETINGS Salary: $35.7489 per hour + 9.5% Superannuation Peter Cox & Sons Occupational Funeral Directors P/L For further information about the above positions, Therapist Cnr Meiklejohn and Quinn Sts., Numurkah visit moira.elmotalent.com.au/careers/Moira/jobs. CARING, PROFESSIONAL SERVICE, Across NCN Campuses TAILORED TO YOUR NEEDS Moira Shire Council is an Equal Opportunity Up to 1.2 EFT - Full Time/Part Time Employer offering flexible work arrangements for Permanent Phone 5862 3047 employees in a family-friendly work place. 24 hours – 7 days a week Moira promotes a workplace that actively seeks to Physiotherapist include, welcome and value the contributions of Across NCN Campuses all people and encourages people with a disability, Aboriginal Australians, young people and people 1.0 EFT - Full Time Fixed to 8th October 2021 (Maternity Leave) TUTTLES from culturally diverse backgrounds to apply. — FUNERAL SERVICES — Visit our website for further information including position Phone 1300 858 333 descriptions, contact details, closing Caring 24 hour service TROPHIES & ENGRAVING dates and the application process. Inc. Binger & Tuttle, Limbrick & Tuttle, NUMURKAH LEADER www.ncnhealth.org.au Numurkah Funeral Services 18 — NumurkahLEADER, Wednesday, October 7, 2020 Margot best of the best match, with Robyn defeating Croquet’s back Margot McGrath, three up Numurkah croquet players with two holes to play. were extremely pleased to be It’s o cially almost chick run back on the courts and able to season, but as things are still play both socially and compet- not back to normal, it will be itively last week. a few weeks still before we get Whilst they are not nding it back out for our  ursday x. di cult to comply with most A decision will be made af- of the regulations on a croquet ter the Premier makes his next court, especially the social dis- announcement on the easing tancing, the one causing a few of restrictions on October 19, grumbles is the wearing of face but we are looking at maybe masks, and everyone is hoping starting in November. this rule changes before the ex-  e virtual pennant sea- treme hot weather arrives. son kicks o this Sunday and A short GVCA association Monday, with all teams play- pennant season (three rounds) ing fourball matches on their begins today. Numurkah’s Happy to be back ... Association croquet players Maria home course, and then the team of four are playing Rich Kempton and Cheryl O’Dwyer at practise last Friday, enjoy- scores will be married to the Here’s cheers ... Margot McGrath’s was the best of a num- River at Moama, thus requir- ing being back on the court. opposition team’s. Due to this ber of great scores recorded last Wednesday. ing all team members to obtain pennant season, which will opponents’ balls, which were format, players are allowed to a border pass. Helen Pickersgill has been start tomorrow. Numurkah both in a position to run the by “ e Shankster” play on Sunday or Monday, Association practise is held EVEN a good score wasn’t in some great form on the has two teams of four, Blues next hoop, le his ball in the which gives the working girls every Friday morning begin- good enough to win last golf course lately, and she skippered by Kevin Hansen perfect position to make that a chance to join the pennant ning at 9am, and anyone inter- Wednesday’s monthly med- again continued this trend to and the Whites by David Ged- hoop, and proceeded to do so team, for a change. ested in trying croquet will be al round at Numurkah Golf win Saturday’s Neville Smith des. Blue will be host to Rich in his next turn and also win We have, subsequently, en- made most welcome by club Club. You needed a really great sponsored stableford trophy tered two teams this year, both members. River Kangas this week, while the game. score. round, with a lovely score of teams being in separate groups. A hardy group of golf cro- White will travel to Moama to It’s a shame players don’t give With three players all ne ing 39 points. In group two, Numurkah Pink quet members continued play RR Emus. the scribe a warning that they down into the 60s, even one of  irty-seven points was a will play Ky Parkland/Mer- playing during the level three Last Tuesday morning’s golf are about to play an unbelieva- those had to se le for a run- popular score, until the four rigum, while Numurkah Blue COVID-19 restrictions, when croquet social play produced ble extraordinary shot, so that ner-up position. players on that score realised will play Rich River Two in there could only be two play- two of the best shots seen on she might have a chance to pull It was Margot McGrath who they were two shots shy of the group four. ers to a court, a string of oth- the Numurkah courts for a out the camera! had the best score of the day, win. Today’s golf was supposed to er regulations to follow and very long time. Prior to the COVID-19 re- winning division two and the Robyn Hodgkin won the be the yearly medal play-o , extremely cold weather.  eir On court two, Kevin Hansen strictions beginning in March, monthly medal, with a fabu- countbacks to nish in second but with lots of rain forecast, perseverance is to be admired, played an extraordinary, eight the Goulburn Valley Croquet lous 67 ne , two shots clear of place, ahead of Bev McIntosh, the commi ee made the de- but it seems all the extra sin- metre jump shot from the Association had plans in place Merren Carr. Helen Schmedje and Bev cision to postpone this for a gles practice was not wasted, boundary, leaving his stunned for an Invitation Challenge Helen Schmedje nished Hutchins. Jan Niven won a ball week, so today, weather per- judging by their current form. opponent’s ball still si ing in match against the North East with 68 ne , winning division with 36 points, and Merren mi ing, will just be a stroke the hoop. To add insult to inju- Croquet Association.  e one by three shots from Robyn Carr rounded out the winners With doubles now being round. played, the club expects to ry, his partner, Joan T. Hansen, li ing of some restrictions in Hodgkin, with 71 ne . with 34.  ose eligible for next proceeded to make a hoop-in- Regional Victoria last week Gayle Smith won a three- Robyn Hodgkin has been have an increase in numbers Wednesday’s play-o are Nor- on a Tuesday morning. Play one at the next hoop, to clinch allowed the Challenge to be way countback on 73 ne , to playing some terri c golf, and ma Crowe, Pauline Davies, the game. played at Shepparton on Mon- head the list of ball winners, went on to win the  elma is now starting at 9.30am with Rosemary Rutledge, Tracey names to be in no later than Not to be outdone, on court day. Graham Tyack was Nu- ahead of Norma Cullum and McBride singles knockout, Clouston, Bev McIntosh, Jul- three, David Geddes hit his murkah’s representative, play- Jeane e Adams. Lauris Ashton which somehow slipped past 9.15am. ie Hannaford, Felicity Booth, ball from the far end of the ing in division three, results won a ball with 74, and Tracey  e Shankster without me re-  e GVCA have also organ- Karen Harper, Helen Pickers- ised a shortened golf croquet court (25 metres), split his will be in next week’s report. Clouston pocketed the last of alising. gill, Helen Schmedje and Mar- the balls with 75.  is nal had been delayed got McGrath. Tracey also won the division for some time, due to COVID  is Saturday’s golf will be one scratch, with 79 shots, and restrictions on competition the Doug Larkin Refrigeration Margot had the best scratch golf, but, when they nally sixth and nal round of the sta- Kerry back to enjoying golf score in division two, with 90. got to play it, it was a terri c bleford trophy event. by “Archie Bunker” Steve  ornton, Paul Arnel, Hudson Storer and KERRY Collins appreciated being out on the Dudley Bryant, all with 36 points, and the last of golf course on Saturday, on a warm spring day, the balls went to Paul Collins, Ron Smith, Ryan for the Neville Smith sponsored  h round of Sprunt, Andrew Storer and Dylan Grandell on the stableford trophy event. 35 points. Crackerjack in fi ne touch Kerry’s 42 points was the best of a great bunch, Having a li le trouble nding his ball on the by “Rufus T. Fire y” to Mark Percy, a visitor from Ky Parkland who with the course in perfect conditions, and the 16th fairway earned the Mickey Mouse ears for JACK Dell easily had the overall best score in came in with the lowest total of 21 points. greens almost back to their best a er their re- Graeme “Sparra” Montgomery. last  ursday’s mid-week stableford competi- In a eld of 51 players the following individ- cent spring renovation. Sparra was driving along, looking for his tion at Numurkah Golf and Bowls Club. uals received a club ball for their score: Darryl Runner-up in B grade was the sponsor, Neville ball, when he stopped while one of his playing Scoring 43 points, Jack clearly out-pointed Sheridan, Peter Cowan, Alan Newby and Gra- Smith, whose 40 points saw him just miss out partners had his shot. Pre y certain his ball the rest of the eld, including fellow A grade ham Ashton all 36, Adam Farrell, Joe Mira- on taking home his own shirt. was somewhere close by, he got out of his cart contestant Graeme Montgomery, who was run- bella (Broadford GC), Sid Roughsedge, Neil Brayden Summerville put together a terrif- to have a look around, then, when he turned ner-up with a total of 36. Hutchins, Kerry Collins, Bill Padge and Bruce ic round of 39 points to win A grade, one shot around, he was heard saying to himself, “No  e winner of B grade was fellow retired Collins 35, John Smith, Nick Ludington and Ian ahead of Steve Piggo . wonder I couldn’t nd it, it’s under my cart”. school teacher Geo Partington who, on a score Gray 34. Balls down the line went to Martin Harper Right behind his front wheel actually, nestled of 40 stableford points, accounted for the in-  e golf course is in tip-top condition at the and Tyson Woods, both with 39 points, Dar- into the grass a er being run over by its owner. form Steve Jones in second place with a points moment and the greens are recovering quickly ryl Sheridan and Graeme Montgomery on 38,  is Saturday’s golf will be the sixth and nal total of 37. from their coring, all due to the hard work of Kevin Morland, John Trimble and Ian Gray with round of the stableford trophy, sponsored by  e NAGA award, a tin of boiled lollies, went superintendent Ma Campbell and his workers. 37, Les Summerville, Brent Karl, Dave Scanlan, Doug Larkin Refrigeration.

“THE TEAM TO TRUST”

THINKING OF SELLING? Call “The Team To Trust” We’re a family-owned and operated company and we pride ourselves on our trustworthy approach to all property transactions. We have a strong team of highly experienced real estate professionals, committed to customer service and achieving great results. That’s why I’m proud to say, we’re the team to trust. Kevin Hicks

NUMURKAH • 1–3 MELVILLE ST PH: 03 5862 2611 KevinHicksRealEstate.com.au @kevinhicksrealestate @kevinhicksrealestate NumurkahLEADER, Wednesday, October 7, 2020 — 19 Local Sporting Legends

AllContinued om back page round“I’d played too defensively that day, them warm up, itchampion was absolutely pour- “When I turn up to play in a urs- so when I was in the GV playo a ing rain and Tiger Woods came out day comp, I’m not expecting too much month later, I reminded myself not and was hi ing ball a er ball in the Picturing the win ... of myself, I’m there to play because I to play that way, and that helped me pouring rain, and the consistency of Andrew ‘Strazz’ Stor- enjoy a game of golf, but when I turn w in.” his drive was incredible.” er has been crowned up to a club championship I expect to Strazz believes that a major reason Consistency is one thing that Strazz Numurkah Golf Club play well, because I’ve set myself up to he choked in that fateful pennant  nal believes makes the di erence between Champion 10 times. play in those events. was that he deviated from his own pre- a good golfer and an average one. “I think that competitiveness is part paratory routine. “Consistency plays a big part; the of what makes me one of the be er “It’s a very mental game - the mental di erence between your best shot and golfers around here; I’m determined preparation before you step on to the your worst shot of the day is a good to do well when it ma ers.” tee is what gets you across the line,” he way to judge how well you’ve played. Ultimately, though, Strazz says it’s said. If the di erence between those two not the other players he’s trying to do “Before a big day, I play 18 holes in isn’t much, then you’ve had a good well against. my head and visualise how I’m going day and played well. “Personally, I  nd it’s the intrinsic to play it. “You can have great shots, but if you motivation to beat yourself, you al- “It’s almost like a meditation; if I can have terrible shots as well that will ways compete against your own previ- sit down for 10 or 15 minutes and just drag you down, so I always try and ous personal best. at makes it hard have a bit of preparation and walk my keep that in the back of my head and when you’re playing match play, be- way through the 18 holes, then I think keep that gap fairly narrow.” cause you’re playing against the oth- that makes a big di erence. e importance of consistency is er person, but you’re playing against “I’m not hell bent on hi ing the per- something that Strazz has been re- yourself as well; you’re  ghting against fect shot, that’s not what it’s about, I’m minded of lately, with his son Hudson yourself to do well,” he said. focussed on ge ing it from A to B, and having recently taken up the game. “One thing I’ve always liked about I didn’t do that before that  nal.” “Personally I don’t  nd golf that dif- golf is the accountability of when e focus on how to get from A to  cult to play, but Hudson has started things go wrong, there’s nobody else B is another thing that Strazz believes to play because there’s no footy, and to blame, the only reason is you, or makes him a good golfer. trying to teach him to play I can see the way you’ve performed or the way “One thing I think a lot of amateur how di cult the game is when you’re you’ve gone about it.” golfers aren’t good at is course man- learning it. ough the individual aspect of golf agement, thinking their way through “He’s pre y talented too, because is one of its great drawcards for Strazz, the course on each shot. he’s good at tennis and squash so he’s he said one of his favourite gol ng ac- “A course that you know well, you’ve got the hand eye coordination, and he tivities is pennant. got a huge advantage because you hits some good shots at golf, but he “Pennant is the thing that gets me know whether you can carry that bun- hits some horrible shots too and that’s most excited with golf,” he said. ker or not and you have to use that the di erence between a good golfer “One of my proudest achievements advantage at all times, which is what and an average golfer - you don’t hit was being part of Numurkah’s pen- I do. those horrible shots. nant team that won three  ags in a row “A game of golf is like being at the ca- “When you’re learning, it’s a game to from 2015. sino; you have to play the percentages eliminate the bad shots.” “Golf is an individual sport, it’s a all the way through. At times you’ve Strazz can see himself as a young very sel sh game, and you don’t get got to take a risk, but it’s got to be a golfer in Hudson. much opportunity to play it as part of calculated risk to take a shot.” “He gets a bit upset sometimes when a team, so that was really rewarding. Strazz has won everything there is to it’s not going well, and I probably had you look at a match play situation, going to hit a fade or a draw or what- “Being part of that team with local win at GV level at least once, includ- few moments earlier on that I wasn’t which all golf ends up being anyway, ever, and I can play the shot exactly as people and local kids, well they’re not ing the Mooroopna Masters, the GV proud of, where I got a bit hot under you can only hit your ball. at’s the I want to play it, and that’s the mark kids now, but I remember them start- Championships, Champion of Cham- the collar, but it doesn’t help. You’ve only thing you can ever control. of a good player, and that comes with ing out as kids, was really special. pions, and , GV mixed with Jeane e just got to accept the good with the “ en, on the  ip-side, some days the time and the patience and the ded- “I’d like to think I’ve had a positive Nelson. bad and sometimes it just happens. you don’t play so well and you can still ication. in uence on younger players coming He has also represented the GV at “I think as time goes on and you get w in.” “I think all golfers are the same; you through and wanting to learn and get country week least half a dozen times, a li le bit older, you get be er at ac- Strazz draws some comfort from the have a vision and a plan of how you be er and do well. and feels privileged to have been able cepting that. at’s golf.” fact that that remains true no ma er want it to go, but it doesn’t always “Pennant is interesting too, because to do that on some of Victoria’s  nest Even now, Strazz says that he himself how good you are. work that way. you can win your match but the team golf courses. has some days where things just don’t “You look at golf, even at a world lev- “When it does work out that way, it’s loses, or you lose your match but the “I think, for a country golfer, it’s the go the way he’d like, for any number el, and nobody wins all the time be- pre y rewarding.” team wins, which is an odd feeling. highest level you can get to and I like of reasons. cause that’s impossible. Some days it Strazz is hopeful that there are more “In Numurkah, everyone is real- that as much as anything, because you “ ere are a million reasons things just doesn’t go your way, or someone rewarding days ahead for him. ly proud to represent the club and I get to play at those elite golf courses can go wrong in golf, and to get them just has a be er day. “I had a 65 at Numurkah about a think that’s missing from a lot of clubs like Royal Melbourne,” he said. all right is really di cult. I still have “Of course, when a professional golf- month ago, which is the best I’ve ever around here, and it’s something that “ ere’s something pre y special days where, by my own standards, I er has a terrible day, that’s a terrible scored there, and I’d like to think I’ve other clubs envy.” about being able to walk into a club play badly and I walk away thinking day by their standards, and 99.9% of got more wins coming if I put the time Although pennant has given Strazz house and see the club record with that’s it I’m done with it, but I always golfers in the world would be happy to and e ort in, I think I could win an- some of his proudest moments in golf, Greg Norman, or Jordan Spieth or come back. play that round. other 10 club championships.” it has also provided some of his most Geo Ogilvy’s name on it. “Sometimes you can be your own “ at’s the thing with golf, it’s all But when you’re juggling golf with confronting. “ ose prestigious golf clubs are a undoing; it’s a hard thing with golf, if relative, and there’s no such thing as a a full-time job and a family, time and “Last year we lost the pennant  nal di erent world to what we play on, the wheels are falling o so to speak, perfect day at golf. ere’s a di erence e ort are relative. to Shepp. It was purely my fault, and and I get a buzz out of playing on it’s hard to regroup. between playing well and scoring well. “I don’t practise much at all these that one actually really ra led me and them. I’ve never performed as well “I don’t know what brings me back, You can play not that well, but score upset me,” he said. as I’d like down there though, to be I suppose time heals, and those times well, and you can play well but not days. Leading into club champion- “I wasn’t in the best frame of mind honest, and I think that’s through when you lose give you a bit of mo- score well. ships I’ll play a few holes, but I’m not going in, and I got o to a bad start, not playing those types of courses as tivation to keep trying and get a bit “ ere was a guy on the PGA tour one to go to the driving range and hit but then I rallied and had some good much. b e  e r . ” who had 59 the other day, but he ball a er ball. holes and in the end it came down to “I think that’s why I’ve never done “I’ve had some pre y horrible mo- probably could have had three or four “I used to when I was  rst learning my match and I blew it. at was a that well at the Melbourne cours- ments on golf courses where I’ve less. No ma er how good a day you the fundamentals, but I don’t now. hard pill to swallow. es, because I don’t know them well lost things I should have won, but have, you can always have a few less.” “Hard work gets you a be er result, “In the moment, it’s tense, and there enough to do that. You’ll play a shot then I’ve won things I shouldn’t have “ at’s the intriguing thing about but golf is a time consuming game and were probably 100 people watching, you think is good, then you’ll get up as well. You can play brilliantly but sport - it’s the reality TV that’s actually when you’ve got other things going which doesn’t normally happen, and I there and it’s cactus.” someone can play just a li le bit be er real and you’re in it. on, to go and practise for an hour or butchered the shot. Having experienced the challenge of and beat you. “You don’t always know what the two at a time like I used to 15 years “Most golfers have done that, and if playing on those courses, Strazz said it “At a Goulburn Valley Champion- outcome’s going to be; you know what ago, it’s not going to happen. it had happened on the second hole I makes watching the pros play on them ship years ago in Cobram I’d had a you want it to be, but can you actually “I still feel I could be be er than I could have brushed it o , but it was that more exciting. good morning and hit 69 and another make it happen?” am know if I was willing to devote match play and I choked and stu ed “I enjoy going to see the pros play in fella, probably the best golfer in our Strazz said that, some days, he just the time and e ort to practising, but it up and I’d let my whole team down. Melbourne to see how and where they region, Terry Vogel, was in the  eld knows he can. I don’t know if the time and e ort is “I was upset at the way I played, be- hit balls on courses I’ve played on. I’ve and he’d hit 72 in the morning and I “One day one of the kids at Ma ra worth it now. cause I played it badly.” seen shots the pros have shot and thought I had him, but I hit 71 in the asked me what makes a really good “I enjoy my golf, but I enjoy other As upse ing as the incident was for thought ‘gee I ripped one down there a ernoon and he hit 64. player, and I remember saying to him stu as well. I don’t think I could play Strazz, he managed to make it a useful and he’s hit it 80 metres past where I “I couldn’t have done much more, that when you’re a good player in golf 52 weeks a year. When tennis experience. got to’. but he was too good, and that hap- form, you can tell where the ball’s go- season is approaching I really look “You have to take the positive out of “I remember being on the driving pens, that’s golf. ing to go before you hit it. forward to it, because I like having a it,” he said. range at Victoria Golf Club watching “ e tricky thing with golf is, when “I just have this intuition that I’m break from golf.” 20 — NumurkahLEADER, Wednesday, October 7, 2020 NumurkahLEADER

All round Champ WHEN a teenage Andrew ‘Strazz’ “I could never beat the top couple of Greg Norman video. moved to Gippsland. It was there that where you’ll chip it really well, but it’ll Storer got a Greg Norman instruc- players though,” he said. “I’m not sure why, but that was prob- he  nally gave football away, and com- be spraying o the tee everywhere. tional golf video set for Christmas one “I used to train a bit and I had les- ably the moment that hooked me on petitive golf really got its hooks into Ge ing it all together is the challeng- year, he couldn’t fathom why anyone sons from a guy in Yarrawonga who what golf was and how intricate it can him. ing part, and I enjoy it because it’s dif- would think he’d want that as gi . had his own squash court, but there be. “I used to have an hour for lunch  cult.” At that point, Strazz’s games were were a couple of blokes in Melbourne “From that point on, I played and got down there, and at  rst I didn’t really Di cult though it may be, Strazz has football, squash and tennis. I could never beat, they were just a bit the golf bug, and once you’ve got the know anybody, and I was only 15 min- managed to get enough of a handle on Strazz was part of the successful too good for me. golf bug you’re pre y well buggered, utes from home, so I’d go home and it to win the Numurkah club cham- Numurkah Blues premiership teams “I could see squash wasn’t going to because it’s such an addictive game.” hit golf balls for half an hour during pionship 10 times so far. He said the of 1999 and 2000, playing on the for- go anywhere as a career, so that side “For anybody who doesn’t know lunch.  rst, and the most recent of those vic- ward line, and has won club champi- of it  zzled out a bit, but it was always golf, it looks like such a simple game, “I used to just about have the ball on tories were the sweetest. onships at Numurkah golf, squash and the sport I enjoyed the most. I just en- but it’s not, there’s so much that can go a string at that stage - I knew exactly “ e  rst club championship I won, tennis clubs. joyed playing, week in, week out.” wrong with it. where it was going because I was prac- in 2006, was a good feeling, it was a bit “I don’t personally enjoy running or While Strazz enjoyed his football “I always say that if you’re playing tising so much.” like ge ing a monkey o my back. I’d riding or anything else like that, but as well, he said it wasn’t to the same well you want to keep playing because At that stage, Strazz was still playing come really close a few times at Maf- I’ll chase a ball around all day, as silly extent. you’re in form, but if you’re playing football, but that eventually came to fra, but there was one older guy who as that sounds,” he said. “I know a lot of people eat, sleep and badly you want to play because you an end. kept ge ing the be er of me, so to “I don’t know why that is, it just breathe footy, and although I enjoyed need to get back in form. “I was a playing coach with the sen-  nally be a club champion felt pre y is what it is. When I was a kid it was it, I never got over the top excited “ at’s the cycle every golfer plays, iors at Stratford, and I su ered a spiral good. footy in the winter, tennis in the sum- about it. I don’t know why. I was an and that’s why it’s so addictive.” fracture in the top of the tibia that was “ e current one was a good one to mer, and squash all year round. okay player, but not great, and I real-  ough in those early days he was pre y awkward, and I decided that win as well, because some of the up “Squash was my main sport; it was ise now how lucky I was to play in two o en the youngest player on the was enough, so I gave the football up.” and coming players, who I refer to very popular when Ken and Brenda premiership-winning teams.” course, Strazz never saw that as an im- Of course, that just le more time as kids but are in their mid 20s now, Alexander had the squash courts, a  ough he continued to play squash pediment to enjoying the game. for golf, and Strazz really started to ce- are becoming bloody good golfers, so lot of kids played, and it was very every week, Strazz began to dri more “I think golf’s a pre y rare sport in ment himself as a competitive player to be able to compete with them and competitive. I thrived on the com- towards tennis, where he started play- that, as a 20 year-old, which was about at Ma ra, coming within sni ng dis- beat them has been good.” petition and trying to be the best of ing division one tennis at around the when I started, you can play with 50, tance of the club championship on a As satisfying as laying claim to the the bunch.” age of 16. 60, 70 year-olds and still have a great number of occasions, and cementing title of club champion is, however, Strazz didn’t just try to be the best of  ough he says they had some day. I’ve always enjoyed the compa- himself as part of the pennant team. Strazz keeps it in perspective. the bunch, he succeeded. good teams, they never quite won a ny of older people for some reason, I “ ere were a lot of good golfers “No disrespect to the other players As a junior, he was a member of sev- premiership. don’t really know why, but I get along down there, and that really inspired at the club, but to win the club cham- eral squash teams that won state titles It was around this time that he got really well with them.” me to try and become a be er golfer.” pionship you only have to beat the through School Sports Victoria, the his  rst introduction to golf. Strazz said one of his favourite parts Still, as any golfer can tell you, and other players at your club. signi cance of which he said was lost “Mum was a really keen golfer and I of sport is the people he has met. as Strazz is at pains to point out, golf is “You go to the next level, and there on him at the time. went with her a couple of times when “ e di erent people and di erent a capricious mistress, but that’s one of are 100 players be er than me, and “We had a really good bunch of I was around 17/18 and had a hit. I characters, and once you start ge ing the things he likes about it. at the level above that, there are 100 mates that made up some good teams guess I’ve always had good hand eye into the representative stu , peo- “ e tricky thing about golf is that players be er than them.  ere are there, but we probably didn’t realise at coordination and that’s transferred to ple that you compete against, even there are so many components to it. much be er players than me out the time how big it was to win a state golf I suppose, and I could do it be er though you really want to beat them, People who don’t play the game don’t there.” title; we were just kids that liked to than mum, and thought ‘this game’s you  nd that most of them are really understand,” he said. Still, when he’s playing for the title play sport and got a day o school to not too bad’, but I still didn’t get that nice people, and I’ve found that with “You can have days when you’re just of club champion, or as part of the go and play,” he said. into it.” golf in particular.” ripping it o the tee and it’s  ying pennant team, Strazz takes it serious- Individually, he got to about third  e gap between ‘not too bad’ and Strazz had been playing golf locally across the fairway, but that’s the day ly, maintaining high expectations of or fourth in the Victorian rankings in positively addicted, was  lled when for a few years, and he was still play- your pu er will dessert you and you’ll himself. under 15s. he  nally got around to watching that ing footy tennis and squash, when he keep missing pu s. You’ll have days Continued page 19