2019-03 March

Girgarre Gazette March 2019 Page 1

Girgarre Gazette March 2019 Page 2
COORDINATOR’S CATCH UP
Hello everyone, I hope this finds you all
healthy and happy. We are truly back
into the full swing of things here. You
know what they say, no rest for the wicked.
All of our programs: Patchers & Quilters, Playgroup,
Line Dancing, Bowlers, Ukes, Seniors are
well underway. The Green Thumbs Nursery is doing
a roaring trade and Loraine and her team are
in full planning mode for this year’s Open Garden
Festival. Carol is extremely busy putting the finishing
touches to the Weird and Wonderful Veggie
competition, which will take place at April’s
market. Our car is taking bookings in record numbers
putting our drivers under the pump…so do
not forget, if you can assist as a volunteer driver,
please contact me.
We have some new volunteers on board
this year, which is fantastic, and our trusty faithfuls
are all working very hard to keep The Cottage
running smoothly for our community…well done
team. As you can see by every edition the Gazette
does a great job keeping the community informed
of events and local news. I continue to
work on grant applications for local groups and
causes, as well as organising this year’s Mother’s
Day Classic, fundraising activities, events and
attending too many conferences and meetings. If
you are interested in a town garage sale or book
club please drop in and see me or pick up the
phone, I would love to hear from you. We are
already thinking of May: Mother’s day stall,
Biggest Morning Tea, Volunteers week,
our sponsor’s day and as I have previously
mentioned our second Mother’s Day Classic.
Finally, a big thank you to our Committee of
Management who continue to put in the hours to
ensure the Cottage remains a vibrant and viable
centre for Girgarre. Take care and hopefully we
will see you at The Cottage soon. Bye for now.
Kezia
MOTHERS DAY CLASSIC
SUNDAY 12 MAY 12T2019
The Mother’s Day Classic is a nation-wide community based event that raises
funds for breast cancer research. No matter how large or small the venue, we
all come together on Mother’s Day to remember, celebrate and honour those
touched by breast cancer.
The Girgarre event is in its second year & offers participants a 4km walk and run!
Can’t join us on the day, don’t worry, while you may not be able to join us in body, you can still join us in spirit by
registering as a ‘Support us in Spirit’ participant! Follow this link to read more, or make a donation towards breast
cancer research.
VENUE — Railway Reserve Station Street, Girgarre.
WHEN— Sunday 12 May 2019.
DISTANCES— 4km walk and 4km run.
THE COURSE The circuit is 4km, consisting of well compacted crushed rock. Signage will be placed around circuit,
with volunteers directing the way. Volunteers are ladies from our local netball club.
THE TIME LINE—7.45am welcome and warm-up, for an 8am start, register on-line, on the day or at The Cottage
before the event. All enquiries contact Kezia or Kara at The Cottage. 5854 6482.
Front cover: Cover design by HiViz Event Management and Promotions

Girgarre Gazette March 2019 Page 3
The Girgarre Market is forefront in the resurgence of
our community. Held on the second Sunday each month the
market has put Girgarre well and truly on the map. It is not
just a great place to buy a wonderful range of fresh products
fresh tender pork, homemade delicious cakes biscuits and
slices, jams, cheeses, fruit and vegetables, it also has a wonderful
array of, crafts and now tools and clothing, the funds
raised delivers great benefits to our local community groups.
The Development Group which organise and run the
Market and who, with a wonderful volunteer group set up,
administer the market as well as the Jigarre Juice stall has
used profits from the Market to undertake huge improvements
to our muchloved Memorial Hall and Supper Room
making these premises highly sort after venues for our community.
Our updated hall was used over 250 times last year –
quite remarkable. It has also updated our park to the lovely
spot it is today, helped establish the walking track as well as
contributing significant funds to the RAV grant that was instrumental
in the building of our beautiful sound shell and
amphitheatre.
In establishing the Market, the Development Group
invited organisations within Girgarre to be its partners.
These are -
The Girgarre Community Cottage
Craft Market and Community Car. In May 2005 in response to
requests from interested site holders the Development group
added a craft component to compliment the 2-month-old
Farmers Market. Although the Craft Market is part of the
Girgarre Market this section has been administered from the
outset by CommunityCottage volunteers with proceeds
providing an income stream essential to maintain the fund
that replaces our highly valued community car. The community
car is used predominately for transporting Girgarre people
who need assistance with affordable and convenient
transport to keep their medical appointments locally, regionally
and in Melbourne. Funds raised by Green Thumbs
Nursery volunteers at their regular market site also support
the community car by contributing to the day to day running
costs. The community car and the service provided by our
dedicated volunteer drivers are essential and highly valued
by the clientele for the quality of the service. Just having a
community car in town is reassuring because it enhances the
quality of life for residents by allowing them to live in a
community where public transport is limited, inflexible and
usually inappropriate to meet to their needs.
Girgarre CFA
The CFA man the BBQ at the market where they cook
delicious egg and bacon rolls. Finances have allowed exciting
new projects such as the upgrade to the CFA kitchen, assisted
with the purchase of a new forward control vehicle, as well
as providing new helmet torches for the fire fighters. Equipment
for the truck casual uniforms for members and finance
challenges that boost morale and build team work. They have
also built a catering trailer that is used for other fund raising
events and also to assist other community groups.
Girgarre Recreation Reserve
Approximately 13 years ago the Recreation Reserve started
the Girgarre Market Chook Auction as a vehicle to raise the
muchneeded funds to maintain and improve the sporting
precinct at Girgarre – this has included assistance to user
groups with fund raising for the multi-purpose netball courts,
the refurbishment of change rooms, the 3-bay storage shed
and some necessary equipment.
Perhaps the best thing about our market is that it has
provided for our community a wonderful place to gather
once a month and spend some quality time enjoying one
another’s company. There are a huge variety of stalls accompanied
by live music and great coffee. By supporting the market,
we are able to continue to drive amazing transformations
in our small town.
Hope to see you at our next market .

Girgarre Gazette March 2019 Page 4
ANGER AT GOVERNMENT PROPOSAL
Words cannot convey the dismay, and anger, I felt when I
learned of the Andrews Government’s move to direct the
most profitable component of state owned organisations
funds into a centralised banking system.
The State Government directive that all State managed
schools, health organisations and local councils transfer all
excess funds held at other banking institutions to Westpac
Banking Corporation is a massive blow to our Rushworth and
District Community Bank.
This impacts directly on the Bank’s ability to support
our communities by diminishing our profitability. Profits that
are fed back into the local community.
Even more frustrating is that the bank stipulated,
Westpac, doesn’t even have a presence in our community, or
employ local staff or distribute profits back to local community
projects.
This policy disempowers and is damaging to regional
communities like ours. We work alongside our townships and
local Shire to financially support and maintain schools,
GREEN THUMBS NURSERY
Supporting your community car
Supporting your community car
Hello again. Our volunteers and plants appreciate the shortening
days and cooler nights as summer draws towards it’s
close. Hopefully some of you have had success with your
pumpkins and other vegetables despite the extremely difficult
season it has been. We look forward to seeing the results
in the Weird & Wonderful Veggie Competition & Display at
the April market. Don’t forget the non competitive display
section is open to everyone providing an opportunity to
showcase the success (& disappointments) of your efforts.
Propagating of green tip cuttings is in full swing and will continue
for several weeks while survival prospects remain high.
Once it becomes too cold for them we’ll try propagating
wood cuttings. Although these are slower to strike and percentages
generally lower they sometimes prove most rewarding.
It’s worth a visit to our nursery just to browse and our
customers frequently find exactly what they are looking for.
Currently yellow chrysanthemums are available at the give
away price of 50 cents. They require little attention, will flower
this year and continue to please in future seasons. After
the long weekend we will revert to normal nursery opening
hours Mondays and Wednesdays 10am-1pm.
Should I prepare for rain? Maybe even floods!!! I’ve
been invaded by pesky little brown ants entering & exiting my
kitchen cupboards at ceiling level. According to the bee keeping
man, “the ants are building in the roof preparing for
heavy rain they think is on the way”. As neither the bee keeper
nor the ants are sure exactly when this event will occur I’m
not moving every thing to the top shelf just yet.
hospital and recreational facilities. Our sponsorship programs
and investment strategies support organisations and services
that are often sparsely funded by other means, to the
detriment of educational and care outcomes.
We’ve provided shade sails, laptops and tablets,
educational programs, play structures, a medical centre and
tertiary scholarships for our local students who attended
state schools in our district. We sponsor local Kinders and
sporting groups, improving grounds and buildings that are
Shire owned to support our community. Since it’s inception
16 years ago, over $950,000 from the Rushworth Community
Bank has gone back into district communities, over $50,000 of
that directly to Girgarre related organisations.
Daniel Andrews is claiming that he is putting people
first. But putting all our State Government banking into Sydney
isn’t putting our communities first. This decision must be
reversed. I would encourage everyone to object in the
strongest terms to your local member.
Christine Borger (Chair).
Carol’s Garden Notes
Weird & Wonderful Vegetable Competition & Display
April Market Sunday 14 th
Entries between 8am and 9am on the day at site adjacent to
Green Thumbs Nursery in the car park next to The Memorial
Hall.
More information on Girgarre Green Thumbs Nursery face
book page.
Section 1. Unexpected, not quite right or deformed
(encouragement prizes for entries in this section)
Section 2. Biggest Pumpkin (Girgarre/Stanhope)
Section 3. Basket/box/selection fresh picked veggies
Girgarre Stanhope)
Ugliest or most unusual vegetable (Girgarre Stan-
Section 4.
hope)
Section 5.
Section 6.
Stanhope)
Most colourful vegetable (Girgarre/Stanhope)
Pre-school & primary school categories (Girgarre/
Non Competitive Display Only Section - open to everyone. If
you are unsure which category to enter you will receive assistance
when you register your veggies. Carol O

Girgarre Gazette March 2019 Page 5
Dulcie Campbell Williams - (1919 - 2018)
Born under the careful watch of
Nurse Millard at Lynwood Private
Hospital, 298 Allan Street, on July
25 th 1919, Dulcie was the second
child of Wattie and Ett Williams.
Wattie and Ett had decided to move
from Picola to set up a new general
store in the newly gazetted town of
Girgarre to cater for the influx of Soldier Settlers to the
district.
There were no dwellings in the township when the
Williams arrived, the only buildings nearby were those at the
railway station, the line from Rushworth had opened in 1917.
Their first home was a very basic galvanised iron building
which served as both residence and store. This humble
abode behind the store was home for the Williams family for
the early years of Dulcie’s life. After a few years the galvanised
iron store was replaced by a weatherboard structure,
which had been delivered by rail in two sections.
At about this time the family moved to a house almost
directly opposite the school on a twenty acre property that
Wattie had purchased. Her younger sister Heather was born
in 1921. One of Dulcie’s earliest memories was of walking to
and from the store to the school with her older sister Jean
across “the common”, which was covered in native bluebells
at certain times of the year. This vivid memory remained
with her for the rest of her life.
In 1926 the family decided on a change of direction
and purchased a farm in what is now Wigg Road, perhaps
influenced by Ett’s farming background. She had grown up on
a mixed farm and hotel at Kotupna, between Kyabram and
Nathalia. It was at about this time that Dulcie commenced
her education at the Girgarre State School, often walking to
school with her neighbour Clare White, and
towards the finish of her schooling Clare’s younger sister
Gladys. She was a bright student who enjoyed school and
completed her Merit Certificate (Grade 8).
One of Dulcie’s favourite activities during her school
years was attending the Brownie and Girl Guide groups.
There were two Guide Patrols, the Blue Wrens and the Red
Robins, Dulcie was patrol leader of the Red Robins. The
Williams’ neighbour Mrs Marshall was her Captain. Further
education opportunities for girls was very limited at that
time, and of course the world was about to enter the Great
Depression. Limited also was the opportunity for employment
and like so many young ladies of her era she helped out
in the house and around the farm.
In her late teens she began courting local lad, Maurice
McDonald, who was five years her senior. So began one of
life’s great partnerships. In many ways it was an attraction of
opposites, Dulcie was outgoing and gregarious, Maurice was
reserved and quiet. He was a talented sportsman, football in
the winter and cricket over summer with the local Girgarre
teams. Dulcie played tennis over summer, so Maurice turned
his hand to tennis when he and Dulcie started seeing each
other, in order to spend more time with her.
They married in 1940 and lived with Maurice’s parents, Jack
and Annie, on the McDonald family farm, The Oaks, just over
a mile east of the Girgarre town-ship. Maurice was working
on the farm along with his father and older brother Gordon
when their first child Jill was born later in 1940.
After the second world war, Maurice and Dulcie purchased
Holmwood, a mixed farm of about 100 acres on what is now
Mason Road. During their time at Holmwood three sons were
born, Ian, Athol and Ross. Life was full for Maurice and Dulcie
during their time there, thirty cows to be milked by hand,
fencing to be erected with posts cut from timber on the
property and pigs to be fed. The dwelling was small and
basic, no hot water in the house and a young family to be
cared for.
In 1955 Dulcie's parents retired to Frankston and
Dulcie and Maurice sold Holmwood and relocated around the
corner to manage the Williams farm, Stonfield Park. For Dulcie,
it was a return to the home that she had grown up in.
The farm became the epicentre of two and half decades of
happy, family orientated life.
The family expanded as her off-spring married and
produced families of their own. She was a born organiser and
she enjoyed being involved in her local community, involved
with the Country Women’s Association early in life and in
1939 was elected Treasurer when a CWA Younger Set was
formed in Girgarre. The CWA was an important part of social
life for many rural women and Dulcie played a very active
role in local branch activities, holding most executive positions
and during the 1970s was also Goulburn Valley West
Group President. She was rewarded with a Life Membership
of the Country Women’s Association.
Dulcie was also something of a thespian and the CWA
Drama Festivals provided an outlet for this talent, she often
teamed with her great friend Vera Woolmer and others to
perform in these events. All of her grandchildren will attest
to the fact that she didn’t need much encouragement to
dress up and have a bit of fun. Lawn bowls was an activity
enjoyed by both Maurice and Dulcie in their later years,
firstly at the Stanhope club, and later in Kyabram when they
retired there in 1979. Dulcie served a term as President of
the Kyabram Lady Bowlers and was also elected to the same
office with the Goulburn Valley District Lady Bowlers
Association.
Dulcie’s funeral and memorial service were held in
Girgarre on January 31 st 2019 She often said, “I was carried
into Girgarre and when the day comes I wish to be carried
out of Girgarre”. Dulcie enjoyed retirement in Kyabram
immensely, after having moved there with Maurice in 1979.
She made many wonderful friendships and successfully
immersed herself in daily life in the town.
However, until her dying day she maintained a great
love of Girgarre and everyone who lived there. It is fitting
that her final farewell was held in the Girgarre Memorial
Hall. As a toddler she would have watched from the general
store just across the road as the settlers arrived each morning
to make cement bricks for its construction. She spent
many hundreds of happy hours under its roof. The
foundation stone, still visible on the front of the hall, was laid
by her father, W. A. Williams, in 1921.

Girgarre Gazette March 2019 Page 6
COMING EVENTS
GARAGE SALE
Expression of interest
are sought from residents
interested in running a Garage Sale
again this year.
Please contact the Cottage for
more details or if you would like to
take part.
The Cottage 5854 6482
Chris Newman
Chris Newman
STANHOPE SHOW AND SHINE
8 - 10 March 2019
67- 69 Midland Hwy Stanhope
A family friendly event
supporting the local community .
CARS, TRUCKS, UTES AND BIKES
Be there Friday 8th to hear the fabulous
Mason Boys entertain.
Food. Children’s entertainment
E: Stanhopeshowandshine@gmail.com
WHITE TRUCK MUSTER
& Vintage Machinery Rally
16 - 17 March 2019
Kyabram Showgrounds
Old and new White’s, Diamond T’s and
Rio trucks to see, as well as other brand
trucks, along with displays of Australia’s
mechanical past including vintage
engines, blacksmithing, sheep shearing,
working machinery displays, vintage
tractors, stream and working meccano
displays as well as other hobby displays.
On site catering available. $5 entry fee
per adult and children under 16 free.
Enquiries phone Barb 0439 448 444
or Ray 0407 311 007

Girgarre Gazette March 2019 Page 7
March Gazette
Naomi Kelly who as many of you know, has been a
past volunteer editor of the Gazette will
compile the Gazette for March while I am absent.
Please have your notices, photos and other items of
interest in by the 20th of the month as usual. Thank
you - IreneL
STANHOPE LIONS
50th Anniversary
The Stanhope Lions Club
wish to contact any former members and Lions’ Ladies
for their 50th anniversary celebration on
25 May 2019
to be held at the Stanhope Bowls Club
for an evening meal and
celebration of 50 years of Lions.
Quote of the month: “I just love Jigarre Jammin’ so much“.
Leo Loque from Sunshine Vic. Travels from Sunshine each
month to take part. One of the 60 happy musicians at
February’s Jigarre Jammin’.
April 26th – 28th Camp - Program Planned
Join us for a general Jam Friday night in the Supper
Room. Graeme Leak, composer of the masterful
Junkestra piece ’Spirit Rising’ along with Patrick Cronin,
who produced the show for the grand opening of the
Soundshell will run a Saturday morning workshop on
the 27th, followed by the usual afternoon program.
Saturday evening there will be a concert in The Hall and
Sunday morning, the 28th, the old time gospel singalong
in the Church at 9.30am will take place. Everyone
welcome. More detail next month.
Contact Avis Weller on (03) 5854 6383
Mob 0490 438 386 or
Allan McGrath on (03)5825 3542
Mob 0409 005388
Mail to
Stanhope Lions P O Box 105 Stanhope 3623.
RAIL TRAILS - Annual Meeting Coming Up
All are welcome to come along to the Girgarre
Supper Room on Monday 18 March at 7.30 pm for the
Annual General Meeting of the Girgarre/Stanhope Rail
Trail Group. Come and hear how the plans for the next
section of the Girgarre to Stanhope Rail Trail are coming
along. Currently the Rail Trail runs to Mason Road, next
step is the section from Mason to Morrissey Rd. The
proposed Rail Trail development is a collaborative effort
between the local RT Group and the Girgarre/Stanhope
Landcare Group.
Contact: Sandra McDonald 5854 6324
Of the states, Victoria has
the most developed rail
trails. Left, a section of the
O’Keefe rail trail, Junortoun
to Axedale near Lake
Eppalock. It’s very popular
with bike enthusiasts,
walkers and dogs with
their handlers.
https://www.railtrails.org.au/
trail-descriptions/victoria

Girgarre Gazette March 2019 Page 8
KYABRAM TOWN HALL GALLERY
MARCH 2019
OPEN Mon-Sat 10am-4pm
Felicity Johnson
www.kyabramtownhall.com.au
03 5852 1546 0490371641
Wild Exposure Photography
end March 30
Invites all under 10,12 and 14 prospective players and
their families to our 2019 Season Launch.
SUNDAY 17 March
Girgarre Football Oval
10.30 start
Training session with former
North Melbourne Football Club Stars
Splinter Contemporary Artists:
A SURVEY FEB 5-APRIL 30
ARTISTS look closely, they examine and then they
communicate what they have discovered.
EXHIBITING IN MARCH THE HOMECOMING A special
exhibition telling the stories of the WW1 Women who served their
country. Many didn’t return those that did faced a very different
life. The exhibition tells their stories and displays their
clothes and memorabilia. info@kyabramtownhall.com.au
Daniel Harris & Brent Harvey
Stay after training for a BBQ, Player Registration
and Info Session. Club Merchandise on display &
available to order thanks to Quality Teams.
Eftos available on the day.
WORDS ON WHEELS
in the Cottage Utility room
6pm
Everyone welcome to join in for an evening of
stimulating discussions on topical subjects.
Contact: Carol Ohlin Ph: 5854 6371
J & J OUTREACH COUNSELLING SERVICE
Contact:
Julianne 0455 026 568
Jenni 0447 734 775
jjoutreachcounselling@gmail.com

Girgarre Gazette March 2019 Page 9
WHO WE ARE
THE FOUR PILLARS OF GIRGARRE
The Girgarre
Development Group
Celebrating the Achievements
of our town.
Building a Sustainable and
Vibrant Community.
Education
The Girgarre Primary School
Preparing a Path to the Future
The Girgarre Community Kindergarten
We aim to achieve an environment where everyone belongs,
feels welcomed, valued and respected, while providing
learning opportunities for children
through exploration and play.
Sport
The Girgarre Recreation Reserve
The Girgarre Football Netball Club
The Girgarre Tennis Club
The Girgarre Cricket Club
The Community Cottage
The Community Centre exists to help,
support and encourage people of this rural
area to enrich their lives by developing
friendships and new learning skills.
Our active and vibrant community, working together
CONTACT THE COTTAGE
Girgarre Community Group Inc.
(The Cottage)
A1601 ABN: 66 944 230 131.
27 Olympic St. (P.O. Box 35), Girgarre, 3624
Phone: (03) 5854 6482 Fax: (03) 5854 6484
http://girgarre.com.au/girgarre-community-cottage
E-mail: girgarrenh@bigpond.com
Coordinator: Kezia Talbot
Connect with us on Facebook. Girgarre Community Cottage
www.girgarre.com.au
The Girgarre Gazette
Do you have something you would like us to share?
Deadline for publication is the 20th of the month
Email: girgarregazette@yahoo.com.au
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The Girgarre Gazette is published and distributed electronically
and in print. Distribution is to over 400 people via the
Girgarre Post Office and it is available at Rob Varcoe’s shop,
228 Allan St Kyabram, Nanneella Store, in Rushworth, Corop,
Stanhope and is published on the Girgarre Website.
wwwgirgarre.com.au
The Gazette is produced for the benefit of the community by
the Girgarre Community Group Inc. (The Cottage).
Join our email list! Drop us a line and we will add you to
our distribution list.
EMAIL: girgarregazette@yahoo.com.au
Advertising
Advertising space is available. Contact the Cottage or the
Gazette for details.
Gazette is designed by
HiViz Event Management & Promotions.
www.hivizevents.com.au
The items published and the views expressed are those of the
contributors, and not necessarily those of the Editor or the publisher of the
Gazette
Girgarre Gazette Editor: Irene Labbett.
Ph: 5852 1995 M: 0429 149 246
girgarregazette@yahoo.com.au

Girgarre Gazette March 2019 Page 10
REGULAR MEETINGS & EVENTS
Tongala & District Memorial
Aged Care Service Inc.
Serving the Community since 1925
• R.M McHale Hostel, Koraleigh Nursing
Home for planned & emergency respite care
& permanent residential aged care
• Deakin Village – retirement rental units
• Memorial Drive Retirement Village
For further information contact:
Sarah Tee, 18 Purdey St, Tongala Vic. 3621
Phone: 03 5859 800
Email: admin@tongalaagedcare.com.au
“Care in a Friendly Town”

Girgarre Gazette March 2019 Page 11
LOCAL GROUPS
Group Name Details Contact Name Phone Number
The Girgarre Community Group Inc. President Duncan Rodrick 0427 391 706
The Girgarre Community Cottage Coordinator Kezia Talbot 5854 6482
Girgarre Green thumbs Nursery Nursery Sales Carol/Loraine W Carol 5854 6371
Girgarre Open Garden Committee Open Garden Festival Loraine Warde 5854 6236/0438 546 237
Girgarre Playgroup 0-5 yrs. Mondays 10am-12 Sharon Pell 5854 6482
Jigarre Ukulele (J-Ukes) 1st & 3rd Wed (& 5th) 1:30pm Lyn Cosham 58590297
Girgarre Patchwork Quilters Quilters and Sewing Group Nola Marke 5854 8226
Girgarre Line Dancers Thursdays 1pm Gloria Atkins 0400 539 778
Carpet Bowls
Thursdays 7pm, Girgarre Hall.
From April - August
Theo George
Rob Varcoe
0428 740 976
0409 975 997
Girgarre Community Kindergarten Lead Educator Robyn Swan 5854 6368
Girgarre Primary School Principal Peter Caldow 5854 6275
Girgarre Returned Services League President Laurie Young 5854 6303
Girgarre CFA Captain Maree Gadzinski 5854 6264
Stanhope/Girgarre Lions Club President Avis Weller 5854 6383
Girgarre Christian Church Christian Church Ron Gregory 5854 6382
Stanhope and District Men’s Shed Have fun and create Des Crichton 0457 300 321
Girgarre Memorial Hall Committee Memorial Hall Sandra McDonald 5854 6324
Girgarre Development Group (GDG) Girgarre Improvements Jan Smith 5854 6283
Gargarro Project Gargarro Botanic Gardens Athol McDonald 5854 6324
Friends of the Garden Chairperson Bernie Ryan 5857 2407
Girgarre Craft Market Bookings/Enquiries Carol Ohlin 5854 6371
Girgarre Farmers Market Bookings / Enquiries Jan Smith 5854 6283
Jigarre Jammers Acoustic Music Irene Labbett 0429 149 246
Girgarre Living History
Book titled “Girgarre”
Athol McDonald
5854 6324
Record of local history
Jenny Wadelton
5852 2301
Girgarre Recreational Reserve President Darren Butler 0427 546 332
Girgarre Football /Netball Club President Brendon Nicholson 0413 022 398
Girgarre Cricket Club President Mick Coyne 0488 296 566
Girgarre Tennis Club
President
Duncan Rodrick
0427 391 706
Secretary
Fiona Smith
0408 502 274

Girgarre Gazette March 2019 Page 12
CLASSIFIEDS & SERVICES
Mechanical Repairs and Servicing
General Engineering
Licensed VicRoads Tester # 11233 LV HV LP
Russell Wheelhouse
Livestock Transport Girgarre
For all of your livestock transport needs
Mobile: 0430 432 687
Ph: 5854 6370

Girgarre Gazette March 2019 Page 13
BOOK CLUB AT THE COTTAGE
The Cottage Coordinator, Kezia, is still seeking book enthusiasts to take part in a local book club. If you’re interested contact
Kezia at the Cottage, 27 Olympic St or phone 5854 6482 during office hours to sign in. The Campaspe Library has many
sets of books in many genres free for Clubs to use. All you have to do is sign up for a free membership card of the Library.
Contact the Cottage if you’re interested. Ph: 58546482

Girgarre Gazette March 2019 Page 14
COTTAGE SERVICES AND LOCAL CLASSIFIEDS
COTTAGE HOURS. The Cottage is
open 10am to 3pm, Monday to
Thursday at 27 Olympic Street,
Girgarre. Coordinator: Kezia
Talbot. Telephone: 5854 6482
for services listed below.
COTTAGE SERVICES.
FOOD BANK. Food parcel available for
those in need. Confidentiality ensured.
Available Monday to Thursday 10am to
3pm.
COMMUNITY CAR. Information and
criteria for bookings. Contact The
Cottage.
SENIOR'S GROUP. Meet weekly for outings
or social events. Meet Tuesdays
10am at the Cottage.
UTILITIES ROOM FOR HIRE. Need a
space to hold a meeting, do some training,
hold an event or activity? The Cottage
has a room for hire including tea &
coffee.
ITEMS TO HIRE Specialty items
including shower chairs, walkers, porta
cots, child's car seat, wheel chair, baby
bath, high chair, walking sticks.
VOLUNTEERS WANTED. Teach a class,
join the committee or help out at the
nursery.
FREE PLAYGROUP Mondays 10am to
12pm. Held at the Girgarre Kindergarten.
BOOK SWAP Leave a book and take
one. Free Service at the Cottage.
DONATE CLEAN DENIM Ros makes it
into quilts. Stains don't matter.
DONATE ITEMS TO HELP OTHERS Spectacles
, mobile phones, routers, bras,
baby items, mastectomy items, cotton
clothing suitable for Fijian climate
www.upliftbras.org
GIRGARRE (CAMPASPE) REGIONAL
LIBRARY Borrow a book, DVDs, talking
books - thousands of titles can be ordered
online at
www.campaspe.vic.gov.au/library
and delivered to The Cottage
PRESCRIPTION SERVICE Leave your
scripts for collection and return. Free
service at the Cottage
LOCAL CLASSIFIEDS
GIRGARRE PRE-SCHOOL
Enrolments welcome anytime
www.kyabramkindergaten.com.au or
phone 0428 738 147
GIRGARRE HALL FOR HIRE Available for
your next event. Phone Sandy Fletcher
at the Girgarre Post office T: 5854 6200
STANHOPE MEN'S SHED Open Mon,
Wed & Fri, 9am to Noon. Tea & coffee,
chat, computers, wood and metal
lathes. Phone Des 0457 300 321
WORDS ON WHEELS Everyone welcome.
Stimulating discussions on topical
subjects. Third Tuesdays 6pm.Phone
Carol Ohlin 5854 6371
OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK LUNCH AND DINNER
MONDAY – FRIDAY $10.00 LUNCHES AVAILABLE
Come in, relax and enjoy our fabulous modern facilities
82 ALLAN STREET KYABRAM Ph: 5852 2431
www.kyabramclub.com.au
office@kyabramclub.com.au
QUALITY BISTRO DINING, SUN SHADED PLAYGROUND,
FOXTEL, LIVE ENTERTAINMENT, OFF STREET PARKING,
SPORTS BAR, LANDSCAPED COURTYARD WITH
BARBEQUE FACILITIES, CONFERENCE ROOMS, TAB,
KENO AND EFTPOS FACILITIES.

Girgarre Gazette March 2019 Page 15
Development Group General Meeting - Tuesday 26 February 2019
The vision: To build a sustainable vibrant community and create
opportunities to celebrate the achievements of the town
ACM Report - Milk is Flowing
John Hommes reported that ACM are processing
100,000 litres of milk a day. At present 1 – 1 .5 shifts are
turning this milk into cream and powder. The butter
production will commence as soon as the butter packaging
machine is operational. John also reported that landscaping
of the site has commenced. The company was delighted to
report that the new factory has been built to budget.
Resource Resolutions - Negotiations Continue
Ian Bertram reported that he is in ongoing
negotiations with partners for the bio digester project with
an outcome expected in 2- 3 weeks. Ian also reported that
talks re glass recycling at the plant are ongoing as well.
Small Halls Festival - Returning in 2019
April 5 – Tickets available online or at The Cottage.
See Page 17.
Girgarre Produce and Craft Market - Impending Review
Although the February market started slowly early in
the morning, numbers picked up later. Many enjoyed a delicious
egg and bacon roll breakfast from the CFA stall.
The market Group is to undertake a review of the
running of the market. This review will consider the
management, the name, the promotion and branding.
Graeme Leak – Dates
Graeme will make a flying trip to Girgarre while he is
on holidays with his partner in March to plan for the
installation of Piano Piano and the Chinese Bells.
It will be an extremely busy time when Graeme
returns in April. A time table has been prepared for both
performances, in Nathalia and in Melbourne with rehearsals
already penciled in. Patrick Cronin, the Producer of the
Soundshell opening show last April will also be returning and
will be here for the Nathalia performance. Graeme will also
do a workshop at the Jigarre Jamming camp over on the 26 -
28 April.
RSL - Kitchen Installation
Rob Axen reported that the kitchen has been
purchased and that installation will commence next weekend.
Gargarro Botanical Garden - Application for Funding Lodged
Doc McDonald reported that the application for funding
of the detailed design of stage one of the garden had
been lodged and outcomes are expected shortly. Doc also
reported that the design of the nursery and hub café has
also commenced. - the Development Group elected to pay
for this design work.
Friends of the Gardens – Replanting Grass
Bernie Ryan reported on a working bee to replant
parts of the amphitheatre with a hardier species of grass.
Bernie thanked all who participate in what turned out to be a
massive effort. Bernie also reported that further working
bees will mulch around the avenue trees.
Recreation Reserve - Farmer’s Social Evening Coming Up
Greg Fitzpatrick reported that the resurfacing of the
tennis courts had gone to tender and that another Farmers
Social Night would be held on March 12th at the Rec Reserve.
See page 5.
CFA - All Quiet on the Fire Front
Richard Ashe reported that all was quiet on the fire
front and that a training night would be held on the 14th
March.
Parks and Gardens
John Warde reported that a new tap was being installed
in the park to try and speed up watering times.
Tennis Report
Duncan Rodrick reported that the tennis
season was coming to an end and that all players had had an
enjoyable season
Diversified Growers Group
Duncan reported that the next Growers Group
meeting is on April 6th.
Girgarre Community group Inc.—The Cottage
Duncan reminded all that food parcels were available
from the Cottage if required.
Action on Town Boundary Speed Restriction Required
It was brought to Development Group’s attention that
the corner of Curr Road & Station Street could be dangerous
because of the close proximity of the speed restrictions back
to 80Kph. A letter to the Shire of Campaspe requesting the
boundary of speed restrictions be moved further away from
the turn to give traffic more time when making the right hand
turn was discussed. Jan Smith (President)

Girgarre Gazette March 2019 Page 16
KOORI FAMILY HISTORY
OUR PURPOSE—Knowing who you are and where you come from
is an essential part of identity and pride for Koorie people. Koorie
people have been dispossessed of this knowledge through the
policies and practices of past governments, including the taking
away of children from family and Community. The main purpose of
our Koorie Family History Service is to provide members of the
Stolen Generations and their descendants with knowledge of their
family tree, family history, culture and Community. We view our
role as an important part of building pride and creating a sense of
wellbeing in the Koorie Community.
For information regarding our Koorie Family History Service and
the application process, please telephone 03 8662 6329 and ask
for the Koorie Family History Service or email
familyhistory@koorieheritagetrust.com.
All information that you provide will be treated in the strictest
confidence.
OUR CLIENTS—The Stolen Generations members of their family
and their descendants. People separated from their Koorie family
through family breakdown or adoption
Koories in custody Koorie Community
However: - We can only provide you with a family tree if you meet
the criteria and complete our application process.We are unable
to take you on as a client if you are under 18. We are not authorised
to provide confirmation of Aboriginality. Information about
the criteria and process involved can be found on the AIATSIS website.
http://koorieheritagetrust.com.au/koorie-family-historyservice/
The Story Behind 888
The Eight Hour Day was a campaign in the
1850s that brought about one of the most important
changes to the rights of workers. There were two major
campaigns that took place both in Sydney and Melbourne
but it's the Melbourne movement that is widely
known for successfully changing the general rights of
workers for the better.
The Eight Hour Day March
In 1856 on April 21st Victorian Stonemasons
staged a well-organised and executed protest. The
Stonemasons had been working on the construction of
the Old Quadrangle Building the original site of Melbourne
University when they all downed their tools and
proceeded to march on to Parliament House along with
other members of the building trade.
A similar strike had already been held that year in
Sydney lasting two weeks and while the Stonemasons
there had won the right to an eight-hour working day
they had also had to suffer reductions in wages.
Contrary to the efforts in New South Wales the
march held in Melbourne saw that the government
agreed that workers employed on public works would
have an eight-hour day while also having no loss of pay
in the bargain. It was because of this that the Melbourne
protest is now seen as a pivotal moment in the rights of
workers one that inspired other changes over the many
decades that followed.
888
During the march held in Melbourne those
attending the protest carried banners that held the
symbol of three figure 8's. The intertwined numbers
'888' represented the ideal that the workers were
fighting for - '8 Hours Work 8 Hours Recreation 8 Hours
Rest'.
Coined as early as 1817 by Robert Owen an English
Socialist the significant motif of this slogan would later
adorn the pediment of many of Australia's union buildings.
Following the success of the Eight Hour Day
Protest the Stonemasons celebrated that year with a
holiday and procession held on Monday 12th of May
known then as the Whit-Monday holiday. Inspiring all
that benefited from the new law, the parade saw almost
700 people take part in the march with patrons of the
parade holding backgrounds in as many as 19 trades.
Travelling from the Carlton Gardens to the
Cremorne Gardens in Richmond the march was a festive
event with workers marching proudly with decorative
banners alongside floats and bands performing.
https://www.onlymelbourne.com.au/
labour-day-melbournehistory#.XHPRo-QzaW8
The 888 monument on the corner of
Russell and Victoria Sts. Melbourne.

Girgarre Gazette March 2019 Page 17
The best of international acts,
accompanied some well regarded
Aussie talent make up the
artists who travel Australia with
the Small Halls Festival each
year. It’s a wonderful arts initiative, sponsored by
Woodfordia Inc., send visiting and Australian artists on the
road to small communities. It gives them a glimpse of parts
of Australia via our wonderful small communities they may
not otherwise get. For us, it brings fabulous artists, often
only seen in the major cities or at major festivals into our
community with the added bonus of a very reasonable ticket
price. These are nights to remember.
This year’s concert will be a sensational evening’s entertainment,
not only because of the great talent but
because it will be held in our rather beautiful Gargarro
Soundshell. The first International and touring act to perform
EXCITING NEWS - A FIRST FOR GIRGARRE’S SOUNDSHELL
there.
Canada’s ‘The Once’ are this year’s
featured International act. Their perfect
vocal harmonies and acapella arrangements
are a sheer delight. The Aussie
contribution will come from John
Flanagan. Well known on the folk circuit,
John is an honest and engaging performer
of timeless melodies. Picking up
numerous songwriting awards wherever he goes he wins
over fans in no time, as he no doubt will here in Girgarre on
Friday 5th April at 6:30pm. Tickets for this exciting event are
available from The Cottage, 27 Olympic St Girgarre (open
Monday to Thursday 10—3pm) or online
https://smallhalls.iwannaticket.com.au. Cost: Adult $25, Concession
(pension card holders) $20. Children under 14 free.
Below: ‘The Once’ and above right: John Flanagan
OLD SUITCASES. The Cottage needs any old suitcases
that maybe surplus in your household. They collect donated eye glasses
and bras for those in need and need somewhere to store them. If you
have one, (or glasses or bras) you no longer need then please drop
them off at The Cottage. Thank you. Kezia
Seniors Notes
We had a special treat recently when the fabulous Clarrie
and Avis Weller opened up their home and garden to us. We
strolled through the garden delighting in the gorgeous roses
and garden beds enjoying the shade trees and extensive
manicured lawns, a delight. Avis was kind enough to provide
morning tea; pikelets with home-made jam and sandwiches.
We car pooled there, so after our senses and bellies
were full, off we went on a drive stopping in at the Stanhope
café for lunch. We are enjoying a nice and easy start to the
year, taking things slowly while the weather is still warm. Our
thoughts and prayers are with those in Queensland affected
by the torrential rains, may you be safe.
We are also into our regular days at home now the
new year has begun. On Tuesdays from 10am, in The Cottage
Utility room with some fantastic meals planned by our
volunteer Chefs. The recent seafood feast, was one we had
with Hetty commenting that is was a “special occasion” meal.
It was a great start to the year. Our regular bingo trips, bowling
and Merry Melodies are on the calendar for this year too.
Kezia is encouraging us to join the library as it has vast resources
free to use. If you would like to join us or have a look
at our yearly program, please contact The Cottage on 5854
64 82.
SHEPPARTON WORKWEAR & SAFETY
189 – 197 High Street SHEPPARTON VIC 3630
FOR ALL YOUR WORKWEAR CORPORATE WEAR
AND EMBROIDERY
Ph.: 5831 4838
Fax: 5831 1696
Email: sales@sheppartonworkwear.com.au
Website: www.sheppartonworkwear.com.au

Girgarre Gazette March 2019 Page 18
GIRGARRE TENNIS CLUB - SUCCESSFUL YEAR WINDING UP
Another season is nearing conclusion, with our section
4 team making finals and the section 2 team still in
contention. We wish them luck in their finals
journey. The section 5 team had a great season
learning the basic skills of tennis and have shown great
improvement. Our senior team did not make finals.
We have great news for the Tennis Club,
Recreation Reserve and town in general with the
refurbishment of the southern courts about to begin.
The Shire of Campaspe Project Managers expects it to
be an eight week process. We look forward to playing
on new, safer courts next season, and are sure the
Netballers are looking forward to the same!
Billabong Bushies
A five piece bush dance band available for
hire. Contact Di Burgmann Ph: 0408 011
634. The Bushies will be playing in the
Lockington Hall on Saturday April 13th, a
bush dance fundraiser for the Kotta Hall.
LOCAL BANDS
TENNIS CLUB END OF YEAR BREAKUP
AND WORKING BEE
Friday 16 March at 6pm
Games and prizes for the children
while Mum and Dad help
out at a working bee.
At the Girgarre Tennis Courts
Contact: Fiona Smith 0408 502 274
The Pure Drop (click on the Facebook link)
A group of seven people with a love of
traditional Celtic and Aussie folk music,
based in Kyvalley, northern Victoria,
Australia. Contacts Lyn 5859 0297
Girgarre's pretty park in the evening light. Photo Lyn Cosham
BINGO!
A man goes into a doctor's office feeling
a little ill. The doctor checks him
over and says, ‘ Not good, we'll have
to do some blood tests’. A day later
the doctor rings him with the results.
'Sorry, I have some bad news,
you have Yellow 24, a really nasty
virus. It's called Yellow 24 because it
turns your blood yellow and you usually
only have 24 hours to live. There's
no known cure so just go home and
enjoy your final precious moments on
earth...'.
So the poor man trudges home
to his wife and breaks the news. Distraught,
she asks him to go to the bingo
with her that evening as he's never
been there with her before.
They arrive at the bingo and
with his first card he gets four corners
and wins $35. Then, with the same
card, he gets a line and wins $320
Then he gets the full house and wins
$5000. Then the National Game
comes up and he wins that too getting
$80,000.
The bingo caller gets him up
on stage and says, 'Son, I've been here
20 years and I've never seen anyone
win four corners, a line, the full-house
and the national game on the same
card. You must be the luckiest man on
earth!'
'Lucky?' yells the man. 'Lucky?
Don’t you know I've got Yellow 24'.
‘Well’, says the bingo caller ‘I’ll
be darned, you've won the meat raffle
as well !!!

Girgarre Gazette March 2019 Page 19
Lions Youth of the Year Public Speaking - Well Done
An excellent effort by two of our local students in the recent
annual Lions Youth Public Speaking Competition.
Libby Pangrazio and Katie Fletcher were our local participants in
what was a very close competition with a high standard exhibited
by all entrants.
Libby Pangrazio, pictured on the right below, was the winner.
Judges for the competition were Helen Armstrong,
Nikki Cardillo and Kezia Talbot.
Whole Orange
Cake.
Ingredients
1 orange, chopped roughly into small pieces
1 1/2 cups self-raising flour
1 cup sugar
3 eggs
180g butter, melted
Icing sugar for dusting
Method
Preheat the oven to 180°C. Line a round cake tin
with baking paper and set aside.
Place the orange (skin, seeds and all) into the blender
and blend until it's mushy.
Add the flour, sugar, eggs and butter and blend until
just combined.
Pour into the baking tin and smooth surface. Bake
for 40-45 minutes or until a skewer pushed into the
centre comes out clean.
Dust with icing sugar and serve.
Girgarre Gazette - It's Your Magazine!
It doesn’t take long to get back into routine does it?
The festivities and the fabulous Muster are over for another
year, school’s back and the work year is in full swing again.
Now, I think, is a good time to acknowledge the great
contribution so many of you out there in the wider
community make towards the Gazette.
We depend on your stories, photos, advertisements
and other items of interest to make it happen each month.
Your support has been fantastic, each and every one of you
has stepped up and kept your events and stories coming in. It
makes the compiling of the Gazette so much easier.
You may not be aware but producing the Gazette each
month involves a lot of team work. From myself as Editor;
Naomi, a substitute Editor when needed; Claire of HiViz
Management and Promotions who designs the front cover
each month and advises on layout; to Sally our excellent proof
reader. All of these people volunteer their time because they
want to be part of the exciting things that are happening in
and around Girgarre. There’s also the important
contribution by The Cottage staff and the volunteers. They are
the ones who fund and print, fold and distribute the Gazette
to local and regional centres. Barry and Sandi at the local Post
Office who deliver it on their round across the district are also
crucial to its success. It’s a smooth operation. Thank you all.
Irene Labbett (Editor)

Girgarre Gazette March 2019 Page 20