April 2019 Gazette

Girgarre Gazette April 2019 Page 1 

 

 

 

Regional Arts Victoria – Review of the ‘Girgarre Revival Project’ P6 

Market—Weird & Wonderful Vegetable Competition & Display on 14 April. P8 

Festival of Small Halls. Gargarro Soundshell, 7:30pm. “The Once” and John Flanagan 

https://smallhalls.iwannaticket.com.au Adults $25 Conc. $20. Friday 

5 April. 

The Girgarre Gazette, 

a Girgarre Cottage Publication


COORDINATOR’S CATCH UP 

Greetings everyone! I hope everyone is organised for our Weird and Wonderful Vegie 

Competition. I am currently pampering the biggest zucchini I have ever seen. A lot of 

time and effort and we are not even going to eat it, but my boys are enjoying the job. 

We are waiting for our giant beans to start looking...well…giant. I do not know if they 

are going to make the muster, but it has been fun playing in the garden with the kids (and yes, the snakes 

have kept us on our toes). I am looking forward to seeing everyone’s efforts on the 14th. 

We will also have a table next to the Green Thumbs Nursery site, taking registrations for our second 

Mother’s Day Classic. The annual Mother’s Day Classis walk and fun run will be held on 12 May 2019. Participation 

in the event will give hope to the 53 women diagnosed with breast cancer in Australia every 

single day. 

In previous years, the money raised has contributed to funding 64 breast cancer research projects and 

over 250 Australian scientists. This year the goal is to raise over $2.1 million so that vital research 

projects can continue to be funded. Walk, run, fundraise or volunteer – there are so many ways to get 

involved! Make Mother’s Day mean more for you, your friends and colleagues by supporting a cause that 

affects us all whilst having a fun day out. Please share with family and friends and help us raise monies 

for this worthy cause. You can register online, with us at April’s Farmers Market or at any time by coming 

into The Cottage. If you are unable to attend and would like to make a donation or would love to assist in 

this year’s event please just come and see myself or Kara. If you are going to register on the day, please 

bring cash as we will not have eftpos available. 

Finally I would like to say a huge thank you to Jo Doolan and Landcare who are providing us with 100 

trees, so everyone who joins us on the day, can take a tree to plant to help remember a loved one. 

WHERE 

Railway Reserve – Station Street, Girgarre 

WHEN 

Sunday 12 May 2019. 7.45am for an 8am start, on day registrations from 7.30am. It’s also Market Day so 

food, coffee and much, much more available after the event! Bye for now, Kezia 

Tuesday 21st May 2019 

10:30am 

Girgarre Community Cottage 

Gold Coin Donation 

EVERYONE WELCOME 

Front cover: Cover design by HiViz Event Management and Promotions


Fire Bells Ring for the Rebirth of Piano Piano 

Remember the Musical Fence installation over on the boundary of the Primary School 

and Recreation Reserve and the BBQ, and concert we all enjoyed on Wednesday 17 

May 2017 to launch it? The local Primary School children on a variety of homemade 

musical instruments gave an impressive performance playing an inspirational piece 

written for them by Graeme Leak. The ‘instruments’ were made from old fire extinguishers tuned up as ‘Fire Bells’; 

drums made from cherry barrels; homemade Tubas from piping and plastic containers, and cymbals tinkling away, 

created from Fowlers Preserving lids. It was the result of many weeks of collaborative work between the school 

children and Graeme Leak who was our Artist in Residence at the time. It was great fun. 

The finale of the evening was the launch of the Piano fence over on the boundary of the Recreation Reserve. 

Graeme, accompanied by Wallace Williams on his made-from-left-over tin Violin played a piece on it, then invited 

those present to try it for themselves. 

Well, the Piano Fence didn't weather too well out in the open over winter and it was eventually taken down. 

However, the idea of a musical fence persisted in the minds of the Girgarre Development Group and they eventually 

asked Kyvalley’s Wallace Williams to take on the job of creating a new, weather proof version of the Piano. 

Following a great many discussions between Graeme, (all the way from Scotland) and Wallace, by phone, video 

and email, Wal has taken the concept a couple of steps further than the original and the latest incarnation of 

‘Piano Piano’ has been hammered into shape in secrecy. Now kept well under wraps until Graeme’s return later 

this month, the launch of the new musical fence incorporating ‘Piano Piano’ and ‘Fire Bells’ will take place. It will 

not be over at the Recreation Reserve this time, but along the much more accessible walking track near the 

Girgarre Rail Siding. All will be revealed at the launch on Saturday 27 April, at 3.45pm. Come along and be surprised 

and delighted by this latest adjunct to the exciting growth and development of Girgarre. 

Graeme and Hazel, (Graeme’s partner) on 

holidays from Scotland. 

History board being measured as a 

model for the frame of the ‘Fire 

Bells’ installation. 

Wallace and Graeme, John and Loraine 

Warde deep in discussion about the 

placement of ‘Piano Piano’ along the 

walking track.

FRONT LINE FIRIES 


When it comes to volunteers in a community, and Girgarre has many, 

one of the most important groups would have to be the men and 

women of the local Country Fire Authority. They are amongst the first 

responders whenever there is a fire or accident, often find themselves 

in dangerous situations and what they do always involves planning, 

team work and skill. They are also asked to respond to calls to leave 

their own patch and go and support other branches of the service in 

need when there is a major fire outbreak. 

This happened recently when volunteers from Girgarre, alongside 

men from Rushworth, Wyuna, Rochester, Stanhope, Tongala and 

Kyabram were bussed down to the staging area at Koo Wee Rup Rec. 

Reserve in Gippsland to support the front line firefighters in the 

Alpine region of Gippsland. Fires caused by dry storms and lightning 

were burning on many fronts. They were widespread and fast moving 

and a number of them eventually joined into one massive front. 

Homes were lost and thousands of hectares of forest devastated. Not 

an easy situation to manage for the CFA fire fighters or the locals. 

On this occasion the team from this Region were tasked with 

mopping up behind the main fire and while it might seem that this was a far safer position to be in rather than at 

the fire front, that’s not necessarily so. Whole trees can be alight and about to topple catching firefighters 

unawares, burning stumps, thick smoke and black ash with red hot coal underneath are a trap waiting for an 

unwary volunteer. Looking at the devastation of someone’s destroyed home is also emotional and a little soul 

destroying. Above all else it is constant, dirty and very tiring. 

Local CFA members, John Warde, Trevor Turpin and George Weeks were Girgarre’s contribution to the 

local Regional team. They were on duty for two full night shifts on Tuesday March 5th and 6th. Both George and 

John said recently that they patrolled a given area and that it was very hard to see in the dark. Their job was to be 

on constant lookout for burning trees and stumps and hot spots to be damped down. Checking around houses 

thought to be in the clear was another important component of their job as fires can come back and relight after a 

front has gone through and homes can be lost. Senior CFA officials released the team for the long trip home once 

their area was declared secured. Very tiring, but no doubt a rewarding task well done. (Photo Loraine Warde) 

Another great training 

session. 

Girgarre and Stanhope fire brigades trained as though there was a 

fire at the school. They were practicing to set up for water, running 

hoses, quick fill up at the channel, hose set up for relaying of water 

between trucks, assessing and debriefing.


SGR Giants Junior Football Club’s Season launch was held on Sunday 17 March at 

Rushworth Football Oval. Attendance was fabulous with about 60 kids who had a 

great morning training session with former AFL players Daniel Harris & Brent 

Harvey. They were taken through some drills and then finished off with a mini 

game. 

The kids all sat together after the training session and asked Daniel & Brent lots of questions about their 

successful careers. We had a giant inflatable MCG that was kindly lent to us from AFL Goulburn Murray. The kids 

and their families enjoyed a lovely BBQ lunch to finish off the day. 

SGR Giants would like to thank Daniel & Brent for taking the time out of their busy schedules and giving our 

players a great training session. Thanks also to quality teams for attending with a great display of our club’s 

apparel. This season we will be fielding U10, U12 & U14 football teams. We have three experienced coaches in 

Daryl Harrison for U10, Brock Pierce for U12 and Ricky Miller for U14. If you are interested in playing for SGR Giants 

please contact our Club President Andrew Hipwell for further information on 0428 180 700. 

Our training sessions are on Wednesday nights and will be at Rushworth Football Oval for the next 4 weeks. 

U10 & U12 are at 5 – 6pm followed by U14 at 6-7pm. 

Daniel Harris & Brent Harvey attend season launch 17 March 2019


Regional Arts Victoria – Reviewing the ‘Girgarre Revival Project’ 

Natalie Fisher, Independent Evaluator, Graeme 

Coffey, Manager of the Regional Arts Victoria with 

Lisa Smith. 

Girgarre. 

Graeme Coffey, Manager of the Regional Arts Victoria, Small 

Towns Transformation Program accompanied by Natalie 

Fisher, an Independent evaluator of the six programs funded 

by RAV across Victoria revisited Girgarre on 19 March. 

A number of volunteers from the local community involved 

in the four major projects funded by the RAV grant here in 

Girgarre, along with Sam Campi, the Community Engagement 

Manager for the Shire of Campaspe, attended a group 

discussion with Graeme and Natalie. The discussion centred 

around the value and impact the projects have had on the 

town. The grant, awarded to Girgarre in 2016 enabled a 

small community, already dynamic and inclusive in many 

ways, to embark on a number of challenging arts projects 

that were formerly just part of a dream for the future of 

These were the ‘Fabric of Girgarre’ Quilt Panels, (now hanging in pride of place in the Memorial Hall); The 

Soundshell and Grand Avenue section of the Gargarro Botanic Gardens project; The employment of Artist in 

Residence, Graeme Leak and the birth of the ‘Girgarre Junkestra’ and the ‘Spirit Rising’ launch over at the Soundshell; 

The Robin Fox Sound and Light project, ’The Great Girgarre Constellation’; including the installation of the 

Theremin in the park and the Mid-Winter Feast. 

Each of the Arts Facilitators for these projects were experts in their chosen fields. Graeme Leak (Junkestra), 

Robin Fox (Sound and Light Show) and Gloria Loughman (who designed the Fabric of Girgarre project) are well 

regarded and known around the world for their expertise. Graeme continues to support the Arts here in Girgarre. 

Each contributed unique skills and talents that stimulated interest in the projects and lifted the profile of the town. 

These broad ranging events are a direct result of the significant grant from RAV. 

Everyone enjoyed a BBQ tea out in the park before retiring to the Hall for the forum. Natalie was well 

prepared with an interesting and informal series of questions designed to show the 

impact on the town and the wider community now the funding has been acquitted. 

What is it like to live In Girgarre? 

Comments like, “it’s a very caring, close community,”. …“it’s 

welcoming” (to newcomers). “…there’s always a lot going on” and “…the drive and 

enthusiasm of the people” were just some of the comments in response to the 

question put to them by Natalie. 

We didn’t lay down and die- 

Girgarre, like many other small communities, was hit hard by the drought 

15 years ago. As a number of the guests at the forum said “We didn’t lay down and 

die, but we gathered up what resources we had and started the Farmers Market 

and the Moosic Muster”. The beginning of a long term plan of re-engagement in 

the community. The Heinz factory closing was not altogether unexpected but 

another blow a few years later. 

Sam Campi, Community 

Engagement manager for Shire 

of Campaspe, with Lisa Smith. 

Compared to Rochester, where a recent factory closure has left a legacy of hardship and readjustment as 

there was no transitioning by the company to local groups who had been beneficiaries of its presence. A positive 

aspect to the loss of the Heinz factory was the generous package of land and water ceded to the local community. 

These resources became the catalyst for kick starting the ‘Gargarro Botanic Gardens’ project. 

Is it enduring? 

Well, the comment was, “they can’t take that away from us”. Factories, railways, droughts, industry downturns 

come and go but the spirit of Girgarre endures. Projects like the Gargarro Botanic Gardens will continue to 

grow and mature into the future.


Reviewing the Girgarre Revival Project cont… 

The Icing on the Cake. 

Overall the RAV funded projects were seen as enhancement to the 

existing arts culture of Girgarre. The ‘Transformation’ of the town doesn’t 

lie in a direct response to the downturn in the dairy industry, the drought 

or the closure of the factory. But significantly, the projects have raised the 

profile of the town and its’ community and brought encouragement and 

hope. The community has blossomed over the past three years, and the 

potential for a broadened Arts Culture are now well established. It’s there 

for everyone to see. 

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 it off at The Girgarre Cottage.


GREEN THUMBS NURSERY 

Carol’s Garden Notes 

Supporting your community car 

Green Thumbs Nursery 

What a busy time this is. The large number of visitors to the 

nursery in March and the plentiful generous donations of 

plants we have gratefully received indicate our gardeners 

(customers and supporters) are being re-invigorated. For 

volunteers it’s not a question of what to do but trying to 

prioritise our tasks for maximum benefit. Geraniums and 

pelargoniums may be tidied up in coming weeks. If very leggy 

you can be fairly ruthless. Other healthy specimens may only 

require reducing by a third and soft leaved, more delicate 

ones should be pruned before Anzac Day to avoid early frosts 

damaging new growth. Many other species may be treated in 

similar fashion before it gets too cold. Leaving these until 

after winter, as I recommended last year was counter productive 

when we failed to complete the spring pruning because 

other tasks and preparing the nursery for the Open Garden 

Festival became priorities. 

Among our offerings at the Nursery we have Hoys at $5 ea. 

Current specials are Osteospermums/African daisies, (some 

flowering), pink and white Rock Roses and Herbs all $2. Also 

yellow Chrysanthemums at 50 cents. We look forward to 

your next visit or catching up at our market site. 

Weird & Wonderful Vegetable Competition & 

Display on 14 April. After many months this is 

your final reminder. We are eagerly looking 

forward to viewing whatever edible produce 

you have managed to grow whilst contending 

with very difficult seasonal conditions. 

Please be aware for safety reasons it is a condition that cars 

are not permitted to be driven inside the market area, 

(including the car park) between 8.30 am and the conclusion 

of the market at 12 noon. You may pull up across the entry 

to unload and assistance will be available if required. 

Should you be fortunate enough to have a very large pumpkin 

for easier transporting & handling you could roll it onto a 

sturdy bag or tarpaulin. Please try to deliver by 8.30 am, 

refer to earlier Gazettes or visit the Green Thumbs Nursery & 

Girgarre Cottage face book sites for more information. 

14 April Market Sunday 

Entries between 8am and 9am on the day at site adjacent to 

Green Thumbs Nursery in the car park next to The Memorial 

Hall. 

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) 

Section 4. Ugliest or most unusual vegetable 

(Girgarre Stanhope) 

Section 5. Most colourful vegetable (Girgarre/Stanhope) 

Section 6. Pre-school & primary school categories 

(Girgarre/ Stanhope) 

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 

Recently Girgarre RSL held their Annual General Meeting. Those present then elected the 

management team for the next 12 months, these being President – Laurie Young, Treasurer – 

Robert Axen, Senior Vice President — Harry Ashton, Junior Vice President – George Weeks, 

Welfare & Appeals Officer – Robyn Hunt and Secretary – William Perry. Over the next six weeks 

the branch will be very busy with the major fundraiser of the Golf and Bowls Tournaments on 

Anzac Day at Valley View. Come along and support us if you are a golfer or bowler. There are 

some really great prizes to be won (flyer p23). 

On the issue of support we invite you to our dawn service and gunfire breakfast on Anzac Day morning, commencing 

at 0600 hours. Children are most welcome at this very moving service. 

At the moment we are very busy rebuilding our kitchen facilities. We look forward to sharing with our community 

this new look to our clubrooms. If you would like further information regarding the Golf/Bowls Day, our Dawn 

Service or our work in your community or the greater RSL work please speak to committee members or RSL 

members. Thank you. Secretary – William Perry 0408 174 543. 

DAWN SERVICE 

AND BREAKFAST 

Thursday 25 April 

0600 hours 

at the Memorial Flags 

GOLF AND BOWLS 

TOURNAMENT 

Thursday 25 April 

Assembly 11:30 

Valley View 

ANZAC MARCH 

Sunday 28 April 2019 

Girgarre RSL will march with 

Stanhope RSL 

1.30pm assembly at the 

Stanhope RSL 

25 Brundell St, Stanhope


Goodness Easter is upon us in the blink of an eye, hot cross buns in the shops everywhere. 

The Rushworth Heritage Easter Festival on Easter Saturday also the Moora Recreation Reserve on Easter Sunday, 

with all the big horses and many activities to take part and to watch. Rushworth & District Community Bank is 

pleased to be sponsoring these festivals again. 

Anzac Day is very busy and much commemoration in our communities. The Gun Fire Breakfast in Girgarre and the 

Anzac Day Bowls Golf Day at Valley View – Rushworth & District Community Bank is pleased to be able to sponsor 

the afternoon tea. 

These sponsorships and support are all due to our loyal customers, who continue to bank with our Community 

Bank. Remember if you bank with Bendigo Bank and it is not domiciled to Rushworth your banking is not 

supporting our communities. Check on the top of your statement and it will tell you where your account is held. 

The Grants and Sponsorship Program is opening on 1 April until 30 April. Contact the Branch in Rushworth 

58562122 if your group or organisation is thinking of a project large or small and obtain the necessary forms or 

information or to put you in contact with our Community Enterprise Foundation. 

Christine Borger, Chair, Rushworth & District Community Bank. 

Girgarre Carpet Bowls Association 

Play in the Girgarre Memorial Hall on Thursday nights starting at 7pm. 

There has been a significant increase 

in burglaries and theft throughout the 

Campaspe Shire and no town has 

been spared. Police are working 

hard to identify the perpetrators 

and bring them before the Courts. As you may 

have read in the paper recently, a joint Police 

operation resulted in several persons being 

arrested and charged in relation to a number of 

burglaries and theft. 

Investigations are still continuing, but the 

community’s assistance is required. 

The community is asked to report any suspicious 

vehicles, persons or behaviour to 000 at the time it 

is occurring. Stanhope/Girgarre people are the 

best people to judge if something is odd or out of 

place in our communities. So if you see a vehicle or 

person/s you believe is suspicious or out of place, 

contact Police immediately on 000 and report the 

incident. Attempt to obtain as much information 

as you can, for example; Car Description – make, 

colour, sedan etc?; Person Description – male/ 

female, age, hair, clothing, items carried etc?; Location 

– where seen, street, landmark,– near shop/ 

park etc; and if Driving- last direction observed to 

be driving or heading in. 

Please ensure that you lock your vehicles and 

remove any valuables. 

The season begins 4 April until 15 August except Anzac Day. Secretary is Theo George—0428740976


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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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 

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EMAIL: girgarregazette@yahoo.com.au 

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The items published and the views expressed are those of the 

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Gazette 

Girgarre Gazette Editor: Irene Labbett. 

Ph: 5852 1995 M: 0429 149 246 

girgarregazette@yahoo.com.au


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”


Development Group General Meeting - Tuesday 26 March 2019 

The vision: To build a sustainable vibrant community and create 

opportunities to celebrate the achievements of the town 

Small Halls is returning on 5 April – this will be our 

first International concert in the Soundshell. 

Award winning Canadian trio The Once and Australia’s 

John Flanagan will be the artists for the evening. 

Tickets available online or at The Cottage. 

ACM Report 

John Hommes from ACM reported that the butter 

machine is being commissioned and the sale of organic 

butter will flow into Coles and Woolworths shortly. John 

reported that Damien Drum will attend the official opening 

of the plant on the 9th April. 

Resource Resolutions 

Ian Bertram reported that many conversations are 

occurring around funding opportunities. 

Solar Farm 

Peter Leeson reported that the company is still a 

couple of months away from the completion of the 

Powercor study. 

Market 

It was reported that the March market was well 

attended and stall holders enjoyed a good morning of 

sales. The review of the running of the market including 

naming, promotion, branding and management is underway. 

Manuals for the set up, pack down and the running of 

Jigarre Juice are being compiled 

Graeme Leak 

Graeme made a flying trip to Girgarre before 

heading off on holidays with his partner in March. Plans 

for Piano Piano and the Fire Bells were discussed and 

notification to the shire has been forwarded. 

Two concrete pads will be constructed before these new 

instruments can be installed. 

Launch date for Piano Piano and the Fire Bells is Saturday 

27 April at 3.45 pm at the Railway Reserve when both 

instruments will be unveiled – all are invited to attend. 

Rehearsals are well and truly underway for the upcoming 

performances of the Junkestra. Maureen Sheppard has 

guided the orchestra in Graeme’s absence - Graeme has 

been liaising with Maureen re the performances in 

Nathalia and Federation Square while he has been away 

in England. Mark Summers from Forbes and Summers 

will be transporting the orchestra to Melbourne for its 

performance at Federation Square 

Jigarre Jamming Camp over - 26 to 28 April 

On Saturday morning Graeme Leak will be doing a 

workshop at the Memorial Hall at 10.30 am and at 

7.30pm there will be a concert in the hall – all welcome / 

cost $ 5.00 

Girgarre Stanhope Rail Trail Walking Track 

In response to a letter from Sandra McDonald re 

the Rail Trail funding drive to assist with stage 3 of the 

trail, the Development Group agreed to contribute 

$2,000 towards this development. 

RSL 

Rob Axen reported that the new kitchen is well 

underway and will be completed by Anzac Day and that 

preparations for the Golf/Bowls Day at Valley View are 

on track to make it a very successful event. 

Gargarro Botanical Garden 

Doc McDonald reported that he had attended the 

Botanic Gardens Australia & New Zealand meeting in 

Ballarat and that an invitation had been extended to 

speak at the BGANZ conference in New Zealand later in 

the year. 

Friends of the Gardens 

It was reported that mulching of the Grand 

Avenue trees will commence on Sunday 31 March and 

that the lawns on the amphitheatre had been rehabilitated 

so that they were more sustainable in our climate. 

Recreation Reserve 

Greg Fitzpatrick reported that work on the three 

new tennis courts is well underway. He reported that 

considerable work is going into the foundation work. 

Greg also reported that although the project had taken a 

while to get started it is now well underway and will 

take approximately eight weeks to complete. The new 

courts are a Campaspe shire project 

CFA 

George Dibattista reported that the CFA had 

manned the BBQ at the recent Kyabram Truck Show and 

thanked Lorella Simpson for her enormous efforts over 

the two day event. 

George also reported on the possibilities of upgrading 

our dump site at the rear of the hall. Permission from the 

shire is being obtained before these works can occur. 

Parks and Gardens 

John Warde reported that the dry weather was 

having an impact on new plantings. 

Tennis 

Duncan Rodrick reported that grants are being 

sought for the upgrade to the Tennis Club rooms kitchen 

and that the section four team had made it to the tennis 

finals (more p22). 

Growers Group 

Duncan reported that the next Growers Group 

meeting is on 6 April– for more information please call 

Duncan on 0427 391 706


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


KYABRAM TOWN HALL GALLERY APRIL 

OPEN Mon-Sat 10am-4pm 

MARCH 28th THE HOMECOMING The stories of the 

WW1 Women on their return after serving our country. The 

exhibition tells their stories with clothes and memorabilia. 

NEW EXHIBITIONS OPENING 1st APRIL 

A TOUCH OF INTERNATIONAL 

Traditional clothing from many countries. 

TEXTILE ART 

Splinter Contemporary Artists: 

A SURVEY FEB 5-APRIL 30


CLASSIFIEDS & SERVICES 

0467 546 461


Chair Dancing 

Fridays 10.30am 

Commencing 26 April 

The Girgarre Cottage, Utility Room 

Cost $2 

45min session 

Followed by tea & coffee 

All enquiries contact 

Kezia on 5854 6482 

Proudly sponsored by SWEAT VS STEAM 

An event coordinated by the YMCA and 

Edge FM 102.5 

WORDS ON WHEELS 

in the Cottage Utility room 

6pm. Third Tuesday of month 

Everyone welcome to join in for an evening of 

stimulating discussions on topical subjects. 

Contact: Carol Ohlin Ph: 5854 6371 

Senior’s News. 

March 6—wow, what a week we had last week at 

bowling in Shepparton. Everyone had a fabulous 

time, with Buff being crowned the bowling champion. 

The service was exemplary and the staff also did 

a great job with lunch, lovely fresh sandwiches and a 

selection of pies and sausage rolls. Great value for 

money and we recommend this outing to all senior 

groups as they have bowling balls with handles and 

ramps to assist those with limited mobility. We 

strongly suggest using the bumpers as it limits gutter 

balls and makes for a more exciting and even game. 

March 13—Last week we were in house for a lovely 

catch up. Our numbers were down due to medical 

appointments and family commitments, but we had 

a great time never the less. Hetty and Joy were enjoying 

mindful colouring, while Dale, Marg and Phyllis 

were discussing the pros and cons of My Aged 

Care and the joys of getting older. We had a mini 

session solving the problems of photo albums and 

mobile phones, thinking all was lost but alas no, pictures 

were all still there. Next week we are heading 

over to Shepparton for Merry Melodies and to be 

entertained by Anthony Tenace. 

March 20— Off to Shepparton we travelled last 

week with Slim Dusty accompanying us on our way 

over. The foot tapping music definitely put us in the 

mood for Anthony Tenace who once again engaged 

the crowd with his rock’n’roll and his audience participation. 

Once again we were well fed with fish and 

chips or roast and finished off with a diet destroying 

pav. I don’t know if we enjoy the RSL or the bus trip 

more, but fun and laughs are had by all. An excellent 

day out which we would recommend to everyone. 

Next week we are in house, with planned one on 

one session to join Be Connected an information 

program for seniors. 

March 27.—We had a lovely day in house with a visit 

from Avis from the Stanhope Lions Club. Avis has 

made the promise to come back and call bingo for us 

adding an adult element with a naughty twist. Joy 

continues to amaze us with her artistic talent, this 

week bringing in a beautiful crocheted knee rug. She 

makes many of these and donates to those undergoing 

medical treatments who are in need of a little 

added warmth. Debra wowed us again with her creativity, 

turning a plain lamb stew into an extremely 

tasty lamb and vegetable cottage pie with a layer of 

sautéed autumn vegetables, all topped with cheesy 

potatoes….yum. Wendy turned her hand to dessert 

making a lovely coconut apple crumble, no left-overs 

there! We are getting excited about our trip to 

Barmah this week and are looking forward to sharing 

our stories with you, until then take care. Kezia


Piano Piano and Fire Bells launch on 

Saturday 27 April, at 3.45pm 

by the Girgarre Rail Trail siding. 

Expressions of interest for Chair Dancing 

At Stanhope Senior Citizens rooms 

Possible days, Mon, Wed or Thursday 9.30-10.30 

Enjoy the music and get fit while you sit. 

A fun low impact method of exercise. 

$5.00 includes cuppa. 

All enquiries—Raelene 5857 2712 

BUSH DANCE and BBQ at KOTTA HALL—13 April 2019 5:30pm 

(Kotta/Lockington Rd, Kotta) 

Adults$10. Under 16 years $5. 

Annette 0448275239 ALL WELCOME 

LOCAL BANDS 

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 Kotta Hall on Saturday 13 April, a bush 

dance fundraiser for the Kotta Hall. Everybody welcome. 

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, 

Lockington Vintage Tractor & Machinery 22nd Rally 

Club Name: Lockington & District Living Heritage Complex Inc. 

Date: 27 & 28 April, 2019 

Address: Market Street, Lockington, Vic., 3563 

Event Details: Our rally will feature International Harvester’s 80 th birthday. Trucks, tractors, stationery 

engines, along with many other vintage collections on display. 

Contact: President: Joe Chappel (03)54862226, Vice President: Fenton Phillips 0428882215, 

Secretary: Beryl Marshall 0428862353 

In town also: The Scarecrow display will again be a town feature, and ‘Town Garage Sales’ on Saturday 

only. Saturday night movie. Camping (0447 787 581) and full catering available. For a stall site contact 

5486 2563 

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


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.


Camp Weekend 26 -28 April 

Camp weekends in Girgarre are popular, always relaxed and good fun. April's weather is 

always friendly, and the facilities and camaraderie are great as you will know if you've ever 

been to a Muster. Camps are set up in the park close to the Hall, not over in the reserve as they 

are at a Muster. The Hall facilities, including the BBQ are there if you want to use them, bring your tea over and eat 

in the supper room too if you would like to. Quite a few campers tend to arrive from Thursday before the weekend 

which is nice. Everyone is approachable, you can wander over and introduce yourselves and join a jam. There's 

nothing nicer than small groups, sometimes large ones, making music waft over the park, or everyone sharing a 

drink and a nibble as the sun sets. It's a fabulous social time. Friday we open up the facilities. Please remember this 

is a BYO weekend, you need to be self-sufficient if camping, there's only a small Post Office cum store in Girgarre. 

The Saturday afternoon program is pretty much the same as usual but at camp weekends we like to add something 

new and a bit different if we can. April's camp is no exception. 

Thursday/Friday - find your camp spot and settle in. 

Friday evening - we have a walk up and Jam “in the round” in the Supper Room (or the Hall if there is a huge 

crowd) after tea. Two songs each, it's friendly and a great opportunity to have a go in front of an embracing crowd. 

Followed by a Jam until everyone gets tired but probably not much later than 11.30pm for the sake of the 

neighbours. 

Saturday morning - Graeme Leak and Patrick Cronin of Junkestra fame will lead another popular workshop. At 

the moment it's a mystery but be assured it will be good, the workshop this time last year was loved by all. Begins 

at 10.30am in the Hall. 

Saturday afternoon - our usual program with an added touch of spice for later on in the afternoon, (read on). 

Saturday evening - a concert with invited artists. 

Sunday morning from 9.30 - 10.30am As many musicians as can rouse themselves after a rather full day on 

Saturday, will walk over the road to the Church and play Old Time Gospel for the Congregation. This is a 

non-threatening environment; the Church Leaders suspend their usual service in favour of a singalong. It's very 

popular with the locals and campers alike. 

Come along, if not to play then add your voice to these familiar old time songs. The Church people allow us the use 

of their facilities for the Camp without charge each year. 

Let's pay them back with a fabulous morning of singing. (Words for the singers and Lead sheets for the 

musos provided). The Church folk also give us a fabulous morning tea/brunch afterwards. Be there at 9 am, tuned 

up if you want to take part. 

Make the most of the weekend - stay until lunch time Sunday for a Pizza lunch, (provided free this time). Who 

knows, it could turn into an afternoon of jamming out in the park. 

Continued next page


There's always room for a volunteer or two before you leave Sunday to help sweep up and clean the kitchen 

before we close up the facilities. We have to leave it as we found it. Please help if you can, many hands and all 

that! 

Cost for the weekend is very reasonable. 

For each camp group there for the music weekend, whether one or two or more people, the entry is $15 per 

head. This is all you need to pay for the weekend. Payable once you arrive, to Irene. 

If you are a Saturday only participant, then the usual $2 entry plus a $5 entry to the concert if you plan to stay. 

Everyone still needs to provide their plate of afternoon tea, ready to go out please. And lastly, do offer to help 

with setting and clearing up where you can see a need over the weekend. The Jigarre Jammin' volunteers do a 

great job, but some help shifting chairs and clearing up is always appreciated. 

Girgarre's Got Talent! Your Chance to Star! 

Throw your hat into the ring for this fantastic opportunity. Here's how it will work. 

Throughout the day on Saturday 26 April John Finn and myself will take down the names of everyone who would 

like to take part in a 'Five Minutes of Fame Walk Up' and I hope, that's a lot of you. Later in the afternoon we'll 

jumble up the names and choose three randomly. Each group of three will be allocated a 'Seasoned Performer' 

who will work with your group to rehearse a song your group will have chosen, ready to star on stage, first up at 

the Saturday evening concert. 

The drawing of the names will take place at afternoon tea time around 2.45pm in the Supper Room. You'll have 

plenty of time to get together with your 'Seasoned Performer' and work up a song before tea time. However, you 

must be prepared to stay for the concert. Easy if you're camping, but maybe not if you need to go home after 

4pm. If you do decide to stay and take part just remember to bring extra food for tea as well as lunch. This will be 

terrific fun, the variety and different genres of songs groups come up with, including the names they create for 

their group, will fill you with admiration and laughter; and remember, it's for everyone beginner to the more 

advanced. I can't stress that enough. It's for all comers. 

Junkestra Players 

Hope you're ready and excited Junkestra Players! Your turn to star in the Deakin Edge Theatre, Federation Square 

Melbourne on 4 May as part of the 'Make and Play - Arts Learning Festival' is approaching fast. You will have received 

notification about rehearsal times with Graeme, who is back in Australia now, although on holiday for a few 

weeks. There's only a few more weeks left for polishing up the pieces Graeme has prepared. Want to know more 

about the festival. Here's the link. https://artslearningfestival.com.au 

Some fun with the walk ups on Friday nights.


Spinach Salad with fetta and roasted sweet potatoes. 

2c Baby Spinach 

1 Sweet Potato, diced 

1 Tbsp Dried Cranberries 

1 Tbsp Chopped Walnuts 

1-2 Tbsp Extra Virgin Olive 

Oil 

2 Tbsp. Crumbled Feta 

Salt and Pepper, to taste 

Balsamic dressing 

Directions: 

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees. 

Place the diced sweet potato on a foil lined baking sheet, 

drizzle with the extra virgin olive oil, salt, and pepper. 

Toss everything together so that all of the potatoes 

are coated. 

Place in the preheated oven and roast for 20-30 minutes 

until tender and golden brown. 

Remove from oven and let cool for 10 minutes. 

Assemble your salad how you like, and use the dressing of 

your choice. 

Option - To bulk up this recipe you can add grilled chicken, 

grilled salmon, or steak. 

Girgarre Football Netball 

Club 2019 fixture 

Rnd 1 April 6— Away V 

Merrigum 

Rnd 2 April 13—Home V 

Violet Town 

Rnd 3 April 27—Away V 

Lancaster 

Rnd 4 May 4— Away V 

Nagambie 

Rnd 5 May 11—Home V 

Dookie United 

Rnd 6 May 25—Home V 

Tallygaroopna 

Rnd 7 June 1—Away V 

Avenal 

Rnd 8 June 8—Home V 

Ardmona 

Rnd 9 June 15—BYE 

Rnd 10 June 22—Away V 

Murch-Tool 

Rnd 11 June 29—Home V 

Longwood 

Rnd 12 July 13—Away V 

Undera 

Rnd 13 July 20—Home V 

Stanhope 

Rnd 14 July 27—Away V 

Shepp East 

Rnd 15 August 3—Home 

V Rushworth 

Rnd 16 August 10— 

Home V Merrigum 

Rnd 17 August 17— BYE 

Rnd 18 August 24—Away 

V Rushworth 

GF September 2. 

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. 

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.


Girgarre Cricket Club 

This year we had our C grade make the finals but unfortunately 

bowed out after the first final. It was a year 

when our B grade struggled to have the same team on 

the field on consecutive weeks. Over the whole season 

32 players reeled through the side. 

A positive out of the year was the junior players making 

their contributions to the club. Rhys Shay made a B 

grade 50, and Mitch Heywood not only got his first 

wicket in senior cricket but turned it into a 5 wicket 

haul. 

C grade had at least 5 juniors playing each week with 

three Morris brothers Ben ,Tom and Jack mainstays 

each week with their father Richard and Uncle Andrew. 

Also talented young local all round sportsman Talbot 

Varcoe and father Jason. Talbot also made 60 runs 

against Stanhope during the season. 

The season was wrapped up with our presentation day 

held at the club rooms on Saturday 26th March. 

The Baz Hughes Memorial 

Award for the highest grade 

was won by Rhys Febey who 

was also a leader off the 

field as well as on. 

The Maurie Varcoe 

Best Clubman Award 

was deservedly won 

by Scott Fitzallen. 

Girgarre Tennis Club 

Another tennis season has finished, with the tennis club holding a working bee and barbeque to wrap the season 

up. It was well attended with children enjoying games while the adults worked hard. 

Our section 4 team of Kade, Tayler, Xavier and Mackenzie reached the finals, winning the preliminary final 

against Merrigum but were knocked out in the semi final by Kyabram Lawn. It was a great effort and season for 

such a young team. 

Redevelopment of the courts is well underway, with hopes that the project will be completed in eight weeks. 

Duncan Rodrick cooking the BBQ and Joel Canny cleaning up the tennis courts.

Girgarre Gazette April 2019 Page 23

Girgarre Gazette April 2019 Page 24

April 2019 Gazette

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