Girgarre Gazette June Final 2020

Girgarre Gazette June2020 page
Gazette
The Girgarrre
A Girgarrre Cottage Publication
June 2020
BRENDON & TENEALLE NICHOLSON.
ISOLATION PHOTO, TAKEN BY
CLAUDIA MOORE AS A FUNDRAISER
FOR THE GIFT. SEE PAGE 2

Girgarre Gazette June2020 page 2
GIRGARRE COMMUNITY NEWS
It is with tremendous gratitude we thank Irene Labbett for all of her effort, dedication and
countless hours she has spent working on the Gazette over the last two years. Irene has now
stepped down from the volunteer editor role and we wish her all the best with her future endeavours.
I am sure she will continue to excel with whatever passion project she finds herself
doing. So people, a huge round of applause for Irene please. A job well done and big shoes to
fill.
On that note we are currently producing the Gazette in house and would like anyone who has a
passion for their community, writing stories, photography, computer skills or any other talents and we are not ruling
out plain enthusiasm to contact us. We would like to form a team to produce the Gazette, as experience has
taught us that it is a lot of work for an individual. No previous experience required and you can do as much (or
little) as you like. You will be guided, supported and instructed if needed. So if you or people you know would like
to have fun and produce a valuable edition to our community please contact me, Kezia, at The Cottage 5854 6482
or email girgarrenh@bigpond.com Thank you.
Girgarre Library
I have received the following update from Jenny Mustey, Library Services Manager for the Campaspe regional
Library Services. “Just a quick update to say that we still need to keep our library depots closed for at least the
next couple of weeks. We are still in the process of re-opening the larger branches and working out procedures
and catching up things after being closed for the last couple of months. If you don’t mind can you just let the community
know that depots will reopen soon, but just not at the moment. I will be in touch to discuss what will be
required and when we can start widening our services including depots.” I will keep you informed.
FARM LIFE with Tenealle Nicholson
If have never been more grateful for living on a farm, with a big
backyard and lots of space around us, than I was when we were
advised to stay home due to the recent COVID-19 pandemic.
For six weeks, myself and husband Brendon with our three girls,
Ruby 4, Iris who turned 3 during the “lockdown” and Lily 1, like
many households in the world, hardly left our property. Unlike
many others, we had 500 acres to play on, and with the
beautiful sunshine and warm days, we were some of the lucky
ones. My mornings were spent pushing the girls on the swings,
watching them on the trampoline and keeping the youngest
from falling from the elevated cubby. The girls did lots of
painting and scavenger hunts, and watched Robyn from the
Girgarre Community Kindergarten on their Facebook page who
posted little videos each day including activities for the kids and
reading books. The girls loved these and I got lots of great ideas
– thanks Robyn!!!
The girls were also lucky enough to spend some time on the
farm with their dad, helping with the calves and bring up the
cows.
Although the social isolation was tough, it was wonderful to get
the chance to slow down and spend quality time together. We
Facetimed with friends and family, so they were never too far
away.
We are fortunate to be living in Australia where most people
have done the right thing and we are now able to gradually start
spending time with friends and family again. The girls were very
happy to go back to day care and Kinder and play with their
friends.
Rail Trail
The Rail Trail has received two picnic tables
courtesy of the Healthy Heart Project Victoria
;the Project is a state-wide initiative to
encourage a healthy, active lifestyle for all
age groups.
The tables have been installed in Progress
Park near the station and there are also two
bench seats which will be positioned along
the Walking Track within the town precinct.
Thank you to the Shire of Campaspe Health
Broker Sarah Pain and Cottage Coordinator
Kezia Talbot for their assistance in obtaining
what will be well used community assets.
Sandra Macdonald

Girgarre Gazette June2020 page 3
Co-ordinator’s Catch-up
Greetings everyone! I
I hope this finds you all well, healthy, happy and warm. I am writing this on Monday the first of
June and my lord, winter is here with a bang! Freezing cold, windy and 16mm of rain so far today.
You can not knock Victoria for embracing its seasons, as far as winter weather goes I am
giving this a ten out of ten.
Where did May go? I must have blinked and missed it! Though I do remember Mother’s Day. My kids and I converted
an old squirrel glider enclosure into an outdoor eatery. A lot of work, but boy it was a fun way to spend a
weekend. And a bonus, I mastered my chainsaw and learnt how to use an angle grinder. Which I have since been
told is a plastic surgeons favourite tool for gathering business. Oops! I hope all of the Mothers out there, also had
a lovely but very different day.
With the easing of restrictions as of the 31st of May, many people are chafing at the bit for life to return to normal.
However, we know that now is not the time and it may never return to the completely “normal” we knew
before. However, there have been many positives from this pandemic; increased time with family, opportunities
to slow down and appreciate the little things in life and the wonderful feeling we get when we think of and help
others. I know many people have been doing it tough; financially, socially and mentally but we will get there in
the end...together.
At this stage (beginning of June), we will not be resuming our normal programs. After conversations with DHHS,
NHVic and the Shire of Campaspe, we belief it is in the best interest if we continue to offer our essential services
only; food, meals and tech assistance. Community transport services are not yet permitted following DHHS
directives. We appreciate your patience and understanding as we work through all safety and hygiene requirements,
to ensure the welfare of all of our participants, volunteers and staff. We look forward to resuming our
normal programs as soon as possible and are predicting a mid July reopening.
On this note, we have included some technology information, which may assist you in these times of physically
distancing. If you require further assistance, please phone to book a time for a one-on-one training session.
One of our wonderful volunteers Sandra Basic (left) preparing a community
meal, which we deliver. Sandra and Debra Stelzer prepare two
meals a week. Debra for Tuesday and Sandra for Thursday’s meal.
Debra delivers these meals on both days, thanks Debra we would be
lost without you. We commenced our first meal delivery on the 31st of
March and up to the end of May we have delivered 189 meals. A sample
of the meals we are preparing are: Chicken curry, rice & pappadums,
Silverside, veg, white sauce, Pasta, Meatloaf & veg, Osso bucco,
Lamb casserole and Roast chicken. Desserts are also prepared.
Please remember food relief parcels are available, phone to organise a collection time.
Thank you, take care. Kezia.
Girgarre Community Cottage

Girgarre Gazette June2020 page 4
Girgarre Stanhope Land Protection Group
Landcare Australia was formed in 1989, Landcare
Victoria even earlier in Nov 1986. An initiative of
Joan Kirner, (Then Minister of Conservation Forests
and Lands) and Heather Mitchell (Then President of
the Victorian Farmers Federation)
Locally in June 1986 the Girgarre Salinity Study
Group was formed by a group of farmers who had
experienced high water table and salinity problems
surrounding the present-day Girgarre Evaporation
Basin.
In March 1989, the groups name changed to
Girgarre Stanhope Land Protection Group Inc with
emphasis on total care for the land. Members were
mainly irrigated dairy farmers and some graziers. It
was the first irrigation district-based Landcare Group
in Victoria.
Farmers were encouraged to develop whole farm
plans, do laser grading, install ground water pumps
and plant trees.
Projects undertaken over the years:
Revegetation of the disused railway line from Stanhope
towards Rushworth.
A 7Ha Demonstration site adjacent to Stanhope milk
factory.
Assisting with the construction and maintenance of
an 8km community drain.
Electromagnetic survey 1993, which led to the instillation
of a public groundwater pump.
Bimonthly newsletters distributed to 325 households.
Hosting tour groups at the evaporation Basin on
Morrissey road.
A partnership with the Stanhope Primary School,
planting 1 ha of trees. And teaching about salinity
and Landcare to schoolchildren in the Shepparton
Irrigation district schools.
Present Day.
After some years in recess (2004-2016) our primary
focus will be to work with the Girgarre Stanhope Rail
Trail committee on revegetating and completing the
walking track between the two towns.
The Land Protection Group has been successful in
receiving a Vic Track Grant through Landcare Australia.
Funding has been allocated for fencing, spraying
and direct seeding.
The C19 restrictions has affected our chance to
meet, but work is progressing, and recent rain has
been great for the potential to establish plants. The
task is bipartisan, and we hope to create a beautiful
space to be used by many. Berndette Fitzpatrick

Girgarre Gazette June2020 page 5
Winter in the Vegetable Garden with Jo Doolan
As the weather cools down it is a good time to clean up our
vegetable beds and plant winter veggies. Winter is also a
great time to make compost with falling leaves and grass
clippings. All this activity is a great way to
stay fit and keep warm.
My vegetables struggled with the hot dry
summer: the only successful produce
were the herbs.
weekend in the bed that I will be planting garlic bulbs into
soon. The green plant matter will break down and act as a
mulch/weed mat. Hopefully the worms & soil critters get
busy and help to make humus.
This season I am growing cauliflower, broccoli, cabbage,
radish, spinach, carrot and beetroot. These can be sown as
seed or plant seedlings. Root vegetables (carrots, radish,
beetroot) are best sown as seed into the bed they will grow
in: they don’t like being moved once they are growing.
Broccoli seedlings Carrots Spinach
When the rains came in February I sowed any seeds I had
into the beds just to get something growing. These can be
called cover crops or green manures. The plants' root activity
helps to stimulate the soil biology, the roots help open up
the soil, and when the green plant matter is chopped into
the soil it helps to help build organic matter. I did this last
I also have lots of flowering plants scattered throughout the
garden. Self seeding plants like Cosmos, Cornflower, Pansy,
Poppy, Camomile & Marigold. Bees are essential for pollination
and having flowers of varying sizes & colours will help
attract beneficial insects. These little critters can aid in reducing
pests as well as pollinating the crops. The flowers
also can’t help but make you smile & brighten up a cloudy
day
Best wishes for a productive veggie garden season.

Girgarre Gazette June2020 page 6
New Industry reports
Girgarre Development Group May 26
Celebrating The Achievements of Our Town
ACM John Hommes reported that the company is very happy with site progress and that commissioning of the
cheese plant will commence in July with cheese production coming on line as planned in August.
Kitler Callum reported that weather had a large impact on tomatoes production- 100 hectares were able to be
harvested while an additional 15-20 were lost due to rain events. Although disappointed Callum stated that profit
was still able to have been realised, he also stated that direct drill tress planting of local endemic trees and shrubs
has commenced on Mason Road with 50 hectares planted last week and another 50 hectares expected to be planted
this week. Callum reported that barley has been planted under 1 pivot at this time.
Town News
Park Irrigation system Craig Rowden from the Campaspe Shire reported that the system to automatically water
park design phase is focused around underground power systems but now hopes for completion July/August – this
will not affect funding for this project
Girgarre Events Committee Lisa Smith reported that an event committee has been formed to activate the spaces
in Girgarre including the Gargarro sound shell and held its first meeting held via zoom last week. Great ideas
including cinema, music, fun runs, long lunches, jazz in the park.
Gargarro Doc McDonald reported that installation of lighting at the Sound shell has been delayed due to planning
issues with the shire but is progressing is being made.
Hall Committee Future structures of hall Committees. Sam Campi made contact re future structure of Hall Committee
as the government is disbanding section 86 ‘s as of the 1 st of September. Sam said that there was a choice
of 3 ways forward -Buy the hall, lease it or form Incorporated body – more information will be supplied to the
committee so that Girgarre can make its choice of how we proceed in the future.
Rec Reserve Greg Fitzpatrick reported that all is quite at the Rec Reserve with decisions being made shortly
re future of football / netball ‘s 2020 season.
Land Care Bernie Fitzpatrick reported that new Landcare registration is almost complete and that the seed to
direct drill the Rail Trail has been purchased.
Walking Track Sandra McDonald reported that slashing, and spraying where tree planting is to take place
along the walk is underway and that next section has been cleared of the old fence in readiness of the new post
being installed.
Web Page Lisa Smith reported that are working on updating the web page and that Irene Labbett has accepted
the position of web editor.
Kindergarten Sally Canny reported that Robyn form the kinder has produce a wonderful at home program for
the Girgarre kids and has developed a virtual visit to the kinder for prospective enrolments for 2021.
Moosic Muster it was reported that planning is underway for the 2021 muster. A total revision of the existing
program is underway to take into account changes forced onto muster committee due to the Cov19 outbreak.
These plans will include greater use of Gargarro and the Rec Reserve for workshops and concerts, as well as smaller
numbers for big jams and workshops sessions.
Market Plans for the relaunch of our market are well underway however a start date will be totally dependent
on Govt announcements re social distancing and cleaning regimes required to keep our stallholders, our volunteers
and our markets attendees safe. Sending out letter to all stall holders keeping them in the picture.
Jigarre Jammin – Irene Labbett reported that another very successful Jig Jammin was held using zoom. 50
attendees enjoyed some really good music as well as enjoying catching up with other attendees during breakouts.
Friends of the Gardens Bernie Ryan reported that the group had planted 270 trees at Gargarro.

Girgarre Gazette June2020 page 7
Year 12 VS Covid-19
Picture this. It’s October 2019 and the Class of 2019 has just had their final Year 12 assembly. We, the Class of
2020, were finally the ‘Seniors’ of the school. Of Kyabram P-12. We were entering our last year of school. Fast
forward to December 2019 and we have begun Flying Start: our head start into the next school year and we are
receiving our Year 12 Shirts. Almost like an initiation. It was official. We are year 12. And the memories begin. Only
there are no memories. Because school has barely begun. At least, not in the way we’d hoped. Not in the way
I’d hoped.
The start of 2020 was already pretty bad. The ‘forever fires’ seemed to have no end in sight as they burned across
the country, even attracting the assistance of American firefighters. Families and their homes were devastated by
fire. Then, as if 2020 couldn’t get any worse, someone in Wuhan, China ate a bat. Initially, it wasn’t seen as a big
deal. We only knew due to the fact that most of our products are from China. A virus was born. One we had never
seen before. At first named Coronavirus, it then changed to ‘Covid-19’. My year 12 was soon threatened.
Gradually, week by week, our freedom was taken away. First, social distancing came into place and the same
message over and over: ‘Stay 1.5m apart’. Then panic buying, causing local Safeway (Woolworths?) stores to employ
security guards. Then outdoor gatherings were taken, with a maximum number of people allowed. Then noone
allowed out. Then it happened. School was shut down and we were unsure when it would later again, if at
all. Teachers rushed to organise online learning, distributing phone numbers and emails, even allowing phones to
be used in class in order to punch in phone numbers or give teachers ours. Then, on the last Monday of Term 1,
we looked at our friends one last time. We heard the school bell ring, the final one for the day. But it was a different
feeling. For 13 years, we knew we would hear that same bell the next day. And the next. But that last Monday
of Term 1 left an eerie feeling in me. I couldn’t help but wonder if
that would be the last time I would walk out of the Kyabram P-12
College campus.
Online learning was introduced and it has been a struggle, I will
admit. It's been hard to motivate myself to do schoolwork in the
comfort of my own room. ‘Don’t fall behind’ my teachers would say.
I would try not to but it's too easy to simply end the class and turn
on the TV.
Covid-19 has been hard, socially and academically as well as
spiritually. As much as we wouldn’t admit it, school is important.
Not for education (well, that too) but for socialising. To see and
make friends. To laugh non-stop for as long as we wanted. This, to
my surprise, is one of my happier places. Because it’s a place where
I feel wanted and accepted outside of my family home. Where I can
be myself around my friends and do what I want.
In two weeks, we will return to school. In two weeks, I will see my
friends again. In two weeks, life will seem to be back on track, with
plenty of time left to make memories before the end of the year.
Katie Fletcher

Girgarre Gazette June2020 page 8
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 On hold The
Cottage.
SENIOR'S GROUP. Meet weekly for
outings or social events. On Meet hold 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 &
On hold
coffee.
Tai Chi with Ian Walshe positive. Classes
are at the Hall On Thursdays hold 10.30am,
$2.50 per session.
bath, high chair, walking sticks.
FREE PLAYGROUP Mondays 10am to
12pm. Held at the Girgarre On hold Kindergarten.
DONATE CLEAN DENIM Ros makes it
On hold
into quilts. Stains don't matter.
DONATE ITEMS TO HELP OTHERS
Spectacles , mobile phones, routers,
bras, baby items, mastectomy items,
cotton clothing On suitable hold for Fijian
climate www.upliftbras.org. Plastic lids
off soft drink bottles, juices and water
bottles for Envision.
BOOK SWAP Leave a On book hold and take
one. Free Service at the Cottage.
GIRGARRE (CAMPASPE) REGIONAL
LIBRARY Borrow a book, DVDs, talking
books - thousands of titles can be
ordered & delivered On to hold The Cottage.
Book online at
www.campaspe.vic.gov.au/library
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 MEMORIAL HALL HIRE .
Available for your next event. All bookings:
Phone The Cottage On 5854 hold 6482
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 On Tuesdays hold 6pm.
Phone Cottage 5854 6482. ($5 includes
a meal)
PLAY A UKULELE? - the J-Ukes meet on
the 1st, 3rd (and 5th) Wednesday in the
On hold
Cottage Utility room from 1.30 - 4pm
($2). All welcome.
ITEMS TO HIRE Specialty items
including shower chairs, walkers, porta
cots, child's car seat, wheel chair, baby
VOLUNTEERS WANTED. Teach a class,
join the committee or help out at the
nursery.
Monday , Tuesday and Wednesday take aways.
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.
Kyabram Club Keep up to date on FaceBook

Girgarre Gazette June2020 page 9
Cockadoodledoo!
The market and
chook auctions are
closed until further
notice. Watch FB
for updates.
Cluck!
HALL BOOKINGS
As you know, our well appointed and well used
Girgarre Memorial Hall
and Supper Room
are available for hire.
Contact
Girgarre Community Cottage
Ph: 5854 6482
Open Monday -Thursday 10am - 3pm
The Clinic at Stanhope
is closed during the lock down.
Stanhope Men’s Shed is closed until further notice.
Girgarre Fire Brigade
Despite what is happening with the Corona Virus,
the Girgarre Fire Brigade is still available for any
emergencies that may happen in our community.
Hygiene is extremely important to us and we will
endeavour to keep both you and us safe.
Please keep in mind that now the fire restrictions are
over, if you wish to avoid an unwanted visit from us,
you should register your burn off at
1800 668 511
Please phone
Kyabram Regional Clinic
5852 1888
if you need
medical assistance.

Girgarre Gazette June2020 page 10
CLASSIFIEDS & SERVICES
FRIENDS OF GARGARRO
CATERING AVAILABLE
Need catering for
a function?
Well, the Gargarro Gardens
Catering Team will be more
than happy to cater for your
needs depending on
numbers.
Phone Bernie Ryan for more
info if you are planning a
function.
Ph: 5857 2407
Mob: 0455 578 722

Girgarre Gazette June2020 page 11
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 0800
Email: admin@tongalaagedcare.com.au
“Care in a
Friendly
Town”

Girgarre Gazette June2020 page 12
Check out these local Facebook sites;
The Girgarre Gazette
If you have an event, story or pictures to share please contact us.
We would like to hear from all community members who have
something they think is a good idea, a funny anecdote or community
information or interest piece. If you require assistance in writing
your piece, please contact us on 5854 6482 or
girgarrenh@bigpond.com
Girgarre Community Cottage
Green Thumbs Nursery Girgarre
Girgarre Markets
Girgarre Patchworks and Quilters Group
The Girgarre Revival
Girgarre Football Club
Girgarre, Victoria
Girgarre Community Kinderdarten

Girgarre Gazette June2020 page 13
What?! You’re not on Facebook?
Do you get that a lot? Ok so not everyone is
on Facebook, but chances are a lot of your
friends are. There are many reasons why you
may not be a Facebook user, but we want to
make sure that one of them is not because you don’t know how to sign up or use it.
Many people use Facebook to stay connected to their family and friends. Being able
to share photos, videos with your friends is a fun way to engage with others especially
now during these very trying times where we may be feeling isolated.
In Facebook there are so many groups you can join where people can share information
and experiences. Examples of groups could be; a buy swap sell group – where
people can post items for sale in their local area; an interest group – like gardening,
food, dogs, conservation, motorbikes, lego; a support group –for people with different
health conditions….Really anything you are interested in or want information about,
there is probably a group for that, and if there isn’t, you can make one!
Facebook Live is another feature that is gaining popularity. It is where a user can
broadcast their content live to their followers. This could be anything from a live concert
by musicians, a dance class or a tutorial. Some of our courses at The Girgarre
Community Cottage will now be moving online, and many will be using the Facebook
Live feature.
So if you have been in two minds about signing up, maybe now’s the perfect time!
Don’t forget to like and follow us to see all our posts.
https://www.facebook.com/GirgarreCommunityCottage

Girgarre Gazette June2020 page 14
Downloading an App-Apple Iphone or Ipad

Girgarre Gazette June2020 page 15
Downloading an App-Android Phone or Tablet

Girgarre Gazette June2020 page 16
THE FOUR PILLARS OF GIRGARRE
WHO WE ARE
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.
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.
Sport
The Girgarre Recreation Reserve
The Girgarre Football Netball Club
The Girgarre Tennis Club
The Girgarre Cricket Club
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 as well as in print to over 400 people via the
Girgarre Post Office. It is also available at: Rob Varcoe’s shop,
228 Allan St Kyabram; Nanneella Store, Rushworth & District
Community Bank; Stanhope and is published on the Girgarre
Website. wwwgirgarre.com.au
The Gazette is produced for the benefit of the wider
Girgarre community by the Girgarre Community Group Inc.
(The Cottage).
Join our email list! Drop us a line
EMAIL: girgarregazette@yahoo.com.au
Advertising
Advertising space is available.
Contact the Cottage or the
Gazette for details.
The items published and the views expressed in this publication are those
of the contributors, and not necessarily those of the Editor or the
publisher of the Gazette

Girgarre Gazette June2020 page 17
Group Name Details Contact name Contact number
The Girgarre Community Group Inc. President Duncan Rodrick 0427 391 706
The Girgarre Community Cottage
3rd Monday 7pm
Coordinator Kezia Talbot 5854 6482
0404 686 3444
Girgarre Seniors Tuesdays 10:45am Debra Stelzer 5854 6482
Words on Wheels
Girgarre Cottage
Discuss chosen books
3rd Tuesdays 6pm
Carol Ohlin 5854 6371
Girgarre Green Thumbs Nursery Nursery Sales Carol/Loraine W Carol 5854 6371
Girgarre Open Garden Committee Open Garden Festival Loraine Warde 58546236/0438 546 237
Girgarre Playgroup 0-5 years
Monday 10-12pm,
Jigarre Ukulele (J-Ukes)
1st & 3rd Wed (5th) 1:30pm
Girgarre Kindergarten
Begins 2nd week of terms
Play/learn with others
Girgarre Cottage
Bernie Smith 5854 6482
Lyn Cosham 5859 0297
Girgarre Patchwork Quilters
Fridays 9:30am
Quilters and sewing group
Memorial Hall
Nola Marke 5854 8226
Girgarre Line Dancers
Thursdays 2pm $7
Carpet Bowls-Thursdays 7:15pm April
to August
Memorial Hall Gloria Atkins 0400 539 778
All ages.
Memorial Hall
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
1st Tuesdays 7pm. Feb-Nov
Girgarre Country Fire Authority
1st Monday 7:30pm
Stanhope/Girgarre Lions Club
2nd Wednesday 7pm
President
RSL Club Room
Captain
CFA Meeting Room
President
Stanhope Hotel
Laurie Young 0429 009 515
5854 6303
Maree Gadzinski 5854 6264
Avis Weller 5854 6383
Girgarre Community Church
Sundays 9:30am
Christian Church Ron Gregory 5854 6382
Stanhope and District Men’s Shed
Mon, Wed, Fri. 9am-12
Have fun and create.
3 Tivey Rd. Stanhope
Des Crichton 0457 300 321
Girgarre Memorial Hall Committee Memorial Hall Dennis Hammond 04112 1260
Girgarre Development Group (DGD)
Last Tuesday, Jan-Nov 7:30pm
Girgarre Improvements
Memorial Hall
Jan Smith 5854 6283
Gargarro Project Gargarro Botanic Gardens Athol McDonald 5854 6324
Friends of Gargarro Garden -
working Bee 4th Sunday of month
Chairperson Bernie Ryan 5857 2407
Girgarre Craft Market
2nd Sundays. 8:30-12
Bookings/enquiries Carol Ohlin 5854 6371
Girgarre Farmer’s Market Bookings/enquiries Jan Smith 5854 6283
Jigarre Jammers. Feb to Nov
4th Saturday 10:30-4pm $2
Acoustic Music Irene Labbett 0429 149 246
Girgarre Living History
Book title “Girgarre”
Record of local history
Athol McDonald
Jenny Wadelton
5854 6324
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
Secretary
Josh Maudsley
Fiona Smith
0400 546 766
0408 502 274

Girgarre Gazette June2020 page 18

Girgarre Gazette June2020 page 19
HAVE YOU HEARD OF THE FIRST HOME LOAN DEPOSIT SCHEME?
The Rushworth & District Community Bank are participating in the First Home Loan Deposit Scheme which
is available for eligible customers until June 2022. There are currently many scheme places still available
and the branch has helped several first home buyers into their home. We encourage anyone contemplating
the purchase of their first home to contact Nikki McKay at the Rushworth branch for a confidential
chat. You may be closer than you think to home ownership.
The Scheme, which will provide support for up to 10,000 first home loan guarantees for eligible first home
buyers each financial year, aims to help first home buyers purchase a home faster.
“Home ownership is a great way for people to build equity for their future which at the same time helps
stimulate community prosperity and economic growth, something that stems back to the role Bendigo
Bank played in enabling home ownership during Victoria’s goldrush era. We welcome the opportunity to
participate in the Scheme and commend the initiative as a great first start for the many prospective buyers
who may have thought home ownership wasn’t achievable in the near term,” said Bendigo and Adelaide
Bank Managing Director, Marnie Baker.
Bendigo and Adelaide Bank has a proven history in supporting affordable housing initiatives to help Australians
obtain their own home including partnerships with HomesVic, Keystart, HomeShare Housing and
Homesafe.
“As Australia’s fifth largest and only regionally-headquartered large bank, we have deep connections with
communities right across the country and we aim to play our part in supporting applications from eligible
first home buyers to help strengthen and underpin the economic security of the nation”, Ms Baker concluded.
In support of the Scheme and Bendigo Bank’s commitment to its customers, the Bank will not charge eligible
customers higher interest rates than equivalent customers outside of the Scheme.
Under the First Home Loan Deposit Scheme, eligible borrowers will also be able to access the assistance in
conjunction with other government programs such as the First Home Super Saver Scheme, state and territory
First Home Owner Grants and stamp duty concessions.
Interested First Home Loan Deposit Scheme applicants can contact
the Rushworth & District Community Bank on 5856 2122 speak
with Nikki McKay or visit www.nhfic.gov.au/what-we-do/fhlds/
eligibility/ for more information.

Girgarre Gazette June2020 page 20
Landcare and Trees for Mum
For the last 5 years Goulburn Murray Landcare Network has
taken part in Shepparton’s Mothers Day Classic run and handed
out local native plants as part of the Trees for Mum initiative.
Last year Girgarre Community Cottage joined us by giving plants
away at their event. Unfortunately this year these wonderful
community events could not take place due to the current
health protective measures. That won’t stop us planting a plant
in honour of our special Mums though. GMLN have provided
plants to Girgarre Community Cottage which they can pot up &
grow on for use at The Gargarro
Gardens.
DON’T FORGET YOUR FRIENDS DURING
SOCIAL ISOLATION WILL YOU?
It’s important to stay connected with
friends and family at this time to reduce
feelings of loneliness and isolation
ESPECIALLY FOR THOSE LIVING ALONE.
A friendly phone call for a chat doesn’t take
long. Even a card or note will be appreciated.
If you need professional help phone
Lifeline - 13 11 14
Beyond Blue - 1300 22 4636
Kids Helpline - 1800 55 1800
or kidshelpline.com.au
https://www.dhhs.vic.gov.au/
coronavirus-covid-19-daily-update
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

Girgarre Gazette June2020 page 21
Giragrre CFA News
Due to the Covid 19 pandemic and it now
being winter, we are a bit light on for news.
So we will take this time to remind you to
check your
heaters as the ad on the previous
page outlines.
Though we are not actively training or
participating in social events we are still
accepting volunteers.
We have partnered with The Cottage to
sponsor a colouring in competition for our
local children. There are some great prises
up for grabs. Kids can colour in one or both
of the Captain Koala pictures ( you may like
to photocopy and/or enlarge) and send
them in to The Cottage (PO Box 35,
Girgarre) or drop them off (27 Olympic
Street) Please have them in by the end of
July, something to do over the school holidays
and winners will be announced in the
August edition of the Gazette.

Girgarre Gazette June2020 page 22
Girgarre Primary School
Principal Peter Caldow
All students at Girgarre Primary returned
on Tuesday 26 th May after a
long, long break due to Covid
19. Our school community had been
participating in remote learning ,
with weekly planning and instruction posted each Monday,
outlining the weeks expectations. Many parents took up the
challenge, and challenge it was. So families soon opted for
hard packs of the week’s work, internet connectivity was an
issue in some households. But overall, we are pleased with
the efforts of families to continue their child’s education. So
now we are all back, with the school being cleaned thoroughly
twice a day. Girgarre is fortunate to have a computer
for each child and these also made their way home during
the lockdown.
Girgarre welcomes Dean and Jade and Alyssa to our school.
Planning remotely was a massive change to procedure but our staff passed with flying colours. We were also
fortunate to have ES staff, Nina and Deb, manage supervision for those children who did their remote learning
on site.
Our school had the asbestos removed from our eaves during the break so is now an asbestos free environment.
Girgarre Community Kindergarten
To keep updated on all Kinder information
Find us on Facebook
Girgarre Community Kindergarten

Girgarre Gazette June2020 page 23
Girgarre Post Office and Newsagency
Due to Victoria’s strict restrictions, Covid-19 has affected
our business and community greatly, as well as our
peace of mind. At the beginning of March, all of us still
felt secure. The kids were still going to school, thankfully,
and most people still had their jobs. When Victoria’s
State of Emergency was declared, that all changed.
Suddenly, Term 1 was cut short and it was announced
that kids would be learning from home for an indefinite
amount of time, allowing you all to see Katie and Ben
more frequently than usual.
Covid has forced us to change our hours for a number
of reasons and unfortunately, one of them will stick.
Due to lack of business on Saturdays, we have decided
that weekends will be completely ours and this will be
a permanent change. If something changes, we will be
sure to let you know. During the pandemic, we also
made the decision to close the shop for one hour between
12-1pm in order to eat our lunch without having
to wash our hands every 2 minutes. This was removed
on Monday 25 th May, which means our normal trading
hours will be in place. Monday to Friday: 9:00am to
5:00pm.
We have also had to implement social distancing, as
bizarre as it sounds. This means that a maximum of
four people will be allowed in the shop at any one time
in order to keep the 1.5m between all our customers.
This is to ensure your health and ours. Yellow tape
strips have been placed on the floor to mark this so
please ensure you follow these to the best of your ability.
This will be taken away when social distancing restrictions
lift across Victoria. To assist with this, Australia
Post has requested that our family be the ones to
sign for your parcels to avoid contamination of the
scanners and keypad. This is to ensure everyone, including
us, is protected that little bit more.
Parcels have also been coming in quickly, making this
time of isolation even busier than Christmas. This
means parcels have been lying around everywhere and
on Monday 11 th May, we ran out of space in the shop,
so some had to be placed in our house. This is why
some of you may have witnessed us leaving the shop
once you gave us your parcel card. This has all been
cleared by Coco though, so don’t worry.
To support our vulnerable community members, we
made the offer to deliver some essential goods such as
milk and bread when it was needed. This was to keep
everyone safe, as healthy as possible and away from
possible contact with the virus.
Lastly, Sandy has been doing her best to keep the shop
as clean as possible by wiping down every surface after
people have been in, in order to kill as many bacteria as
possible. This has added to her stress levels, so if any
of you have seen her a bit frazzled, know it’s for the
best reasons possible.
We would like to thank everyone for their ongoing support
through these trying times. Soon, the kids will be
back at school full time and it will seem as though life is
getting back to normal. Remember, we still have a long
way to go yet so don’t let down your guards too
quickly.
Thank you,
Barry, Sandy, Katie, Ben, and Coco.
During the Covid-19 virus restrictions, the Post Office will not be open on Saturdays.

Girgarre Gazette June2020 page 24