May 2025 Girgarre Gazette

MAY 2025 FREE GIRGARRE GAZETTE

GIRGARRE

GAZETTE

MAY 2025

A Proud History -

the Appaloosa

also

INSIDE

It was Wicked!

Pg. 12

New sections

Local events Pgs. 7 & 13

Hello Neighbour Pg. 11

MAY 2025 FREE GIRGARRE GAZETTE 2

A Proud History:

The American Appaloosa

When he was just five years old, the gift of a horse

from his grandfather proved to be a spark that lit a

fire in the belly of John Kemp, local Girgarre Dijon

Appaloosa and Quarter Horse stud breeder.

That fire still burns bright today. ‘I won my first

ribbon at the Kyabram show on Nipper,’ he said. ‘That

was the catalyst for my life-long passion for the

horses I’ve had for more than forty years. I was a

professional photographer throughout the 1970s and

’80s,’ he went on. ‘I travelled all around the world and

to places in Europe as diverse as Poland, Russia and in

the UK - where I photographed Charles and Diana’s

wedding - but the horses were always there to come

home to.’

Since their retirement to Girgarre twenty-two

years ago, involvement in the local community and

developing the stud has kept both John and his wife

Diana fully occupied. They joined the Kyabram

Horticultural and Agricultural Show committee and

ran the animal nursery at the Kyabram show for many

years. Their love of the proud Appaloosa and its

equally colourful history has also led them to be

valued members of the Appaloosa Association of

Australia. John is a current board member and the

regional representative for Victoria. He was also show

manager for the recent Victorian Appaloosa

Championships, held in Tatura on April 19 and 20. The

Kemps won three events at the championships,

including the Most Colourful category with six-monthold

‘Dijon Man of the Moment’ (or ‘Henry’ as he is

affectionately known, pictured below). Diana is

equally involved in the Association, using her creative

skills to produce up to twenty flower-studded

garlands for winners at Appaloosa shows across the

country.

Appaloosas are strong and versatile animals

with an even temperament, known for the beautiful

markings that distinguish them from other spotted

horses. Their unique coats come in colours of bay,

black, palomino or chestnut. Significantly, they also

Continued on page 3

ABOVE: John Kemp with Dijon, Man of the Moment


The American Appaloosa, continued from page 2

have spotted skin and striped hooves, and unusually

for horses, the ‘sclera’, the white of the eyes, show.

The Kemps breed Appaloosas for their strength

and robustness, out-crossing with a stud quarter

horse stallion for added muscle, making them handy

animals at rodeos where they are used as

‘breakaway’ and ‘hazing’ horses during rodeo roping

competitions. As John says, Appaloosas are good allrounders,

their even temperament making them

suitable for many types of sporting events –

everything from formal dressage to riding for

pleasure.

The Trail of Tears.

The Appaloosa is a truly American horse with an

interesting back-story. The development of the breed

and its later demise is now embedded in American

folklore. It was initially bred from the original Spanish

mustangs by the Indigenous Nez Perce people of the

Pacific Northwest. Careful selection developed a

horse with endurance over the long distances and

the rough terrain of the tribes’ nomadic lifestyle. The

Nez Perce were also adept traders, and the

Appaloosa became a sought-after stock horse as

white settlers began to move in. Eventually however,

as history has shown, migration into Native American

territory resulted in skirmishes and wars and a push

to move the Indigenous tribes off their traditional

land and onto designated reservations. A treaty was

reached with the Nez Perce in 1855 but was soon

broken. The tribes were being pressured by the US

government to give up some of the promised land.

It was then the ‘Trail of Tears’, as it is now

known, began. Resisting the push, a band of seven

hundred folk including warriors, women, children

and elders, loaded the resilient Appaloosas with

people and possessions and set out for Canada

where they could settle and continue their traditional

lifestyle. Crossing hostile country, fighting along the

way, they evaded the US 7th Cavalry of some 2,000

men for fourteen months and 1,883 kms. Exhausted,

starving and ill, their chief, Joseph, surrendered in

Montana, a short 64 kilometres from the Canadian

border.

Herded as prisoners-of-war onto reservations

in mosquito-ridden Oklahoma rather than to the

promised broad and clean country of Idaho, their

horses were confiscated, auctioned off, or shot –

although the story goes that some were smuggled to

the UK. It was not until 1884 that a remnant 268 Nez

Perce people were finally able to go back to Idaho,

where today they have re-established themselves as

a self-determining people, successful as farmers and

settlers. A story of survival for the people but almost

not for the Appaloosas.

All was not lost however, earlier in the 20th

century, a group of American horse lovers recognised

the cultural and historical value of the Appaloosa,

especially to the Nez Perce. They diligently set out to

foster and promote the breed, culminating in the

establishment of the Appaloosa Horse Club in1938.

The Appaloosa today is one of the most popular

breeds in America and the Nez Perce have been

honoured by the naming of the Nez Perce National

Historic Trail, the route across the four states they

used to evade capture.

Thanks to the stewardship of dedicated horse

lovers like John and Diana, the Appaloosa has not

only survived the onslaught of history but thrived

and is now spread across the world.

~Irene Labbett

ABOVE: Diana Kemp holding the

some of the beautiful garlands she

crafts for the championship

winners


Jigarre Jammin’ Camp weekend -

music, music, music!

Happy Campers

Despite a damp start on Friday,

enthusiastic musicians and

friends from interstate and all

over Victoria gathered in Girgarre

on the weekend of April 25 -27.

Autumn is a pleasant time

of year and the April camp, the

first of the two annual gettogethers

always attracts a large

crowd. These weekends are loved

for their relaxed atmosphere

combined with a program of just

enough organised events to make

it fun. The weekend is geared

towards casual jamming around

the camps. It was nice to hear the

music wafting around the park.

A Kazoo workshop was a

highlight this year and it takes no

time at all to fill up the board for

an open mic walk-up. Places in

the popular Out of the Hat bands

were eagerly sought after.

Random groups, along with their

designated leader rehearsed for

an hour or two Saturday

afternoon then performed their

chosen piece first up at the

Saturday evening concert. The

concerts concluded with two

great acts in Beyond the Sea and

Clueless Experts.

On Sunday morning the

rousing old-time gospel singing

spilled out onto the street

bringing a fabulous weekend to a

close.

Jigarre Jammin’s next

weekend camp over will be held

on September 19-21.

~Irene Labbett

Below left: Glenda from

Shepparton, a regular at the

camp weekends and open

mics.

Below right. Many of the

campers had mini jam sessions

under their tents.

More pictures on page 6.


Tidbits...

Mark the date - 26 October 2025

Girgarre Open Gardens Festival - A

Garden Party with a Difference.

High Tea within Bonshaw Estate’s

stunning gardens, with multiple

artists, musicians, flora demonstrations

and antique displays.

Want more info? Visit Facebook.

https://www.facebook.com/share/1DsBxBdmXL/

Want to receive a

digital copy of

the Gazette?

T: 0414 860 080

girgarregazette@yahoo.com.au


Jigarre Camp weekend cont. from page 4.

For the love of music

Jigarre Jammin style!


Campaspe Shire - May events

HTTPS://WWW.CAMPASPE.VIC.GOV.AU/RECREATION-EVENTS/EVENTS

Here is a taste of some of the events in our district in May. Click on the

link above for information and other events, or visit their website.

GIRGARRE FARMERS' PRODUCE AND CRAFT MARKET

Next date: Sunday, 11 May 2025 | 08:00 AM to 12:01 PM. Girgarre Farmers' Produce and Craft Market is held

on the second Sunday of each month in Progress Park Reserve, on the corner of Winter Road and Station

Street. Our market is a great family-friendly day out. Relax and listen to live music while you enjoy an egg-andbacon

roll, free tea or coffee, or sample from the many and varied food stalls. Girgarre’s famous fresh orange

juice, pressed onsite, is a must-try! With up to 120 stalls, the Girgarre Market provides visitors and locals with

the chance to sample the finest produce from the Goulburn Valley region alongside a range of artisan

goods, arts and crafts. The market's focus is on small seasonal producers, with stalls showcasing primary produce

and prepared food and beverages.

GETTING MARRIED? If so, on May 4 the Echuca Moama Wedding and Events Festival may be of interest to

you. It will be held at the Echuca Race Course on Scott Road, showcasing an array of the regions finest wedding

and event professionals that country Victoria has to offer. Kids' entertainment throughout the day, food and

drinks also available. Sunday, 04 May 2025 | 10:00 AM - 03:00 PM

KYABRAM BOCCE CLUB PASTA NIGHT - Next date: Tuesday, 06 May 2025 | 05:30 PM. The next Pasta Night

will be held on Tuesday, 6 May for Mother's Day. Meal available from 7pm. Meal consists of entree, choice of

pasta dishes, plus dessert. Cash prize raffle, plus other prizes on the night. Reservations are to be made by Sunday,

4 May to either Lucy on 5852 2838, Carmel on 5853 2769 or Joe 0419 157 605. Kyabram Italian Social Bocce

Club, 118 Fischer street, Kyabram. Cost: Adult $25. Child under 15 years $18.

ECHUCA COUNTRY MUSIC

Next date: Sunday, 18 May 2025 | 12:01 PM to 05:00 PM at Tongala Town Hall. Enjoy the entertainment of the

monthly guest artist and of our wonderful band, which includes

Stanhope guitarist Glenn Bowker. All guests please note: No Alcohol permitted at the venue, BYO all food & nibbles;

door prize, nifty fifty and normal raffles, Tea/Coffee available- gold coin donation. Event Times: Spring/

Summer/Autumn- (September-May) 12noon - 5pm Winter- (June-August) 11am - 4pm.

WALK-UP ARTISTS WELCOME.

FALCON HOTEL OPEN MIC FIRST SUNDAY OF THE MONTH

Next date 4 May | 1:30 PM Bring your instrument, play a song, recite a poem, tell a tall tale….the stage is yours!

Murray Valley Highway, Kanyapella. Please book if you are dining (03) 5859 2304

ALL THINGS WILLS, POWERS OF ATTORNEY AND SUCCESSION PLANNING with staff from Dawes and

Vary Riordan. You’ll learn firsthand about wills and succession planning, allowing you to ensure your family and

wealth are safeguarded and your desires are respected. Free! For bookings: Phone: 5481 2400

Email: libraries@campaspe.vic.gov.au Tongala Library - Tuesday, 20 May 10.30am Echuca Library - Tuesday, 20

May 1pm Kyabram Library - Tuesday, 20 May 1pm Rochester Library - Wednesday, 21 May 10.30am Rushworth

Library - Thursday, 22 May 10.30am


Bebbington family reunion

DESCENDANTS of Joseph and Edith

Bebbington met for a family reunion in

Girgarre from all over the state and also

travelling from interstate. There were

about 80 to 90 people that attended for a

catered lunch in the Girgarre Hall. Families

represented three generations, all

stemming from Joseph Bebbington.

Family members then wandered over to

the cenotaph to reflect on the family’s

involvement with the Girgarre

community.

Joseph was born in Cheshire

England and served with the British

Imperial Army. He came to Victoria under

the Migrant Settlement Scheme and took

over a 55 acre block of land on Winter

Road Girgarre in 1925 with their seven

children – Evelyn, Bevis, Kenneth,

Dorothy, Joyce, Arthur and Eric with twins

Olwyn and Trevor, and Brian being born at

Girgarre.

The Spencer family from Stanhope

attended with Marianne being a

descendant from Evelyn. The organiser of

the event was Vance Bebbington from the

western district descendant from Bevis.

2025 Biggest Morning tea

Friends of Gargarro will hold their Biggest Morning Tea in the Girgarre Hall supper room

on Wednesday 21 May at 10 am. Gold coin donation, plant auction, raffles and lots of

fun! Call Loraine for more detail 0438 546 237

Support our local advertisers

Here is a list of the businesses that make it possible for us to bring you the Gazette.

Please check out their advertisements in this edition.

· Bendigo Bank

· Biomix

· Clean Edge

· Dunstalls

· Fab Flowers

· Forbes & Summers

· Gargarro Café

· GV Hire

· GV Water

· Judy Campbell Celebrant

· Girgarre PO Newsagency

· Kyabram Garden Supplies

· Kyabram Club

· Kyabram Town Hall

· Lily’s Cleaning

· Mat Langley Electrical

· Nampara Catering

· Rochester Tyres and

Batteries

· Sakurai Beauty

and Massage

· Shepparton

Workwear & Safety

· Friends of Gargarro

Catering


For more information on the Kyabram Town Hall Writers’ Group view Facebook or

the KTH website: kyabramtownhall.com.au or contact directly through kyabramwritersgroup@gmail.com


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


Getting to know...Greg Fitzpatrick

In this fun new section, we are introducing our neighbours to each other. Greg is

Vice Chair of the Girgarre Development Group and President of the Girgarre

Community Group. I sat down with him to learn a little more about the man!

GREG grew up on a wheat and sheep farm out in

Charlton, the eldest of eight children. He considers

that his parents shaped and influenced so much of

who he is today.

In 2002, Greg and his wife, Bernadette found

themselves looking for a new beginning.

Bernadette came from a dairy background, and

together they began the search for a dairy

property. That journey brought them here, to this

patch of land they now call home. For 35 years,

Greg and Bernadette worked as dairy farmers but

just recently, they sold their milkers and shifted to

grazing cows, especially shorthorn crosses. It’s a

new chapter, one that comes with the prospect of

more leisure time - something Greg is quietly

excited about.

Greg considers that being his own boss has

always been one of the most rewarding parts of

the job. No one telling him what to do - just the

land, the animals, and the decisions Bernadette

and he make together. Still, there's always

something to work toward. Even now, as they step

into a more relaxed phase of life, he finds himself

energised by projects around the property and by

his interest in community life in

Girgarre.

This has been home for over two decades

now. When Greg first arrived, the Moosic Muster

was just getting started, and the farmer’s market

was a modest affair. Today, he has watched it all

grow. Girgarre is what he likes to call a "can-do"

town. He considers there is a spark here - people

stepping up, making things happen. That said, if he

could change one thing, it

would be to get more

people involved. The

potential is there and it’s

something he is

passionate about - this

community. He says that

he has been lucky to be

part of groups like APEX,

where he is proud to be a

life member. Service,

connection and a shared purpose, all means a

lot to him.

When Greg is not working or involved in

town projects, you’ll likely find him enjoying a

quiet weekend at home or at the Stanhope

Bowling Club - his favourite local spot. He likes his

downtime to be simple. A good weekend? Just a

bit of leisure time. Maybe some Roy Orbison

playing in the background, though, truth be told,

his music taste is pretty eclectic. His family is all

involved in music and he plays the

piano.

If someone was to ask how his friends would

describe him, he doesn’t know how they would

answer. He doesn’t really worry much about that -

he just goes about his business, doing the best he

can - that’s been his motto for as long as he can

remember.

And if he could have dinner with anyone?

He’d gather his grandparents and his mother to

reminisce.

~ Claire Roberts


It was wicked!

Seventy-four came along to see the movie

Wicked. The weather was perfect for an outdoor

event at the Girgarre Sound Shell. Thanks

to the Campaspe for hosting this lovely event.


Glenn’s Cottage Catch-up

Monthly Reflection - May 2025

THIS month I would like to talk about the Girgarre

Seniors and our Community Meals. The Seniors

meets every Tuesday for an activity at the Cottage or

an outing. The most recent being a trip to the

Mooroopna Golf Club for entertainment and lunch

which was thoroughly enjoyed by all members.

Members arrange a car pool to travel to the outings.

In house activities include Words on Wheels

and Games including OSMO using IPads. A fabulous

lunch is provided as well. For further details contact

Debra Stelzer at the Cottage on 5854 6482.

Community Meals are cooked every

Wednesday at the Cottage and distributed where

needed to give relief when required and a friendly

chat. If you know of someone in our local community

who could benefit from this service please contact

the Cottage. Here is what one of our recipients took

time to write to our Cooks.

“Thank you for the wonderful meals we receive

each week. We really appreciate the excellent variety

and the home cooking makes all the difference. PS The

banana cake last week was fabulous – more please!”

The Cottage also operates a Food Pantry available

to those in need or need a little bit of help with the

necessities of life. We receive food from our partner

Food Share Bendigo every fortnight and other donations

are welcome as well.

New Coordinator for the Girgarre Cottage – at the

time of writing we are well advanced in recruiting your

new Coordinator at the Cottage and hopefully in next

months edition there will be an announcement

regarding the successful person.

Girgarre Cottage - May events

Neighbourhood House Week - Ripples of change

12 - 18 May

Please check out the special activities that are being run during

this week at other Neighbourhood Houses in Rochester, Tongala,

Rushworth, Echuca, Lockington and Kyabram.

Volunteer Week 19-25 May

We can always use extra hands at the Cottage whether it be driving,

gardening , cooking or helping at the front desk. If you would

like to volunteer please contact us on 5854 6482.

Girgarre Market cheese stall - Girgarre Cottage partnership

Sunday 11 May 2025


Group Name Details Contact name Contact number

The Girgarre Community Group Inc. President Greg Fitzpatrick 0400 296 602

The Girgarre Community Cottage

Interim Manager

Mon-Thursday 10-3pm

Glenn McCormack 5854 6482

Girgarre Seniors Tuesdays 10:45am Debra Stelzer 5854 6482

Words on Wheels

Girgarre Cottage

Discuss chosen books

1st Tuesday 11am

The Cottage 5854 6482

Gargarro Green Thumbs Nursery Nursery Sales Loraine Warde 0438 546 237

Girgarre Open Garden Committee Open Garden Festival Loraine Warde 58546236 / 0438 546 237

Girgarre Playgroup 0-5 years

Monday 10-12pm,

Located Girgarre Kindergarten.

Begins 2nd week of

Danielle Holmes 5854 6482

Jigarre Ukulele (J-Ukes)

Girgarre Patchwork-Quilters

Fridays 9:30am

Supper Room, Memorial

Hall $3

Quilters and sewing group

Memorial Hall $3 p/session

Lyn Cosham 5859 0297

Nola Williams 0438 552 546

Girgarre Line Dancers

Thursdays 2pm $7

Girgarre-Stanhope Land Protection

Group

Memorial Hall Gloria Atkins 0400 539 778

Secretary

Bernadette

Fitzpatrick

0458 576 917

Girgarre Community Kindergarten Lead Educators Emily & Kerrie 5854 6368

Girgarre Primary School Principal Ashleigh Buckland 5854 6275

Girgarre Returned Services League

1st Tuesdays 7pm. Feb-Nov

Girgarre Country Fire Authority

1st Monday 7:30pm

President

RSL Club Room

Captain

CFA Meeting Room

Gary Kitt 0458 548 224

kittbagg@hotmail.com

Shaun Halls 0487 740 001

Girgarre Community Caravan for hire Contact Avis Weller Avis Weller 5854 6383

Girgarre Community Church

Sundays 9:30am

Christian Church Chris Smith 0410 001 381

Stanhope and District Men’s Shed

Mon, Wed, Fri. 9am-12pm

Have fun and create.

3 Tivey Rd. Stanhope

Merv Andrew 0457 300 321

Girgarre Facilities Committee

Girgarre Memorial Hall

Girgarre Recreational Reserve

Memorial Hall (Bookings)

Recreation Reserve

Jenny Bassett

Darren Butler

0427 522 816

0427 546 332

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 Loraine Warde 58546236

0438 546 237

Girgarre Craft Market

2nd Sundays. 8:30-12

Bookings/enquiries Jan Smith 5854 6283

Girgarre Farmer’s Market Bookings/enquiries Jan Smith 5854 6283

Jigarre Jammers. Feb to Nov

4th Saturday 10:30-4pm $5

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 Football/Netball Club President Daniel Arnold 0400 214 693

Girgarre Cricket Club President Mick Coyne 0488 296 566

Girgarre Tennis Club

President

Secretary

Jason Saunders

Fiona Smith

0400 299 942

0408 502 274


Cottage Services

Cottage Hours

the Cottage to discuss.

Local Classifieds

Would you like to donate to the Cottage?

For more information on the Kyabram Town Hall Writers’ Group view Facebook or

the KTH website: kyabramtownhall.com.au or contact directly through kyabramwritersgroup@gmail.com


Football Netball Club

SEASON 2025 has started strong. Despite initial losses

to Murchison-Toolamba in football, our teams showed

resilience, with only a gap of 5 goals at halftime in the

seniors. Their hard work at training paid off with an 84-

point win against Merrigum in round 2. The reserves

also improved from a 5-goal loss against Murchison to

a 16-goal victory. Our thirds are making great progress

too.

Netball has seen a fantastic start, with our A grade

girls securing two big wins. Every senior squad remains

unbeaten after two rounds, with only one netball game

lost across all eight juniors and seniors teams.

April featured two major events. Firstly, the Suburban

Footballer comedy night was a hilarious show

enjoyed by everyone who attended. Tom Siegert is one

of the finest comedians playing the crowd and didn’t

we give him some subject matter!! Dazza, Shazza, Billabong,

Poodle, Krust-Dog, Harry the Vet, and the J-Train

all got a mention. The Ball will also have been held by

the time of publication, (updates and photos will be in

the next edition).

Coming up in May we have our first junior function,

the Junior Disco on Friday 16 th May, an all-time

favourite the iPod shuffle on 24 th May and the mystery

bus trip after the Longwood game on 31 st May.

We welcome any newcomers to join us at training,

especially for our Thirds (under 18) team. Training

runs Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6pm. For Thirds

players, contact Simon Tomasini on 0428142829 for

more details.

Deb Turpin and Mark Summers coordinate our

sponsorship. Individuals or businesses interested in

sponsoring our club, no matter the size, your support is

always welcome and much appreciated. Please email

girgarrefnc@outlook.com for information regarding

our Sponsorship Packages and to discuss your interest.

Come and support our club. Join us to show your support

at a game on Saturday and enjoy a meal in the

clubrooms afterwards.

Stay informed about events by visiting our Facebook

page Girgarre Football Netball Club.


HOE’S TYPE REVOLVING MACHINE

Life of an editor of a small newspaper

In 1845 and 1846, the firm of R. Hoe

& Co. were busily engaged upon

plans and inventions for presses

which should meet the increased

requirements of the newspapers in

America. The result was the

construction of a printing press

known as the "Lightning" or "Hoe

Type Revolving Machine," (pictured)

embodying patents taken out by

Richard March Hoe, son of the

founder, Robert Hoe. There is a lot of

information about this online if you

would like to read

on.

https://letterpressprinting.com.au/

page57.htm

How different is this to

printing today! As editor of this little

paper, all I need is a decent computer

and access to a couple of programs.

I’m self-taught with graphic creation,

but I have access to some wonderful

free online resources which makes

my life easier, but although this

paper is only 24 pages, it is still timeconsuming

putting the Gazette

together each month.

Then of course, there is the

printing and folding of the Gazette.

Interim Cottage Manager, Glenn

McCormack and I have been handson,

along with office admin Sue and

the volunteers at the Cottage,

printing, folding and compiling,

addressing envelopes for posting and

delivering to the local outlets that

kindly distribute the paper each

month.

For me, this is one of the most

satisfying volunteer jobs I do - it

allows me to be creative and

connected with the district - I have

only lived here for two and a half

years - so I am relatively new in

town. However, prior to moving to

Stanhope, I was assisting my sister,

Irene Labbett, who is a major

contributor to the paper, with the

Gazette by creating the

advertisements and, some years ago,

the front covers from my desk in

Wollongong NSW, so I already had

the feel of the town. My husband and

I had also come to the Moosic Muster

and performed on a couple of

occasions and have been visiting the

district for over 20 years.

I hope to bring you something

new and interesting each month. A

special thanks to Irene Labbett, a

major contributor to the Gazette.

Would you like to contribute articles,

photos or events relevant to our

district? Please feel free to email

girgarregazette@yahoo.com.au or

call me on 0414 860 080. In addition,

I am happy to revamp your ads to

make them fresh and interesting. I

am happy to liaise with you.

Looking forward to assisting you

in any way I can.

~Claire Roberts

Missed a copy? Scan the code...

MARCH

APRIL

Contact us if you would like to be on the email list girgarregazette@yahoo.com.au. Never miss an issue!


W

O

R

D

Newspaper Theme - The remaining letters spell a secret word

Word of the

month:

Abrogate

Cancel or revoke

S

E

A

R

C

H

Recipe of the month - simple apple slice

INGREDIENTS

· 2 cups self-raising flour

· 1 cup sugar (or substitute-I used ¾ cup monk fruit

sweetener)

· 3 apples peeled, diced and cored, (or two and

chopped dried apricots).

· 125 grams butter

· 1 large egg

· Water if needed

· 1 teaspoon cinnamon or to taste

(Extra monk fruit sugar & cinnamon-optional)

Original MouthofMums.com.au with some adjustments from a local

contributor. Do you want to share your favourite recipe?

Email girgarregazette@yahoo.com.au

METHOD

1. Preheat oven to 180 degrees. Grease a lamington

slice tin. Toss apples with the self- raising flour and sugar

& cinnamon in a medium bowl.

2. Melt the butter on low heat. Let it cool slightly and

add the lightly beaten egg. Pour the butter and egg into

the apple mixture and mix it until well combined. (I added

a little water). Scoop it into the tin and level the top.

3. Sprinkle with a little extra sugar and cinnamon if liked

Bake for 35-40 mins until golden brown on top and the

apples are soft.


Anzac Day Dawn Service in Girgarre

Zara McKenzie (right) and Roxanne Clark (left) participated

in the Girgarre ANZAC Day Dawn Service on 25 April,

lowering the flags to half-mast and placing a wreath on

behalf of our school community.

A big thank-you to the girls' families, to Naomi Van

Steeg and her daughter Billie for preparing the beautiful

wreath. and to the Girgarre RSL Sub-branch for inviting our

student leaders to participate.

Stanhope news & services


Fairley Leadership Program

Future Leaders in Training -

Leading to Positive Change??

Local leaders, farmers, producers and a large group of

young leaders of the future, studying under the Fairley

Leadership program gathered in Girgarre on Wednesday

26 March for a comprehensive leadership training day

that explored pressing challenges in agriculture,

sustainable farming practices, and community resilience.

The day began with a farm tour led by Angus 'Gus'

McDonald, a third-generation dairy farmer in Girgarre,

who offered an in-depth look into the challenges

farmers face in today’s economic climate. Gus

highlighted the ongoing struggles with water scarcity,

the rising costs of milk production, and the aging

demographic of farm owners. "Climate change and

water efficiency are major factors influencing our

operations," Gus said, adding that younger generations

often struggle to stay in the industry due to the financial

and environmental pressures. However, he remained

optimistic, pointing to innovations such as automated

irrigation and the growing role of technology in

improving farm operations.

The next session, held at the Girgarre Memorial

Hall, focused on youth involvement in dairy and

agriculture. Andrew Murphy, a dairy farmer and chair of

the Central Dairy Business Network, and Craig Emmett, a

fourth-generation dairy farmer, discussed strategies to

attract younger people into the sector. "If you are

passionate and care about it, then do it," Craig advised,

urging attendees to look past common stigmas

surrounding the long hours and low pay often associated

with the industry.

Warren Davies, known as the "Unbreakable

Farmer" and a passionate mental health advocate, led a

session on wellbeing in regional communities. "Sharing

stories creates role models," Warren noted, stressing

the importance of opening up about mental health

issues in rural areas. With one in five Australians

struggling with mental health, he encouraged

participants to actively support one another and seek

help when needed. His personal journey from a dairy

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Fairley Leadership program from page 20

farmer to a mental health advocate resonated deeply

with the audience, highlighting the often-overlooked

emotional challenges in farming life.

Later, attendees toured the Fonterra Factory in

Stanhope, where they learned about the company’s

state-of-the-art facilities and sustainability efforts. Matt

Trevaskis, a Fairley Fellow, provided insight into

Fonterra’s commitment to environmental stewardship,

such as their wastewater desalination plant that

supports a circular economy. "We take pride in

supporting our local community through sponsorships

and grants, ensuring that both the business and the

region thrive," Matt explained.

The training day also featured a visit to the

wonderful Gargarro Café and Botanical Gardens, where

Doc McDonald, the 2025 Campaspe Shire Citizen of the

Year, shared the journey behind the town’s successful

community-driven projects. "Never underestimate

networking," Doc remarked, reflecting on the power of

community collaboration in bringing sustainable projects

to life. Local dairy farmer and teacher Jan Smith echoed

the sentiment, emphasising the town’s commitment to

building a strong, interconnected community through

initiatives like the Girgarre Market and the annual music

festival.

Concluding the day, Adrian Weston, a former

dairy farmer and current Campaspe Shire Councillor, led

a session on leadership in water infrastructure. “If you

want to bring people together, light a fire,” Adrian said,

encouraging leaders to stay true to their values and

work collaboratively to address the region’s water

challenges.

The Campaspe Place Based Program Day,

Sponsored by Gardiner Foundation, proved to be an

enriching experience for all who attended, offering a

blend of practical advice, inspiring stories, and realworld

solutions to the challenges facing agriculture and

regional communities. As the day concluded,

participants left with a renewed sense of purpose and a

deeper understanding of the importance of leadership in

driving change, both within their businesses and the

local community.

Media Contact: Kimberley Chu

Email: info@gmcl.org.au T:0455 996 562

Above: Leaders of the future gathered at McDonald’s.


Election time! Hope you remember to vote

With the Federal elections looming, here is a look back at our Prime Ministers since

federation in 1901. If you get a chance to go to the Botanical Gardens in Ballarat, you will see

busts of many of them in the Prime Ministers’ Avenue.

Edmund Barton (1901–03)

Alfred Deakin (1903–04; 1905–08; 1909–10)

John Christian Watson (1904)

George Houston Reid (1904–05)

Andrew Fisher (1908–09; 1910–13; 914–15)

Joseph Cook (1913–14)

William Morris Hughes (1915–16; 1916–23)

Stanley Melbourne Bruce (1923–29)

James Henry Scullin (1929–32)

Joseph Aloysius Lyons (1932–39)

Earle Page (1939)

Robert Gordon Menzies (1939–40; 1940–41;

1949–66)

Arthur William Fadden (1941)

John Curtin (1941–45)

Francis Michael Forde (1945)

Joseph Benedict Chifley (1945–49)

Harold Holt (1966–67)

John McEwen (1967–68)

John Grey Gorton (1968–71)

William McMahon (1971–72)

Gough Whitlam (1972–75)

Malcolm Fraser (1975–83)

Robert Hawke (1983–91)

Paul Keating (1991–96)

John Howard (1996–2007)

Kevin Rudd (2007–10; 2013)

Julia Gillard (2010–13)

Tony Abbott (2013–15)

Malcolm Turnbull (2015–18)

Scott Morrison (2018–22)

Anthony Albanese (2022– )

Above: Prime Ministers’ Avenue.

Photo: Ballarat Courier


Scam watch https://www.scamwatch.gov.au/

BACKGROUND

Australians have lost more money to

social media scams than any other

contact method so far in 2024,

according to Scamwatch reports. Over

6,000 people reported losing $58.3

million to social media scams in the first

10 months of 2024.

Scammers use fake or hijacked

profiles on social media, messaging

platforms and apps to steal money and

personal information. Scammers will

also try investment scams, romance

scams and job and employment scams

using social media.

The National Anti-Scam Centre is

constantly working to reduce scams.

We’re leading a job scam fusion cell to

coordinate government and industry

efforts to crack down on job and

employment scams. In the last 3

months the fusion cell has taken down

over 200 job scam websites.

HOW TO SPOT THE SCAM

Scammers use social media

to steal your money. They do this

by:

· offering a way to make quick, easy

money with little risk or effort

· advertising a job that requires

payment for training or access to

work tasks

· inviting you to enter a competition

or limited time offer

· saying they will buy something

you're selling for a high price

without seeing it first

· selling items for much lower prices

than usual or compared to other

sites

· saying they live overseas and can’t

meet you in person.

HOW THE SCAM WORKS

You are contacted on social media or

messaged by someone you don’t

already know. The scammer pretends

to be a friend or romantic interest, a

financial advisor, or a business offering

an employment opportunity.

They learn a lot about you from

what you share on social media and

deceive you into sharing personal

information, which they then use to

target you in other scams.

WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW

There are simple steps you can

take to help avoid social media scams:

· Make sure the person is who they

say they are. Research profiles to

see how long they have been

online, how many followers they

have, and what kind of activity they

have.

· Be careful if anyone makes a job

offer without an interview.

Research the recruiter or agency

making the offer.

· Research any investment

opportunity fully.

Never send any money or personal

details to someone you have only met

online.

STAY PROTECTED

STOP – Don't send money or hand

over personal information to anyone

you have only met online. Always

remember, if a deal or an offer

appears too good to be true, then it

probably is! Be wary if you are offered

employment without an interview or if

a prospective employer asks you to

pay for training or access to work

tasks.

CHECK – Research the recruiter and

the business or individual offering the

position. Beware of fake social media

profiles. Always check how long a

social media account has been active,

how many friends or followers they

have and how much activity they have

had online, such as posts and photos.

A lack of history, detail and followers

can be a sign of a fake profile.

PROTECT – Report any suspicious

contact or activity to Scamwatch

immediately. Your report will help

protect others. And if you do lose

money to a scam, you should contact

your bank or financial institution as

soon as possible.

IF YOU’VE BEEN AFFECTED

If you’ve been the victim of a

scam, don't be embarrassed. It can

happen to anybody. If you have given

your personal information

call IDCARE on 1800 595 160.

When you report the scam, the people

who read your report understand how

you are feeling. You are not alone.

Contacting support services can help

you understand what happened but

also tells authorities about scam

activities so they can work on making

it harder for scams to succeed.

Help others by reporting scams

to Scamwatch.

Disclaimer: 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.


May 2025 Girgarre Gazette

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