Briefly Noted

FARMING AND MENTAL HEALTH

Fruit Growers Victoria’s Cars, Coffee and Chat event at MOVE, on Thursday, September 26, was a success. Jack Bartels (right) of Sumitomo Chemical talked about the methodology for chemical thinning to improve the efficacy and efficiency of crop space and crop output.

The Unbreakable Farmer Warren Davies (left), touched on a subject a little harder but far more important, not only for farmers and growers but for all men in the community. He spoke about the impact on men’s mental health in communities, how many men and farmers commit suicide, and the flow-on effect for every member of their family and community.

This is a timely reminder for anyone in the community who is struggling with daily life, to reach out to friends, family and support organisations and ask for help.

DRUMMOND ROAD DRAINAGE

Greater Shepparton City Council is currently finalising preparations to commence the Drummond Road Drainage Upgrade works. The area was identified for urgent improvements as part of Council’s 2020 Drainage Strategy, with a focus on addressing stormwater issues that have affected the community and creating a plan to prevent future flooding at the key intersection.

The upgrade will involve installing new drainage pipes, stormwater pits, concrete kerbing, and resurfacing sections of road. Construction will start at the intersection of Drummond Road and Joseph Baldwin Place, continuing north along Drummond Road and extending 200 metres east on New Dookie Road.

To facilitate safe construction, the northbound traffic lane of Drummond Road will be closed between Joseph Baldwin Place and New Dookie Road from next Monday 30 September 2024 until the works are complete. The New Dookie Road and Drummond Road intersection will be managed by traffic controllers as required, with delays to be expected.

DISABILITY SUPPORT GROUP

Intereach is calling on parents and carers of children with disability or developmental concerns to express interest in joining a new support group in the Shepparton region.

This will be a family-led Care and Share Support Group that will bring together like-minded people to foster connection, encouragement and support. Intereach can support establishing the group, to empower local parents and carers to design and continue the ongoing facilitation of the group.

If you are interested in joining a Care and Share Support Group, fill out an online expression of interest form at https://forms.office.com/r/nGevxnT808 or email codie.edmunds@intereach.com.au

ANNUAL PUBLIC ROSARY

St Brendan’s Parish is holding its annual public rosary at the church gardens on Saturday, October 12, at 10.30am.

The prayerful social gathering will be followed by a cuppa in the MPJC. BYO a share plate, chair, rug, cushion, hat and reading glasses for your comfort. Prayers and thanksgivings to Our Lady will be forwarded by Australia Needs Fatima in Portugal. All are welcome to attend.

LOCAL CATTLE PARADER TAKES OUT SECOND PLACE

Katamatite 17-year-old Sienna Ross (right) and her cow Flake took out second place behind South Australian Lucy Newman (left) in the National Dairy Cattle Young Paraders Championship, at the Melbourne Royal Show last week.

“Flake was my first ever show cow and what started my love for cows. Wouldn’t be the handler I am today without my girl,” said Sienna.

REGIONAL WATER SATISFACTION SURVEY

Goulburn Valley residents are invited to share their feedback as part of an annual customer satisfaction survey, to enhance the water and sewerage services provided to the community. A sample of customers will receive an email and be asked to complete a brief survey to share their thoughts on satisfaction with water and sewerage services.

Organisations aim to gather feedback from over two thousand customers across the seven participating water corporations.

To encourage participation, each corporation is offering customers the chance to win one of ten $100 bill credits for those who complete the survey before 6pm Sunday, October 13. Winners will be announced by each water corporation after the survey closes in early November 2024.

For those eager to provide feedback and potentially win a $100 bill credit, the survey will also be made accessible on Goulburn Valley Water’s website from 2 October 2024.