84 April 2020 Merrijig community Newsletter

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Merrijig Community Newsletter April 2020
INDEX
Quote and FYI 2 Calendar 3
99 year lease on McC Park 4 Hall roof sprinklers 6
Scott’s Speckled Wins 7 Kind offer to help in covid 7
Finally retired to Jig & CFA 8 Anzac Day 9
Bondi to the Baltic Book launch 10 Energy hug cancelled 11
FYI on Covid-19 11 If you are out and about THINK 13
Alex’s Dad Jokes 14 Grocery delivery to Merrrijig 15
Merrijig Hall News 16 McCormack Mount Valley Rides 17
Tru Blu Rides 18 Ideas while social distancing 18
Food strategy cancelled 20 Goulburn Valley Water 20
Tree sale by appointment 22 A Word from the Shire 23
Helen Haines on Telehealth 24 Helen Haines on Job Keep 25
Final Laugh 26
Photo by Kate Parsons “Sunset from Glenroy Road”
Please send in some of your beaut photos for future issues
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QuoteS of the month
I couldn’t just pick one this month as they are
both appropriate to this period of time and they
are both the same colour too.
*Emily Maroutian is an award-winning writer,
poet, and philosopher. She has authored several
bestselling books within the fields of personal
development and philosophy. She has studied
both subjects for over a decade, developing a
notable ability of simplifying complicated concepts and turning them into useful resources for self-improvement and
healing.
Back issues of the newsletters can be viewed on the web at http://www.merrijig.com.au/html/local_news.html
Some articles in this newsletter may be picked up by the Mansfield Courier so consider this if you are
submitting stories you could be sensitive about sharing with the community wider than Merrijig.
If you‟re looking for a Justice of the Peace,
Laurie Jacob, Buttercup Rd 0439 280 333
Catherine McNish, Sawmill Settlement 0429 482 309
Merrijig Defibrillators are located at Merrijig Motor Inn
& McCormack Park
The procedure in case of an emergency where a person is possibly having a heart
attack is to dial Triple Zero. The call takers at Triple Zero have the location of the
Merrijig AED registered and will advise the caller of its location if that is the closest
unit to your location. McCormack Park unit is located in the machinery shed of the
Motorbike Track. If it is the Merrijig Motor Inn should be contacted by phone.
The Motor Inn phone number is 5777 5702.
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◄ March April 2020 May ►
Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat
1 2 Rubbish 3 4
Live Radio Play
Postponed
5
Open Mic Cancelled
Day light Saving
ENDS
Turn clocks back
1hr
6 7 8 9 Rubbish & Recycling 10
Good Friday
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12
Easter Sunday
13 14 Bush poets
Cancelled
15 16 Rubbish 17 18
Trivia at the Pub
Cancelled
19
Open Mic Cancelled
20 21 22 Launch of Book
Bondi to the Baltic
Possibly Cancelled
23 Rubbish &
Recycling
24 25
ANZAC DAY Cancelled
please remember and
respect our service men
and women in your own
way.
26 27 28 Trivia at the
Pub Cancelled
29 30 Rubbish
Day light
saving ends turn clocks
back 1 hr.
。◕‿ ◕。
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99 year Lease given to
McCormack Park
Grounds Management Committee inc.
At the 43 rd Merrijig Rodeo, the 16 th held on Bally Patrick – the property of (the late Cyril and now)
Adele McCormack, Adele handed over a long planned for, 99 year lease on the area now officially
known as McCormack Park. In her address to the record breaking crowd she said……
“McCormack Park was so named to honour all the generations of McCormacks descended from John
and Frances who since moving to Merrijig in 1866, have continuously done their bit to build and
improve the communities they live in.
John was one who applied to the State government to have a school in Merrijig, and so began
McCormack’s involvement in building the community,
The branch living in Merrijig came from son #1 Peter, whose wife Mary was the teacher at Merrijig
School for 20 years. He was the grandfather of Peter, Eddie and Cyril who some of you would
remember and recall all they did for their communities. Those in Mansfield, who are almost
continuously involved in the Show Society amongst other things, come from Peter’s brother Mick, as
he was known back in the day. Margaret, their sister, married a fella named Egan, so all the Egans
and their contributions to our district are also appreciated with the naming of McCormack Park.
On McCormack Park Grounds Management Committee there are several McCormack family
members - President Bruce McCormack, Secretary is his sister Jan Nelson, Jack McCormack and
Jason Egan are also on the committee. So the McCormack work on improving the community
continues.
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The future looks good for this community contribution to continue with the children of Jack and Rhyll
McCormack, 3 X great grandchildren of John and Frances who already are active in community
events such as taking part in the ceremonies at the Merrijig Five Pines War and Service Memorial on
Anzac and Remembrance Days.
The site was chosen by Helena Simkin, who is still involved with Merrijig Rodeo and Grounds
committee, when the search for a new home for the Rodeo was on, my late husband Cyril invited
Rodeo committee members to check out the front paddocks for a possible site. Cyril had been an
original Rodeo committee member and always supported the Merrijig Rodeo.
Helena could immediately see the benefits of the way the land lay and could visualise the magic of
the sunset behind the mountains as a bonus to spectators. The community got behind the
development of the NEW
Rodeo grounds and did
earth moving work to create
a flat arena, sponsored
fence panels, delivered
clean fill to fix other areas,
most of this preparation
work was done free of
charge or at the cost of
machinery use.
Buildings were erected by
volunteers and electric
wiring was installed at cost
price by local electricians.
Photo by Jane Jordan
Then Merrijig Campdraft was born and they also worked on improving the site, enlarging the arena
area and improving the fencing, supplying stock water and enlarging some buildings as did Rodeo as
income improved.
The mountain Cattlemen contributed to the Improvements at McCormack Park when they held their
first event on the site much to the delight of all their patrons. This continued with their second event
and would have for their third if it were not for the recent fires.
McCormack Park Grounds Management Committee has representatives of each user group as well
as interested members of the community; they are an enthusiastic group who look forward to seeing
the asset improve even further.
In conclusion - McCormack Park has developed due to the work of the community who want to have
an outdoor activity area in Merrijig, This has not gone unnoticed. The area has been surveyed and
covers 7 1/2 acres.
At this stage, Shire restrictions forbid subdivisions smaller than 100 acres. For now I am happy to
hand over the unencumbered lease to the Management committee for the next 99 years.
The community built this asset – now effectively the community owns it.”
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☻ ☺웃 유
Roof sprinklers for Hall
Merrijig‟s Neighbourhood Safer Place, the Merrijig Public Hall, has recently been fitted with roof
sprinklers, an added benefit should it be needed.
The sprinklers were carefully installed by a very community minded Chris Southgate of Pumptech
Irrigation Mansfield. Sincere thanks to Chris for his work to make the hall an even safer place in
Merrijig.
A Neighbourhood Safer Place is a place of last resort to be used in an emergency when all other
options have failed.
Merrijig Hall cancellations
Due to the current public health crisis it has been decided to cancel the weekly gathering of
Merrijig Muscle Group usually held on Tuesdays.
On Thursdays each week the Merrijig Stitching Group meets and this too has been cancelled
until further notice. Both cancellations apply immediately.
You are urged to stay home in an effort to curb the rapid spread of COVID-19.
March 23, 2020
☾♒✮ ☄☁☄☼☁☼☄☁☄✮ ♒☽
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Scotty’s Speckle Park Studs
Some great news following the recent story about Scott Purcell
entering the world of Speckle Park cattle.
Scott‟s first stud purchase of his Speckle Park cow won the Reserve Champion Cow
at the Goulburn Valley Beef Festival!
Then his little bull received several encouraging comments from the judge yet he didn‟t win a place.
Scott said, “All the other bulls were double his age and size.”
“It was a great opportunity to learn, both for myself and my cattle. I benefitted a lot,” Scott continued.
“It was a good day, looking at quality cattle and meeting people with similar interests!”
のあ 。◕‿ ◕。 あの
Mary Dunn of Bluegum Ridge in Merrijig said “ I have been thinking that if there are folk who do not
wish to go to shops or may need to get to appointments etc, I would be more than willing to assist if I
am able to, in these difficult times.”
Very thoughtful Mary went on to say, “Especially for the elderly and those who may have health
issues and do not want to go near the shops.”
Mary can be contacted on Ph: 0437 374 001
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Retired to Merrijig …. Finally
Eliza Foster, a long time non-residential member of the Merrijig community, has now been able to
establish herself as a retiree in the most beautiful part of Victoria.
Eliza happily reported, “I have been accepted as a member of the
shop "Made in Mansfield", now that I'm spending half my time
here, and my beautiful handmade shopping tote bags are now on
sale in the shop for $12 each, also I'm doing sets of 4 „produce‟
bags (to use instead of plastic bags for beans, tomatoes, fruits
etc) for $15 per set of 4 mesh bags.” She encourages people to
“Take a look in the shop window next time you're in Mansfield...
there are also more bags inside the shop.”
Eliza began creating these alternatives to plastic before she
moved to Merrijig on a more permanent basis. She had hoped to
set up a sewing group to make them which she may still
endeavour to do if she can stimulate some interest in the activity.
“If on average, people are using just four plastic bags a week,”
Eliza estimates, “that's over 200 plastic bags a year.” She went
on to say, “The population of Mansfield is around 5000. That's a MILLION plastic bags EACH YEAR
to the tip JUST in Mansfield!”
Now we all know that this environmentally friendly alternative to plastic bags is now available in
Mansfield, instigated by a Merrijigger, think of purchasing your next bag from Made in
Mansfield. Eliza went on to say,”The shop is filled with other beautiful locally made items that are
worth a look-see.”
Become Par t Of
THE MERRIJIG FIRE BRIGADE.
Local s At Work As CFA Vol unt eers
to be included on the new facebook page and
instagram.
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MErrijig’s ANZAC DAy sErviCE
The Merrijig Public Hall Committee, as the sponsors and organizers of the Merrijig Services of
Remembrance, have taken advice and consulted widely, regarding the conduct of our Anzac Day
Service this year.
We have reluctantly decided that in the interests
of community health and safety, to cancel our
usual Service and Gunfire Breakfast at the
Merrijig War and Service Memorial (the Five
Pines Memorial).
We ask for your understanding. If you wish to pay
private respects at any time, the Merrijig War and
Service Memorial is your place, as always.
Des Dunn
President
Merrijig Public Hall Committee
ѧѦ ѧ ( ( ( Ѧѧ ( ( ѧ Ѧ o ( ѦѦ ѧ
People are asked to remember with respect those who have represented
Australia and served in fields of war and peace-keeping operations.
As we currently fight a different world war.
Stay safe and healthy while you honour those who served.
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“Yep, I‟ve written a book about my trip by vintage car to Finland in 2014-15.” Said John McCombe.
John gave a slide show in the Merrijig Hall after his return, and some of his adventures were “You
wouldn‟t read about it!” But now you can. He‟s recorded it all in his book described above.
John went on to say “If the COVID-19 emergency stops us from going ahead with the launch on 22
April you might want to help pass the time in your self-isolation and social distancing by reading the
book. You can buy it at the bookshop or online at Wild Dingo Press:”
https://www.wilddingopress.com.au/product/bondi-to-the-baltic/
“You can read a lot about it at https://bonditothebaltic.com/ ”
John concluded saying “Otherwise we might see you on the 22 nd .”
d(^o^)b
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Community Energy Hub
Roadshow Due to COVID-19
Indigo Power has cancelled all public Community
Energy Hub Roadshow events due to COVID-19.
The 14 event Roadshow will be replaced with a series of webinars.
“Our first priority is the health and safety of our community and for that reason we have decided to cancel the
remaining 11 public Roadshow events across the region,” Indigo Power Managing Director, Ben McGowan
said.
“This has a large impact on our business, but was the only choice considering the current circumstances. We
will host a series of webinars over the next few weeks instead of town hall events to ensure our community
knows how to join their local electricity provider.
“It has been a devastating period for businesses across our region, first because of the bushfires and now due
to coronavirus. We encourage everyone to support your local businesses, whether it is shopping from your
local High Street shops, buying local produce, or getting your electricity from your local energy provider.
Indigo Power is currently raising funds to roll out renewable energy projects and energy hubs across the
region. You can find our more at www.birchal.com/company/indigopower
--
Cambell Klose
Communications and Engagement - Indigo Power -t 0490 436 948- e cam@indigopower.com.au
The Coronavirus has caused great panic for some people, while
others will keep themselves as healthy as possible and carry on
as normally as they possibly can.
Source: World Health Organization
Symptoms ….. People may experience:
Runny nose
Sore throat
Cough
Fever
Pneumonia
Difficulty breathing (severe cases)
Consult a doctor for medical advice
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Wash your hands frequently
Maintain social distancing
Avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth
Practice respiratory hygiene (cover your mouth if coughing or sneezing)
If you have fever, cough and difficulty breathing, seek medical care early
Stay informed and follow advice given by your healthcare provider
PLEASE NOTE
Unless there is a report from the Department of Health or the Mansfield Shire regarding the incidence
of COVID-19 locally no posts will be put up on Facebook or the internet unless backed up with
credible evidence and source accuracy.
Everything else will be treated as rumour.
Rumours and false reports cause panic and anxiety which compound the problems.
The Mansfield Shire will post credible accurate information as soon as they receive it,
but common sense must prevail and not let rumours run rampant.
For accurate responsible updates and advice the best source is
http://www.dhhs.vic.gov.au/coronavirus
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This graph has been taken from ABC News Global virus spread info.
https://www.abc.net.au/news/2020-03-26/coronavirus-covid19-global-spread-dataexplained/12089028
This is a very clearly written and easily understood informative piece showing the rate of spread
throughout the world and how in some countries early intervention and lockdowns has turned the
virus climb downwards.
In a nut shell - It appears from this information we are on the right track but as the incubation period is
so long we will not know until 14 days from the beginning of social isolation whether it has worked or
not. If not more restrictions on movement will need to be implemented.
Early testing is a key factor; S Korea brought in drive through testing and is testing 20k people per
day. Italy did not bring in social distancing early or strictly enough other than in the town of Vo where
a significant downturn has been reported. American President suggesting it will all be over by Easter
has been debunked, this is not going to happen particularly in America where they are not enforcing
social distancing as well as they could.
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What you need to think about if you do venture out and about
Every surface you touch could have been touched by a carrier of the virus.
Keep that in mind. The ATM touch screen, the lift button, the traffic light button. The pay and go unit
at the supermarket and fuel pump handles all are areas where the virus could be waiting for
unsuspecting fingers to touch, enabling the spread of the virus around Australia.
https://www.news.com.au/news/cash-petrol-pumps-touch-screens-all-the-items-off-limits-to-avoidvirus/news-story/5a559f52979ff049d19f15bd188ae303
For more information on this topic check out the link above.
In this article, a fellow suggests carrying a AA battery to press buttons, a cousin of mine carries an
icecream stick in his pocket for the same purpose.
It would be a precaution to Glen 20 all your surfaces at home, including your keyboard and phone
screen.
https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0/#inbox/FMfcgxwHMZHnHQfNWctTqWNXMRtbWtTq?projector=1
Link above is to a short video (5 min) from reliable sources explaining how the virus works.
Good luck to everyone to stay clear of this indiscriminate virus.
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Once we are through this our world will be different. So many new ideas have come out already
solving problems and creating solutions where we hadn‟t previously noticed we had a hassle.
From every disaster affecting the whole country the changes necessary have brought progress and
improvements. Each World War created progress on levels previously never thought of but necessity,
as they say, is the mother of invention and it is working again already with this world change.
We have learned that being dependant on supply from outside Australia is not ideal. Re-vamping
some manufacturing businesses to provide what cannot be supplied from overseas is already
happening. People who worked in a crowded telephone room are now working from home with a lap
top wired into the company‟s system. People whose jobs have ceased are being quickly retrained to
fill gaps where demand is now higher. So, as shocking and as inconvenient this is at present what lies
ahead could be a very stimulating learning curve.
Aussies are resilient and inventive; it‟s exciting in a way wondering what life in Australia will be like
when this is under control.
Hang in there, we will soon know if social isolation has made the difference we hope it has.
Alex’s Dad Jokes … Groan !!!
I don't like how shopping centres are so similar.
You see one, you've seen a mall.
I hate telling people I'm a taxidermist.
When they ask, "So, what do you do for a living?"
I just say, "Oh, you know... stuff."
Why shouldn't you write with an unsharpened
pencil?
It’s pointless.
Can we stop making
jokes about the Corona
virus?
I'm getting sick of it
I lost my mood ring
this morning
… I don’t really know
how I feel about that
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Grocery orders - on line ~ deliveries to Merrijig
If you want to have as little contact with people at the moment you can order your groceries on line at
both Mansfield Foodworks and Mansfield Super IGA supermarkets.
The Foodworks link
is: www.foodworksmansfield.com.au They deliver to
Merrijig on Wednesdays and Fridays between 12 noon and
4 pm.
You need to order by 8 am on the day or do it the day
before. The delivery charge is $5 per box. You can choose to have your order delivered or pick it up
from the store.
A message on Foodworks website states:
Dear Customers:
Over the few weeks, there has been an unprecedented demand for certain grocery items. To ensure that as many customers as
possible have access to everyday necessities, the following purchase limits have been put in place
One item per person
- 1 Dozen Eggs
- Flour
- Sugar
- Dry Rice
Two items per person
- Pasta
- Pasta Sauce
- Frozen Vegetables
- Oats
- Toilet Paper
- Paper Towel
- Paper Tissues
- Canned Baked Beans & Spaghetti
- Tinned Tomatoes
- Liquor Stock
- Hand Sanitizers
- Baby Wipes
- Nappies
- Vinegar
3 items per person
- Bread Products
4 litres per person
- Long Life Milk
- Fresh Milk
As the situation develops, there may also be more limits introduced as needed.
Further to this, due to stock supply issues, we will be substituting items that we cannot source for similar items to the product
ordered. We will do our best to choose a similarly priced item.
We thank you for your understanding
Mansfield Foodworks
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The Mansfield IGA link is: www.marksiga.com.au They deliver Monday, Wednesday and Fridays from
midday.
Attention Customers!!! COVID-19 - Deliveries
From 25/3/2020
Your order needs to be in by lunchtime the day before. The delivery charge
is $6.60 per box. You can choose to have your order delivered or to pick it
up from the store.
A message on Marks‟ website states:
We will ring you just prior to drop off (We will message if you do not answer)
We will leave your delivery on your front veranda/doorstep (or elsewhere if you have noted this
when placing your order)
The goods are then your responsibility.
We cannot guarantee that it will be delivered in the specified times
There may be numerous shortages
We are doing our best to meet all our customer’s needs.
✌⊂(✰‿✰)つ✌
MERRIJIG PUBLIC HALL
Inc: A0044750H - ABN 38 089 428 861
Steve and Greg Marks
Press Release ~ COVID-19
Regrettably, the three community fundraising events held annually at Merrijig Public Hall,
have been cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
This means
The Trivia night planned for May 23,
The Family Movie Night on July 25 and
The Merrijig/CFA FireReady Supper Dance
scheduled for October 10
will not go ahead this year.
Residents are urged to be advised by government statements regarding what you can and
can‟t do. A good link to keep you informed about what self-isolation means and what your
responsibilities are can be found at:
https://www.health.gov.au/news/health-alerts/novel-coronavirus-2019-ncov-health-alert/how-to-protectyourself-and-others-from-coronavirus-covid-19/self-isolation-self-quarantine-for-coronavirus-covid-19
Louise Jacob, Secretary,
Merrijig Public Hall Committee
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McCormacks Mountain Valley Trail Rides
Looks like we are getting an extended holiday….
So 2020 can ride itself up to Hells Window and jump off the edge never to be seen again!!!!
We are well past our “Bad things happen in 3’s“
We are on round TWO
Unfortunately, we have made the hard decision this
morning to postpone all our rides until the end of
this season.
We have made this decision to protect Ourselves,
Our staff and YOU our Valued Guests.
Our decision is supported by the advice given by the
Australian government and medical experts on the Covid-19.
The future is unknown to all of us but we are hopeful that we will be back and ready to go for season 2020-2021
in November 2020.
We have tried to email all our current guests but as our bad luck continues, the computer failed a few weeks ago
and we have lost back up of emails…. Lucky Deb is old school and we have the diary and printed off booking
forms for all Guests payments and info to date.
Please bear with us as we try and get through all of this (we still getting over the fires) if you haven’t heard
from us please contact us deb@mountainvalleytrailrides.com.au or 0428573708
If you want to book in for next season, it’s going to be a busy one, head to our website to check out the next
season schedule www.mountainvalleytrailrides.com.au
We would like to thank all our guest for your understanding at this time, especially the ones who got postponed
from fires and now again… but we can’t wait to show you our back yard next season.
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Don’t forget to turn the clocks back on Saturday
night as Day light Saving Ends on Sunday morning at
2am
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Tru Blu Trails has unfortunately
all upcoming
rides as of 25/3/2020
Due to the Covid-19 outbreak and advice from our government all remaining rides this ride season will be
postponed until 2020/21 ride season. After taking a big hit with recent bushfires closing us down this is a
big blow to our business and income. Our priority is the care and welfare of our amazing horses.
We will be contacting all guests that have upcoming
rides over next day or so or we can be contacted on
0409 019 412.
We will get through this and be open for business next
season. We may even look at doing some winter
woolies snow rides if circumstances allow us. These are
going to be very hard times for a lot of people
including us, but tomorrow the sun will rise again and
we will push forward, that’s what we do.
Our Next season’s schedule will be out shortly and will
be offered to those that have had rides postponed
first.
We have some exciting new rides next season and we believe it will book out fast as we have already
booked out many of our popular rides with private bookings.
Stay safe everyone and we hope to see you on the other side of this mess.
Cheers Corey and Meg
Tru Blu Trails.
SOME IDEAS FOR KEEPING BUSY while social distancing:
* A friendly call by phone to your elderly or vulnerable neighbours helps them feel less
isolated and you may be able to help with a shopping delivery to their door.
* Prepare the garden for winter, weed and mulch the beds, trim the plants that have
become overgrown during the spring and summer.
* Sort through all your old photos (prints) from years ago - date and ID them before you forget where
and when they were taken. Scan them and make a photo book to preserve your memories and
holidays. Do the same to your digital photos.
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* Write down your early memories of your childhood for your children to cherish. Chat with your older
family members to record their memories from their childhood.
* Explore your family ancestors - Research the previous generations of both sides of your family. It‟s
fascinating and you might find some surprising facts.
* Pretend you are moving house and clean out each room one at a time. Mansfield Buy, Swap, Sell
might be a good outlet for your unwanted belongings if you have a Facebook account. If they are
saleable and in good condition and you don‟t have an account, you may want to donate these goods
to the Merrijig Hall. They could be listed on the hall‟s site with Buy, Swap, Sell which would help
with fundraising for the hall.
* Read the books you‟ve had for ages and never made the time to read.
* Go for a walk or cycle obviously observing social distancing rules.
* Importantly keep in touch with your family and friends.
* Have a flu shot - now available for those over 65 years.
* Consider joining your Neighbourhood through the app Next Door.
There are already a lot of people using this app.
Unconfirmed information
on the Mansfield virus case
- yet from a reliable source but still only hearsay
……. is that the one confirmed case in Mansfield is a person who has returned from a trip
Overseas who followed all the correct directions and had been self-isolating until they became
too ill to remain at home.
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Another
cancellation
meantime.
Owing to the escalating coronavirus pandemic, it is
with enormous regret that I am writing to inform you
that next week‟s scheduled event in Wangaratta
with Jake Claro has been postponed. Our event
partners are committed to bringing Jake to Australia
and he has confirmed availability for February 2021.
We will confirm the re-scheduled event in the next
few months and are keen to continue the
conversation around strong food systems in the
Thank you to the many people who had already purchased tickets - we were on our way to selling
out. Tickets will be fully refunded, including all Eventbrite fees.
Sustain: The Australian Food Network is a non-profit organisation supporting healthier and more
sustainable food systems. Sustain has incurred substantial costs planning and organising Jake‟s tour.
If you are able, we would invite you to consider making a tax deductible donation to Sustain and / or
becoming a member to support this important work.
If you would like to find out more about Sustain's work, we would invite you to read Sustain's 2019
Annual Report https://www.sustain.org.au/sustain-2019-annual-report/. Sustain Australia‟s media
statement about this postponement can be found here.
If you have any questions or would like any further information, please feel free to contact Dr Nick
Rose (Sustain Executive Director M: 0414 497 819) or Peter Kenyon on the number below.
Best wishes,Peter Kenyon, On behalf of the North East Local Food Strategy working group -M: 0439
975 311- E peterfkenyon@me.com
GVW continues to deliver safe and reliable services
24 March 2020
Goulburn Valley Water is reassuring customers that their water supply or quality will not be affected
by coronavirus (covid-19).
GVW has enacted its pandemic response and preparedness plans to ensure the continued delivery of
water and wastewater services while ensuring the safety of its staff, their families and the local
community.
Goulburn Valley Water Managing Director Peter Quinn said GVW is well prepared to face the
challenges posed by coronavirus (COVID-19).
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“We want to reassure people that drinking water remains safe,” he said. “There‟s no evidence that
coronavirus is transmitted through drinking water and our stringent water treatment process removes
any viruses through the disinfection process.”
As part of these additional safety measures, GVW will close its offices, including its Shepparton
headquarters on Fryers St and the Shepparton Operations Centre on Florence St, from Tuesday,
March 24.
“This is not a decision we‟ve made lightly, but it‟s important to take action to help stop the spread of
coronavirus (COVID-19) and this is part of a number of additional precautions we‟re putting in place,”
Mr Quinn said.
“We‟re taking action early to help flatten the curve, encourage physical distancing and protect the
safety of our staff and communities.”
GVW staff will continue to be available for customers via phone (billing: 1300 454 500, 24hr Customer
Service Centre/faults and emergencies: 1800 454 500), email, online (website and social media) and
webchat.
People can also sign up to the MyGVW self-service customer portal to manage their accounts when it
suits them.
A number of GVW staff have transitioned to remote working arrangements and additional safety
measures have been taken for field staff to stay safe while working, but GWV is well equipped to
continue delivering essential services for customers under these conditions.
Staff will continue to follow all the advice and safety measures recommended by federal and state
governments.
“We‟ll still be undertaking critical maintenance and repairs where it‟s safe to do so, and we‟ve been
working with our contractors and suppliers to ensure our essential infrastructure upgrades and
projects can continue to operate under the new safe working protocols,” Mr Quinn said.
We thank our customers for their patience and understanding during this time and we‟ll be working
hard to minimise the impacts of any changes we make as we work to continue providing essential
services.”
People can keep up to date at www.gvwater.vic.gov.au/covid-19
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GREENSTONE TREES ANZAC LONG WEEKEND TREE SALE
IS STILL ON (at this stage)
Due to the current Corona Virus Crisis we shall be operating our normal
Mega Tree sale over the Anzac Long Weekend,
in a different way.
What stays the same is the huge range of trees
available for sale.
We would really appreciate your support during these
difficult times and given the much wetter summer and
forecast for good autumn rain, this is definitely the
time to secure some of our wonderful trees for this season’s planting.
Our Mega Sale will be by appointment only Friday 24 th , Saturday 25 th and Sunday 26 th April 2020
9am to 4pm each day – appointments of half hour duration.
Please call 03 5777 3340 or email info@greenstonetrees.com to secure your appointment.
We will be following the recommended government procedures during the sale and ask that you help
us by observing the social distancing rules whilst at the nursery and of course please do not visit if
you are sick.
We shall send you our stock & sale price list once your appointment has been confirmed.
We kindly ask for payment via credit card (a 1.5%
administration fee will be applicable) or we can invoice with
collection of your trees once payment has cleared – no cash
please! We also provide a delivery service – conditions apply.
This is a very difficult time for all concerned and we sincerely to
ask for your help to keep us going, we have plenty of trees for
sale and would love to help you with your tree planting needs.
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✌⊂(✰‿✰)つ✌
Cr Marg Attley:-Your local representative on
Mansfield Shire Council. Available to be contacted on:
5776 2231 or marg.attley@mansfield.vic.gov.au
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Friday, 27 March, 2020 - 11:30
Mansfield Shire Council supports
the direction of the Victorian Chief Health Officer to close all campsites to visitors.
Mayor, Cr Marg Attley OAM said with advice to limit non-essential travel, Council is asking all visitors
to the Mansfield Shire to go home as soon as possible.
“Visiting Mansfield and surrounds is not consistent with government advice. Parks Victoria has now
closed campsites and camping grounds throughout the state. As these are not open, this reinforces
the message about not coming to our region during the shutdown,” Cr Attley said.
Mansfield is in an almost unique situation where approximately 50% of rate-payers are non-resident.
“When we ask visitors to stay away, we are not talking about people who own property here, but
people travelling around or escaping other parts of the state, including the cities,” Cr Attley said.
“The government advice is clear; the hashtag is #StayAtHome and we are asking everyone, our
permanent and part-time residents, to stay at home. Home may be in Mansfield or
elsewhere. Wherever it is, stay there,” she said.
“This is an unprecedented time for all of us, with levels of uncertainty that many of us have never felt
before. Extra people to the town are also making it harder for supermarkets and providers of other
essential services to keep up with demand.
“As people make their way out of town, please be kind and treat each other with respect. At the
supermarket, on social media, your neighbours, at work and in the broader community – we‟re all in
this together.”
Message 28/3/2020
As you know, it is a difficult time for us all - uncertainty, fear and disrupted lives and so much that is
out of our control. Everyone reacts differently and has varying obligations and needs. Be patient and
have respect for others!
Council staff are working tirelessly (within a changing environment) to make sure our essential
services continue. Parks and gardens and the road crews are operating.
Planning department is continuing. Your bins will be collected, the Resource Recovery Centre is open
and the Home and Community services (inc. Meals on Wheels), Financial Counselling, Integrated
Family Services and Maternal & Child Health are continuing.
Although the office is closed to the public, you can still call 5775 8555 if you need to contact Council.
Councillors and staff are discussing ways we may be able to relieve some Council related financial
burdens for you. As soon as decisions are made you will be informed.
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Look after yourselves and your families, check on your neighbours and listen to and act on the
State and Federal messaging. Be kind and let‟s work together on this!
I‟m happy for you to call text or email me.
Take care
Marg
Cr Marg Attley OAM 5776 2128 / 0400 256 035
MEDIA STATEMENT
March 31, 2020
Universal telehealth a big win for rural patients
From this week every Australian will be able to pick up the phone and have an appointment with their doctor
from the comfort of their own home.
Dr Helen Haines, Independent Federal Member for Indi, has welcomed the Government's announcement of
universal telehealth, which will allow people to continue getting quality healthcare while at home during the
Coronavirus pandemic.
As a former nurse and midwife, Dr Haines went to the last election calling for comprehensive investment in
telehealth. Dr Haines said that Indi GPs and allied health professionals she had spoken with were delighted by
the announcement.
„This means people can continue to receive advice and treatment without leaving the house, which is safer for
them and for the community‟, Dr Haines said. „This will slow the spread of the virus and make sure our frontline
health staff are ready to fight it when the time comes‟.
She urged the Government to keep the telehealth arrangements in place after the Coronavirus pandemic had
passed, to remove the ongoing barriers to healthcare that rural and regional Australians face.
„We know that it costs more, in both time and money, to see a doctor outside the metropolitan capitals. There‟s
the extra travel time and petrol costs, there are much fewer options for public transport and so for many people
finding a lift if you don‟t drive is an issue. Telehealth assists with these issues‟.
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Universal telehealth will allow all Australians to access Medicare-related phone or video consultations with their
doctor or other health professional for a wide range of services, including mental healthcare, chronic disease
management, health assessments, pregnancy support counselling, and aged care facility or after-hours
consultations.
The Rural Doctors Association of Australia also welcomed the move, with President Dr John Hall saying:
„Expanding access to telehealth for all Australians in these unprecedented times will greatly help to reduce the
spread of the Coronavirus, and will help save lives‟.
Dr Haines noted that telehealth was not commonly understood. To answer some frequently asked questions,
Dr Haines has done a mock „telehealth‟ session with local GPs Dr Clare Wright and Dr Sean Warfe, whose
Wangaratta-based practice North East Family Medicine was an early adopter of telehealth measures. The
video has been widely shared and can be viewed on Dr Haines‟ Facebook page:
https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=353353008918160.
Last minute news from Helen Haines ……
Yesterday, the Government announced a significant new measure to support people through these difficult
times, the JobKeeper Payment.
I wanted to let you know how it works, so you can see if you are eligible, and how it might help you stay in
work.
Under the JobKeeper Payment, businesses impacted by the coronavirus will be able to access a wage subsidy
from the Government to continue paying their employees. Affected employers will be able to claim a
fortnightly payment of $1,500 per eligible employee for a maximum of 6 months.
That means that eligible employees will receive a minimum of $1,500 per fortnight, before tax.
Eligible employees can include full time and part time employees as well as casual employees who have been
with their employer for at least 12 months. The payment also includes people who have been stood down.
If you are an employee, your employer will notify you if they intend to claim the JobKeeper payment on your
behalf, and if you will receive the payment. You can find more information here.
If you are an employer, register your interest on the ATO website here.
For more information on the Australian Government’s economic response to the coronavirus visit the Treasury
website here.
I realise that many people are going through a difficult time. I hope this new scheme will help many people to
keep their jobs, and keep some cash coming in through the door.
You should also be aware that Stage 3 Restrictions are now in place in Victoria to slow the spread of
coronavirus. Read about them here.
They’ll be in place for four weeks and if people breach these directions, they face on-the-spot fines of $1,652
for individuals and $9,913 for businesses. Larger fines can also be issued through the courts.
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I encourage you to read about the new restrictions and to ensure you follow them.
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Together, we can slow the spread of COVID-19 and come out of this faster.
Yours faithfully,
Helen Haines MP
Independent Federal Member for Indi
117 Murphy St Wangaratta VIC 3677
P: 03 5721 7077
E: helen.haines.mp@aph.gov.au
Bye for now
Adele
Adele McCormack
67 MacPherson-Smith
Dve
Mansfield 3722 ☏
0409 600 655
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