New environment group in Beveridge

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July 15, 2025

A NEW environmental community group is being formed for residents in the Beveridge area.

The group had its inaugural meeting in May and followed it up recently with a talk by Ron Litjens titled ‘Faunascaping your Garden’.

Mr Litjens is an enthusiastic naturalist, who has spent many years observing the interactions between wildlife and plants. He is also the author of the popular local nature blog, ‘Focus on Fauna’.

His presentation gave attendees lots of ideas about how to increase the number and diversity of wildlife that comes to a garden.

All Beveridge residents are invited to be part of this new Beveridge environmental group that has a focus on community environmental education and enhancing the environmental values of public land areas in Beveridge through environmental activities such as community tree planting days, nature/bird watching walks, frog nights, spotlighting for native wildlife, litter clean-ups, and environmental programs such as Gardens for Wildlife.

Those interested in Beveridge’s natural environment, and would like to get involved in this new environmental volunteer group can contact Chris Cobern, Upper Merri Landcare Facilitator on: 0413 855 490 or chriscobern@mcmc.org.au

Drop in sessions to pave BMX, skate and mountain bike future

The North Central Review

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July 15, 2025

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Drop in sessions to pave BMX, skate and mountain bike future

USERS of the Mitchell Shire’s multiple skate parks and BMX parks are invited to provide feedback for planning of facilities in the future.

Four drop-in sessions will be held next week, starting at the Wallan Skate and BMX track on July 21, before moving to Seymour Skate Park on July 22, Kilmore Skate Park on July 23 and Mandalay Pump Track on July 24.

An online survey has also been provided on the Engaging Mitchell Shire website, which is open until Monday, August 4.

There will also be an in-person workshop held on July 23, in the John Taylor Room at the Kilmore Library from 6.30pm to 8pm, as well as a virtual workshop from 6.30pm to 9pm on July 30.

The project, according to the Mitchell Shire Council (MSC), aims to understand better the aims of people who want to stay healthy, active and connected in their community.

As of right now, there are no official mountain bike trails owned or managed by MSC, but further community consultation will allow it to make plans based on these strategies.

Across the Mitchell Shire, there are four BMX tracks, five skate parks and three mountain bike tracks.

Mitchell Shire defends rates position

The North Central Review

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July 15, 2025

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MITCHELL Shire Mayor Councillor John Dougall has defended what he describes as the first budget of the new council, while acknowledging the concerns raised by the Victorian Farmers Federation (VFF) regarding rate increases.

Cr Dougall said the VFF’s analysis focuses solely on the Rural Agricultural 40ha– 100ha category, not the full range of rural land categories within Mitchell Shire, adding that rates in the dollar have increased by 3.9 per cent across all categories, with the exception of Subdivisional Land, which increased by 8.2 per cent.

“The total amount collected from rural agricultural land 40ha – 100ha will increase by 5.7 per cent while overall rates income across all categories has seen a seven per cent increase, which includes supplementary rates and new properties,” he said.

“We understand the financial pressures faced by residents and businesses in our shire, especially with the new levy. This budget balances immediate needs with long-term goals.”

“This budget reflects the commitment to tackling these challenges head-on while continuing to invest in our community’s future.”

Cr Dougal added that it is valuation changes—not Council discretion—that is the the primary driver of rate increases.

“Council does not target any specific class of land. The same rating methodology has been applied consistently year-on-year, and we remain committed to equity across all land categories,” he said.

“Council has a Hardship Policy and application process in place to support community members experiencing financial difficulty. We encourage anyone facing challenges to reach out and discuss available options.”

For further information or to discuss individual circumstances, ratepayers are encouraged to contact Council directly.

Dealing with drought evening

The North Central Review

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July 15, 2025

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THIS week provides an opportunity for primary producers, small-scale growers and lifestyle landholders to learn more about dealing with and surviving drought conditions.

Farmers across Mitchell Shire are facing an increasingly dire situation, as persistent drought conditions tighten their grip despite recent winter showers. While some districts received brief bursts of rain, they’ve done little to reverse what has become a long-term rainfall deficiency across much of the region.

To assist landholders, Mitchell Shire Economic Development unit has organised a free evening for practical advice and support for landholders managing the impacts of drought.

The evening will be held at the Broadford Hall, 18 Murchison Street, this Wednesday July 16 from 6:30pm to 9:00pm.

Local experts will discuss the weather outlook, livestock, animal health and pasture management. Advice will also be given on hardship and mental health support and Government assistance and community programs.

Blazeaid will present on giving a farmer a break and Dunkirk for drought. Landholders can bring a dam water sample for testing.

In Mitchell Shire the landscape remains dry and brittle. Paddocks that would typically be lush at this time of year are patchy and sparse, with many dams running low or completely dry. The rainfall that has fallen has often been too little too late or in the wrong location, offering minimal help for crop establishment or pasture recovery.

Local farmers are reporting growing concerns as feed costs soar and stock water becomes increasingly hard to secure. The burden is compounded by rising input prices and continuing rate pressures, despite recent state government relief measures.

The Victorian Government is providing a further $75 million in vital drought support to farmers across the state.

Statewide, the package includes continuation of statewide technical decision-making, mental health support and administration for farm debt mediation until June 2026 ($5.9 million), along with paused indexation and reduced duties, fees and charges ($6.3 million) and the On-farm Kangaroo Control Rebate program.

While government support and infrastructure investment offer some reprieve, the fundamental issue remains: the drought shows no signs of letting up. The Bureau of Meteorology has indicated that ongoing dry conditions, combined with warmer-than-average temperatures, could further impact the already strained growing season.

Please RSVP for catering purposes on email environment@mitchellshire.vic.gov.au, with walk-ins welcome on the evening.

Community food relief grants open

The North Central Review

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July 15, 2025

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MEMBER for Euroa, Annabelle Cleeland, is encouraging local community and volunteer groups to apply for grants as part of the 2025-2026 Community Food Relief Program.

A successful applicant in the last round of funding was the Seymour and District Community House.

Groups eligible for funding include neighbourhood houses, community and volunteer-led organisations and social enterprises.

Ms Cleeland is urging eligible groups to apply, given the important work local community and volunteer groups provide across our region to people in need.

“I’ve had the privilege of meeting with community groups and neighbourhood houses across our region, and it’s clear just how vital their work is to the wellbeing of our towns,” Ms Cleeland said.

“With the demand for food relief continuing to rise, it’s more important than ever that we support the organisations helping people in need.

“Unfortunately, many of these groups often lack the resources required to sustain their essential programs. That’s why this new round of funding is such a welcome boost for the sector.

“I strongly encourage all eligible groups to apply for the latest round of the Community Food Relief Program to ensure they can continue their valuable work.”

Applications for the 2025-2026 Community Food Relief Program – Local Grants close on August 19, 2025.

For more information and to apply, visit https://www.vic.gov.au/community-food-relief-program-local-grants.

Farmers meeting in Pyalong

The North Central Review

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July 15, 2025

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PROTECT Our Farms, the grassroots organisation formed to fight restrictive planning controls in Mitchell Shire, is expanding its work to tackle broader challenges facing rural communities across North Central Victoria.

The group is inviting farmers, local businesses and rural residents to attend a community meeting at 7pm on Thursday, August 21 in the Pyalong Recreation Hall to have their say on local priorities and help shape practical action plans and strategies.

President Bill Chisholm, a former Mitchell Shire councillor, said the group’s past efforts to build awareness and unite landholders have laid a strong foundation for protecting farms and rural livelihoods into the future.

“Protect Our Farms has proven there is real strength when rural people come together with one voice,” Mr Chisholm said.

“We started by pushing back against planning rules that threatened farming, and now we’re broadening our focus to tackle the bigger issues that keep putting pressure on our farms, families, and rural towns such as the new Emergency Services Tax.”

Mr Chisholm said that Protect Our Farms will now focus on four key areas: rural and pro-farmer policies, practical emergency management, environment and food security and stopping unfair cost shifting and government red tape.

“We want to make sure decision-makers at all levels of government hear from the people who know rural life best,”

Pyalong farmer, Phil Searle, said Protect Our Farms already has more than 100 members and continues to grow as more people stand up for the future of local farms and rural communities.

“This meeting is a chance for the community to tell us what matters most — and for us to turn that into strong, clear advocacy that gets results,” Mr Searle said.

“We know that when farmers and rural communities speak together, we get heard. We encourage everyone who cares about the future of our farms and country towns to come along, share ideas, and get involved.” Committee member, Therese Ryan said.

Active Landcare events

Michael Thompson

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July 15, 2025

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THE Upper Plenty Land Care Group (UPMCLG) held a Weed Management Planning workshop recently following increased requirement for landowners to submit weed management plans along with notices being issued to landowners in the Upper Plenty area.

Many residents were uncertain about how to complete the plans and what level of detail was required.

Those in attendance were given an overview of what was required. Daniel Young, the principal ecologist, from TREC Land Services talked through the different options for weed control based on different land uses, both agriculture and rural lifestyle.

After the presentations and questions residents to complete their plans that were then reviewed and accepted for submission.

It was a successful day with many residents going home armed with a lot of new knowledge as well as having their plan submitted.

The UPMCLG also held a tree planting day with volunteers from Bupa Australia. The volunteers planted over over 100 indigenous plants on a farm in Upper Plenty. These plantings will help provide important wildlife habitat and nesting sites for woodland birds.

Whittlesea event

Landcare Week is coming up and the Whittlesea Landcare Group is hosting a special presentation on the Powerful Owl by Ron Litjens.

The event will provide an opportunity to come together, share knowledge, and connect with others from across the region.

The event will be held on August 5 from 6.30pm to 8pm at the Whittlesea Community Activity Centre. Bring a plate to share – tea and coffee provided. To register go to www.mcmc.org.au

Cricket teams urged to try new Donnybrook ground

The North Central Review

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July 15, 2025

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Cricket teams urged to try new Donnybrook ground

EXISTING or new cricket clubs will be invited to submit their expressions of interest for a summer tenancy at the Olivine Recreation Reserve.

The reserve is located at 2 Cycad Avenue, Donnybrook, with existing clubs asked to meet five points of criteria.

Applicants must acknowledge the completion of the Council’s Fair Access Policy, provide a draft budget for the 2025-26 season, an adequate level of insurance, letters of support for the application, and a completion of the online Expression of Interest form.

The weighting of the application will see 40 per cent of the criteria towards club development and their fair access policies, while 20 per cent is dedicated to the club vision.

A plethora of nearby clubs could use the oval as one to ease pressure on junior and senior teams.

Laurimar Cricket Club, for instance, fields 14 junior teams and seven senior teams, including a women’s team, while Mernda fields 10 junior teams and four senior teams.

Revamped Whittlesea IGA open for business

The North Central Review

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July 15, 2025

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Revamped Whittlesea IGA open for business

A newly revamped Champions’ Whittlesea IGA is bringing in fresh new options for customers to enjoy.

The North Central Review was invited to sample the new facilities which has allowed the IGA to sell sushi to customers, while also revamping many of the fridges and fruit stocks, as well as its liquor store.

The refurbishment started in late September 2024 and is currently in the final stages.

Fresh food offerings have been increased, and 90% of the store’s refrigeration has been replaced, including the delicatessen fridge.

The meat case has been replaced with a bigger range, and a specialty cheese room has been added, with a wide variety of cheeses to pick from.

A community win win

Jo Kubeil

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July 15, 2025

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BUSINESSES and community organisations seeking to become more inclusive and strengthen their workforce can do so with ABC Disability Group.

Director, Sharna Arceri along with her mother Nadene Arceri are introducing an innovative way for all-ability communities to thrive through real life experiences, and one way they do this is by facilitating employment or volunteer opportunities for their participants.

“Our biggest goal is to support our participants in becoming active and valued members of the community, “she said.

“Our incredible team is the heart of everything we do. Their leadership, dedication, and hands-on guidance set the standard and inspire our participants every step of the way.

“Some people don’t want us to leave once we start volunteering there.”

On the to do list is washing vehicles for Victoria Police, the CFA and a local car dealership.

In addition to putting in a hard day’s labour, there’s maths and English skills to develop, and perhaps the most important, communication encounters.

The Lalor Community House appreciates the extra help with their social food relief program and Whittlesea Community House adores having helpers for their Container Deposit Scheme program.

“It’s innovative but exposure is growing. We’re a strong team, staff are there [with participants] 100 per cent of the time,” Ms Arceri said.

“One of our participants found a job in hospitality at a local golf driving range, and another doing odd jobs like using the cash register and greeting customers.”

Another winner is the Big Group Hug charity, and perhaps next it could be yours?

To learn more call Sharna on 0488 120 357.