New bridge opens to Doreen traffic

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January 16, 2024

Traffic has started crossing a new bridge over Plenty River in Doreen as part of a major milestone on the Bridge Inn Road upgrade.

Crews opened one lane in each direction on December 18, marking a significant step towards opening all four lanes on the 68-metre bridge, which is expected to occur later in 2024.

Once fully open, the new bridge will remove a bottleneck at the existing two-lane bluestone bridge, which will be repurposed as a walking and cycling path.

Major Road Projects Victoria program director Adrian Furner said the opening was a sign of the upgrade’s strong progress.

“Opening one lane in each direction on the new bridge over Plenty River is a huge milestone for the Bridge Inn Road Upgrade, and a significant step toward fully opening the bridge with all four lanes over the coming year,” he said.

“We’re also moving traffic onto the new westbound lanes between Plenty River and Bassetts Road, so we can start upgrading the existing eastbound lanes through this section as well.”

In another milestone for the upgrade, crews moved traffic onto the new westbound lanes on Bridge Inn Road between Plenty River and Bassetts Road on December 20.

With one lane open in each direction, crews have started upgrading the existing eastbound lanes along the section of the road.

Other traffic arrangements will also be in place throughout 2024. Access will be maintained for emergency services in the area, including Doreen Country Fire Authority.

The new bridge between Mernda and Doreen will ease congestion and improve safety for about 17,000 motorists who travel along Bridge Inn Road daily, while also improving access to Mernda’s railway station and town centre.

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Input invited for draft capital works program

The North Central Review

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January 16, 2024

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Input invited for draft capital works program

Mitchell Shire Council is inviting residents to help shape the future of the shire by providing input to its draft four-year capital works program and 2024/25 budget development.

The consultation process will include a series of pop-up sessions at markets, online platforms for feedback submission, and an interactive project pipeline on council’s website.

Council aims to gather input from across the shire to ensure the budget development and capital works program meet the evolving needs of the community.

The draft budget and capital works plan focuses on areas such as infrastructure development, community services, and environmental sustainability.

Project highlights from the draft capital works program for 2024/25 include Wallara Waters Integrated Family and Children’s Centre; Greater Beveridge Community Centre Expansion; Missing Links Footpath along Northern Highway, Wallan; Beveridge Central Active Open Space; Seymour Tennis Complex; Raised Pedestrian Crossing at Station Street and Wallis Street, Seymour; Wallan Kindergarten Play Space Renewal; Wellington Street, Wallan, road construction and Darraweit Road, Wallan, road construction.

Council will host drop-in sessions so people can ask questions and provide feedback on the plans, including at:

Tallarook Farmers’ Market, February 4, 8.30am – 12.30pm
Wallan Olde Time Market, February 10, 9am – 2pm
Seymour Rotary Market, February 18, 9am – 1pm
Kilmore Scout Market, February 24, 9am – 2pm

Mitchell Shire Mayor Louise Bannister said submitting feedback was an opportunity for residents to directly influence the direction and priorities of the community.

“We are committed to transparent and inclusive planning, and your participation is key to our success,” she said.

“Every voice in our community matters. We are eager to hear your ideas, concerns, and visions for Mitchell Shire.

“The drop-in sessions are a fantastic opportunity for residents to learn more about these exciting projects. Community feedback is not just welcomed – it’s essential.”

Residents can learn more about the consultation process, view the draft documents, and submit their feedback at engagingmitchellshire.com.

The plans and submission forms will also be available from council’s customer and library service centres or people can phone for more information on 5734 6200.

Submissions are open until February 29.

New CEO at GOTAFE

The North Central Review

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January 16, 2024

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GOTAFE’s board announced last month the appointment of Kristie O’Brien as the new chief executive.

Ms O’Brien’s appointment follows an extensive recruitment process, in which the board identify her as the outstanding candidate to lead GOTAFE into the next chapter.

Ms O’Brien, who joined GOTAFE in May 2022 as the executive director of education, brings a wealth of experience in the TAFE sector with a career in vocational education spanning over two decades.

Ms O’Brien’s appointment signals a renewed commitment by GOTAFE to continue its legacy as a leading vocational education and training provider in regional Victoria.

GOTAFE board chair Candy Broad said Ms O’Brien’s vision for GOTAFE was grounded in collaboration and responsiveness to the needs of students, industry partners, and the community.

“Kristie’s appointment as [chief executive] is a testament to her exceptional leadership skills and deep understanding of the vocational education landscape,” she said.

“Her commitment to excellence and innovation in education makes her the ideal leader to steer GOTAFE into its next era of delivering exceptional vocational education and training to our communities across the north-east.”

Having fulfilled the role of interim chief executive since April 2023, Ms O’Brien’s leadership and dedication have been instrumental in delivering GOTAFE’s 2024-26 Strategic Plan, including the institute’s renewed focus on education delivery and supporting students to achieve their aspirations.

Her commitment to enhancing the quality of education and training is expected to be pivotal in leading GOTAFE through its next phase of development and innovation.

Ms O’Brien said she was proud and excited to step into the role.

“TAFE is in my DNA – it’s a sector I have dedicated my career to because I believe in the power of vocational education to transform lives and communities,” she said.

“I look forward to continuing to collaborate with our dedicated team and stakeholders to continue delivering outstanding vocational training and education in regional Victoria.”

Historic appointment at Seymour Racing Club

The North Central Review

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January 16, 2024

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Historic appointment at Seymour Racing Club

Seymour Racing Club has made history with the appointment of its first female chairperson.

Mardi Jarvis will step into the role following the resignation of Steve Clifton, who served in the position for a decade.

Across a public service career spanning nearly three decades, Ms Jarvis has extensive experience across the defence and court sectors and is a graduate of Harvard Kennedy School’s Emerging Leaders Program.

Seymour Racing Club chief executive Chris Martin said he was delighted with the appointment of such a well-credentialed professional to the position.

“Having Mardi leading our board is a fantastic coup for the club. She’s incredibly professional, highly-respected and has a deep passion for our community,” Mr Martin said.

“The fact we can attract people of Mardi’s quality to the board is a testament to the hard work being undertaken here and the direction in which we’re heading.

“It also sends a great message to the community. The racing industry is inclusive and open to everyone, regardless of your background.”

Mr Martin also thanked Mr Clifton for his decade leading the board and his achievements in that period.

“To be in any role for 10 years is a great achievement, let alone in a volunteer capacity. Steve has done a magnificent job over the past 10 years,” Mr Martin said.

“Steve oversaw some difficult periods including the pandemic, but he leaves a lasting legacy with so much important work completed throughout his tenure.”

Ms Jarvis said she was looking forward to hitting the ground running.

“I’m thrilled to be taking up this position at what is an incredibly exciting time for the club,” Ms Jarvis said.

“Picking up the baton from Steve, who has done a tremendous job, made taking this position very easy.

“The board and I can’t wait to work closely with Chris and deliver great experiences out here for our community.”

Warrant issued for Damien Miles

The North Central Review

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January 16, 2024

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Police are appealing for public assistance to help locate Damien Miles.

The 40-year-old is wanted on warrant for disqualified driving and is known to frequent the Mernda, Whittlesea, Epping, Beveridge and Preston areas.

Miles is described as Caucasian in appearance, and is about 175 centimetres tall, of solid build, with brown hair and brown eyes.

Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or make a confidential report at crimestoppersvic.com.au.

Bank awards school youngsters

Max Davies

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January 16, 2024

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Students from seven Mitchell Shire primary schools have been named recipients of NorCen Financial Services’ Community Bank student awards, recognising their demonstration of school and community values.

Schools nominated several students for the awards, with $500 then provided by Norcen’s Bendigo Bank branches at Wallan, Kilmore and Broadford to each school to distribute among the selected students.

NorCen community engagement and marketing officer Lee Day said the awards were another example of the Community Bank’s contribution to the wider community.

“From our perspective, it’s great to recognise those students in our community who have displayed those values on behalf of the school and in the community,” she said.

2023 student award recipients

Wallan Primary School: Katie Harris, Athan Taxidis

St Patrick’s Primary School Kilmore: Jason Cutler, Jackson Kent

Beveridge Primary School: William Rowbottom, Caiden Barnes

Upper Plenty Primary School: Pramila Bhattarai, Jude Bova, Lachlan Brown, Haylee Tanner

Our Lady of the Way Wallan: Dayne Jeffery, Jacinta Dodd

Broadford Primary School: Zoey Robinson, Sophie Slade, Clancy Barry, Chompoo (Pinky) Long, Tyson Kie

Willowmavin Primary School: Bodhi Sanderson, Oliver Sheffield, Milla Hiscock, Zavier Beale

Defibrillators to roll out on V/Line trains

The North Central Review

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January 16, 2024

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Defibrillators to roll out on V/Line trains

The installation of Automatic External Defibrillators, AEDs, has begun on V/Line trains, providing vital assistance to passengers in an emergency.

The rollout began in December last year, with devices that can be operated by either V/Line staff or members of the public to help save lives.

More than 90 AEDs have been installed on V/Line trains, including 65 on VLocity trains – with many more to be progressively rolled out over the coming months.

V/Line chief executive Matt Carrick said having defibrillators on trains would increase a person’s chance of surviving an emergency.

“This is a really important project and will significantly enhance staff and passengers’ ability to respond to these incidents onboard our train services,” he said.

“Each of our different train types have required a different design so we have been working to develop prototypes to ensure the units can be safely installed and are fit-for-purpose.”

Ambulance Victoria data shows combining CPR with defibrillation can increase a person’s survival rate by up to 70 per cent.

To minimise any disruptions to passengers, the devices are being installed on trains during regular maintenance regimes, while portable defibrillators have also been given to each train as an interim measure.

Additional devices have also recently been installed on all V/Line platforms at Southern Cross Station to make them more accessible to staff and members of the public.

Euroa students excel in Weary Dunlop Awards

The North Central Review

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January 16, 2024

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Euroa students excel in Weary Dunlop Awards

Students across the Euroa electorate who displayed exceptional qualities have been recognised with the Sir Edward ‘Weary’ Dunlop Award for 2023.

The Weary Dunlop Award is awarded to students in the electorate each year, with recipients often having demonstrated persistence and resilience to overcome hurdles and setbacks.

Other qualities also taken into consideration include compassion, humility, friendship, forgiveness, courage, leadership, and integrity.

Ella Currell, of St Patrick’s Primary School, Kilmore, was one of eight recipients of the award. All other recipients were based north of the Mitchell Shire.

Member for Euroa Annabelle Cleeland said it was a privilege to be involved with the Weary Dunlop Award.

“Being able to present this award to students who have achieved so much over the year was an honour,” she said.

“Whether it be for overcoming significant adversity, being leaders of their school and community, high achievement in academics, or a passion for social justice, all of this year’s winners are incredibly deserving.

“I want to congratulate all those who received an award for their exceptional efforts and thank all of our local schools that participated.”

Sir Ernest Edward Dunlop, known as ‘Weary’, grew up in Benalla and was a surgeon in the Australian Army during World War Two.

He is regarded as a hero and is renowned for his leadership and care while being imprisoned by the Japanese Army, during which he saved wounded and sick soldiers – sometimes risking his own life.

“Despite the horrific war-time conditions in the prison camps, the boy from the bush never lost hope in humanity,” Ms Cleeland said.

“In hatred he found the strength to fight for the wellbeing of others – something I think we need more of in this world.”

Ms Cleeland said for the Australian prisoners of war who endured the awful conditions of the Burma Railway, Weary was a symbol of hope.

“An inspiring, courageous Australian, who despite regular beatings and torture, never once complained or gave up,” she said.

“It was Weary’s way – the tougher things got, the more determined he became to see it through.”

Northern Hospital Palliative Care Unit courtyard reopens

The North Central Review

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January 16, 2024

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Northern Hospital Palliative Care Unit courtyard reopens

Northern Health Foundation reopened an outdoor courtyard at its Northern Hospital Palliative Care Unit last month thanks to contributions from dedicated patrons.

Patrons and special guests joined members of Northern Health Foundation Board, management, staff and patients for a special afternoon tea officially reopening the gardens after the space received an extensive makeover.

Northern Health engineering and maintenance teams worked tirelessly over the past months to complete the project in time for the launch.

Northern Health public affairs and foundation executive director Pina Di Donato was thrilled with the outcome.

“It was a privilege to be involved in such a special project alongside foundation patrons and Northern Health colleagues,” she said.

“I take this opportunity to thank everyone involved in creating this beautiful space for our patients and their families.”

The project included some structural works, the installation of undercover family entertainment areas, complete with outdoor sofas and dining table.

In ‘Kilmore Corner’ – affectionately named in recognition of the contribution of patron Bev Carman and her fundraising efforts in the Kilmore community – stands a water feature surrounded by lush plants and decorative wall features.

The space provides a tranquil respite area for patients and family members wanting some quiet reflective time.

“It’s very rewarding to see the finished result and know that it will bring joy to patients in the Palliative Care Unit,” Ms Carman said.

The entertainment area, contributed by patron Josie Minniti and her fundraising network, provides a comfortable space for patients to gather with their loved ones, share meals, or commemorate special occasions.

Ms Minniti has been a long-time supporter of Northern Health’s cancer services.

“It was important for me to bring my family and supporters to see the difference our fundraising makes to Northern Health. It has been such a worthwhile project to be involved in,” she said.

The remainder of the gardens were funded through a financial grant from Dry July Foundation, after staff gathered to fundraise for the cause in 2022.

The Palliative Care Unit gardens at Northern Hospital Epping are the first of many projects planned through Northern Health Foundation’s partnership with Northern Health.

Mitchell bushwalkers reach new peak

Jordyn Grubisic

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January 16, 2024

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Six members of the Mitchell Bushwalking Group – aged between 50 to 75 – completed a 160-kilometre trek through the Grampians last month.

The Grampians Peaks Trail is a challenging 13-day, 12-night hike from Mount Zero in the north through to Dunkeld in the south.

Hikers carried a fully loaded pack including a tent, sleeping bag, food, clothing for all weather conditions and water.

Member of the Mitchell Bushwalking Group Rene Reynolds said the trail was a great walk.

“This was incredibly beautiful. The Grampians wildflowers were in spectacular display,” she said.

“There were many steep ascents and steep descents and plenty of boulder hopping along the way.

“The view from the peaks was very rewarding after the strenuous climbs up.”

Ms Reynolds said the campsites provided on the trail were ‘first class’.

“The shelters were large, well-built structures with windows capturing views over the valley and around the shelter were timber platforms to pitch the tents,” she said.

Each shelter had phone charging stations and large water tanks with fresh water.

The Mitchell Bushwalking participants had completed plenty of training and overnight hiking prior resulting in all managing to successfully complete the trail.

“We had a lot of fun, a few tears and a few doubts as we faced yet another peak. Our camp at the end of each day was a welcome sight,” Ms Reynolds said.

“Most of us carried a variety of dehydrated food and some welcome delicacies to share around.

“We organised two food drops for the time, which meant we were carrying around a four-day supply of food with an average pack weight of 16 kilograms, but one carried 23 kilograms because he could.

“We ended the walk at Dunkeld where we enjoyed a much-needed shower, fresh sheets and a celebration meal at the Sturgeon View restaurant – we all earned this.”

Mitchell Bushwalking Group has been operating locally for about 10 years with day walks, overnights, hiking and some long-distance walks.

New members are always welcome and can contact mitchellwalksgroup@gmail.com or the Mitchell Bushwalking Group Facebook page.