The Vale Podcast: Recent Episodes
Clear Eyes Media
A community podcast for the town of Robinvale. Contributors from all sections of the community including local sports, cultures, news, politics & business.
THIS PODCAST WAS RECORDED ON TUESDAY 6TH DECEMBER - BEFORE FURTHER ROAD CLOSURES OCCURRED ON WEDNESDAY.
A further update will occur in the coming days.
It's been a while between podcasts, but given there's potentially a flood emergency on our hands and this is a community service, it seemed like a good idea to get Senior Sarge Longy in for a chat about floods and common sense.
Just a quick debrief and catch up with Mildura Rural City Council Mayor Liam Wood.
These chat's are always pretty relaxed and casual which I think is important so we can inform people on Council processes, opportunities and issues without the obstacle of formal language. I know being approachable is as important to Mayor Wood as it is to me and these chats are exactly that.
Easy, approachable real time conversations.
It's all about the Jesse's and the sport this week... still.
Jesse Medina was a main event fight at the Demolition event a few weeks ago and things didn't go his way but in this episode we really get into the sports psychology and figure out why.
He's also looking for another fight before the end of the year before he goes looking for a rematch so watch this space.
The other Jesse this week is Jesse Zaffina who has my full admiration. This young man is becoming an Ambulance Community Officer so we chat about that and why he didn't end up in the Army like he'd planned after year 12.
Then we get to Seamus who has escaped the first round of delisting's before trade period despite only playing less than half the season. We're hoping for the best for your Seamo.
With the SFNL Grand Final tomorrow we thought it only proper to have Donny in to talk about Under 16's and Tina Zappia in to talk about the under 13's.
Jane & Pete Aikman called in to talk about B grade netball, tennis and the crops.
It's grand final week and Robinvale Euston Football Netball Club have three teams in the big dance.
Under 13's div 2 netball - Under 16's football - and with an average age of 37 years, 1 month and 4 days, our B grade netball team.
During the week Sarah McMonnies who is arguably the best shooter in the league was runner up in the league B & F, whilst Jane Aikman came third and Carmen McMonnies also fell in the top ten, so with a team that has polled so highly through the mid-court, we should be in a much better position than the last time we met Irymple in the regular season.
We dissect the game with Coach Steve Bowden and Team Manager Sarah Lamattina and get Phil in because of course he needs to be involved in these conversations.
We shall have another edition on Friday with Tina Zappia who is coach of the under 13's.
Two weeks in a row, not only to have a weekly episode for the first time in months, but to have the same team back in the studio!
What a treat and it allowed us to discuss everything that's happened this week including the footy and Ethan Gill getting off his charge at the tribunal, B Grade netball of course, the Mallee Almond Blossom Festival and all manner of other topics. We also send our condolences to the Chirchiglia and Albanese families on the passing of Betty and our thoughts are with The Vale's own Charlie Albanese at this time.
We all have a dream. You have a dream, I have a dream. Where would we be if we didn't have dreams and ambitions.
Some of us realise those dreams, some go unrequited.
Louie Bulzomi has never given up on his dreams. He's thought about it, but he's persisted and persisted and a few weeks ago, he got to realise part of that dream and call an AFL match between Collingwood & Essendon.
We talk to him about it all and about a few other things,
Connie Chirchiglia is on to talk about the Almond Blossom Festival that is happening Sunday 21st August too. She tells us about the stalls, the entertainment, the childrens entertainment and more.
This is a community podcast so it's open for anyone who wishes to utilise it. We like facts, don't like rumour and innuendo and like to get things out in the open. We're adults here.
Granted, at times, someone's truth, is slightly different to someone else's truth and that's ok we're human.
My point is, we're a community podcast available for the entire community so when Phil or Sgt. Long or anyone contacts me asking to come on, the doors are open and mic is open and we're ready to go.
So here we go with Phil this week, whom we haven't spoken to on the pod for a long time. Certainly not since his last race in Darwin where the championship slipped away from his grasp, so we talk about that, we talk about Sarah's calf injury from last week's match again Sth Mildura, we talk about Ross's race in Alice last weekend and what exactly is going on with the bench at the footy club.
TRIGGER WARNING
This episode deals with some heavy issues such as domestic and family violence. If any of this is triggering for you or you need help, please hit the White Ribbon website for a list of resources, or call 1800RESPECT
This woman is a force. She's an incredible advocate, she's a survivor.
She is Kim O'Reilly and she's spreading the message that's it's never ok!
Domestic and family violence is never ok.
In 2019 Kim O’Reilly’s life was changed forever when she was violently assaulted by her then partner. In the years since, she’s taken the first steps to recovery and despite her trauma, Kim empathetically rejects the label ‘victim’. She is a survivor. This is her story….
If any of this is triggering for you, please contact 1800respect 1800 737 732
Or services such as lifeline on 13 11 14.
It's been awhile! Apologies for the lengthy hiatus, but we're all busy. Especially Charlie.
But we all managed to get into the newly fitted out Network House Community Studio thanks to FRRR and talk about Donny's footy come back.
This year we've got four riders hitting the red centre for the Tatts Finke Desert Race and I, for one, and gutted I can't be there to witness it.
Nathan Falvo, Phil & Broden Connell, Nicholas Boyd are all being supported by their mechanic Joey Heeps in their quest to finish the unforgiving two day race through all sorts of challenging terrain from Alice Spring to Apatula (Finke).
Nathan has done the race multiple times on a quad, but has never done it on two wheels and in fact, didn't even own his KTM 350 at the time of entry.
He leaves for Alice on Monday and has even promised to take the Big Brass Mug for me and get Toby to sign it!! AMAZING! I can't even tell you how excited that makes me!
Before we get to all this though, Donny and Jimmy come in to have a yarn about all sorts of things; mainly footy.
It really is a full dance card this week! It had to be with so many things happening.
First is obviously Phil Lamattina after a win at Heathcote last weekend putting him just 10 points shy of the top of the table in the Top Fuel Championships, it would be remise of us not to have him in.
We also chat to Rebecca Wells from Mallee Regional Innovation Centre about the $150million in partnership funding from the One Basin CRC and the work MRIC are currently doing.
Dr Anne Webster joins us on the phone quickly to chat about her run for Deputy Leader of the National Party and finally Joe Colombo, a MICA paramedic (much higher up than Charlie). joins us for a chat about the Ambulance Service and becoming a first aider.
It's been a while, but things have been hectic so we do episodes when we can get them out these days.
There were some important topics to discuss with Senior Sergeant Dale Long of Robinvale Police regarding the local spate of farm burglaries and some arrests that have been made.
We also discuss the new Neighbourhood Policing Model that he's pushing out.
Link to the VicPol survey: https://engage.vic.gov.au/annual-vicpol-community-sentiment-survey-2022
We also chat with Jessie and Justin from Elders Insurance Mildura on insurance and on MMA!
There's a bit of moisture around so Donny was able to make it into the studio this week to have a chat about the Don Falvo B & F medal which was an honour bestowed upon him last week.
Charlie is still too cool to come in but hopefully next week at some point, after he's come back to earth following Cochella.
There's so much going on over Easter we thought we needed an extra episode to cover it all.
Dale Long who is our senior sergeant at Robinvale Police is in for a chat about all sorts of things including the Manangatang homicide and other things keeping the unit busy.
Al and Vicki are in to talk about the Easter tournament which now has a total pool of $3,500 in cash prizes to be won!
Al and Vicki normally play together but there was a little incident at country week and the dream team became a nightmare so they've broken up and established new teams, We talk about it during the episode so you'll just have to listen.
Lt. Emma Wright is also in to talk about becoming a volunteer for the CFA. Robinvale CFA is 100% volunteer based, so no volunteers, no one to fight your fires! We talk to Emma about how that all happens and what happens when the volunteer base gets low like it is at the moment. There are only a few families who are volunteers, fewer still who are able to leave work, family etc to go fight fires at all hours of the day and night. Emma is really looking for new people to join and you can find out everything you need to know here: https://www.cfa.vic.gov.au/volunteers-careers/volunteer-with-cfa
Trav Bussell, long time friend of the show, is now working at MVAC as the Men's Time Out Services Co-ordinator. What exactly does this mean? Well, essentially it means he gets to keep making a difference where he wants to and he's also working with Calvin Henry who is now a regular on the show.
We also talk footy and basketball too because why wouldn't we?
Sharon Peart was a long time Mildura Rural City Councillor and is now the chair of Lower Murray Water and a board member of Mallee CMA. She's also dedicated her life to women's breast health and well-being in her own business, All About Me - for lifestyle, wellbeing and fun.
We talk about it all.
We also catch up with Anne Webster and it was before the election date was confirmed and before Minister Littleproud had made his announcements but it's always a chat worth having with Dr Webster.
It's a bit of a random one this week. We'v had a lot going on and with a long list of people waiting to make an appearance on this podcast, we're falling behind a couple of weeks in terms of appearances.
RDHS has a new mental health clinician which is terrific and the walk in clinic is still running every Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 9am til 1pm.
No referral or appointment needed, no medicare required either, you can just walk in and be see by one of the mental health team at Robinvale District Health Services!
Bec is back too with a new listing in Robinvale and more of her story to tell which is awesome and we love hearing that.
If you'd like to help keep this podcast going, please consider becoming a VIP (Very Important Patron). via our Patreon page: patreon.com/thevalepodcast
It's a bit of a random one this week. We'v had a lot going on and with a long list of people waiting to make an appearance on this podcast, we're falling behind a couple of weeks in terms of appearances.
RDHS has a new mental health clinician which is terrific and the walk in clinic is still running every Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 9am til 1pm.
No referral or appointment needed, no medicare required either, you can just walk in and be see by one of the mental health team at Robinvale District Health Services!
Bec is back too with a new listing in Robinvale and more of her story to tell which is awesome and we love hearing that.
If you'd like to help keep this podcast going, please consider becoming a VIP (Very Important Patron). via our Patreon page: patreon.com/thevalepodcast
The March Long Weekend in this part of the world has always been a big one. We welcome a LOT of people to the area for the Robinvale Euston 80 Ski Race!
This week, Mitch came in to have a chat about pulling the event together after a two year hiatus because of covid, and you may not hear it in his voice, but he's clearly a bit excited about it.
We've also got a community basketball match between the Mildura Heat V Robinvale Basketball Association Men from 2pm on Saturday.
Coach Calvin came in for a chat about that and about his role at MVAC heading up the men's and youth services which is awesome and it means he'll be a lot more involved now within our community.
Phil is obviously in to talk about the Top Fuel Championship round at Mildura's Sunset Strip this weekend and to be reminded that he's been beaten by Jade TWICE on that very track.
Jack also checks the Dong for the first time in a while and fills us in on the market this weekend and some future events coming up!
Read more on our website and sign up to become a VIP here.
We have two very special guests this week, one of which we've been trying to get on the pod for a long time, and that is Triple M Junior Player Of The Week, Ignatius Jukes.
The kid is the oldest 10 year old I've ever met and is swiftly becoming my junior Council as far as planning for the future for young people.
We also have Bec Marciano in who plenty of you would know, but how much to do you actually know?
Did you know she ran away and joined the navy at 16 years old or that she thought Robinvale was going to be like Wolf Creek?
We're going to chat to Bec more regularly now and hope to give other women in positions of leadership a voice.
Get extra episodes and even our regular episodes early by becoming a VIP. Sign up for a one off donation or regular monthly donations here: patreon.com/thevalepodcast
We get two of the coaches together to have a bit of banter on air before the big day - Steve wasn't interested in banter, but Matthew came to play.
We shall see what happens on Saturday.
Watch the game live streamed on YouTube and Facebook with guest commentators Clavin Henry and Andre McDonald
Apparently some of you enjoy when it's just the three of us sitting around the table chewing the fat.
It's probably not as candid as when the mics are off but you get the idea.
Remember, if you'd like to support this podcast financially sign up to become a VIP at patreon.com/thevalepodcast
Donny needs to remember to treat every microphone as if it's hot. Right after he signed off on this week's episode he made a little remark with I think, he thinks, I didn't record.... but I did. And I left it in.
We chat hail storms & cricket with Donny, we touch on Interleague which is not going ahead this year, we get into all sorts of things as we tend to do and I must say, this is the most positive I think I've ever seen D Falvo on the eve of picking so things must certainly be looking optimistic out on the block.
We also check in with Dr Anne Webster and touch on the Tongan tsumani crisis and the levels of aid that Australia is offering.
Kato Holani who you might know as Kato from the pharmacy was in ICU for weeks after contracting Covid-19.
Kato was unvaccinated. Past tense. Kato didn't believe in coronavirus or the vaccine and thus had even ended her employment because it required her to be fully vaccinated.
Kato has changed her mind.
Kato has also recently lost her mother after she contracted Covid-19 leaving her major organs unable to recover.
Kato has an important message for her Tongan community and the wider community and as always, it great to sit down and have a chat with her.
People are everywhere and no where at the same time.
There are those that are crazy busy preparing for the upcoming grape and nut harvest, those that have gone MIA for the first weeks of the year, and those in isolation because they either have Covid or could possibly have covid and are awaiting test results. It's a really odd time, but we will solider on as we always do.
Next week we hope to have our Federal MP Dr Anne Webster back on the podcast for a chat and you better believe she'll have a lot to say, and we do love a good discussion with her. We always learn something new.
For now though it's just Jade and Ethan having a post festive chat.
We cover all manner of topics this week from the Albanese Christmas Board of Directors to the Euston Micro-Grid to the Robinvale Euston Rangers Cricket Club's farewell to Daryl McClure.
If you'd like to support this podcast, please become a Patron patreon.com/thevalepodcast
We made our way to The Workshop this week for the launch of the new summer issue of Mildura Living Magazine and who do we find? Robinvale's own Ash Falvo!
We find out how life has been for her and what she's doing now.
Charlie also enlightens us on the state of ESTA and what happens when you actually call 000.
We also chat about the Mildura Living tea towels which are now available at The Jack and how everyone is getting one from me for Christmas, because, why not!
There's so much going on this week with the Christmas carnival coming up, the festival of golf and almond classic on this weekend and of course cricket is back in a big way in the Vale so we're trying to celebrate it all.
Jess Smythe is in for kick us off to tell us all about the Christmas carnival, I caught up with Liam Wood at The Workshop as part of our Mildura Living feature for this week and we got some gold from our commentary team from last week's cricket match at Len Arnott oval.
After 16 years the Robinvale Euston Rangers Cricket Club are playing their first home game this weekend at Len Arnott oval in Robinvale.
Luke comes in to chat about it all because everyone else voted that it was his turn, and it was actually a good excuse for us to catch up and have a conversation without the distraction of the kids screaming "Mum... I'm hungry!" "Dad I'm finished doing poos!" "Mum, Parker's being annoying!" So it was actually quite nice.
We also have the second part of our chat with Solunar's Brad Fyfe who had some really positive feedback from his first part and even had some new customers who mentioned they'd heard the podcast and were in to try the vegan dumplings!
I know they wouldn't have been disappointed!
I also discovered the gift of the vegan chocolate chip cookies in my Solunar bag this afternoon and needless to say they didn't make it back to Robinvale! I love those things!
Toni is talking tea towels too which will be available to by just in time for Christmas! Watch this space!
Everyone wanted to have a say, and for someone who used to be quite hesitant to come in for a chat in front of a microphone, Ben Rogers from Pioneer Ford certainly doesn't take much convincing now.
As soon as he found out we were in the studio on Wednesday this week he was straight over the road from the dealership to for a quick spot to send a shout out.
Don't get me wrong, we love having Ben on, especially when Charlie is here because I have a team mate. It's just funny how quickly one develops confidence in front of the microphone with a bit of practise.
Brad Fyfe from Solunar is our Mildura Living Weekly feature this week and I'm so thrilled he is. I LOVE his food.
Now if you you haven’t heard of Solunar, don’t worry, I hadn’t either, until Toni brought dumplings and the Yunnan salad in for a lunch a few weeks ago. So when Toni mentioned that Brad was coming in I was obviously excited for the research that had to be conducted! I like to go into these conversations well prepared and nothing says "prep" with a chef than eating lots of his food!
Since this conversation I have been into Solunar the man who owns the show is running the show. Today Brad was behind the counter so I got the full tour of the facility and met the staff.
When meeting all of their smiling happy faces I asked if he was struggling to find staff, and pleasantly he said not really. Rather than advertise actual positions, he advertises for good people and hence, he has the team he has now.
The food was also incredible. I rate my food by level of profanity that comes out of my mouth after the first bite, and let me tell you that this was not suitable for a family show such as this and I am lucky I was alone at the time.
If you'd like to support this podcast you can sign up to become a VIP at patreon.com/thevalepodcast
There's rumours of a ghostly presence around Euston Station although Bobby has never seen him, but with such history in the place how could Edmund Morey not have some sort of attachment to the place he founded.
We hear more from Bobby in this week's Mildura Living feature and talk to Toni & Sharyn about the new Robinvale Euston tea towels and Mildura Hamper Co which uses all local ingredients and a perfect way to showcase our region to people this Christmas.
Tom Lister is first cab off the rank though as there are nerves aplenty approaching the first home game of the Robinvale Euston Cricket Club. Not because they're concerned about the result, but just because with all of this rain, the carefully renovated and curated pitch may be too wet to play on.
Patience boys, it's a virtue.
If you'd like to support this podcast, become a VIP at patreon.com/thevalepodcast
Robinvale Basketball Association has been working tirelessly to get the season going and the Robinvale Euston Rangers Cricket Club have resurrected the club after approximately 16 years of dormancy so we’re speaking to Leon and Trav next, followed by a Mildura Living feature at Euston Station Homestead with Bobby Hammet.
Euston Station Run… this is the stire that Edmund Morey pegged out in 1846.
1.2 million acres of harsh Mallee land what would eventually become Euston Station and then the township of Euston in 1885.
Euston was sold multiple times throughout the 19th and 20th centuries mainly due to drought and the harsh conditions we still deal with today, but imagine doing that 170 years ago…
Around 1968 Euston Station was sold to the Tyack Family and Euston came to life with the new era of irrigated horticulture.
In 2017 Brett and Bobby Hammet purchased the property and the original log cabin homestead that Morey built in 1848. It was still standing at the time of purchase and since then, but been restored and brought back to life through sheer passion, dedication and good old fashion Mallee grit.
The homestead sits on a private billabong just off the Murray River exactly 5 kilometers from Euston town and is a beautiful B & B & homewares store.
When Bobby tells the story of acquiring and restoring the homestead, you can’t help but at admire her conviction, her dedication and the drive it’s taken to bring it back to the beautiful homestead you see today.
The original claw bath is still in the outdoor bathroom, the tools and artefacts that have been recovered from the ground hang on the wall in the workshop which sparks a visual montage in the minds eye of just want it must have taken to settle and build on this very spot, using the primitive tools we now use as decoration.
And is that Morey’s pipe sitting in his bedroom?
Being at Bobby’s place is instantly relaxing allowing the mind to wander back to 1848 and think about everything that has unfolded through the past 170 years, sitting in the air conditioned & styled comfort of the 21st century.
You may recall see stunning images of it on the front cover of Mildura Living Magazine’s 2020 summer issue and the beautiful feature on the property. This week, Bobby hosted the ladies of Mildura Living whilst I just came along for the ride, and thoroughly enjoyed every minute.
Help support this podcast by becoming at VIP: patreon.com/thevalepodcast
Use the good china, drink champagne from your special glasses, use your wedding knife to cut cake for afternoon tea - just celebrate every little thing you can, because you never know what is around the corner.
It's some of the best advice we could hope for after twenty months of never knowing what we can do tomorrow, let alone in a month's time. Jan Goodieson is a celebrant who speaks of such celebrations in the Spring issue of Mildura Living magazine. She's also one of these humble people who are befuddled when someone wants to "interview" them with claims of no real story to tell.
Rubbish. Everyone has a story, and whence we add a glass of champagne, the stories will flow as well as the bubbles.
Jan talks about her Scottish heritage, her parents blended marriage, meaning Protestant & Catholic, her sister (Sister Phillipa - Anne McMillian) teaching at St. Mary's in Robinvale, and the importance of celebrating every day.
Brad Fyfe of Solunar in Mildura supplied lunch for us at The Workshop Creative which was delicious and we'll be talking to him in a couple of weeks time, but not before the team come to Robinvale / Euston for a tour!
Watch out for women on tour next Friday and Saturday in The Vale.
Kirsten Lloyd is a name you've no doubt seen on many a written piece in Mildura Living Magazine, and you've undoubtably read her work, possibly without even knowing it.
'Twas a joy to sit down and chat to Kirsten at The Workshop Creative about her background, her love for the written word, the creative process and why storytelling is so vitally important for our society as a whole. Deep I know, but it's a real joy to listen too so trust me.
A couple of weeks ago, pre-freedom day announcements, we had a sit down with Seamus Mitchell in the studio at Network House.
Those of us that know Seamo, know that he's generally been a young man of very few words, but he'd have you thinking anything but with this willingness to come in and chat about the year that was.
Mildura Living are the new sponsors of our humble podcast and we could not be happier or more grateful. We're so thrilled to hopefully reach a wider audience up in to Mildura with their partnership and hopefully really lift the profile of Robinvale as a place to visit, live and invest.
If you'd like to help support this podcast you can sign up to become a VIP through aur Patreon channel. You'll sometimes get access to single interviews before everyone else, or exclusive conversations that are never released to the public.
patreon.com/thevalepodcast
The resurgence of the Robinvale Euston Rangers Cricket Club has brought a few former local cricketers, a few very handy cricketers, and the odd international cricketers out of the woodwork willing to chip in whatever it takes to get things happening.
Jamie Siddons is arguably one of Robinvale's most famous modern day exports having had a stellar first class cricket career and going on to coach Bangladesh and also being assistant coach to one of the best Australian sides ever.
We've been talking about tracking him down for a couple of years now, but the search ended when he contacted recently elected club president Tom Lister offering a hand with anything he needed, so this week, Jade, Donny & Tom got to sit down and have a chat with the great man about his memories playing in Robinvale with his Dad, the Manangatang pub and setting Blue Hills on fire.
Our Patron's get to hear it all first because you're our VIP and this edition is without the guff at the start and the end. You just get the good stuff.
The last two years has been the hardest retailers and our hospitality operators will hopefully ever have to deal with, but with our vaccination rates now getting up there, we may be through the worst of it.
We had Al Mitchell in to talk about how the Robinvale Bridge Motel is going, the Jack and whats in store for the summer and something new and exciting in the way of a new accommodation offering for Robinvale.
We also have Kate
in who is the woman in the know as far as the Mildura Dragon Boat Club, Robinvale Chapter goes.
They're always looking for new members, but remember before you get in a boat you need a Dragon Pass with Dragon Boat Victoria and you can do that right here: https://www.dragonboatvictoria.com.au/home/
We also talk about some exciting things that are in the works with Mildura Living, some of the articles in this seasons edition and also the Robinvale Golf Club of course.
We all love one of Charlie's stories that have little to zero relevance to the conversation taking place at that particular time and he doesn't let us down again this week with a little anecdote about koalas!
Just a little warning, there is some colourful language throughout this episode. Nothing terrible, just colourful.
Support this podcast and sign up as a VIP patreon.com/thevalepodcast
There is some language and adult themes in this podcast. We do also actually use the term "wet dream" just FYI.
We’re a little late with this one but there has been school holidays, long weekends and camping trips to be had, so I apologise.
But it was time for something a little different, so I called in a favour from a former colleague.
Matthew Hardy, author, comedian, radio personality & podcast host, and I used to work together at Melbourne’s Nova 100.
He and Lawrence Mooney now host a podcast called Saturday afternoon fever, which is Matthew reading the book he wrote of the same title, and the Moon Man butting in with his own stories.
It’s a great premise for a podcast but I came to learn that Matt actually lived in Robinvale for a time during his mis-spent youth. His policeman Father sent him up here to live with his Policeman brother and pick grapes in about 1990, so there’s a loose local connection, but it was a good excuse for a bit of cross promotion to be honest.
This was recorded a few weeks back when we were possibly still in lockdown and the book was still available to buy, it has since sold out but you can listen to Matt and the Moon man’s podcast Saturday Afternoon Fever, wherever you’re listening to this.
The video will be available for our VIP's only at Patreon: patreon.com/thevalepodcast
Driving around the district right now is glorious! The crops looks wonderful, the bud burst is happening on the vines, the trees are budding and the canola is spectacular.
We thought it was time to check up on rainfall and how the season is looking for our broadacre brethren, so Pete came in for an update and whilst he was here we thought it fitting to find out what's happening at the tennis club too seeing Pete is now the Tennis Club president and a possible contender to put on some pads and play cricket this year as well. Where on earth he's going to find time behind a boat is beyond me, but I'm sure he will and we might get an update on the water from Pete in a few weeks time.
Donny's finally made it back and I think you know as well as I do now that when Donny is here, we don't need guests because we talk between ourselves for 45 minutes.
We discuss all of the important topics too like R U OK? Day, like how good it would be to be playing in a grand final this weekend, how much we're missing sport, the 57% water allocation that Donny and other irrigators are faced with and all sorts of other things that come to mind.
Donny is a starter for the Robinvale Rangers Cricket Club this weekend at training so watch this space. This will be the summer of cricket on The Vale Podcast.
Imagine having your final two years of secondary school taken away from you, by no choice of your own.. Nick Zappia is the school captain at Robinvale College and because of Covid-19 lockdowns, this is what has happened to him, and he's not ok.
... and that's ok. It's to be expected.
This week we talk to Nick & Claudio Gallo who is in year 11 but always doing a year 12 subject on her way to pursuing a career in the health sector.
We also talk about things that are off, things that are on, things that you can watch on Netflix, things that you can listen too and all sorts of things.
I didn't think there was much to talk about, and maybe that's because talking to people face to face is almost a thing of the past, but when you do get together the conversation is quite robust and there's actually a lot to talk about.
The last thing we really want to talk about is case numbers, lockdowns, Covid responses and vaccines, so we don't, at least until the very end. Being a local news media service, we do have to report the relevant news of the day. We can't avoid it, but we can dilute it with some positive news first.
Emily Zappia is the woman responsible for Z & Zee and she's up for several Ausmumpreneur awards and needs your help!
Vote for here in the customer service category here: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/victas21
Everyone has a story. Some are long, some are short. Some are interesting, some have twists and turns, and a thickening plot at every chapter, but everyone has a story. I think that's what I love about having a platform like a podcast. I love learning about people's stories.
Since my early 20's I have lived my life by the motto "It's all about the book". That's a long story and there's a whole presentation on it and everything.
So when you get talking to others that also have a similar motto, there are some great stories to tell. Like Dominic's.
Now, I've been a big fan of Dom's since I met the kid probably about ten years ago and knew he would spread his wings, but also hoped he would always find a path home, and that he has, at least for now.
We had such fun chatting on last week's episode, I invited him back to discuss some topics further, such as the moment he found himself and realised that you are who you are and you don't need to apologise for that, and also about his time in the ARMY!
It's a very interesting chat, and we also cover off on some of the weekly housekeeping things, check in with Kelsey from the Euston Pub and talk about the Rotary Park playground!
Oh and it's our 100th episode - YAY!
It's official, we're collaborating with the Euston Club and The Great Murray River Salami Festival (which has been postponed this year). to bring you The Great Murray River Salami Competition!
The judging format is the same, however, entrants are restricted to postcodes; only the 3549 or 2737 can enter. No one else.
The judges are yet to be announced, but they will be soon. James Mele who is the king judge has committed to being here on the day if covid allows for it.
We also have prize money, kindly donated by the Euston Club!
$500 first prize
$300 second prize
$200 third prize
But the bragging rights that come with winning this competition will be priceless.
You can bring your entries in to either the Euston Club or Network House with your entry form filled in, then either come along to the Euston Club on Friday 24th September 2021 or tune into our YouTube channel on the day to watch the live judging and crowning of salami royalty in Robinvale & Euston.
We're also talking basketball with newly elected President of Robinvale Basketball Association Leon Johnson and talking Ballet Guild with Dominic Mezzatesta.
THIS PODCAST WAS RECORDED BETWEEN 1 & 3PM on THURSDAY 5TH AUGUST.
Circumstances have changed since that time so please take that into consideration.
Before we start, can I just say, DO NOT TRY THIS ON PUBLIC ROADS or any road for that matter. This entire race was done under the supervision of several professionals and highly controlled conditions. Don’t try this at home.
Over the last couple of months, you might be aware that Charlie has been taunting Phil Lammattina about being a less than adequate driver,
“Phil Schmill…”
“I feel like your a bit chicken Phil”
“First loser…”
So after much planning, Phil booked Mildura’s Sunset Strip for a Thursday afternoon, to which Charlie immediately withdrew from the race…
To find out exactly what happened, you’ll have to listen.
Thanks to Charlie for being too chicken to put his money where his mouth is and letting me race, thanks to Phil for being a good sport and organising the track, thanks to Ben and Pioneer Ford for letting us race and supporting the silly ideas we keep having, thanks to Kingsley and Lauren from the Mildura Drag Racing Club and their children for facilitating the day, and thanks to the stand-in Stig, fully kitted out in Nonno’s race suit, genuinely purchased in Italy in the 90’s!
A reminder: don’t do any of the things you heard on this podcast at home or on the road, it was a highly controlled environment supervised by professionals
If you've listened to and like this podcast, please give it a 5 star review, or even better, help us keep it going by making a small financial donation each month.
Yes, I know it's a few days late, I apologise, but these podcast things take a lot of time and energy to produce, something I've been lacking in both areas the last couple of weeks. Add to that, the lack of sleep we're all going through with the Euro's, Wimbledon, the US motocross (that Australian Hunter Lawrence won btw!) and ANOTHER win for the Robinvale Euston Eagles B grade netball team and needless to say there's been a bit on!
We have a date for the Charlootz challenge so we get Phil on the phone to discuss the schedule with Charlie and it doesn't go to plan at all.
If you're aware of a boxer called Michael Zafara, you'll know why I'm now calling Charlootz, Mick!
We also talk to Norsiyah Mokak about the Census which is coming up on the August 10th 2021 so make sure everyone is counted!
As you'll hear in this podcast, I'm taking a couple of weeks off to have a QLD holiday on the GC with the family so no episode next week, but I'm hoping I will have the audio of all of the Charlootz chicken out challenge to come for you the week after that.
This podcast thing is costly in both time and finances so if you'd like to support it by way of a one off donation, or regular membership head to patreon.com/thevalepodcast
We can finally announce that through the State Government's Active Together program, the Robinvale Leisure Centre will be refurbished with $2.95 million in funding!
Mark Gepp, Member for Northern Victoria was in Robinvale for the announcement on Thursday and he even decided to come into Network House to have a chat about it all, and about all of his travels around Northern Victoria this week.
We also have a chat about Generations Early Learning in Merbein which is just the most insanely good model of mixing early learning and aged care!
Then Donny took a break from doing whatever he was doing to talk about our salami competition, footy, netball, rates and water... you know, all of that important stuff.
Become a Patron and support this podcast :patreon.com/thevalepodcast
NAIDOC week will be a big one in Robinvale this year with an art exhibition and competition at the Community Centre.
Dave Lovell (Robinvale Corner Store) is the custodian of two works of Clifford Possum and will have them on display for only the second time, and there are plenty more things in the works but local Aboriginal artists are invited to enter their own works to be displayed alongside and potentially win one of three prizes from the Marawarpina Local Aboriginal Network.
$500 for first prize, $300 for second and $20o for third.
It's been talked about since I've been in local government, and it was there before Dr Webster was elected to Federal Parliament, but we've finally had a win with the 'AG VISA' from ASEAN (Association of South East Asian Nations) countries.
More details on the website and more will follow over the coming weeks, as Dr Webster has indicated that this will be up and running for this years harvest!
Over the weekend, Phil raced at the Winternationals in Ipswich for the 400 Thunder Championship (Australian Championship).
He lost. And Charlie let him know about it.
Competing in the Finke Desert Race is a bucket list item for a lot of people, but it takes a lot of preparation, a lot of mechanical knowledge, a lot of support and a lot of commitment. With the help of Joey Heeps and his astounding mechanical prowess, Berrett's Servo in Euston & Mallee Motorcycles, Broden and Phil Connell will be out there this Queens Birthday Long Weekend, competing against the best enduro and desert racers in the country.
We talk to them after the pre-run on Thursday, before they hit the track before the prologue on Saturday and 2 days of racing Sunday and Monday in some of the most remote and hard conditions you'll find in this country.
It an amazing achievement to get there, let alone to be able to compete and we shall be watching from the live stream over the course of the weekend.
Best of luck boys!
Charlie likes to talk to the talk, it's probably why he's always coming back in to do the pod, but we haven't seen him follow through on walking the walk yet, but he's made another couple of outrageous claims this week.
One being that he'll end up at footy training, Thursday night meals and probably in the seniors.
We have a chat about The Vale Athletic push up challenge. You can donate here: https://www.thepushupchallenge.com.au/team/9318-the-vale-athletic
We also have a chat about expressions of interest in a Covid vaccination hub at Euston via NSW Health. If you are interested, please email aerlandsen@rdhs.com.au
If you'd like to support this podcast, please sign up to become a VIP: patreon.com/thevalepodcast
In this episode you'll hear not a mention of a lockdown, in fact you'll hear us talk about things that are coming up during the week. How quickly things can turn around when you put a little Covid viral germ in the community.
We recorded it on Monday before Jade went away, so you can listen to this without hearing about the lockdown at all, we'll do that next week via zoom!
Ben Rogers is in the chair for Charlie and we talk about The Push Up Challenge, which you can join or donate too. We're raising funds for Lifeline Central Victoria and Mallee.
Get details here: https://www.thepushupchallenge.com.au/team/9318-the-vale-athletic
We also talk to Ricardo who has news about the Bendigo Pioneers, because remember, the kid is still only 17!
Then we talk to Phil about Scotty's departure from the footy club, how it all came about and what happens now.
Robinvale Euston Auskick has 72 children registered as Auskickers - that makes us the biggest in the Sunraysia region and one man is the co-ordinator. My husband, Luke Benham. Bless him.
He's on to talk about Auskick and a few other things.
Ali Cupper has had a couple of weeks from hell and we managed to get her on the phone to talk about it all, and in true Ali style she sure did!
We ran out of time to bring you the full interview but our VIP's have got it all, raw and unedited in the feed now. You can sign up to hear it all here: patreon.com/thevalepodcast
We also take the Pioneer Ford Ranger XLS Sport for a test drive with Charlootz and Ben, because Ben knows about all of the features and it would just confuse Charlie.
Next time we ask Ricardo to come in to have a chat to us, we might tell Donny to stay at home. Honestly, he was like Don King promoting one of his fighters in the 80's! Poor Ricardo could barely get a look in, but the few words he did say should be well noted.
Not only has the young man got ability and dedication to his football, but he's got an attitude that will take him anywhere he wants to go in life.
Speaking of attitude, Tom Lister came in to give me some and to discuss the resurrection of the Robinvale Rangers Cricket Club Inc. It's real and it's happening.
After a board meeting with the Red Cliffs Cricket League this week, Robinvale is back on the board and Tommy is driving this ship.
We also talk to him about footy and about his hard working better half and what he brings to the relationship. Food is the short answer.
To keep things balanced we're also talking about the arts this week with Gerard Veltre from Phunktional Arts who are returning to Robinvale with some of the biggest names in hip hop, dance and the performing arts. Gerard has all the details and it all starts on Monday evening with dinner and a show.
Get all of the details on their Facebook page.
Private Percy Pitt Goullet is my great grandfather. He served in WWI on the Western Front and was awarded the Military Medal for "great courage and daring."
After the war he acquired a soldier settlement property in the Mallee, which is how my Mum’s side of the family ended up in Boundary Bend, or more specifically, Natya.
ANZAC Day is something sacred, and it should be all Australians. Regardless of background, race or religion.
The freedoms we enjoy in 2021, are because of our serving National Servicemen and Women like my Grand Dad Percy, and like our cousin Jason who currently serves in the Australian Navy.
I believe they should be commemorated and honoured each and if you get the chance to sit down and talk with someone who has served, do it. It will change your whole perspective on life. We are about to do that now.
Brian Handreck is the president of the Robinvale - Euston Sub branch of the RSL, and he agreed to come in and have a chat to me about his time in National Service during the Vietnam war, and about this Sunday’s services around the district.
Personally, I am ever thankful to our diggers, our veterans and our current service men and woman and I encourage you to honour them if only in the smallest way possible, by attending an ANZAC service this Sunday.
Robinvale, Euston and Boundary Bend all have the regular services starting at dawn, Euston at 9, the march at 10 and Boundary Bend at 3pm. Details can be found in the Robinvale Sentinel or later in this podcast.
WARNING: THIS EPISODE CONTAINS SOME STRONG COURSE LANGUAGE, ADULT THEMES AND CHILDISH, LOW BROW HUMOUR. You've been warned.
It's been quite a long time since all three of us have been in the same room for some banter, so it was good to have a laugh.
Donny talks about his under 14's, head injuries, his season as far as grapes go and all sorts of things that came up during the morning. He even brought be a coffee from Loft 13, made with real milk, which then brought up another conversation with Charlie about why people with sensitive digestive systems can't have cow's milk. That conversation is even less sophisticated and is reserved only for those with Lunch or Dinner VIP memberships, which you can get here if you'd like to listen to Charlie's story.
Ashley Valinoti is also home from Brisbane for a week to do some ACO-ing and tell us about life in Brisvegas.
Enjoy!
In a former life, on Easter Saturday I could be found down at Bells Beach in the media pit, fully accredited thanks to my mate Sharpy and the Rip Curl crew.
I'd hang out all day just to get a few words with Kelly Slater, the late great Andy Irons, Occy, Mick Fanning, Parko, CJ Hobgood and other BIG names on the World Championship Tour at the time.
Those interviews must have sucked!
Given my geography these days I can be found on the back of a boat, the back of a motorcycle, or more recently, on the ground, out cold after coming unstuck. We'll call that interview research, and I'm not sure if I'm still suffering the concussion, but I think it worked!
This interview and the one we got to do at the mental health awareness event, were pretty epic, but Toby made it easy!
He’s not only brought the sport of off road and desert racing into the mainstream with his ability to be able to win every race he enters, but the fact that he’s 6’2, incredibly handsome and humble makes him very marketable, along his willingness to sit down and chat to anyone about it…
...from kids who idolise him to, international motorsport journos, to this small town podcast host who was over the moon to be given an opportunity like this.
People all over the world love him and he’s inspired kids of all ages, including this big kid to discover and re-discover their happy place on a motorcycle.
We have a lot to thank Toby Price for and I could not be more thankful to him for meeting me at the Euston Pub for a chat, (and Mitch for letting us) before an event on Easter Saturday for Western Landcare, Euston Landcare, Far West NSW Health District and the Regional Adversity Mental Health Program.
Clearly I was a bit nervous which doesn’t normally happen to me… EVER… but I’ll be honest, this whole interview and event was keeping me awake at night in the lead up….
… maybe it was the Red Bull I was drinking, maybe it was because it’s a subject matter I actually really enjoy and know a little bit about, but not many people would know that so I’m giving a bit of myself away and I do not like doing that. I know, most of the time I'm an open book, but doesn't everyone have something they keep for themselves?
Maybe my nervousness was just the fact that he’s more handsome in person than I expected him to be, maybe it’s the fact I wanted to sound like I did know what I was talking about and not just some giggly chick with a school girl crush, seeing I am only the second or third woman to ever interview Toby…
Yes, I have it on record contained within the depths of this interview, Toby Price tells me, I am in his top 3. Job done.
… this is my pub chat with Toby Price OAM.
There is a LOT going on in our patch over the Easter long weekend and the weather is coming to the party too.
Easter Saturday is forecast to be 33 degrees, now if that's not perfect, your definition of the word perfect needs adjusting.
Speaking of Easter Saturday, you'll hear us mention a few times that we don't know if the Toby Price Mental Health Awareness Event will go ahead because of the Brisbane lockdown, but it is and we speak to Thel O'Shea from the Western & Euston Landcare Group who are the hosts of the event along with the Regional Adversity Mental Health program and Far West NSW Health District.
It's set to be a pretty awesome day, and yes, you'll get to meet him after the chat.
There's a whole host of sponsors to thank and you'll see them all on the big screen that will be beside the stage.
The Robinvale Euston Motorcycle Club are cooking a barbie, the Rotary Donut Van will be there and the weather will be perfect so bring the kids for a great day.
Then head over the Robinvale Easter Festival on the other side of the river from 4pm with an Easter egg hunt, twilight market and movie "HOP" on the big screen.
If none of the above takes your fancy you can still enter the Robinvale Lawn Tennis Club Easter Tennis Tournament on Easter Saturday and Sunday.
We talk about it all and plenty more in this week's episode.
We spend a bit of time going over a little incident Jade had last Sunday, even though she didn't initially want to talk about it, Charlie thought it was a good idea to make an example of her.
Probably one of the reasons she hasn't spoken about it too much thus far, that and the old noggin has been a bit soft up until now!
Vicki Broad is in to talk about the Robinvale Lawn Tennis Club Easter Tournament which is an institution in country Victoria at Easter time.
She discusses new entries, the grading system, the food and the entertainment and what kind of prize money you stand to win! A Grade stand to win $300 thanks to the magnificent sponsors of the event!
Head to their Facebook page to register or for more information.
It's literally a case of "take a number'. right now with people wanting to come on this little cast of pod to talk about their events, businesses and things and we welcome you all with open arms.
However, we only have an hour each week but we'll get there eventually,
Charlie is off to Midnight Oil and the footy so again no Charltooz this week, hopefully he'll be back next week because we have a few things to discuss, especially, if, as suspected, Richmond thrashes Carlton this week.
We talk to Anthony about the mental health drop in centre at RDHS, Julieanne and Jess are here to talk about the Easter Festival coming up on Easter Saturday and we hear more from our interview with Emily from the Fight Cancer Foundation at the Swan Hill Film Festival which is just full of terrific films!
Book tickets to that by going to showbizcinemas.com.au
Become a VIP and support the podcast here: patreon.com/thevalepodcast
We've been keeping our traps shut about the announcement that Marie from the Rural Adversity Mental Health Program has to make today.
She's a great lady who travels the great far west of NSW talking about, supporting those who suffer, educating and connecting those with mental illness to services and agencies. She's got a big old announcement to make about an event that is happening in Euston on Easter Saturday, and if you've ever heard the name Toby Price, you'll want to hear this!
Donny also proclaims his desire to coach Robinvale to a premiership and says that when he does, his life will pretty much be complete.
Luke is also in to talk about the Golf Premier League, which is a team league the Robinvale Golf Resort have created and which starts next week. He also fills us in on Auskick and when that starts, how to register etc.
Then Emily from the Fight Cancer Foundation came for a drive up from Swan Hill on Wednesday to have a chat about the 2021 Swan Hill Film Festival, and of course I mentioned that we have a grand old theatre here not being used for much right now and why don't we bring it to Robinvale next year? We talk about all of that and more in this week's 80th episode!
It's no secret that Charlie and I are big fans of live music. It's also no secret that I am a big country music fan, so when I asked Scott Leslie to come in for a chat about Euston Landcare and to bring his guitar, obviously I had motivations other than Landcare.
Although, Landcare is a great organisation doing fantastic things, locally and nationally, Scott is a very talented singer songwriter, so it's about time we have him into the studio to perform!
We also put Ben Rogers on the spot with a beef that Charlie has been carrying for a week and Gavin Quinn is in to talk about the SES and how you can become a volunteer.
Become a VIP and help support this podcast patreon.com/thevalepodcast
It’s been a while since we’ve have storytime so we’re well overdue and this is a cracker to re-open the account!
Domenico Garreffa, better known to some as Don, Uncle Mick or Nonno, was one of 11 children born in Benestare, Reggio Calabria in 1932, making him 89 years old.
I won’t lie, this chat gave me all the feels. My late grandfather has a similar story, as do many of the Italian’s who spent a month or two on a ship to emigrate to Australia post WWII.
Over this podcast, you’ll hear Mr Garreffa talk about losing his older brother in the war, being bitten by a rabid dog, coming out on the ship at 17 and then the hard work they put in to set up the farms in the district.
How on earth can you get almost 90 years of memories, stories and wisdom into a an hour long podcast? You just can’t, but we could listen to Mr Garreffa for days and days and we’d love him to come in again. In fact I’d love to just be a fly on the wall with some of his family around the table and a bottle of his home made vino. Then we’d hear some real stories come out I’m sure.
Dave O’Neil has been in the business of comedy for over 20 years, appearing on TV Shows such as Hughesy- We Have A Problem, The Yearly with Charlie Pickering, Tractor Monkeys, and Spicks and Specks. Dave’s obeservational humor and genuine humility have also made him a much sought-after MC and corporate entertainer. Doug Chappel and Douglas Austin join the line up of the night to make this night of laughs an experience to remember! Get tickets here and stay tuned for a Robinvale date! https://www.coomeallaclub.com.au/book-shows-events
As you would know by now, all of Victoria has been locked down under stage 4 restrictions until midnight Wednesday 17th February 2021.
This means there are only 4 reasons to leave home;
- Essential work
- Shopping of essentials
- 2 hours of exercise within 5km of your home
- Medical care and care giving
Agricultural work is considered essential.
Those living in our Victoria and NSW border communities will continue to be able to access the ‘border bubble’ – using their driver license to prove their residential address. If you live in one of the border communities – you do not need to apply for a permit.
New South Wales border community residents do not need to obtain a permit to enter Victoria.
People may cross the border without a permit to provide, receive or accompany a dependant who is to receive emergency or essential medical care or other urgent care, including medical care requiring continuity of treatment.
This does not include ordinary child-minding, although formal shared custody arrangements can continue. Carrying a medical certificate, letter from a physician or proof of custody arrangements is strongly recommended.
Emergency workers (including healthcare workers, care facility workers and child protection workers) must carry a letter from their employer evidencing the need for that worker to travel across the border, but do not need to obtain a permit in this instance.
You must follow Victoria’s restrictions when entering this state, including wearing a mask in all indoor public spaces, public transport and on all domestic flights.
Masks must now be worn at all times when not at home.
All non-essential retail is closed, but local services can deliver, just contact the business to arrange.
RDHS aged care is closed to visitors, the medical clinics will remain open with number restrictions.
All food outlets are now only offering take away including the Robinvale Golf Club, Rainbow Inn, Robinvale Chinese Restaurant, Jo Jo’s on Bromley, Loft 13, The Jack Bar & Bistro, The Robinvale Corner Store, IThai and Nooey’s Bakery.
All supermarkets remain open as normal.
Please be sure to wash & sanitise your hands regularly and observe good hygiene ne so we can get back to normal life soon.
Watch for further updates in the coming days as soon as they come to hand.
You hear about it from a bloke who knows, Robinvale is having a boom in the real estate market and we talk about that and about how he got into the real estate game with local boy Damian Portaro.
Damian now owns Ray White Real Estate in Mildura and he was going to be Ethan's first stop if he didn't get into the uni course that he wanted, so I figured I'd facilitate a meeting, and Ethan asks the best question I've ever heard him ask a guest!
Charlootz is convinced that no one in Australia gives a toss about the Super Bowl, Jade disagrees, siting that sports fans understand the magnitude of witnessing the greatest quarter-back of all time in action and still winning championships at 43 years old. We shall release a poll on our socials again, so please vote with me and help prove to Charlie that sometimes people care about things that he doesn't.
We also managed to get Maria Abs in the studio to talk about Robinvale Netball season 2021. She thanks the past committee's and coaches and explains the process from here on in. It's all very exciting and you can hear her talk about it all.
Certainly going back to our roots in this weeks episode with Donny on a little hiatus between varieties we managed to get him in for a good chat, and it must be a while since he's had a good yarn because it went for a while. We had a lot to cover though including wanting the rain to hold off, school starting for the year, the labour issue, 97% of water allocation which is having him whistle a very different tune to last year.
He also talks about export markets, footy, basketball, training and doesn't say no when asked about the senior netball head coaching job.
Then Ethan is back for what could be one of his last episodes before heading off to university, They grow so quick, I"m so proud! Our summer intern is off to spread his wings!
Then Phil is in to talk about footy, the new netball coach, the new netball courts, the state of the oval and just the general state of play,
So much to discuss this week and if you've ever whinged about your rates, you should give this one a listen.
We discuss how we might tackle the situation along with hemp, Fiona talks about her porn trafficking days, packing bongs and all sorts of other things you won't hear politicians talk about anywhere else!
If you haven't signed the petition for RATEGATE yet, make sure you do. You can hit the link right here, it takes about 3 seconds and could result in some actual action with regard to a more equitable rates system in Victoria!
Welcome back to The Vale Podcast for another year! This is our third, who'd have every thunk it.
This week Charlie takes a little time out to talk to us in between his other media commitments and he is in fine form. He gets socially excited from time to time.
We talk about the blue-green algae issue downstream of Wentworth, the Australia Day Breakfast and a multitude of other things.
Anne Webster is in also and we quiz her on the Seasonal Workers Scheme, Strong Communities Program, Parliamentary Committee for Friends of making social media a safe place and a lot more.
So much to get through today!
We're all exhausted so it's taken us a couple of takes and little to ZERO editing as we literally recording this Christmas Eve afternoon.
Unpopular Opinions is back, and Seamus Mitchell came in to chat with Ethan and Jade earlier in the week so that's really the highlight!
Kato has a Christmas message in Tongan, Jack has a Christmas message in Vietnamese, with also have Cantonese and Tawainese as well.
Have a safe and happy Christmas from all of us at The Vale Podcast and Network House Robinvale!
We have a new segment called unpopular opinions. Feel free to submit yours, you can do so anonymously if you wish.
The last of our "What do you want to be when you grow up?" series and after chatting with all of the Robinvale College year 12 class of 2020 the defence force was a common thread.
So I thought we'd tap into a valuable and local resource, albeit, he's on the otherside of the planet right now, but he did all of his schooling in Robinvale and is now a Warrant Officer with the Royal Australian Navy.
Jason Hicks has been a guest with us before but now we have our summer intern so we ask him all about joining the ADF from a year 12's perspective and we give him the tough questions that only someone high ranking in the military would know,.
Are UFO's real?
Did the moon landing really happen?
Are all weird objects in the sky weather balloons?
The mental health drop in clinic is now up and running in full swing at RDHS. Anthony comes in to give us an update on how things are running and what you can do should you need to access this clinic.
Essentially, it's just rock up on Monday, Wednesday or Friday between 9:30am and 1pm or call RDHS Primary Care ahead on 5051 8160.
We also managed to get hold of Ali Cupper on a day when Charlie was unavailable for consultation but we did manage to have a chat about the $10million we got for the Robinvale-Sea Lake Road, the Murray Darling Basin Rail Project and the basement of Victorian Parliament House.
Having been stood up by both co-hosts I was delighted to see John Neale walk through the doors of Network House this week. As we all know, John is always up for a chat, always has a story and is so interesting to listen too so it was a great chat.
We also had a call from the CFA to issue reminders that we are into fire restriction season and any lighting of fires on days of total fire ban can result in prosecution to the fullest extent of the law, so we chat about that, and about the dangers of grass fires with Jack and he translates this message into Vietnamese! Yay Jack!
We also had a visit from our Federal Member Dr Anne Webster and one of her staffers who shall now be known as 'Cherry Boy' within the walls of Network House, because he turned up with a box of delicious cherries from Ian in Kerang under his wing!
It's so nice to be on the media trail of politicians when they're in town. Yes, I nerd out a little bit (I think the kids call it "fan-girling" but whatev!) but things like the State Budget that was handed down this week affect every one of us so we did want to talk about that.
We also had some discussions about our free trade deals with China and Indonesia and try to decide whether or not they're worth the paper they're written on.
Ali Cupper also made some time for us this week but it was late on Thursday afternoon so it didn't make the cut for this week's regular episode so you're getting a bonus this week as well.
Our VIP;s get it first and get the full version though so sign up to support us at patreon.com/thevalepodcast
It's been a while since we've had an update from the blocks so we're giving it to you this week.
Fred is in to discuss the demise of mainstream media, the China export market and multiple other issues whilst Donny gives us his point of view on the AFL trade period, his stress levels, the fundamentals of farming and plenty more.
The regular podcast feed only has about half of each conversation, if you'd like to hear them in full you can sign up as a Patreon from as little as $5USD per month at patreon.com/thevalepodcast
What do you want to be when you grow up?
A rapper, a dancer, an ambo, a mechanic? We're talking about it all today!
Norto is in to talk about becoming an Ambulance Community Officer in Manangatang and he also discusses the pizza at the Manang Pub. He promises to come back and review the parma next week so hold your breath for that one.
Skip Rogers from Pioneer Ford also pops in to talk about his progression from a school based apprenticeship to possible retirement before the age of 40. That's a joke but he makes a good point about being in his early 20's with the beginnings of a real estate portfolio whilst his university studying mates are living on noodles, obtaining degrees that they may or may not ever use.
Then Phil Egan, the dancer and the rapper is in to talk about his career that has taken him all around the world, his struggles, his downfall and his rise again to happiness. We also play his new track and roll out his rapper name "Crooked TP". We talk about why he's come up with that stage name too.
Loads to listen too and in the next day or so you can watch the uncut video from our zoom chat with Phil, but only if you're a VIP (very important patron). become one here: patreon.com/thevalepodcast
Anthony Cardin MBBS. BMedSc. MMed. FRANZCR FAANMS went to school at St Mary's Robinvale and then at Robinvale Secondary College. Since then his education has continued and finally after 20 years of post Robinvale education, he is suitably qualified in his chosen field.
This is a fascinating chat with a former local about life saving technologies in the medical field and what led him to study in this area and grow his career in nuclear medicine. When we think of "nuclear" medicine, I don't know about you, but I think of things like Chernobyl, but that's a reactor explosion. Nuclear medicine doesn't use things like uranium or plutonium and we do dive into that with Anthony because I just couldn't get my head around it.
Anthony has travelled the world with this skills and still returns to Robinvale for holidays to see family.
He's such an interesting person, and one of those genuinely good people who want to help others. You know, a doctor type.
Support this podcast by becoming a patron from just $5usd per month patreon.com/thevalepodcast
It's a pretty significant week this week.
The last of mental health month, the last of the 42K for 42K campaign, the weekend of a long awaited Shadow Rock reunion, the first week of vote counting in local government elections & the week Donny got his big break on SEN with Garry Lyon and Tim Watson. You can listen to it here AFTER you've listened to this podcast first.
Donny just happened to be in town so her came in for a chat which was nice to get the band back together.
We also got to go and explore the new and operational FREE drop in centre at Robinvale District Health Services. This is a brilliant and unique service for RDHS with the free drop in centre for mental health services now running on Monday's, Wednesday's and Friday's from 9am - 2pm. No appointment or referral necessary and it's absolutely free for absolutely everyone! So with that being said, Luke's project has been a screaming success, all that is left is for him to make good on his word as he always does, and get out and run those 42kms this Saturday!
Good luck.
In the interests of talking about all sorts of careers, career paths etc we thought we'd complete a little project with Manangatang P-12 VCAL students.
They have created their own podcast so with the help of Scarlett who is not our official correspondent on the street, we had a brief to fill and fill it we did.
We each had to do a news story, write and produce commercials for local businesses and find someone to interview.
Kale & TB did a great job with their interviews scoring chats with two local Manangatang legends Rod "Codmac" MacKenzie and Jeff "Gibbo" Gibson.
Charlie and I had Robinvale local legend and Gary Ablett Junior look alike Ben Rogers.
Scarlett has done the most incredible job with her news report I can't encourage you more to check out the full video on our YouTube channel.
We end obviously with a chat about a little game being played this weekend. In fact, two games being played this weekend.
Ben may end up having to wear a Richmond jumper for a week if the Cats lose.
We shall see you on the otherside, we know have to go deep dive into Dimma's strategies and tatics for Saturday's game, then prepare to back it up for Sunday's match against the Panthers which could possibly be the G.O.A.T Cameron Smith's final game. In Dimma we trust - Go Tiges!
I feel into media because a teacher once told me I wouldn’t amount to anything unless I could find a job talking for a living. You can do that you know.
It got me thinking about how our senior students are feeling this year. Stressed, ripped off, confused, so for the next month or so we’re going to be talking to different people about their careers and how it came to be.
I ended up working in the media for a lot of my working life thus far and In my experience, even in life generally, people change.
Sometimes for the better, sometimes for the worse.
Sometimes, people don't change much at all.
This week I’m chatting to one of these people.
He’s at the top of his game which is sports photography, he went to school in Swan Hill, he was a student at SuniTafe..
He’s also the same guy that I knew as kids. He has not changed. Not one bit. He hasn’t even lost any hair!
He’s taken some of the most remarkable and recognisable photos of the AFL of our generation and still considers winning the 2003 premiership with Lake Boga as one of the best days of his life.
He’s as humble as he is talented, and he’s my cousin.
He is Head of Photography and Chief Photographer at the AFL. He is a Golden Quill winner & Ted’s Master, he is Michael Willson.
Check out his stunning work here: michaelwillson.com
patreon.com/thevalepodcast
Liam is the Ambulance Victoria PCSC who is co-ordinating some Shocktober workshops and information sessions.
Throughout 'Shocktober' we're on a mission to ensure all 6.7 million Victorians are armed with the knowledge of what to do in an emergency - how to perform basic CPR and, importantly, how to locate and use their nearest Automated External Defibrillator (AED). Sadly, only 1 in 10 Australians survive a cardiac arrest. Together we can improve cardiac arrest survival rates by learning CPR and locating our local AEDs. A local paramedic will be hosting an online session to teach you these lifesaving skills and about the new AED that has been donated to your community.
To sign up to the session, simply email your name and location to swanhill.pcsc@ambulance,vic,gov,au
Scarlett is also back at school so she talks about her school holidays, home schooling and the joy of being amongst friends again, then we have a proposal for her to be our junior reporter!
This is it! A showdown between Charlie and Victorian leader of The National Party Peter Walsh MP.
Actually, it wasn't much of a showdown at all. Peter spoke, Charlie listened and didn't argue with Walshy like he argues with the rest of us. Or is it just me he argues with because he knows I'll fire up,. It's ok, I've taken up meditation to deal with it. I'm fine.
We had a great conversation with Peter though. We talked about all sorts of things like how the Coalition would've done things differently, planning, decentralisation, pathways to permanent residency for refugees and he did say at the conclusion that he had thoroughly enjoyed himself. Tick!
You may have also seen a petition on some business counters around town calling for shade sails in the Ritchies IGA supermarket car park.
By know you know I like facts., I like science and I like facts and I always go straight to the source to get the facts rather than assume. So we did. I called Alan and asked him if he'd come on and chat about it, and he's a big supporter of the podcast and of Robinvale so of course he didn't hesitate. It's an interesting chat and I hope you listen to it.
Then Charlie gives us an update on Shocktober.
Did you know there's Shazam for frogs?
Well there is and Mallee Catchment Management Authority is asking you to help monitor frog activity in our area.
Frogs are cute and clever little creatures and recently Mallee CMA have been giving away headlamps and frog ID books to help our Citizen Scientists track and identify frogs. We have 2 giveaway packs including a headlamp and frog ID book, and all you have to do is draw us a frog and post to our Facebook page, Instagram or email via our website.
David Fevaleaki is the brains behind Backpicker, which is a new website aligning jobseekers in the agriculture industry with labour. The website is easy to use, it offers transparency for job seekers and shows exactly where the employment hot spots are.
We also have his founder Ofir Kuberman on the phone from Melbourne to talk about the parallels between the Australian agriculture industry and the industry in Israel and also the platform itself.
You're bound to learn a thing or two this week, so buckle up.
This week’s podcast is a little different again due to lack of a co-host. Charlie and Donny are both busy working so I’ll do what I can to make it interesting.
I had a chat to Ali Cupper for an update on easing of border restrictions, being able to use the river, go camping and go on staycations then it turned into a conversation about the monarchy and how we should be thinking about becoming a republic, which then turns into a conversation about Harry & Meghan, Harry’s paternity and we truly give New Idea a run for it’s money…
Then we’re letting you in on Nathan Burke’s conversation we had last week on the R U OK live stream which was such an interesting chat and he’s a big supporter of the 42K project too which is awesome.
So that’s it for this week, if you would like to come and talk about anything in particular please contact us via the website or socials
This one is a little bit different with Jack & Mr Van having a conversation style update in Vietnamese about the easing of restrictions in regional and rural Victoria.
At short notice Kato always makes herself available to bring us news in her language of Tongan.
Today it's an update on moving to the next step out of restrictions for regional Victoria.
Get more info on our website: thevalepodcast.com.au
I truly love that we get phone calls now from our MP's just wishing to have a chat about what is going on up here. Rural and remote areas just don't rate a mention in the main stream media so now, more than ever, this podcast is helping to fill a gap on what is happening here, and who is fighting for what causes for us.
Dr Webster called this afternoon just for a chat and I'm so glad she did so we could ask her a few questions like;
"Do you think we'll be able to ski in the river this summer?"
"Is Donny able to drive to Shepparton to get chemical?"
"Is a treatment for Covid being worked on as well as a vaccine?"
"What the hell is Daniel Andrews thinking?"
As a little prelude to tonight's R U OK live streamed event, here's a chat with Dr Webster we got to have moments ago!
Anita from RDHS called us this morning with some much needed positive news. You heard it here first!
This week we get a little preview into what may, hopefully turn into a junior basketball season of sorts when Leon fills us in with the plan as it sits right now.
Noah is also hanging around the Clontarf Academy Room so he pops in for a bit of a chat about what he's been up to and how he's feeling having his senior year & all of the celebrations that come with that, taken away.
Then we talk to Matt Newlands about R U OK? Day which is next Thursday. The podcast will be a live streamed event on that evening from 7pm to 9pm, and you'll ONLY be able to watch it if you've bought a ticket so head to the RESP website to get that done.
Matt talks to us about his experience with SA Pol and the events that led to him suffering PTSD and depression and the importance of a conversation.
Our Patrons get the entire uncut conversation including a tale from the police days.
If you'd like to support the podcast by becoming a Patron and getting all sorts of interesting extras sign up here from as little as $5USD per month.
Charlie has been absent for a couple of weeks having a little procedure that apparently everyone of a certain age should have. I wasn't aware of this health requirement so we did have a chat about it and I even got to see the photos! The internal photos, but that is still an image that cannot be unseen.
Given the announcement of the borders opening up again next week we thought we really should catch up with our local members who are always so gracious with their time, despite the fact that Dr Webster is in Canberra sitting in Parliament and Ali having to research the rise of facism. I'm not even joking, I wish I was, but I am not.
Ali also gives us a little insight into the hand over of the Mildura Base Hospital and I present, what I think is a fantastic idea to Anne Webster for her to take to the Minister for Water & Environment.
Next week we're talking bees and basketball!
If you'd like to support this podcast and hear the entire interviews uncut head to patreon.com/thevalepodcast
The podcast is a little different again this week, with myself being in lockdown waiting on test results, Charlie’s been in hospital for a procedure and the weather making everyone feel a little bit…. Meh… it’s a good opportunity to have another important conversation.
Last week we started with Marie, Ebony and Shirl about the Black Lives Matter movement and what it means for local Aboriginal people.
This week is the second part of that conversation where Marie really starts to open up about having her babies in the 60’s, things her husband has seen as a Cultural Heritage Management officer, and the connection our First Nations People have with Country, and how that continues to flow down through generations, even to Ebony’s 4 year old son now.
Support this podcast by becoming a patron via Patreon for as little as $5USD per month. This helps pay for things like website hosting, paying subscription fees to the RSS feed, subscription fees for waveform sites and all of the other costs that are associated with producing a podcast each week, month and year. We appreciate your support.
Sign up here: patreon.com/thevalepodcast
*A warning to Aboriginal & Torres Strait Island people, this episode talks about people who have passed away.
Right now is an incredibly important time in history, not just because of the pandemic, but also because there are monumental changes afoot in Australia as far as reconciliation goes. It won't happen overnight, but the past 13 years have seen all sorts of progression, but racism still exists, and it exists everywhere.
We talk to Aunty Marie, Shirly & Ebony about this, about their experiences, about their opinions on the Black Lives Matter movement, the protests and how we can move forward.
Heavy topics I know, but we also have a laugh and talk about the old days growing up.
It turned into a long conversation so this is the first of two parts, the second you will get next week.
If you'd like to support this podcast you can become a VIP from as little as $5USD per month. Sign up at patreon.com/thevalepodcast
Our podcast looks very very different again this week, removed from our cosy home at Network House simply because of my eldest having the sniffles and obviously I wanted to be a responsible parent and not have my boy made a poriah I’ve kept both kids and thus myself at home and away from other good folk this week, which means this chat with Sargent Brett McLouglan of Robinvale Police was done over zoom without the other fancy gear, I’ve tried as hard as possible to improve audio quality, so I do apologise but Sargent Brett has some very valuable information regarding penalties regarding Covid and those drug raids that happened in the area a couple of weeks ago.
See the whole uncut video chat if you're a VIP. If you're not, become one patreon.com/thevalepodcast
It's taken almost a whole year to get Colin Hicks in for a chat. Needless to say he's had a fair amount on his plate, and he's been quite nervous, but after his son Jason Zoomed in from his post in Dubai a few weeks ago, Col agreed to come into Network House for a cuppa and chat after he got out of isolation.
After 45 years as a paramedic in Robinvale, Col is currently transitioning to retirement which leaves a big gapping hole in the intricately woven tapestry of the Robinvale Ambulance Service, however, he doesn't leave without a succession plan and that is his grand-daughter Emma who beings her secondment in Robinvale next week.
Noel Costa also warms up his vocals with a sing-a-long before discussing jobkeeper 2, the tax requirements around different payments now and other tax things that confuse people that don't have commerce & finance degrees.
Lots to talk about and our last one in the same room for at least six weeks as we begin lockdown 2.0
With regional Victoria going back to Stage 3 restrictions today, it's important to keep the entire community up to date, and we are lucky enough to have many multi-lingual friends in Robinvale.
Jack Dang regularly gives us the update on the Vietnamese Dong and it's value, and keeps his community up to date with local news in his native language.
This week is a run down of the rules and guidelines around Stage 3.1 Restrictions in Robinvale.
The lovely Kato is in again to keep us updated on stage 3 restrictions and the rules around face coverings and travel.
She does it all in her native Tongan and asks questions along the way.
Thanks Kato!
"The devil is in the detail" says Dr Webster and she's absolutely right. We don't have a huge amount of details but we do know that because of the work of Dr Webster, Ali Cupper, Nathan Hancock CEO of Citrus Australia and our cross border commissioners , that seasonal workers with visas now qualify for border zone residents permits, allowing the citrus industry in particular to get back to work.
Our $1.4 Billion dollar industry has been in turmoil since NSW closed it's borders to Victoria and we finally have a solution as far as our labour workforce goes.
Dr Webster also has some news on the ACCC inquiry into the water market, including four large investors in the Murray-Darling Basin who are named in the report, including Kilter Rural, Duxton Water, Argyle Capital Partners & Aware Water.
You can read the entire interim report here.
This week we have two podcast debutantes, not that we haven't tried to have Mr Smith on twice before. He's alluded us until now, but he's in to give us an update on the situation facing the Robinvale Golf Club right now. He also let's us in on a little secret about golf lessons with Shane McHenry who is the Club Professional at Murray Downs Golf & Country Club, down the road.
Jack also gives an update 0n Network House and Seasonal Workers border permits from worker that have been crossing the river this week. He has the details, and he has the sewing machine out.
Finally we'd like to welcome brand new podcast sponsor Fisher Developments who are responsible for the beautiful new Irymple hub and we discuss the possibility of a new development in Robinvale which is more exciting that Tay Tay's new album, which also get's discussed, as does Charlie's birthday and the beautiful blue R-Spec Mustang which is looking for it's forever home at Pioneer Ford.
Support your local podcast by becoming a VIP (Very Important Patron) at patreon.com/thevalepodcast
It's important to us that we don't just keep the English speaking community up to date with the rapidly changing situation right now, but as many different language speaking community members as possible.
Thankfully for the 'Tongan community in Robinvale, we have Kato who is more than willing and able to help out with news in language.
Topics covered in this quick update;
- Masks are now mandatory for Victoria from Sunday
- Seasonal worker permits
- Active Covid-19 updates
Support this podcast by becoming a Patron patreon.com/thevalepodcast
A politician, a paramedic, a Naval officer and a farmer sat down for a chat...
Sound like the beginning of a joke doesn't it? It's not, it's this week's podcast! And just a word of warning, the language is a little loose in this one so parental guidance is recommended for those under the age of 15.
This is our 50th weekly episode! Hooray and given that 80% of Australian podcasts don't go over 10 episodes, we're incredibly proud to reach 50 already!
However, community broadcasting is more critical than ever, as is fact finding and conversations, so we will keep pushing onward and upward from here.
We had to catch up with Ali to answer some more questions about the border closures and use of the Sturt Highway and Donny gets all fired up about his ol' mate Daniel Andrews!
Jason Hicks, Colin's eldest child and if you ask Tracey or Sam they will say the favourite child, has been deployed to Dubai on a 6 month mission so we wanted to find out what on earth is going on in the Middle East to warrant calling a Warrant officer back OS. He wouldn't tell us and that's fine. I don't think we need anything else to worry about, but we did have a good catch up with Jason and will do again before he gets home.
Anita from RDHS is in again to let us know that face masks are now mandatory within RDHS and we're more than happy to live with that.
Then we talk about taking some mental health leave and coming for a run with us this weekend.
It's full! FULL I tells ya, but we did have a laugh and that is all we can ask for at the moment.
You can hear the full 30 min+ interview with Ali & see the Zoom chat with Jason if you're a VIP now on your Patreon feed. If you're not a VIP, you can become one here: patreon.com/thevalepodcast
Getting messages out in as many languages as we can is important to us given we live in such a diverse community and Kato is kind enough to donate her lunch hour to update her community in language.
If you would like to offer your services to broadcast important messages in language, please feel free to contact us.
Keeping up with the rule changes regarding our border communities is a battlefield, but we're trying to keep you up to date the best way we can.
Here is Dr Anne Webster, Federal Member for Mallee on the reopening of the Sturt Highway.
Did you know there's a mini series being filmed in Robinvale right now?
Gerard Veltre from Phunktional Arts is on the phone, because he's directing the whole thing via Zoom! The things we do during iso!
Aunty Rose also came in for a chat, although Charlie may not have quite explained what a podcast exactly is, but it was well worth it.
Yes, it's a long episode, but seriously, what else have you got to do?
Become a Patron patreon.com/thevalepodcast
We've all heard about the plight of parents whilst trying to juggle the pressures of home schooling, but it's taken a while to get hold of any young people to give us their perspective.
Maybe it's fear of embarrassment, but that's not what we're about here. It's just having a conversation that everyone gets to hear, so Miss Scarlett came in to give us her perspective and to show up her Uncle, and tell some stories out of school about her parents! Sorry Lucy! :-) But your daughter is hilarious!
Leanne Adcock, Director of Clinical Services at RDHS is in for a Covid update for us also and we always love catching up with Leanne who has been at RDHS now for almost 25 years!
Recorded and streamed live to our Facebook feed & YouTube channel at 1pm Wednesday 8th July 2020.
The audio didn't work the way we wanted it too in the live stream with Ali Cupper MP - Independent for Mildura this morning, in fact, I'd give myself a fail when it comes to driving the desk today.
I feel like Deano from Nova 100's Chrissie, Sam & Browny!
However, I did record the conversation which is available in your podcast feed now, but if you still haven't figured out podcast feeds, we have this fancy little waveform video for you.
After a big LIVE podcast at Robinvale Appliances and Furniture Zone, Charlie has expressed great interest in a Sunbeam Air Fryer. You can still catch up on the live session on our Facebook page along with video.
This month we have a new major sponsor in Pioneer Ford which is lucky because Charlie has been saying for a while now that he belongs on the payroll. He's not on the payroll still but I think he feels better.
This week we're talking about becoming an ACO (Ambulance Community Officer) with Ash and about Covid AGAIN with Anita and about balls with Charlie...
The EOFY sale is almost done at Robinvale Appliances and Furniture Zone so we went for a sit on the couch and a chat to talk about all of the specials and deals that are still available but you better be quick!
Football, politics, import permits and tax!
Listen up, you may learn quite a bit this week.
It has been quite an eventful week in Robinvale so we thought we'd get to the bottom of it all, or at least try. No Donny. No Charlie. So very few LOL's, but lots of information, and information is very valuable.
You may've seen on our socials this week, a chat with Mayor Cr Bill Moar about the Bromley Road project which ultimately didn't fit into the regular episode this week.
However, if you're a VIP you would've already seen the full conversations with Dr Webster, Cr Moar and Phil about the SFNL season 2020 withdrawal.
If not, you'll get most of it here now and we finish off with Noel's Top 5 tax tips for this time of year, so you're also getting free advice.
If you'd like to get hold of Noel for more advice you can find him at Southern Cross Business Advisers and all of those details are on our website.
Become a VIP (very important Patron) here: patreon.com/thevalepodcast
After last week's Live At The House show we're thinking about making that a regular thing, so if you know of any local muso's that would like to play for us, have them get in touch.
This week though we're talking to Luke about his physical and mental health now that he's into the actual "training" phase of preparing for his run.
We're also chatting about the first actual significant group run which is happening this Saturday 13th June at the Robinvale Community Centre.
Then we chat to Jack about our new space which has been provided by Robinvale Network House and the opportunities that will present themselves when Network House re-opens to the public.
We're getting a little bit of relief this week in the form of food and music, two of my favourite things!
Luke Benham is in to talk about the 42K for 42K Fundraising campaign for local mental health services which is really starting to gain momentum, and Kim Natale from Robinvale Estate is in with a BEAUTIFUL bag of goodies to talk about how her business is going to help support the cause. You can go to robinvaleestate.com.au right now to purchase some of these magnificent products all whilst helping out with much needed donations toward the $42K goal.
Paul Costa doesn't ever need much convincing to bring his guitar and voice around to a microphone so when I ran into him at Loft 13 in the morning and he expressed how quiet he was due to Covid-19 and asked him to come in, I certainly didn't need to ask twice.
He's in to settle the discussion about Charlie stealing his limelight once upon a time and to play a couple of tunes for us because we're all desperately missing the live music scene.
Patron's can get the live recordings of these tracks now in their feed.
Become a Patron now: patreon.com/thevalepodcast
If you're looking to learn something new every day, then spread this week's episode over the course of a week, because you're about to be schooled.
Dr Webster stopped by Robinvale Network House this week for a cuppa & afternoon tea from Loft 13. It's so nice to be able to hear from our representatives for actual conversations, and then deliver them to you, because as much as sometimes you may not agree, it's always much more informative than a 4 second sound bite we get on traditional media.
We cover a lot of topics such as the Pacific Islander Worker Scheme, re-opening the State borders, the challenge that presents itself when working down the funnel from a Federal level, her new office opening in Swan Hill, healthcare, and plenty more. In fact, there is even more for our VIP's (Very Important Patron's), so if you'd like to become one and hear the full conversation, you can do that here.
We also catch up with Mark Gepp MP, Member for Northern Victoria about the Community Sport Sector Short Term Survival Package that is now available through the state government for sporting leagues & associations.
Then Kady comes in to give us a wrap up of her running campaign. She's doing the Run4Heroes to raise money for Victoria Police Legacy. An organisation taking care of the families who are left behind when a member of Victoria Police is killed in the line of duty. She's joining Luke's running group on Saturday morning and what a brilliant way to finish the month if we had a massive group, physically distanced and split into groups of 10 to help her across the line.
Lots to get through, and Donny & Charlie are in fine form this week.
It's the end of May, so you're no doubt thinking about tax time, write off's and how to get the best bang for your buck. Luckily for all of us, Souther Cross Business Advisers are sponsors of this podcast and Noel is a Robinvale boy so he has some valuable advice. Jade has some silly questions, but as Noel says, "There's no such thing as a silly question" so we may as well as them.
Then we catch up with Ali Cupper, not about State restrictions or Covid-19, but about a funding announcement for Robinvale which is sensational.
We also talk about the hospital and some survey's that we'd like you to take to shape the future. You can take the service survey here - Engage Victoria.
Or the BRANDING survey, before end of play on Friday 22nd May here.
Become a patron here: patreon.com/thevalepodcast
Last week was a warm up for our story teller Norsiyah Mokak. She spoke about her project in response to Covid-19 and her Community Program which is supported by the Robinvale Employment Hub so this week, she’s well warmed up.
This week Norsiyah talks about growing up in the Northern Territory, her struggles, being a teenage Mum, and dealing with grief and loss as a Mother.
I could’ve sat and chatted with Norsiyah all day, and if it hadn’t been for pre-school pick up, I would have.
A word of warning though, there are some heavy topics such as the death of children, pregnancy loss, miscarriage and suicide so if any of this conversation is triggering for you, please see the links to services below.
Also a warning for our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander listeners – this episode does talk about people who have passed away.
SANDS - Miscarriage, stillbirth and newborn death support.
Miscarriage Support Australia
Beyond Blue
LifeLine
Network House is such a vital community service that probably doesn't get the attention it deserves, so it was a pleasure to be asked to do a LIVE podcast event to give a lot of context to the House that so many people have relied on.
We were lucky enough to be joined by former Network House Co-Ordinator Carolyn Martinussen, present co-ordinator Jack Dang and committee chair Quentin Norton to talk about the programs that have previously been run, maybe run into the future and we also draw the winner of the Facebook competition as well as announce the winning bid on cardboard Charlie!
It's been Neighbourhood House Week around Victoria, so it was a lovely way to end the week and celebrate such a brilliant service to our community.
If you need to contact Network House Robinvale, you can do that through the Facebook page or find all of the relevant contact details there as well.
Norsiyah Mokak runs the Robinvale Employment Hub and First People's Institute.
During Covid-19 she has been taking care of her clients and community with care package deliveries on Friday afternoons. This is a three phase program which includes fruit, vegetables, baking, warmth & comfort and phase three which is yet to be announced.
She's also got a really interesting life story, as most of us do, but we get to that story in part two, which will be next Wednesday (20th May 2020).
For now we're chatting to Norsiyah about all things employment, training and taking care of each other when times are tough.
Find Norsiyah's company - First People's Training Institute on Facebook.
It would be remise of us to let Mother's Day go by without checking in with our Mum's, so we got Nancy in with Donny and Mary with Charlie to answer some questions about being Mum to these two fine young men you hear before you.
Both of these fabulous women started out a little nervous but that didn't last long, and it didn't take long for the stories to start to flow.
Mother's Day will be a little different from most years, but we hope yours is a lovely day regardless of where you are.
Happy Mother's Day
Kady Moore is a member of Victoria Police, however, we're chatting to her today as Kady, she's not representing VicPol, not that anything she says or does would incriminate her, but maybe some of the people she's talking to on this episode it might!
Last week, along with every other member of VicPol and indeed every member of the force throughout Australia felt the blow of losing four of their own last week in the horrific accident in Melbourne.
This has lead Kady to join a group of other Victoria Police in running in honour of the fallen four, and to raise money for the organisation who is tasked with caring for Police families - Victoria Police Legacy.
What do Victoria Police Legacy do?
Victoria Police Legacy supports:
- Members of the police family who have lost a partner who is a serving or retired sworn member of Victoria Police, Protective Services Officer or recruit in training.
- Serving or retired sworn members and Protective Services Officer who have lost partners.
- Resigned Members, who fall into one of the above categories, if they have served more than 20 years with Victoria Police.
- Members who have lost a child aged 21 years or younger.
- Parents of serving members of Victoria Police and Protective Services Officers where that member was not in a relationship at the time of their death.
- Members, their partners and families and Police Legatees experiencing grief and hardship caused by imminent or actual death or permanent (prolonged) disability.
You can help Kady and the other member of VicPol who are "Running 4Heroes" by donating here, and keep and eye on the Facebook page and each week of the podcast for updates on her progress and more details.
We also catch up with Ali Cupper this week and try not to drop the "C" word, but she tried to clear up some of the cross border questions and she has some news hot off the press about the water pricing rules and consultation periods.
Then, in an exclusive, Charlie offers to lead our newest sponsor from Southern Cross Business Advisers and his band of brothers, pun fully intended, in a Shadow Rock reunion for a virtual podcast live concert!
It's funny though, Noel & Paul must be out of range, they're not calling me back!
Thanks once again to Robinvale Appliance and Furniture Zone for being our major sponsor and Southern Cross Business Advisers for being smaller sponsors this week - it's greatly appreciated.
The Federal Government has created all sorts of stimulus packages to help ease the economic burden of Covid-19, and Noel Costa is our guest to speak about them this week.
Everyone knows Noel - he's probably your accountant.
Noel is one of the partners at Southern Cross Business Advisers, and he has some free advice for you.
He doesn't say it, but he thinks a good investment would be to become a VIP (Very Important Patron) of The Vale Podcast and help keep us running.
You can do that here: patreon.com/thevalepodcast
Donny is finishing the very last of his picking, Charlie is in mourning over not being on his Coachella holiday, and I have been off the farm twice in the past three weeks.
Needless to say, things are a little slow for some of us right now, but never fear… Donny will be back next week and we shall be talking to Noel Costa about all of the Government Subsidies and stimulus packages available for everyone, blockies, casuals, the self employed etc etc.
This week though, I thought I’d feature this little chat I had with a bloke called Mick.
Mick is the marketing and commercial partnerships manager at Bendigo Stadium Limited, who are the home of the WNBL team the Bendigo Spirit.
Last year, I got a call from him with an idea to bring the Spirit to the region, to do all of that stuff that national sports organisations and athletes should do. So I will ask him the question, but first we got a little nostalgic, as happens when you’re chatting with old friends.
Next week Donny will be finished picking and after our conversation this week, he’s in pretty good spirits… Charlie will be around somewhere and we shall see if we can check in with him too and get his cardboard cut out auctioned off!
For now – stay home, stay safe and support local business.
This podcast is a Clear Eyes Media Production.
Become a VIP and support this podcast : patreon.com/thevalepodcast
Homecourt is available here
Leanne Adcock is such an asset to Robinvale and this podcast is a great example why. She gives us the reasons why adhering to the rules of isolation and distance are so important over the Easter period, not just for your own family, but for the entire community.
She's so interesting to listen to and a wealth of knowledge, so it's terrific to have her on this week.
We're also off to the UK this week to check on Boris... Not really, but another Robinvale ex-pat Tony McKay reached out last week after hearing Bruce Ruddick on and offered to have a chat, so we pounced on the opportunity.
Have a happy Easter and stay home!
patreon.com/thevalepodcast
On Friday there were some announcements by the Prime Minister about Working Holiday Maker requirements and accommodation regulations. What he’s quoted as saying is true & correct, however, we already know that housing is an issue among our agricultural work force, but having the ability, resources and funds to patrol over crowding and enforce the rules is where it falls apart.
In his statement he said local governments will be observing these health rules and working with the states and territories to put these conditions in place.
So on one hand, this may be actually a great long term fix, but are the Commonwealth Government going to help local government administer this?
I must once again thank our State and Federal MP’s for being so accessible to this podcast, and myself as local Councillor. The flow of information being able to get to public ears is extraordinary when we’re all working together for the same outcomes, and that is to ultimately keep our communities safe.
Remember though, this is a Clear Eyes Media production… not a Council project and all opinions expressed are my own and not that of Swan hill Rural City Council.
This week’s podcast set up is a little different but we’re doing the best we can in these “unprecedented times”…
It’s all happening over Zoom, which is great, but living on an isolated farm with patchy internet at best makes Netflix a little frustrating, much less trying to record a quality sounding podcast.
But we’ve managed to piece together all sorts of interesting bits from all over the world.
Starting with Anita, the primary health manager at Robinvale District Health Services, also Norto & Charlie for another quick update before Zoom completely cut out and then were heading to the Napa Valley California to talk with former Robinvale lad Bruce Ruddick!
Bruce was born and bred in Robinvale, he grew up here, played footy here, and was educated in the region…
He now lives in Napa Valley California working in the wine industry and we managed to catch him for a lovely drop of Malbec and a chat.
Apologies for the dodgy network connection and ultimately poor quality, but we’re doing the best we can…
Finally Quentin and Charlie wanted to have a quick catch up…
Gosh, reading through some of the absolute rubbish and people just blindly making things up on Facebook this evening just has me shaking my head.
Firstly, because people do just make things up, and secondly because people believe it.
We don't do that here. I don't like sentences that start with the word "apparently" so we go straight to the source and at times like these, that is the government, and our representatives on Government, both State and Federal are both friends of the podcast and both spared some of their time for us today which we truly appreciate.
If you like what The Vale Podcast is doing and want to help support us please head to our Patreon page and become a Patron from just $5USD per month.
patreon.com/thevalepodcast
It's just like overhearing a conversation in a cafe, which of course you can't do right now but Charlie is at his house in Mildura, Norto is in a bedroom in Robinvale, Jade had converted the lounge room coffee table to a podcast next in Bannerton and Bill is at home near Swan Hill.
Technology is a good thing when you use the power for good not evil!
Charlie is on the CCC (Community Consultative Committee) for Mildura Base Hospital so we talk to him about the issue with Dr Sleeman & Hughes losing hospital privileges & the new fever clinics that have been set up.
Norto tells you how it is with regard to staying the hell home & Bill talks about the SHDH Fever Clinic & answers some questions that have been asked of Council in recent days.
Head to the website for more news and links to government websites.
Support us here: patreon.com/thevalepodcast
What happens when you put a very VERY social person in a situation where they can't be social?
You get phone calls. Lots of them. At all hours of the day, and sometimes you record those phone calls and call them a podcast!
It certainly helps when said person has had a cardboard cutout of himself made in recent
weeks. It's almost like he's in the same room... but not quite. In fact, we understand why nephew Ethan no longer wanted this specimen in the house.
We're also on a FACT finding mission this week. FACTS about COVID-19.
Asking questions straight to the person and persons who know for a FACT if they can confirm or deny.
You can get all of the details on our website, or enjoy them here.
Support us by becoming a Patron at patreon.com/thevalepodcast
Donny is in for part and not in for part, funny how he turns up when there's jelly cakes!
Bad luck Donny, I ate them both and I'm not even sorry.
Our Mayor, Cr Bill Moar was in for a quick chat, we had planned longer but ran out of time after getting through the mornings activities, so if you have any questions for Bill, please email us via the website for our catch up next month.
We catch up with Cindy Hinterhozl, Glenn Stewart and Akesa Kei who are your 'Our Place" staff, based at Robinvale College. They explain what Our Place is setting out to achieve and what their roles are.
We also catch up with Adam Young, one of the founders of "Walking Off The War Within" a walk with emergency service walkers and a big challenge taking place this Saturday at Norwingi Place in Mildura. It's a significant event for the Robinvale community who remember Nathan Shanahan and we talk to Adam about Nathan, about how this walk started and how you can get involved.
Check out the website here and sign up: https://walkoffww.com/
There's also a lot of banter going on too and we thought Charlie might be back next week but he has to quarantine himself for at least 2 weeks after travelling to India so you can keep well away from here thanks Charlootz!
If you enjoy this podcast and would like to support us, become a Patron via Patreon from as little as $5USD per month: patreon.com/thevalepodcast
Mandarin news with Olivia
Vietnamese news with Jack
Because we try to include and recognise as many parts of the Robinvale community as possible.
If you like what we stand for and would like to help support this podcast become a Patron from as little as $5 per month: patreon.com/thevalepodcast
We honestly recorded A LOT of conversations this week because there is a LOT going on in Robinvale, and a LOT of people who need to hear these conversations. Olivia & Jack are back with news in Mandarin & Vietnamese too, but that is the add on episode because those who don't speak Mandarin or Vietnamese may not need to hear it, but those who only speak Mandarin or Vietnamese ONLY need to hear that part, so we've separated it out to make it easy. That explanation is confusing but it makes sense in production meetings... attendee's... 1.
So we're talking about the ski race this week and who better to check in with than Robinvale's own HIJACT race team member, Jake Hinterholzl who will be observing this weekend. Stewy is also on the Robinvale committee so he will talk up the happenings on Saturday night which everyone should make an effort to get too.
We've got Leon in to be an almost co-host in parts and one of those parts is a chat with Mr John Neale who tells the story of how he got to Robinvale among other things.
Nicole & Amanda from RDHS are in to talk about the HIPPY program which is much more fun and attractive than I first believed it to be, and there's lots of free stuff and a certificate at the end for parents and families too!
Basketball is over for another summer so we do a quick wrap on the season and then we're exhausted!
There's been a couple of conversations bumped to next week, but they're important so next week you can hear Cindy, Stewy & Akesa talk about the "Our Place" program in Robinvale (not the controversial Swan Hill building), and also Lou and Tony from AXIS Employment who are at network house each week.
Large show which has been recorded over 3 days, but it's with you now so enjoy and have a safe long weekend.
If you like this podcast and would like to help support it, become a patron from as little as $5USD per month: patreon.com/thevalepodcast
If we want to talk to Donny at this time of year we need to go to him, so we did, and we took Robinvale's favourite son, Paul Costa, and yes, of course he brought his guitar! He does a couple of numbers for us including his first #1 and his current album title track.
We're also talking to Victorian Minister for Creative Industries, Equality and Mental Health, Martin Foley MP about Luke's 42K for 42K campaign, other support for mental illness in Sunraysia and the grant awarded to Mildura Arts for a brand new creative space!
I also took the podcast to footy training to sit down with Richo & whilst Scott wasn't there Ben the Clontarf Academy Regional Manager was and was more than happy to sit down and have a chat.
Thanks to Carmel Falvo for the tea, coffee, food and childcare and having us in your beautiful home, next time we'll bring the togs!
Become a Patron and help support the podcast: patreon.com/thevalepodcast
This week, because all of us have lots of things going on, we recorded at Loft 13 after hours, so forgive us for the delayed release. We just wanted to get the sound quality right for you. Hopefully it is ok.
Jussy & Kelsey are speaking about the huge event planned for the Saturday night of the long weekend event and how lucky we are to have this stretch of river in our backyard.
They go through the amount of fun to be had including a foodies market, live music from everyone's favourite local cover band 'The Drowning Sorrows', and Select Harvests Fireworks at 9pm!
The girls are urging locals to support the event and you can do that just by attending on the Saturday evening, because, honestly, why wouldn't you.
Full details on our website: thevalepodcast.com.au
She's made it to the AFLW. She's wearing her Dad's number. #8. And she kicked a smooth as silk goal on debut game and the very first game of the Richmond Football Club's AFLW team. A night that was just a little bigger than football according to coach Tom Hunter.
But she's a Healy girl. She was part of Robinvale Netball Club's only A Grade premiership with her little sister Ash, and she's Grub's little sister.
She's many things too many different people, but for this year, she's Richmond's key forward, and after only one game, she's looking the goods and making the locals, and her dedicated family proud and emotional.
Speaking of her family, we've got big brother Josh "Grub" Healy on first. We actually wanted Grub to run the interview but times didn't line up, but we got to speak to him and take a call first.
We also have a chat to Ambulance Victoria's Swan Hill branch PCSC about Robinvale getting more public AED units and becoming a Heart Smart Community.
Become a Patron here: patreon.com/thevalepodcast
Dr Phil always says, "It doesn't matter how flat you make a pancake, there's always two sides." Meaning, there's always two sides to a story. But when it comes to any tier of government quite often that pancake turns into a dodecahedron. (That's a shape with 12 sides, just FYI).
After news broke last week when the report from the public inquiry into the Balranald Shire Council was handed down and Council was dismissed and put in the hands of administrators, my heart sank and I felt sick. Mostly for Euston local and long time community volunteer and former Councillor Joanne Roberts.
After reading some of the horrid, ill informed comments on news threads, I quickly sent a message of support to Jo and mentioned that if she ever wanted to have her say, then we have a podcast for that these days.
A couple of days later, I was thrilled to receive a message from Jo saying she would like to come and have a conversation about the whole situation, but I had to be gentle. As if I would be anything but. Jo and I have been in similar situations. Part of a Council who's wards are geographically located a long way from ground zero, so I had nothing but empathy and what started out as a nervous quick chat, soon turned into almost an hour of sorting through a very small part of the inquiry, the report and the future of the Balranald Shire Council.
I can not applaud this woman enough. She was one woman amongst a sea of experienced men. She stood up for what was right. She stood up for what was due diligence. She stood up for legal process and she stood up for Euston. Then after it imploded on top of her, she still has the strength and the leadership to publicly share her side of this dodecahedron that is the dismissal of the Balranald Shire Council.
As our VIP's (Very Important Patron's) you are getting former Councillor Jo Roberts uncut and before anyone else on the planet.
There will be an excerpt of about 10 minutes in the regular podcast episode, but this is her side of the story. Raw. Honest. Diplomatic and uncut.
With over four hours of audio to edit down into a single hour this week, I certainly had my work cut out for me, which is why you can find some of the unedited versions if you are a Patron. You really should sign up, it's totally worth it.
Jo Roberts also came in to talk about the dismissal of the Balranald Shire Council and how it's affecting her which you already have access to if you are a Patron.
On this episode we have Cr Bill Moar in for a chat about all things SHRCC which includes recycling, Bromley Road, the Aerodrome and more.
John Bond talks about Rotary and the 8 week bowls comp on a Wednesday night, Ross Lamattina comes in with his Dad after competing in and WINNING his very first junior dragster event.
Then we go over the Clontarf Academy for a debrief on the All Star Basketball game with Leon and Trav gives us a debrief on MAFS so far... This bit, as you may or may not expect is not G rated... it's not quite M, but Parental Guidance is recommended.
He does use the word 'boobs' 'scissoring' & worst of all "sheila!"
To become a VIP - Very Important Patron sign up here: patreon.com/thevalepodcast
This week's episode was ambushed by Charlootz, Norto & Donny and recorded at Loft 13 one afternoon, where they turned the tables on the regular interviewer and made her the interviewee.
What started out with a room full of people ends with just Jade and Charlie chewing the fat.
You know Stewy. He's been around for years and years, but no one actually knows what he does. Something to do with training, and even after several conversations we're still not entirely sure, but it's irrelevant now and he can tell you why. He's also got an update on the Ski Race Weekend which is coming up very quickly.
Anil from RDHS is in this week to talk us through what he does and can do for anyone in our community, from navigating government departments, the NDIS, births, deaths and marriages and just being someone to talk to with regard to mental health, physical illness of a loved one, seriously anything you can think of.
Donny is back this week and doesn't he make it known that he's back and don't believe a word he says about the reasons for his absence. He's been busy as all growers this time of year so we've been working around him but maybe it is time to move the podcast studio out to his shed? Thoughts?
Luke has officially launched his campaign to raise $42,000 to facilitate FREE weekly walk in mental health clinics in Robinvale so we shall talk with him and Anita who is the brand new Primary Care Manager at RDHS.
We even managed to score the conference room at RDHS to record in this week so thanks so much to Vicki & Connie for that.
Julieanne talks Australia Day Breakfast & Cindy talks 'Our Place' & Early Years, along with her champion ski race driving son's desire for a new prop.
Patrons get the full unedited version of Anita's chat on their Patreon feed: patreon.com/thevalepodcast
Leon is here to talk about basketball and in particular the All-Star night coming up on 30th January.
Luke is also back to talk about his mental health and a challenge he has set himself which could ultimately end up being of great benefit to the entire Robinvale community.
Yes, Robinvale Leading Appliances are flat out right now, they have Christmas Day off then they are back at it again for their Boxing Day Sale.
Add to that a message from our emergency services, our local Codmac fishing expert, Steve Bowden, back from Cairns & Emily who hand delivers the star for the top of Jade's tree and we have a JAM PACKED show to finish the year!
Thank you to everyone who has supported this podcast, if you'd like to show your support, give us a 5 star rating on Apple Podcasts, or become a Patron via our Patreon page and you can help out by making small monthly donations to help us keep going. patreon.com/thevalepodcast
Today I got to have a great conversation with Dr Anne Webster about all sorts of issues that are important to residents in Robinvale, and to ask her directly to mention our plight in Parliament.
We also discuss planning raise a question about a regional planning scheme that might suit rural and regional centres better than it currently does.
Of course, given the news that has hit the media this week we discuss the labour schemes available to growers now and how, even though it might not be perfect, it's what is on offer right now, so up take of this scheme will dictate the need for alternatives into the future.
I really enjoy a good conversation, which is why I love podcasting so much, and this is one of those really good conversations I'm so happy to share with you.
UPDATE: Since this conversation occured, Dr Webster has let us know that her knee actually got a lot worse and she has spent some time in hospital. We wish her a very speedy recovery.
Vicki Taylor steps in to co-host whilst Donny is working seeing as though Autopro Robinvale is the sponsor and she's married to the boss. She also manages to get a whole bunch of people to sit down for a chat, including Gordon, Tom, Emily & Daryl
We came to talk about Husqvarna lawn products and ended up talking about the Robinvale Woolworths Blasters heading to the MCG on day $ of the Boxing Day Test, we talk cycling, MVAC, Christmas, camping, school and more.
It really is a mixed bag and you have all of the ambience of being out on Bromley Road during construction.
Charlie Albanese is our very special co-host this week, all whilst on call in the ambulance of course, and as Murphy's Law states, he must get a call out, which he does.
Julianne Loy is in to talk about the Christmas promo, Christmas lights and decorations for REBA (Robinvale-Euston Business Association).
Then we have Pete.
There's only a few places on the planet where there would be people like Peter Aikman.
Passionate about everything he does from broadacre farming, to hydro-foiling on the Murray River, and a lot of the time, all on the same day.
Here the un-cut version of Pete's conversation and see the video first by becoming a patron via Patreon.com/thevalepodcast
24 pages in the Sentinel this week and Kato manages 10 minutes to run through just some of it.
It's a HUGE issue this week and the front cover is beautiful!
We have a chat about a lot of the Christmas advertisers including the wonderful girls at the Wemen Store who sent us afternoon tea and it was incredible! Mini Pavs! Brownies. OMG!
Al was buzzing around and we started talking about the redundancy of AFL's Trevor Ryan in Sunraysia so she jumps on to have a yarn about Seamus. Jack is in with Vietnamese, Norto on measles and Steve Bowden on basketball.
All of these bits have been edited down to squeeze into 1 hour, but if you'd like to hear them in their entirity, and a very special extra bit with Leanne Adcock, then sign up to support the show by becoming a Patron.
You'll get exclusive content each week when you do.
patreon.com/thevalepodcast
To get the full conversation we had with Mayor Councillor Bill Moar, head to our Patreon page - patreon.com/thevalepodcast
This week we've got a mixed bag and there's no water in it.
We chat to Councillor Bill Moar who is the new SHRCC Mayor.
We've got Travis Bussell & Salutu Felise from the Robinvale Clontarf Academy to talk about their awards night.
Will Burns from Youth Inc tells about all of the opportunities for young people in and around The Vale.
The Salutu is back with his Dad Luka to talk local basketball & the All Star game.
Tongan news - 22:15
Jack's bit & Vietnamese News - 25:11
Mandarin news with Olivia - 44:15
Rod Mackenzie is known throughout the land as the "Cod whisperer" the man who can convince Murray Cod to jump up on his line and they seem to obey him.
To the young strapping sales lad at Pioneer Ford, he's Dad, and to most people in Manangatang, he's Rod.
He has fished some incredible places around the world and has been featured on Paul Worsterling's iFish a number of times, some of which you'll here in this episode.
He still calls Manang home, and he still loves fishing around the Vale, so it's only appropriate that we should have a chat to him with cod opening coming up very soon.
iFish audio supplied by iFishTV.
Check out the CODMAC Facebook page here
Support us and become a Patron via Patreon: patreon.com/thevalepodcast
It's been a busy week for Ali, but we managed to get her at beer o'clock on Friday!
Ali has been hard to catch with this week being a Parliamentary sitting week, so we managed to grab her on Friday afternoon. We are lucky she's accommodating.Trav was on his way to the Valedictory Dinner so called into the Robinvale Golf Club for a quick chat about that and about the Clontarf Awards night on Wednesday night... see, we had to do it today, because next week would be too late.
If you have something of interest you'd like to talk about please email jade@cleareyesmedia.com.au
Become a Patron - patreon.com/thevalepodcast
A Clear Eyes Media production
Donny has turned up with the goods this week, or at least Donny's Mum has. A loaf of bread from the oven that Donny built, and it has made delicious toast this morning.
Quentin Norton is back from China and had lots to discuss including RDHS and their AGM and board positions, as well as his illustrious basketball career and the stellar season hes having. Shouldn't be long until Okomos men win a game.
Jo Kaptein from Mallee Sun Bulk Buy discuss the State Government grants that are available to households, businesses and farmers with some infomation sessions next week. She also has a scoop for community groups.
Fred Tassone comes in for a discussion on all sorts of things including the ACCC issue paper and submissions, farming currently and all sorts of things.
Donny also committs to laser hair removal with Lou in the next few weeks.
Become a patron: https://www.patreon.com/thevalepodcast
We have so many people wanting to contribute to this podcast now we can't fit it all into one episode, so the Sentinel preview with Kato will now come out the day before the paper does, but to get the full stories you'll have to get the paper or subscribe online.
If you'd like to support this podcast and score some extra episodes and content, you can now pledge small monthly amounts to patreon.com/thevalepodcast
Who'd have thought Tom & Jack would be such a comedy duo. There's actually a lot of laughter the whole way through this episode.
It's nice to have a little bit of comic relief to be honest, and that was Tom's job when he got the call up after Donny was a late scratching.
This week we get Jack in to talk dong, and poor Jack is a little worse for wear in the beginning.
Vicki Boram comes in for a wrap on the Country Halls Tour in Boundary Bend and an update on junior cricket.
Jake Hinterholz is on the phone to discuss his time at the Ski Racing World Championships in France
Gabi Fong also has some cleanliness tips as well as news in Mandarin.
Tom takes the opportunity to discount his Dad's chances on MasterChef, even if he is a freak cook, and offers his opinions on such things as sarsparilla.
06:36 - Jack Dang - Vietnamese
47:35 - Gabi Fong - Mandarin
It's spring racing so we really should talk about it with one of our hometown experts. Paul Costa is fresh back from a war zone so we had to get him in, and it's getting closer to xmas so time to talk toys with Kerryanne.
It’s been 4 and a half years since the crash that broke his back and for all intents and purposes, ended his drag racing career.
But, 4 and a half years is a long time, and the accelerator foot has become too itchy that it must be scratched.
This weekend, Phil Lamattina, or the carrot king as it says on the car, makes his come back in the first round of the 400 Thunder Australian Professional Drag Racing Series.
Because we always like to get both sides of the stories, we also invited his wife Sarah in for her perspective, and because she’s a pretty cool chick, so here are Sarah & Phil Lamattina for a special come back edition of The Vale Podcast.
Check back tomorrow morning for the regular weekly edition of the podcast featuring Kerryanne Jealous for Leading Appliances who are this week's sponsor, also Paul Costa, straight from a military base in Iraq & Tony Natale on horse racing and state of agriculture in our region.
WARNING: THIS EPISODE CONTAINS CONVERSATIONS ABOUT SUICIDE ATTEMPTS, DEPRESSION & BI POLAR DISORDER. It also contains some mild curse words. We wouldn't recommend it for children.
We've spoken to a celebrity, we've spoken to a guy paddling the Murray to start conversations, but the best conversations start at home, so let's talk to a couple of hometown heroes, and I do mean heroes.
They are. To sit in the cafe and bare their souls in front of a microphone for the entire community in which they live, not to mention the world, in the hope of saving someone else, is heroic.
Luke & Tom, along with Tom's partner Jussy all sit down at Loft 13 for a raw, candid and brutally honest discussion about the dark depths of depression, attempting suicide twice, bi-polar and the people that care for those fighting these battles.
If any of these things are triggering for you, please contact your GP, Lifeline on 13 11 14, Beyond Blue, Headspace or any of the resources in your area.
We've got music, sport, water and grain farming this week.
We speak with Fanny Lumsden who is playing at Memorial Park Boundary Bend as part of her Country Halls Tour which has been running for 7 years. She's a terrific country music artist, and she's allowed us to play a couple of tracks and give away a few double passes. You can also read about this gig in this week's edition of the Robinvale Sentinel.
Leon Johnson is in on one crutch to talk about basketball and his knee so you can quit asking him. He also likes to hang it on Jade a bit with is comedy for everyone.
Kato gives us some headlines from the Sentinel and tells it in Tongan.
Finally, Pete Aikman comes in to give us a run down on all of the tennis club happenings and a bit of an overview on the beginning of harvest for him. It's a really interesting chat.
Check out our facebook and instagram for our giveaway this week.
You might know Osher Günsberg as Andy G or Andrew G depending on which era you're talking about.
The Osher we talk to today is a very different person to the bloke Andy G was. He's a very different guy to Andrew G, but again, this bloke has a story, and he was in Robinvale briefly to tell his story about mental illness and how it's affected his life and his families lives.
Osher could not have been more accomodating, more welcoming and more fantastic with the people that came along to the RDHS & FRRR Mental Health Forum at the Community Centre tonight, and he did not by any stretch, have to have a conversation in a car with me, but he did, and he is ever so complimentary about our humble little podcast at the end, so listen to til the end, because to be honest, from one radio head to another, I'm chuffed.
If you or someone you love is struggling with some mental health issues, please reach out to someone and talk, even if it is to the person on the other end of the phone at Lifeline - 13 11 14.
Feel free to have a listen to Osher's own podcast which is FANTASTIC, and part of the Podcast One Network, so far better quality that this one, but we're trying and you keep listening, so we'll keep doing it. Thank you.
Osher's podcast - Better Than Yesterday is here on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/better-than-yesterday-with-osher-g%C3%BCnsberg/id711028488
This is the full story. It's every bit honest as it is humbling as someone who's grown up in what Abdul describes as "the best country on earth!"
This is the story of a boat person, straight from his mouth. The way he remembers it, the exact way it happened.
At around the 45 minute mark, I lost my strength and I wept whilst producing this story.
Please share his story and maybe, just maybe, we can reunite a family.
WARNING - this week's episode does use a few light curse words and not just from us, but our guests as well. WE also discuss topics such as suicide and mental illness. If these things might be a trigger for you, please take care and reach out to Lifeline on 13 11 14, Beyond Blue or your local GP
Water & Mental Health - They kind of go hand in hand really. Jade & Donny have special guest Rob Albanese in to have a chat with Ali Cupper about the water situation right now. Rob sits on the LMW Strategic Advisory Committee.
It's a long chat because Donny wouldn't get off the phone, but one you can learn A LOT from and we actually applaud Ali for being so frank and honest with us. How refreshing from a politician, but it is the way it has to be and we appreciate it so it's well worth the listen.
We also have Quentin (Norto) back in to talk about the Suicide Prevention Network which is being set up in Robinvale and of course Osher's visit next week and he does confirm that we will have him on the podcast next week. In fact, he will be the podcast prior to his appearence in Robinvale next week.
We have a copy of his book "Back, after the break" to give away and Jade talks about how it's the most important book about mental health she has ever read. Sign up to our website to go in the draw.
Kato is in to talk about what's in this week's edition of the Robinvale Sentinel and deliver her news in Tongan.
Jam packed and Loooooooong this week, but we hope you enjoy it.
Thursday 10th October is World Mental Health Day and it just so happened that a bloke paddling the 2,400kms of the Murray River happened to be on the bank in Robinvale on this day.
I don't believe in coincidences only that the universe is showing me a path to follow so I followed it all the way down to the boat ramp in Robinvale to catch Marc for a little while to have a chat about his fight against depression, his lonely journey along the Murray River and all manner of things.
WARNING - this episode uses some colourful language. If the topics discussed are triggering for you, please contact Lifeline on 13 11 14, Beyond Blue, you GP or other mental health resources.
Follow Marc's journey here:
https://www.talkingaboutalonelyjourney.com.au/live-tracking
I want you to meet Abdul.
Abdul is from Afganistan.
Abdul now lives and works in Robinvale.
Abdul thinks Australia is the greatest country on earth for quite literally saving his life.
It took Abdul one hell of a journey to get to our great country, but it's now the country he loves and calls home.
This is a spellbinding story from the mountain village in Afganistan to our little Murray River village of Robinvale.
A warning: it contains stories of killing and persecution. Stories of war, corruption, death and religion. It also contains a little swearing and is definitly not one for the kids.
So many people to talk to again this week, so we’ve split it into 2 parts.
This is the part that contains all of the news in different languages,
Gabi has Mandarin - 1:00
Jack has Vietnamese - 17:30
Kato has Tongan 21:45
We also managed to catch up with Ali Cupper who was supposed to be on leave, but with all of the ministers in town and then the Premier making a surprise trip, it took us until Thursday this week to be able to catch her for a few minutes.
Donny had a few things to get off his chest this week so we did have a long chat with Steph Ryan MP, Shadow Water Minister and State Member for Euroa.
We also had Charlie Albanese come in for a chat about Farmer Wants a Wife, the AED info night tennis and a few other things we got sidetracked with.
Then Anna & Nicki Early Childhood Educators from RDHS about the school holiday program and OOSH (Out Of School Hours Program).
Head to rdhs.com.au for all information about any of their programs. It's a community service and one you should use.
It's another 2 part episode this week as we have a lot of information to convey in language so Gabi, Kato, Jack and a chat with Ali Cupper will follow this episode before the end of the week.
Never let anyone tell you that small towns are sleepy, because we are anything but. We needed two parts this week just to get everything in.
In this episode we catch up with Glenn Stewart and ask him exactly what it is he does.
We manage a 5 minute chat with Peter Walsh & Tim Smith who were in town to talk planning, population, water and heritage last week.
Finally, we managed to catch up with Akesa Kei outside her office in Mildura and talk all things NRL including the local under 15 squad games happening in Robinvale & Mildura next week.
Enjoy part 2 & Go Storm!
Wednesday is podcast recording day, but also the day of the Manangatang Road Rally so it's been an emotional roller coaster. We play some clips from that and chat about it, we talk about labour hire and the process to register, the potential for an All Star Basketball Game and Richmond.
Ali Cupper - 5:21 - Robinvale-Sea Lake Road
Leon Johnson - 12:00 - Progress on the knee, All Star Basketball game and a little bit of a go because... Geelong supporter
Jeremy Boyd - 23:34 - Labour Hire, Politics & Robinvale College Council
Steve Bowden - 46:48 - Basketball, junior clinics & where he's at with a Mildura Heat return
Kato - 1:05:44 - News in Tongan
A few different things trialled this week, but back to normal this week.
What a day we've had from Robinvale Leading Appliances playing with the all new iPhone 11, the Carpool Karaoke mic and eating snags and cake!
It's all explained in the beginning of this podcast, but the regular weekly edition will happen live, onsite, at Robinvale Leading Appliances this Friday afternoon between 12 - 1pm.
If you'd like to have a chat or a snag, pop in. WE will LIVE stream on Facebook and upload the unedited version of the podcast immediately after.
This is simply a conversation had in a Ford Mustang GT with a car buy, Phil Lamattina as his come back date gets closer. We discuss the footy first, cars and drag racing second and water last.
Phil Egan returns to The Vale after being on a world tour with dance company Beats On Pointe and discusses the RYPAC.
He has spent time performing on London's West End and now heads up his own dance crew in Melbourne's Northern suburbs called "Brother's In Arms". He's also got a terrific rap about the 35-49 and he shares a little of it during our chat.
Tony has taken time out of avo's and foals to talk about water & farming and everything that goes along with it. It's only a fraction of the conversation that actually took place, but some of that audio had "technical difficulties".
We finish with a moment's silence out of respect for the McIntosh Family who lost their daughter & sister Kate this weekend. The entire district is thinking of you all at this tragic time.
* In this episode of The Vale Podcast we discuss topics such as mental health and suicide and this could be triggering for some listeners.
If you need help, please call LifeLine on 13 11 14, kids help line on 1800 55 1800 or contact Beyond Blue or your local doctor.
Yes, it's very long, but it's only a return trip to Mildura to listen to it, and it's only long because there's so much happening.
12th September is R U Ok day and we have a very honest and candid chat about mental health, talking to people about it, and the narrative around the tragic passing of Danny Frawley.
Jackson Leslie comes in to discuss the under14's, Felix couldn't talk about footy as he had a hair appointment.
Gabi talks Lantern Festival in Cantonese, Jack discusses it in Vietnamese and Paula chats about basketball & The Robinvale Euston Ag Show coming up this weekend.
Then Trav Bussell and Noah come in to have a chat about the "Murray Experience" that the Robinvale CLONTARF Academy have recently hosted here in Robinvale!
See. Told ya! That's why it's almost 1 1/2 hours of listening goodness for your ear drums this week.
Beyond Blue: https://www.beyondblue.org.au
Lifeline: https://www.lifeline.org.au/
RUOK?: https://www.ruok.org.au
Donny has returned from QLD a little conflicted. Comedian Tahir calls in to talk about the Euston Pre-School Variety Night & Quentin is in to talk about Osher's escape from the Bachie mansion dungeon and the clutches of Queen Sandra Sully.
Jack is in to talk about the Lantern Festival which is next week, Kato gives us all the local news in this week's Robinvale Sentinel and we had a very interesting visitor stop by for a chat this week, but we're going to give him his own STORYTIME so watch this space for that.
We do spend a fair amount of time talking about the footy, but it's finals and we have a very real chance of going all the way, so we can be excused for the next couple of weeks.
For more information on anything hit us up at thevalepodcast.com.au
After such stunning wins from the Robinvale-Euston Eagles last week, it would be remise of us not to talk about it, but it soon became apparent BT wasn't interested in much else, and that's ok.
Maria Absolom comes in to chat about The Warriors win in the rugby league & Fijian church in language.
Kato delivers the local news direct from the Robinvale Sentinel and delivers it all in Tongan also.
We speak to Krystle Williams about what Vic Pol are out and about doing as well.
If you're not into motorsport, or drag racing then you may not know what the Lamattina Top Fuel Team have been able to accomplish.
They've won 4 Australian Championships, and 2 of those with Phil as the driver.
You may know, however that Phil has escaped death in spectacular fashion TWICE, and he's about to get back in the car. Buckle up, it's going to be an interesting ride.
Donny is back, but only for a week before he flies off to Port Douglas for a holiday.
Paula is in to talk about he Robinvale Basketball Association & the AGM being held TONIGHT (22ND AUGUST 2019) they are desperate for office bearers and people to take over so get involved.
Quentin Norton is in to talk about all things RDHS and an extention to the ambulance station.
Kato is in with local news in the Sentinel, out today and ready to pull the trigger on their website.
Ali Cupper is also in studio with us to have a really interesting and informative chat about Labour Hire, Ag Visa's, Rates and her new proposal for the State Government and water.
It's a big one, so settle in.
Apologies for the audio, it was recorded on location in the committee room at the Robinvale Euston Football Netball Club, which we thank them for, but it's not the quality we'd like of course. Thanks to friend of the show Pat "Silco" Silcox from SCA for his help with production. We run into some technicial difficulties around the 12 minute mark and couldn't broadcast the rest, but enjoy the conversation as it is.
I'm flying solo this week with Donny getting caught up on the farm with farm stuff but there's so much to talk about!
The Mallee Almond Blossom Festival is this weekend so we catch up with Annette to chat about that. Talking dong with Jack, Tongan with Kato, Fijian with Maria who also has an exclusive for us, Steve talks basketball, and Ali Cupper talks roads.
We also caught up with Dustin Fletcher & Phil Lamittina during the week, but that's too many stars for one show, so make sure you're subscribed to the podcasts, and sign up for the website newsletters to find out when those drop as BONUS EPISODES.
Welcome to our very first episode of The Vale Podcast. This has been an idea and pipe dream for a couple of years at least, and to see eveyrone embrace it is just sensational.
We're lucky enough to secure the services of local icon Donny Falvo as our guest host and this week we're speaking to Ali Cupper MP about all things Ag Visas, also Leon Johnson about his 100th game with teh Robinvale Euston Football Netball Club, Jack is in with Vietnamese community news, Kato talks local news from the Sentinel, Jane discusses netball and Donny & Jade talk footy and stories.
Make sure you subscribe and share!
This is just a little teaser and a test subject to check all of our settings.
There's a couple of jokes in it for you.
First episodes are proudly plugged in my Robinvale Leading Appliances.
Make sure you subscribe, review and check out the website - thevalepodcast.com