In the loop

This free event aims to spread awareness about Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder and its impacts.

Looking ahead, the Monster Garage Sale is set for Saturday, May 3, coinciding with the Community Market.

Registrations open on April 1 for just $20. Maps will be available for $2 at 8am on the day, with coffee, a Lions BBQ, and great bargains across town.

In its ninth year running, Tatura Community House co-manager Nadine Pichler said this year’s event would hopefully be bigger and better than the last.

“It’s always a great day, and not only for our local community, but it brings many people into the town,” she said.

“Please make sure you register your property if you would like to join in on the fun.”

Another aspect of this year’s timetable at Tatura Community House is its wellness programs.

These include yoga, strength training, and circuit classes, providing structured exercise opportunities with dedicated instructors.

“They are a big part of our health and wellness initiatives and have proved to be very popular within the community,” Nadine said.

“They are a lot of fun, and there is a class for all levels — please check out the information and photos on our socials, and give us a call.”

Also, don’t miss out on getting your hands on some cool and locally designed tea towels and hats from the “I Love Tatura” merchandise range.

They are also proving to be popular among locals and will be available for purchase at the Community Market.

All merchandise profits support vital programs like their food pantry and volunteer-run initiatives.

Q: Who do you think the most well-known person in Tatura is and why?

A: There are so many amazing people in Tatura that you can’t just pick one.

Generations Op Shop

A new community meals program is in the works at the Generation Op Shop, aiming to bring people together through food and skill-building.

Still in its early days, the initiative is designed to support those who access the local food bank, while also providing cooking and community service opportunities.

“We wanted to find a way to help people develop skills in cooking or community service, creating a sense of belonging,” Generations Church and Generations Op Shop community care manager Jacqui Hall said.

The plan involves bulk cooking sessions at Olive and Vine’s commercial kitchen, with meals initially distributed through the food bank.

Once funding is secured, a food trailer will serve meals across the community.

The project is largely funded through the container deposit scheme, which has already raised about $45,000.

“We started with a $55,000 wish list for the food trailer,” Generations Op Shop food bank manager Jolene Bowles said.

“Now, we’re just $10,000 away,” she added, acknowledging additional support from a Bendigo Connected Community grant.

The food trailer will feature a bain marie, fridge, freezer, and coffee machine, ensuring versatility.

Meals will be free or donation-based, allowing everyone to participate.

Discussions are being held whether it may also serve the community as a café at times to generate revenue.

“We want this to be Tatura’s food trailer — something the whole town can take ownership of,” Jacqui said.

With a planned launch by spring, the community’s support remains crucial in making this dream a reality.

The Generations Op Shop container deposit scheme is open Monday to Friday from 10am to 4pm and Saturday from 10am to 12.30pm.

For more information, please call 5824 3059.

Q: Who do you think the most well-known person in Tatura is and why?

A: We think John Lovell, who used to own our local newsagency. He is such a lovely local person.

Tatura Football Netball Club

The Tatura Football Netball Club is gearing up for an exciting and action-packed 2025, with a mix of returning and new players, coaches and community involvement.

Built on strong values of inclusion, teamwork, and development, TFNC looks forward to another year of competitive football and netball, while strengthening its connection with the local community.

Junior Football co-ordinator and board member Michael Reid said the club was ready to tackle 2025 and invites the entire community to get involved.

“The club provides opportunities for players of all ages, with teams across senior and junior football and netball, as well as dedicated programs like Auskick and women’s football,” Michael said.

“We kicked off our year with our ‘Club Day’ on February 1, which was a fantastic day for building connections, preparing for the season ahead, and having plenty of fun.

“A big thank you to Kristy Nihill, who spoke to our group about the importance of training our brains to become the best people and athletes we can be.”

The GVL 2025 season kicks off on April 5against the Shepparton Bears at Deakin Reserve, followed by the first home game and season launch on April 12 at Tatura Park.

This will also be the junior football jumper presentation day.

The club’s Anzac Day match on April 25 remains a major highlight, bringing the community together for a day of reflection and sport, with many already looking forward to the occasion.

With major events including Ladies’ Day, the Annual Ball, Sponsors’ Day, and the Goods and Services Auction, TFNC is ready to get the season under way.

“It’s more than just a sporting club — it’s a hub for community spirit and connection,” Michael said.

“If you’ve been thinking about getting involved, we encourage players, supporters, volunteers, and sponsors to join us for what promises to be another memorable year.

“For more information, head to our social pages or website.”

Q: Who do you think the most well-known person in Tatura is and why?

A: Kevin Gunna Ryan — because of his long term local involvement and dedication to the Tatura community, sport, business and government.

Rotary Club of Tatura

Tat 200

Rotary plays a vital role in the annual Tat 200 cycling event, run by Bega.

From setting up direction signs and manning water stations to managing race check-ins and other key tasks, Rotary has been a proud and constant presence at this event for many years.

Bunnings BBQ

Yes, another Bunnings BBQ is in the works — this time around Easter.

Volunteers are needed, so if you'll be around and able to help, please reach out to Rotary. Contact details can be found on their website.

Art Show – King’s Birthday weekend in June

Rotary is once again hosting its annual Art Show over the long weekend in June, with an exciting line-up planned.

Expect to see fresh talent alongside some returning favourites, making this year’s exhibition one to remember.

This year’s raffle prize has an Australiana theme, featuring work by people’s choice regular winner Col Brown. Tickets will be available soon.

By popular demand, the gala opening on Friday, June 6 will feature Opera at the Art Show, with Michael Lapinia and his opera colleagues performing in Victory Hall’s stunning acoustics.

On the Sunday afternoon, enjoy a performance by Shepparton Sings, a community choir, while relaxing with a coffee at the on-site café.

Q: Who do you think the most well-known person in Tatura is and why?

A: Kaye Watson

Kaye is the unofficial Tatura photographer. Everyone recognises her with her trusty camera at every event that happens in Tatura.

The Tatura Bulletin relies on her work as do many other private or public functions. Kaye was recognised as Tatura Citizen of the Year a couple of years ago.

Goulburn Valley Tree Group

The GV Tree Group is back in action, helping the community with affordable native plants and re-vegetation projects.

Their open days run Tuesday mornings from 9am to 11:30am, with Saturday mornings starting April 12, continuing until stock runs out — usually by late July.

They’re also hosting Biodiversity Day on May 3, a free family event packed with wildlife carers, a native bee expert and gardening advice.

Kids can get up close with spiders and native animals, while adults can learn about sustainable landscaping.

Enjoy a free sausage sizzle and morning tea while you explore.

The nursery will be open from 9am to 1pm on the day, so come along, grab some plants, and help support local conservation efforts.

Volunteers are always welcome, whether you can help regularly or just whenever you have time.

For more details, pop in during open hours at 6 Kerferd St, Tatura.

Q: Who do you think the most well-known person in Tatura is and why?

A: It’s too hard to pick one. We are a big group and everyone could name someone different.

Customer Service Outreach program

Sometimes, good service is just around the corner.

This sentiment was proven by Greater Shepparton City Council, which, in collaboration with Neighbourhood Houses, launched the Customer Service Outreach Program in 2024.

To bring council services closer to home, officers visited various regions on a monthly basis.

This initiative allowed residents to address their concerns, make inquiries and payments, and log requests directly – without needing a trip to the Welsford St offices.

Following the program’s successful stage one, council’s marketing officer Laura Church announced that stage two has begun, now offering services in Tatura every two weeks and in Mooroopna monthly.

“Council’s customer service staff offer the same services as at the Welsford St office, except for in-person departmental interactions and cashless transactions only,” she said.

“The outreach service is expected to enhance customer satisfaction, interaction, trust, and accessibility for our community with the council.

“Additionally, it aims to improve information sharing, encourage issue reporting, and support strong connections within our diverse community.”

Stage two is a response to residents’ strong desire for more engagement and support, reflected in the overwhelmingly positive feedback received thus far.

One Tatura resident mentioned that they had a complex issue and attended an outreach session specifically to discuss it face-to-face with a council officer.

As they aptly put it, “The issue was fixed then and there.”

For more information, visit https://greatershepparton.com.au/council/contact/outreach