Walwa World June 2012 - Walwa Bush Nursing Centre

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WALWA WORLD
a free monthly Walwa-Jingellic community newsletter covering the Upper Murray
from Tintaldra to Burrowye and from Ournie to Talmalmo
June 2012
In this issue
Studio C546
Walwa Birds in winter
Radio Upper Murray
Membership Form
Snippets
PAG Trip
Shirley & Marks Wedding
Vitamin D Revisited
Walwa’s Sewerage Scheme
update
Walwa Primary School News
D Day
Rare Grass Discovered
PAG turns 18
Book Chooks Report
Don’t forget to collect
those stickers and
bottle tops to support
Walwa Primary School
See page 13
STUDIO C546 OPENS ITS DOORS
What a day! Sunshine and light breezes, plenty of
artists’ and artisans’ work on display, and, I'm glad
to say a few good sales to boot.
Bridge The River Arts (Inc) Studio C546 gallery is
up and running, aiming at being open every
weekend, staffed by the members of the studio and
representing not only their work, but that of any
local artist who wants to exhibit it is a reflection of
the healthy art and craft life of the Upper Murray
region.
A score of people were there at noon on Saturday
for the official unveiling, though visitors had
begun to arrive as early as 8:30 in the morning,
and some were still there late in the afternoon.
Everyone commented not only on the diversity of
the work, but also on the high standard.
Membership is still available and as the work will
be rotated on a regular basis, spaces will become
available. So if you have a work that you would
like to exhibit, or perhaps even to sell, please give
Matt a call on 043 773 3644.
Even if you are not an artist yourself, please feel
free to drop in and see how this beautiful region
inspires the artist inside us all.
Studio C546 has been established as a focus and
outlet basically for the members of the "Bridge
The River Arts (Inc.)" (BTRA) which hosts many
of the Walwa areas artists and artisans. Up until
now they have had nowhere really to display or
sell their works. Though of course anyone who
would like to can exhibit and sell in the gallery,
working through the BTRA. The Gallery also
contains two small studio spaces, one of which I
myself will use. The whole area is filled with
natural beauty and wonderful light, reflected by
Editor:
Irene Palmer
Publisher: Kerrie Thompson
PO Box 46
Walwa VIC 3709
Ph: 02 6037 1220
Fax: 02 6037 1207
Though I have not painted for a few years,
concentrating on photography instead, I hope to
develop my skills once again. I
hold a Certificate in Advanced
Signwriting and have commenced a
BA in Photography. I live in the
area and am constantly struck by
the drama of the landscape.
Further activities in the future may
include such things as workshops
art expeditions and perhaps even
printmaking and sketching,
depending on the make-up and
interests of the members of Studio
C546, in association with the
BTRA.
E: [email protected]
and cc to
[email protected]
Copies in colour on the Web at
www.walwa.com
Next WW deadline:
5pm Friday 29 July 2012
Walwa World June 2012
the high percentage of artists and artisans in the
region. I felt, when the suggestion was made by
members of the BTRA to establish a gallery/
studio in concert with them, that here was an
opportunity to not only develop my own
photography and painting skills, but act to assist
the arts community of the area, no matter what
discipline they may work in.
Matt Smith
1
and around Walwa township. They too often sun themselves high
in 'bare' European deciduous trees in the mid afternoon,
especially on the northwest side of the football oval.
THE DAY TIME BIRDS OF WALWA IN WINTER
There are two local hovering birds of prey - the white and black
shouldered kite and the nankeen kestrel, also known as a 'chicken
hawk'. Though the kestrel seems to attract little attention from
the magpies and currawongs, the kite in not as fortunate and
often has its hunting hover disrupted around town. The wedgetail
eagle flies high over the town too and the whistling kites follow
the river and hunt along the flats - calling their loud and distinct
cha cha cha cheow call that rings out across most Australian,
Papuan and other Asian wetlands and river flats.
Silver Eye
Though in the week I was here, I did not see them - the white
breasted sea eagle is also a frequent visitor with a semi
permanent nesting site not far down stream. This bird is a
reminder that in the not too distant past - less than 10,000 years
ago, when the sea level was 5 metres higher than now, the
Living in Walwa the birds are impossible to ignore - at times
being a feathered alarm clock. The spurwing plovers haunting
calls echo through the still nights, characteristic of Walwa, and
during the day they stalk the paddocks. In spring the will lay an
egg without a nest - protected by their boisterous behavior
distracting predators from well camouflaged chicks that stand so
still.
Black Shouldered Kite
Walwa for the last week of May in winter 2012 has been cold at
night in the mornings until the fog or cloud lifts. It is then the
sunshine warms the air and both birds and people can slow down
for a bit to bask in its rays - and so do the birds.
The currawongs flock into town from the mountains to escape
the winter snow and compete for prominence with satin bower
birds, king parrots and crimson and eastern rosellas with an
almost day long chorus peaking in the mornings and sometimes
evenings.
saltwater went way up the Murray River as did the animals
associated with it - like sea eagles. Indeed in the 1850's there
were seals as far upstream as Broken Creek near Shepparton. Up
to the 1970s, prior to flood gates which prevent tidal flow and
their passage, dolphins were frequent visitors to the lakes at Berri
South Australia.
Yellow Rump Thornbill
The loud calling Whistling Kite with its pale under wing pattern
is another connection to the distant coast and northern wetlands.
Even in winter there are scores of honeyeaters in and around
Walwa - especially the white plumed honey eater, the beautiful
eastern spinebill that can hover like a humming bird and the
often yellow bellow and very loud red wattle bird. Australian
honeyeaters are unique in their diversity - especially in southern
Australia - and likely evolved in this country.
In the times of academic speak, of biodiversity and sustainability,
it is worth noting that the European, Asian and other introduced
species of plants in and around Walwa township that mingle well
with the Kurrajongs and River Red gums along with the rivers
and dams and drains support more than 50 species of indigenous
birds that utilise their nectar and the shelter they provide from
predators, the rain and the cold.
The birds that came with the early settlers are here too - but not
in plague numbers of the cities - in winter anyway. Small flocks
of house sparrows and starlings move between the town and
adjacent paddocks. Unlike almost all other birds, starlings have
bi-focal vision and do not need to 'cock their head on the side' to
see what they may eat like fellow migrants black birds. Head
cocking is also the habit of the unique Australian Magpie the
black backed ones sneaking over the border from NSW to Walwa
(Victorian Magpies nearly all white backed). Magpies of this
family only occur in Australia - though the name applies to black
and white birds worldwide.
And these indigenous species of birds make their economic
contribution too. The cockchafer removal champions are the Ibis
which are also very adept at catching house mice and young rats.
The ever present welcome swallow consume more than a third of
their body weight in insects a day and their numbers locally
make a substantial dent in the summer fly and mosquito
populations, ably assisted by willy wagtails and grey fantails.
Tucked into the first narrow mountainous section of the Murray
River Valley, Walwa has short days often with still sunny
afternoons in winter. The beautiful turquoise parrots, called
'grassy's' locally, graze grass seeds in small family groups in
Walwa World June 2012
2
The satin bowerbirds are beautiful to visitors but at times pesky
to local gardeners - in the winter it is a bit of truce and they go
about their business. The grey shrike thrush always seems to
seek people out and in spring its chew chew chew chewit call is
familiar to most.
the waiting room at the Medical Centre, when time is available
for our hardworking receptionists to put them onto a disc.
Bob McDonald
There are many more species of birds to be seen, especially
beyond the township, but the fifty I found over a single week
are among Australia's, indeed the worlds, most diverse and
delightful and quietly contribute to the colour and productivity
of the Walwa landscape. I look forward to returning in Spring
to see the birds of the 'warm weather shift' and the 'night shift of
owls and mopokes - again flicking through bird books and
checking calls on the internet to work out just what I am seeing
- and hearing.
Satin Bower Bird
The photos of these birds - some just quick snaps that show
enough to identify them - will be on the display on the TV in
BECOME A RADIO UPPER MURRAY MEMBER 20012/2013
Radio Upper Murray (RUM) provides a live and local broadcasting service to the residents
of the Upper Murray region of Victoria and New South Wales.
!
To continue this service, RUM needs the support of listeners such as you. While it is true that
we are a free-to-air station, running a radio station such as ours does cost a considerable
amount. We feel sure you will want to confirm your interest and support for RUM Radio by
joining the team that keeps our radio station strong and active.
We thank all current members for your support and hope you will be able to continue as a member. To become a member, or renew your
membership, complete the form below and send it with payment to RUM 55 Main St Walwa Vic 3709. Please mail the form also if you
pay by direct deposit.
To assist in any other way, such as volunteering, training as a presenter etc, please contact RUM by letter, email or phone. Contact details
at radiouppermurray.com
Greg Thompson, Secretary
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2012/13
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Walwa World June 2012
3
TOBACCO ROAD
PHYSIOTHERAPY
Anyone interested in quitting with local Quit Facilitator Irene
Palmer ring 60371222.
All appointments for Liz Wallace, Physiotherapist to be made by
phoning UMHCS, Corryong, directly on 0260763200. This
includes appointments in Walwa.
YOGA
Yoga continues 5.30 pm -6.30pm in GYM every Wednesday except
when Irene is away.
NORTH EAST WATER MONITORING
North East Water conducts compliance monitoring on all water
supply systems including Walwa on a weekly basis which is
submitted to the Department of Health monthly. The test results
are also published monthly to our website
(http://www.newater.com.au/water/quality).
Weekly testing includes microbial (E. coli), turbidity, pH and
chlorine. Each year, North East Water conduct over 50,000 tests at
over 400 sites across our region for more than 170 parameters. In
conjunction with this compliance monitoring North East Water
continually monitor the water at the Walwa water treatment plant
to ensure safe, good quality drinking water.
Allan Hooper North East Water
NEIGHBOURHOOD HOUSE ART WORKSHOP
The Corryong Neighbourhood House/CEC is offering an exciting
new art workshop with Glenda Brown. Glenda is offering a two
day workshop, the first day for Oil Painting and the second for
Pastels. Her workshops are fully instructional from a life
subject. We have booked the dates of the 19th and 20th July. The workshops will be all day from 9.30am until 4.30pm. The
cost will be advised later.
If you are interested, please contact us, either by email or by
phone (note new phone number 02 60 76 2176) and we will list
your name as an interested participant. Could you please, also
let us know if you can supply your own easel.
We will contact you with more information later.
Regards, Heather (volunteer)
The tobacco industry efforts stand in the way of attempts to protect
the public from the health, social, economic, and environmental
damage their business causes. The World Health Organisation has
singled out tobacco industry interference as one of the greatest
threats to ending the global tobacco epidemic.
Quit Executive Director Fiona Sharkie said the tobacco industry’s
continued efforts to undermine tobacco control had kicked into
high-gear when confronted with plain packaging legislation.
“They have exploited every trick in the book in a desperate attempt
to stop the most significant health reform in decades,” she said.
“They’ve used seemingly independent front groups such as the
Alliance of Australian Retailers to advance their case and made
untrue claims about the impact on Australian business on the back
of shoddy research.”
Ms Sharkie said governments across the world had to remain
vigilant to protect tobacco control from the vested and commercial
interests of the tobacco industry.
“About 4000 Victorians die every year of a smoking-caused illness
but the good news is that your body begins to enjoy the positive
health effects of quitting almost straight away,” she said.
“After four years, there is a large drop in your risk of a heart attack
and after fifteen years, your risk of stroke is close to that of a
person who never smoked. Quitting smoking is the single best thing
you can do for your health and our Quitline specialists can provide
free guidance and support to help you realise a life without
cigarettes.”
To arrange an interview with Fiona Sharkie, contact Quit
Media co-ordinator Jessica Craven on 0400 424 559.
There are four people named, Everybody, Somebody,
Anybody and Nobody. There was an important job to be
done and Everybody was asked to do it. Everybody was
sure Somebody would do it. Anybody could have done it
but Nobody did it.
Somebody got angry about that, because it
Everybody’s job. Everybody thought Anybody could
but Nobody realised that Everybody wouldn’t do
ended up that Everybody blamed Somebody for
Anybody could have done.
was
do It
it. It
what
ADVERTISE WITH WALWA WORLD
Narelle Rouch
Walwa World is a free monthly newsletter and to help
cover cost we need revenue from advertisements.
Massage & Bowen Therapist
RATES ARE AS FOLLOWS:
AAMT 10274
business card size @ $10 per edition or $110p/a
¼ page @ $15 per edition or $165p/a
½ page @$25 per edition or $275p/a
full page @$45 per edition or $495p/a
Walwa World June 2012
Narelle is now conducting massage therapy sessions on
Tuesdays at the Walwa Bush Nursing Centre.
Please call 60374122 to make an appointment.
4
WILL I LIVE TO SEE 80?
Here’s something to think about.
!
I recently picked a new primary car doctor. After two visits
and exhaustive lab tests, he said I was doing ‘fairly well’ for
my age. (I had just turned sixty something)
A little concerned about that comment, I couldn’t resist
asking him, “Do you think I will live to be 80?
He asked, ’Do you smoke tobacco or drink beer, wine or hard
liquor?’
‘Oh no’, I replied. ‘I’m not doing drugs either!’
Then he asked, ‘Do you eat rib-eye steaks and barbecued
ribs?’
!
Walwa!Jingellic!Lions!Club!
We!organise!the!Australia!Day!Breakfast!and!ANZAC!Day!commemoration.!
We!provide!assistance!to!people!affected!by!Bush!Fire!and!flood.!
We!provide!firewood!to!the!needy!in!our!area.!
We!organise!the!junior!disco.!
We!raise!funds!to!support!worthy!organisations!and!causes!including:!
I said, ‘Not much. My former doctor said that all red meat is
very unhealthy.’
‘Do you spend a lot of time in the sun, like playing golf,
boating, sailing, hiking or bicycling?’
‘No,I don’t’ I said
He asked, ‘Do you gamble, drive fast cars, or have lots of
sex?;
‘No’, I said
He looked at me and said, ‘Then, why do you even care?’
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
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Radio!Upper!Murray!
Walwa!Memorial!Hall!
Walwa!and!District!Community!Bus!
Jingellic!Show!Society!
Walwa!World!
Jingellic!Cricket!Club!!
Albury!Wodonga!Cancer!Carer!Accommodation!
Legacy!!
Lions!Cord!Blood!Research!
Lions!Eye!Health!Program!
Lions!Spinal!Cord!research!
Lions!Disaster!Appeal!
•
•
Lions!Australia!Operation!Smile!
Australian!Haemophilia!Foundation!
We#also#have#a#lot#of#fun!#
Elderly or infirm members of the community can contact the Corryong
Lions Club or the Tallangatta Rotary Club to make arrangements for the
collection of unwanted televisions or computers from their homes.
But!we!need!people!in!the!community!willing!to!join!and!lend!a!hand!as!our!
members!are!aging!and!it!is!getting!tougher!to!provide!the!support!we!would!like!
to!give!to!our!community.!
!
nd
th
We!meet!on!the!2 !Thursday!of!the!Month!at!Walwa!Pub!and!the!4 !Thursday!at!
Jingellic!Pub.!!If!you!are!interested!in!coming!along!to!one!of!our!meetings!please!
give!David!McCourt!a!call!on!6037!6255.!
!
For#Hire#from#Lions:#
!
Mobile'Cool'room!!!
$50!per!event;!or!$50!per!day!to!a!maximum!of!$150!(eg!if!you!want!to!hang!a!
beast!for!a!week).!
!
Also'Available!Wooden!Dance!Floor!(manageable!components!that!quickly!fit!
together);!Bridal!table!(U]shaped!with!table!cloth!and!surrounds);!BBQs,!Catering!
trailer.!!Hire#rates#negotiable.!
Corryong Lions: Lorraine Griffiths 6076 1509
Tallangatta Rotary: Charles Knight 6071 5120
Call!David!McCourt!on!6037–6255!or!David!Hanna!on!6037]1343!
FREE TELEVISION AND
COMPUTER RECYCLING - JULY
During the month of July all televisions and computers will be accepted
free at the Corryong Landfill, the Tallangatta Transfer Station and the
Wodonga Transfer Station.
At each location you will need to present proof of identity as a resident
of Towong Shire.
Council acknowledges the generous support from these service clubs.
JULY COUNCIL MEETING
The next meeting of Council will be held at the Corryong Council Office
from 10.00am Monday 2 July 2012. Council Meetings commence with
an open forum where residents are invited to address the Council on
matters that concern them.
Agendas for Council Meetings can be viewed at www.towong.vic.gov.au
or at the Council Office (Corryong and Tallangatta), Bethanga Store,
Eskdale Store, Koetong Hotel, Mitta Mitta Store, Tintaldra Store and the
Tallangatta Library.
Friends have a way of speaking without words
Walwa World June 2012
5
A PAG ADVENTURE.
nice and close so we all could get a close up photo next to him.
After the Koalas, we then headed back to the motel to get ready
to see the penguins at dusk. About 1/2 an hour before dusk we all
headed to the Penguin Parade to see the little penguins come in
from the sea. There were a lot of penguins that came in that night.
Some came right by us and stood there for quite a while. After the
parade we went back to the motel and had a late tea.
On a cold and clear morning of the 30th of April a band of
intrepid travelers set off on a big adventure to Phillip Island.
They were Jeanie and Johnnie Blackburn, Jim Lacey, Elayne
Moore, Heather Campbell, Celia and Davide De Laurentis, Beth
Jefferies Mary Connors and Tina, Phyllis and Kylie Clarke. We
went on our travels with some people from the big smoke of
Corryong and of course we
weren't walking, so we
hitched a lift with Sue and
Peter Humphrey of
Humphrey Tours at Corryong.
We were each given a sheet of
paper which had bus bingo on
it. A prize was up for grabs
the competition was fierce.
Day 3 We packed up and had breakfast and said
our goodbyes to the staff at the Tropicana Inn
and jumped on the bus to head home via the
long scenic way. As we got on the bus it started
raining. The first stop was morning tea, we had a
problem. It was raining cats and dogs and we
had no cover, so we took over Reese Plumbing
in Emerald where Peter and Sue's son Adam
works. (see photo) We had a dry morning tea
and got to see the latest and greatest in plumbing
supplies at the same time as we had a cuppa and
cake. Our thanks must go to the management
and staff at Reese Plumbing In Emerald. Back
on the bus we then headed to Lake Nillacootie
for lunch. The rain had stopped by then. After a
quick drop off at Benalla we headed for
Corryong to drop them off first. We arrive back
in Walwa tired but happy. A big thank you to
Peter and Sue Humphrey for a great and
enjoyable adventure. We will see you again next
The first stop of the day was
at Benalla where Peter's
Mum, Sally provided morning
smoko (the jelly cakes were
to die for). We then set of
with empty bladders and full
stomachs to Phillip Island via
the scenic route. We had
lunch on the way at a picnic
area “Domdom Saddle” near
the top of the Great Dividing
Range on the Spur road.
The next stop and for some, the
most important stop of the day was at Panny's Amazing
World of Chocolate at Phillip Island. Afternoon tea was
great (real hot chocolate made with real chocolate). Some
people said the frozen bananas dipped in chocolate were a
treat.
We then went to the Tropicana Motor Inn which we found
was really nice. We stay there for the duration of our stay
(two of us had the penthouse suite with built in spa). We
had tea at the motel which was great.
Day 2 dawned bright and clear. We rose bright and early,
eager to start our adventure on Phillip Island. We had a
tour of the island while we were waiting for things to open
(nothing opens before 10am). First stop was to the Vietnam
Museum were we went and had a tour. We found it was
really interesting learning all about that war. We had
another beautiful morning tea and then it was off to see
Churchill Island, the historic farming settlement and
working farm.
We then headed off for lunch
at San Remo for fish and
chips with the pelicans.
When we got there, a sign
said “Open Daily but closed
on Tuesday”. Guess what? it
was Tuesday. (We are still
trying to work out if they
have an extra day than us).
After the bus evacuation drill
we had at San Remo we then
headed to the RSL Club at
Cowes for lunch. After lunch
we went and had a close
encounter of the furry kind
with the Koalas at the Koala
Conservation Centre. There
were quite a few, all snug in
their trees, with one placed
Walwa World June 2012
year for round two.
P.S Jim Lacey won
the prize for the
bus bingo.
PAG
6
PAG TURNS 18
On the 30th of May PAG turned 18 years old. We had a
party with special guests in Irene and Mary. We played
pass the parcel with music supplied by Irene and Mary.
A great deal of laughter was heard while the game was
been held.
We had a great lunch cooked by Lydia, all 3 courses of
it. The community centre was decorated with balloons
and streamers and looked very festive. The afternoon
was rounded off with a few games of bingo. Everybody
went home with a gift of a box of chocolates. The cake
was cut by Les.
The guests in attendance were Jeanie and Johnnie
Blackburn, Phyllis and Tina Clarke, Les Griffiths, Anna
Szepes, Beth Jefferies, Mary Connors, Bernie
Buchhorn, Elspeth Greenhill, Elayne Moore, Jim Lacey,
Elma Van De Hoef, Ian and Harley Beith, Anne Kleyn
and Joan Caithness. A great day was had by all.
A big thank you must go to Tina for helping to set up
and pull down the decorations and the tables. My
thanks go to you as I could not have done it without
your help. Thanks must go to Lydia as she cooked up a
storm and also cup cakes as well, thank you.
Walwa World June 2012
7
Shirley Sprenger & Mark Cheshire Tie the Knot
There%was%movement%at%Coniston%%
For%the%word%had%passed%around%%
That%Shirley%Sprenger%and%Mark%Cheshire%
Are%to%wed,%in%the%shearing%Shed%
On%April%28th,%2012%
%
At%least,%that%was%how%the%invitation%read.%
%
The%day%dawned%foggy%%
The%bridesmaids%into%the%back%of%the%ute%were%loaded%
As%the%brideEtoEbe%polished%her%boots,%donned%her%new%Akubra%
Mounted%and%let%her%pony%have%its%head.%
%
%
%
The%guests%through%the%sheep%race%were%draughted%and%penned%
Eager%to%witness%the%ceremony%ahead.%
%
Then%the%groom%stood%there%
Waiting%for%his%bride%
His%best%man%calmly%by%his%side%
As%Max%the%Schnuauzer%led%the%ladies%in%
%
The%fog%lifted%
The%reception%started%
The%groom%the%poor%bloke,%he%couldn’t%find%his%bride%
The%stock%whip%rang%out!%
He’d%make%an%impression%and%keep%her%in%line%
In%her%own%merry%time%she%made%her%entrance%
A%lamb%in%tow%this%time!%
%
%
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This article sent in from Shirley
Walwa World June 2012
8
!
!
!
!
!
!
The!BBQ!sizzled,!the!beer!flowed!like!wine!
The!speeches!all!snappy!
Seeing!the!cake!made!everyone!happy!
!
As!the!day!drew!to!a!close!
The!couple!they!left!
How!would!they!do!it?!
!
IN!A!TRACTOR!OF!COURSE!!
!
Just Married!
Walwa World June 2012
9
WALWA HOTEL
39 Main St, Walwa Vic 3709
Phone/Fax 02 60371310
Your Hosts: Alan & Chris
Ice Cold Beer on Tap
Take Away Beverages
Large Selection of Wines and Spirits
Meals, Pizza and Takeaway Food Daily
specials board changes regularly
Lunch 12 – 2pm Monday – Sunday
Dinner 6 – 8pm Monday – Saturday
January we open for dinner 6 – 8.30pm
and Sunday nights also.
*Accommodation @ reasonable rates
*Large Shaded Beer Garden *Ice
*Functions catered for On or Off premises
*Friendly Staff.
“Winter is the time for comfort, for good
food and warmth, for the touch of a friendly
hand and for a talk beside the fire: it is the
time for home.”
Edith Sitwell
$2,900 was raised for Cancer at
the High Tea last month
THANK YOU
A big thank you to Mary
Connors, Elma van de Hoef
a n d N e v a Ta y l o r f o r
helping with folding of
Walwa World in May.
Podiatrist Anna Reeves
is available for consultation
at Wagga Wagga,
Holbrook and Corryong
Phone: 02 6921 1783
Your local Credit Union located at the Walwa Bush Nursing Centre
Open Tuesdays and Thursdays 2pm-5pm
Walwa World June 2012
10
RISKS AND BENEFITS OF SUN EXPOSURE Summary
statement:
A balance is required between avoiding an increase in the
risk of skin cancer by excessive sun exposure and achieving
enough sun exposure to maintain adequate vitamin D levels.
Sun exposure is the cause of 99% of non-melanoma skin cancers
and 95% of melanomas in Australia, however, exposure to small
amounts of sunlight is also essential to good health. Ultraviolet
radiation B (UVB) is the component of sunlight that is most
likely to be responsible for both its beneficial and its harmful
health effects. In Australia, where UVB levels are in the high to
extreme range for much of the year, sun protective measures to
reduce the incidence of skin cancer must continue to be a high
public health priority.
The majority of Australians are thought to have sufficient UVB
exposure from sunlight to ensure adequate vitamin D production
levels >50 nanomoles/Litre to form and maintain healthy, strong
bones.
Vitamin D forms in the skin as a result of UVB exposure but few
studies have investigated the amount of UVB that people require
to make enough vitamin D. There is evidence to suggest that
VITAMIN D REVISITED
New research from SunSmart shows that 92% of GPs are
concerned that their patients may not be getting enough Vitamin
D. Low vitamin D is an important Public health issue in Victoria,
particularly during the autumn and winter months.
Our last locum, Barbara Hoare checked many people and
found several people have low Vitamin D levels. I emailed
her and asked her advice about what to do about low
Vitamin D and here is her reply:
“If the person is not at risk of pregnancy then my preference
is for cod liver oil since it's a food rather than a supplement
and it contains vitamin A & D. If you just supplement with
vitamin D alone you may develop a relative depletion of
vitamin A, as they need to work together. If at risk of
pregnancy then D3 capsules and plenty of egg yolk in the diet
for vitamin A.”
May to August in Victoria
For most people, the general rule of thumb is when the UV is
below 3, sun protection is not required unless near highly
reflective surfaces such as snow, outside for extended periods
or when the UV reaches 3 and above.
In Victoria, the average UV is below 3 between May until
August, making it a great time to roll up your sleeves and get
some winter sun. Most people need between two to three hours
of midday winter sun exposure spread over a week, to face,
arms, hands (or equivalent area of skin) to help with their
vitamin D levels. People with naturally very dark skin may need
three to six times this amount of exposure.
!
prolonged sun exposure does not cause Vitamin D levels to
continue to increase. Therefore, people should continue to
protect themselves from overexposure, especially during peak
ultraviolet radiation periods from 10 am to 3 pm. People
living in southern regions of Australia have a higher risk of
vitamin D deficiency, particularly during the winter months.
Low vitamin D and deficiency: are you at risk?
Low levels of vitamin D may have no obvious symptoms but left
untreated, can have significant health effects such as bone and
muscle pain, poor bone mineralisation (softer bones) causing
rickets (bone deformity) in children and osteomalacia in adults.
Vitamin D is crucial for bone and muscle development and in the
prevention of osteoporosis. There have also been links with an
increased risk of bowel cancer, heart disease, infections and autoimmune diseases. Some people are at increased risk of vitamin D
deficiency. Levels can be tested with a simple blood test and
supplements. Solariums should never be used to boost vitamin D
levels as they emit dangerous levels of UV which increase your
risk of skin cancer.
Recommendations
1. For most people, sun protection to prevent skin cancer is
required when the UV index is 3 or higher. At such
times sensible sun protection behaviour is warranted
and is unlikely to put people at risk of vitamin D
deficiency.
2. Most people achieve adequate vitamin D levels through
the UVB exposure they receive during typical day-today outdoor activities. For example, fair skinned people
can achieve adequate vitamin D levels (>50 nmol/L) in
summer by exposing the face, arms and hands or the
equivalent area of skin to a few minutes of sunlight on
either side of the peak UV periods on most days of the
week. In winter, in the southern regions of Australia
where UV radiation levels are less intense, maintenance
of vitamin D levels may require 2-3 hours of sunlight
exposure to the face, arms and hands or equivalent
area of skin over a week.
3. Some people who have had skin cancer, have received an
organ transplant or are highly sun sensitive need to have
more sun protection and should discuss their vitamin D
requirements with their GP to determine whether dietary
supplementation with vitamin D would be preferable to
sun exposure.
4. Some groups in the community are at increased risk of
vitamin D deficiency. They include dark skinned
people, those who cover their skin for religious or
cultural reasons, the elderly, babies of vitamin D
deficient mothers, and people who are housebound or
are in institutional care. Naturally dark skinned people
The following groups may be more at risk of vitamin D
deficiency:
People with naturally very dark skin.The melanin in their skin
affects UV penetration so they need more UV exposure to make
vitamin D.
People with little or no sun exposure such as older adults,
especially the frail, those who are in residential care or
housebound, people at high risk of skin cancers and who
therefore avoid exposure to the sun, people hospitalized for a
long time, people with a disability or chronic disease, people
with conditions (obesity, end stage liver disease, renal disease
and fat malabsorption syndromes such as cystic fibrosis, coeliac
disease, inflammatory bowel disease) or taking medications
affecting vitamin D metabolism and people such as taxi drivers,
factory workers and night-shift workers where they have
limited incidental UV exposure throughout the day. Breast fed
babies who fall into the risk categories above or have mothers
with low vitamin D. Breast milk contains little vitamin D and
infants depend on maternal stores initially. (Formula milk is
fortified with vitamin D).
Walwa World June 2012
11
are relatively protected from skin cancer by the pigment
in their skin; they could safely increase their sun
exposure. Others on this list should discuss their
vitamin D status with their GP as some might benefit
from dietary supplementation with vitamin D.
strong bones and for this reason
it is important to maintain
adequate vitamin D levels all
year round.
Vitamin D
deficiency in infants and
children can cause rickets,
characterized by muscle and
bone weakness and bone
deformities. Adults with low
vitamin D are at risk of bone
and joint pain, muscle and
bone weakness, osteoporotic
fractures and falls.
some studies have
! Recently,
been published that suggest
possible beneficial effects of sun
exposure in the prevention or improvement in outcome of
treatment for a number of other diseases including breast,
prostate, and colorectal cancer, non-Hodgkin lymphoma,
diabetes and multiple sclerosis.
Vitamin D
Most vitamin D is produced in the skin by exposure to UVB
(wavelength 290–320 nm) from sunlight. It can also be obtained
from foods such as oily fish, eggs, and meat and some milks.
However food sources make a relatively small contribution to
total vitamin D status. Vitamin D supplements are also readily
available over the counter in pharmacies.
Vitamin D production decreases during winter when the
intensity of ultraviolet radiation is lower. The body can rely on
tissue stores of vitamin D for between 30 and 60 days assuming
vitamin D levels are adequate prior to winter. In most cases, any
vitamin D reduction during winter is corrected in summer when
more sunlight is received with more time spent outdoors. While
this correction may occur, it is still advisable to prevent
deficiency during winter as fracture rates increase with
deficiency, particularly in older adults. For those over 40 years
of age, it is conceivable that annually recurring cycles of low
vitamin D during the winter months contributes, at least in part
and over many years, to age-related bone loss.
Certain people are at high risk of skin cancer. They include
those who have had skin cancer, have received an organ
transplant or are highly sun sensitive. These people need to have
more rigorous sun protection practices and therefore should
discuss their vitamin D requirements with their GP to determine
if dietary supplementation rather than sun exposure is
appropriate.
While vitamin D levels of at least 50 nmol/L are recommended,
there is emerging evidence that the optimal level to maintain
bone health may be as high as 75 nmol/L . For the Australian
population to achieve this level without increasing their risk of
skin cancer through increased sun exposure, there would be an
increased requirement for dietary sources of vitamin D. Some
studies have shown that up to 80% of people in ‘at-risk’
populations display evidence of deficiency. Mild vitamin D
deficiency (25–50 nmol/L) was noted in 43% of females and
moderate or severe vitamin D deficiency (<25 nmol/L) in 11% of
females during winter in the Victorian population of Geelong.
Vitamin D deficiency is a problem in frail, housebound or
institutionalised older Australians. It is related to increasing age,
and low levels of exposure to sunlight. As the human body ages,
it becomes less efficient at synthesising new bone and making
vitamin D, adding to the problem. For this reason, older adults
who are vitamin D deficient increase their risk of osteoporosis,
falls, and fractures.
APPROVED BY THE AUSTRALIAN AND NEW
Z E A L A N D B O N E A N D M I N E R A L S O C I E T Y,
OSTEOPOROSIS AUSTRALIA, THE AUSTRALASIAN
COLLEGE OF DERMATOLOGISTS AND THE CANCER
COUNCIL AUSTRALIA
There is good evidence that vitamin D is beneficial for
maintaining musculoskeletal health and reducing the risk of
bone fractures. The human body needs vitamin D to regulate
calcium levels in the blood and to make and maintain healthy,
worked with regulatory authorities to address community
concerns. The letter said that changes were already costed into
the scheme and that residents would not have to meet any
additional costs.
WHATS HAPPENING WITH
WALWA’S SEWERAGE SCHEME?
It’s been quite a while since Walwa’s innovative new waste water
scheme was first mooted during the early part of 2005.
Originally driven by the imposition of a planning overlay that
has effectively blocked any town development of residential
dwellings since that time, Walwa residents lobbied to hold a joint
community/Shire meeting about the matter in December 2006.
Fast forward another 3 years to June 2012: the scheme is mostly
in and septics have been pumped out (courtesy of flood relief)
but grey water connections have not yet been completed. It is
understood that the Shire are on the point of breaking with the
original contractor following disputation and are looking to
complete the scheme with local trades (a welcome outcome).
Community were excited by the prospect and undertook surveys
to assess public reaction to paying for a replacement scheme to
the then totally inadequate septic system. Tthe response was
overwhelmingly favourable.
Back to our initial question; Where are we placed with the
finalisation of the scheme and costs to residents? To date there
has been very little information delivered to the Walwa
community. Residents are somewhat in the dark about the
official state of the scheme and its final costing. They want to
know for example - what is the projected date of completion and
estimated total cost of the scheme? Will residents be still charged
the original amount of the Special Charge Scheme? What about
the C5 planning overlay – on completion of the scheme, what is
the intent and process to remove this overlay?
The Shire sought and were subsequently successful in obtaining
grants and a design/construct scheme was drawn up and let to
contractors JHL Civil P/L. The scheme was costed by the Shire
at that stage and notices were sent to Walwa scheme residents
(Special Charge Scheme).
About this time some residents became aware of the nature of
the scheme and expressed concerns to the Shire re the layout of
the sewerage ponds on the recreation oval.
These are reasonable questions that deserve timely answers. The
Council should either put out a newsletter explaining the state of
progress or hold a public meeting to explain these and other
aspects of the scheme.
In June 2009 the Shire sent an information letter to residents
explaining that construction had been delayed while Council
Walwa World June 2012
12
WALWA PRIMARY
Georgie Interviewing Mrs. Campbell with Jaiden.
Susan Sheldrick , Community
Education Co-ord. SES N.E.
Region VIC. visited to present
Max with a gift for his help
during the floods that so
affected Walwa. Apparently
M a x ’s a r t i c l e a b o u t h i s
experience prompted students
from other schools to send in
their experiences. Max
received a mascot in the shape
of Paddy the Platypus. Susan
will try to bring the large-aslife mascot to visit in the
future. A booklet is being put
together and will focus on
Walwa and surrounding areas
with details that will assist the
community in the event of
another flood.
SELAMAT DATANG DI WALWA SEKOLAH
Welcome to Walwa School, Carmyl and Don Winkler.
The children from Prep to year 6 have been so lucky to have Ibu Carmyl and
Pak Don spend the Bahasa Indonesia session with us on Wednesday.
Carmyl and Don are teachers of this language, with many years of experience
in the culture (having lived in Bali) and are fluent speakers. To have them
involved completely with the children has been a wonderful experience for us
all.Terima kasih Carmyl and Don.
Ibu Daly
Jock Spiden and Elsie Drummond with Carmyl and Don Winkler
Q: What is your earliest memory of school?
I liked school but boys could be bullies.
Q: What did you like to do best as a child?
Playing with my dolls in the early years and when
I was over dolls, the beach and reading.
Q: Did you play any sports and are they
different today?
I played basketball, which you now call netball
and Tennis.
Q: Have most things changed from back then?
I would say so. School is not as strict and
regulated now.
Q: What was your childhood like?
It was happy but my dad was at war and my mum
had to bring up four children on her own.
Q: What do you think about all the modern
stuff, compared to then?
I enjoy all the modern things.
Fashion,colour, music-other than “Heavy Metal”.
Q: Was it hard having to get dressed in all those
layers?
It was easy
Q: What was your favourite subject?
English and English Literature.
Q: What was your least favourite?
Geography and Math.
Q: How old were you when you got your first
car?
I Don’t drive. I have car but I don’t drive it.
Walwa Primary school are collecting Earn and Learn stickers from Woolworths, Pauls Milk caps, and Coles Sports for Schools program.
We will get resources and sports equipment for our school, so the more the merrier (people can drop stickers, milk bottle caps and Coles
labels at school).
Walwa World June 2012
13
PAG VISITS WALWA SCHOOL
PAG visited the school on Wednesday 6th June.
They listened to the students reading and were
most impressed. Students then interviewed some
of the group.
Media Release
26 April 2012 | Media contact: Darren Skelton 0417 368 805
Rare grass discovered in north east Victoria
Department of Sustainability and Environment (DSE) staff have found a presumed extinct native
grass species growing in two separate locations in north east Victoria.
Until recently, there was only one record of Open Summer-grass (Digitaria diffusa) on the Victorian
DSE flora database.
DSE Senior Project Officer Matt Looby said: “That single record was based on a specimen
collected in June 1952 near Walwa in far North East Victoria.
“As no collections had been made of this species since the 1950s the grass was presumed extinct
in Victoria.”
In 2011, Matt rediscovered the grass on farmland to the west of Walwa at Burrowye and Talgarno
while working with landholders to protect and manage remnant woodlands. The identity of the
grass was confirmed by botanists from the National Herbarium of Victoria.
Earlier this year, DSE Biodiversity Officer Stuart Roberton also discovered populations of the grass
on public land at Wises Creek Flora Reserve near Talgarno.
“It’s an exciting discovery for Victoria and highlights the importance of private land conservation
programs that DSE delivers in the North East,” Mr Looby said.
“We think, that like other summer growing native grasses, Open Summer-grass has responded to
warm and wet conditions across north east Victoria during the summers of 2009, 2010 and 2011.”
Open Summer Grass is a perennial, sprawling grass that grows to 40 centimetres. It has a
branched flower head and small chaffy flowers attached along the narrow branches.
Its leaves are about 8 centimetres long and 5 millimetres wide, flat and hairless.
Despite being presumed extinct in Victoria up until the recent finds, Open Summer Grass has
widespread distribution in New South Wales and Queensland and is considered secure in those
states.
Informing local land managers of the species’ location is now a priority to fully understand the
Victorian distribution of this grass, and to protect it from disturbances caused by removal of native
pastures and inappropriate grazing practices.
The Victorian Government has a responsibility under the Wildlife Act 1975 and the Flora and
Fauna Guarantee Act 1998 to protect threatened species. These animals and plants contribute
significantly to the biodiversity of their ecosystems. The knowledge we acquire about these species
helps us to then take the on-ground steps needed to ensure their survival.DSE will also undertake
a re-assessment of Open Summer-grass’s conservation status in Victoria now that it can no longer
be considered extinct.
www.dse.vic.gov.au | Follow us on twitter@DSE_Vic | www.youtube.com/dsevictoria
Mary had a little lamb
Her father shot it dead
Now it goes to school with her
Between two hunks of bread.
WALWA WORLD needs more articles. If you have any news
that would be of interest to your friends and community please
send them into us.
Happenings in your club, group, family or anything you think
would be of interest would be greatly appreciated.
If you are sending photos please label the photos.
Walwa World June 2012
14
D DAY
Introduction
The anniversary of D Day, the 6th June was somewhat buried in
the Diamond Jubilee Celebrations this year but if D Day hadn’t
occurred we might not be having the Diamond Jubilee
Celebrations.
D-Day is the name given to the landing of 160,000 Allied troops
in Normandy, France, on June 6, 1944. The success of the
invasion of Normandy was really the beginning of the end for
Nazi Germany.
The invasion, also called “Operation Overlord,” involved five
separate landings by American, British, and Canadian troops
and was commanded by American General Dwight D.
Eisenhower. Stiff German resistance resulted in nearly 10,000
Allied casualties, but the Germans were ultimately unable to
repel the Allied forces.
Although German resistance continued even after all five
beachheads were taken, they had too few troops in the area to be
effective. By August 1944, all of Northern France was under
Allied control as Eisenhower began to prepare for the invasion
ofGermany.
Essential Facts
1.
A landing craft loaded with soldiers heads for the Normandy
coast. Many soldiers got seasick from the rough ride across the
English Channel. (Reproduced by permission of Corbis/The
Mariner's Museum)
2.
3.
4.
5.
American soldiers leaving the ramp of a coast guard landing
boat during the invasion of Normandy. (Photograph by Robert F.
Sergeant. Reproduced by permission of the National Archives
and Records Administration)
PREP/1/2 ‘BEAUTY AND THE BEAST’ STORIES
Gaston tried to kiss Belle. I also think that Gaston was ugly and
Belle was so pretty. Skye
Belle went to look for her Mum. She got attacked by the wolves.
‘OHHHHHHHHH’ Belle said. Shania
I liked the play ‘Beauty and the Beast’ because there were lots of
songs. The Beast turns back into a handsome Prince. Amy
My favourite part was when the Beast fell in love with Belle.
Jack H
The wolves scratched the Beast. Lachie
Belle was beautiful. I liked it when they fell in love. Karissa
I liked the part where they danced. I liked the green dancers.
Ada
I liked it when the Beast threw the wolves across the room. It
was funny. I know they looked real but they weren’t. Jack D
I liked it when the Beast threw the wolves. Well, I actually liked
the whole play. Jock
Gaston was mean. Belle was beautiful. The wolves were mean.
Talisha
My favourite part was when the Beast turned into a handsome
Prince. I think that the bit that was the funniest was when
Walwa World June 2012
Many scholars have tried to explain the term “D-Day,”
suggesting it stood for “decision day” or
“disembarkation day,” but most likely it comes from
the army’s use of the term to mean an “undefined day,”
or the first day of any operation.
D-Day was originally scheduled for June 5, but the
weather did not cooperate. The operation was pushed
back to June 6, 1944.
The D-Day invasion involved 5,000 ships carrying men
and vehicles across the English Channel as well as 800
planes dropping over 13,000 men in parachutes. A
further 300 planes dropped bombs on German troops
defending the beaches. Over 100,000 Allied troops
made it to shore that day.
The most difficult landing of D-Day was at Omaha
beach. Navigation problems resulted in many men
drowning before they reached land. Omaha Beach also
had the largest amount of German troops, and the
fighting was fierce. It is the Omaha Beach battle that is
reenacted in the opening of the movie Saving Private
Ryan.
The success of D-Day was a death knell for the
Germans. Hitler was forced to fight a two-front war
against the Russians on the East and the Americans,
British, Canadians, and French on the West. Within a
year, Hitler committed suicide, and the war was over.
I liked it when the Beast pushed away the wolves. Fergus
The wolves were cool. Ashton
I liked ‘Beauty and the Beast.’ Belle fell in love with the Beast
and the Beast fell in love with her. Julia
I loved it when Belle did not want to go to dinner with the Beast.
Lumiere, Mrs Potts, Chips and Cogsworth are enchanted people
in a castle. Elsie
The story was fabulous. Belle looked beautiful. Gaston wanted
to marry Belle. Gaston tried to kiss Belle. Emily
15
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Our last meeting was held at Harley’s home on 14th June. We
discussed the month’s book titled “Prodigal Summer” by
Barbara Kingsolver.
Most enjoyed this book, but a few felt Kingsolver was a bit
“preachy” about her ideas on environmental balance. It was
the story of three people which were seemingly not
associated, however, by the end of the story a link between
the three became clear.
A good read.
This month’s book is called “ Balzac and the Little Chinese
Seamstress” by Dai Sijie. This is set in China in 1971……
during Mao’s Cultural Revolution. Two sons of doctors are
sent away to be “re-educated” to a remote mountain village.
Doesn’t sound like the subject of an amusing book! However
the critique states “ …….there is a gentle, yet astute sense of
humour that runs through it, sometimes ironic, sometimes
satirical, sometimes slapstick”
Domestic and Commercial
Custom Built:
~ Kitchens ~ Vanities
~ Wardrobes ~ Shopfitting
Sounds an interesting contrast.
Our next meeting will be held at Jeannie’s on12th July.
30 Years Experience
“What good is the warmth of
summer, without the cold of winter
to give it sweetness.”
All Areas
Andrew Long
0260 371 555 or 0488 434 002
John Steinbeck
Walwa World June 2012
16