This is Wangaratta

For the final episode of Season 2, we're celebrating a Wangaratta favourite, Edgars Books & News. Kylie chats with Liz, Tim, and Bernie Long about stepping into a business with decades of history and keeping its community spirit alive. You'll also hear from Rachel Hogan and Belinda Harrison, two of the friendly faces behind the counter, as they share what makes Edgars such a special place to work. A fitting, community-centred close to the season. Created by Patcast in collaboration with Invest Wangratta.

In this episode, Kylie we chats with Tim Oliver from NE Tracks LLEN, an organisation helping young people across the North East explore career pathways, connect with local opportunities, and build skills for the future. Tim shares how NE Tracks LLEN partners with schools, businesses, and the wider community to create real opportunities for young people — and why investing in their success is vital for the future of our region. Created by Patcast in collaboration with Invest Wangratta. This is Wangaratta Facebook This is Wangaratta Instagram  

Jess O'Sullivan, owner of Skinsational Cosmetic Nursing, knows firsthand just how supportive the Wangaratta business community can be. From referrals and collaborations to encouragement and friendship, Jess shares what it's like to grow a business in a town where businesses genuinely back one another. She talks about what it's like running a businesss in Wangaratta, from community impact and collaboration, to the challenges and benefits, and to the future. Created by Patcast in collaboration with Invest Wangratta. This is Wangaratta Facebook This is Wangaratta Instagram

Neil Barassi from Regional Psychology talks to Kylie about running his psychology buiness, and how getting involved — really showing up for your community — can have a powerful ripple effect, both personally and professionally. He talks about what it's like running a businesss in Wangaratta, from community impact and collaboration, to the challenges and benefits, and to the future. Created by Patcast in collaboration with Invest Wangratta. This is Wangaratta Facebook This is Wangaratta Instagram

In honour of Seniors Week, this episode shines a light on something close to the heart of Wangaratta — social connection. Kylie chats with Bek Nash-Webster from the Grit and Resilience Program about why staying connected matters for our mental and physical wellbeing as we age, and the many ways older adults in our community can build and maintain meaningful connections. References mentioned include: Establishing and Maintaining Social Connectivity: An understanding of the lived experiences of older adults residing in regional and rural communities  The Mental Health Continuum: From languishing to flourishing in life    

This episode features Henry Offord and Sheree Lette from BFT Wangaratta. They share their journey of bringing group strength training sessions to town, the challenges and rewards of running a local gym, and why building strong connections goes hand-in-hand with building strength. They talk about what it's like running a businesss in Wangaratta from community impact and collaboration, to the challenges and benefits, and to the future. Created by Patcast in collaboration with Invest Wangratta. This is Wangaratta Facebook This is Wangaratta Instagram

Set against the backdrop of the beautiful King Valley at the foothills of the Victorian High Country is Whitfield, which is where you'll find the award winning Valley View Caravan Park. Owned and operated by husband and wife team, Sue and John Remman, these two tree-changers arrived in the valley around 10 years ago, and haven't looked back. Sue joins Kylie in this episode to talk about what it's like running a businesss in Whitfield from community impact and collaboration, to the challenges and benefits, and to the future. Created by Patcast in collaboration with Invest Wangratta. This is Wangaratta Facebook This is Wangaratta Instagram

The Foot Centre in Wangaratta provides a holistic approach to podiatry, and they pride themselves on providing professional and compassionate care tailored for each patient. But apart from taking care of our feet, they, like many local businesses, also play an important role in supporting our community. Director, Alison Fitzgerald, joins Kylie in this episode to talk about what it's like running a businesss in Wangaratta, from community impact and collaboration, to the challenges and benefits, and to the future. Created by Patcast in collaboration with Invest Wangratta.

Country Universities Centres are dedicated learning and study hubs that support anyone studying any higher education course anywhere. Mark van Bergen, Centre Manager of CUC Ovens Murray, talks to Kylie about the how they're helping the Wangaratta community access higher education remotely, and the benefits of retaining skilled and qualified locals. Created by Patcast in collaboration with Invest Wangaratta.

There wouldn't be many locals who don't know, and don't enjoy, the delicious award-winning offerings at Milawa Cheese. They started in 1988 with their Milawa Blue, and have been creating beautiful artisanal cheeses ever since.   Jack Condron, Operations Manager, joins Kylie in this episode to talk about what it's like running a businesss in Wangaratta, from community impact and collaboration, to the challenges and benefits, and to the future. Created by Patcast in collaboration with Invest Wangratta.

M&M X-Treme World of Fitness is the brain child of Mel and Mike Paul who have been working in the fitness industry for many years, offering a wide range of group fitness classes. Mel and Mike joins Kylie in this episode to talk about what it's like running a businesss in Wangaratta, from community impact and collaboration, to the challenges and benefits, and to the future. Created by Patcast in collaboration with Invest Wangratta.

Reality Fine Clothing has been a family-owned, Wangaratta business for more than 30 years, offering a wide array of designer brands. Stacey Thayer joins Kylie in this episode to talk about what it's like running a businesss in Wangaratta, from community impact and collaboration, to the challenges and benefits, and to the future. Created by Patcast in collaboration with Invest Wangratta.

North East Funerals is the only family-owned and operated funeral home in Wangaratta, offering an important, meaningful and compassionate service to the community during their toughest times. Kat Watts, Care Consultant, joins Kylie in this episode to talk about what it's like running a businesss in Wangaratta, from community impact and collaboration, to the challenges and benefits, and to the future. Created by Patcast in collaboration with Invest Wangratta. This is Wangaratta Facebook This is Wangaratta Instagram  

Season 2 is starting June 27th 2025! This time we're showcasing our local buinesses in a wonderful collaboration with Invest Wangaratta. This is Wangaratta - Facebook This is Wangaratta - Instagram Invest Wangaratta Created by Patcast

The last episode of season 1 of This is Wangaratta! In this very special episode Kylie talks to Professor Jane Farmer, a place-based social connection specialist at Swinburne Uni, about the importance of social connection and how Wangaratta does this so well.   Professor Jane Farmer   Professor Jane Farmer - publications

The Wangaratta chapter of Zonta has been helping and encouraging our women and girls since 1988. And the current president of Zonta Wangaratta, Elizabeth Wilson, chatted to Kylie about all the great work they're doing to help empower and encourage women to achieve their full potential. Zonta Wangaratta website Zonta Wangaratta Facebook

Kevin Felmingham and Marion Gray talk to Kylie about the Wangaratta Kennel & Obedience Dog Club and how the club has been part of the Wangaratta community for decades. With an emphasis on positively reinforcing good behaviours, and training the owners as well as the dogs, they've created a wonderful space for dogs and their owners not just to learn, but to develop friendships and connections. WKODC Facebook WKODC website

With the upcoming Project 365 show on February 22nd 2025 at Avian Park, we wanted to catch up with Pete about the show, what they've been up to since we last spoke, and to revisit the Project 365 origin story shared in our very first interview back in October 2023. Get tickets here! Project 365 website Project 365 Facebook Project 365 Instagram

This episode shines a spotlight on the Wang Night Shelter and the important work they do to help those in need when faced with homelessness in Wangaratta. The wonderful Di Duursma talks to Kylie about how it started, where it's going, and the importance of compassion and community. Wang Night Shelter - Facebook Zac's Place Stable One La Bella Rocca Wangaratta Carevan Loaves and Fishes RCOW Affordable Housing Strategy

Gardening has many benefits to people's mental and physical health, their food literacy, and overall wellbeing. But when you overlay a community garden to this, these benefits are accompanied with social connection, friendships, and knowledge sharing. And this is just what the Wangaratta Community Garden does for Wangaratta. In this episode, Eric Bittner talks to Kylie about the Wangaratta Community Garden and the role it plays in our community. Wangaratta Community Garden - Facebook

Blind Sports and Recreation Victoria provide the opportunity for anyone, of any age, who are blind or have low vision, to participate in social sport and recreation programs. Tegan Allen who has been helping to build this wonderful service in the north-east talks to Kylie about how it works, why it's important and how people can get involved.  Blind Sports and Recreation Victoria - website Blind Sports and Recreation Victoria - Facebook Blind Sports and Recreation Victoria - Instagram

In this bonus episode Kylie talks to Bek Nash-Webster from the Grit and Resilience Program to talk about the Grit and Resilience Festival coming up on October 10th 2024. This festival has become a vibrant celebration of mental health, social connection, and community resilience. In this special episode, we explore how the festival started, the amazing growth it has seen over the years, and how it's evolved into one of the biggest events in the region. Grit and Resilience Program Grit and Resilience Program - Instagram Grit and Resilience Program - Facebook

The Wangaratta Book Circle provides a space to connect with others who share a love of reading. Apart from exploring various genres and authors, providing the opportunity for critical thinking and meaningful conversation, the Book Circle also fosters a sense of community and connection. U3A Wangaratta are providing the opportunity for our older residents to explore new interests and expand social connections. Learning in later years can lead to a more enriched and satisfying life, promoting mental agility and overall well-being, and the U3A offer a diverse range of courses. Wangaratta Book Circle (via U3A) Wangaratta Book Circle Facebook group U3A Wangaratta website U3A Wangaratta Facebook U3A Wangaratta email: [email protected]  

The Regional All Abilities Rebellion Football Team provide the opportunity for people with disabilities or mental health challenges to compete, connect, and have fun. In this epiosode, Kylie talks to Michael Virgona and Wade Daniel Blake from the team, who talk about why people should get involved either as players, volunteers, or supporters, and how they are encouraging inclusiveness through football. Regional All Abilities Rebellion Football Team - Facebook

Melissa Nyman, creator of the menopause support group, My Oh Meno, talks to Kylie about the supportive space she's created that is all about connection, education, and embracing the challenges of menopause, and its precursor perimenopause.  Note - this episode does not constitute medical advice. Consult your GP for any advice related to diagnosis and treatment. My Oh Meno Facebook My Oh Meno Instagram Resources: Australian Menopause Centre Menopause Alliance Australia Jean Hailes for Women's Health Dr Ginni Dr Mary Claire Dr Louise Newson Beth Dewing RN  

Georgia and Claire from NESAY talk to Kylie about the incredible work they do to support young people, and their families, in Wangaratta and the surrounding areas. NESAY have been helping our community for almost four decades, and their longevity is testament to the importance of the services they provide, and the quality they offer. NESAY website NESAY Facebook NESAY Instagram NESAY LinkedIn

President of Oak FM Community Radio, Neil Barassi, talks to Kylie about the role community radio plays in connecting a community and giving people the opportunity to listen to, and present, any genre of music. As a psychologist, Neil also generously shares his professional insights into the challenges, and strengths, of living in a regional community. Oak FM 101.3 website and live streaming Oak FM 101.3 Facebook   

Into Our Hands Community Foundation has invested more than $1.5 million into Wangaratta and our surrounding communities since 2012. This funding has helped establish, or sustain, hundreds of community initiatives, including many of the organisations featured in this podcast.  In this episode, Kylie talks to Peter McCabe (Into Our Hands Executive Officer), along with three of the Wangaratta-based sub-funds: the Garry Nash & Co Community Fund, Angie's Angels, and GIVE Wangaratta. Donate Apply for a grant Into Our Hands website Into Our Hands Facebook Angie's Angels Facebook Garry Nash & Co community support      

We talk to Jess Zuber from the SES Wangaratta Unit about the critical role they play in helping our community in times of need following natural disasters. It's hard to know where rural communities like Wangaratta would be without the SES's quick response, expertise and dedication, and Jess talks about what they do and how the Wangaratta community can get involved. Call 132 500 for flood, storm, tsunami and earthquake emergency. For life-threatening emergencies call Triple Zero (000). Facebook: Wangaratta SES Website: SES Victoria

We start the new year at the Wangaratta Library, but we talk about more than just books! Loueen Twyford and Tanya Hopper cover all the many and varied services and programs on offer. So if you're looking for a place to connect with groups, engage with programs, find some fun for the kids, and maybe read a book or two, then our library is the community loungeroom you need. Wangaratta Library - Facebook Wangaratta Library

In this episode we talk to two of our emergency food relief services, including Trudy Cornish from the Wangaratta Carevan and David Still from Anglicare's Loaves and Fishes program. Both provide an invaluable service to the Wangaratta community, whether it's the cooked meals by the Carevan (available Mon-Wed at Apex Park between 6pm-7pm), or groceries and essential items from the Loaves and Fishes program. Wangaratta Carevan website Wangaratta Carevan Facebook Loaves and Fishes phone: 03 5723 7900 Loaves and Fishes email: [email protected] Loaves and Fishes  

In this episode we talk to our remarkable neighbouhood and community houses. First up is Loretta Waters and Tanya Grant from the Open Door Neighbourhood House, followed by Tennille Hall from the Pangerang Community Hub. The services they provide for the community is outstanding, and is available to all Wangaratta residents. Open Door Neighbourhood House - Facebook Open Door Neighbourhood House - website Pangerang Community House - Facebook Pangerang Community Hub - website

Al Winters talks about how LINE Wangaratta is helping to provide a safe and supported LGBTQIA+ community within Wangaratta's broader community that helps celebrate diversity and inclusion. And Sharon Squires and Faryal Nawaz Khan talks about how NEMA is supporting Wangaratta's diverse multicultural community navigate life in Australia. LINE Wangaratta Facebook LINE Wangaratta website NEMA Facebook

Caz Sammon from Big Brothers Big Sisters Wangaratta talks about the work she's doing to help young people in Wangaratta feel more supported and confident. Caz gratefully acknowledges Into Our Hands who provided the opportunity for Pitch Up. And Matt Dillon from Boys to the Bush explains their mentoring model that helps boys connect and become the best version of themselves. Big Brothers Big Sisters Wangaratta Facebook Big Brothers Big Sisters Australia website Boys to the Bush Facebook Boys to the Bush website

Bek Nash-Webster from the Grit and Resilience Program talks about the incredible work being done by the program to encourage connection and inclusion in the Wangaratta community. And Pete Rourke from Project 365 talks about how they started and how they're helping Wangaratta to feel more connected through music and embracing the idea that it's ok not to be ok. Grit and Resilience website Grit and Resilience Facebook Grit and Resilience Instagram Project 365 Facebook Project 365 Instagram

Coming October 1st 2023! This is Wangaratta is a new podcast that explores all of what Wangaratta has to offer. This first series of monthly episodes shines a spotlight on the community groups, programs and services available to you, and how you can get involved.  Created by residents, for residents.  This is Wangaratta