Following the recent report in the Southern Riverina News of Heather and Rod Beard having been diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease, interest has been expressed by others affected by the disease as well as families and carers from the local and surrounding towns.
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Having had to contend with treatment and coping without assistance, Heather and Rod have decided to assist others experiencing the same journey with this disease and would like to advise that they have organised a get together at the Tuppal Hotel in Finley this Friday, November 6 at 11am.
An invitation is extended to anyone within the Berrigan Shire area who would like to attend this informal gathering.
Further information can be obtained by contacting Heather on 0429 832 273 or Susan Hill 0408 831 309.
Heather is also proud and excited to advise she has participated in the ‘One Foot Forward’ walk for mental health and suicide awareness for the Black Dog Institute.
It is a cause close to her heart, and she succeeded in walking more than 130km for the month of October raising $1467.
She would like to take thank everyone who sponsored her and for the wonderful encouragement she received.
“Just because you have been diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease doesn’t mean you have to give up on achieving goals,” Heather said.
She is to be congratulated on her determination to take part in the walk and is an inspiration to us all.
Read Heather and Rod’s story here:
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Jeff Ward, vice chair of the Finley Local Health Advisory Committee (LHAC), recently attended the Conversations on the Couch session at Murray Street Café in Finley, hosted by representatives from Murrumbidgee Primary Health Network.
The session provided a valuable opportunity to discuss local healthcare services, the Finley Hospital upgrade and the ongoing health needs of the Berrigan Shire community.
Drawing on his experience as a high school principal, Jeff highlighted the importance of supporting young people and ensuring adolescent health remains a priority.
He also brought his perspective as president of the Finley RSL Sub-Branch, emphasising the importance of accessible and appropriate healthcare and support for veterans and our aging community.
Jeff said it was important for community members to continue sharing their experiences, knowledge and ideas to help shape the future of healthcare in the region.
“It's vital that we continue to have these conversations, share our experiences and knowledge, and advocate for the healthcare services our community needs.
“By working together and ensuring local voices are heard, we can help identify gaps in services, support better health outcomes and build a healthier future for everyone in our region.”
The Finley LHAC encourages community members to continue speaking up about local health priorities and contributing to conversations that help ensure healthcare services reflect the needs of the people they serve.
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Olwyn Mathers, one of Finley’s most delightful residents, has recently moved to Bendigo to be closer to her two daughters, one living in Bendigo and the other in Melbourne.
Olwyn was an immensely valued parishioner of Harvest Presbyterian Church for many years.
The Berrigan Shire Dementia Alliance also greatly appreciated her service on its committee.
Her stories of negotiating life with a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease helped a lot of people.
For a few months prior to her departure, Olwyn was a resident of Finley Regional Care.
Her gracious manner, beautiful smile and joyful nature endeared her to the staff and the other residents while she was there.
They are happy that Olwyn has gone to be with family but are definitely missing her.
Olwyn will also be remembered for the many years of nursing and health care she gave to the local community.
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The Finley Rotary Op Shop would like to announce that a special sale is taking place. With an excess of beautiful pre-loved clothing, they are offering six items for just $5. Of particular interest is the variety of formal wear.
Other items which could be of interest with Christmas just around the corner are the number of festive decorations available to be purchased.
So be sure to call in, have a chat with the volunteers and pick up a bargain at the same time.
If you feel you would like to join those who give of their time so generously and freely, new members are most welcome.
All funds raised at the Rotary Op Shop stay locally to help the local community.
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‘Unlocking Hope No. 22 - Understanding Dementia’, the next presentation organised by Berrigan Shire Dementia Alliance, will take place at the Finley RS Club on Wednesday, November 11 - 10.15am for 10.30am start.
The guest speaker will be Julie Mecham, a senior member of the team at Murrumbidgee Primary Health Network (MPHN).
This is not the first time that Julie has spoken at these presentations.
She has proven to be a very interesting speaker and this time she intends to talk about the recent initiatives by the MPHN that will benefit our community.
Those attending are advised there will be a break at 11am for the observance of Remembrance Day.
There will also be an opportunity to engage with Julie and members of the alliance, so please feel free to raise any questions that may be concerning you.
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Just a reminder that members of the Finley RSL Sub-branch will be positioned outside Finley IGA today, tomorrow and Friday and again Monday and Tuesday selling memorabilia in the leadup to Remembrance Day, Wednesday, November 11.
They will also be holding a street stall this Friday, November 6 and would appreciate donations of cakes, slices and any other saleable items.
A raffle will be drawn at the street stall, for two great prizes.
First prize is a Country Road toilet bag and carry bag, second prize a Lekiu Class Frigate jigsaw by Military Jigsaws.
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Finley Regional Care Auxiliary is excited to be presenting six gardens in and around Finley for the annual Springtime Open Gardens to be held this Sunday, November 8 between 9am and 4pm.
Tickets are $20 each including morning tea and are available by scanning the QR code on posters around the CBD or from Finley School of Arts, Murray St, from 9am on the day, where wristband and map can be collected. Children are admitted free.
Light lunches will be available as well as stalls along the way.
A raffle with the prize of a garden cart full of amazing garden related goods will be held and won by some lucky ticket holder.
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Members of CanAssist Finley Branch would like to remind everyone that the annual general meeting will be held in the Country Club function room next Tuesday, November 10, at 6pm. New members are most welcome.
Please keep Sunday, November 22 free for the CanAssist High Tea fundraiser which will be held at the Finley Sport and Recreation reserve rooms. Start time is 2pm.
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Items for ‘From Finley’ may be submitted by phoning 0428 293 922, emailing anne.freestone@bigpond.com, or left at the Southern Riverina News office. Please include a contact name and phone number.