CHARLTON NEIGHBOURHOOD HOUSE

The Charlton community has rallied to get behind an important initiative lead by the Charlton Forum and Charlton Neighbourhood House. A range of work has been undertaking to beautify areas of the town, with many hours being undertaken mostly by volunteers from the North Central Garden Club, Lions, Flexible Learning Options program students, Beautify Charlton, CWA, OASIS, and civic minded individuals. The High Street concrete garden pots were given a lick of paint and some new plantings to enhance the new coloured tourism surrounds, while existing garden beds were weeded and trimmed back in preparation for spring growth. The Buloke Shire has assisted by donating some materials, waiving tip fees and clearing rubbish away.
The main effort has concentrated around the access lane between the Globe Hotel and commercial building next door. Trimming of non-native plantings, removing rocks and rubble, erecting a new fence, painting and laying of suitable all access walkway toppings. A huge thanks go to local trades people including Darren Mills, who has been co-ordinating the program, Wes Jenkyn, Chris Mathews and Brad Getley for all freely giving their time and expertise for the program. The end result will be a clearly defined access lane between the High Street and Avoca River precinct.
A thankyou BBQ concluded the mornings work, and everyone was extremely pleased on what had been accomplished by the group. This will be appreciated by the many visitors expected to our town over the coming months. Contact the Charlton Neighbourhood House if you would like details on how you can get involved with further planned activities, including a public art work proposed in the newly refurbished laneway.

The Charlton Neighbourhood House was pleased to present for the community an informative session on the best ways to submit successful grants for local clubs and organizations. Hosted by Rhonda Allan from the Mallee Sports Assembly, attendees learnt some of the key elements and best tips that organizations look for when considering applications.
With several local groups being represented on the morning, those attending all agreed it was a terrific session that will greatly assist any future funding grants. As many organizations seek to expand their facilities, purchase new equipment or assist in perhaps commemorating an occasion, the available pool of funding being offered often is limited. This course was valuable in offering up the best chance in succeeding with an application. Enquire today with the Charlton Neighbourhood House if you would like to take part in any upcoming activities.”

The Charlton Neighbourhood House recently presented a well-attended Mosaics Course over 3 weekends that saw participants create both a kit form set of Mediterranean placemats, and a free style project of their own choosing.
Under the friendly and helpful direction of instructor Bronwyn Fisher, the group were eager to learn the tips and tricks of creating a beautiful mosaic item of their choosing which ranged from flower pots to butterfly stencils. With everything needed supplied, those attending just had to provide their creative energy into the project, and all attending were happy with the final products.
There is a lot of interest in continuing the activity on a regular basis, and perhaps even working to create a public space mosaic where young people and other members of the community can get involved and contribute. All agreed that future courses of mosaics would certainly be welcomed by the Charlton Community.

To celebrate Law Week 2023, the Charlton Neighbourhood House was pleased to partner with the Victorian Law Foundation to produce and distribute free ‘End of Life Planners’ to the Charlton Community. Over 40 people took advantage of the package that included information pamphlets from the Office of the Public Advocate, Legal Aid, and the Victorian Law Foundation.
While not a substitute for a Legal Will or Powers of Attorney, the planner lets family and friends know a persons wishes across a range of areas from burial or cremation options, the disposal of sentimental objects, to the care of pets. Medical treatment options were also listed as well as information on where to obtain both local legal advice and that from larger organizations.
Copies will also be distributed to a number of clubs and organizations for members of all ages to record their feelings on what should happen in the event of an untimely passing. The Charlton Neighbourhood House was grateful for the funding provided again by the Victorian Law Foundation to assist local residents at what can be a most difficult time. If you like a copy of the planner drop in or call the Charlton Neighbourhood House on 0473 759 456.

​“The Charlton Neighbourhood Houses’ regular Table for 12 cooking sessions at the North Central Trade School  continued in April with popular local Robbie Spruhan hosting a fun filled evening of making Pasties. Well known around town for his wonderful pastry items, Robbie provided participants across a range of ages with all the necccersary ingredients and instructions to proceed and assemble 4 delicious pasties each. Abley assisted by Neville Cloak, the participants produced some terrific food that was sampled socially on the night, with the remainder being taken home to be enjoyed. All agreed it was a great evening and were keen to take part in future sessions.
The classes continue in May with winter Vegan Curries being hosted by Tessa Fitzpatrick, and Pad Thai with Kim Thompson in June. Book your place today through the Charlton Neighbourhood House to avoid disappointment.”

​“With the reopening of the Charlton Swimming Pool, the Charlton Neighbourhood House was pleased to be able to recommence several of their summer activities. These included the return of the weekly Gentle Water Exercise sessions, preschoolers Water Acclimation classes, and the ever popular early morning swim program.
Much thanks is owed to Buloke Shire staff and contractors who worked hard to get the pool open as soon as possible after flood damage to equipment, and for waiving the lifeguard fees for these activities.
Places are still available for the early morning swimming on Tuesday and Thursday mornings, and gentle exercises classes on Wednesday afternoons. All enquires to the Charlton Neighbourhood House on 0473 759. 456.”

​“Recently, Shelley Nelson and Hayley Soulsby successfully held a very special morning tea in Charlton to raise funds for Breast Cancer research. Starting with an idea that followed on from an earlier fund raiser that involved Hayley doing a month daily squats, the thought of combining food and raising money seemed a lot more sensible. Last year, Shelley, Hayley and seven other locals walked 60km’s in ten days for the Peter McCallum Cancer Foundation, with the team raising over $19,000.
After a postponement due to the recent flood emergency, the date was rescheduled and a great crowd turned out in support of the event. Pink decorations, games, a silent auction, raffles and a wonderful spread of delicious morning tea treats were on offer, and assistance from many helpers ensured the morning was a great success. Thanks go also to Buloke Shire for making the venue available at no charge and the Charlton Neighbourhood House for their support.
The strength and generosity of the Charlton community was again shown with $2,824 being raised by those attending, and with online donations, in excess of $4,000 was the events final result. Hayley and Shelley wish to give a huge thankyou to all those who attended and helped make the day the success it was.”