Packing up six years to return to Melbourne is an activity that could be described as bigger than Texas.
Hold tight - we’re checking permissions before loading more content
Yet, it is not so much the physical side of things, it brings with it mental apprehension.
What am I leaving behind, I ask myself?
A beautiful country community where people rally around those in need, during times of hardship.
Where the town’s activities reflect the hearts of its people, whether it’s fundraising, charity days, sporting and school events or volunteers willingly give their time to ensure its success.
I have been extremely fortunate to have had the opportunity to write ‘On The Grapevine’ each week and in doing so, have been honoured to meet so many of the district’s finest people, both young and old.
Each one had a story to tell, each one very different, and so often when I asked a person would they care to speak with me, the response would be, “Oh no, my life isn’t very interesting.”
So wrong, everyone has something to say, and once he or she started I was often amazed by their heart-warming story.
Perhaps it was due to the coffee we shared during our chat.
The age-old saying, “If you want something done, you need to speak to a busy person” remains relevant today.
While not keen to name people in particular, especially when there are so many generous and wonderful folk in the Cobram district, there are several women I believe deserve special recognition.
People I have seen out and about regularly doing something to help the community.
Rachel McKay works full-time with her husband, Colin, managing a BP service station for Lowes Petroleum.
She is also a mum and a grandmother, but this has not deterred Rachel from being involved in activities outside the business.
The amount that she, her family and friends have raised every year when hosting the Biggest Morning Tea at the servo has been staggering.
Over a period of 13 years, the total reached is now between $80,000 and $90,000. This has been matched dollar for dollar by Lowes Petroleum.
Nikki Goldsworthy works full-time at Cobram Regional Care and readily commits to becoming involved in whatever is happening in Cobram.
She is also a mum and a grandmother, always willing to play a lead role with Cobram Barooga Business and Tourism.
She is also integral to Cobram’s Australia Day celebrations and other events, where she is a vocalist and presenter.
Cath and Andrew of Noonan’s Jewellers operate a highly successful business, which has just been crowned Business of the Decade at the prestigious 2026 Australian Small Business Champion Awards.
Not only do the couple work hard at their business but also encourage fellow retailers to join them in town promotions for the benefit of local traders.
Cath takes the time from her business to speak to, and encourage, other owners to become involved.
Sporting clubs work hard to provide for the community and look after the young ones, understanding they are the future.
Hundreds of hours each week are required by volunteers to get the teams on the pitch and to keep players fit, and to raise funds to continue operating.
Service clubs, while smaller in number than previously, still work hard to raise funds to help keep groups afloat. Not such an easy task as their members age.
It’s about circulation of finances from one pocket to another, and Cobram does it well, due to the community’s determination and generosity.
Looking at the retail sector, it has grown considerably during the past six years, which augers well for the future.
With a new shopping complex and three supermarkets, Cobram is attracting more outsiders, and new clothing stores and eateries have added to the shopping attractions that Cobram has been aiming for.
One disappointment I have found is the town’s coffee shops, which appear to close their doors at the same time of day, around 3pm.
I wonder if perhaps they would collectively consider rostering for a later closure, one or two afternoons a week. It may well be worthwhile.
Speaking of coffee shops, I would like to acknowledge the ‘Table of Knowledge’ at Tay’s Café where I was fortunate to meet a group of retired gentlemen and women who enjoyed a chat with other folk — some they knew, others they didn’t.
Conversation was interesting — they had great discussions, and sometimes arguments, and ultimately ‘The Grapevine’ benefited, as I was fortunate indeed to speak with most.
I learnt about beef cattle, dairying, general farming, horse riding, bull riding and much more. Not bad for a city girl.
Cobram people, how can I thank you sufficiently for the past six years, for your acceptance and friendship?
Be assured I will never forget this special town on the banks of the Murray, nor will I forget any of you.
Oh yes, there is one more thing.
Thompsons Beach looks wonderful today and is gaining greater use on a regular basis.
Yet, it remains somewhat disappointing to see little or no advertising on the highway promoting one of the country’s best inland beaches.
Why is this so? Cobram needs to attract more tourists; tourism helps every business in town to progress. Why are we keeping the beach a secret?
We must promote what we have. A prime example of lack of marketing signage is when the Australian Beach Volley Championships on Thompsons Beach is held — advertising boards are virtually non-existent.
It could be quite a drawcard if only it was marketed to tour companies with special packages to suit those interested in beach volleyball or looking for a new holiday destination.
Editor’s note
While Barb is off to Melbourne for a well-deserved life of rest and relaxation, On the Grapevine will continue, from June 3. Keep an eye out in next week’s Courier for more on that.