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“It takes over everything” - shining a light on gambling harm

by Bonnie Collings”When you find that you’re at a venue before the venue even opens, because you’ve got to play a particular machine, you know you’ve got a problem, and I had a major problem,“ said former pokies addict Ann. Ann, not her real name...

Bonnie Collings

19 Nov 2024

News

“Make a Stand, Paint Your Hand” - using art to heal from family violence

by Bonnie CollingsFor Drouin based artist Keira Sloetjes, creating art helped her reclaim her life after years of domestic violence, abuse and sexual assault. Now, Keira’s work is on display at the West Gippsland Arts Centre as part of...

Bonnie Collings

19 Nov 2024

News

Open gardens this weekend

by Bonnie CollingsFull of colour and home to a 135 year old oak tree, Ben and Kerrie Brooker’s garden features a collection of rare and endangered plants that they have raised from seed. On the outskirts of Drouin, Ben and Kerrie’s garden “Treasured...

Bonnie Collings

19 Nov 2024

News

Volunteers the backbone of growing food relief program

by Bonnie CollingsAs demand continues to rise, the Longwarry Lions Food Relief program is seeking more volunteers help support community members in need. Program spokesperson Debbie Brown said the Longwarry service relied on the help of dedicated...

Bonnie Collings

06 Nov 2024

News

Giant placenta travels to Denmark

by Bonnie CollingsWith the aim of breaking down taboos and encouraging discussion around human biology and childbirth, local artist Rebecca Vandyk-Hamilton and her giant placenta sculpture will travel to Denmark this week to prepare for an...

Bonnie Collings

22 Oct 2024

News

Fairview units meet homeless need

by Bonnie CollingsTwelve months on from opening, renovated units at Fairview Village Warragul have provided safe and affordable housing for eight people facing homelessness. A partnership between Fairview Village and Quantum Support Services, the...

Bonnie Collings

15 Oct 2024