On the Grapevine: Prolific local author and NCN Health donation

In Team Skippy, much of the story is set in Thailand, and Clancy focuses primarily on Sam, now a criminal barrister who has resigned her position with the company to open her own legal office.

She is a strong advocate for social justice and builds long-lasting relationships with people across a broad spectrum of professions and cultures while maintaining strong values.

The sixth book in the series, Brave Justice, is nearing the finishing stage and may be available early next year.

Clancy admits he has done a bit of everything in his life — a lawyer in Melbourne, a senior public servant, a talented photographer, human rights activist, social justice campaigner, author and publisher. And he is, of course, a recognised three-time winner in the Australian National Literary Awards, in 2006, 2007 and 2011.

The popular author writes fiction for young adults, has lived in four countries and speaks three languages.

Clancy was captivated by the people of Thailand from his first visit in 1973 where he lived for two years before being forced to return home as the global financial crisis hit.

Over the years, he has formed strong friendships with the people of Thailand and gained valuable insight into aspects of their unique culture.

A passionate photographer who has been published in the United States, Clancy enjoys capturing photos of ‘real people’.

“Travel makes me a better person and a better writer, I see and experience real life,” Clancy said.

“Gunnadah Hero was my first book and has actually been my bestseller.

“I have also written 150 short stories, which is fun and I really enjoy. Writing is fulfilling, and I will keep on with it as long as I can.

“If you have already read my books on Sam’s life, you will have noticed the last two words I write at the end of each book is the title of the next one.”

Soroptimists donate to NCN Health Cobram

Soroptimist International of Cobram-Barooga has held several fundraisers in recent months and recently was able to present a cheque for $4000 to NCN Health Cobram.

This generous donation has enabled NCN Health to purchase a much-needed bladder scanner machine.

Nurse unit manager Susan Huffer said the scanner had many uses and was invaluable to the staff when treating patients.

“The support of Soroptimists and other volunteer organisations is extremely valuable to our health service, and we are enormously grateful for their generosity,” Ms Huffer said.

Soroptimists president Karen Bruce said she was proud to present the cheque to NCN Health Cobram, which was made possible by those who attended the various activities organised by the group.

Save the date: Futures Expo headed to Cobram

Cobram and District Specialist School is to present Futures Expo 2024, on Thursday, August 8 from 10.30am to 12.30pm.

It will be held at Cobram Civic Centre, with more than 25 stallholders booked to attend.

The expo is an event designed to assist students who are already receiving, or may be eligible to receive, NDIS funding, to discover what services/providers are in the surrounding area.

Students are encouraged to get in early and confirm their attendance. Other participants in Moira Shire and surrounding areas who are eligible for NDIS are encouraged to also attend, and organisers look forward to seeing you all on the day.

If you are interested, please rsvp to bec.einsporn@education.vic.gov.au or contact Cobram Specialist School on 5872 1643.

Cobram Lions Club Art Show

Get your art entries in for the Cobram Lions Club Art Show, which will be held at Killara House (Cobram Showgrounds) on August 17 and 18. Entries are expected to exceed that of previous years.

There are two divisions, 10 to 14 years and open (15-plus). The first prize is $250.

Entries close on August 11.

Contact Cobram Lions Club on 0439 340 109 for more details.