The first event planned by Albury RSPCA volunteer branch since COVID-19 restrictions began aims to provide advice and information as well as raise money. The group's co-ordinators will be there to talk to anyone with concerns about their pets or people thinking about adopting a dog or a cat. The goods for sale include pet equipment, household items, wool and white goods while there will be a sausage sizzle and coffee. Proceeds will support branch programs such as foster and adoption, the community animal welfare scheme (desexing), the information and education centre and the community aged care and disability scheme.

IN OTHER NEWS:

Another sold-out event demonstrates how keen people are to go out again. A range of Border designers will display their creations for spring/summer 2020/21. Those attending will be able to source a new look or get ideas for the future. The annual show is considered a great platform for the region's small businesses and in a year full of cancellations has provided something to work towards.

Live theatre returns to Albury-Wodonga this weekend with the first two of six sold-out performances by Albury Wodonga Theatre Company. With limited seating and various COVID-safe measures, the show's season was extended when tickets sold quickly. The Tennessee Williams drama examines the relationships and growing tension within a southern US family.

There's been a lot of uncertainty and plenty of changes, but on Saturday Cricket Albury-Wodonga will welcome back matches with relief. The opening round comprises 50 over games that begin at 11.30am, with North Albury and Albury to clash at Bunton Park in a preliminary final rematch. Corowa and Lavington will meet at Ball Park, Alexandra Park will host the contest between East Albury and St Patrick's, Tallangatta will tackle Wodonga Raiders and Belvoir faces Wodonga. New City has the bye.

The Gardens 4 Wildlife children's art competition aims to get families talking about backyard wildlife. Create an A4 picture of an Australian native animal in a garden setting, using pencils, textas, paints or collage. Full details on the Gardens 4 Wildlife Albury-Wodonga Facebook page.

Whatever your interests. the Kiewa Street Market is likely to have a stall to match. A joint fundraising venture of the Rotary Clubs of Albury North and Belvoir Wodonga, the weekly market has raised several million dollars for local, national and international charities over the years.

Berries, beef, tomatoes, eggs, bread, biscuits and more can be found at Saturday's Albury Wodonga Farmers' Market. Organisers remind NSW residents to bring their permit and face mask. The easiest way to access the market is to park in South Albury or Noreuil Park and walk across the bridge.

The easing of restrictions in regional Victoria and a more flexible border resident permit, means there are more opportunities to go for a drive and sample what our region has to offer. While everyone needs to stay safe - maintain your distance, wash your hands, abide by the various public health orders - people now have more freedom to enjoy attractions of the Border and North East. Many smaller towns that rely on tourism have struggled during the pandemic and would love to welcome you along.