Loddon Herald 3 October 2024

Loddon HERALD

Inglewood, Korong Vale, Mitiamo,

EDITORIAL

Phone 0419549743

Email loddonherald@gmail.com

Web www.loddonherald.com.au

Post PO Box 1188

WEEKEND FORECAST

Auxiliary’s $60,000 life-saving donation

NEW life-saving equipment

worth $60,000 has been handed over to community ambulance officers by Inglewood and District Ambulance Auxiliary.

Auxiliary members, who raised funds through their op-shop, presented officers from Wedderburn and Boort with Zoll heart monitors and defibrillators as well as battery-powered airway suction units on Tuesday night.

Secretary Deb Coon said the auxiliary had been supporting the Loddon district for more than 51 years by providing vital emer-

gency equipment to ambulance services and donating lifesaving equipment such as AEDs to almost every community within the Loddon shire.

She said the latest donations would support the Wedderburn and Boort ambulance community officers.

“Valued at almost $60,000the monitors are $28,000 each and suction units are $1000 each - the equipment with assist local teams with the safe and efficient assessment, management and early escalation of care of pa-

tients in their communities and no doubt contribute to saving lives,” she said.

“The monitor and defibrillator is able to monitor a patient’s vital signs and heart rhythm and send this information by internet to an intensive care paramedic to review if required.

“The defibrillator is also able to analyse a patient’s heart rhythm faster than a standard AED and advise sooner if a shock is advised to be delivered. The unit also provides real time feedback of the effectiveness of CPR.”

IN BRIEF

Niemann in charge

FORMER Loddon Shire and Greater Bendigo chief executive officer Craig Niemann has been appointed interim CEO of embattled Horsham Rural City. He started in the role on Monday following the resignation of Sunil Bhalla this month. The Government appointed a municipal monitor in August following governance concerns about the council.

Doors close

TWO Inglewood businesses have closed in the past fortnight. Robyn Thornbury poured her last coffees at Otto’s that had opened in the former Pelican Hotel earlier this year. And Carey Ims moved stock out of her Horseworld business after flagging closure amid criticism of Loddon Shire wanting compliance with national disability access guidelines for businesses displaying goods on footpaths.

Clock change

DAYLIGHT saving time starts on Sunday at 2am when clocks were moved forward one hour. Remember to change clocks before retiring on Saturday night. Daylight saving time ends on April 6.

Members of Inglewood and District Ambulance Auxiliary and ambulance community officers from Wedderburn and Boort watch on as Noel Pianto receives one of the new monitors from auxiliary secretary Deb Coon. LH PHOTO

Minister’s ‘secret calls’

By CHRIS EARL

HEALTH Minister Mary-Anne Thomas has hit country roads selling the State Government’s new local network model.

The minister’s visits to health services at Inglewood and Boort came just weeks after a key review recommendation to merge rural hospitals was rejected by the Government.

Ms Thomas’ mid-month tour was only revealed late last week by Western Victoria Region MP Jacinta Ermacora.

According to Ms Ermacora, the minister also visited other Ripon electorate health services in St Arnaud, Maryborough and Ararat.

“Every hospital, though unique, shares a common goal: to provide the best possible care to our community. This is what the new Local Health Service Networks will provide. Each of these hospitals can connect with nearby services to provide more seamless care, while retaining the outstanding local leadership,” said Ms Ermacora.

Local media in the three areas were not told of the visits.

A spokesperson for the minister said on Monday: “Visiting hospitals and meeting with hospital staff is a part of the minister’s role and one she undertakes regularly at health services across the state - these visits include discussing current health matters and meeting key staff.”

The Government review had called for creation of mega health

networks with Loddon services part of a region controlled in Bendigo and stretching north to Mildura. Instead, Premier Jacinta Allan announced the injection of an extra $1.5 billion in funding for the state’s hospitals and said hospitals would not be forced into mergers. Ripon MP Martha Haylett said

4–6 OCTOBER 2024

Popping up in towns throughout the shire, The Loddon Valley Arts Trail puts colour, flair and imagination on the map.

Venues are open Friday 1pm-4pm, Saturday 10am-4pm and Sunday 10am-3pm unless otherwise noted in the program.

Scan the QR code for more information and to book any of this year’s events.

after the announcement:

“We will establish between 11 to 14 local health service networks to strengthen the existing health service partnerships.

“Each network will have a formal relationship with a major tertiary, a women’s and a children’s hospital. This will mean patients can more easily and quickly ac-

cess specialist care when they need it. It will also strengthen referral pathways and enable the sharing of expertise across specialities.”

The Loddon Herald understands new budgets for health services will be finalised shortly.

Ms Thomas’ visit to Inglewood on September 17 came on the first anniversary of community protests to stop the Government knocking down the former ambulance station. Residents had blockaded the Hospital Street site earlier in September 2023 and again on September 25 when wrecking crews tore down the 1980s building erected with community contributions.

They had wanted the old station retained for either hospital or community use but the Government claimed the building contained asbestos. Within hours of demolition the Government said asbestos was only suspected to be in the building and later Freedom of Information requests revealed assessments had not found asbestos.

“The building (was) demolished because it is no longer fit-for purpose and would limit the functionality of the new Inglewood ambulance station,” the Government said at the time. “Demolishing the old building means we can provide paramedics with new and improved vehicle access, giving them the modern home base they need and deserve to do what they do best – save lives,” the Government said after demolition.

IN BRIEF

Flag only

TARNAGULLA Ward councillor Linda Jungwirth has updated her stance on the Rainbow Pledge election candidates have been asked to take by Victorian Pride Lobby to only flying the rainbow flag. Cr Jungwirth last week told the Loddon Herald she supported all pledge action calls apart from flying the rainbow flag but later “clarified” continued backing to fly the flag on specific days.

Ballots on the way

BALLOT papers will be mailed to Loddon Shire’s Inglewood Ward and Tarnagulla Ward residents next week as voting gets underway for the council elections.

Service finalist

BOORT Distriict Health is a semi-finalist in the 2024 Community Achievements Awards. BDH is one of nine regional service award finalists.

Drought help

THE Victorian Government this week announced a support package for Western Victoria farmers faced with a prolonged green drought.

Jacka book

A NEW book by acclaimed author Peter FitzSimonsThe Legend of Albert Jacka - will be released this month. Jacka grew up on Wedderburn and was Australia’s first Victoria Cross recipient in World War One.

Health Minister Mary-Anne Thomas visits regional hospitals. LH PHOTO

Bridge work will take four months

WORK to replace flood-damaged Chamberlains Road Bridge will start this month.

The bridge was abruptly closed in May, with an 8km detour from the Calder Highway for residents to stay until January.

Residents erected protest signs on the bridge near Inglewood.

Loddon Shire Council’s bid for flood recovery funding of repair and replacement works was rejected by the State Government as red tape continued to delay millions of dollars in recovery projects from the October 2022 floods. Council then decided to fund works from its own budget.

“The culvert replacement project is scheduled to be completed in January 2025 to allow the road to reopen. Following this, an additional guard rail will be in-

stalled. That component will be completed by 30 June,” according to a council spokesperson.

Residents have told the Loddon Herald they welcome a start on replacement work.

afternoon. A pole supporting the verandah of the historic former Charlton Tribune building was bent when ht by a vehicle about midday. Danny Martin, Wycheproof’s

Mick Ward, controller Michael George and William assess the damage.

Finalist in Rural Press Club awards

YOUR local Loddon Herald has been named a finalist in the 2024 Rural Press Club of Victoria rural and regional journalism and photography awards.

The Loddon Herald was one of five to be listed a finalist last week in the prestige media outlet of the year category.

It is the third year your local newspaper has been a finalist, winning the award in 2022 and runner-up to ABC radio last year.

The Loddon Herald has also been listed as a finalist in four other categories - journalist of the year, community champion journalist, best coverage of a breaking news event and best sports story.

This year’s awards were entered by 78 media outlets across newspapers, radio and television.

Awards winners will be announced at the annual club dinner in Bendigo next week.

Catch-up with Colleen on Wednesday 9th October Cafe 3517, Brooke Street, Inglewood, between 10am and Noon

STATE Emergency Service volunteers from Wedderburn helped stabalise a damaged Charlton verandah on Saturday

Jeff Dalton,

LH PHOTO

Residents protest May’s snap closure

Residents dial operator help

NOTORIOUS Loddon phone blackspot towns have called in telcos to hear their complaints.

Almost a year after the Loddon Herald started its Dial Us In campaign to improve telecommunications, Telstra and NBN will front a community meeting called by the Newbridge, Arnold and Llanelly Community Plan Committee.

The October 14 meeting in Newbridge comes as Telstra on Monday started a complete rebuild of its mobile base station at Inglewood Nature Conservation Reserve to improve 4G services and 5G coverage.

Telstra says Newbridge is classed as a high-cost site as there are no existing towers close to the town.

Community plan committee president Helen Waite said poor telephone service in the area was “bad for business and disenfranchising the community”.

“The Government needs to realise that the more a community is disenfranchised, the more divided society becomes,” she said. “And that’s a major problem.”

The committee has previously written to local members of Parliament in their push for better connectivity that Ms Waite says is needed for community safety.

“We feel forgotten,” she said.

The State Government in August 2022 announced partnerships with telcos Optus and TPG Telecom to build a new tower and upgrade 13 mobile towers in the area from 4G to 5G through it Connecting Victoria program.

It said coverage would span Golden Square, Flora Hill and Kennington, as well

as Epsom, Eaglehawk and Kangaroo Flat, and out to Newbridge.

However, details of work to improve service at Newbridge has not been confirmed. The Government said work would be finished by 2025.

Newbridge and Laanecoorie, popular tourist destinations, are notorious Loddon mobile phone blackspots.

Residents on the Wimmera Highway between Newbridge and Marong have also voiced frustration this year.

This week’s Inglewood works will see a series of temporary outages or reduction in mobile coverage until tomorrow, according to Telstra regional manager Steve Tinker.

Telstra gave customers one business day’s notice of possible disruptions, making the announcement last Thursday on the eve of the AFL grand final public holiday.

Mr Tinker said there would also be interruptions from this Saturday until next Wednesday during daylight hours “as we complete the integration of the new network and conduct the call testing”.

NUCLEAR?

It’s our energy future and we need to be informed. Decisions are being made that will impact our lives well into the future

Come and hear two high profile expert analysts pull apart the energy plans for Australia with a focus on the Canadian nuclear experience.

Director of Energy Research at the Centre for Independent Studies, has reshaped the conversation around nuclear energy in Australia. Aidan’s work was instrumental in the CSIRO’s decision to include large-scale nuclear for the first time in this year’s GenCost report. His paper How to Build Low-Cost Nuclear provides policymakers with guiding principles for building a nuclear power industry in Australia.

AIDAN MORRISON

DR CHRIS KEEFER

Heirloom tractor lost in shed fire

FIREFIGHTERS battled flames and exploding gas bottles for more than hour before extinguishing a shed fire on Friday.

The Dingee blaze destroyed collectable automotive parts and a prized 1962 John Deere 20D tractor.

Owner Michael Fitchett said he had been sleeping when fire started in the nearby shed about 8am.

Mr Fitchett said he woke to see fire coming from the shed that he had erected in 2002.

He said the tractor was a family heirloom, complete with original motor and purchased by his father from a market gardener in Bendigo.

“I had just used it (in recent days) while cleaning up around the property,” he said.

Mr Fitchett, a registered recycler, said he had lived at the Dingee property for 32 years.

“I’ve lost the tractor, collectables, car parts - GT Falcon parts in their original boxes and still with receipts,” he said.

“And there were car motors and a car ... this has been my hobby.

“Will probably never get over the loss ... I’m 72 now,” Mr Fitchett said.

Dingee Tandarra, Mitiamo, Ser-

pentine, Raywood and Eaglehawk units attended the blaze.

They prevented flames spreading to Mr Fitchett’s home.

Senior Constable Peter Halpin, of Serpentine police, said there were no suspicious circumstances. A CFA fire investigator from Echuca also assessed the fire scene.

Dingee brigade members returned 12 hours later when embers flared from the morning blaze.

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Local legend has a story to share

NONEGENARIAN golfer and Loddon legend Betty Higgs is preparing to share her story of life at Bridgewater’s community hub The Bridge this month.

Mrs Higgs will be guest speaker at morning tea. She will talk about life as a student at Bridgewater Primary School, a teacher in the Australian outback and golfing her way across the Nullarbor Plains at age 90.

Inglewood Anglican Church Parish has made the Bridgewater church a community hub with regular morning cuppa and chats and guest speakers since establishing the program two years ago.

Meanwhile, the parish will mark 160 years of worship at St John the Evangelist on October 13. It will be the second significant service for the parish in a month, marking a similar milestone at St Augustine’s Inglewood in September.

Caravan blaze investigated

POLICE have arrested a man after a caravan fire.

They believe the fire in Reef Street, Wedderburn, about 3pm last Wednesday was deliberately lit.

Police said a Wedderburn man, 34, was assisting them with inquiries.

Wedderburn Fire Brigade volunteers attended the fire.

Michael Fitchett after fire destroyed his Dingee shed on Friday. LH PHOTO

Native fish will party on fresh river flows

A SPRING carnival of a different kind is set to take off in the Loddon River system this month.

While punters look to find the best bets on racecourses across the state, the perfect trifecta could be within the banks of three northern Victorian waterways.

Water for the environment will flow down the Loddon River, Serpentine Creek, and Pyramid Creek during October to provide native fish with a party of their own. Environmental water releases from Laanecoorie Reservoir will target flows of 400 megalitres a day.

These flows will continue downstream and will combine with environmental flows from Ghow Swamp down Pyramid

Creek which is targeting a flow rate of 650 ML a day at Kerang Loddon Weir

At the same time, a smaller flow of up to 120 ML a day will head down Serpentine Creek for two days.

North Central Catchment Management Authority environmental water project officer Peter O’Toole said the flows were designed to improve water quality and get local fish on the move.

“For native fish, spring is their time to shine. It’s when they move around the system, searching for food and for breeding partners,” he said.

“It does sound like a big party, but it’s really important to ensure they get access to new areas.

“These flows will help them do that, by connecting the Murray River with hundreds of kilometres of the Loddon River, as well as some of the best feeding spots in the country at Ghow Swamp.”

The flows will also help improve water quality in Serpentine Creek by refreshing any stagnant pools.

“If you’re a Murray cod, silver perch, or golden perch fan, this is celebration time,” he said.

“Monitoring has shown us that almost three-times as many fish move up the Loddon when flows such as these are on. That movement allows for a greater diversity of fish and healthier populations. It will also make for great fishing in the future.”

New event promises day of popping corks

LOCAL produce will be the flavour of the day at a new Loddon event organisers say will be the ultimate celebration of regional charm and community fun.

Cork and Fork Loddon Valley details were announced on Monday, a day being organised by Southern Loddon Tourism and backed by the shire council.

Organisers say November’s event at Newbridge Recreation Reserve will bring together the best of Loddon Valley’s food, wine and music. Thirty local vendors will be part of the event.

Shire CEO Lincoln Fitzgerald

said council has supported Southern Loddon Tourism to bring the event to the region.

“After COVID and then flooding across our shire, we are pleased to see Southern Loddon Tourism build and develop the concept for a major event such as this, to support local producers and communities, as well as showcasing Loddon Shire’s liveability to visitors.

“This is a fantastic opportunity for locals and visitors alike to truly experience the incredible array of food, wine and local produce that can only be found in our region.”

Southern Loddon Tourism president Norma Sokolowski encouraged people to book their tickets now to avoid missing what would be an unforgettable regional experience.

“Cork and Fork Loddon Valley is a true ‘choose your own adventure’ event, whether it’s sampling the array of food and wine, or enjoying a relaxing and entertaining day out,” she said.

“Bring a camping chair or picnic blanket, soak in the atmosphere, and enjoy a delicious and relaxing day out that has something for everyone.”

Carol’s grinning after flag win

CAROL Giorlando’s love of the Brisbane Lions had no bounds at the weekend ahead of the club’s first AFL premiership in 20 years.

Almost 200 balloons festooned the front yard of her Wedderburn home along with bunting, streamers and largerthan-life toy lions.

Carol was confident her beloved Lions would avenge their 2023 loss as she continued a family tradition of flying the Brisbane colours.

“Twenty years ago, we were living in Inglewood and we had something like 330 balloons filled with helium at the house in Sullivan Street,” Carol said. She said the tradition honoured her late son Peter. “He was a mad Lions fan.”

Brisbane won Saturday’s final 18.12 (160) to Sydney’s 9.6 (60). The Lions recorded a VFL/AFL grand final statistical first by having a scoreline exactly double their opponents on goals, behinds and points.

Irene Budge, Carol Giorlando and Aaron Giorlando and dog Jeffrey in the mood for Brisbane’s premiership on Saturday. LH PHOTO

Owners will know first

TRANSMISSION Company Victoria hgas pushed back release of its VNI West preferred corridor a month as it scrambles to secure land access agreements with owners.

An estimated one in four landowners have signed agreements for TCV staff and consultants to enter properties between Stawell and Kerang and through northern sections of the Loddon Shire.

The original $10,000 land access “sweeetener” was lifted to $50,000 last year.

Leading opponent of the renewable energy transmission line project Gerald Feeny said offers had since more than doubled to property owners, estimated to total between 300 and 500 on the route - to get farmer signatures.

TCV told the Loddon Herald it had increased the payment to landholders who provided larger areas for survey access.

VNI West program director Tony Hedley said: “TCV currently has about 120 signed land access agreements with landholders. Voluntary access agreements have allowed TCV to undertake nearly 60 field surveys on private land in 2024.”

Mr Hedley said the surveys

were important to confirm the condition and environmental sensitivities of the land, and to enable us to reduce potential impacts of the project to people and farming.

A stakeholder update on Monday said VNI West landholder liaisons from this week “will seek to contact people in the preferred easement and share details including an individual map showing the location of the easement on their land.

“We expect to be in a position to publicly share a report detailing the full preferred easement

by late October, once we are confident that all impacted landholders have been given the opportunity to speak directly with their landholder liaison. We will also directly contact those within the draft corridor who are no longer directly impacted, and those with properties neighbouring the easement.

“Over the past year we have listened to feedback, and we understand that those who are most impacted – the people with property in the preferred easement –should have the time and space to process this news, prior to the broader public release of information.

“We understand that unfortunately this process and the associated uncertainty has caused concern. We also recognise that this is a major decision, and we needed to take time to listen and consider all the information available to us.”

TCV says a series of ecology investigations, identifying wildlife habitats and vegetation, will start this week and run through until December.

“Specialists will also be carrying out landscape and visual amenity surveys through to mid-October.

Youngsters beaver away on masterpieces

IT WAS art supplies galore on Monday for the first day of the CATCH-UP school holiday program, at Wedderburn Community House.

Kids were given a variety of tools to express their creativity from paints to pencils and stamps. Exploring different techniques and methods, there were fish and star shaped sponges, geometric shapes cut into potatoes, brushes of all shapes and sizes, all ready to be dunked into paint and transformed into works of art.

Running the class were local artist Barb Petrie and Trish Walls, who were thrilled with the creativity of their students.

“We’re pretty flexible with what materials the kids want to focus on using, we just want them to express their creativity,” said Trish, adding “Wedderburn is an inspiring place to be art wise”.

Monday’s participants used brushes, sponges and potato stamps to make their

masterpieces. Tuesday’s program featured a morning of Lego building, while yesterday was all about crafts and today will have a focus on mosaics.

Inglewood Community Bank has sponsored the school holiday program.

- RUBY HYLAND

Check the mail for your ballot pack

Ballot packs containing voting material will be mailed to enrolled voters from Monday 7 October

This is a postal election only.

If you do not receive your ballot pack by Tuesday 15 October please visit vec.vic.gov.au to complete the online replacement form, or call 131 832 to arrange a replacement.

Candidates

Candidates who have nominated for election are listed in the ballot packs and at vec.vic.gov.au

A photo and candidate statement will also be included if provided by candidates. Responses to a candidate questionnaire, if provided, are available at vec.vic.gov.au

How to vote correctly

You must complete your ballot paper correctly for your vote to count. Put the number 1 in the box next to the candidate you want to see elected, then number all the other boxes in order of your choice. You must number every box and only use each number once.

The surveys will provide greater detail in assessing landscape typology and character assessment to map and identify landscape character types and prominent features.

“These field investigations are taking place on public roadsides and will include non-invasive ground investigations such as site walkovers, photography, water sampling and vegetation mapping.”

And TCV wants new members for its VNI West community reference group.

Current members include Rachel Lloyd (Charlton), Vaughan Toose (Boort), Glenda Watts (Charlton), Glenden Watts, Yeungroon), Claire Grant, Glenloth) and Brett Hosking (Oakvale).

Meanwhile, Murray Plains MP Peter Walsh says landowners should not to rush into signing any agreements TCV.

“If you find your property in the final proposed corridor you will have options about the compensation you receive.

“Compensation should not just be a set period as proposed, but a payment for the life of the towers and the power lines,” Mr Walsh said.

900 turbines in pipeline

THE Victorian landscape could be dotted with another 900 wind turbines.

But the Coalition said the Government’s plans risked rural safety with its energy regulator without no records of internal fire suppression equipment having been installed in any of Victoria’s existing 1500 wind turbines.

Renewable energy company have started talks with landowners in the Boort district to build 180 turbines on farm land.

Shadow Minister for Emergency Services Richard Riordan said: “Regional fire safety should not be optional. The Allan Government is fast tracking the wind industry in regional Victoria but failing to ensure fire safety standards keep pace.

“While there have only been about three turbine fires in Victoria to date, the risk increases as ageing wind turbines degrade,” he said.

Mr Riodon also claimed that under-resourced CFA volunteers have been left in the dark on the greater fire risk to their local communities from turbines in high fire risk areas of country Victoria.

How to return your ballot pack

Put your completed ballot paper in the ballot paper envelope, complete the declaration, then post it ASAP using the reply-paid envelope provided, or hand deliver it during election office hours to:

37 Peppercorn Way Serpentine

Voting is compulsory

Voting is compulsory for all voters who were enrolled at 4 pm on Wednesday 7 August.

This includes state-enrolled and council-enrolled voters.

If you don’t vote and don’t have a valid excuse, you may be fined.

Your completed ballot pack must be in the mail or hand delivered by 6 pm Friday 25 October.

State-enrolled voters can register for free VoterAlert SMS and email reminders at vec.vic.gov.au

An election will be held for Loddon Shire Council.

Gerald Feeny

Three

days of artistic immersion

A WEEKEND of artistic immersion will unfold across the Loddon this weekend for the region’s second annual arts trail.

Pop-up exhibitions and studio open days will lead art fans to towns across the shire.

Organisers have expanded the creative experience with three new additions designed to give hands-on experience - a painting day in Pyramid Hill, a starters workshop in Boort and an introduction to a magical technique to create shadow art in Wedderburn.

Historian, playwright, and television writer Bill Garner will use the theme of this year’s trail, Seeing is Believing, for a talk at Wedderburn’s Coach House Gallery in Wedderburn on Saturday.

There’s also a free event at the Inglewood Eucalyptus Distillery Museum on Sunday with writer Sophie Cunningham and furniture-maker Damien Wright talking about eucalypts.

Tours of Inglewood’s historic mansion Nimmitabel are already heavily booked.

Acclaimed local artists Bill Offord, Barb Petrie, Kerry Punton, and Mal Gilmore are joined this

TRAVEL THE TRAIL THIS WEEKEND

year by new Trail participants, including Len Dierickx, David Milne and Robyn Holtham. In Tarnagulla, a big group exhibition at the Tarnagulla Hall will show the work of 16 artists, brought together by Arnold artist Mary-ann Scull.

In Boort, event newcomer Stuart Tweddle is turning the school’s art room into his studio for the weekend, as he works on one of his complex sculptures made from stuff he’s foraged from the tip.

In the Memorial Hall, Vietnam veteran Paul Haw will display photographs he took while serving in the army of the Vietnam-

ese people and the environment. and acrylic artist Kristen Cowland will run short “come and try” workshop. Also on display will be photographs of Boort in the 1950s and 1960s taken by Paul’s father Bill.

The exhibition will be officially opened by Boort Ward councillor-elect David Weaver.

Trail organiser Rosemary Sorensen says the arts trail had “a program that puts creativity front and centre”.

A community barbecue in Tarnagulla tomorrow night will official kick off the weekend of artistic celebrations.

Nature inspires Kerry’s tangents of creation

WORMS! Not the first thing to come to mind when thinking about art but for Kerry Punton, they have become a source of inspiration.

While Kerry has a penchant for featuring native flowers and birds in her paintings, inspired by the nature surrounding her studio, Kerry’s ceramic making has less of a theme.

Kerry says she “tends to go off on a tangent” of what she is interested in at the time.

Currently her interest is in worm towers.

Usually made from pvc pipes, Kerry has strayed from the norm and created beautiful towers out of clay with intricate designs.

She enjoys making these as her creativity can run free, and as a bonus, they help the environment as worm towers are method of composting.

In addition to creating art, Kerry also runs monthly workshops, pieces of which will be on display in her studio over the weekend, teaching ceramics skills. All workshops are for hand-built products, such as worm towers or pinch pots.

While she does run private lessons for people interested in using a pottery wheel, she is limited to only two wheels, making running a full class with the wheel

impractical and she prefers using the hand-building method overall.

In addition to her adult workshops, Kerry also teaches at schools and works with children. She thoroughly enjoys sharing her knowledge and interacting with different groups of people while teaching art.

Kerry will open her beautiful studio, located on a sheep and wheat farm in Eastville, to the public over the weekend, and will also have paintings on display at the Newbridge Hotel, both as a part of the Loddon Valley Arts Trail.

- RUBY HYLAND

Doing their own thing! Couple’s

secrets to smart snapping

ROBUST husband-wife discussions on photography techniques have produced contrasting prints put on display by Heidi and Greg Wane.

The couple’s Wedderburn Coach House Gallery exhibition opened last week, the first official event of this year’s Loddon Valley Arts Traill.

Greg, a former newspaper photographer and compositor in the Wimmera, is the traditionalist of the partnership.

His styles and techniques using a camera contrast with wife Heidi who says she is a recent convert to the hobby of photography, peripheral vision and the lens of a smart phone her gateway to snapping

shots. ”I’m fairly new to this ... I don’t follow the rules and I look for completely different subjects,” she said at the exhibition opening.

Greg and Heidi said their selected photographs came from a collection captured on cameras over five years.

“Because we take lots of photos, you have to look hard and pick the ones for an exhibition,” said Greg.

„ This weekend’s arts trail will also feature an exhibition at Inglewood’s Old Goods Shed - Faces of News - a selection of award-winning and other photographs from the pages of the Loddon Herald and other photos by editor Chris Earl.

Kerry Punton

Heide and Greg Wane at the launch of their exhibition. LH PHOTO

Paul Haw will exhibit photographs from his time in Vietnam

Elias heads towards birthday stardom

BOORT’S Elias Lanyon may be about to have the 21st birthday few country boys could ever dream of.

All he has to do is survive this weekend’s first round of knockouts on The Voice and his next appearance on the show will be October 20 – just three days before his birthday.

Sitting on the mower on the family farm this week, after his stunning success in his battle round against teammate Tia Barnes, Elias is still shaking his head about the whole experience.

He entered the singing competition back in 2023, and in December that year a film crew made the trip to Boort to get some shots of him on farm for potential use in the 2024 show –although he had still not received the official call.

“Fortunately it was harvest when they came, so there was plenty going on and plenty for them to film,” Elias says.

“But it was a little while later, this year, that I got the call to attend the blind auditions,” he adds.

To get that far, apart from his entry submission, which included two videos, Elias spent time in Melbourne at pre-auditions for the show’s producers.

And if nothing else, he has learnt very quickly the music business is very tough.

He says he has already made

some very strong connections with a lot of the other contestants, and one minute you are all celebrating together and the next minute it’s all tears as half of them are gone.

“It has been so cool meeting all these musos, I’ve now got a network of people around the country I could never have imagined, it’s unbelievable,” Elias says.

“Then, like we did on Sunday, you are up against your own team, and someone has to go –incredibly bittersweet,” he confesses.

“I know when all this is over I will keep up with a lot of these

people but in some ways it’s very hard on new friendships if you succeed and they don’t.”

In the knockout stage Elias will still go up against another mate from Team Miller-Heidke but they both get to do a complete song as part of that showdown – and there is no safety net of a save from here on in. You lose, you’re out.

Even if that happens, Elias says he wouldn’t change anything.

He reckons getting to meet and interact with the four judges, to see how a show like this is put together, to even have wardrobe fussing over how you dress, and to meet all the other wannabes has been something he could have never imagined.

But just to prove this country boy is human, he has recently had to cancel a couple of local gigs because he copped a dose of the flu and then laryngitis.

Hardly conducive to belting out a few tunes in the Boort pub, or any other pub for that matter.

His voice is still recovering now and sounds even raspier on the phone than his earthy delivery of Sting’s Fields of Gold last Sunday.

Although it doesn’t matter right now. The only stage Elias is likely to have for singing in the next few weeks and months will be on the mower and then the header.

Brass plaque ripped from rock

GUIDO Assmann has sent out requests hoping to raise $1900 to replace a historic plaque was stolen at Mologa.

The large brass plaque showing where businesses, churches and the school had once been in the town was fixed to a large rock on the railway reserve since back-to celebrations in 1997.

But Guido and wife Christl saw it had been removed when returning home from Echuca.

“We searched the area and it was nowhere to be found,” said Guido, a member of the Mologa Landcare Group who regularly mows the railway reserve and nearby war memorial.

He also contacted Max Gamble, secretary of the 1997 backto committee and one of only two members from the group still alive.

“Until now, this plaque and memorial has been respected. It’s disappointing someone decided to take the plaque,” Max said.

Guido said he had contacted the original maker of the plaque. “They’ve quoted me $1950 to remake the plaque and offered to install it for us at no charge,” he said.

Guido said he had approached several possible donors. “We want to see the plaque replaced back honouring local history.”

This October, Mental Health Month, Beyond Blue is inviting you to ght the stigma of mental health one meal at a time. Whether hosting a pot-luck lunch at home, decking your o ce out in blue, or having a picnic in the park, share a meal this October, and potentially start meaningful or even life-saving conversations while also helping raise funds and awareness for those who are struggling with mental health. Receive a free host kit with conversation starters, decorations, and more to help you host a Big Blue Table. Register now at https://bigbluetable.com.au/

The latest edition of the Loddon Bulletin is available to view online.

To view this edition and all previous editions, scan the QR code.

Christl Assmann, Guido Assman and Max Gamble hope to replace the stolen plaque at Mologa. LH PHGOTO

Elias Lanyon

WOOL REPORT

The Australian wool market has recorded another overall loss last week, influenced by falls in the merino fleece sector. The national quantity was again relatively small, with 31,062 bales available to the trade nationally In the merino fleece the reductions in the individual Micron Price Guides (MPGs) ranged between 4 and 40 cents. The benchmark AWEX Eastern Market Indicator (EMI) dropped by just 2 cents on the first selling day and then 9 cents on the second, these small movements marked nine consecutive selling days where the EMI has had only a single digit movement. The EMI closed the week 11 cents lower at 1,087 cents. The EMI now sits just one cent above the season low. In an all too familiar pattern, again due to currency fluctuations, when viewed in US dollar terms the market rose. The EMI added 6 US cents for the series, closing at 749 US cents. The stagnant nature of the market can best be shown by looking at the movements in the EMI since the beginning of the calendar year. The EMI started 2024 at 1,212 cents, 125 cents lower than its current level, a drop of 10.3%. Calendar year to date there have been 74 selling days, across these sales the EMI has posted 59 single digit movements (plus or minus 9 cents or less) and of these 59 days, 48 times the movement in the EMI has been 5 cents or less. The average daily movement of the EMI (both positive and negative results) for the calendar year is just 5.9 cents. Despite the flat market, clearance rates have continued to be relatively high. This series the passed in rate was 8.9%. The season to date passed in rate is currently 8.8%.

This week’s offering is expected to increase. There are currently 33,949 bales on offer in Sydney, Melbourne and Fremantle.

Source: AWEX

Branch Manager & Senior Agronomist

Craig Sharam 0408 188 351

Wool - Adam Millard 0400 499 064

Livestock - Nigel Starick 0408 528 322

Wade Broadstock 0427 337 231

Lachie McAlister 0428 717 403

Chris Anderson 0408 921 540

Merchandise - Glenn Jackson 0429 076 459

Agronomy - Anton Mannes 0499 708 044

Josh Mcleod 0447 678 609

SHEEP AND LAMBS

THE market was firm to dearer across all lamb and sheep categories at Bendigo on Monday,

It came as quality improved across a smaller yarding of 13,880 lambs, with the new season stock handling better and showing more carcass finish and freshness compared to a week ago. Keen demand from a major domestic processor plus one southern exporter led the market into dearer territory, and some other buyers weren’t able to fill orders as the good quality young lambs trended above 800c/kg cwt.

The other notable element of the sale was increasing store demand which boosted rates for lighter weight stock under 20kg cwt, some pens of young lambs to the paddock quoted as up to $15 dearer than a week ago.

Agents from Ballarat, Albury, Yarrawonga and the local north-east area were active on suitable light lambs. All agents are now leading their runs with young lambs and prices reached a top of $270 for a small pen of export weights estimated at 32kg cwt.

The next best price was $256 and then $245/ head. Most of the lead young lambs in a range of 24-28kg cwt made from $200 to $240/ head, to average between 800c to 820c/kg after some pens pushed into the high 800c/ kg price territory. Once off the lead laneways there was more price play in the medium trades around 21-24kg cwt which sold from $160 to $190/head and these categories averaged between 760c to 800c/kg cwt.

Putting a good floor in the market for lighter weight lambs was restockers, with bigger framed store lambs in the 18-20kg cwt range from $140 to $158/head followed by $70 to $130/head for small lambs to the paddock.

Any well presented old season lambs were dearer at a ballpark cost of 760c to 800c/kg cwt, or $180 to $245/head for the better pens. Lesser rates were paid for rough clean-up

Bendigo Sheep & Lamb Market Report

lots. In the sheep run good mutton consistently made from 300c to 370c/kg cwt. Heaviest crossbred ewes $90 to $113/head; heavy Merino wethers to $117 and ewes to $109. The majority of sheep sold from $50 to $90/head.

SUCKERS

F & R Shea Campbells Forest (21) $256. P & B Meighan Mitiamo (33) $247. RJ & DM Johnston Boort (42) $240. B & M Marlow Wanalta (84) $240. Lislea Lodge Shepparton (102) $240. N & M Miller Boort (52) $240. A. Amor Barham (58) $239. D Francis Echuca (92) $238. B & T Phillips Mitiamo (73) $230. AL & GJ Lloyd Stuart Mill (52) $228. LJ & PM Cooper Emu

A grand day for all ages

TRADITION, fun and family attractions will bring thousands to the 136th running of the Boort Show this month.

The shire’s only agricultural show will have activities for all ages with show society president Madeleine Scott saying:

“It’s going to be a grand day for our community, the district and the whole shire.”

Mrs Scott says the show again celebrates the district’s rich agricultural heritage infused with contemporary showcasing of rural and country life.

“The Boort Show offers something for every member of the family from the tiny tots’ fashion show to the over 70s needlework exhibit category,” she said.

“Dodgem cars are back for this year along with bungee trampoline, Red Baron airplane ride and sky flyer, providing hours of entertainment for the family.”

Mrs Scott said a new show feature in 2024, a ute show and shine, was the

brainchild of local young men, the latest generation to step up and contribute to the running of the show.

“We’ve seen the wonderful growth of the truck show and now the locals and their utes are going to be part of the show day action,” she said.

“This says a lot about how the show brings people and communities together.

“And it is that support, where from exhibitors, our amazing sponsors and the tremendous work of every volunteer on the committee and on the day that makes the Boort Show so special.”

Mrs Scott says teamwork and pride in community has helped shape another exciting program of events and activities for the 2024 show.

“And the best thing will be seeing smiles on the faces of people of all ages as they soak up the atmosphere on show day. That’s what our show is about!”

Showcase on fun and involvement

FOR more than a century, people from across the Loddon Shire have been showcasing their farm produce and handiwork at the Boort Show.

A love of the land and commitment to the community passed from one generation to the next.

For some, the Boort Show is much more than entering some of the pavilion sections.

Sandra Poyner is one who takes on multiple roles before show day and as thousands of people flock through the gates of Boort Park.

There’s the pavilion sections where Sandra is a regular on the list of entries for flowers.

Last year, she had success in winning the eye of judges and is hoping her garden may again be growing ribbon-winning entries.

But with the challenge out for all to take on the reigning champions in the pavilion exhibition, it could be a different story in 2024.

The pavilion will showcase entries across 15 categories, with a range of sewing, knitting, baking, photography and gardening exhibits.

After winning the overall award last year with her hedgehog cake, as well as multiple awards within the category, most outstanding cookery exhibitor Tanya Buchanan will return this year to defend her title.

During last year’s show Sandra, Lynette Clark, Emma Moon and

Margaret Allison walked away with most outstanding exhibit awards in the flowers category among many other awards.

Sandra will be throwing her hat in the ring again this year to add to her growing collection of rosettes, with plans to enter exhibits into the flowers and antique categories.

She encourages anyone who has been considering entering an exhibit into the show to do so, as the more people involved the better the the show becomes..

Expressing words and support

Boort Amity Club will once again sponsor the Boort Show creative writing competition, one of many local businesses and organisations backing the show.

Sandra is one of the Amity members behind the competition with a theme this year of Precious to Me.

Open to children from foundation to year nine, students are bein asked to express their creativity and share their thoughts and feelings on what is precious to them.

Winners from the previous year include Emma Sutton, Keira Henderson, Hannah Talbot, Emily Henderson and Emma Malone.

The service club is a big supporter of the show with current

FROM handcrafts to cookery, photography, art and farm and garden produce, the pavilion at Boort Park will be packed with exhibits on show day.

Entries have already started coming online and from Tuesday, the show office will be open in the former Boort Veterinary Services building in Godfrey Street to receive entries. Entries, in the running for some of the best prizemoney at agricultural shows in central and northern Victoria, can be taken to the showgrounds on Friday October 11 or on the morning before judging is scheduled to commence. Online entries and enquiries to boortshow@gmail.com

president Maree Stringer on the committee and many members volunteering their time to assist in setting up the show and ensuring it runs smoothly.

In addition to volunteering, many members also find time to enter a variety of items across many categories into the pavilion exhibition.

Expressing words and support

Shearers will take to the boards for honours in the show’s competition offering $8000 in prizemoney.

The shearing competition is one of the traditional rural showcase events celebrated at the Boort Show.

Furry farm friends will have the chance to show off their talents before their human counterparts, with the yard dog trials, starting at 7.30am before the shearing competition commences at 10am.

Later in the afternoon, begin-

ning at 4pm, is the dog jumping contest, separated into small dogs and large dogs, providing another chance to take home a prize.

Equestrian events will feature heavily throughout the show.

With a wide range of arena events for horses and ponies to participate in and a selection of trophies and awards to win, patrons will be saddling up and chomping at the bit to get involved.

Your show day guide

7:30am

Yard Dog Trials

8:30am Pavilion open for exhibitors

9:00am Ponies and Saddle Horses

9:30am All exhibits to be pavilion

10:00am Pavilion judging begins

Shearing Registration

Boort Teenager Registration

12:00pm Show Ambassador Registration

Fireworks will light up night sky

From baked potatoes to American-style barbeque, the Boort Show has you covered with a huge range of food options all day and into the night. Delicious desserts will also be on offer as well as a licensed bar, and so much more. Enjoy the wide selection of fresh food while watching the fireworks display, scheduled to start once the sun goes down.

1:00pm Official Welcome Pavilion opens

1:30pm Show Stars Judging

3:00pm Truck Presentations

4:00pm Dog Jumping

5:00pm Evening program starts

7:00pm Pavilion closes

Dusk Fireworks Display

Sandra Poyner ... a supporter and volunteer for the annual show

Young take shine to showing their utes

THE community spirit of Boort and its annual show will come shining through when the younger generation proudly drive their utes into Boort Park.

Utes used as farm workhorses, by tradies travelling from one job to the next and doubling as weekend pleasure chariots will be on display for the show’s first ute show and shine.

Show society president Madeleine Scott says it’s another sign of the increased involvement of young people in the show.

“The involvement of the local young people in the show has risen this year, with many stepping up to volunteer with organising and assisting in running the program,” she said.

“When a group of young men came to us with the idea of having a special section for their utes, we welcomed them with open arms.

“The show is about reflecting the rural endeavours of our districts, utes play such an important role on farms and around town ... the idea was quickly included in the show schedule.”

Kobie Streader, Jett Hird and and Madeleine’s son Nick are among the younger generation driving the ute show and shine.

Encouraging other Loddon people to join the new show feature is the offer of free entry for each vehicle’s driver.

Registration of utes will open at 10am on show day, Saturday October 12, with the prizes vehicles to be in place by midday for judging in categories of best farm rig, vintage, best on show and people’s choice.

“The event has been organised by a group of young men local to Boort, with the hope of it becoming a staple in the Boort Show,” Madeleine said.

Show organisers tip that the ute show and shine was further grow the event’s popularity across the generations.

The Boort Truck Show will once again be a feature at the show with people travelling from various parts of southern Australia to show off their big rigs.

Over the past few years, the Boort Truck Show has made a big impact and become a prominent feature on the truck circuit.

Trucks that traverse highways and roads across Australia deliverying farm produce, freight and supplies will be buffed bright for their display in Boort.

Many of these mobile works of art will be instant conversation starters as show patrons wander the rows of an estimated 100-trucks, stopping to chat with owners and discover the stories behind selection of livery colours and artistic expression.

Heath Saunders’ passion for truck signage has brought even more people to Boort for the annual show since the truck

events were first held three years ago.

The Boort businessman is a traditional hand-painted truck signage specialist and his work adorns rigs in big freight company fleets to custom work for ownerdrivers.

“We do the lot and with over 20 years

experience we can set out a truck from others in the crowd,” he said.

The Boort Show will also have displays of historic vehicles and agricultural equipment and stalls selling decals and other ephemera celebrating the trusted farm ute and big trucks on the road.

Kobie Streader, Jett Hird and Nick Scott ... putting their utes on show

Frost bites wheat yield

LATE spring frosts in the Loddon have hit crops with at least one farmer turning 250 acres of wheat into baled hay.

Oakvale’s Brett Hosking said the mid-September heavy frost, coming after weeks of lighter morning ice covering, had done the damage.

“It was zero degrees that Monday at 4.30am and was still zero two hours later,” he said.

“We’ve have to turn around 250 acres of a wheat crop into baling hay.”

Mr Hosking said there had been little frost damage to his lentil crop but expects the yield to be down 10 per cent.

“There’s been damage across the Wimmera and Mallee and it came just in that window. You can see the damage in some areas,” he said.

He said the combination of a dry winter and dry air had made the region more frost prone.

“We are lucky really considering the dry finish we have had this spring,” Mr Hosking said.

“The early season rain put us in a reasonably good position.”

Farmers across the region are still hoping for spring rains as some crops struggle in dryer conditions.

Rainfall last Sunday was patchy in Loddon districts with up to 10mm recorded around Boort while southern areas received between 4mm and 6mm.

Agriculture Victoria has reported another drier month in the north of the state has seen crops and pastures using up available soil moisture. In the south, frequent low rainfall events are yet to lead to runoff in the southwest.

Its latest report says: “Outlook model predictions for increased chances of wetter (months) are yet to come to fruition. Most models still predicting increased chance of wetter (weather) in future, but our confidence is low based on recent performance.

“Progress towards a La Niña still very slow. Oceans (are) warmer to the north of Australia, but connections to tropical moisture are hampered by unhelpful pressure positioning.” Warmer temperatures are predicted for the next three months.

DERBY Downs stud has taken out most successful poll Dorset ram and poll Dorset exhibitor at the Royal Melbourne Show. The stud’s Don McKinnon said the weekend result was “a fantastic way to close out our show season” after earlier collecting major awards at Hamilton Sheepvention and ribbons at the Australian Sheep and Wool Show. „ Angus Fraser, who has previously worked on Ben Govett’s brown Swiss dairy farm at Tandarra, was runner-up in the national young judging dairy cattle competition at the show assessing cattle on their form and characteristics.

“THE COMPLETE PACKAGE” 699 Tandarra Serpentine

Rd, TANDARRA

Opportunity to purchase an established mixed farming property, currently used for cropping, fodder and livestock.

Offering 170.6 Hectares/ 421.53 Acres of fertile Tandarra loam soil. 6 paddocks plus 3 containment paddocks. 40kms North of Bendigo, 8km South of East Loddon P-12 College

Extensive improvements including: Brick Veneer home4 bedrooms, master with large walk- in robe and ensuite; Light filled, large open living areas with polished floor boards throughout.; Large modern kitchen with stone benchtops and 900mm oven; Separate home office/ parents retreat; -Covered outdoor entertaining area overlooking well established gardens; -Ducted electric heating/ cooling throughout with addition of a solid fuel fireplace; -6.4 watt solar system with additional solar hot water system

Extensive shedding includes: 32m x 20m machinery shed; 8m x 11m workshop with pit; 15m x 28m hay shed; Shearing shed/ machinery shed/ grain shed with 2 stand raised board (12m X 13m cement; floor. Power supplied by 15kva single/ 3 phase diesel generator; Steel sheep yards/ adjustable loading ramp. 2 X 10,000 Ltr tanks; -9 grain silos (600+ tonne)

Ample rainwater catchment- 60,000 Ltr tanks at house/sheds, 80,000 Ltr tank set up for spraying. -Water supplied by S/D bore to garden and paddocks- troughs in all paddocks E.O.I Opens 7/09/2024. E.O.I Closes 10/10/2024 at 4pm at

Relaxtion in Golden Triangle

92 Clay Gully Lane, McIntyre 3 Bedrooms 1 Bathroom 17.36 hectares

Agent: James Nevins 0407 302 900

SET in the middle of the Golden Triangle is this home on 17.36 hectares at McIntyre.

With frontages to two roads, this is a wonderful rural lifestyle property with a lovely rural farm setting and open grazing and raised timber on O’Brien’s Drive

The house has off-grid to battery storage and generator.

The three-bedroom HardiPlank home in excellent condition with extensive ve-

randah. There is an open plan kitchen/ dining/living area, polished floorboards throughout along with gas cooking and free standing solid fuel heating. There are ceiling fans throughout.

The bathroom offers shower, bath, vanity and toilet, a second external toilet also available.

The laundry, which is spacious. has instant gas hot water and three dams.

Also on the property are a Zinc aluminium single car garage, garden shed and outdoor undercover entertainment meal area, all set amongst the fabulous pines facing Clay Gully Lane.

With stunning views of bushland creating an inviting vista for relaxation, this McIntyre property is a lifestyle ultimate in the middle of the Golden Triangle.

marble surround

 Bathroom’s X 2 & Laundry

 Modernised kitchen with walk in pantry

 Polished floorboards & carpet floorcoverings

Shedding:

 2019 Colourbond 3 bay shed, 1 bay built in with lock up workshop

 24.5m X 15.4m X 5m full concrete, power Connected.

 Machinery shed, 10.3m X 13.8m, corrugated Iron

 Weatherboard meat house 3.1m X 2.5m on concrete floor

Shearing Shed:

 3 stand shearing with raised board

 All Gal Iron & Steel construction

 22.1m X 11m, concrete flooring & power connected

 Extensive steel sheep/ drafting yards

Silos:

 8 X Jaeschke 61 Ton silos

 1 X Nelson 45 Ton Silo

Lot 2 – “Russ’s”

 347.83 Hectares or 859.49 Acres in 6 Titles, all dry land

 7 Paddocks, 7 Dams

 Quality Fernihurst/ Kinypaniel red/ grey loams

 Excellent fencing

 Boundary to “Longview” block

Lot 3 – “Lewis’s”

 130.73 Hectares or 323.05 Acres, 1 title

 70 Acres lasered irrigation, 200 Acres waterable, 53 Acres dry

 4 Paddocks, 3 Dams

 Quality Fernihurst/ Kinypaniel Red/ Grey loams

 Adjacent to “Russ’s”

Lot 4 – “George Frank’s”

 95.43 Hectares or 235.81 Acres, 1 Title, all dry land

 2 Paddocks, 2 Dams

 Quality Fernihurst/ Kinypaniel Red/ Grey loams

Agents Remarks:

Seldom does a prestigious property like “Longview” present for sale, especially in the tightly held area of Fernihurst.

Owned by the Coutts family for 152 years, this magnificent property represents a

significant opportunity to acquire a large parcel of land, operating a successful sheep & wool enterprise. With first rate infrastructure, excellent fencing with laneways through lot 1 for seamless transition of both livestock & machinery. The whole property is subscribed to the Warranga dam fill system for water security. What an opportunity to either add to your existing holdings or to set down your roots to your new adventure. This property comes with our highest recommendations.

Terms: 10% deposit on signing, balance in 90 days.

Rural lifestyle in the Golden Triangle

Lane, Lockwood

FEATURES | OPINION AND QUIZ

Speedy loss of knowledge

By CHRIS EARL

THE centralisation of government services and agencies has certainly had a negative impact on rural communities over the last 50 or so years.

There’s the local social capital that has been stripped from many towns and transplanted in the Melbourne, or if we are lucky, one of the regional capitals.

Local knowledge and the capacity to deal with issues on the ground replaced by guidelines, frameworks and matrix that are overlayed when making decisions from afar.

Last week we read about a truck driver who had beaten down, according to a media report, the consequences of alleged detection speeding down a Loddon main street.

Wedderburn, it was reported as the town, where the offence allegedly occurred in February56kmh in a 40kmh zone.

It was reported that the court heard the speed limit had changed just two weeks earlier. There was also mention of the prosecutor supposedly saying that was “a big drop from the 100 zone to a 40 zone”.

Now in days of old, when courts sat in rural communities, the presiding magistrate would likely have been in a position

Role of modern councillor

Sir, I refer to your article “ Satisfaction decline action put to ward candidates” (Loddon Herald September 26).

One of the key factors that needs to be highlighted regarding the decline in satisfaction of Loddon residents (particularly in the southern wards) is the diminishing impact individual councillors can have when faced with the increased control and spread of state legislation and control of the purse strings in rural shires. This is why the ability of any councillor to operate in the broader state and federal arena is becoming a critical skill. Experience in being able to advocate and negotiate in those spaces, together with a clear capability to read both legislation and policy will be the requirements that will ultimately lead to increased satisfaction of the shire residents.

MikiWilson CandidateforInglewoodWard

to question such claims. Local knowledge, garnered even from a few hours in town each week, fortnight or month, would probably have equipped the man (in those days all magistrates were men) with the knowledge that the 40kmh speed zone was introduced in Wedderburn at the end of November (two months plus, not weeks before the alleged incident).

And then the sudden drop? Actually not, travelling south on the Calder Highway through Wedderburn, there is an 80kmh zone for about 1km and then 60kmh for a similar distance before hitting the new 40kmh zone.

Whether in Wedderburn or Inglewood, where the speed limit was finally dropped at the end of January, some locals are still questioning the speed of some vehicles scooting through the centre of the towns.

In the columns of this newspaper, it is indeed rare that we mention court cases. The reason is quite simple: if we are not present in the court room, a place for legal considerations and judgements - we cannot truly report on cases and the evidence presented to the magistrate.

On this occasion, observations

are based a media report that does not match the reality of local experience and knowledge.

Perhaps signage of the 40kmh zones does need to be improved. Inglewood Development and Tourism president Peter Moore remains firm in his belief that speed check signs should be in place along Brooke Street.

These “reminder” flashing signs serve a useful purpose in other states. Why, in parts of Britain there are prominent signs as you enter villages advising of the speed limit and that offenders will have their photograph taken and a fine issued.

Our local communities have campaigned for safer main streets. The signs were erected but sadly the high level of acting responsibly remains to be fully matched by some who traverse through our towns.

Local knowledge was behind the push for lower speed limits. The loss of local courts over the decades has deprived our towns being backed up by magistrates who know the area and can question assertions and claims put before a court in a city removed from the reality of life in many rural towns across country Victoria.

Sharing goals of providing best possible healthcare

By jACINtA ERMACORA

I’M proud of the Allan Labor Government’s commitment to health services in regional communities.

Last month the Minister for Health Mary-Anne Thomas visited Ripon to tour all of the great hospitals in the electorate. She visited the soon-to-be completed Maryborough Hospital, Inglewood District Health Service, East Wimmera Health Service (St Arnaud campus) and East Grampians Health Service (Ararat).

The Minister had the opportunity to speak with staff, patients and board members, and was impressed by the level of care delivered at each campus.

These visits are an essential part of making sure that the Government understands the challenges and successes of regional and rural healthcare systems firsthand, helping to make sure that everybody has access to

high-quality healthcare, no matter where they live.

Every hospital, though unique, shares a common goal: to provide the best possible care to our community.

This is what the new Local Health Service Networks will provide. Each of these hospitals can connect with nearby services to provide more seamless care, while retaining the outstanding local leadership.

The Allan Labor Government is committed to providing worldclass healthcare.

That’s why we’ve committed an additional $1.5 billion investment for our hospitals, building on the $8.8 billion already being invested. That will enable our hospitals to deliver a projected 210,000 surgeries, increasing the record levels set last year as part of the COVID catch-up plan.

JacintaErmacoraisthe memberforWesternVictoria Region

20 QUESTION QUIZ

1. What is the most abundant gas in Earth’s atmosphere?

2. Count Olaf is a character in which book series?

3. The River Ganges is sacred according to which religion?

4. New York City is often called ‘The Big Apple’, what other one word name does it have?

5. Michelangelo painted the ceiling of which European church?

6. The ‘little black dress’ was created by which fashion designer in the 1920s?

7. Who wrote the song for the James Bond movie ‘Skyfall’?

8. “All stops out” is a phrase commonly associated with which musical instrument?

9. What was the name of Disney’s first film?

10. The Mariana Trench is the deepest point on Earth,

how deep is it at its lowest point?

11. The green pheasant is the National animal of which country?

12. Which human organ is the largest?

13. What name is given to the broad group of trees that grow cones?

14. The music genre K-pop originated in which country?

15. Which is the only US state that is an island?

16. Dino is the pet of which cartoon family?

17. In the nursery rhyme, the old lady swallows a fly. What does she swallow to catch the fly?

18. How many inches are in a foot?

19. A four leaf what is considered to be lucky?

20. Farrokh Bulsara is the real name of which wellknown singer?

ANSWERS

WE THINK Bradley of Boort jumped the gun! One of his recent signs was all about wheelbarrows and well, there were plenty up Wycheproof way at the weekend of King of the Mountain, some successfully navigating the course while other, to put it politely, not so.

THERE was a team of chaps from Bridgewater way who classified themselves as finishing a dignified last in the bloke’s push. May have had something to do with the coaching crew. The Oracle and the Mangalator gave lots of strategic advice to the barrow quartet.

THE Cockerell, watching the race on live stream,

said The Oracle had obviously used Mount Wycheproof as his umpire training circuit while the nearby Laird had a sting in his retort. “If The Oracles gets anywhere near the top of the mountain while the sun shines ...”

I T WAS great to see so many from our patch just over the border at Wyche. While there were some very serious competitors, the couple of dapper chaps taking a pedestrian pace with bag on shoulder surely took the cake for involvement.

B ACK to The Oracle to finish this week. He’s already talking up the fortunes of a certain bowls team. Let’s hope his season predictions are better than some of the footy tips.

1. Nitrogen 2. A Series of Unfortunate Events 3. Hinduism 4. Gotham 5.

Sistene Chapel, Rome 6. Coco Chanel 7. Adele 8. Pipe organ 9. Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs 10. Approx 11km 11. Japan 12. Skin 13. Conifers 14.

South Korea 15. Hawaii 16. The Flinstone family 17. A spider 18. Twelve 19.

Clover 20. Freddie Mercury.

Spinning new yarns

SPIDERMAN, the superhero alter ego of Peter Parker, has been fighting crime since 1962.

His superhuman strength and agility weaving webs across New York has outfox dastardly crooks in hundreds of comics penned and illustrated by artists with compelling imagination

But even one of the world’s upper echelon of crimefighters needs a break. And where better that in Australia, lapping up a lifestyle far removed from the bustle of big city America.

As the latest in a line Spiderman writers started for Marvel Comics by Stan Lee more than 60 years ago, Zeb Wells did just that.

He arrived at the Jarklin pub on Friday in time to truly experience the parochialism of AFL grand final weekend.

Time for a battery recharge after completing his final Spiderman assignment and three years “working harder than I ever had”.

Destination Jarklin wasn’t exactly a case of throwing a dart and seeing where it landed on the map.

“I knew Zeb before he was famous,” said hotel owner Heide Polkinghorne of the American comic book writer, screenwriter, director, and voice actor.

By CHRIS EARL

“We are old friends,” piped back Zeb in between autographing comics and videos for fans who had been tipped off that Wells would be in the district.

“I first met the Chisletts (Heide’s maiden name) through the Capernwray Bible School in Moss Vale, Sydney, back in 19961997,” he said.

“I came here to visit their farm and fell in love with the place. That was back in 1999 and I’ve finally made it back.

“I’d been just so busy that it’s taken this long. I find it hard to believe that it is ... but it’s the place to recharge the batteries.”

Apart from writing the latest chronicles of Spiderman, Wells has been co-writing the Deadpool series of comics and this year’s Deadpool and the Wolverine movie.

The Marvel smash starring Ryan Reynolds and Hugh Jackman crushed its box office projections, grossing $438.3 million to record the eighth-highest opening weekend haul in movie history.

Wells recently told American reporters that he gets a kick out of watching his jokes being performed on the big screen, especially by Reynolds.

“I know that if he said them, he thought

they were funny,” Wells has said. “He can rewrite anything he wants, because he’s hilarious. He knows exactly what the character would say. It’s great to feel like I nailed the Deadpool voice.”

Deadpool is another Marvel creation. Deadpool is initially depicted as a supervillain of the New Mutants and X-Force, though later stories potray him as an antihero. Deadpool is the alter ego of Wade Wilson, a disfigured Canadian mercenary with superhuman regenerative healing abilities. He is known for his tendency to joke incessantly and break the fourth wall for humorous effect.

Wells says there are more projects in the wings. “Lots of balls in the air, a few possible deals, nothing I can talk about.”

But back to Spiderman. The writer grew up in Littleton, Colorado, a fan of Peter Parker’s exploits.

“Writing the Spiderman stories now, I hope I have added some comedy and maybe a little bit of emotion (to the character), Wells said.

“Hopefully my love for the character shines through.”

And then it’s back talking movies. Wells wants a break from comic book writing - the Marvel series of Spiderman meant having two new stories every month.

He then starts talking more about farm life. “My great-grandfather had a farm in Kansas and that’s why I’ve got an empathy for farms and farmers,” Wells said.

“I’m only here in Australia for two weeks. I instantly felt stupid only coming for this long.

“I’ll be back though, probably next summer and who knows, I might even retire here.”

In the meantime, Wells’ words continue to be read around the world. There are thousands of fans in clubs, members probably able to instantly recognise themes from any of the 788 issues since the first release of the comic.

Marvel calls Spiderman the friendly neighbourhood wall-crawler. Wells had the air of a long-lost friend when he stayed in Jarklin last weekend.

It was a world away for the Emmy and Annie Award-winning writer and actor for the TV show Robot Chicken and director of that shows sixth and seventh seasons.

And certainly a nice break after three years penning Spiderman stories and other comics.

Yet it was rural and relaxed ... something Heide Polkinghorne says should have Wells back in Australia sooner and longer to be caught in the Aussie web of fun.

Adrian Polkinghorne, Ash Warby, Heidi Polinghorne, Zeb Wells and Lilly Hocking in Jarklin last Friday. LH PHOTO

Zeb Wells makes time for fans on his Australia visit including Deri Singleton, Waylan Monaghan and Lyn Singleton (centre) and Cameron Bell (right). LH PHOTOS

BOORT

BRIDGEWATER

BRIDGEWATER

BRIDGEWATER NURSERY

BRIDGEWATER

BRIDGEWATER

DINGEE

FOUR

INGLEWOOD

INGLEWOOD

STEVE’S

INGLEWOOD

KANGAROO

VICTORIA

Mary Herrick

Wishing you the loveliest of days for your special day on 5th October With love from all the family

The Club has activities planned from 1pm on the second Friday of each month in the supper room at the Memorial Hall. On the fourth Friday of each month, a light meal will be available costing $10 -00. Again in the supper room at the Memorial Hall. You are welcome to pop in even if you would prefer just a cup of tea/coffee and a chat. There is no pressure to participate in the available activities.

Membership fee is $5-00 annually.

The above will be in place until the Club moves to the new building currently being constructed in McKay St. Terry Wood email tp.wood@bigpond.com Ph 0429843479

North Central Garden Club presents CHARLTON OPEN GARDENS 2024

Saturday October 12 e six garden open this year will all have the various layout and design .

Registration and a ernoon tea at the Uniting Church Hall, Halliday St, near the Fire Station . Entry to all 6 gardens just $15 .

Enquires:

Lynne McRae 0408 113 104

Charlton Art & Photography Exhibition

Opening night Friday 11th October at 7.30pm at Charlton Hall. Entry is $30 and that gets you in all weekend. Or $6 on Saturday and Sunday. Lots of entries and demonstrators.

WOODSTOCK PUBLIC PURPOSES RESERVE

Notice is given of a Public Meeting to be held at Woodstock on Loddon Hall, 1240 Newbridge Road, Woodstock on Loddon on 10th October, 2024 at 7.00pm.

The purpose of the meeting is to nominate no less than three (3) or more than (9) persons as the Committee of Management for the Woodstock Public Purposes Reserve for a term of 3 years. The current Committee’s term will expire on 30th November, 2024. All positions will be declared open and nominations will be accepted prior to or on the night. Nominations from women, Aboriginal people, people with disabilities, young people and people from culturally diverse backgrounds are encouraged. Further information, nomination forms and nominee declaration forms may be obtained by contacting your local Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action office or at the meeting. For further enquiries please contact the Secretary, Irene Punton on 03 54353240

Annual General Meeting

Date: Wednesday 23rd October

Time: 5.30pm

Location: 24 Karat Café

All members of our Community are invited & encouraged to attend; as all executive &committee positions will vacated for re-election. We look forward to seeing you there.

Any questions, please contact Wedderburn Development Association, Secretary (Kylie Turnbull) wdainc1@gmail.com.

Southern Loddon Tourism Inc

Annual General meeting

Wednesday 30th October 7pm

Newbridge Hotel Dining Room

Items on the agenda include:

- Activity Report

- Review of the previous AGM

- Financial Report

- Election of members

Rheola Charity Carnival

The Annual General Meeting will be held on Sunday 6th October 2024 at Rheola Reserve Hall starting at 10am.

A general meeting will also be held. All are welcome

Sharp picks up top award

THE MEAN Machine’s goal machine Lachlan Sharp has won Bridgewater’s best and fairest award for 2024.

Sharp, who finished his first season in the Loddon Valley league with 138 goals, took out the award ahead of midfielder Jack Neylon.

Jack McKinley was reserves best and Sam McMahon won the Under 18 award.

Mitiamo’s new senior coach Luke Lougoon won the Superoos’ best and fairest trophy ahead of Zack Morrison. Dave Cini was named reserves trophy winner. At Inglewood, Mitch Conlon took out the main prize ahead of Will Allen. Jack Lovett won the reserves award.

Ed Crisp was named Maiden Gully’s best ahead of Declan Phyland. The reserves award went to Hayden Devanney.

90th B ir th DAY

Lachlan Sharp

Luke Lougoon

Wyche wind beater

MAINTAINING a steady pace into the Wycheproof head wind late Saturday morning has seen Carly Isaac win her second Queen of the Mountain title.

Isaac, the Boort netballer and marathon runner, stuck to her race plan tackling the 1km race up the world’s smallest mountain.

Bree Garreffa had a four-second edge over the defending champion for the first 250 metres but Isaac’s sure style carrying the 20kg bag of wheat and wool took over soon after.

Isaac would stay in the lead and finish the course in 5:24, 26

seconds ahead of her challenger.

The $5000 Queen of the Mountain victory came less than an hour after Isaac broke clear of Sarah Botheras going up Mount Street to win the dash in 3:55 by a margin of 36 seconds. It was also back-to-back success for Isaac in that event.

Back at the base of Mount Wycheproof after the top title race, Isaac said: “I was trying to tuck in out of the wind on the first stretch and didn’t change pace.

“When I hit the bottom of the hill there was momentum, the

cheer squad ... there was not going to be any walking to the top of the hill.”

The cheer squad included fellow Boort netballers who had earlier competed in the wheelbarrow dash.

The Pies were forced to make late changes to their barrow relay quartet trying to defend the 2023 title.

Isabel Hosking and Colbinabbin netballer Olivia McEvoy joined Isaac and Georgia Haw.

But this year, the Pies were beaten on the final gruelling leg of the race.

Teams with runners from Bridgewater and Inglewood also tried their luck in the wheelbarrow races for men and women.

The King of the Mountain was won by Tom Rodgers in 5:56. The men carried a 60kg bag.

Organised by Wycheproof Narraport Football Netball Club, King of the Mountain was revived last year after a break of 35 years.

Hundreds lined the 1km route again on Saturday before a community picnic in Centenary Park and the formal coronation of this year’s King and Queen of the Mountain.

RESULTS

Women’s dash: Carly Isaac 3:55, Sarah Botheras 4:31, Tessa Coles 4:52, Suzuka Kinho 4:54, Ella Sheahan 5:01, Samantha Del 5:26. Queen of the mountain: Carly Isaac 5:24, Bree Garreffa 5:50, MaryAnne Pollard 6:16, Maddy White 6:56, Brett Grace 7:05, Jade Benham 8:09.

Men’s dash: Tom Myers 3:39, Hugo Funcke 3:48, Tom Draffen 3:56, James Cowan 4:14 +35, Lochlan Grundy 4:41.

King of the Mountain: Tom Rodgers 5:56, Matthew Hall 7:00, Dave Card 7:11, Jake Donaldson 7:21, Shane Chipperfield 8:21, Hans PeterssonDunn 8:32.

Hayley Patterson, Kate Kilby, Amy Smith and Baelea Collins flew the flag for Bridgewater. LH PHOTOS James and Max Coatsworth, Fred Trembath, Curtis Mangan and Hamish Catto

Boort’s wheelbarrow team of Isabel Hosking, Georgia Haw and Percy, Carly Isaac and Olivia McEvoy

Support for Carly Isaac from Natarsha Catherine, grandmother Wendy Ward, brother Ethan, grandfather Lance Ward and father Ash

Carly Isaac goes to an early lead in the dash

Katie Cummins

Bianca Stevenson

Kale Durham falters early in the men’s race

Big field at FARA Day

MARK Hamley and Owen Bailey have taken out Wedderburn Golf Club’s FARA Day 4BBB men’s event with a score of 46 points.

The annual event raising money for the Friedreich Ataxia Research Association was held last Friday with 43 pairs taking to the fairways.

The association does not receive government funding and relies on donations. Wedderburn has raised more than $95,000 since the club began assisting FARA - $5000 last Friday alone.

The men’s winners were successful on countback from Robert Tonkin and Byron Bird.

Magpie swoops in on school holiday golf workshop

Carmel Fitzpatrick and Wendy Laffin won the ladies’ competition with 48 points.

Men’s B Grade was won by youngsters Harrison Condliffe and Logan Wilson on 47 points, ahead of Jackson Zagame and Nick Olive on 46.

Nearest the pin were John Tormey (7th hole), Alison Fahey (13th) and Noah Condliffe (17th).

Ladies’ longest drive went to Chelsea Bird, while Byron Bird won the A Grade men’s prize and Ian Wardell took out the B Grade award.

Neil Collier had an eagle on the 3rd hole.

WITH chocolates on the line for holing a putt, teenagers learning to play at Inglewood Golf Club’s school holiday program were full of concentration.

With a swooping magpie to contend with, as well as competitive pressure, there was a lot to think about.

The program attracted an impressive 25 players on Monday and Tuesday, from primary age upwards and from as far afield as Echuca.

All of the primary school children were having their first crack at the sport, while the older children had mostly played or had lessons before.

One of the teachers, Paul Condliffe, started playing golf as a 12-year-old at Inglewood and said most of the kids attending the program were from East Loddon P12 College.

In the end, five boys got the chocolates – although some of the claims of holing a putt might have been a little suspect.

Logan Wilson, Harrison Condliffe, Jack Masters, Darcy Condliffe and Noah Condliffe at this week’s Inglewood golf clinic. LH PHOTO

Inglewood’s David Vanston Tammy Clapp prepares raffle prizes

Keith Bird and Robbie Sutton

Debbie Bush, Glenda Bird, Susie Lockhart and Sue Sutton at FARA Day. LH PHOTO

Billy Austin, Jimmy Brown and Tommy Clapp

Kim Laffin

Dean Leggett

Brett White

Bridgey ready to debut in new competition

BRIDGEWATER Bowls Club launches its first campaign in the Goldfields Pennant competition on Saturday.

The club’s second team will play in Division Two of the Maryborough-based competition, beginning with a home game against Newstead Blue.

Other teams they will face during the season are Maldon, Dunolly Gold, Avoca, Maryborough Highland Society, Dunolly Green, Carisbrook and Talbot.

Bridgewater’s first team will play in Division Six of Bendigo

and the club will also return to Monday pennant after not entering a side in 2023-2024, with the season beginning on October 14.

The club’s open day will be held on Sunday, with a 5.30pm start, barbecue dinner, and three games of six ends to be played under lights.

Inglewood’s Bendigo Midweek season in Division One begins on October 12, with a clash against Eaglehawk.

The club will also field a team in Division One of the Bendigo weekend pennant competition,

Guarantee given on cup prizemoney

CUP race prizemoney will stay at $6500 for Boort Trotting Club’s only meeting of the harness racing season.

Club officials had been locked in talks with Harness Racing Victoria amid fears prizemoney for the feature pacing and trotting cups next March would be slashed under new HRV proposals.

However, officials have had confirmation the feature races will offer the same stakes. Clarity is still being sought from HRV on other races that will make up the program.

Boort and Wedderburn clubs have each lost a meeting in a HRV revamp as the governing body tries to arrest its financial situation.

Wedderburn’s only meeting, the cup, will be on Australia Day and mark the return of the sport to Donaldson Park for the first time since the new complex was completed.

which kicks off against North Bendigo on October 26.

Serpentine, last season’s Division Three premiers have been promoted for the new weekend season.

Wedderburn and Boort start their North Central season of Midweek Pennant bowls next Tuesday.

Wedderburn will face Charlton and Boort will play against St Arnaud, both on their home greens.

Division One and Division Two Weekend Pennant begins on Saturday, October 12, with Wed-

derburn again meeting Charlton, while Boort will play St Arnaud CC.

Pyramid Hill will field two teams in the Northern District competition, beginning with Midweek Pennant next Wednesday.

Pyramid Hill 1 will play in Division One and Pyramid Hill 2 will be in Division Two.

Both teams will also play in Saturday Pennant competition, beginning on October 12, in Division Two and Division Three respectively.

League names all-star side

FOUR Wedderburn players and two Boort Magpies have been selected in the North Central football league’s Team of the Year.

Redbacks coach Tom Metherell was picked on a half-back flank, with teammates Tom Campbell and Oscar Holt both selected on the half-forward line.

Another Wedderburn star, Jackson McEwen, was named on the interchange bench.

Boort’s James Keeble was chosen alongside Campbell and Holt on an all-Loddon Valley halfforward line.

Magpies onballer Jhye Baddeley-Kelly, who finished equal third in the league’s best-andfairest Feeny Medal and won Bort’s besty and fairest, was ruck-rover in the team.

Birchip Watchem’s Nick Rippon was selected as captain, with coaching duties given to Bulls boss Trevor Ryan.

October 12

Calivil North v Raywood

Mincha West v Lake Meran

Yarrawalla v Serpentine

Dingee bye

October 19

Dingee v Calivil North

Lake Meran v Raywood

Serpentine v Mincha West

Yarrawalla bye

October 26

Dingee v Lake Meran

Mincha West v Yarrawalla

Raywood v Serpentine

Calivil North bye

November 2

Lake Meran v Calivil North

Yarrawalla v Raywood

Serpentine v Dingee

Mincha West bye

November 9

Dingee v Yarrawalla

Raywood v Mincha West

Calivil North v Serpentine

Lake Meran bye

November 16

Yarrawalla v Calivil North

Dingee v Mincha West

Serpentine v Lake Meran

Raywood bye

November 23

Mincha West v Calivil North

Dingee v Raywood

Yarrawalla v Lake Meran

Serpentine bye

November 30

Raywood v Calivil North

Lake Meran v Mincha West

Serpentine v Yarrawalla

Dingee bye

FROM PAGE 28

Redbacks’ star moving south

“That helped me narrow down where I was going to go.”

Living in Bendigo, but still working in Wedderburn, Hargreaves said it was too much to keep commuting for football training and matches as well.

“North Bendigo also offered me an assistant coaching role, which I think would be a really good opportunity as I’d like to coach one day. It was the right place at the right time.”

Hargreaves’ call was made easier by talking to Wedderburn teammates who had played elsewhere and advised him that changing clubs could freshen up his career.

His fiancé, Redbacks netball star Courtney Gleeson, is planning to take a year off from the sport.

Wedderburn coach Tom Metherell said he had been aware that Hargreaves was contemplating leaving the club.

“We had been speaking about it since a couple of weeks before our season ended,” he said. “We had a good chat, and I understand where he was coming from.”

Metherell said Hargreaves would be missed, but his departure would create opportunities for others.

“We have a few ruckmen we have been talking to, so hopefully something comes from that.”

North Bendigo finished second on the ladder this season but bowed out in the preliminary final.

December 7

Calivil North v Dingee

Raywood v Lake Meran

Mincha West v Serpentine

Yarrawalla bye

December 14

Lake Meran v Dingee

Yarrawalla v Mincha West

Serpentine v Raywood

Calivil North bye

January 18

Calivil North v Lake Meran

Raywood v Yarrawalla

Dingee v Serpentine

Mincha West bye

February 1

Yarrawalla v Dingee

Mincha West v Raywood

Serpentine v Calivil North

Lake Meran bye

February 8

Calivil North v Yarrawalla

Mincha West v Dingee

Lake Meran v Serpentine

Raywood bye

February 15

Calivil North v Mincha West

Raywood v Dingee

Lake Meran v Yarrawalla

Serpentine bye

February 22

Calivil North v Raywood

Mincha West v Lake Meran

Yarrawalla v Serpentine

Dingee bye

March 1

Dingee v Calivil North

Lake Meran v Raywood

Serpentine v Mincha West

Yarrawalla bye

March 2 - Junior Championships

March 8 - Semi-finals

March 15 - Grand final

Fielding action, change

By GARY WALSH

A BRAND new Twenty20 competition is a highlight of the Upper Loddon Cricket Association’s 2024-25 season that starts on Saturday.

The senior competition has expanded to five teams with the addition of the resurgent Bridgewater Bulls.

The season begins on Saturday with a two-day clash between reigning premiers Arnold Redbacks and Kingower.

The action-packed T20 games – 10 in total over five rounds of the season – will decide the inaugural Loddon Herald Cup.

The final, between the top two teams on a separate T20 ladder, will be played on Sunday December 15 at a venue to be decided.

New association president John Daldy, who is also president of Bridgewater, said he put up his hand to lead the competition because he “didn’t want the league to fall over.

“The situation is very simple. I did not want to see the league die, and it was heading that way.

“That was not because of others’ failures, but a few people wanted a bit of a change and to get some variety.

“Cricket has been struggling since COVID, so we’re just trying a few initiatives,” Daldy said this week.

HOW THE TEAMS STAND

ARNOLD

Last season’s Upper Loddon premiers –and wooden-spooners as well in a unique set of circumstances brought about by the four-team league – will have all the cupwinning team back again.

The Redbacks even have an international signing in New Zealander Ryan Balsley. Club captain Henry McCullough said the Kiwi was “a friend of friends” who had moved to Australia and was looking for a game.

McCullough said the team was training well. “Everyone is really keen, and the ground is looking well too, especially after the recent rain.”

BOORT YANDO

Club secretary Kristen Gooding said while numbers were strong at the junior level, the senior ranks were still a little thin.

She said two or three of the juniors were capable of stepping up to play seniors if needed, while others were too inexperienced or had tennis commitments.

Boort Yando will field an under 17 team in the Upper Loddon league, and an under 13 side in the Northern Districts Cricket Association competition.

The T20 matches would make things easier for farmers and those working on the harvest to find time to play, Gooding said: “It’s not such a big commitment.”

BRIDGEWATER

Club president John Daldy said Bridgewater was still looking for players, especially at the junior level, and was keen to attract more cricketers from neighbouring Inglewood.

The club has two Inglewood players on its books and is hoping with the football season finished that more will come on board.

Daldy said several former Bridgewater players had returned to the revived club:

That variety includes the T20 matches, which are seen as a draw for younger players in particular.

Daldy said there was “some curiosity about T20”, which was considered a more social form of cricket, but he did not want it to

“We’re still looking to take anyone who wants to throw their hand up.”

KINGOWER

Club secretary Wendy Murphy reported that Kingower’s famous oval was “looking green at the moment, as it usually does at this time of year, although it definitely needs a mow before our first home game against Arnold”.

“And the new grass we put in last year around the practice wickets hasn’t been eaten by the kangaroos yet.”

Kingower will have at least one new senior player this season, with Alex Abate making the trek from Serpentine to join the club. Most of last season’s players will go around again.

WEDDERBURN BAND

Last season’s club captain Luke Holt has moved to Darwin to play football and will be a big loss.

His successor Will Holt said senior player numbers were okay although availability might suffer during harvest.

“We will have a junior team,” Holt said. “We’re a bit pushed for numbers, but provided we can get a couple of permit (overage) players we will be all right.”

He said the T20 competition would appeal to those who preferred a shorter format of the game, especially younger players, and would be a boost to recruitment, hopefully encouraging them to play the longer forms as well.

Last season’s premiers Arnold A few people wanted a bit of a change and to get some variety

- New association president John Daldy

VICTORIA HOTEL PYRAMID HILL

attract players who were not interested in the traditional longer forms of the game.

T20 will be a league within the league – as well as having its own ladder, results will contribute to the overall club standings at the

end of the season. Bridgewater, whose withdrawal from the competition last year put the association’s future in jeopardy, is luring players from Inglewood to help boost numbers on its return to the league.

EST. 1874

The Bulls, Redbacks and Kingower will be joined by Wedderburn Band and Boort-Yando in the senior league, which will play 16 rounds of two-day, one-day and T20 matches.

The junior competition will be limited to four teams, with Arnold not fielding a side.

The friendly pub open for meals every day with Friday happy hour, trivia, raffles and a chance to win $1,000

Trading hours

Monday – Open 3.00pm

Dinner from 6.00pm

Tuesday – Open 2.00pm

Dinner from 6.00pm

Wednesday – Open Midday

Lunch from 12.00pm

Dinner from 6.00pm

Pot’n’Parma Night

Thursday – Open Midday

Dinner from 5.30pm

Steak’n’Pot Night

Friday – Open Midday

Lunch from 12.00pm

Dinner from 5.30pm

Happy Hour 5.00pm – 6.30pm

Loddon HERALD sport

SHOCK MOVE

Hargreaves hole at Redbacks

By GARY WALSH

A CHANCE meeting in a pub has led Wedderburn’s star ruckman Jordan Hargreaves to make the shock move to North Bendigo in the Heathcote District Football League.

The departure of Hargreaves, who won the North Central league’s Feeny Medal for the best-and-fairest player in 2021 and played more than 250 games for the club, will leave a huge hole in the Redbacks’ onball division.

Hargreaves, 29, was awarded Wedderburn’s best player in finals award this season as the Redbacks made it through to the preliminary final, and finished as their second-highest vote getter in the 2024 Feeny Medal.

“I was thinking about it for a fair while before making the call,” Hargreaves told the Loddon Herald of his move.

“I was due for a bit of a change.”

After playing for Wedderburn all through his career apart from a stint with Bendigo Pioneers in Victoria’s elite under-18 league, Hargreaves said it was a hard decision to leave the Redbacks.

“At the same time, you have to try new things now and then.”

The Pioneers connection was what finalised his decision to move on.

“I know the North Bendigo coach Rob Bennett from Pioneer days, and I ran into him at the pub and had a bit of a chat with him,” Hargreaves said.

CONTINUED PAGE 26

YOUNG Inglewood axeman Blake Coffey has taken out a major event at the Royal Melbourne Show woodchop championships and won family bragging rights in the process.

Coffey, 17 and in Year 11 student at Bendigo’s Marist College, took out the underhand handicap (275mm).

Brother John Coffey finished fifth and their cousin Matt, who won the Rookie World Championship in Italy this year, came in third. Blake also finished fourth in a 275mm handicap event on the opening day of the show, which is celebrating its 176th year.

He won his semi-final in that event, beating the eventual winner of the final, Dale Hansford.

Blake, who began chopping aged seven, admitted it was nice to get a win over family members at such a prestigious event.

He had no fears competing against older and more experienced axemen at the Show, and hoped to emulate his cousin on the world stage.

“I have been chopping against them for a few years now, and I’m hoping to start chopping in all the bigger events in the next few years,” he said.

Coffey stars at the Royal

Blake Coffey Redbacks’ ruckman Jordan Hargreaves had the measure of Donald’s Andrew Browne in the finals. Now Hargreaves is headed to the Heathcote league. LH PHOTO