Loddon Herald 3 August 2023

GREEN LIGHT Highway speed review to start

By CHRIS EARL

CALDER Highway speed limits at Inglewood will be reviewed.

The breakthrough comes more than six months after a New Year’s Eve truck rollover closed Brooke Street for more than 10 hours.

An ongoing community campaign has called for sections of the street to be 40kmh and installation of speed check signs to increase safety for pedestrians and drivers. Brook Street is currently a 50kmh zone.

Inglewood Development and Tourism last Thursday was told there would be a review.

President Peter Moore said: “This is a breakthrough in making the street safer for shoppers. There have been too many accidents and too many close calls this year alone.”

Department of Transport and Planning later confirmed plans to assess local requests.

“When assessing speed limit reviews the department takes into account factors including types of road users, the surrounding road environment, crash risk and history, council recommendation, community sentiment and traffic volume to ensure set speed limits are appropriate,” the department said.

The Inglewood review comes as Calder Highway Improvement Committee also discusses calls

for action to improve safety at Wedderburn and Bridgewater.

Copies of a petition organised by Cheryl Fowler to install a pedestrian crossing at Wedderburn were tabled at CHIC’s meeting in Gisborne last Friday.

Loddon Shire’s representative Wendy Murphy said department representatives would investigate whether crossing works could be added to highway projects.

Cr Murphy said” “The department said it would continue to monitor any funding that may arise. It’s on the radar but not one it is particularly looking at.”

And Cr Murphy said Friday’s meeting was also told the department was investigating the current bridge crossing the Loddon River at Bridgewater.

CHIC members heard that the bridge assessment was in its development phase and would include assessment of options that could see an upgrade or the bridge replaced.

There have also been calls in Bridgewater for the installation of a pedestrian crossing.

Original features and modern living with space await at this impeccably presented, 1950’s Australian weatherboard family home after an amazing refurbishment. Features of the 4BR home include polished Red gum floating floor, Reverse cycle split system & ceiling fans, Enclosed solid fuel heating for that real hot spot, Renovated Kitchen/dining area with quality

Jimmy to reveal ‘hidden’ face of community

THE scissors are poised to help Jimmy Davidson reveal his true love of the community he has called home for the last five years. Jimmy’s first-ever beard has been cultivated since arriving in Newbridge and will be shaved off on Saturday night as a fundraiser “giving back to the nice place where I live”. John Good (left) and Jimmy have already seen $1000 raised. “We’ll be using the money to give locals a helping hand to get little things done,” Jimmy said ahead of Newbridge’s Greatest Shave.

LH PHOTO

WELL, Bradley of Boort has been pretty flash with this week’s Treemendous Sign. We’re impressed with how he has chipped so much detail into just nine words in good old black and white lettering.

THE simplicity of Bradley’s message would have been swamped by the hi-tech rescue gear that was demonstrated by State Emergency Service volunteers at an open day in Wedderburn on Sunday. Even local ambulance volunteers, absolutely legends across Loddon communities, turned out to see the road crash rescue jaws of life in action. “They’ve bigger toys than us,” said one normally confined to using scissors on a bandage!

MOVING on to another type of Jaws - remember the movie? Most Jaws afficionados might already know that the three different versions of the 1.2-ton, mechanically powered predator created for the film were all nicknamed “Bruce” by Spielberg

after his lawyer Bruce Ramer. Before filming began on Martha’s Vineyard, Spielberg invited industry friends (including Martin Scorsese, George Lucas and screenwriter John Milius) to check out the mechanical shark in development. When Lucas playfully stuck his head in the shark’s mouth, Milius and Spielberg grabbed the controls and clamped the jaw shut. And it stuck, trapping the rising-star director. After prying Lucas loose, the guys snuck out of the workshop, afraid they’d broken the contraption.

THE Oracle, quiet of late, was chatting at the weekend about his trip north for Gentleman Mal’s 700th game of football umpire. “I’d read the stuff my neighbour over at Woke Farm said about calling Mal a Football Pope. Didn’t believe a word until that day trip to Charlton. Even the late Queen would have been trumped by the welcome Mal received,” he said.

GETTING a different, aka unique, photograph for a newspaper is all about humouring the lens. At the Loddon Herald we set up photos to be the news and different (not happy snaps). In a reverse of the old photobombing, the big challenge for newspaper photography these days is the sudden emergenence of people armed with phone camera that sends heads looking in all different directions. To borrow Bradley’s phrase, guess these modern-day snappers developing the skill to not gatecrash a set photo shoot is a work in progress.

Food help trial extended

A SIX-WEEK food bank trial at Korong Vale has been extended to December.

The six-session review of the new service involving Inglewood Community House, Crystal Cave Care and Bendigo Foodshare agreed to the fortnightly service’s extension.

Louise Bewley said the service had started in the mechanics’ institute hall before transferring to the town’s hotel.

“We are also being auspiced by Kooyoora Women’s Network to support the Korong Vale community,” she said.

“We have had families from the local district as well as Charlton, Wedderburn, Borung and Boort make use of the service.

“We are now averaging 30 visits each fortnight. Over the six trial sessions, we provided two tonnes of food and it is estimated people saved $250 each time.”

Next truck hits restoration line

RESTORATION of a Fargo truck has been started by members of Wedderburn Historical Engine and Machinery Society.

President Trevor Bailey told last week’s annual general meeting that the truck had been donated to the society by Don Tonkin.

He said the latest project fol-

lowed completion of restoration of a Day Elder vehicle last year. Mr Bailey was re-elected president with vice-president Barry Finch, secretary Lois Goddard and treasurer Peter McHugh.

The society again donated an award for presentation at Wedderburn College’s speech night last year.

Korong Vale’s fortnight food bank will continue until December.

Plan B back to first option

THE existing Bendigo-Kerang transmission line would have capacity increased under an alternative proposal for Victoria’s future energy needs released yesterday.

Victorian Energy Policy Centre’s No Longer Lost in Transmission report calls for the existing VNI West and Western Renewables Link projects to be scrapped.

Under the centre’s Plan B, report authors including Professor Bruce Mountain claim their alternative would save $5 billion.

Just two new smaller transmission lines would be required while existing easements in Victoria were upgraded.

The Bendigo-Kerang route upgrade would mirror the original preferred route for VNI West released last year, only to be dumped for Option 5A in February that now plots the path of 80-metre tall towers from Bulgana, near Stawell, between Wedderburn and Charlton and around Boort to Kerang.

The report, first hinted by Professor Mountain at the Loddon Herald forum in Wedderburn in May, says Plan B would deliver much more hosting capacity to meet Victoria’s ambitious renewable energy targets at less cost to consumers.

Yesterday’s report launch was welcomed by Mallee MP but criticised by VNI West proponent Australian Energy Market Operator.

AEMO executive general man-

Spell

“The report lays out a Plan B which would deliver transmission goals at a lower cost and with less disruption to farmland, communities and the environment,” she said.

“The report costs AEMO’s extended Option 5A plan at $11 billion inclusive of interest during the construction phase alone.

“This cost will be passed on to consumers, and it will continue with the annual operating costs.

The extended VNI West could raise annual electricity bills by $940 million more than Plan B by 2036 – which is a huge impost on Victorian families.

“This is without accounting for the damage and disruption to farming and their communities along the project’s path since the Victorian Government first altered the route in February.”

Dr Webster said the centre’s report highlighted what had gone wrong with AEMO and its processes.

IN BRIEF

Scooter helmet warning

LODDON police this week warned scooter riders that they could be fined for not wearing a helmet. Sgt Ben Huismann said local police had been receiving reports of cyclists and scooter riders not wearing helmets. He said cyclists needed to observe helemt laws. If you do not wear an approved helmet while riding, police have the power to stop you and issue either a warning or a fine that can range from $231 to $925.

Funding tap

LODDON Mayor Dan Straub said Loddon Shire’s objective was to tap into programs that will accelerate the development of the tourism industry and strengthen our natural and built tourism assets and experiences following cancellation of the Commonwealth Games.

ager system design Merryn York said: “AEMO’s initial review of Victoria Energy Policy Centre Plan B report shows it would result in lower levels of renewable generation entering the grid, will likely require the acquisition of people’s homes on the outskirts of Ballarat and Bendigo, and would result in long periods of power system disruption.

“Plan B would not sufficiently support renewable generation development in north-west Victoria – meaning less renewable generation would be built, and that less energy from renewable

sources will end up powering Victorian homes and businesses.

“Plan B projects will not deliver the capacity needed in western and north-western Victoria. This means that generation from the sunniest and some of the windiest parts of the state would not be serviced by enough transmission.”

But Dr Webster says the Victorian Energy Policy Centre report was damning and laid bare the cost blowout and waste of the Western Victoria energy transmission project, threatening prime Mallee farmland.

“Now we need to make Labor governments realise the impact it has on our farmers,” she said.

The centre report outlines an alternative design to sufficiently deliver Victoria’s Renewable Energy Target of 65 per cent of the state’s electricity generation to be supplied by renewable sources in Victoria by 2030, and 95 per cent by 2035 in what authors Professor Mountain, Simon Bartlett and Darren Edwards say will be a more cost effective and efficient manner.

REACTION, ANALYSIS IN NEXT WEEK’S LODDON HERALD

Out of gas

FROM 1 January 2024, planning permits for new homes and residential subdivisions in Victoria will only connect to all electric networks, with houses taking advantage of more efficient, cheaper and cleaner electric appliances.

Dressed and booked

TARNAGULLA Primary School will hold a dress-up parade for Book Week this month,

out

land access needs, says energy commissioner

TRANSMISSION Company Victoria should spell out why it needs to assess land for the VNI West transmission line project through the Loddon.

Australian Energy Infrastructure Commissioner Andrew Dyer pointed to his latest report at a forum in St Arnaud on Monday on the need for major project proponents to have proper protocols when going onto farmland.

Mr Dyer addressed more than 60 people at the forum organised by Victorian Farmers’ Federation St Arnaud branch and North Grampians Shire.

He earlier attended a series of roundtable discussions that included VFF Wedderburn branch president Graham Nesbit and VFF energy and transmission taskforce member Sue Gould.

Mr Dyer said: “It is several decades since any long-distance, large-scale transmission projects have been developed and not all jurisdictions or proponents have protocols in place.

“There is also a general lack of enforceable codes of conduct that industry should adhere to in dealing with landholders and the broader community,” he said.

“In some cases, this has led to inappropriate and disproportionate behaviour by proponents and their contractors when accessing land under legislative powers.

“Forceful actions by proponents have caused great reputational and relationship harm and have fuelled mistrust in landholder communities.”

Monday’s forum was also attended by landholders who claim to have been impacted by the Western Renewables Link project that will connect to VNI West at Bulgana, near Stawell.

Mr Dyer said it was important any legislation for projects was supported by a protocol or code of conduct to access land.

He said the Wimmera Mallee pipeline had been an example of proper consulta-

tion with innovative solutions that had support and helped farmers.

“That pipeline was seen as a win. When you have the community engaged, they will own it and make it work,” he said.

Speakers at Monday’s forum criticised VNI West for forcing regional communities to carry the project’s burden without local benefits.

Climate Action Centre on Tuesday put out a list of eight “independent experts” backing VNI West, including CEO of Wimmera Southern Mallee Development Chris Sounness.

Andrew Dyer speaks in St Arnaud on Monday night. LH PHOTO

Professor Bruce Mountain at the Loddon Herald’s Your Energy Future forum in Wedderburn earlier this year. LH PHOTO

FLOOD RECOVERY UPDATE BULLETINAUGUST

HEALTH & WELLBEING SUPPORT

Royal Flying Doctor Service - Flying Doctor Wellbeing - Available to those aged 18+. Call (03) 8412 0480.

Rural Financial Counselling Service - free and con dential nancial support - Call 1300 735 578

Mind Australia Bendigo Call 1300 286 463 or visit mindaustralia.org.au

Orange Door - You have a right to be safe - Call 1800 512 359

Australian Community Support Organisation (ACSO) - An intake organisation for Alcohol and other Drugs, Mental health, Youth and other clinical services for the Loddon area.

1800respect - Con dential information, counselling and support service. Call 1800 737 732

Nurse on Call 24 hour caring and professional health advice 1300 60 60 24.

Lifeline: 24hr crisis support and suicide prevention services: 13 11 14 or lifeline. org.au

Beyond Blue Information and support for anxiety and/or depression: 1300 224 636 or beyondblue.com.au

Kids Help Line 24hr phone and online counselling service for people aged 5-25: 1800 551 800 or kidshelpline.com.au

Seniors Rights Victoria - Elder abuse, prevention and support - 1300 368 821

Emerging Minds Provides resources for parents, carers, and families about infant and child mental health: emergingminds.com.au

Translation and Interpreter Services

Provides access to phone and on-site interpreting services. Requests must be submitted at least 48 hours in advance. www.tisnational.gov.au

National Relay Service Assistance making a phone call if you are deaf or have a hearing or speech impediment. Speak and listen number: 1300 555 727.

LOCAL SUPPORT SERVICES

Community Health/Hospitals

Boort District Health

3 Kiniry St, Boort P: (03) 5451 5200

Inglewood and District Health Services

3 Hospital St, Inglewood P: (03) 5431 7000

Northern District Community Health

P: (03) 5451 0200

Boort Medical Centre

2 Coutts St, Boort P:(03) 5451 5200

Dingee Bush Nursing Centre

21 King St, Dingee P:(03) 5436 8309

Marong Medical Practice

8 Hospital St, Inglewood P:(03) 5438 3308

Wedderburn Health Clinic

25 Wilson St, Wedderburn P: (03) 5494 3511

Legal Services

Loddon Campaspe Community Legal Service P: 1800 450 909

Neighbourhood Houses

Boort Resource and Information Centre

(BRIC) 119-121 Godfrey St, Boort

P: (03) 5455 2716

Inglewood Community

Neighbourhood House

Cnr Verdon & Market St, Inglewood

P: (03)5455 2716

Pyramid Hill Neighbourhood House

43 Kelly St, Pyramid Hill P: (03) 5455 7129

Wedderburn Community House

24 Wilson St, Wedderburn

P: (03) 5494 3489

Collage ignites community spirit

In the lead up to the Yarrawalla Community Bon re Night students from Loddon schools participated in creative writing workshops with Lorraine Marwood and collage making workshops with Melbournebased ‘The Paper Joint’. Year 8 students from Pyramid Hill College collaborated to produce a magni cent bon re collage that rivalled the intensity of the re on the night.

The bon re was a great opportunity for more than 70 Yarrawalla locals, to gather at the Recreation Reserve, share a meal and reconnect after the displacement of the October 2022 oods. Building community capacity to support each other during events like the recent ood are so important to the future of communities like Yarrawalla.

Murray Public Health Network funded the event that included a wonderful meal provided by East Loddon Lions Club, entertainment by singer/songwriter Sherri Parry, and storytelling by Jan Wositzky. A Volunteer committee was strengthened by new locals joining the Yarrawalla Recreation Reserve Committee and the Yarrawalla Community Planning Group as a result of the Bon re event.

PICTURED: Connecting the Yarrawalla community (L-R): Sue Bennett, Michelle Balic, Simoné Henning and Miranda Smith enjoyed the meal, bon re and entertainment. (Photo: A. Perryman)

WHAT’S ON

Monday 14 August 9am – 4.30pm Red Cross

Communicating in Recovery Workshop

Loddon Shire Council is keen to support Loddon Shire residents who o er frontline services during a natural disaster or other emergency to participate in this training which promotes best-practice e ective communication for those working in emergency recovery. Council will reimburse the $370 course fee and a transport cost up to $100 to travel to the training in Bendigo on Monday 14 August.

To register, or for more information, go to https://rb.gy/n1os4 or call Mal Brown, Community Recovery Manager, Loddon Shire Council, on 0499 978 145.

Save the date

The $600,000 gold Melbourne Cup is coming to the Boort Agricultural and Pastoral Show on Saturday 14 October 2023. Get your photo taken with the Cup. Watch out for more details.

Women’s Health Loddon Mallee ‘Women RisingEmpowering Flood Recovery’ Survey

Natural disasters are known to worsen existing gender inequalities and cause unequal health, social and economic outcomes that disproportionately a ect women. This Women’s Health Loddon Mallee (WHLM) project understands that it is essential to hear from ood impacted women so that we can better understand their experiences following the 2022 Floods.

You are invited to complete the survey at https://rb.gy/pmqar

GRANT UPDATE

Victorian Women & Benevolent Trust (VWBT) – Sub-Fund Grants

This program aims to provide small grants to eligible organisations for innovative programs for Victorian women and girls that directly address the purposes of the 17 VWBT Sub-Funds. Grants between $2,000 and $10,000 are available depending on the Sub-Fund.

Durham Ox Hall ood repair nears completion

Repairs and refurbishment of the Durham Ox hall, which was ooded in October 2022, are nearing completion. The repair works are made possible through the insurance Loddon Shire Council holds over the building on behalf of the volunteer Committee of Management.

PICTURED: Painter, Laurie Beilby, puts a nal coat on one of the hall’s walls. (Photo: P. Byrne)

LODDON SHIRE SERVICES AND CONTACTS

Loddon Shire Council’s Flood Recovery team would love to hear from you and assist you through your ood recovery.

Please get in touch if you would like to chat about ood recovery for you and your community.

Call Mal: 0499 978 145 or Josie: 0474 911 783

Applicant organisations are asked to only apply to one Sub-Fund, so they should choose the most appropriate Sub-Fund for the project. Eligible projects must address the needs of women and girls living in Victoria. Applications close 25 August 2023. For more information go to: https://www.vwt.org.au/grants/sub-funds/

Community Volunteer Grants

The Federal Department of Social Services’ 2023-24 Volunteer Grants for Families and Communities Program is now calling for Expressions of Interest (EOIs) with your local Federal Member of Parliament (MP). The Volunteer Grants Activity is an element of the Families and Communities Program, which aims to strengthen relationships, support families, improve the wellbeing of children and young people, reduce the cost of family breakdown and strengthen family and community functioning.

The objectives of Volunteer Grants are to help community organisations to support the e orts of Australia’s volunteers, help community organisations to support the inclusion of vulnerable people through volunteering and encourage, support and increase participation in volunteering.

$10 million is available in 2023-24. Grants of between $1,000 and $5,000 are available to eligible not-for-pro t community organisations. This funding is to be used to:

 purchase eligible small equipment items for use by volunteers

 contribute to volunteers’ fuel costs, during the course of their volunteer work

 contribute to transport costs for volunteers with disability who are unable to drive

 assist with the cost of training courses for volunteers

 undertake background screening checks for volunteers

 conduct activities to promote awareness of, and increase participation in, volunteering opportunities

 adapt practises to support volunteers’ safety.

For more information and to apply go to https://shorturl.at/oIY68

Canoe launcher reinstated at Durham Ox

Much to the delight of canoe enthusiasts, the canoe launcher on the Serpentine Creek at Durham Ox has been replaced after the previous launcher was swept away in the October 2022 ood.

For up-to-date information regarding ood recovery and council services:

 Visit our website at www.loddon.vic.gov.au

 Call our o ce between 8.15am-4.45pm, Monday-Friday on (03) 5494 1200; or

 Go to our Facebook page facebook.com/LoddonShire/

Footpath fees: work towards consistency

DISGRUNTLED shopkeepers have been urged to work with Loddon Shire to comply with Federal and State Government regulations.

Operations director Steven Phillips and compliance manager David Price told Inglewood traders last week they did not want to be dictatorial in implementing permit compliance for footpath signs and display of goods.

“We have to manage issues ... that’s the purpose of the permit and this will be about compromise for everyone,” Mr Phillips told the meeting of Inglewood Tourism and Development.

“Council has a risk to manage. The permit process will involve an evaluation (of the application) and that may need modifications,” he said.

Mr Price said council had received 10 permit applications since writing to traders last month on meeting footpath rules under disability access legislation.

Traders have also been critical of the revised fee structure, however, Inglewood trader Denise Gartside said the Loddon fee were low compared with other nearby municipalities.

She said her Brooke Street business had received a disability ac-

cess compliance certificate after an assessment in 2018.

Faye Orange, who co-ordinates the town’s Ambulance Auxiliary Op Shop, said display of goods had met Ambulance Victoria requirements and “have never paid a council fee”.

Mr Phillips said: “We are at the beginning of a long journey with a poor history of inconsistency (of issuing permits and compliance.”

Carey Imms said businesses putting goods on the footpath encouraged impulse buying and showed the town was open.

Mr Phillips said council had to manage risk and there were hardship policies to assist business and fee waivers available for community organisations.

A move to waive fees for a year failed at last week’s council meeting.

Take time to say #ThanksforCaring

Inglewood and Districts Health Service encourages the community to recognise those who care for older Australians and say “thanks for caring” ahead of Aged Care Employee Day on Monday 7 th August 2023.

IDHS Director of Clinical and Community Services – April McKenzie is asking the

Pop-up art highlights homlessness

STUDENTS at Pyramid Hill College and Boort District School have put the finishing colourful touches to couches that will pop up around the region next week.

The couches, brightly painted under the watchful eye of renowned street artist Lukas Kasper, will promote Homelessness Week in the Loddon, Gannawarra and Buloke Shires.

Northern District Community Health’s Anna

Beamish said the painted couches and chairs would raise awareness of homlessness through the couch surfing challenge.

“The challenge is an easy way to involve yourself and to experience the growing issue of insecure housing and homelessness. We will raise awareness about the challenges faced by homeless individuals, foster empathy, and promote understanding within the community, she said.

community to take a moment and think about the quiet achievers and the superheroes who provide care with professionalism, compassion and dedication for our loved ones and give them the recognition they deserve.

“It’s been a particularly challenging eighteen months for aged care workers in residential and home care services, leaving many families and friends unable to visit loved ones in care for weeks.

“It often fell to the carers, the nurses and other sta to make up for that loss of family contact and become that crucial connection for frail and vulnerable older Australians.

“So in the lead up to 7 th August, we ask you to take time to think of the nurses, personal care workers, chefs, cleaners, gardeners, laundry sta , leisure and lifestyle teams and administration sta when you next visit a loved one in aged care and say “thanks for caring”.

Inglewood and Districts Health Service are recognising all their sta on Aged Care Employees Day, as all our sta contribute to the care of the older person.

You can also say thank you to the IDHS sta for the care they provide through Care Opinion via the IDHS website or QR code

Jamison Walters, Lukas Kasper and Toby Peter give a pop-up art sofa the finishing touches. LH PHOTO

Denise Gartside

Post office’s hot mail comes

THE long-vacated Inglewood bakery will be transformed into the towns new post office over the next 12 months.

Local post office agency owner Kylie Turner has announced plans to relocate from Grant Street by July 2024. She has purchased the former bakery building in Brooke Street where one of the last occupants was visiting solicitor Reg Schleiger.

Kylie said plans for the heritage building included retaining the original oven

as a feature of the new post office. “This will be a big restoration, renovation and rehabilitation project ... there will be all three elements in the transformation,” she said.

Plans include a drive-in delivery area for daily arrival of parcels and letters and a designated sorting room.

“When I bought the post office agency just over a year ago, Australia Post said it was keen for me to find desirable, suitable premises in the main street,” she said.

“The new location will also have easier access with customers not having to negotiate steps. I have one customer who calls from the footpath, unable to climb the steps. I go out and then arrange for her to pay bills at the moment.

“We have a builder lined up and are in talks with Loddon Shire on permits needed to have works done.

“It’s exciting for us, for the main street and the plan is to be in the old bakery by July 1,” Kylie said.

Funding loss will force rethink, says Holt

LOSS of State Government funding will see a rethink of activities conducted by Rural Councils Victoria, Loddon Shire councillors have been told.

Cr Gavan Holt told last week’s meeting the loss of funding would need a rethink on the organisation and how it was funded.

“That could well involve the issue of

Water share updated

THE Loddon system is still to receive low reliability water share allocation following the the Northern Resource Manager’s updated seasonal dertermination released on Tuesday.

Loddon, Broken, Goulburn and Bullarook are already sitting at 100 per cent for high water reliability share.

The Murray system seasonal determination increases from 88 per cent of highreliability water shares (HRWS) to 90 per cent HRWS.

The Campaspe system increases from 100 per cent (HRWS) and 53 per cent of low-reliability water shares (LRWS) to 100 per cent HRWS and 62 per cent LRWS.

“The increase in the Murray system comes from updated Victorian tributary contributions and the Campaspe’s increase comes from spillable water account deductions,” said Resource Manager Mark Bailey

member fees,” Cr Holt said following his attendance at the annual RCV forum in Echuca.

RCV has 34 member councils out of 38 across the state classified as rural munipalities and was formed in 2005. The group has had State Government funding since 2006.

Among resources now provided are a climate change toolkit for rural councils, long-term financial planning software and an Environment Protection Act 2017 implementation toolkit.

RCV has also provided reports to evaluate fixing country roads and a blueprint for rural housing.

Kylie Turner plans moving Inglewood Post Office

after restoration of the town’s old bakery in Brooke Street. LH PHOTO

An ill wind blows south

ANALYSIS

LODDON Shire’s satisfaction rating has taken a hit but council remains at least equal to other small municipalities in the Victoria.

Last week’s release of the 2023 satisfaction survey was headlined by two key factors.

Residents in the Inglewood and Tarnagulla Wards hold a diametrically opposed perception of council service delivery compared with fellow citizens in Boort and Terrick Wards.

And to an extent, Wedderburn Ward, where customer service was unsurprisingly given a high billing, that town is where the council offices are located.

Roads and emergency management were other factors that dragged Loddon’s satisfaction rating to the lowest in a decade.

Both are heavily influenced, even dictated by the State and Federal Government.

Loddon, like so many rural councils, has been screaming for more road money out of government.

Mayor Dan Straub said after the Premier’s bombshell cancellation of the Commonwealth Games that roads should be given part of the pot of “money saved”.

Even the $2 billion-plus the Government has now promised for housing and tourism, among other things, still not an extra cent for roads. Mayor Straub accurately said even the whole $2 billion wouldn’t solve the crumbling country road crisis.

Emergency management was also marked heavily by the 400 Loddon residents survey over four quarters.

All areas of the shire were impacted by last October’s flood emergency. Yet, again, councils only act when told by the State Control Centre based in Melbourne.

There were positives in the satisfaction survey. With a score of 70, the appearance of public areas rated above the state-wide average (score of 67), while recreational facilities with a score of 69 was above that of the state-wide and small rural council average (68 and 67 respectively).

Council’s score of 69 for waste management rated higher than both the state-wide and small rural council average of 66.

Council’s overall performance was rated at 56 – matching that of the state-wide average and slightly above the rating of 55

Old station ‘is unsafe’

DEMOLITION of Inglewood’s old ambulance station could start within weeks after the Health Department declared the building unsafe.

The department last week said the brick building would come down after paramedics move into the new station next door.

But local residents are continuing their push to have the 1980’s station repurposed for use by the community or handed to Inglewood and Districts Health Service as an administrative office.

There had been discussions with members of Parliament to save the building.

Residents have already threatened a sit-on to prevent demolition.

The department said: “Following much consideration and with community safety in mind, a decision was made to demolish the old Inglewood ambulance branch due to the condition of the building.

“The condition of the existing buildings onsite, including the old Inglewood ambulance branch, have deteriorated and are no longer fit-for-purpose.

“Demolition ... will commence once the paramedics move into their new, multimillion-dollar facility.”

Plea to pedestrians: always use crossing

PEDESTRIANS have been urged to always use school pedestrian crossings.

Sgt Ben Huismann, of Wedderburn police, said the Wedderburn school crossing was the safest place in town to cross the Calder Highway.

for the small rural council average. Informing the community received a score of 58, consistent with the small rural council average and slightly above the statewide average of 57. Residents said they wanted more council information communicated through their local newspaper.

Community decisions at 54 scored above that of the small rural council average (52) and

state-wide average (51). The survey also showed areas residents thought more work needed to be done, including unsealed roads, planning and building permits, and sealed local roads.

Council’s chief executive officer Lincoln Fitzgerald said: “This year’s survey has again provided some insights into areas where Council performs well and where we could perform better.

While the survey had sent contemporary messages to council, the State Government should also take heed of results across regional Victoria.

Councils need more money in core areas like roads! Not just slugging ratepayers more but making government allocations more realistic for the country.

- CHRIS EARL

He said there had been recent reports of people not using the High Street crossing, even when it had an attendant on duty.

“No matter what time of day, the crossing is the safest place to cross the highway, even when a guard is not on duty,” Sgt Huismann said.

“Whether young or old, cross at the crossing. The signs are an indication for drivers to take additional care.”

Open day part of drive for volunteers

MOCK road crash rescues had State Emergency Service volunteers putting their skills to work at an open day in Wedderburn on Sunday.

Local volunteers were joined by counterparts from other units in the area as the SES embarks on a recruitment drive.

The demonstration was also part of training for Nathan Rogers, of Kangaroo Flat, who has been selected as the Wedderburn unit’s new controller.

Previous controller Paul Gordon-Cooke resigned earlier this year.

SES regional officer Brad Dalgliesh said Mr Rogers would be mentored by Gisborne’s Mike Bagnall.

Mr Rogers had applied for the position after it was advertised and Mr Dalgliesh said training was expected to be finished later in the year.

Among local volunteers taking part in the open day was Aaron Lancaster who recently rejoined the unit after a five-year break.

The Wedderburn unit has been short of members for several years. Sunday’s open day and a recruitment night next week ares part of SES efforts to bolster local numbers.

Meanwhile, Mr Dalgliesh said planning was continuing to revive the Dunolly unit.

The town’s unit has been in recess after facing a shortage of volunteers.

Pool study start close

IDENTIFYING funds to sustain sport and recreation opportunities in Loddon Shire will be part of a new study commissioned by council. Tenders for the recreation, open space and aquatic strategy, first mooted 18 months ago, have been called.

Council’s tender website site says the study to review existing recreation, open spaces and aquatic centres and mapping existing and potential services will close on August 18.

The successful tenders will be expected to prove “realistic planning based on council’s ability to fund, or attract external funding, for projects, including managing community expectations during the consultation phase”.

Council says it wants quality and sustainable recreation, open space and aquatic facilities.

Walsh’s hospital hobble

MURRAY Plains MP Peter Walsh has hobbled off to hospital. He went under the knife on Monday to repair a ruptured Achilles tendon. “I carried a strained tendon into my recent Kokoda walk, thinking an anti-inflammatory injection and some painkillers would do the trick.” he said.

Streetscape work update

It is great to see the Pyramid Hill streetscape project progress. The wet weather has been a challenge for the delivery, and we appreciate the community’s patience as works continue.

The construction program within Kelly Park is progressing steadily with footpath installation underway. Preparations for concrete work around the basketball court are in progress. The park benches have been installed in Lions Park, with the gardens and port holes in the fence the remaining items to be completed.

Governance Rules review

Council is currently reviewing its Governance Rules and invites members of the community to review and provide feedback on the document by 9am on Tuesday, 8 August. All feedback will be considered by Council prior to formal adoption of the Governance Rules.

The Draft Governance Rules and a document summarising amendments is available from Council’s website

E orts to realign underground services for stormwater and water supply are ongoing, ensuring a more e cient and reliable infrastructure system. Simultaneously, preparations are underway for the installation of shelter and BBQ facilities, which will create inviting spaces for social gatherings and leisure activities within the community. Works have also commenced to establish the wombat crossing on Kelly Street, contributing to enhanced pedestrian safety and tra c management in the area. The project is on track for completion late 2023.

Unit controller in training Nathan Rogers.

Aaron Lancaster and daughter Heide.

SES volunteers demonstrate road crash rescue techniques at Sunday’s open day. LH PHOTO

Donations putting life into community garden vision

WORK is expected to start soon on excavation work preparing pathways at Boort District Health’s community garden.

CEO Donna Doyle said recent donations had assisted with development of the project.

“BDH have been incredibly fortunate to receive donations from Loddon Shire Council which is being used to install automated watering systems to the raised garden beds and from the Boort Grain Co-Op which is contributing to the procurement

of the timber garden bridge,” Donna said.

“It is hoped that some excavation work will commence shortly to level out the area in readiness for the perimeter pathways.”

Donna said work was currently being led by the Boort District Health consumer advisory committee.

“And we would be very excited to welcome any new community members who are interested in being involved in the development,” she said.

Pirate frolics coming to local stage

GILBERT and Sullivan Opera Victoria kicks off its season of The Pirates of Penzance in Inglewood next week.

The Gilbert and Sullivan operetta will play at the town hall before performances in Gippsland and a three-night season in Melbourne.

And GSOV secretary Sarah Berry says fans will be in for a treat when the lighthearted farce hits the stage.

“The Pirates of Penzance follows a group of English peers of the realm who decide to become pirates and then take on an apprentice, Frederic, by mistake,” she said.

“Frederic does his duty by the pirates until he turns 21, when he informs his former master, the Pirate King, that it will now be his duty to hunt them until they are wiped from the earth! Follow the mayhem as he joins a nervous band of policemen to clash with the gung-ho pirates.

“To add further confusion and complication, Frederic also falls in love with Ma-

bel, daughter of Major-General Stanley, but the small print of his indenture papers puts the wedding plans of the happy couple into utter disarray.”

Director Rod Pidcock said: “I am treating this current production in a more light-hearted manner.”

St Patricks Primary School Pyramid Hill students and staff were among visitors to Yung Balug Aboriginal Artefacts Museum keeping place in Boort last week. Tour groups from across northern Victoria have explored the lake’s scarred trees and learnt about keeping place artefacts from Paul Haw during recent visits.

An artist impression of Boort District Health’s community garden.

Boarding for Inglewood for the start of Gilbert and Sullivan’s season of Pirates of Penzance.

Young auctioneers will lock horns

JAMES Wilson and Will Holt have often gone headto-head on Loddon football fields.

Now they will face off against each other in October’s Victorian Young Auctioneer Competition where the winner and runner-up head to the Australian Livestock and Property Agents Association national competition at the Sydney Royal Easter Show in April.

The local pair were selected for the Victorian final after attending an ALPA auctioneers’ school last month.

Wedderburns’s Will works with Bendigo’s McKean McGregor, going into the stock and station industry after finishing school three years ago.

“The school was a great week for networking and growing skills to be better at selling ... clearing sales, cattle sales,” he said.

“We worked on our voice and also going into the

nitty gritty of covering GST, terms, protocols and reserve items at auctions.”

Will has had the gavel in his hand at Bendigo sheep markets and says the aim is always to get the best possible price.

“You can draft the sheep but when you act as auctioneer yourself, it’s even more engaging,” he said. James, from Boort, had started university in Melbourne but deferred after being offered a traineeship with Rodwells six years ago.

Now part of Nutrien, James is selling sheep at Bendigo every Monday. “I love the diversity. No two selling days are the same as you strive to achieve the best outcome for clients. It’s not just livestock, the markets are farmers’ livelihoods and an extra $2 for each sheep adds up for them.”

“Will and I have played a fair bit of football against each other. Now were going for a new prize,” he said.

Bendigo Sheep & Lamb Market Report

High-quality heavy lambs and trade lambs remained firm, while those lacking bloom and fat cover saw minimal demand. Heavy sheep were significantly cheaper.

Heavy Lambs $174 $4.70-5.20Firm

Trade Lambs $110-150 $4.80-5.20Firm

Store Lambs $40-90 $2 (liveweight)- $5

Heavy Sheep $66-95 $2.50 - $20

Trade Sheep $60-80 $2.40-2.80Firm

Light Sheep $30-50 $2.50-2.80- $10

To discuss the marketing opportunities available for your livestock, contact the McKean McGregor team.

SHEEP

THERE was a modest lift in lamb numbers to 7200 head, up 1000, at Bendigo on Monday.

More heavy fed lambs were offered compared to a week ago, however the overall yarding remained fairly plain and showing the affects of winter.

In a repeat of recent weeks not all buyers operated fully, the positive being more activity from a key domestic order. Prices were cheaper, but noting Bendigo was one of the stronger performing sales early last week before the market dropped away.

The best export lambs were around $5 easier, while other categories lost $10 and more. An estimated range of 470c to 520c/ kg covered most of the better slaughter lambs, which means the sale was no worse than the rates being quoted at several markets late last week.

This Bendigo sale had its first pen of new season lambs, the small lot estimated at 21-22kg cwt and selling for $126. Heavy export lambs $140 to a top of $174 for fed lambs in excess of 36kg cwt. Just six pens sold above $160/head. Heavy lambs, 2630kg cwt, $124 to $147 and heavy trades $124 to $140.

The general run of medium trades $100 to $125, but there was pens that lacked fat cover or in untidy skins which were pulled below $100. Competition for light lambs remains fickle and the price spread was $13 to $80 over most. Sheep supply nearly doubled off a low base to 3350

head. Mutton was cheaper across all weights and grades.

Heavy crossbred ewes $60 to $108 and Merino wethers to $100. General run of sheep $40 to $75 at an estimated 220-280c/kg cwt. A restocker purchased some Dorper ewes.

CROSSBRED LAMBS G & J Leed Pyramid Hill (72) $174. R Caldwell Bunnaloo (83) $164. M & M Ryan Kilmore (36) $160. M & S Trewick Elmore (15) $158. G & J Leed Pyramid Hill (85) $158. Tranton Inv Underra (41) $154. P & T Colvin Powlett Plains (46) $168. A & T Cole Neilborough (38) $164. R & H Last Fiery Flat (31) $154. E & J Mead Wycheproof (67) $150. S & R Snelson Tongala (81) $150. F & M Schmidt Pyramid Hill (90) $154. A & C Dalyrmple Narrewillock (102) $145. R Turner Spring Hill (116) $145. Hopeavon P/L Kurting (52) $142. B & E Wilson Kurting (51) $142.

MERINO LAMBS

Hacon Past Wanganella (101) $70.

CROSSBRED EWES

GK & TA Turnbull Bridgewater (70) $80. F Stewart Colbinabbin (14) $72. C Howell Molka (69) $63. P Flanagan Coimadai (3) $63.

MERINO EWES

WE Boyd Burkes Flat (73) $80. Boyd Family Trust Boort (10) $74.

Order of sales next week: McKean McGregor, Nuttall, Nutrien, Nevins, Elders.

GRAIN

Boort Grain Co-op prices Monday.

Wheat – H1 $380.25 FIS . H2 $362 FIS. APW1 $350.25 FIS. ASW $350.25 FIS. AGP1 $339 FIS. SFW1 $359 FIS. FED1 $310 FIS.

Barley - Bar1 $295 FIS. Bar2 $260 FIS. Bar3 $245 FIS. Bar4 $242 FIS. Faba1 $385 FIS. Faba2 $385 FIS. Oats1: $315 FIS. Oats2 $270 FIS.

James Wilson

Will Holt

United rural voice needed ‘to get message across’

THE agricultural community needed unity to lobby government, Victorian Farmers’ Federation Wedderburn branch president Graham Nesbit said last week.

Mr Nesbit had just returned from the VFF annual conference where farmers voted to reject State Government plans for the VNI West transmission line project.

But the conference was overshadowed by an ongoing constitutional brawl that has seen a move for a spill of board positions rejected.

Egg council president Meg Parkinson, grains council president Craig Henderson and livestock council vice-president Peter Star last week resigned from the board.

Mr Nesbit said VNI West and road funding were major issues for the region that required advocacy from a united VFF.

St Arnaud branch’s two motions on VNI West received unanimous endorsement at the conference.

Gerald Feeny told delegates the transmission line plan did not link into regional grids and would provide no benefit to farms, industry and communities.

The branch labelled VNI West as a national project “purposely

designed as a one-way path to cater for city power needs”.

“Country communities are expected to carry the environmental and agricultural damage to our land from this infrastructure and yet gain no advantage in electricity supply for our towns and industry,” delegates were told.

The conference also voted to reject fast-tracking of VNI West until the State Government gave assurances on insurance liability and fire safety and that “farmers will not be left exposed to physical, financial and legal risk”.

Wedderburn branch member and volunteer firemen Ian Gould raised fire safety with CFA chiefs after the Woosang brigade annual meeting earlier this year.

The CFA said at the time it expected to be part of future technical reference groups established by Australian Energy Market Operator for VNI West.

Mr Nesbit the state of local roads could become worse with a greater transmission to electric vehicles.

“At the moment, fuel excise is paid and used to build roads,” he said.

“What’s going to be happening in 10, 15 or 20 years times ... the real impact will be on regional roads.

“Local government in ham-

strung because its funding comes from the State Government.

“We have to bridge the gap of understanding between rural areas and the Government. If the VFF can’t, then who will?”

Mr Nesbit said the communication would be key in the organisational reform of the VFF that included greater efficiencies with an end to duplication of some activities between commodity divisions.

Wedderburn branch is the most active VFF presence in the Loddon Shire.

Mr Nesbit said some farmers had chosen to not be involved in the state body.

“They are sitting and watching what VFF does, we need them to be part of the organisation and contributing to the work,” he said.

“The time to contribute is now. We have issues and challenges that need a united voice taking our concerns to all sides of politics.”

Mr Nesbit said while roads was the No 1 priority, weed and pest control, labour shortages and housing were also pressing issues.

“As a united organisation, we can get in the door (of decision makers) and inform people,” he said.

Victorian Merino Field Day has local studs on top mat

TERRICK West Poll Merino Stud has taken out the Victorian champion hogget ewe of the year for a second year.

The top award was claimed at last Friday’s Victorian Merino Field Day and follows success for the Prairie West stud at the Australian Sheep and Wool Show.

Terrick West was placed second in the pen of three rams and finished in the top five for the

champion ram hogget. The ram prize was won by Glen Donald Stud, Nhill, from John Humbert’s Kedleston Park at Calivil Longdale Park, Berrimal, was named the day’s best exhibitor.

The Loddon ram sale season start next Friday.

Terrick West will be the first of more than six on-property sales across the region throughout August and September.

Top award for Terrick West Stud at Victoria Merino Field Day.

Foothpath works on way

By Cr LINDA JUNGWIRTH

LODDON Shire is very active at the moment. We are currently producing a flood recovery newsletter each fortnight - we have held many free, fun events as part of our flood recovery.

Tomorrow night there will be a free dinner in Bridgewater. David Younger will be speaking at the event. David is a natural disaster recovery and preparedness consultant. Many in our community were negatively impacted by the floods, some are struggling with post-traumatic stress, and many people are still dealing with the impact the floods had on their farms and homes.

Others may be wondering about the future and whether they will be prepared if flooding occurs again. If you were impacted by the flooding in any way, please come along to hear David speak.

In Tarnagulla Ward news, a shelter and barbecue have been established in Progress Park, Newbridge. Once the electrician connects the barbecue it will be available for everyone.

long overdue unfortunately as we’ve had trouble engaging contractors. In the meantime, I’d like to update you on the plans.

The good news is the final three projects are in this financial year’s budget. The sections due for renewal are

z Project 1, currently under contract for delivery, between Poverty Street and Wayman Street –Westside

z Project 2, between Poverty Street and Wayman Street – Eastside

z Project 3, between Poverty Street and King Street – Westside

z Project 4, between Poverty Street and King Street – Eastside

The last three projects are scheduled for this financial year and are yet to be contracted.

1. Eddie McGuire is the host of which TV quiz show?

2. Who invented the telephone?

3. How many valves does the heart have?

4. What is a baby goat called?

5. Brie cheese is originally from which country?

6. The 2024 Olympic Games are set to be held in which city?

7. What is the proper name for the funny bone?

8. The hummingbird is the only bird which can fly in which direction?

14. What is the collective noun for a group of jellyfish?

15. Blue Ribbon Sports was the original name for which well-known sporting brand?

16. How many countries in the world begin with the letter Z?

Card cut hits veterans

I’d like to thank the community members who were involved in establishing this project as a priority for residents and hope the barbecue provides hours of enjoyment.

In Tarnagulla we are waiting on contractors to complete some footpath projects. Project one is

YOUR ONLINE WORDS

Newbridge residents will have noticed an extension to their footpath to provide better access for residents with mobility issues. Eddington has a new septic tank and disposal field at the public hall and the current budget includes a project to seal the Tarnagulla Community Centre car park.

Closure of Bendigo Bank’s Pyranid Hill agency brings thanks for manager Mark

Lacey

Jean Mann wrote: You will be greatly missed Mark. What a champion you have been for our town. Thank you.

Cindi Newton wrote: Thank you Mark, good luck with your next adventure.

Cheryl Bartels wrote: Thank you Mark for your wonderful service over the years.

Tania Quinn wrote: Thank you Mark. All the best for whatever comes your way.

The Railway Hotel BOORT

9. Who was King Henry VIII’s last wife?

10. What is the longest river in the world?

11. In which sport do you use a shuttlecock?

12. What is a monotreme?

13. And which two animals are the only living members of the monotreme family?

17. Freddie Mercury was the lead singer of which rock band?

18. Who voices Woody in the Toy Story series of movies?

19. What happened to Pinocchio every time he lied?

20. On average, which planet is closest to Earth?

ANSWERS

YOUR

VOICE IN PARLIAMENT

We are family, friends, colleagues and neighbours

We are family, friends, colleagues and neighbours

We are family, friends, colleagues and neighbours

The coronavirus pandemic has had a profound impact on all our lives so looking after your mental wellbeing is essential. It is normal to feel anxious, stressed and fearful during times of crisis. The Federal Government is providing support for the mental health and wellbeing of Australians as we face the challenges of the pandemic; go to www.headtohealth.gov.au if you feel like you might need some additional help coping with anxiety and worry about Coronavirus.

— but most of all we are a community. coping

The coronavirus pandemic has had a profound impact on all our lives so looking after your mental wellbeing is essential. It is normal to feel anxious, stressed and fearful during times of crisis. The Federal Government is providing support for the mental health and wellbeing of Australians as we face the challenges of the pandemic; go to www.headtohealth.gov.au if you feel like you might need some additional help coping with anxiety and worry about Coronavirus.

If you need advice or assistance with anything related to government, or in your general day-to-day life, please contact my of ce on the details below and we will do our best to help

The coronavirus pandemic has had a profound impact on all our lives so looking after your mental wellbeing is essential. It is normal to feel anxious, stressed and fearful during times of crisis. The Federal Government is providing support for the mental health and wellbeing of Australians as we face the challenges of the pandemic; go to www.headtohealth.gov.au if you feel like you might need some additional help coping with anxiety and worry about Coronavirus.

your general day-to-day life, please contact my of ce on the details below and we will do our best to help you.

For the latest Coronavirus information go to peterwalsh.org.au or follow us on

We are in this together, and together we will get through.

For the latest Coronavirus information go to peterwalsh.org.au or follow us on

of We are in this together, and together we will get through.

1. Who Wants to Be a Millionaire 2. Alexander Graham Bell

Four

Kid

France

Paris 7. Humerus 8. Backwards 9. Catherine Parr 10. Nile River

11. Badminton 12. Egg-laying mammals 13. Echidna and Platypus

A bloom

Nike

Two – Zambia, Zimbabwe

Tom Hanks

His nose grew longer

Mercury.

If you need advice or assistance with anything related to government, or in your general day-to-day life, please contact my of ce on the details below and we will do our best to help you.

you.

*LindaJungwirthistheLoddonShire’s TarnagullaWardcouncillor

DOORS CLOSE AT BUCKRABANYULE FOR THE LAST TIME

Goodbye, dear old hall

SITTING in a paddock metres from the railway line is a hall that’s been the centre of community for 114 years.

Christmas trees, school concerts, farewelling soldiers and welcoming back those fortunate to physically survive the trauma of wars.

Euchre nights, badminton games and important celebrations like the arrival of electricity in the 1960s.

Heather Hargreaves had grown up in the Buckrabanyule district where the local hall was the centre of social life.

It’s where Heather had her kitchen tea in 1964 and on Sunday, she returned for a final time.

“I came here for a fancy dress night, too. Mum made me an outfit of a black cat, wire making the tail stand up ... I would have been about five years old,” she said.

Heather’s happy memories were among hundreds shared in the hall that started life as Buckrabanyule Mechanics’ Institute, Free Library and Agricultural Hall in 1909, renamed memorial hall when men, and Nurse Douglass, returned from World War One a decade later.

A century on, upkeep of the hall has become too costly for a diminishing committee, some now living well outside the district as they retire to be closer to services.

Russell Round, now a resident of Wycheproof, was 47 years secretary of the committee and he will remain a member until the keys are formally handed back to the Department of Environment, Energy and Climate Change.

Russell was one of the key organisers of a back-to in 1986. He told of the World War Two years when there were Saturday night dances and euchre evenings.

“It was our hub ... in the early days we had a creamery, a grain shed, school and more in Buckrabanyule.”

Bill Freeman moved to the district 37 years ago when he bought the old school site.

By CHRIS EARL

For most of that time since, he has been treasurer of the hall committee, although now living in Charlton.

He said closure of the hall was an unfortunate reality.

Russell Round’s son Ken grew up attending functions in the weatherboard hall that was extended after World War Two and given a makeover for the big back-to.

“There were the euchre nights and as kids we would be running around ... there were great suppers.”

Hall committee secretary Gunta Bisenieks earlier said use of the hall had decreased since the new fire station was built on the adjoining block.

On Sunday, Gunta was absorbing the stories of more than 50 people who returned for one last look inside the hall and then adjourned, in time-honoured country fashion, for afternoon tea in the more commodious fire station. There, old photographs had been neatly displayed on tables to trigger another flood of memories and stories.

And gratitude for the countless hours put in by volunteers over the decades.

Gunta was handing out a history brochure of the hall that captured a sense of appreciation for all the working bees held to keep the hall doors open.

“The hall has been polished, dusted, swept, mopped and wiped down. The Buckrabanyule Hall committee members and community attended to the welfare of the hall with enthusiasm and dedication.

“In many instances personal donations of money, goods or services were made. We thank all those people past and present for their efforts. They expanded the potential of the hall for the community and also ensured the hall was maintained and looked its best for any event.”

The hall’s future is unknown.

DEECA says: ““The Buckrabanyule Memorial Hall Incorporated committee has indicated they wish to stop managing the Hall. DEECA is working with the committee regarding a formal handover.”

And the State Government department this week added its voice of appreciation to local volunteers over more than a century.

“DEECA thanks the commit-

tee for the significant effort and time they’ve dedicated to the hall over the years.”

However, the hall, metres from a railway line that acts as the boundary of the Loddon Shire, had the most important farewell on Sunday.

Again, Gunta’s tribute sums up local feeling: “The Buckrabanyule Memorial Hall has sustained the community throughout the good and bad times.

“It has been a cornerstone of the district and served the local generations well. We hope that those who have a connection to the hall will retain fond memories of their time spent there long after the hall is gone.”

And keeping sentinel at the hall gates to generations of memories, for now will be memorial plinths to those from the district who served in two World Wards.

Bill Freeman, Colin and Joy Stewart at the final of Buckrabanyule Hall. LH PHOTOS

Gunta Bisenieks and Bill Fitzpatrick

Anna Round, June Frankhum, Beth Crutch, Joy Freeman and Phyllis Fitzgerald Heather Hargreavces and Clem Fitzgerald

Una and Ken Round (left) and Russell Round who served for 47 years and secretary (rght).

Expressions of Interest

DISPOSAL – UTILITY VEHICLE, TRAILER AND LANDSCAPE MAINTENANCE PACKAGE

Loddon Shire Council is seeking expressions of interest from the public to purchase a landscape maintenance package which includes 2018 Ford Ranger Ute, single axle 10 x 6 foot tipper trailer and a complete set of landscaping maintenance equipment. This equipment was used by Council’s Community Care property maintenance team.

The vehicle and equipment can be viewed at the Loddon Shire Depot at Ridge Street, Wedderburn at the following times:

Wednesday 2 August 2023 – between 3.45 – 5.00pm

Monday 7 August 2023 – between 3.45pm – 5.00pm

Interested parties are to register at the Depot O ce on arrival. The package will be sold as a single package and will not be separated.

Copies of the equipment list, photos and EOI response form can be downloaded from Council’s website: https://www.loddon.vic.gov.au/News-and-public-notices/Public-notices

For enquiries or to request a printed copy of the documents please contact Lisa Dunn on (03) 5494 1200 during business hours.

Expressions of interest close 5.00pm Friday 11 August, 2023.

Notification by Buyer Intention to Apply for the Permanent Transfer of a Licence to Take and Use Surface Water

GMW Reference No: BPTWE0014-23

Sawers Farms Pty Ltd of Loddon River Road

APPIN SOUTH VIC 3579

Refer to VicRoads Map: 29 E2 (ed. 8)

Intend to make two (2) applications to Permanently Transfer Entitlement to our existing Licence to Take & Use Surface water and increase the licensed volume from 120.0ML/Year x 2

The water will be used for the purpose of: Irrigation

To be used on lands described as

Volume Folio Lot No Plan No Plan Type Parish 11941 719 2 807523T PS Leaghur

Any person able to demonstrate that their interests will be affected by the issuing of this Licence including any intended groundwater use, is invited to make a written submission (via post, email or fax) setting out the nature of the impact within 14 days of receipt of this written notification. Late submissions will not be considered.

To make a submission please read the information available for download from https://www.g-mwater. com.au/customer-services/forms refer to the Groundwater section (or contact GMW to arrange for a copy to be posted you). Submissions must be lodged in writing using the template available by either mail or email to Customer Support Coordinator, Licensing Administration, PO Box 165, TATURA VIC 3516 or email licensingadmin@gmwater.com.au

2024 Australia Day Awards

Loddon Shire Council 2024 Australia Day Awards nominations are now open. These awards acknowledge outstanding individuals and community groups within the Loddon Shire in the following categories:

 Citizen of the Year

 Young Citizen of the Year

 Community Group/Event of the Year Council is also now receiving Community Service Award nominations for each of the ve Council wards.

Nomination forms for each category, including important information regarding award eligibility and criteria, and the selection process are available on Council’s website, www.loddon.vic.gov.au.

Alternatively, email a request for further information to australiaday@loddon.vic.gov.au.

Nominations for all awards close on Friday 20 October 2023.

Diploma (AQF Level 5) Consul�ng Arborist

 Tree Assessments – Health, Condi�on and Risk etc.

 Arborist Reports – Management Plans, Development etc.

 Tree Inventories – GIS Mapping, Data Collec�on etc.

Contact Heath Bambrough

h.bambrough@outlook.com 0431 245 131

Careers at Loddon

Loddon Shire Council is seeking applications for the following positions from highly motivated, enthusiastic, energetic and outcome focused individuals who want to make a di erence and help shape our future.

Tractor Operator - Loddon Plainsref.J/227

 Full-time, permanent position, working a 9-day fortnight

 Loddon Plains team, northern end of the shire

 TOCOM - $64,890.28 per annum plus employer superannuation

Applications for the position above will close on Monday 14 August 2023 at 5pm. For further information, including a detailed position description and details on how to apply, please visit Council’s website www.loddon.vic.gov.au or contact Council’s Organisation Development Unit on (03) 5494 1200.

WANTED

Old bottles with town or company names.

Marble bottles, Ginger Beer, Milk

ONLINE AUCTION

Sale by Online Auction –Caravan Park Cabins

Council is offering for sale by Online Auction, four caravan park cabins. The cabins are located at the Wedderburn Caravan Park, 61 Hospital Street Wedderburn with inspection by appointment only. To arrange an inspection call 54943301.

Cabins are to be removed at purchasers cost and are required to be removed by 1 September 2023.

The Cabins are listed with Manheim, bidding start date is Friday 4 August 2023 at 10am and end date Wednesday 9 August at 5pm.

Details of the online auction can be found at: https://www.manheim.com.au /trucks-machinery/auctions/CG0823/ page1?franchiseID=NCG

Stock numbers, 6721071, 6721077, 6721080 and 6721082.

Champions find their right bias

WEDDERBURN’S Bob Nichol and Margaret Bentley have taken out the 2023 North Central Bias Bowls Association doubles championship. Club champions from Boort, Wedderburn, St Arnaud and Charlton contested the doubles in Boort on Sunday. St Ar-

naud’s Flo Andison won the singles title at Charlton last week while triples were to be played in Wedderburn last night with the rinks event on Sunday in St Arnaud. The Boort club will host its annual tournament on August 20 with 22 teams from across Victoria already entered.

AMERICAN rally champion Rhiannon Gelsomino has been back on home Loddon soil conducting training courses for Australian drivers. Joining her in the driver’s seat for the latest sessions is husband Alex, the pair swapping summer in North American for an Australian winter. LH PHOTO

Phyllis McEwen, Helen Ward, Pam Kelly and Bev Taig take a break from catering at the Inglewood golf tournament to display prizes for Sunday’s 27-hole event. LH PHOTO

Tournament has big local flavour

INGLEWOOD Golf Club held its 103rd annual tournament over the past week.

The club reported good fields that saw club members among the major prizes.

A Grade - 27 holes: D. Vanston 128-8-109 from H. Lee 128-10113. AM 18: J. Curnick 72-3-69 from D. Vanston 78-8-70. PM 9: R. Hart 39-34 from J. Curnick 39-37.5.

B Grade - 27 holes: P. Phillipson 135-14-114 from R. Thouliss 138-15-115.5. AM 18: L Jackson 87-19-68 from Mick Smith 8712-75. PM 9: L. Jackman 44-33.5.

Men’s four-ball best-ball - A Grade: David Vanston & Rob Stranger (45) from Huhn Lee and Ron Hart (41)

Great effort from Huhn, being the first time he has played a sandscrapes course. Huhn said he enjoyed the challenge.

B Grade: Trevor Eiffert and Dennis Cooper (41) on countback from David Patterson and Nathan Joyner.

Nearest the pins: David Patterson, Roger Baker.

PYRAMID HILL

A President (Steve Marshall) v Captain (Jason Deller) event was held on Sunday.

The two teams went well and played a stableford round with the collective scores determining the winning team.

This year the Presidents team won by seven points.

Winner of the stableford round was Maree Ring with 35 points and runner up was Steve Marshall with 34 points.

Nearest the pin on hole 16 was Don Stewart.

The club’s tournament starts next Friday.

NORTH CENTRAL JUNIORS

GOALS - Birchip Watchem: W. Ryan 3, A. Tyler 2, O. Cook, J. Knights, C. Daniel, D. Coffey. Wedderburn: T. Clarke 3, B. Mansell, B. Cunningham.

- Birchip Watchem: M. Field, J. Saggers, J. McAuliffe. Wedderburn: C. Gault, A. Roberts, W. Huismann, T. Clarke,

AFL CENTRAL VICTORIA

GOALS - Inglewood: L. Harris 3, Z. Joyner 2, M. Jeffrey, T. Murphy, E. McCoy, W. Schepers. East Loddon: J. Rasmussen, T. Rasmussen.

BEST - Inglewood: J. Wendels, K. McClellan, O. Mathews, W. Schepers, R. Smith, Z. Joyner. East Loddon: N. Ramskill, T. Rasmussen, T. Harcourt, J. Diss.

Rams hit with match day injuries

INJURIES to key players in the first half depleted East Loddon Rams in Saturday’s AFL Central Victoria clash with Inglewood.

Already without several players after non-football injuries, the Rams were deprived of the on-field efforts of Jye Rasmussen, Flynn Clymo

and Jaxon Addlem and had numbers bumped up by spare Blues in the second half.

Inglewood won by 46 points with Jaspa Wendels being named the best. Ramskill, Tyler Rasmussen, Tom Hacourt and Diss were best for the Rams.

Sea Lake Nandaly 48, Donald 48, Boort 36, Charlton 32, St Arnaud 24, Nullawil 20, Birchip Watchem 20, Wycheproof Narraport 8, Wedderburn 4.

GOALS - Birchip Watchem: J. Woods 4, C. Frank, C. Boyle, N. Dean 2, J. Knights, H. Cook, C. Daniel, K. Hamilton, B. Kemp, J. Daniel. Wedderburn: O. Huismann.

BEST - Birchip Watchem: C. Frank, R. Hogan, J. Woods, A. Dean. Wedderburn : R. Whyman, T. Blair, W. Cunningham.

GOALS - Pyramid Hill: J. Peter. Marong: Z. Conroy 10, S. Taylor, K. McCaig 3, B. Rogers, K. Thomson, L. Rielley, H. Bourke 2, L. Hale, J. Bird, H. Roberts, H. Mannix, K. Terrill.

BEST - Pyramid Hill: H. Goodes, C. McCoy, R. Hutton, J. Clough-Fidler, X. Emmerson, T. Fernandez. Marong: Z. Justice, Z. Conroy, K. Thomson, L. Rielley, R. Kerr, K. Terrill.

THIS WEEK

Marong v Bridgewater at Malone Park

v Pyramid Hill at Mitiamo Inglewood bye

Nathan Joyner and Graeme Rowland at Inglewood’s tournament. LH PHOTO

Ron Thoullis was runner-up in the B Grade 27-hole event. LH PHOTO

Club secretary David Vanston had a successful tournament. LH PHOTO

East Loddon’s Mitchell Hancock. LH PHOTO

NORTH CENTRAL Bulls throw race wide open

BIRCHIP Watchem has signalled it’s in the mix for North Central A Grade netball honours this season.

A week after Wedderburn knocked off previously undefeated Boort, the Redbacks lowered their colours to a better finishing Birchip Watchem,

The Redbacks dominated play in the first term, outscoring the home side two to one before Birchip started to bridge the gap.

The margin was down to just four goals at the final break before the Bulls piled on 14 goals in the last term of the thriller.

Courtney Gleeson and Tess Jackson were best for Wedderburn.

The loss has seen Wedderburn drop to third spot on the ladder.

Birchip Watchem also took honours in B Grade where the margin was two goals.

Best for Wedderburn were Ingrid Gould and Charlotte Verley.

14 AND UNDER A

Birchip

C GRADE

20, 30, 44, 61, (61) d Wycheproof Narraport 4, 8, 9, 14, (14). Sea Lake Nandaly 14, 23, 30, 39, (39) d Charlton 7, 15, 20, 27, (27). St Arnaud 6, 11, 17, 23, (23) lost to Donald 14, 33, 43, 60, (60). Birchip Watchem d

LODDON VALLEY

Superoos look set for double chance

REIGNING premiers Maiden

Gully broke clear of Pyramid Hill after quarter time to win the A Grade clash by 16 goals.

Bridgewater has kept its slim finals hopes alive with a win over Bears Lagoon Serpentine.

And Mitiamo boosted its percentage with a win over Calivil, virtually locking in the double chance.

Newbridge remains in the five after shaking off a determined Inglewood in the second half of their match.

13 AND UNDER Bridgewater 5, 17, 21, 26, (26) d Bears

Serpentine 4, 4, 7, 11, (11). Calivil d

B GRADE

11, 28, 44, 55, (55) d Wycheproof

11, 19, 23, 29, (29). Sea Lake Nan-

6, 13, 23, 34, (34) d Charlton 10, 15, 17, 24, (24). St Arnaud 10, 17, 21, 30, (30) lost to

43, 55, (55).Birchip Watchem

NORTH CENTRAL HOCKEY

Laura

(above) sends Mitiamo into the scoring zone against Calivil while Carly Scholes (below) looks for options around the ring. LH PHOTO

Bad start has Redbacks behind eight ball all day

WEDDERBURN capitalised when kicking to the scoring end in Saturday’s North Central encounter against reigning premiers Birchip Watchem.

But a scoreless opening term that had the Redbacks playing catch-up all day was the difference on the scoreboard. The Bulls had numbers around the ball as Wedderburn was quickly shown what happens when you give the team sitting second on the ladder, and finding peak form at the right time, any slack.

Birchip also highlighted a lack of depth that has hindered Wedderburn in an injury-hit season. Saturday’s line-up was the first unchanged Redbacks’ team selection in consecutive weeks for the first time in three seasons.

As coach Sam Barnes said after the game: “The result sums up our season ... we can get close but not close enough for the four points.”

Wedderburn leaked too many goals against the polished Bulls who worked the ball well between arcs and made the most of their chances to score goals.

A five-goal opening term onslaught put all the pressure on Wedderburn. Edwards was on his way to kicking seven for the day and would have support from Gordon and rover Nick Rippon who caused havoc all day and earned the Bulls’ top award, sharing honours with key forwards.

A strong fightback by Wedderburn in

the second term where Hargreaves continued making his presence felt in the ruck and Tom Campbell again proving himself a vital cog, gave the Redbacks confidence to change their game plan for the second half.

And it worked. Birchip’s flankers and pockets were drawn away from the intercepts and Wedderburn was increasingly able to control the ball instead seeing it blocked in.

The forward structure change gave Wedderburn six scoring shots for three goals at the non-favoured end.

Still trailing by six goals, Wedderburn made the most final quarter opportunities with an accurate 3.1 while holding the Bulls to 1.2.

Coach Barnes would again end the day with four goals while Benaim and Rosengren contributed two each.

Robert Whyman continues to make the most of his senior selection, bobbing up for another goal at the weekend.

Darcy Jackson, in his 100th game, was also in the Redbacks best.

There’s a good half-dozen in the making

JAYDEN Jones is tipped to play his first game in more than a month when Wedderburn takes on St Arnaud in Saturday’s North Central clash at Donaldson Park.

The defender’s inclusion will boost a battle-hardened backline that has worked overtime since he last lined up back in round 10 against Charlton, stringing together several weeks in the Redbacks’ best.

Jones will cover the unavailability of

Jacob DeAraugo as the Redbacks eye their sixth win of a difficult season.

Wedderburn won their earlier encounter against the Saints by 62 points. Coach Sam Barnes kicked four goals and in better form now, should be a focal point on Saturday.

The Redbacks at home can extend that round seven margin and create a springboard for the final rounds of the season that will see them fitted against finals’

IN FRONT OF GOAL SENIORS

27 - (1) - Daniel Castellano - Birchip Watchem

25 - (2) - Will Simpson - Sea Lake Nandaly RESERVES

44 - (5) - Billy Poulton - Sea Lake Nandaly

34 - (0) - Patrick O’Rourke - Boort

34 - (3) - Callum Goode - Birchip Watchem

32 - (0) - Ben Brennan - Wycheproof N

SENIORS

GOALS - Sea Lake Nandaly: B. McInnes 5, T. McKenzie, T. Cox 3, B. Delmenico, W. Simpson 2, C. Cox, C. Michael, C. Noonan, B. Weir, T. Donnan, J. Summerhayes. Charlton: N. Thompson 4, C. Gavaghan 2, M. Heenan, J. Carey.

BEST - Sea Lake Nandaly: T. Cox, B. McInnes, T. McKenzie, C. Noonan, K. Donnan, L. Martin. Charlton: J. Taylor, D. McCallum, C. Fitzpatrick, N. Thompson, K. Clifford, H. Taylor.

GOALS - St Arnaud: K. Torney, J. Male. Donald: S. Dunstan 9, J. Wallin 2, K. Green, H. Geddes, J. Potter, R. McGough, R. Young, N. Berry, J. Papalia.

BEST - St Arnaud: D. Gifford, H. Durward, J. Male, S. Elliott, M. Goode, Z. MacDonald. Donald: R. Young, S. Dunstan, H. Geddes, J. Wall, J. Wallin, D. Bell-Warren.

GOALS - Birchip Watchem: B. Edwards 7, N. Gordon 4, N. Rippon 2, D. Castellano, B. Hogan. Wedderburn: S. Barnes 4, D. Benaim, J. Rosengren 2, R. Whyman, J. Lockhart, L. Holt.

BEST - Birchip Watchem: N. Rippon, M. Rippon, B. Edwards, N. Gordon, D. Hinkley, C. Williams. Wedderburn: T. Campbell, J. Hargreaves, J. Rosengren, J. McEwen, M. McEwen, D. Jackson. Nullawil 4.6 7.9 11.11

(48) GOALS - Nullawil: D. Smith 5, A. Oberdorfer 3, L. Caccaviello 2, Z. Caccaviello, A. Casey, J. Humphreys. Wycheproof Narraport: M. Beckmans 3, B. Fraser, C. Green, R. Allan, B. Bish.

BEST - Nullawil: D. Smith, A. Hogan, P. Kelly, M. Quigley, D. Isbister, A. Casey. Wycheproof Narraport: D. McLennan, R. Allan, K. McNicol, L. Van Schaik, J. Bateson, J. Walsh

bound Nullawil and the undefeated Sea Lake Nandaly. Boort is back from the bye this weekend and faces the Birchip Watchem in what will be another tough day for the Pies. The bye should have given healing time for the long list of injuries.

Training tonight will determine just how many are ready to return although the Pies will be without key players from the earlier encounter with Birchip.

IN FRONT OF GOAL

LODDON HERALD TIPS

Wedderburn v St Arnaud

Boort v Birchip Watchem

Donald v Nullawil

Wycheproof Narraport v Sea Lake

Nandaly

GOALS - St Arnaud: N. Gorrie 2. Donald: T. Letts, G. Beckham 3, B. Dixon, J. Donnellon 2, J. Lewis, J. Adams, D. Gowlett.

- St Arnaud: R. Kirk, N. Gorrie, H. Knights, R. Burke, H. Darby, C. Snell. Donald: B. Dixon, J. Dixon, N. Clark, S. Sellick, D. Hawkes, D. Gowlett.

GOALS - Nullawil: L. Braine, N. Williams, J. Taylor 4, M. Poyner 3, M. Barry, J. Perry. Wycheproof Narraport: X. McKersie, W. Allan, T. Trewin.

- Tom Campbell - Wedderburn

27 - (0) - Gedd Hommelhoff - Wycheproof N

Two decades after start of dynasty

TWENTY years on the origins of Loddon Valley football’s first dynasty, players from Calivil’s triple premiership year were re-united on Saturday.

The Demons became the first club in league history to win the senior, reserve and under 17 flags. For the seniors, the victory over Mitiamo was the first of six flags on the trot. Six members of those sides are still taking the field for Calivil - Henry and Walter Miller, Jordan Lea and Dave Dennis and coach Anthony Dennis. The club’s new timekeepers box was officially named in honour of Ossie Wright and Keith Richards during Saturday’s celebrations.

Keith was again on duty to sound the siren on the Demons’ 11-point win over Mitiamo. LH PHOTO

27 - (0) - Sam Goldsmith - Nullawil

25 - (0) - Gerald Riley - Wedderburn

Boort bye

BEST - Nullawil: J. Taylor, N. Williams, J. Barry, J. Bowyer, M. Hogan, M. Barry. Wycheproof Narraport: R. Jones, W. Allan, L. Bish, T. Metcalf, D. Murray, X. McKersie.

Birchip Watchem 3.5 5.10 8.11 9.15 (69)

(2)

- Birchip Watchem: C. Goode 3, M. Love 2, B. Colbert, C. Boyle, B. Baxter, J. Ryan. BEST - Birchip Watchem: J. Ryan, T. Colbert, K. Leith, M. Rickard, C. Goode. Wedderburn Reserves: J. Hayes, D. Keuken, J. Piccoli, A. Younghusband, F. Turnbull, A. Brett.

- Sea Lake Nandaly: B. Poulton 5, D. Hickey, L. McClelland 3, J. Hatcher 2, Z. Martin, R. McGarry.

T. Catherine.

BEST - Sea Lake Nandaly: C. Tait, J. Hatcher, C. Allan, R. McGarry, L. McClelland, C. Elliott. Charlton: T. Catherine, J. Durie, L. Holmes-Brown, A. Soulsby, B. Sexton, H. Bourke.

Jordan Hargreaves

Grand show for old faithfuls

CALIVIL could have had its first goal on the board against Mitiamo within seconds of the opening bounce of their Loddon Valley match on Saturday.

A free kick to coach Anthony Dennis found Patrick Hansford, only for his online punt to be marked on the line.

It was one of several could have beens for the Demons. The one that mattered though was notching up win number three before a crowd that included premiership heroes from two decades ago, former players who had been in the side that downed Mitiamo back in 2003.

Calivil actually had its chances in that opening term of the 2023 encounter to put the game even more out of reach by the first break.

Six behinds were on the scorebord for Calivil. Two goals - Jordan Lea had the first major score, Thomas Piazza punished Mitiamo for a sloppy kick-outshould have been more if not for a bad luck poster and an over-drive Mitiamo defence.

Mitch Avard, Anthony Dennis, Jake Lawry and Jack Maher were ready to block Mitiamo when there was a sniff of heading deep into the forward zone.

Ethan Hocking was regularly charging of defence for Mitiamo, Andrew Cussen and Ross Turner kept the Superoos in the game across the midfield and on the few occasions they went deep into the atacking area.

Mitiamo, without a goal in the opening

Demons’ coach Anthony Dennis was instrumental is setting up Calivil’s solid first half. LH PHOTO

term, quickly made amends in the second quarter.

Both teams had chances to score but it was Waylon Draper who found the opening, kicked down to Mitchell Byrne who goaled for Mitiamo. It would be the Superoos’ only goal of the term.

Mitiamo temporarily swung the game’s momentum in its favour with good tackling. That was lost as play halted when Cody Thompson went down. He would

later return and be named in the Demons’ best.

Calivil regained the initiative, sparked by a 50-metre floater off the boot of Rhys Lourie going straight through the centre of goal.

Daniel Walters, Jessie Hawlings and Hocking battled to keep Mitiamo in touch only to see Calivil finish the second quarter with another four goals.

The third term had Mitiamo clawing its way back into contention.

Lougoon, who had at times been less dominant than recent weeks, and Clohesy had greater control of play as Mitiamo piled on seven goals for the term.

The Superoos were back within five points at the final chance.

But the desire of Calivil to win at home before old flag stars meant the drive and adrelalin was too much for Mitiamo to counter.

z Inglewood’s 44-point victory over Newbridge has sealed the final five.

Wright, Cotchett and Daniel Polack were stars for the Blues in a win set up in the first term when Newbridge was held to just three beginds.

A solid-six goal final term from Inglewood meant it won three of the four quarters - Newbridge had a four-point edge in the third.

Pyramid Hill marked the return of Dylan Collis with a win over Maiden Gully. Perryman and Sheahan each kicked four goals.

Standing tall, Laird drives home hard win

THE dominance of coach Justin Laird proved a major difference when Bears Lagoon Serpentine thwarted comeback attempts by Bridgewater.

A dominant first half had given the Bears a 23-point buffer at the main break. The game was still to be won and the characteristic never-say-die style of play from Bridgewater kept the contest alive for most of the next hour.

The Mean Machine brought the margin back to less than three goals, only to see the Bears respond to every forward drive with a hardened attitude and stronger commitment to win the ball.

And leading by example was Laird. One minute he was winning centre knocks, next at boundary throw-ins and still finding space to win the hard ball and send his Bears deep forward.

z THE 2023 Loddon Valley grand final will be played at Inglewood. The league made an online announcement on Friday night of its venues with the season decider to be confirmed once the fate of Inglewood in the series is known. The first weekend of finals will be at Bridgewater and Newbridge with the semi-finals at Pyramid Hill and Serpentine. Preliminary finals will be at Calivil. z MITIAMO on Tuesday announced the re-appointment of coach Jon Varcoe. “Jon has made an immediate impact to our club this year, both on and off the field,” it said.

SENIORS

Laird set up a crucial goal from James Bailey mid-way through the final term after earlier brushing past Bridgewater defenders to score one of his own two goals for the day.

James Rippendale finished with four goals, one capping off a dynamic passage started by best-on-ground Harry Gadsden who went deep to Andrew Gladman before a chip to the new recruit at Serpentine.

Charlton Hindle and Tyler Estrada vital Bridgewater contributors in the final quarter, particularly when the Mean Machine’s half-back line lifted mid-term.

The final minutes showed how physical this clash had been - players exhausted and some cramping in an encounter that was closer than the 24 points on the scoreboard.

Blues feature in match of round

FINALS-BOUND Inglewood has its last chance for a home ground win in the 2023 Loddon Valley home and away season on Saturday.

The Blues play Pyramid Hill, a side that accounted for the season’s big improvers by 61 points back in May.

Pyramid Hill has since had a slew of injuries hampering consistency and the often-lethal game plan coming out of the Mitchell Park kennel.

But the team is getting back together at just the right time and has assured itself of the double chance in finals.

Inglewood, primed for cutting-edge ac-

IN FRONT OF GOAL

99 - (0) - Brandyn Grenfell - Marong

45 - (0) - Kain Robins - Marong

39 - (0) - Joshua Martyn - Bridgewater

38 - (0) - Ryley Taylor - Marong

34 - (0) - Matthew Riordan - Marong

31 - (2) - Justin Laird - B/L Serpentine

30 - (1) - Andrew Gladman - BL Serpentine

30 - (0) - Charlie McGaw - Inglewood

29 - (0) - Jay Reynolds - Mitiamo

28 - (4) - Will Perryman - Pyramid Hill

SENIORS

GOALS - Newbridge: Not supplied. Inglewood: A. Lowe, D. Polack 3, J. Leach , K. Payne, C. Wright, B. Cotchett, T. Kendal 2, B. Cauchi.

Calivil 2.6 6.8 8.10 10.11 (71) Mitiamo 0.3 1.4 8.5 9.8 (62)

GOALS - Calivil: M. Avard, J. Lawry 2, K. Newton, D. Masson, J. Lea, T. Piazza, C. Thompson, R. Lourie. Mitiamo: K. Galvin, A. Cussen 2, D. Walters, L. Lougoon, R. Varcoe, M. Byrne, B. Baines.

Pyramid Hill

4.2 8.5 9.7 10.11

28 - (2) - Keelan Payne - Inglewood

26 - (1) - Zach Alford - Pyramid Hill

24 - (0) - Bailey George - Pyramid Hill RESERVES

65 - (11) - Rowan Pollock - Pyramid Hill

32 - (0) - Bradley Matthews - Marong

24 - (0) - Clay Anstee - BL Serpentine

23 - (0) - Tucker Thach - Marong Reserves

22 - (1) - Joel Pianto - Mitiamo

21 - (2) - Jayden Gladman - BL Serpentine

tion for the first time in two decades, can use Saturday’s clash to signal intentions over the next month.

The Bulldogs will start favourite, just don’t underestimate the Blues at home.

Bears Lagoon Serpentine may have a few injury niggles this week yet will still be too polished for Mitiamo while Calivil is poised to register its fifth win of the season against Maiden Gully.

And in the final match of the round, Marong comes back from a bye to commence its run into the finals. Bridgewater will be severely tested in all areas by the Panthers.

THIS SATURDAY

LODDON HERALD TIPS

Inglewood v Pyramid Hill

Maiden Gully v Calivil

Mitiamo v Bears Lagoon

Serpentine

Marong v Bridgewater

BL Serpentine 4.1 9.2 11.5 14.10

(94)

BEST - Bridgewater: C. Hindle, Z. Hoiles, H. Donegan, J. Naughton, A. McDowell, E. Pavlich. Bears

Marong 14 14 0 2258 383 589.56 56 Pyramid Hill 14 12 2 1506 834 180.58 48 BL Serpentine 14 10 4 1316 1143 115.14 40 Inglewood 14 8 6 1287 1195 107.70 32 Bridgewater 15 7 8 958 1127 86.00 28 Mitiamo 15 4 10 867 1487 58.31 16 Newbridge 15 4 11 757 1548 48.90 16 Calivil 14 3 11 781 1381 56.55 12 Maiden Gully 14 2 12 658 1290 61.01 8

RESERVES

Calivil 2.5 6.8 9.9 12.12 (84) Mitiamo 4.4 6.5 11.9 13.9 (87)

GOALS - Calivil: T. Piazza 4, M. Kunne, J. Lea, S. Fawcett 2, B. Dowton, J. Manderson. Mitiamo: M. Galvin 4, K. Pentreath, R. Lawry 2, H. Danziger, D. Saliba, J. Pianto, A. Mckean, J. Rawe.

Pyramid Hill

2.3 6.6 9.7 16.11

Gully 1.1

GOALS - Pyramid Hill: R. Pollock 11, L. Carroll 2, G. Quinn, C. Leerson, S. Donat. Maiden Gully: J. Doolan, N. Johnston.

Bridgewater 1.1 1.2 3.3 6.4

Serpentine 5.0

(40)

GOALS - Bridgewater: L. Harrison 3, H. Symons 2, T. Naughton. Bears Lagoon Serpentine: M. Niezen 3, J. Gladman, P. Russell 2, C. Davies, B. Finlay, D. Tineo.

Marong 14 14 0 1647 291 565.98 56 BL Serpentine 14 11 3 793 674 117.66 44 Pyramid Hill 14 10 4 1130 585 193.16 40 Inglewood 14 6 8 847 740 114.45 24 Newbridge 15 6 9 819 788 103.93 24 Maiden Gully 14 6 8 618 897 68.90 24 Mitiamo 14 5 9 675 896 75.33 20 Bridgewater 15 4 11 560 1048 53.44 16 Calivil 14 2 12 388 1558 24.90 8

Desperation in the final term between Bridgewater and the Bears. LH PHOTO

Loddon HERALD sport

Thursday August 3, 2023

‘REPORT COMING’ AFTER SUNDAY SUMMIT

THERE COULD BE CHANGE ... THIS TIME

A HASTILY-CALLED summit last weekend may see a new football structure mooted for the region.

AFL Central Victoria summonsed representatives of clubs from the Loddon league for the day-long workshop with a week’s notice.

They were joined by counterparts from the Bendigo and Heathcote leagues. However, league officials were not invited.

And while clubs were told an overview on the future of leagues across central and northern Victoria was to be presented after breakout sessions, AFL Central Victoria general manager Craig Armstead later said that would now be come later.

One options floated was creation of a two-division competition, mirroring the old Victorian Country Football League report

By CHRIS EARL

in 1980 that led to abolition of the Golden City League when it was rolled into a two-tier Bendigo competition.

The summit has been labelled a knee-jerk reaction in some quarters, the commission facing increased criticism for inaction on addressing tough issues on the future of leagues and clubs, heightened by “annual” bids of Marong and Maiden Gully to jump from Loddon Valley to Heathcote.

However, Newbridge president Andrew Friswell believes the latest talks could produce a future framework for local football.

He said the view was nine clubs was the optimum league size. “You get to play everyone twice and have the bye too,” said Friswell Clubs were asked where they believed they would be in five

years. One president said, however: “The horse has nearly bolted and the commission is trying to get a grip on the reins.”

Inglewood president Chris Cohalan said there were discussions on the future of under 18 competitions.

“Nothing has changed in the AFL Central Victoria league so realistically, it will come back to Loddon Valley.”

Pyramid Hill president Bruce Moon says lowering the age group and creating a 16-a-side local competition could strengthen a reborn Loddon Valley junior league.

Armstead said: “The clubs were very involved and provided valuable input and ideas on how to improve our football and netball competitions. There was no clear or obvious action to be taken immediately and we will hold another meeting later in the year.”

Heathcote call close on league switch pitches

HEATHCOTE Football League will meet next Wednesday as three clubs look to jump the next hurdle in switching leagues.

Loddon Valley reigning premiers Marong and Maiden Gully will have their pitch heard by the nine Heathcote league clubs.

According to league president

Peter Cole, his clubs will also decide the fate of a bid by Central Murray club Cohuna to join its ranks.

Under AFL rules, Loddon Valley league would have 24 hours after being informed of the outcome to lodge an appeal with AFL Central Victoria.

COMPASSION OF A COACH

Marong withdrew its switch bid a year ago, Maiden Gully was taken to appeal and forced to stay in Loddon Valley.

Loddon Valley clubs have been meeting to decide what their stance will be should the bids be accepted.

- CHRIS EARL

PHOTO

Bears Lagoon Serpentine coach Justin Laird was the first to comfort Beau Roy-Clements after a heavy knock in the final term of Saturday’s Loddon Valley clash with Bridgewater. A winded Beau-Clements was taken from the ground by trainers. Laird took the kick and snagged his second goal for the day as the Bears headed to a 24-point victory. LH