Loddon Herald 7 September 2023

RAMPING UP Blockade bid to

stop bulldozers

RESIDENTS have started blocking entrances to Inglewood’s old ambulance station in a last-minute battle to halt its demolition.

Several vehicles were parked around the Hospital Street site on Sunday night as the town prepared for the anticipated arrival of demolition crews this week.

More than 20 formed a welcoming committee on Monday while paramedics worked from the new station next door.

“The community is being shut down and ignored by the Government,” said Howard Rochester. “There is now a new ambulance station but this one does not need to go.”

Residents have called for a release of all documents on the old brown brick station built in the mid-1980s that the Government now claims has asbestos.

Northern Victoria Region MP Gaelle Broad joined protesting residents on Monday, days after she tabled a petition in State Parliament calling for a halt to demolition plans.

By CHRIS EARL

“They (residents) would like to see it used either as a community base or as additional office space for Inglewood and Districts Health Service,” Ms Broad said.

“I commend the hundreds of people who have signed the petition and are standing up for their community,” Ms Broad said.

She has also written to Health Minister Mary-Anne Thomas and called the minister’s office.

“Time is running out ... I have asked the Minister to step in to delay the demolition and facilitate a meeting between Ambulance Victoria and the Inglewood and Districts Health Service to see if a more amenable solution can be found.”

Mr Rochester said: “Let’s talk, let’s look at the situation. If it can’t be fixed then show us the information to back that up.”

And Ms Broad said a demolition contract could be cancelled. “The State Government has ripped up other contracts. Contracts don’t seem to mean much in Victoria these days.”

CONTINUED PAGE 6

Gordon Picken, Louise Bewley and Annette Smith mount a truck barricade on Monday morning as the campaign to save Inglewood’s old ambulance station ramps up. LH PHOTO

AFTER the event is probably bit late but Bradley of Boort cannot be faulted for his Father’s Day special pinned to the Treemendous signboard. One can only hope he appreciated the presents from the kids first!

WE DO wonder whether Bradley received any books of inspiration for future signs - you know, collections of dad jokes and bad puns. Came across this explanation of what is a dad joke - Dad jokes are both beloved and despised, like corny puns, they’re funny because they’re so not funny. But what makes a dad joke different from a regular pun? The signature of a dad joke is that it’s utterly uncool. Grandma may be the queen of nonsensical sayings, but Dad is certainly the king of cheesy jokes. Whether we’re willing to admit it or not, sometimes these jokes are actually funny. Add these brilliant one-liners and puns to your repertoire, and you’ll be on your way to matching dad’s pun-king status in no time.

PASSING the baton from one generation to the next, OTF was pleased to have a ripper arrive

from son overseas on Father’s Day. He said: To measure the quality of our puns you must use a sighsmograph! Boom boom.

THESE will likely get you sighing! To whoever stole my copy of Microsoft Office, I will find you. You have my Word! Or what about How do celebrities stay cool? They have many fans.

UNDER the alert eye of one son, there was more banter from the umpires at the weekend. Moved on from snakes to jelly babies did the conversation go, and dad making his son’s complexion turn raspberry red, explained his aversion to black and brown jelly babies. The discourse was enlightening to say the least.

WE reckon quite a few dads had the chocolate supplies topped up at the weekend, gratefully received but perhaps no so graciously shared. Once upon a time of course, a real special treat would have been a tin of Castlemaine Rock or Kool Mints. You can still buy the good old Kool Mints not like the hard as nails confectionary. Barnes, started producing Castlemaine Rock in the 1850s and selling it from a tent on the diggings around Castlemaine. The Rock recipe – sugar, water, peppermint oil and antelope – hadn’t changed since the company started, and neither had the very non-mechanised manufacturing process, from boiling ingredients in a saucepan to cutting the lollies out by hand Sadly, Castlemaine Rock disappeared a few years ago.

SPRING was welcomed in Pyramid Hill on Monday with the first progress association breakfast. Zeb and Kelly Gould were among locals to tuck into breakfast at what association president Drew Chislett says will become the town’s way to welcome each season. “We are proud of punch about our town and the breakfasts will be a way for people simply to gather and be together,” he said. The first seasonal barbecue was supported by Loddon Shire.

Council panel speaks at inquiry

LODDON Shire was among a panel of of local councils to give evidence at the Victorian Parliament flood inquiry.

Mayor Dan Straub joined representatives of Gannawarra and Campaspe and Northern Victorian Emergency Management Clus-

ter to give evidence in Echuca. Key topics discussed included the early warning systems, rural levees, mental health support, impact on farmers due to livestock losses, inadequate funding arrangements and the roles and responsibilities of agencies.

in some stores prior to this offer. To receive the member discount, a valid email address must have been registered either in-store or at snooze.com.au and confirmed at the time of purchase. Discounts cannot be applied after the sale has been finalised. Exclusions apply. Offer not available on floor stock, Snooze Deals products, clearance, bedgear C1 mattress & bedgear bundles, delivery, assembly and recycling services. As our stores vary in size, it is possible that not all products are displayed in all stores but all products may be ordered on request. While we aim to ensure the information provided is correct, sometimes errors occur and we reserve the right to correct any errors. New orders only. Snooze standard terms and conditions of purchase otherwise apply. Images are for illustrative purposes only. ∆∆Offer ends 10 September 2023. Snooze Members receive free local delivery within 25km distance from a Snooze store when you spend $999 or more in a single transaction with your local store or at snooze.com.au. Purchased items must be delivered at the same time to the same address. Delivery must be within 25km of the store which is automatically calculated at snooze.com.au or confirmed in-store. Excludes next day and express delivery and deliveries requiring balcony lift. New orders only.

Pharmacy hours cut

PRESSURES on rural pharmacies with the introduction of 60-day prescriptions from last Friday have seen one Loddon chemist cut its opening hours.

Boort Pharmacy has stopped trading on Saturday mornings as it adjusts to Federal Government changes.

Pharmacist Daniel Snyder said 60-day prescriptions had been among factors in making the decision.

“This is the biggest threat rural pharmacies have seen to their viability,” said Mr Snyder who has had the Boort Pharmacy for 11 years.

“We are the first place a lot of people come to (for health information), we are the most acces-

Aprons, beards and engines

SPRING events kick off in the Loddon this weekend with vintage themes in Wedderburn and Tarnagulla.

Wedderburn Historical Engine and Machinery Society will holds its annual rally on Saturday. “The club will highlight engines and tractors of yesteryear,” said secretary Lois Goddard.

“A feature this year is celebrating 100 years of Farmall tractors. There will be old cars and trucks on display. For the ladies there is a patchwork exhibition in the school building and a couple of quizzes for the kids.”

At Tarnagulla on Sunday, the Strictly Vintage fair will have competitions for the best women’s aprons and best men’s groomed faces.

“It will be a day of fun for the town,” said organiser Frances Clarke.

sible health care professionals in Australia ... COVID was the best example of that because we were still open.

“At the end of the day, pharmacies are one of the core businesses in Australian communities.”

Mr Snyder and other Loddon pharmacies have voiced concerns with the Government’s prescription changes, saying they were introduced without proper economic studies and due diligence.

He welcomed last week’s commitment by the Government and Pharmacy Guild of Australia to start immediate talks on a new community pharmacy agreement. The agreement will start from next March.

Guild president Trent Twomey said pharmacists wanted cheaper medicine for their patients and that could be achieved without

Billboard meeting

COMMUNITY activist group

negatively impacting community pharmacies.

“The Pharmacy Guild of Australia remains committed to working with the Albanese Government to deliver cheaper medicines in a way that does not adversely impact the viability of community pharmacies, or patients’ access to community pharmacy services,” he said.

The guild says it will continue to work with pharmacies that are most impacted by 60-day dispensing to ensure their viability remains intact while negotiations start with the Government.

Mr Snyder said pharmacists wanted an agreement that made “patients better off but where businesses are not worse off”.

Voice postal vote applications need a computer

RESIDENTS without access to a computer should be able to collect Voice referendum postal vote application forms from local post offices, Mallee MP Anne Webster said on Monday.

Dr Webster agreed with a Loddon Herald suggestion that the forms should be available in local towns after Australian Electoral Commission told voters in an information pack last week that applications were to be made online or by scanning a QR code.

“My office has received many inquiries

from constituents seeking assistance with registering for postal voting due to technology or other literacy issues. It is important that every single eligible person is able to cast their vote – regardless of their access to or ability to use technology,” Dr Webster said.

”Postal vote applications at post offices or other centralised points would be worthwhile to ensure those who need to can make their application and be a part of the democratic process.”

More than one in 10 Mallee residents voted by postal vote at last year’s federal election. Postal votes can be used by older residents although the AEC this week said it did not have data on age groups of electors choosing to apply to vote by post.

The Voice referendum on constitutional recognition of Aborigines will be held on October 14. Voting in the referendum is compulsory.

Latest opinion polls show national support for the referendum is in decline.

Billboard Battalion was yesterday to meet at Lake Boort to discuss the area’s inclusion on the Victorian Aboriginal Heritage Register. The group said: “Billboard Battalion is committed to educating the community about this threat and other critically important issues surrounding Aboriginal politics, farming, food and energy security. Our local volunteer team regularly does public presentations throughout Australia (and) would be happy to do a public presentation at Boort if the community is interested in learning more.”

NAPLAN changes

LATEST NAPLAN results for local students could not be compared with previous years because of assessment changes, said Wedderburn College acting principal Dean Lockhart. “The standards are reported on a reset measurement scale which means that results from 2023 cannot be compared with results from previous years, however, they do allow for the more precise information from online testing to be reflected in student results. While the 2023 NAPLAN results cannot be compared or analysed with respect to previous results, they do provide valuable data for our educators.”

TAFE experience

YEAR 9 and 10 students from Pyramid Hill College have had taster sessions in plumbing, electrical, agriculture, horticulture, engineering, building, animal care, bricklaying, hair and beauty and cookery and bakery as part of a Bendigo TAFE experience day.

Teacher recruitment

THE State Government has launched a teacher recruitment initiative to streamline recruitment processes and reduce the time it takes for local schools to match and fill teaching vacancies. The initiative aims to make it simpler for schools to connect with teachers through a centralised recruitment platform.

Daniel Snyder

Engines will be chugging at Wedderburn’s annual rally this weekend.

Alan clocks off after 51 years

FROM a dubious first day on the old Korong Shire’s outdoor gang, Alan Jackson has clocked off as one of the longest serving council workers in history.

Alan officially retired from Loddon Shire last month, 51 years after being too late to catch a ride on a bus to Borung where he was to start work with the outdoor crew.

A stern official warning - dismissal if it happened again - gave way to Alan’s rise to his later promotion to supervisor following amalgamation of local councils in the 1990s.

“Back when I started, we did everything by hand ... concreting, laying pipes. I then progressed to being a backhoe operator and that was the first time I had had a decent machine that saved a lot of time with the work to be done,” he said.

He had started working life as a flour mill hand in Charlton 18 months before being put on the council payroll.

“I was a junior being paid $28 a week but doing a man’s job. Then the business hit tough times and I was looking for a new job,” he said.

“Already playing football with Wedderburn, Lindsay Holt put in a word for me with the council and I pretty much started straight away.

“There have been some good people to work with, both outside and in the offices ... I had opportunities to work inside but that wasn’t for me.”

Alan’s fame as a footballer was the stuff of legends back in the 1970s. “St Arnaud’s Johnny Goode kicked a league record 15

goals one day and then the next week I came out for Wedderburn and booted 19 and that’s a record that still stands.”

He played in Wedderburn’s 1971 premiership side, coached the Redbacks and also won a flag leading Korong Vale in the 1980s.

Alan spent the last 12 months easing into retirement where more travel tops the list of planned activities.

This week he was off to Adelaide and Darwin is also beckoning for a return visit to relatives.

“And fishing ... love the fishing up there catching barramundi,” he said.

Overseas and Vietnam tops the countries already visited with New Zealand and South Africa likely to be passport stamps alongside Thailand and the Cook Islands.

And then there are the grandchildren in Melbourne, lawn bowls and barracking for the Melbourne Football Club.

But Alan is making no predictions about this year’s AFL grand final. “I am a proud Demons supporter but every time I tip them they loose,” he said.

Alan said he had enjoyed the 51 years working for local council but lamented the lack of money it received from governments to maintain roads.

“There’s not enough money being made available and the further you get behind with maintenance, the more money it will cost in the long run,” he said.

“People complain a lot about the roads but those roads are mostly up to the Department of Transport,” said Alan.

Tarnagulla Strictly Vintage Fair 2023

Sunday 10th September 9am to 3pm

9am Opening

CFA Breakfast and lunch BBQ

Barista coffee from Tarnagulla Supply Store and Tichy’s at Tarna

Vintage Stalls along Commercial Road

Stalls and entertainment in Soldiers Memorial Park

Tarnagulla and surrounds history display in the Victoria Theatre

Tarnagulla Primary School stall, activities and games of yesteryear

10am Vintage car and caravan displays

Amazing live music provided by Goldfields Music Club Inc. throughout the day

11am Sumptuous High Teas in the Victoria Theatre Supper Room presided over by Her Majesty Queen Victoria

“Hole in One” competition presented by Tarnagulla Golf Club Inc. on Victoria Park Oval

12.00 “Adorn Your Apron” parade and competition to be judged by Her Majesty Queen Victoria and other special guests

1pm “Facial Hair Extraordinaire” Best Groomed Mustache and Beard Competition sponsored by Newbridge Hotel

And an afternoon full of vintagy and fabulous shenanigans

Please contact us below if you would like to be part of the action!

Bought to you by Southern Loddon Tourism Inc.

Tarnagulla Strictly Vintage Fair on Facebook

Enquiries: tarnagullastrictlyvintage@gmail.com

Event Co-ordinator: 0457 326 743 for all enquiries and stall bookings

Crafty times! Schedules are out

KITCHENS and sewing rooms in Loddon homes are busy after the release of the schedule for next month’s Boort Show.

Agricultural and pastoral society president Madeleine Scott said pavilion events would include sewing, crochet, cooking, vegetables and photography while the program for the October 14 show would return to a full pre-COVID line-up with the horse events and dog trials.

Also part of pavilion section will be farm produce, antique and collectables.

“We are encouraging people from every

Loddon community to enter our pavilion events,” Madeleine said.

“As the Loddon Shire’s only local agricultural show, we want to bring people and communities together showing their amazing craft and cooking talents and adding to the fun of the show.”

For some 2022 exhibitors, they have won their way through to state finals that will be judged at the Royal Melbourne Show this month.

Boort Show schedules are available at local businesses.

Alan Jackson ... almost sacked on his first day with Korong Shire. LH PHOTO

Duck hunting faces ban from next year

THE final shots may have been fired after a State Parliament inquiry last week recommended duck hunting in Victoria be banned from 2024.

But Loddon Mayor Dan Straub has not given up hope that the annual duck season the shire says boosts the local economy and helps with mental health and wellbeing will survive.

“Let’s hope the Parliamentary processes see things differently and recognises the economic benefits for regions like ours,” said Cr Straub who holds hope that the official Government response may be different to inquiry recommendations.

The Legislative Council inquiry received more than 9000 submissions, the most ever for a State Parliament probe. Among them was Loddon Shire putting the case to retain duck hunting.

Cr Straub also said it was disappointing the committee’s final report recommended the Aboriginal community be exempt from the duck hunting ban.

“It’s recommendations of this sort again that will only divide the community,” he said.

“I really do hope the Government sees fit to continue the long-standing tradition of duck

hunting in Victoria. We all share in the history and traditions of duck hunting.”

Coalition members of the inquiry committee issued a dissenting report, backing the future of duck hunting in Victoria, after “a biased and stacked Inquiry recommended the end of the practice”.

“Labor, the Greens and the Animal Justice Party members involved in the inquiry into Victoria’s Recreational Native Bird Hunting Arrangements have ignored science and based their call to end duck hunting on ideology alone,” they said.

“Instead of backing trained and licenced hunters and recognising the positive effect they have on conserving and restoring wetland habitats, Labor, the Greens and Animal Justice Party used their numbers in bid to vote duck hunting out of existence.

“The sourcing of birds for food now faces being banned for all individuals of non-Aboriginal descent.

“After hearing overwhelming evidence from scientists showing hunters do not adversely impact the population of water birds, the Liberals and Nationals were unable to support the

The Railway Hotel

Dozens sign up to footpath compliance

MORE than two dozen Loddon businesses have acted to comply with shire regulations on display of goods on footpaths.

Inquiry committee’s majority report.”

The minority report recommends the continuation of bird harvesting in Victoria in a safe, responsible and sustainable way.

Shadow Minister for Agriculture Emma Kealy said: “Duck hunting is sustainable and safe and has enormous economic benefits. The evidence, ignored by Labor, Greens and Animal Justice Party members involved in this Inquiry, backs that up.

“It helps with land conservation and sustainability and is a source of food.”

Committee member Melina Bath said: “This inquiry was a missed opportunity to showcase the sustainability of hunting based on science and fact.

“This inquiry has wasted many thousands of dollars and countless hours of time to put together a biased and flawed report.

“The Andrews Government together with the cross bench have used selective ideological evidence to justify its end game – banning duck hunting,” Ms Bath said.

The Government is yet to give a formal response to the recommendation. It is expected later this year.

The council has received 22 applications from businesses plus fee waiver requests from community groups since the crackdown began in July.

Shire operations directions Steven Phillips said:

“A reminder letter has been sent to 14 premises that are placing items on the footpath or nature strip without having a current permit or application.

“Several proprietors have been in contact with council staff to clarify the requirements and staff have met with four businesses onsite to discuss specific situations,” he said.

“Some proprietors have decided not to put things out anymore; this is not council’s desired outcome.

“Ultimately, we want all businesses to be able to utilise the public space outside their premises in a way that complies with a valid permit.”

Council’s crackdown to have compliance with state and federal disability legislation met with opposition from some traders who have stopped displaying goods.

Ambulance battle ramps up

FROM PAGE 1

The old station was built after the 1983 Ash Wednesday bushfires. Timber used in framework came from trees that had been quickly salvaged from fire areas and preserved in nearby lakes until ready for milling.

Builder Bruce Hargreaves said: “It was some of the best timber we ever had.”

The Wedderburn builder and retired bricklayer Bert Bradley are unsure if the building had asbestos used in construction.

“This was around the time asbestos was stopped being used,” Mr Hargreaves said. “And if it was, it would be in the eaves and the only time asbestos is a danger is when it is disturbed.”

Mr Bradley was among protesters for a second time in a month on Monday and believes it would be a waste of money to demolish the old station.

Mr Rochester said community calls for talks had been snubbed by the Govern-

ment, ignoring grass roots support for the building’s retention.

A Government spokesperson 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.

“Throughout the construction process, we continued to monitor and maintain the old building to ensure the safety of our paramedics while work was underway to prepare and build the new station.

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

“Demolition of the old Inglewood ambulance branch will commence now the paramedics have moved into their new, multi-million-dollar facility.”

Member for Ripon Martha Haylett was asked for comment on whether she supported the community campaign.

Sitting in and determined ... residents outside the old station. LH PHOTO

Duck hunters at Salisbury West in May

Denise puts focus on health

DENISE Caulfield is the Loddon face of Women’s Health Week this year.

The Wedderburn woman is sharing her story as local residents are encouraged to “grow your knowledge” supporting women to make informed decisions about their health

Denise, 78, is always keeping herself busy with a wide range of hobbies and on stage in the local theatre group.

But two years ago, during Easter, Denise’s health took an unexpected turn.

She began experiencing persistent headaches and felt something wasn’t right.

Concerned about her symptoms, Denise visited a general practitioner who provided her reassurance.

However, it was her daughter who kept noticing that something wasn’t quite right and encouraged her to seek a second opinion.

And from that appointment, Denise was sent straight to Melbourne for surgery that left her with 35 staples across her head.

Denise says she considers herself fortunate, acknowledging that it was her daughter’s intuition that ultimately saved the day.

Though she faces ongoing challenges in accepting what she can’t do, Denise remains determined to make progress with an unwaveringly positive outlook.

Denise has had support from Inglewood and Districts Health Service strength trainer Karen McCrann-Peters.

It began with water aerobics

classes, which Denise says she embraced wholeheartedly and has faithfully attended twice a week ever since.

But it doesn’t stop there. Denise said she discovered that strength training was not only beneficial, but also enjoyable!

She considers her fellow attendees as an extended family, relishing the social connections

that have blossomed within the group. Beyond the joy of companionship, Denise has witnessed improvements in her balance over the course of 16 months.

Denise puts that down to commitment to strength training which has kept her accountable and fit.

From her journey, one invaluable advice she would give to

Gender title stop causes a stir with readers

A NEW Loddon Shire policy that has councillors and officers referring to each other by their titles has caused a stir with Loddon Herald readers.

They have taken to social media criticising the policy that outlaws the use of Mrs, Miss and Mr at council meetings.

In fact, several readers wrote on the Loddon Herald facebook page that they were proud to be called Miss or Mrs. Councillors adopted the new policy last month.

Council’s director corporate Amanda Wilson said: “The governance rules underwent a full review, were workshopped with councillors and included a period of community engagement prior to the governance rules version three being adopted at the August council meeting.

other is: “If something doesn’t feel right, get a second opinion.”

“Health is sometimes taken for granted until it’s too late. So, let’s make a promise to ourselves and prioritise self-care and make regular health checks a non-negotiable part of our lives.”

Women gathered in Inglewood on Tuesday for a morning tea marking Women’s Health Week.

“Additions and amendments to the rules were made to provide clarity, to align to the Local Government Act 2020 and reflect good and best practice.

“Section 30, addressing the meeting of the governance rules, reflects best practice and alignment with council’s gender equality action plan,” she said.

WHAT YOU HAVE TO SAYPAGE 14

DENISE Caulfield

Nada and Tyson rock the night away

Highway passing lane still up in air: Webster

CONSTRUCTION of overtaking lanes on the Calder Highway at Derby remains in limbo as a Federal Government infrastructure project review drags on.

A start was to have been made this year on the south-bound passing lanes with north-bound lanes in a future stage.

Planning approvals had been sought from Loddon Shire for the removal of trees to widen the highway and construct the first overtaking lanes north of Bendigo.

But Mallee MP Anne Webster said Calder Highway works were among many projects in the electorate left in limbo by the 90-day review started more than four months ago.

She said Mallee communities were still waiting to hear whether their key projects would continue or be axed by the the

Government more than 130 days after the review started.

“Mallee people are eager to see these projects delivered but the Minister is dragging her feet,” Dr Webster said.

“Important safety upgrades on Mallee highways such as overtaking lanes on the Calder Highway between Marong and Derby will provide a broad community benefit but Labor can’t even tell us if they will go ahead or not.”

Dr Webster said Infrastructure Minister Catherine King was playing politics by targeting Coalition projects under the guise of “cleaning up” the infrastructure pipeline.

“Excluding Labor election commitments from this review highlights Minister King’s pure cynicism when it comes to funding vital infrastructure,” she said.

Man, 20, arrested after morning stabbing

POLICE have arrested a 20-year-old man after a stabbing in Pyramid Hill on Friday morning.

A man, 58, was allegedly stabbed at a Victoria Street property about 8am. He was treated at the scene by paramedics.

Police said the 20-year-old was expected to be charged with recklessly causing injury and having made threats to kill. The men were believed to be known to each other.

Investigations into the incident were continuing.

Nada Zec and Tyson Blair were among the stars of last Friday night’s Wedderburn College production of We Will Rock You. Nada played the role of Killer Queen with conviction and General Khashoggi had presence through Tyson’s acting. The pair played lead roles along with Libby Norman (Galileo), Amelia Buschmann (Scaramouche), Lillian Stephenson (Buddy) Kaiden Bristow (Brit) and Isabelle Arnup (Oz) supported by students from Wedderburn College and Inglewood Primary School singing songs of the rock group Queen. AP PHOTO

HUNDREDS of farmers will be in the path of VNI West’s draft corridor to be released this month.

Australian Energy Market Operator on Tuesday confirmed “around 350 landholders” were being contacted by Transmission Company Victoria.

It is the first time AEMO has confirmed the number of landholders whose land could fall under transmission lines to be built between Stawell and Kerang for the controversial project.

“Our land team is currently attempting to contact around 350 landholders,” a TCV spokesperson said.

“Where we are not able to reach people, we will mail a letter of introduction in coming weeks.

“TCV is aiming to make the draft corridor public in Septem-

ber, after we have spoken to as many landholders possible.

350 in corridor path Questions bring some answers

“We are attempting to contact landholders via phone, where we can obtain a current/publicly available number.”

There were reports last week of a stand-off between one landowner and TCV representatives near Stawell as the proposed route for the Victorian-New South Wales renewable energy transmission line is refined to a draft corridor up to 1km wide.

The TCV spokesperson said: “If the landholder is open to a meeting, the landholder liaison will arrange a time and date at the landholder’s convenience.

“Landholders can have a second person present, they just need to let their landholder liaison know.”

And TCV has also confirmed 15 people applied to be part of its community reference group.

The spokesperson said TCV was contacting “the 15 individuals who put their names forward to participate in the group”.

“Details of the group members will be provided closer to the date of the first meeting.”

TCV last week said the group would hold its first meeting this month.

In Federal Parliament on Monday, Mallee MP Anne Webster spoke about last month’s protest rally on the steps on Victoria’s Parliament House last month.

“One sight we didn’t see was regional Labor politicians. People in my electorate were intensely disappointed they did not stand with their communities,” she said.

“Renewables are their priority, not the threat to production of food and fibre for Australia and the world.

“My constituents are deeply distressed by the new VNI West route selected by the Australian Energy Market Operator functioning as Transmission Company Victoria.

“Social licence has not been given by Mallee people, but Labor is disgracefully ploughing ahead anyway.

“They dishonestly pit neighbour against neighbour, dividing communities.

“They are disingenuous about the cost and the harm to the environment, wildlife and long-term productivity in their anxiety to get the job done,” Dr Webster told Parliament.

AEMO report links blackout threat to VNI West project

VICTORIA faced a summer of electricity blackouts as the sate rushes its switch to relying on renewable energy.

AEMO’s electricity statement of opportunities report released last Thursday identified supply reliability gaps.

Although the State Government has denied supply risks this summer, AEMO CEO Daniel Westerman said: “This year’s report highlights the pace of Australia’s energy transition and the urgency needed to deliver new investment to ensure reliable, affordable and

cleaner energy for consumers. Over the 10year outlook, we continue to forecast reliability gaps, which are mostly due to the expectation that 62 per cent of today’s coal fleet will retire by 2033.

“To ensure Australian consumers continue to have access to reliable electricity supplies, it’s critical that planned investments in transmission, generation and storage projects are urgently delivered,” he said. “In the next 10 years, electricity consumption and peak demand are predicted to grow due to population

growth and economic activity, but also the electrification (fuel switching) across all sectors of the economy, including transportation and residential heating and cooking.

“Considering only existing, committed and anticipated projects as per the ESOO’s ‘central scenario’, reliability risks are forecast to exceed the relevant reliability standard in Victoria from this summer.”

VNI West has been pushed by the State Government and AEMO as a key link in future electricity supply.

IN THE rush to meet renewable energy targets mandated by the Federal and State Governments, questions maybe seen by “the powers” as a nuisance and annoyance.

But questions must be asked for people to have any confidence that projects like VNI West are right, that alternatives are on the table. That processes and projects are not just rushed and rammed through

The Loddon Herald has been asking your questions of “the powers” since the snap change of route for VNI West.

We often get responses that might address a question but in well-practised stonewalling, often do not provide an answer.

There is a difference between a response and an answer.

For weeks we have been seeking details on how many landholders are to be contacted, of how many people will be on the community reference group. Some questions surely able to be answered simply and directly.

The veil of AEMO secrecy this week has been partially lifted, hopefully not in isolation. The VNI West rush must have time for scrutiny and proper answers.

Early start tipped to summer fire season

AN EARLY start to the summer fire season is likely in Loddon communities.

Victoria’s drier than average conditions are expected to continue, following below average rainfall across much of the state during winter, according to the Australian Seasonal Bushfire Outlook for Spring.

And with predictions of a drier and warmer spring, fire agencies say there is a high chance of an early start to the fire season in the central, western and northern parts of the state.

The report says grass growth is expected to be higher than usual after three years of wet La Niña conditions.

Emergency services say they are prepared for emerging risks associated with the potential for an earlier start to the bushfire season and will continue to monitor conditions.

Acting Emergency Manage-

ment Commissioner Chris Stephenson said: “Now is the time to plan and prepare for the potential for fires, by ensuring you know what to do in case of an emergency.

“Make your fire plan and talk with your family about what you will do. It’s important you understand your fire risk and familiarise yourself with the new fire danger ratings.”

“Never rely on one source of emergency information. Download the VicEmergency app and tune in to your local emergency broadcaster.”

Country Fire Authority Chief Officer Jason Heffernan said CFA crews were prepared to protect their communities.

“Our members are continuously working very closely with their communities and our interagency partners to prepare for the high-risk weather season,” he said. “Fire safety is a shared re-

sponsibility between fire services and Victorians, so we urge people to begin preparing their family and property for the upcoming fire season.”

Forest Fire Management Victoria Chief Fire Officer Chris Hardman said: “Reducing bushfire risk to protect life, property and the environment is at the heart of what Forest Fire Management Victoria does.

“We reduce bushfire risk all year round, and the drier conditions over winter have allowed our crews to recently conduct planned burns in parts of the state where conditions have been suitable and it is safe to do so –including in East Gippsland, Loddon Mallee and in the Grampians.

“Victoria will always have bushfires, and we want our communities to know that when a bushfire starts, we are ready to respond, with more than 500 seasonal firefighters recruited.”

Second month well down on rain average

LODDON towns have recorded rainfalls more than half historic average for a second month.

September records show Inglewood had 18.4mm compared with the monthly average of 45mm. Wedderburn tipped 19.6mm from the gauge while its average is 46.6mm.

At Dunolly where the average for the month is 49.7mm, 22.2mm was recorded with the heaviest fall of 5.4mm on September 10.

Friends to launch butterfly guide

DRAGONFLIES, damselflies and butterflies of the Goldfields will have their own guide book later this month.

However, towns further north came closer to average falls for September.

Charlton received 20.4mm against its monthly average of 33mm and Mincha recorded 24.8mm, including 12.8mm on September 23, compared with 32.6mm.

Meanwhile, the Bureau of Meteorology forecast is for below average rainfall across most of Australia for the next three months.

Friends of Kooyoora is putting finishing touches to the book more than 18 months in preparation ahead of its official launch at Rheola.

Convenor Rob Scholes said group members had been assisted by experts who had previously contributed to national publications.

“Instead of going through

mountains of pages, our guidebook will list about 50 species from Charlton to Castlemaine and Heathcote to Avoca,” he said.

Group members and Parks Victoria last week ran sessions for the senior pupils and staff of the Tarnagulla Primary School as part of the Friends Bush Colours Project to develop resources and programs building an appreciation of, the natural environment and ecosystems.

Record entries received

The 2023 Loddon Healthy Minds Network Art Competition has seen a record number of entries from schools across the Loddon region, with a total of 260 entries from 10 schools.

The art competition with themes around good mental health and wellbeing encourages those who enter the competition – particularly our young people – to have healthy conversations about mental health.

Being able to have these conversations is an important element to breaking the stigma associated with mental health.

The Loddon Healthy Minds Network Art Competition is supported with funding from Loddon Shire Council and Community Bank Inglewood & Districts. Entries are being prepared for judging – so make sure to keep an eye out for prize winner announcements coming soon.

For more information about the Loddon Healthy Minds Network, visit www.loddonhealthyminds.com.au

Tarnagulla Primary School students explore Kooyoora Park last week with Friends members and Parks Victoria staff.

Firewood spring season opens

THE spring firewood collection season has opened with Loddon residents given access to state forests.

Local residents can collect firewood from designated areas in the Bealiba-Barp State Forest, Tarnagulla State Forest, St Arnaud South State Forest, Myers Flat State Forest and Moliagul State Forest.

Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action regional manager forest and fire planning Amy Groch said fire-

Restrictions lifted

VISITOR restrictions at Boort District Health have been lifted. A respiratory virus outbreak in the aged care facility had seen restrictions in place for a week until last Thursday. However, visitors have been asked to to wear surgical masks while at the facility.

Battery charge

GOULBURN Murray Water has trialled lithium batteries in its flume gates and service points and found they last two to three times as long as leadacid batteries. As the lead-acid batteries GMW is currently using in its assets reach the end of their life cycle, GMW will replace them with lithium batteries.

Fox collection

Victorian Fox and Wild Dog Bounty collections will be accepted by Agriculture Victoria in Bendigo on October 2 and 30.

wood collection was only allowed in designated firewood collection areas during a firewood season.,

“Coming out of winter, access to some firewood collection areas might be restricted until tracks dry out and conditions are safe,” she said. “Please be aware of the environment around you at all times and safety of yourself and others when in state forests as trees may fall or drop limbs without warning,” she said.

Ms Groch said people could collect up to two cubic metres per person per day with a maximum of 16 cubic metres per household per financial year. She encouraged people who rely on firewood for heating and cooking to plan their needs early.

“Firewood collected during the spring and autumn seasons needs at least eight to 12 months to cure and be dry before use. We prioritise firewood availability for local communities.”

Old scholars return with Year 12 tips

SIX former East Loddon P12 College students were back at school last week sharing tips and advice with students on how to survive that final part of Year 12 and also what life was like since leaving school. Strategies for success in study and advice were also shared. students had to offer. Students and former students included Bridget Verley, Jade Cockerell, Tahlia Bolwell, Gemma Maxted, Keira Lawry, Levi Ryan, Jaxon Addlem, Brodie Welsh, Alicia Hay, Josh Diss, Montana Twigg, Colby Collins, Ciaran Gale, Jye Rassmusen, Tom Harcourt, Libby Clymo, Noah Condliffe, Sam Hicks and Steph Demeo.

PETER WALSH MP YOUR VOICE IN PARLIAMENT

YOUR VOICE IN PARLIAMENT

Cheap water flows on local reserves

Trading hours

Monday – Open 3.00pm

Dinner from 6.00pm  Social Darts Night

Tuesday – Open 2.00pm

Dinner from 6.00pm  Trivia Night

Wednesday – Open Midday

Lunch from 12.00pm

Dinner from 6.00pm  Pot’n’Parma Night

Thursday – Open Midday

Dinner from 5.30pm

Steak’n’Pot Night

Friday – Open Midday

Lunch from 12.00pm

Dinner from 5.30pm

Happy Hour 5.00pm – 6.30pm

With Hot Bar Snacks, Meat Raffle

Saturday – Open Midday

Lunch from 12.00pm

Dinner from 5.30pm

We are family, friends, colleagues and neighbours

EIGHT councils in the Coliban Water region have saved almost $250,000 between them with discounted water for public parks, gardens and recreation reserves.

Sunday – Open Midday

If

are family, friends, colleagues and neighbours The coronavirus

If you need advice or assistance with anything related to government, or in your general day-to-day

We are family, friends, colleagues and neighbours

has

on

your

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.

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.

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.

about

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

— but most of all we are a community. We are in this together, and together we will get through.

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.

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

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.

peter.walsh@parliament.vic.gov.au

Loddon Shire was among the councils that also included Greater Bendigo, Campaspe, Central Goldfields, Gannawarra, Hepburn, Macedon Ranges and Mount Alexander.

Coliban Water managing director Damian Wells said the recreational water discount program saw water offered at half the normal consumption fee for the 2022-2023 financial year.

“As we continue to navigate the challenges of climate change, rainfall variability and population growth, we want to work with councils to improve water efficiency and the liveability of our region,” he said.

“It’s important we maintain these green spaces, which are vital community assets, providing places for people to relax, exercise and connect with nature,”

In 2022/23, which was the fourth year of the program, councils were collectively offered up to 300 megalitres of discounted water, with around 241 megalitres being awarded the discounted rate.

Memorial service held

RESIDENTS at Inglewood and Districts Health Service have held a memorial service to remember the passing of loved ones over the past three years.

The service was conducted by Rev. Darcy Vaughan of the Anglican parish of Maldon and Inglewood assisted by the service’s director of clinical and community services April Mc Kenzie.

The service also acknowledged the impact of COVID-19 on events since 2020.

WIN

All Day Pizza Menu  Close 11.00pm

pandemic

had a profound impact

all our lives so looking after

mental wellbeing is

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.

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

Jas Marshall demonstrates how to apply sheep blowfly treatment during a field day at Wheelhouse AgnVet, Bridgewater, on Friday. More than 80 farmers attended the field day demonstration of animal health products. LH PHOTO

Disease management on schedule

DISEASE management best prac tice sessions will be part of Birch ip Cropping Group’s main field day next week.

Disease experts Dr Joshua Fan ning and Dr Hari Dadu from Ag riculture Victoria will discuss the

SHEEP

LAMB numbers are slowly increasing, 13,000 yarded with about half being new season stock at Bendigo on Monday.

Quality was very good in the new season and lead pens of old fed lambs, however it did tailoff into a lot of plainer trade and light shorn lambs still being cleaned-out.

The positive from the market was firm to dearer results for new season lambs and any good processing old lambs above 24kg cwt. There was price cuts of up to $20/head for secondary shorn lambs under 24kg as key domestic buyers switch their focus to new season stock. Small light Merino lambs were significantly cheaper in places.

The lead run of new season lambs, in fresh fat score 4 condition and weighing 26-30kg cwt, sold from $130 to $152 and averaged $144 at an estimated 525c/ kg cwt, gaining $3 on a week ago. Key domestic orders were the volume buyers, also paying from $120 to $141 for 24-26kg pens which also averaged above 500c/kg.

Medium and light new season lambs to processors $74 to $118/ head. It is worth noting meat buyers were quick to pull back on any young lambs that didn’t

price being $155. Most export grade lambs $135 to $150/head.

Domestic buyers did support some of the shorter skin fed lambs in the 24-28kg range which helped boost averages in certain categories.

Most of the better style old lambs to processors were estimated at 400c to 460c/kg cwt. The market fell away on plainer trade and light old lambs which made anything from $39 to $115/ head.

Little Merino lambs sold down to $12/head. The price spread across secondary old lambs went from 100c for Merinos to 400c on trade sized crossbreds.

Sheep supply doubled and some excellent quality heavy ewes and wethers were presented. Bidding was at much lower levels as $15 to $30/head was taken off the levels of a week ago.

Heaviest crossbred ewes $35 to $54, some big woolly Merino ewes to $60 and some export weight shorn Merino wethers at 35kg cwt for $54. Underneath this was a lot of trade and lighter sheep from $20 to $40/head. Mutton was estimated at 100c to 180c/kg cwt. There was sheep which sold below $10/head including most rams.

Wycheproof (128) $141. C Graham Family Arnold (123) $140. RE & SL Pedersen Kamarooka (79) $134. ST & JA Cain Moama 48 $134. G & C McKinnon Pyramid Hill (191) $129. TD Ryan Wood Wood (38) $128. JF Eddy Moama (86) $120.

CROSSBRED LAMBS

Peter Moyle, Huntly (24) $166. M Ryan, Colbinabbin (14) $155. Yirraba Past Yea (16) $151. J Parson Elmore (23) $150. Pompapiel Past Pompapiel, (97) $147. BJ & JM Poole Elmore (44) $144. F & M Schmidt Pyramid Hill (68) $142. Matt Lockhart Berrimal (101) $130. P Webb Bridgewater (63) $129.

MERINO LAMBS

Colvin Family Trust Eppalock (127) $127.

MERINO WETHERS

Freemantle & Bell Woodstock (126) $54. G Nesbit Glenalbyn (194) $54.

CROSSBRED EWES

P O’Connor Mangalore (74) $53. Graham Sudholz Taminick (41) $50.

MERINO EWES

R & K Mountjoy Raywood (124) $60. A & B Bear Leaghur (73) $56. L & T Ryan Wood Wood (40) $55. J Weir Carisbrook (46) $55. SUPPLIED BY ASSOCIATED STOCK AGENTS

grain

BOORT Grain Co-op prices as at Monday.

risks of Botrytis, Sclerotinia white

BCG MAIN FIELD DAY

PROGRAM | KINNABULLA

WEDNESDAY 13 SEPTEMBER

Mallee Matrix Kate Finger & Angus Butterfield, BCG

Optical spray technology

David Tuppen, Goldacres

Matrix

Kate Finger & Angus

Butterfield, BCG

Optical spray technology

David Tuppen, Goldacres

Wheat & barley disease

Nick Poole, FAR

Wheat varieties

Brooke Bennett & Kelly Angel, BCG

12.30 Lunch

Vulnerable soils

Rebecca Mitchell & Mel Cann, Ag Vic (marquee)

Farming systems

Yolanda Plowman, BCG (marquee) Pulse varieties & disease

Josh Fanning & Chloe Findlay, Ag Vic

Pastures, Oaten hay & Livestock eID

Alison Frischke, BCG

Barley varieties

Brooke Bennett & Kelly Angel, BCG

Barley agronomy Tom Price, FAR

Silicon in crops

Dorin Gupta, Uni Melb

Natural capital & establishing your sustainability credentials La Trobe University

1.30 Getting the most out of the Bureau Michaela Alexander, BoM

Barley varieties

Brooke Bennett & Kelly Angel, BCG

Barley agronomy

Tom Price, FAR

Wheat & barley disease (R)

Nick Poole, FAR

Septoria in wheat

Hari Dadu, Ag Vic

SUCKERS

DJ & ED Lees Rochester (83) $152. M Ryan Colbinabbin (43) $148. R & N Comer

Drummartin (62) $145. Pinelea Farms

Pyramid Hill (61) $145. P Ogden Moama (66) $145. B Allen Wycheproof (45) $143. HBR Farming Woomboota (54) $142. GL

Cain Moama (52) $141. A,C & J Coatsworth

Wheat - H1 $391.25. H2 $371. APW1 $361.50. ASW $354.50. AGP1 $346.50. SFW1

CLEARING SALE - INGLEWOOD

Friday 15th September – 10:30am Sharp!

TRUCKS, FARM MACHINERY & EQUIPMENT

A/C PG & MM Harris Pty Ltd

Onsite: 194 Inglewood - Serpentine Road, Inglewood VIC 3517 1992 Freightliner Prime Mover, 1973 Inter tray truck with hoist not registered, 1999 48’ drop deck trailer, 1993 Lusty 36 x 6 Triaxle Tipper, 42’ Bogie trailer with 2 deck Stock Crate with new axles, 18’ Single deck Stock Crate, 14’ Grain Bin, 3 Antique Baby Quin Trailers 2 x 14’ & 1 x 12’, 2 x 14’ Single Axle Farm Trailers 6630 JD tractor with FEL (3600 hours), 2188 Case Header with 30’ front (4303 Engine hours & 3468 Rotor hours), Case DX 131 Mower Conditioner, Feraboli Round Baler (16500 rolls), Tonutti V12 hay rake, Hardi 80’ Boom Spray 3400L, 12’ Gason Slasher, 511 Inter Combine 28 row with Johns undercarriage SSB, 37’ Alfarm Bar with FT Harrows, 51’ Harrow bar, 28’ Harrow Bar, 20’ rubber Tyre Roller, 2 x 12’ Spike Rollers/ Tandem Hitch, 4’ 6” 3PL Slasher, 1,000 L Water Trailer with Honda Pump, 1,000 L Mobile Fuel Tank with 12V pump, 4500L Fuel Tank, 2 Linkage Rippers, Mobile Deutz Compressor

GRAIN HANDLING: 14 ‘ Grain bin with Grainline Auger & Motor, 2 x Nelson 540 Bag Silos, 36T Ahrens Field Bin with Auger (Hyd lift), 4 x 36T Jaeschke Field Bins, 30T Jaeschke Field Bin, 2 x 29T Jaeschke Field Bins, 27T Jaeschke Field Bin, 2 x 28T Sherwell Field Bins, 28T Sherwell Field Bin with Auger, 46’ x 8” Wheatheart Auger with Honda Motor, 36’ x 9” Vennings Auger with Vanguard Motor, 30’ Sherwell Auger with Honda Motor, 12’ pencil Auger,

SUNDRY ITEMS: Boyd Oat feeder, Ruddweigh sheep scales, 2 x sheep feeders, Pallet Forks, 4 x sweep through water troughs, 3 x 450 L water troughs, 15 x irrigation channel pipes, 240v Bore pump, old Gason scoop, Gantries, Sunshine gates, Mesh fencing & other sundries too numerous to list.

TERMS: Numbers system operating- I.D required. Cash, Cheque payment accepted & EFTPOS available. GST applicable, Light luncheon available

REMARKS: all vehicles are Registered with no RWC, genuine sale as Vendors have retired from farming

DIRECTIONS: From Bridgewater, take Calder Highway towards Inglewood. Turn right, Inglewood Serpentine Road, go 2 kms, sale on Right hand side. Follow signs

FULL DETAILS & PHOTOS www.fpnevins.com.au

Agent: James Nevins 0407 302 900 Vendor: Peter Harris: 0429 383 006

* R = repeated session

2.30 More right, more often: Risk/reward and on-farm decision making Peter Hayman, PIRSA-SARDI

3.30 Passing the baton in succession planning, Tony Catt, Catapult Wealth

Conclusion Sundowner refreshments

‘Bale filler’ rams up sale average

GRAZIERS looking for ram bloodlines to breed good cutting sheep helped achieve an increase in the average at Friday’s onproperty sale at Kerrilyn Merino and Poll Merino Stud.

Mt Hoogly farmer Brendon Lanfranchi paid top price of $3000 for the poll twin with fleece measurement 18.1 micron, standard deviation of 2.7, coefficient variation of 15.1 and comfort factor of 99.7 per cent.

It was one of two rams purchased by Mr Lanfranchi who has been using rams with the Kerrilyn bloodline in his 3000 ewe flock for the past eight years.

“They help us grow good heavy cutters ... bale fillers,” he said of rams purchased at

the Dunluce stud auction. Bridgewater’s Rob Pollock was top bidder on two poll rams.

“We still run a mixture of poll and horned but are gradually changing over.”

He has been buying Kerrilyn rams for 10 years for their good wool growth in a twice-yearly shearing cycle.

“The growth this season means we’ll probably start next month instead of waiting until December,” he said.

Murphys Creek’s Glenn Heather was another regular buyer, this year picking up two poll rams and a horned.

“They’re well suited to our land and give a good heavy cutting fleece,” he said.

Stud principal Norm Weir said the sale clearance reflected the current market34 of 50 lots were sold during the auction but several sold after bidding closed.

The sale average of $1420 was $15 up on last year and Mr Weir said that had been achieved without a high volume buyer.

“After a few sold out or switched to cropping in recent years, we have been without those couple of buyers looking for a large number of new rams,” he said.

“However, we had two new buyers this year from the Victoria Valley (the Grampians area) and a lot of returning farmers from across the local district.

“While the auction clearance was a little disappointing, that’s where the industry is at just now. You can’t expect much else at the moment,” Mr Weir said.

Bendigo Sheep & Lamb Market Report

Prices for trade suckers saw an increase, whilst sheep & lamb prices remained fairly consistent on previous weeks.

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

Glenn Heather with his horned ram purchased on Friday. LH PHOTO

Kerrilyn stud principal Norm Weir with top price buyer Brendon Lanfranchi and the 18.1 micron ram, one of two purchased. LH PHOTO

FEATURES | OPINIONS AND QUIZ

State’s Aboriginal agreements are not to be feared

By GABRIELLE WILLIAMS

AUSTRALIA is home to the longest continuous culture in the world.

Unlike many other colonised nations, colonisation in Australia took place in the absence of any formal agreement. And through a range of policies, Aboriginal people were removed from their land, disconnected from their culture, and killed in large numbers.

This is the truth of our history, and it continues to impact outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to this very day.

Governments across our nation have long committed to Closing the Gap – the gap in life expectancy, incarceration rates, child removal rates and economic prosperity, among other important measures.

As one part of this effort, jurisdictions have sought to find ways to reconnect Aboriginal people to land and culture, through land use agreements.

At a national level, there is Native Title legislation. In Victoria, we also recognise connection to Country under the Traditional Owner Settlement Act. For 10 years, under this Act, we have been entering into Recognition and Settlement agreements with Traditional Owner Groups about land use.

Recently, you may have heard about one of these agreements between the Victorian Government and the Wotjobaluk, Jaadwa, Jadawadjali, Wergaia and Jupagulk Peoples of the Wimmera, who together form part of the Barengi Gadjin Land Council (BGLC).

There has sadly been a deliberate campaign of misinformation about this agreement –misinformation that has little to do with this agreement or any of the non-issues it seeks to identify.

This misinformation has far more to do with an unrelated national discussion currently taking place.

Contrary to claims, the agreement is not secret. It is publicly available online. It was even publicly celebrated with a media release [fact check that].

The agreement does not place any legal obligations on local government. It does not impact current council laws and regulations. Local governments are independent of the Victorian Government and will determine their own commitments under the agreement.

The agreement provides opportunity for economic empowerment, and knowledge-building. For example, it offers Victorian Government funded

STATE PERSPECTIVE

Park Rangers the opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of the land they are managing and protecting.

It will mean greater engagement with people who managed this land successfully for tens of thousands of years, for the benefit of farmers and other landholders, as well as visitors to the region.

It supports economic projects like the Dalki Garringa Native Nursery, which the BGLC developed after purchasing the old Wail nursery in 2017. Dalki Garringa services clients such as Hindmarsh Landcare Network, Mallee Catchment Management Authority and Greening Australia, through plant propagation, seed collecting and planting projects. The nursery has created job opportunities and provided economic sustainability for Aboriginal people in the area.

Far from being something to fear, these agreements lift us all. The agreement with the BGLC delivers benefits for the entire Wimmera Community.

And yet it has been dangerously misrepresented in order to stoke distrust for political gain.

The truth is those misrepresenting this agreement are standing in the way of jobs, skills and economic development for the Aboriginal community. Something that delivers benefits for us all.

Finally, it’s worth noting that this is the fourth Recognition and Settlement agreement signed by the Victorian Government and Traditional Owners since 2010. If you weren’t aware of that, its probably a sign that the sky hasn’t fallen in.

So, lets embrace conversations about how to empower local communities and listen to First Peoples knowing that we all stand to benefit from a community where everyone is doing well. Let’s have these discussions without seeking to marginalise or pedal mistruths.

We encourage local government and all Victorians to work with us and Aboriginal people to deliver the benefits this Recognition and Settlement agreement will bring to the entire community –along with future agreements we might forge with Aboriginal people.

*GabrielleWilliamsistheVictorianMinisterfor TreatyandFirstPeoples

YOUR ONLINE WORDS FROM THE LODDON HERALD

FACEBOOK PAGE

Mr, Mrs, Miss shown door by council

NEW governance rules had been in place minutes before Loddon Shire councillors slipped up at Tuesday’s meeting.

1. Who wrote the Game of Thrones novels which the wellknown TV show of the same name is based off?

2. What spirit is used to make the cocktail ‘Mai Tai’?

3. In Alice in Wonderland, who attends the tea party aside from Alice?

4. The ancient city of Byzantium was located in which modern day country?

5. In which year was the first Tour de France held?

6. Diamond is the birth stone of which month?

7. How long is the cycling leg of an Olympic triathlon?

8. What nationality was painter Pablo Picasso?

9. How many books are there in the Old Testament?

10. Which Australian state capital city is the only one to not be named after a person?

11. In an orchestra, which instrument generally gives the tuning note?

12. Onboard a ship, what would be housed in a binnacle?

13. Finish the following

well-known phrase “I think, therefore…”

14. A hendecagon has how many sides?

15. The Ballon d’Or is the major individual award in which sport?

16. Which five colours make up the rings of an archery target?

17. What colour is a Welsh Poppy?

18. Which treaty formally ended World War 1?

19. What is the name given to the first full moon of a calendar year?

20. Name the longest river in Asia.

ANSWERS

Energy expectations

Sir, Readers may have heard DanielWestermann, CEO AEMO, talking about AEMO’s annual 10-year outlook for the national electricity grid.

The real message he said, “is that the transmission, generation and storage that is planned…. need(s) to be delivered urgently so that Australians can continue to have access to the reliable electricity that we expect as our coal fired generators are retired”.

Here’s a few more things that Victorians expect:

z Our electricity is sourced and delivered in a socially acceptable and environmentally responsible way, which does not

Leanne Talbot wrote: What a waste of valuable meeting time! Concentrate on far more important things ... such as making sure the correct road is gravelled instead of wasting thousands of tonnes of gravel and time doing the wrong road. No wonder the satisfaction survey re: the Shire is not where you’d like it to be!

exploit or over-burden one section of the community over others, just the same as we expect that things like clothing and coffee beans are sourced via ethical and sustainable supply chains.

z Risks from climate change and extreme weather events to our environment and the places that we live and work are taken seriously, and we expect AEMO to favour options that don’t add risk without being prepared to mitigate it or insure against it.

z Government ministers challenge their departments and AEMO to come up with the best options for Victoria, with a longterm view, not just to settle for the cheapest, expedient option, or one which can be reversed once an election is past.

z Accountability from Government ministers, and also from department staff and AEMO to give frank and unbiased advice even when their minsters don’t wish to hear it.

New Loddon Shire policy requires ‘nondescriminatory’ titles when councillors and officers speak at meetings

Leesa Catto wrote: Non-discrimatory? Seriously.

GROUPS have began their round farewells to the building that been home to Wedderburn sporting groups for more than 60

Annette Blanchard wrote: Bla Bla bla. Anthony Collins wrote: Really concentrat-

ing on the important things of running a local shire! Pretty good at putting out “rough surface ahead” signs though.

round of farewells

the building’s history and its role as a club hub.

A point of order by Cr Gavan Holt reminded councillors and officers that rules now required meeting attendees to use non-discriminatory terms when addressing councillors or officers.

Leonie Baker wrote: I have never felt discriminated against by being called Mrs Baker. I will continue to be proud to refer to myself as Mrs and for others to refer that way to me. If someone prefers differently for them selves I will honour that, but don’t feel ‘blanket rules’ are warranted.

z AEMO, as the electricity transmission planning authority for Victoria, should comply with the National Electricity Law and legislated procedures when developing plans for transmission options, in the same manner as we expect landowners and other developers to comply with State and Local government planning laws.

Julie Mills wrote: Just following the new world order agenda go woke go broke.

Australian Energy Market Operator is warning of summer blackouts

Mayor Dan Straub had just called for wellbeing director Wendy Gladman to present a report.

Jo Guthrie wrote: Personally I prefer MrsI’m married and that’s my choice - why is that choice taken away? Disappointing that this a priority and newsworthy when there are so many more things going on in our shire more worthy of the time and effort - like support for families with babies and the immunisation clinics that no longer run. Or the state of the roads, the lack of available support and services for people across the shire.

“Before the current clubrooms were built, the two football teams would change in an old weather-

His nod to Mrs Gladman went against new rules that require her to be addressed as “director Gladman”.

Cr Holt said: “I noticed we passed the new governance

Matt Catto wrote: AEMO scare mongering saying that the delays in projects are going to cause blackouts

Chris Young wrote: It’s their renewables that will cause blackouts!

z At the very least we expect that such planning decisions are reviewed, and the correct decisions arrived at legally.

I think these are reasonable expectations Daniel, and while I agree that Victorians expect electricity to continue to be there when they turn on the switch, I do not believe that they accept that this should be ‘at any cost’.

JimPhasey Myrniong

part of the Donaldson Park upgrade.

LEttER tO thE EDItOR

WAR WRECK CONFIRMED

Aimee’s dive into history

OLD American sailors held one final reunion in Arlington, Viriginia last week - seahands who had served on US Navy escort carriers in World War Two, Korea and Vietnam.

Their gathering was more than a final round of farewells to a now ageing band of brothers.

Only weeks earlier, the US Navy had confirmed discovery of the USS Ommaney Bay wreck site.

Sunk in a Japanese kamakaze attack in January 1945 off the Philippines in the Sulu Sea, Ommaney Bay had hinted at its watery grave for decades.

Final proof came with an approved dive down more than 100 metres by a team of Australian divers earlier this year.

And among them was Geelong paediatric physiotherapist Aimee Moon. The recently-married former Pyramid Hill College student and husband Chris McCran were asked to be part of a collaboration between Sea Scan Survey, a professional technical dive-team that works extensively in the Philippines and Geelong dive-school DPT Scuba to provide conclusive video footage.

The US Navy’s Naval History and Heritage Command used data to confirm the wreck was Ommaney Bay.

Aimee said: “Chris and I jumped at the opportunity to be part of the historic dive.

“To be among the first to go to the

wreck since it was sunk was historically significant.

“And from what we did, we hope we have brought a sense of closure to the families of men who died on the ship.”

A total of 95 sailors were lost, including two personnel from an assisting destroyer when the torpedo warheads on Ommaney Bay finally exploded, sinking the vessel.

“Ommaney Bay is the final resting place of American sailors who made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of their country,” said NHHC director Rear Admiral (ret) Samuel J. Cox.

“It is with sincere gratitude that I thank the Sea Scan Survey team; Mick Stefurak, Neil “Snake” Krumbeck and Joe Brothers for confirming the location of this wreck site. We would also like to thank the team of Australian divers from DPT Scuba; David Tipping, Chris McCran, Aimee McCran, Samir Alhafith, Heeman Lee and John Wooden for their deep diving expertise and assistance identifying the Ommaney Bay.

“This discovery allows the families of those lost some amount of closure and gives us all another chance to remember and honor their service to our nation.”

On that January 4, 1945, day, a Japanese kamikaze crashed into Ommaney Bay’s starboard side, releasing two bombs and causing severe damage. A series of explosions were caused by one of the bombs

that entered the flight deck and detonated below, among the fully-gassed aircraft in the forward third of the hanger deck. The second bomb exploded close to the starboard side after rupturing the fire main on the second deck and passing through the hangar deck.

The six DPT divers conducted six closed-circuit rebreather dives on the wreck in three days.

“As the first divers to visit this wreck, it was quite confronting to see the extent of the damage – and a poignant reminder that 95 US sailors lost their lives in service to their country,” said David Tipping, best man at Aimee and Chris’ wedding.

“Our expedition was on the back of the Sea Scan Survey team having scanned the site just after COVID shut our 2020 trip down,” he said. “Their research allowed us the opportunity to make the dives and assist with identifying the wreck.”

Aimee’s journey to a dive in history started with annual family vacations at Ocean Grove. “I was always a water baby.”

She did a diving course on a trip to Thailand and while studying at La Trobe University joining a student club that saw her

skills and proficiency increase. “I just kept diving, training for the different levels and building up over time,” Aimee said.

“The Ommaney Bay dive meant a lot to us. It was a great experience but also a very special moment.”

The dive also came with dangers. “If you make a mistake then and there and it’s a serious mistake, you’re probably not going to be coming back alive,” Chris said in an interview after an embargo on confirmation of the site was lifted.

Escort carriers were often dubbed “jeep carriers” serving with both the US and Royal Navies in the Battle of the Atlantic to deter German U-boat attacks on crossAtlantic convoys.

Ommaney Bay is a war grave under US Navy Department jurisdiction, now confirmed as one of 3000 shipwrecks and more than 15,000 aircraft wrecks around the world.

Details of their exact locations are a closely guarded secret. For Aimee and Chris, they have taken their love of diving to being part of a significant moment in history to confirm the wreck of Ommaney Bay almost 70 years after it sunk.

Aimee and Chris McCran

Escort carrier Ommaney Bay

Chris and Aimee on one of their regular dives and (above) the team that stepped into history Mick Stefurak, Chris McCran, Aimee McCran, David Tipping, Heeman Lee, John Wooden, Samir Alhafith and Ian Krumbeck.

DEATH NOTICE S

Martin - Denis Frank

19-1-1936 - 5-9-2023

Peacefully passed away at Boort Aged Care. Loved husband of Jean. Beloved father of Sharon and Kerry and father in law of Allan.

Cherished Grandpa to Callum. Brother to Ted (dec), Grace (dec), Ron (dec), Mary (dec), Laurie, Kevin (dec as a child), Kevin and Graeme. For Funeral details please see: www.adamsfunerals.com.au

Smith - Betty

Cherished friend of Thelma Goullet.

Condolences to Jenny, Denise and families.

Many miles and smiles spent together.

Treasured memories of a true friend.

SMITH - Betty Rose

Much loved friend for over 60 years of Janice, Neville, Darren, Leanne, Dale and their families.

Lost to know of what I’m going to do for my many catchups and cups of coffee. I am going to miss your friendship deeply, remembered always.

SMITH

A Thanksgiving Service for the life of Mrs. Betty Rose Smith will be held at Holy Trinity Anglican Church, Wilson Street, Wedderburn on FRIDAY (September 8) at 1 pm.

At the conclusion of the service the cortege will leave for the Wedderburn Cemetery. 25 Brooke Street, Inglewood. 5438 3189

PUBLIC NOTICES

ANNUAL RALLY

9th & 10th September, 2023

Engine Park, Racecourse Rd, Wedderburn

Adults $5, exhibitors & school children free (cash only)

Gates open @ 9.00am

Featuring 100 years of Farmall International Tractors & Howard tractors and Machinery Engines, tractors, cars, machinery, shearing, patchwork, full catering and much much more.

Supported by

Enquires to:

T Bailey 0427 583 341

L Goddard 0438 915 278

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.

MEETING

Boort Lawn Tennis Club

Yung Balug Keeping Place

The Museum is situated on the property of Paul & Cathie Haw.

Well worth a visit to see the amazing Artefacts collected from the Boort Region.

A recent addition is 34 photos taken by John Hunter Kerr in the 1850s. This was made possible by the State Library of Victoria.

Everyone is welcome. but please call or Email before visiting.

Phone - 0417 333 171

Email - paulcathiehaw@gmail.com

Annual General Meeting will be held on Monday 11th September 6pm at Boort Lawn Tennis Club General Meeting to follow.

Please forward any agenda items, ideas & queries to Anna Beamish boorttennis@yahoo.com

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.

Human Resources Coordinator- ref.J/236

 Full-time, permanent position

 Based at our Wedderburn O ce with exible work location options available

 Band 6 ($87,987.51-$95,316.86) – Band 7 ($97,998.75-$108,878.11) per annum plus employer superannuation

Flood Project Engineer- ref.J/237

 Full-time, xed term position (until 30 June 2025)

 Based at our Wedderburn O ce with exible work location options available  Band 6 - $87,987.51-$95,316.86 per annum plus employer superannuation Applications for the positions above will close on Monday 11 September 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 TO BUY

WANTED TO BUY

Old bottles with town or company names.

Marble bottles, Ginger Beer, Milk Bottles, Soda Syphons

Any old bottles - single items or box lots

CASH PAID ON DAY

Phone 0452 264 661

Monstrous putt does trick

WITH the course quickly drying out and a lot more run now evident, five players fought it out in the last round of the Wimmera Mallee trophy for season 2023 at Boort on Saturday.

After sinking a monstrous putt from the edge of the 18th scrape to win his knockout match, it was Robert Johnston who came away with the win on 38 points, two clear of Andrew Kane.

While Damien Lanyon was the unfortunate loser to Johnno Lanyon in the match, it was some consolation that he won the countback forthe last ball in the ball run from the luckless Alister McDougal.

The nearest the pins saw Julie Wilson hang on with her effort on the 8th

from Wednesday, while Andrew took home the rest following his fruitful day on the course.

The last Lanyon Fencing award was also up for grabs, and in the absence of the in-form Kevin Linehan, it was Doug Couper who pinched victory from him by half a point after picking up two extra points for his runners up score on the back nine.

This week is the closing day event with pizza and presentations at the conclusion of the day’s competition.

INGLEWOOD

Father’s Day golfers were presented with excellent course and weather conditions at Inglewood on Sunday.

There were no excuses for poor scoring and the group of five playing the stableford event all played some great golf.

Three players managed 37 points and very respectable scores off the stick. But even this wasn’t enough as David Patterson had an excellent day playing well below his handicap with 38 points. The club will again be running free school holiday golf clinics on September 20 and 21 supported. Inglewood IGA Community Chest.

PYRAMID HILL

Maree Ring was the winner of Sunday’s stableford event at Pyramid Hill with 39 points.

Boort’s Barry Kennedy at the last month’s Pyramid Hill cliub’s annual tournament. LH PHOTO

Reeves leads championship with two races left in series

WEDDERBURN rally driver

Brendan Reeves has teamed with brother-in-law Alex Gelsomino to win the latest round of the Victoria championship.

Alex and wife Rhianon were briefly back in Australia conducting rally driving courses when the Alex and Brendan jumped at the chance to compete together.

Following the round in Gippsland, Brendan now leads the championship table.

BRIEF

Rhianon said: “My dad Mike Reeves won the title in 1997 and 2003 and brother Nathan Reeves won in 2010.” With two rounds left in the series, Brendan is attempting to win it in his classic Datsun 1600.

Team in doubt

UPPER Loddon senior cricket could be reduced to a four-team

competition this season with doubts about Bridgewater fielding a side, said re-elected association president Wendy Murphy. Association clubs met for the annual meeting this week when a tentative season start was set for October 14.

Bridgewater club has its annual meeting next week.

The association has elected Peter Scullie senior vice-president Peter Scullie, Ryan Metelmann junior vice-president with Michael Rose continuing as secretary-treasurer.

Wendy said the junior competition was expected to return to five teams with Boort Yando back in the to competition after a season off..

Lighting up

NEW lighting poles have been installed at Mitiamo and Calivil recreation reserves as upgrades continue under Loddon Shire programs. Mayor Dan Straub said the projects aligned with council’s objectives of maintaining sports and recreation and open public spaces to enable and promote access and participation.

New surface

WORK started on Monday to lay a new synthetic playing surface at Calivil Bowls Club, funded by the State Government and Loddon Shire.

NORTH CENTRAL HOCKEY SECOND SEMI-FINALS

Under 12 - St Arnaud d Wycheproof Narraport 2-0. Goals - St Arnaud: Duncan Kirk

2. Best - St Arnaud: Finn Wilson, Duncan Kirk, Sam Greenaway. Wycheproof Narraport: Mitchell Coatsworth, Priya Coatsworth, Tyler Harrison.

Under 15 - St Arnaud d Sea Lake Nandaly

2-1. Goals - St Arnaud: Duncan Kirk, Hannah Stones. Sea Lake Nandaly: Judd Durie. Best - St Arnaud: Hamish Tannock, Chris Chaplin, Hannah Stones. Sea Lake Nandaly: Judd Durie, Angus Renney, Georgia McClelland.

Women - Charlton d Wycheproof Narra-

port

3-2. Goals - Charlton: Poppy Fitzpatrick 2, L-June Johnstone. Wycheproof Narraport: Shelby Giorlando

2. Best - Charlton: Trista Wright, Poppy Fitzpatrick, Tessa Fitzpatrick. Wycheproof Narrport: Rebbeca Coughlin, Keely Allan, Sarah Botheras. Men - Wycheproof Narraport d St Arnaud 5-3, Goals - Wycheproof Narraport: Joe Coles, Matt Hall, Corey Harrison, Ben Williamson, Marcus Williamson. St Arnaud: Dave Reynolds, Sam Male, Dave Reynolds. Best - Wycheproof Narrpaort: Corey Harrison, Matt Hall, Xavier McKersie. St Arnaud: Joe Watts, Pat Knights, Evan Douglas.

Carlie Turnbull (left) has won Wedderburn hockey’s best and fairest this season, a decade after last taking out the award. Carly, who returned to help the team out after several years off, is pictured with runner-up Cassandra Marr. New to hockey, Cassandra took on role of goalie this season and also coached the Minkey players.

IN

Alex and Brendan celebrate their rally win.

NORTH CENTRAL NETbALL SEMI-FINALS | SPORT

ABOVE: Boort under 17’s Isabelle Hosking outplays Maggie Wilson in defence.

LEFT: Boort A Grade vice-captain Carly Isaac wins the ball against Wedderburn.

Grace Hosking and Olivia Lockhart battle on the wing in A Grade. Bridie Doyle puts in a best-on-court effort for the C Grade Pies.Congested around goal.

ABOVE: Phoebe Henderson plays her part in Boort under 17’s strong defence performance against Birchip Watchem.

RIGHT: Battle in the centre between Regan Kelly and Kathryn Lanyon during the opening quiarter of the C Grade final.

PHOTOS - ANDREW PERRYMAN

LODDON Valley A Grade netball yardstick Mitiamo is through to its fifth grand final in six years after surviving a torrid finish against Marong.

The Superoos had the edge for three quarters in a physical contest that saw several of its players spend time off court having scuffs and cuts bandaged.

Marong came from seven goals down with five minutes left in Saturday’s preliminary final at Calivil.

Within a goal of forcing a second extra time for Mitiamo in as many weeks, the siren sounded as Marong goal shooter Mia McCrannPeters was awarded a penalty.

The miss gave Mitiamo victory by one goal.

Mitiamo had been forced into extra time in the second semi-final against Maiden Gully when the Eagles were able to break the scoreboard deadlock and win by three goals.

The tight victories - three teams separated by just one goal at the siren in two games - puts Mitiamo back up against Maiden Gully in Saturday’s grand final.

The Eagles boast best and fairests from the last two season Tia Webb and Meg Patterson.

Carrying much of the skill and experience for Mitiamo will be multiple Helen Ward medallist Laurie Hicks and centre Amelia Ludeman. The Mitiamo pair both polled strongly in last week’s league best and fairest.

While Mitiamo is the only Lod-

NORTH CENTRAL

don Valley club to make senior grade finals this year, the junior grade play-offs are dominated by local clubs.

Calivil has two sides in the jun-

ior finals while Bridgewater has two and Bears Lagoon Serpentine has made the 17 and under grand final after a nine-goal upset over Marong in the preliminary final.

LODDON VALLEY

THIS SATURDAY’S PRELIMINARY FINALS

A GRADE Wedderburn v Nullawil

B GRADE Boort v Donald

C GRADE

Boort v Birchip Watchem

17 & Under A

Birchip Watchem v Nullawil

14 & Under A

Donald v Sea Lake Nandaly

14 and under B

St Arnaud v Sea Lake Nandaly

BOORT has snapped out of a late season slump to defeat Wedderburn in Saturday’s North Central A Grade netball second semi-final.

The pace from the opening whistle as the association yardsticks went goal for goal. and scores were tied at the first break.

Boort’s Steph Wilson had her eye in, which meant a lot of work was needed from Courtney Gleeson at goal defence and Tess Jackson.

Boort pulled away in the second quarter by five goals. Great pressure from Wedderburn in the centre third, kept the ball out of Boort’s goal ring for a short time.

Wedderburn had great options feeding the ball towards goal with Holly Lockhart and Meg Lowry moving fast to the ball and positioning themselves to shoot successfully.

A great intercept by Roxy Train in Wedderburn’s goal ring saw Boort convert on centre, allowing them to take the game by six goals.

Aliza Lockhart was named the umpire’s best for Wedderburn and Steph Wilson for Boort.

In B Grade, Boort was pipped by Nullawil at the final siren.

There were a few nerves at the start as teams were going goal for goal. Boort settled first allowing a two-goal lead at quarter time.

Boort shot two consecutive goals

A GRADE - 3.15pm

Maiden Gully v Mitiamo

B GRADE 1.30pm

Marong v Maiden Gully

C GRADE 10am

Maiden Gully v Marong

C RESERVE 1.30pm

Marong v Maiden Gully

17 AND UNDER 11.45am

Bridgewater v Bears Lagoon Serpentine

15 AND UNDER 10am

Calivil v Bridgewater

13 AND UNDER 11.45am

Calivil v Maiden Gully

How close! Three teams in two games, one goal Twigg turns tide to end late season heartache

in the second quarter, with Nullawil missing opportunities to convert, allowing Boort to take the lead out to six.

Positional changes through the centre for Nullawil saw them bring Boort’s lead back to only two.

The game went to the next level in the final quarter. Boort regained the lead by four but with a few turnovers and breaking Boort’s centre, scores were even.

In the final minutes, Nullawil put the ball through the ring to win by a goal.

Best players went to defendersSophie Mathiske (Nullawil) and Montana Twigg (Boort).

Boort’s undefeated run in C Grade came to an end at the hands of Nullawil in what was a defenders’ game.

A smooth pass into the Boort goal ring saw them take the first goal of the day.

It took a little bit of time for Nullawil to convert. Nullawil found momentum and consecutive goals were scored, allowing them to take the first quarter.

An injury in the Boort camp in the first quarter unsettled them for a short time, but Boort came back to close the gap to five goals at the end of the second.

Nullawil’s centre Regan Kelly had her eyes on the ball the entire game

which allowed Nullawil to hold the lead and spoil Boort’s undefeated run.

Kelly was named best for Nullawil while Bridie Doyle picked up the award for Boort for her game at wing attack in the first half before being switched into the centre.

Boort under 17s are through to the grand final after defeating Birchip Watchem by five goals.

Birchip Watchem were first to put a goal on the board, with Boort coming back quickly.

Scores were even for the first half of the game.

Boort defenders Phoebe Malone and Isabelle Hosking had their work cut out for them in the ring, against Birchip Watchem’s sharp shooters Jenna Angel and Ebony Frank.

With a few turnovers, Boort were quick to use the speed of their mid court players to get the ball to their ring.

Birchip Watchem’s centre Maggie Wilson was hot on their tails the entire way.

Boort crept ahead and held the lead but Birchip Watchem were not conceding until the final whistle.

Wilson was best for Birchip Watchem and Maggie W (Birchip-Watchem) and goal attack Eliza Perryman for Boort with the Pies straight through to the grand final.

Tight at the ring ... Mitiamo and Marong play a thrilling finish in Saturday’s preliminary final. LH PHOTO

Metherell named new coach for Redbacks

WEDDERBURN has named Tom Metherell its new senior coach.

Metherell will step into the role at Donaldson Park after Sam Barnes told club he would not be available to coach in 2024.

Barnes, who also made a playing comeback this season and topped the club’s goalkicking, had been joint coach with Danny Benaim last year before going solo for 2023.

The former Redbacks’ premiership player had made his decision to step down several weeks ago and the club acted quickly to find a replacement, holding off its announcement until Metherell had completed commitments with Cohuna in the Central Murray league.

Cohuna, one of three clubs that had applied to join Heathcote league next season, had nine wins for the season and missed the finals series on percentage.

Pies straight into big game

BOORT is through to another junior season decider after defeating St Arnaud by 75 points in Saturday’s North Central league second semi-final.

The Pies had an eight-point edge at the first break before powering away in the second quarter.

Brodie Wagner was a livewire around goal, finishing the match with five goals.

The Pies had valuable contributors in Brodie Arnold, Alex Chamberlain, best and fairest Lachlan Hall and Alex Cockerell as they dominated around the ground.

St Arnaud was held scoreless in the second term and could only add another 2.2 for the day while the Pies kicked 12.9 in the next three terms to be big winners and make the grand final for a second successive year.

Meanwhile, Sea Lake Nandaly

NORTH CENTRAL SENIORS

GOALS - Sea Lake Nandaly: J. Jenkins 9, C. Cox, B. McInnes 2, T. Cox, B. Delmenico, J. Summerhayes, M. Elliott. Birchip Watchem: N. Gordon 3, N. Rippon 2, C. Wilson, L. Ryan, D. Castellano 1, P. Sheahan, M. Rippon.

BEST - Sea Lake Nandaly: J. Jenkins, L. Martin, K. Donnan, A. Mertz, B. Delmenico, W. Donnan. Birchip Watchem: L. Sirett, N. Rippon, J. Reid, N. Gordon, D. Reid, S. Simmons.

RESERVES

Tom Metherell

Metherell played the last two seasons with the Kangas after crossing from North Bendigo. He previously played with Eaglehawk in the Bendigo league.

Sea

GOALS - Sea Lake Nandaly: D. Hickey, W. Simpson 3, J. Clohesy 2, C. Allan, R. McGarry, M. Cahoon. Nullawil: S. Kelly 3, G. Forrester, J. Bowyer.

BEST - Sea Lake Nandaly: C. Michael, C. Tait, J. Clohesy, A. Collins, C. Noonan, J. Donnan. Nullawil: S. Kelly, A. Forrester, B. Hogan, M. Barry, S. Barker, M. Poyne.

seniors remain undefeated for the season after beating Birchip Watchem by 39 points in a contest controlled by the Tigers most of the day.

Sea Lake Nandaly scored 7.1 to 4.2 in a brilliant start to the contest although the Bulls fought back to win the second term, 3.5 to 3.0. Josh Jenkins, Luke Martin and Kane Donnan were best for the Tigers.

Birchip Watchem will now meet Nullawil in Saturday’s preliminary final at Lord Nelson Park St Arnaud.

The showdown between the Bulls and Maroons, who were premiers in the North Central and Golden Rivers respectively last season, will be intense.

Sea Lake Nandaly also won direct entry to the reserves grand final with a win over Nullawil. North Central grand finals will be hosted by the Boort club.

UNDER 17

GOALS - St Arnaud: T. Funston, J. Needs, B. Greenaway. Boort: B. Wagner 5, N. Scott 3, M. Beattie, L. Baker 2, A. Cockerell, S. Toose.

BEST - St Arnaud: B. Greenaway, T. Funston, M. Thomas, R. Bigmore, H. Darby, C. Zander. Boort: B. Arnold, A. Chamberlain, B. Wagner, L. Hall, A. Cockerell, J. Hird.

UNDER 14

- Sea Lake Nandaly: C. O’Sullivan, H. Cox. Donald: B. Donnellon, C. Burke 2, O. Brennan, J. Lydom, M. Burke, L. Davis.

BEST - Sea Lake Nandaly: N. McClelland, A. Renney, H. Cox, R. Allan, H. Wight, A. Alday. Donald: L. Rice, B. Donnellon, C. Burke, J. Lydom, L. Davis, M. Hollis.

PRELIMINARY FINALS - Seniors: Birchip Watchem v Nullawil. Reserves: Nullawil v Birchip Watchem. Under 17: St Arnaud v Birchip Watchem. Under 14: Sea Lake Nandaly v Boort

Deja vu in reserves grand final Combine success story of junior competition

MARONG and Pyramid Hill will play in a second successive Loddon Valley league reserves grand final.

The Panthers have gone through the season undefeated while Pyramid Hill has seen many of its players elevated to the seniors this season to cover injuries.

Pyramid Hill has been bolstered in recent weeks with the return of those players. Ashton Dye in the ruck and Mitch Gunther across the midfield have been strengthening additions for the Bulldogs.

Reserves’ leading goalkicker Rowan Pollock can usually be relied on to kick three or four goals.

However, if Marong cuts off play and stifles opportunities for Pollock, as it has done in recent encounters, the Bulldogs will have to work overtime to keep up with the polished Panthers.

Little separates these sides but form and depth across all lines does hint at Marong going back-toback.

THE club formed to create junior pathways for players aligned to three Loddon Valley clubs will play its first grand final on Saturday.

East Loddon Rams will meet reigning premiers, the undefeated Marong for the under 18 decider.

With players drawn from Mitiamo, Calivil and Bears Lagoon Serpentine, coach Jade Clymo had moulded the young junior club into a side that has improved beyond recognition in two seasons.

The Rams now boast youngsters who have picked up sen-

ior and reserve grade experience, skills they have brought back into junior ranks.

It will be a big ask to knock off the dominant Panthers but East Loddon should not be dismissed.

If the Rams increase their defensive focus on show in the preliminary final and take more accurate routes to goal, the game will be played with gusto.

The Rams have showed they can clear defence well. This will be crucial to keep in touch over four quarters in Saturday’s grand final.

Boort’s Brodie Arnold was named best in the under 17’s second semi-final victory. AP PHOTO

Rowan Pollock

LINTON JACOBS - Aiming for a second successive Loddon Valley league flag

NATHAN FITZPATRICK - Will he pull a rabbit from the hat and cause the upset of the season?

Underdogs bark at right time

By CHRIS EARL

MARONG will go into Saturday’s Loddon Valley league grand final raging favourites on its form over the last 18 months.

The Panthers’ statistics are clear: undefeated in their last 33 games, a triple figure average winning margin this year, again boasting the league’s leading goalkicker backed up by more than half his side who have had their names in official results as well.

The Panthers have been dominant, almost intimidating against sides on the rebuild, hit with injury as the cycle of country football goes.

Afterall, it was not that long ago Marong was just another side in Loddon Valley league. It’s record has been nearer the bottom for most of the 40 years in the league than most.

The arrival of Linton Jacobs as coach for the 2021 season brought winds of change to Malone Park that have since shaped the match-winning Panthers.

But every win in football brings a club one match closer to defeat and Saturday’s grand final lead-up was turned on its head a fortnight ago when Pyramid Hill - still then not at full strength - went close.

The Bulldogs, once upon a time known as the Panthers, gave the Malone Park incarnation of the prowling felines more than a scare.

Nathan Fitzpatrick’s charges did what only two other clubs had been able to do at some stage in season 2023. The Bulldogs at times were ahead on the field and on the scoreboard.

Inglewood and Bears Lagoon Serpentine had done just that earlier in the sea-

CHRIS EARL

Loddon Herald

SENIORS

Marong v Pyramid Hill

RESERVES

Marong v Pyramid Hill

son before being blown away by a style of football that can intimidate lesser rivals.

Pyramid Hill was no pushover in that second semi-final. The Bulldogs will be at full strength when taking the field in Saturday’s grand final at Inglewood. League best and fairest Dylan Collis will be back, joining the recently returned Sidebottom and George.

The Bulldogs have shown they can expose Marong’s Achille’s heel - pressure.

Yes, Marong can respond and they have the players to lead example - Robins, Gregg and youngster Davis.

The Loddon Herald’s tipster panel has also pointed out that Marong will have played just two matches in a month.

Sure, it didn’t work against the Panthers in last year’s grand final against Bridge-

THIS WEEKEND’S TIPS

GLENN CATTO

The Oracle

SENIORS

Marong v Pyramid Hill

RESERVES

Marong v Pyramid Hill

water but 2023 is a different kettle of fish.

Pyramid Hill’s defence has shown it can negate Grenfell. To win, that will need to extend to the array of equally talented goal sneaks.

The ruck duel’s will be crucial and how efficiently centre clearances are achieved will also have an early impact on fortunes for both sides.

Jacobs, who cut his teeth as an assistant coach at Bendigo league club Eaglehawk, has proven a master tactician week in week out.

Fitzpatrick is equally as calculated, known for being able to pull rabbits out of the hat.

A close grand final is on the cards. The coach and club weaving the greater magic will hold the cup aloft at 5pm.

Earlier meetings this season

ROUND 4

GOALS - Marong: B. Grenfell, R. Taylor, N. Devanny 3, K. Robins, C. Gregg, M. Riordan 2, J. McCaig, K. Manley, R. Tibbett. Pyramid Hill: B. George, J. Woodward 3, Z. Alford, W. Perryman, T. Brennan 2, S. Mann. BEST - Marong: L. Frankel, B. Grenfell, L. Lee, N. McCaig, R. Taylor, R. Tibbett. Pyramid Hill: S. Gunther, T. Hetherington, G. James, S. Mann, D. Morison, D. Slingo.

ROUND 13

GOALS - Marong: R. Taylor 6, B. Grenfell 4, K. Robins, N. Devanny 2, J. Davis, J. Gadsden, K. Manley, J. McCaig, C. Gregg.

BEST - Pyramid Hill: D. Morison, S. Relouw, Z. Dingwall, B. Morison, G. James, A. Holland. Marong: R. Tibbett, C. Gregg, M. Bradbury, R. Taylor, N. Devanny, T. Fisher.

SECOND SEMI FINAL

(109)

(85) GOALS - Marong: B. Grenfell 4, M. Bradbury 3, K. Robins, M. Riordan, N. Devanny 2, T. Thach, J. McCaig, R. Taylor, P. Gretgrix. Pyramid Hill: B. Carroll 4, Z. Alford, J. Sheahan 2, D. Collis, B. Morison, S. Mann, W. Perryman.

BEST - Marong: R. Tibbett, B. Gregg, K. Robins, N. Devanny, B. Grenfell, J. Davis. Pyramid Hill: B. Carroll, B. Morison, D. Morison, D. Collis, B. Micevski, G. James.

Past glories

Pyramid Hill has played in the Loddon Valley league since transferring from the old Northern and Echuca league in 1995.

There have been grand final appearances in the seniors but no flag. Those have been won by reserves and under age sides.

SENIORS

Marong v Pyramid Hill

RESERVES

Marong v Pyramid Hill

The Bulldogs last won a premiership in 1951, playing in the Mitiamo District Association. They have won 10 flags since being formed in the 1890s and at times have been called the Panthers and the Tricolours.

Marong officially celebrated its golden jubilee this year although there has been a club at various times since the early 1900s. Since joining Loddon Valley in 1985, the Panthers have won two flags1989 and 2022 - and were runners-up in 2004.

Richard Hicks

LVFNL vice-chair

Bailey George (Pyramid Hill) and Brandyn Grenfell (Marong) will be two players to watch in Saturday’s grand final.

PRELIMINARY FINAL DAY MATCH REPORTS

Rams build solid fence to block out forward incursions

EAST Loddon Rams outplayed Inglewood in defence to win Saturday’s under 18 preliminary final.

Inglewood had double the scoring shots in an energetic opening term but it was the Rams with the first game when Jaxon Addlem ran into open goal.

Rams’ defenders set up the lunge forward, Tom Harcourt leading the way and being named the side’s best.

Much of play from both sides was dominated by players who had also been in senior ranks this year - Gabe Nevins and Jaspa Wendels from Inglewood pitted

against the handful of Rams also showing the improvement that comes from elevation to top local level.

The Inglewood duo was backed up by Tyler Murphy, Lachlan Harris and Kyle McClellan and found better accuracy after the first break, working to a slender two-point lead at three-quarter time.

For the middle quarters, Inglewood and the Rams had gone goal for goal and pretty much behind for behind..

East Loddon dug deep for commitment in that fourth quarter. Ruckman Mason Hocking found an extra few centimetres

Bulldogs unleashed in stunning victory

A NEAR-FULL strength Pyramid Hill powered to a convincing 52-point win in Saturday’s preliminary final at Calivil.

The Bulldogs had the edge all day over a resolute Bears Lagoon Serpentine but showed who was top dog with a six-goal final term.

Pyramid Hill had gone into the cut-throat final without newlycrowned league best and fairest Dylan Collis, rested after pulling up sore from the second semifinal against Marong.

But back were bigman Sidebottom and Bailey George. At almost full strength, the Bulldogs grew in confidence and stature in every passage of play.

The Bulldogs were forward first when Jesse Sheahan kicked a poster and Serpentine took advantage into its zone for a goal from skipper Charlie Gadsden, quickly followed by Harrison Gadsden kicking accurately.

Pyramid’s defence was under early pressure but Tom McGregor rallied the troops who would

work all match to cut off lunges by the Bears.

Sheahan then goaled for Pyramid, followed by Scott Mann and Tom Hetherington.

Zach Alford, Brodie Carroll and skipper Steve Gunther were dominating around the centre, shutting down Bears’ Justin Laird, Kyle Zass and Andrew Gladman swinging between defence and forward zones.

If not for inaccuracy, Pyramid Hill would have been streets ahead at the first siren.

Bears started the second term sending play around the boundary when Gladman goaled to bring his side to within six points.

Another Gladman effort minutes later was offline and momentum swung back to the Bulldogs when Brennan snuck through a breathing-space goal and Carroll capped off a George dash.

A late goal to James Rippindale had the Bears still in scoreboard touch at the main break. Desper-

ation was high in the third term, Laird leading the tough tackling and spoils by Serpentine.

McGregor and James were standing tall in defence for the Bulldogs while Carroll, Sidebottom, Holland and Mann were making their presence felt. McGregor also had time up forward for a goal.

A late goal to Louis Mott gave the Bears faint hope at the last break.

That hope was quickly snuffed when Zac Dingwall goaled virtually from the opening bounce followed by a Sheahan roost.

Pyramid Hill probably missed a few goals in the final term - its players too far forward, leaving Bears defenders alone to initiate the turnovers.

Brennan had two quick goals for Pyramid Hill that made the scoreboard better reflect the difference between the two sides over four quarters.

- CHRIS EARL

Dye cast from reserves’ opening bounce

CONFIRMATION Pyramid Hill would have another crack at Marong in the Loddon Valley reserves’ grand final was clear from the opening bounce on Sunday.

The Bulldogs wasted no time quashing any hopes Maiden Gully had of winning the preliminary final.

Ashton Dye put in a pearler in the opening term, from the first bounce he directed play down to David Mann who kicked the Bulldogs’ first major of the afternoon.

It would be one of five goals for the term, Mitch Gunther running rampant across the midfield cutting off lunges forward by the Eagles.

Dye’s influence was not restricted to the bounces. Darcy Hetherington slotted the ball across to the ruckman who also put his name on the goalkicking list.

Jack Woodward booted accurately on the run from 40 metres out and then Blake Gibson capped off upfield work by Bradley Moon and Gunther.

Dylan Lovell and Rowan Pollock were among the goalkickers in the second term when the Bulldogs’ defence was only penetrated three times by the Eagles - all behinds although a late kick by Harley McCauley hit the post.

The Eagles, led by Hudson, Anderson and Turner refused to totally capitulate and outscore Pyramid Hill in the third

term. But the Eagles were also careless, poorly-directed kicks finding their way straight to Pyramid Hill, including a goal square kickout landing on the chest of Lovell who immediately converted to a major score.

The influence of Dye and Gunther was crucial to limiting Maiden Gully and again it was bigman Dye who set up another Pollock goal.

Nick Skinner quickly opened the Bulldogs’ account in the final quarter. Lovell was soon weaving his magic in front of goal, opponents shepherded out by Pollock, for another major.

Pollock would also bring up a goal in the final term as Pyramid Hill put the game beyond reach, a late goal to Maiden Gully only reducing to margin to under 10 goals.

and kicked the goal that put the Rams back in the lead, Noah Ramskill was using his body better at centre bounces, Addlem teamed with Harcourt, Cade Tuohey and Josh Diss constantly repelling the Blues.

Goals to Tyler Rasmussen and Mitchell Hancock suddenly extended the scoreline to three goals.

A late Nevins pass to McClellan cut the margin but time had run out for the Blues, Inglewood unable to have enough breakthroughs in solid fences of defence erected by the Rams.

- CHRIS EARL

SENIORS

Pyramid Hill 4.5

(58)

GOALS - Pyramid Hill: T. Brennan 3, S. Mann, S. Gunther, W. Perryman, J. Sheahan 2, B. Carroll, G. James, T. Hetherington, Z. Dingwall, B. George. Bears Lagoon Serpentine: J. Rippingale 3, A. Gladman 2, J. Podosky, C. Gadsden, H. Gadsden, L. Mott.

BEST - Pyramid Hill: T. McGregor, Z. Alford, G. James, B. Carroll, T. Hetherington, S. Gunther. Bears Lagoon Serpentine: K. Zass, C. Gadsden, A. Brohm, O. Downing, A. Gladman, L. Mott.

RESERVES

Pyramid Hill

Maiden Gully

(82)

(30)

GOALS - Pyramid Hill: D. Lovell 4, R. Pollock 3, N. Moon, D. Mann, A. Dye, N. Skinner, B. Gibson, J. Woodward. Maiden Gully: J. Doolan, H. McCauley, C. Sungalis, T. Hudson.

BEST - Pyramid Hill: A. Dye, J. Woodward, M. Moon, M. Gunther, H. Goodes, D. Lovell. Maiden Gully: T. Hudson, W. Anderson, S. Turner, T. Durston, J. Carmichael, J. Crisp.

UNDER 18

East Loddon 1.2

(53)

(42)

GOALS - East Loddon: M. Hocking, M. Hancock 2, T Rasmussen, J. Addlem, J. Rasmussen. Inglewood: K. McClellan 2, R. Smith, G. Nevins, T. Murphy.

BEST - East Loddon: T. Harcourt, T. Rasmussen, J. Addlem, J. Diss, C. Tuohey, N. Ramskill. Inglewood: Not supplied.

Mark Swiney keeps Pyramid Hill in attack during the reserves final.

LH PHOTO

Scott Mann goals for Pyramid Hill on Saturday.

LH PHOTO

Fynn Clymo clears the centre for East Loddon. LH PHOTO

FROM ONE FLAG COACH TO ANOTHER ...

YOURS TO LOSE

MARONG is poised join an elite band of Loddon Valley football clubs if it wins Saturday’s grand final against Pyramid Hill.

The reigning premiers are raging favourites to go back-to-back with one former premiership coach predicting a five-goal margin.

Calivil coach Anthony Dennis, who steered the Demons to September glory in 2017 and ended Bridgewater’s run of seven successive flags, says the 2023 battle will be decided in the midfield.

“This will be a a battle of the mids and who gets the cleanest delivery going forward,” Dennis has told The Loddon Herald’s Editor and The Oracle grand final week podcast.

He says the small Inglewood ground would suit Marong and give challenges to Pyramid Hill to contain Panthers’ Brandyn Grenfell and Kain Robins around goal.

“Marong is a top quality side,” Dennis said. “(Pyramid Hill ruckman Lachlan) Sidebottom and Michael Bradbury should have a good tussle.

“It will definitely be who gets

the hand on the ball first,” said Dennis.

”And keeping key forward quiet - Grenfell and Robins, keeping the delivery sub-standard and defenders rolling over (play) and cutting them out will go a long way,” Dennis said in analysing tactics Pyramid Hill could use to negate a side that finished the home and away season with a massive percentage of 578.73.

Dennis, who returned to the Demons this season, said premierships were won by the bottom five players in a side.

He said that if Pyramid Hill’s bottom handful outplayed Marong’s, it would be game on.

“But Marong have the runs on the board and if Pyramid Hill plays well ... Marong still has the edge ... four or five goals,” Dennis said.

“Whoever clicks first will take the cake.”

Calivil and Bridgewater have dominated Loddon Valley football over the past two decades.

A win on Saturday would see Marong retain its title and go one better than last year by being both premiers and champions.

The Panthers have not dropped a game all season and their last defeat was at the hands of Pyramid Hill early last season.

While Dennis says the 2024 flag is Marong’s to lose, other tipsters have gone for underdog Pyramid Hill.

Coaches Linton Jacobs and Nathan Fitzpatrick are expected to have full lists available for selection when sitting around the table after training runs tonight.

And unlike last year’s blowout result for Marong, Dennis believes Saturday’s contest will be a solid and entertaining tussle.

NETBALLERS SNAP FROM LATE SEASON SLUMP - PAGE 20

Words from a premiership coach ... Calivil’s Anthony Dennis

Connor Cullinan, Paul and Cheryl Green have been waving the East Loddon Rams colours throughout the finals series. They will be at Inglewood on Saturday cheering on the junior side in its first grand final. LH PHOTO