Loddon Herald 9 September 2021

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Loddon HERALD Vol 1 No 33 THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 9, 2021 ISSN 2653-1550

SHOO! ANGER AT ROO ACTIVISTS MELBOURNE and interstate kangaroo activists have bombarded local communities in a lastminute push against kangaroo meat processing in the Loddon.

BOORT Pharmacy has started giving COVID vaccines to Loddon residents. And the third vaccine in the arsenal of health professionals on the frontline of protecting local people as they #rolluploddon against COVID-19 is expected to be available later this month when pharmacist Daniel Snyder takes delivery of Moderna.

LATEST: Lockdown 7.0 ends tonight - PAGE 5

The animal rights campaigners have emailed Loddon businesses and organisations wanting to abort the creation of an initial 10 jobs processing the animals for pet meat at the site of the former abattoir in Inglewood.

But the message from many district residents has been a resounding “shoo off” to activists.

They have taken to social media telling the activists that kangaroos are a pest to local farmers and drivers on Loddon roads.

Hayden Steel said: “I’m all for it. Better to see them being used than wasted in the paddock feeding foxes. More jobs for town and the local community.”

Betty Jackel said of the plan

by Campaspe Meats to initially process up to 1000 kangaroos a week: “What a wonderful idea.

Kangaroos definitely need to be culled and also would create employment.”

And Robert Day said: “Surely all the people against this ain’t from Inglewood or surrounding district, Surely this is great for town.”

Melbourne activist Alyssa Wormald, a university administration officer and outer east resident, teamed with Adelaide

By CHRIS EARL

author and clairvoyant Robyn Opie Parnell last week to start the campaign.

Bendigo Animal Welfare and Community Services also shared an online petition created by the activists.

When contacted for comment by the Loddon Herald, the service disconnected the phone call but later issued a statement.

“We have received a lot of abuse this morning regarding this matter and are not engaging further apart from providing this statement and confirming we will continue to put our support behind stopping this facility start up,” the service said.

Ms Wormald said her campaigners disagreed with kangaroo culling quotas set by state governments, including Victoria and South Australia, and wanted kangaroos to be the focus of tourism in the Loddon.

The campaigners claim kangaroo populations in parts of Victoria would be wiped out within weeks if harvesting and processing were allowed and disagree with official Victorian Government population statitistics for the animal.

“There are more jobs by embracing native animals,” said Ms Wormald who has previously been part of campaigns against duck shooting and to save parrots.

MORE REPORTS - PAGE 6

2 | Loddon HERALD Thursday September 9, 2021

F

air crack of the whip mate, what’s the John Dory with that? If you speak good ‘Aussie’, you’re more likely to be thought of as trustworthy, in this country at least. But forget using the word mate, it won’t help you. That’s the news and advice from a study released a couple of days ago by the University of Western Australia, over in that far-away state that often talks about succession from the federation called Australia and where borders are harder to open than a rusty old rabbit trap.

T

HE study of human ethology by researchers at The University of Western Australia, found people were more likely to trust someone who spoke in the same accent. On the flipside, if you speak with an accent, your trustworthiness rating is likely to be lower.

W

e were specifically interested in the situation in Australia where you can hear all sorts of accents and it’s customary to use the term ‘mate’ to address people,” said study author Dr Cyril Grueter. “Accent is a pertinent social marker and can shape group preferences; non-native speakers are often perceived less positively than native speakers in domains such as integrity and solidarity.” Dr Grueter said it’s worth mentioning that the results were based on a single experiment and needed further investigation.

“Nevertheless, our finding that accented speakers receive lower trustworthiness ratings from locals emphasise the need to take accent-based discrimination and prejudice seriously,” he said.

W

E wonder if the greatest morphing of Aussie words was referenced in the UWA study. Austen Tayshus (real name of Americanborn Jewish Australian comedian Alexander Jacob Gutman) is best known for the 1983 comedy single Australiana, a spoken word piece which is filled with Australian puns; it is

Australia’s best-selling single ever that started like this: Sitting at home last Sunday morning, me mate Boomer rang. Said he was having a few people around for a barbie, said he might cook a burro or two. I said, “Sounds great, will Walla be there?” He said, “Yeah and Vejja might come too”. So I said to the wife, “Do you wanna go, Anna?” She said, “I’ll go if Ding goes”. So I said, “What’ll we do about Nulla?” He said, “Nulla bores me to tears, leave him at home”

A

ND what about the accent bit from UWA? We reckon those South Australians have always tried to be present the more urbane voice modelling, perhaps to display a sense of culture devoid of the harsh realities rooted in convict settlers who arrived in other colonies.

A

USSIE business consultant Winston Marsh had a bit to say about “mate” a few years back. “Lately there’s been an annoying increase in the number of people who aren’t friends of mine but insist on addressing me as “mate”. Now I don’t mind being “mate” to my friends but I do object to being addressed as mate when I am a prospect, customer or new acquaintance ... “Mister” or “Sir” if you don’t know me or by my name. It is not “mate” on first acquaintance.” Okay then ...

Share your yarns in Over the Fence loddonherald@gmail.com

FUNDRAISERS: Sara Nesbit and Ruby. LH PHOTO

Sara and Ruby step out in September raising funds SARAH Nesbit has a very personal reason for being part of STEPTember raising funds to help people living with cerebral palsy.

Her sister-in-law lives with the neurological condition and when fellow members of Loddon Shire’s community support team said they were doing the 2021 challenge, Sara jumped at the opportunity to be involved.

“There are six of us in the team walking our steps every day and at the same time raising funds,” Sara said.

STEPtember is called a fun and inclusive virtual event that

challenges people to walk, swim, ride, wheel or spin their way to 10,000 steps a day this month.

The challenge is also helping Sara regain her fitness after contracting Ross River fever in April.

“Every day I am now back to again doing 10,000 steps, all with the company of our twoyear-old King Charles cavalier Ruby ... she leads the way,” she said.

The area around Glenalbyn is providing the perfect walking tracks for Sara and Ruby as they tackle the national challenge throughout September.

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Loddon HERALD Thursday September 9, 2021 | 3

Virtual call gives a platform for show BOORT Show organisers are developing activities to keep the community engaged after the event was cancelled last week for a second year.

Agricultural and pastoral society president Madeleine Scott said the committee had hoped the show would have been a light for the community in 2021.

But uncertainty around lockdowns and ongoing COVID restrictions forced the committee to change plans.

“We are all going to miss the fun and engaging times with family and friends that makes the show an eagerly-awaited event,” she said, “And this will be particularly so for young people in the community.

“They have missed out on so much sport and other community functions during the pandemic, of time being with their mates.

“There is grief in the community that we cannot be together.”

Madeleine, who has been president since 2019, said the committee had been amazing in exploring every option and opportunity to present the show.

“We’re a community event that involves so many people - volunteers, stewards and of course sponsors,” she said.

“We went in further with planning this year (after last year’s cancellation). We had booked in the fireworks, the bands ... we were organised and ready to go.

“Heath Saunders had a great

Ask today: R U OK? TODAY is R U OK? Day, encouraging people to stay connected and have conversations that can help others through difficult times in their lives.

Take the time to have a meaningful conversation with someone who may be struggling with life.

R U OK? also contributes to suicide prevention efforts by encouraging people to invest more time in their personal relationships and building the capacity of informal support networks – friends, family and colleagues - to be alert to those around them, have a conversation if they identify signs of distress or difficulty and connect someone to appropriate support, long before they’re in crisis

Women on Farms WOMEN on Farms Gathering that had been planned for Inglewood in November was cancelled at the weekend. COVID restriction uncertainty forced organisers to make the decision. A new date has been set for the weekend of March 25-27.

New co-ordinator

WE WANT THE PEOPLE BACK: Show society president Madeleine Scott. LH PHOTO lineup for the truck show, We can’t thank him enough for what he is doing for the show.”

“And Loddon Shire has been wonderful with their support.

We applied for a COVID grant to meet new compliance costs which they had approved.”

Madeleine said plans were now

being drawn up to present a virtual show with competitions for photography, Lego and writing.

There would also be special show bag sales that are a fundraiser for the school’s parents’ club.

But while Madeleine welcomed a State Government an-

nouncment of funding for show societies to go virtual, she said: “The show’s not a remote event.

We want people back.”

“I have grown up with the show. It’s part of me ... seeing the exitement of people as the rides are being erected and the entries arriving from local people.”

Census officers have caravan parks on their list SOME local caravan park residents are still to be counted in the 2021 Australian Census.

They did not receive information before last month’s Census night.

But the Australian Bureau of Statistics said on Monday it was acting to contact local park residents.

“Census field officers have visited caravan parks to distrib-

IN BRIEF

ute Census forms. However, in some areas we have experienced staffing shortfalls and are still recruiting or redeploying Census field officers to drop off paper forms and to follow-up with households that have not yet responded,” the ABS said, “This has contributed to a delay in delivering materials in certain locations.

“We are sending Census field

staff into parts of Victoria from surrounding areas this week to address recruitment shortfalls.

“We are using a mix of local and nearby staff to help us get the job done in certain areas.

“Our Census field staff will visit the area to deliver Census materials or follow up dwellings who have not completed their Census.”

The ABS said that where need-

ed to work in the community, officers would work safely and following all public health orders and current local rules and restrictions.

“This work will be undertaken in a contactless way and will be in line with Victorian Health restrictions. Census staff are undertaking essential services and have exemptions to carry out field work,” the ABS said.

PYRAMID Hill Neighbourhood House has appointed Kim Bennett. as its new coordinator. She is expected to take up the position later this month.

Crossing works THE Boort-Kerang road south of Kerang has reopened after completion of the culvert crossing works

by Goulburn-Murray Water.

The crossing, near Normanville Rd, was closed last month.

GMW infrastructure delivery services general manager Warren Jose said the new concrete structure had been installed.

Spring firewood Firewood collection for the Gunbower Island and Guttrum State Forest (Robertson Break and Miller Road) this spring has been limited to residents in four municipalities, including Loddon.

4 | Loddon HERALD Thursday September 9, 2021

Wedderburn Health Clinic AstraZeneca and Pfizer vaccinations Phone: 5494 3511 Marong Medical Practice Marong

This is a call out to everyone across the Loddon Shire to rally and do your bit in our region’s fight against COVID-19.

This is a tough battle but with your help it’s one we will win.

The reward will be freedom from the constraints of rules and lockdowns and a return to normal life.

It’s a battle we must ‘invest in’ for the sake of our own safety, that of family and friends, and our community.

So when it’s your turn to get vaccinated, step up and do your bit!

Am I Eligible?

You can check your eligibility via the Department of Health’s Vaccine Eligibility Checker.

Website: www.dhhs.vic.gov.au/coronavirus An important community health message from

A LODDON HERALD INITIATIVE

AstraZeneca and Pfizer vaccinations Phone: 5435 2266 Marong Medical Practice Inglewood AstraZeneca Vaccinations Phone: 5438 3308 Boort District Medical Centre AstraZeneca and Pfizer vaccinations Phone: 5451 5220 Boort Community Pharmacy AstraZeneca vaccinations .

Moderna vaccinations available mid-September Phone: 54552044

Loddon HERALD Thursday September 9, 2021 | 5

Pubs’ pilot promised LODDON businesses are keen to hear details of a promised regional vaccination passport trial for the hospitality sector.

“We think that in terms of a trial for those sort of small gatherings which might be done in a double-vaccinated only environment, we think it makes sense

for that to start in regional Victoria,” Minister for Industry Support and Recovery Martin Pakula said this week.

Victoria Hotel Pyramid Hill owner Paul Carter said that if the pilot was available for local businesses “we’d have a go”.

Paul said it made sense for any

trial to be in areas without the population of Melbourne or larger regional cities.

“A lot of people here are already vaccinated and can’t wait to be out again socialising,” he said.

Meanwhile, Loddon Shire are no longer eligible for a cross-bor-

der extreme risk zone permit to enter Victoria from New South Wales. Residents who need to cross the border for critical work purposes may be eligible for a specified worker permit.

The State Government removed Loddon from the border bubble late last week.

Working around brown spots INTERNET connectivity is one of the remote learning challenges being overcome by some students at Pyramid Hill College.

Principal Fiona Moon said students living on farms in the district had become adept at finding the best spots for connection, “Whether it’s on the edge of the verandah or away from trees, the students are able to continue their learning,” she said.

“The (Education) department has also assisted by providing dongles and data for the students. Everyone is doing an extraordinary job, being adaptable and respectful. It’s a big team effort.”

Fiona said remote learning packs were being distributed to students weekly and and there were also regular family packs.

“The families are doing an amazing job with the students,” she said. “There’s a lot of great learning happening.”

LOCKDOWN 7.0 ENDS TONIGHT

Daniel Snyder and Anne Kane at Boort Pharacy where COVID vaccines are now available. LH PHOTO

Pharmacy on the frontline in #rolluploddon PHARMACIST Daniel Snyder has received his first supplies of COVID-19 vaccines in the national push to protect people from COVID-19.

His Boort pharmacy last week started administering AstraZeneca and expects its first supplies of Moderna later this month.

More than 1200 community pharmacies from regional, rural and remote areas are part of the

Federal Government program through the National COVID Vaccine Taskforce.

Vaccine eligibility continues to be expanded with AstraZeneca now being offered to people aged 18 and over.

Places have also been made available to every Year 12 and Year 11 student doing VCE to be vaccinated by September 19, the Victorian Government has an-

nounced. Moderna vaccine had been approved for adults 18 and over and the Therapeutic Goods Administration has now extended that approval down to teenagers.

Mr Snyder said Moderna used technology to induce immunitym, similar to Pfizer.

“After six months, it is proving to be 93 per cent efficacious against infection, 98 per cent

against severe disease and 100 per cent against death and that’s really exciting,” he said. `”The recommended dose interval is between four and six weeks with an absolute minimum of 14 days.

“We also have real time integration with the Australian Immunisation Register to streamline workflow and recording of vaccines given locally,” he said.

PREMIER Daniel Andrews yesterday announced the end of Lockdown 7.0 for regional Victoria, except Shepparton.

The authorised worker list will no longer apply. Businesses and venues can re-open with capacity and density limits and people are to work from home if they can.

Schools will re-open for onsite learning for Prep to Grade 2 and Year 12 students, Funerals will be permitted for up to 20 people and weddings will be permitted for up to 10 people, plus those conducting the service. Restaurants and cafes can re-open for seated service with patron caps.

Masks will continue to be required indoors and outdoors, apart from private residences, unless an exception applies.

The latest restrictions are in place until September 30.

VACCINATION LATEST Loddon Shire 1st dose 68.1% 2nd dose 41.3%

6 | Loddon HERALD Thursday September 9, 2021

THE KANGAROO DEBATE

Infrastructure ‘ready to be used’ THE CREATION of new jobs and using town infrastructure idle for years will benefit the Inglewood and district communities.

That’s the view of businesswoman Deb Hancock.

The Fat Butcher owner said she was excited that new business was on the radar for the area.

“It’s great to think that a building that has not been used for years will again have a use and

employ people,” she said. “The infrastructure is there.”

Deb said job creation would certainly be a boost for the town.

The Loddon Herald understands the town’s tourism and development committee is consideration preparation of a survey among its members.

Facts are being gathered to assist committee members in their discussions.

Several business owners have

said they do not want discussions overshadowed by emotive and unrelated commentary.

Some fear that without full information, the issue may become divisive.

Kangaroo harvesting has previously had broad support across the Loddon. Dingee branch of the Country Women’s Association last year championed a motion at the state conference on the need for kangaroo quotas.

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Opponents of the permit application have said they are against the harvesting of kangaroos. According to spokesperson Alyssa Wormald, kangaroo harvesting was cruel and unsustainable.

She also disputed figures released by government on kangaroo population numbers in several states and said harvesting and processing of the animal was “a greedy grab”.

“Sustainability (of kangaroos)

is the main issue,” she said. Ms Wormald said animal activist groups had strong support in regional Victoria but people were afraid to speak out for fear of retribution. She said more jobs could be created if tourism embraced native animals.

However, she said it was local people who were the ones to decide the selling points for tourism in Loddon communities.

- CHRIS EARL

Campaigners push out messages by email

THE MELBOURNE-BASED campaign against the Inglewood planning permit application has used its social media page to reveal a steady stream of emails to Loddon businesses and organisations.

Organisations have ranged from sporting clubs to other Loddon groups.

The campaigners have set up a petition as has Geelong-based Animal Justice Party MP Andy Meddick.

In a media release, Bendigo Animal Welfare and Community Services said: “The (Loddon Shire) Council planning department is responsible for ‘ensuring minimum impact on the environment’ so it is in their interests to reject an industry which is decimating our unique macropods as per the recent NSW parliamentary inquiry into the commercial kangaroo industry.”

“Loddon Shire Council would be wise to utilise kangaroos for their lucrative tourist appeal, which will bring consistent money into the area rather than a processing facility which will repel tourists and rapidly run out of kangaroos to process.”

Australian Wildlife Protection Council in a media statement said: “it will destroy the region’s liveability, peace and amenity and wipe out the area’s native kangaroo population.

The AWPC says that contrary to industry’s claims, kangaroos in Victoria do not exist in vast numbers. “Campaspe Meat Company want to process 2000 kangaroos every week. At this rate every kangaroo in the Loddon region will be killed in a matter of just months. If this facility is allowed to proceed, central Victoria will end up the same as regions in NSW and S.A where the kangaroo pet food in-

Application under review THE planning permit to Loddon Shire Council to process kangaroo pet meat at Inglewood was advertised in July.

The advertisement was in the Loddon Herald edition that broke news of plans for the Tarnagulla road site and creation of an initial 10 new jobs.

The formal cut-off for submissions was last month but they can be received until the matter is considered by council.

Council this week said: “The application is in the process of being assessed by Council officers. Following the completion of the assessment process, the application will proceed to a future meeting of council for its consideration.” dustry has all but wiped-out local populations of native kangaroos.”

The application is to initially commence with up to 1000 kangaroos a week, sourced from across Victoria and possibly New South Wales and South Australia.

The Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning kangaroo survey last October and November found the state to have an estimated 1.9 million kangaroos.

DELWP says areas with large kangaroo populations can experience issues with traffic accidents, damage to pasture, crops, gardens and fences by kangaroos and competition for grazing with livestock on farming properties.

Letter to the editor THE proposed Inglewood kangaroo processing facility will decimate our iconic species, insult Indigenous peoples for whom kangaroos are Totem, devastate our hardworking wildlife volunteers and distress all who value wildlife. The inevitably increased kangaroo shooting will risk the amenity and safety of regional Victorians whilst destroying our best opportunity for the nature-based tourism our rural economy desperately needs.

Kangaroo shooting is cruel as they are night shot in the wild without supervision making it impossible to ensure animal welfare. Experts estimate that 40 per cent of kangaroos are mis-shot and die agonising deaths. Joeys are considered a waste product and bludgeoned, decapitated or escape to die from exposure, starvation and predation.

The commercial killing of kangaroos is the world’s largest land-based wildlife slaughter. Contrary to industry spin, independent studies show kangaroo populations declining.

Notwithstanding the errors and biases in official Victorian kangaroo surveys, the numbers are concerning.

Kangaroo meat is unhygienic, which is particularly concerning as we suffer through a zoonotic pandemic. Kangaroo meat has a high incidence of parasites, toxoplasmosis, e-coli, salmonella and other pathogens leading to bans in areas across the globe. The potential health catastrophe for locals is exacerbated by inevitable smells, pollution and waste from the facility.

As someone who spends seven days a week, volunteering my time to rescuing and assisting shelters in rehabilitation in the shire of Loddon and Central Goldfields, I hope Loddon Shire Council will consider our national legacy and refuse to endorse the tourism-stifling, unethical, unsustainable and unhygienic killing of our gentle native creatures.

INDIA ARMSTRONG MARYBOROUGH

Loddon HERALD Thursday September 9, 2021 | 7

Love of young words DI ROBERTS loves sharing stories with children.

Growing up in the Loddon, local places and people have given her inspiration for more than 30 books and more are planned.

Di begin writing children’s books in 2018 for her grandsons Alex and Louis in Queensland and Elvis in London.

“Because Alex, Louis and Elvis live a long distance from me my books were a great way to connect with them from a very young age,” she said.

“As an interior designer I discovered writing was another way to express my creativity and give me an outlet from my busy life.”

Di says she had been interested in storytelling and art since a youngster and writing a book especially for her grandsons was a fantastic way to combine my two passions.

“But the hard work was just beginning, and I needed inspiration and ideas to initiate this process,” she said.

“As I grew up on a farm at Nine Mile near Wedderburn, I decided to set the ball rolling with my experiences and introduce some fictional characters and animals who lived there.

“I also wanted to pass the message to my grandsons about good clean living, education, eating properly, hygiene, having pets and dreaming.

“It is so important to dream and despite their young age I wanted to speak to them in this way.

“So, I started what was The

READY TO READ: Author Di Roberts. LH PHOTO Frog’s Hollow Series of eight books and the first one was Lucky Rosa at Nine Mile. My grandma, Rosa May Hayes, was the inspiration for my ideas, and I even used her name for the main character.”

Continuing the Bluegrass Station series, Di took the same characters at Nine Mile to Queensland where Rosa, her indigenous friend Harry and their animal friends spend holidays and learn about remote station life in Australia.

“It was extremely important for me to pass on this information, especially to my grandson Elvis in London who doesn’t understand what it’s like to live in outback areas of Australia,” she said.

“I also wanted to explain about our native animals and birds, to stress the significance of different cultural backgrounds was also another objective.”

Di personalised the books for her grandchildren who loved receiving the stories with them-

selves as the main character. I also sold books to grandparents who wanted presents for their young family members.”

While the stories are relatively easy to write, Di says the illustrations take more time.

“Luckily, I have a computer guru friend Kim Mansell who has helped me combine the narrative and images genius.

“My life as an author of young children’s books was going fine until one day my grandson Louis told me he really liked the books I was writing for him, but he was much older now and he needed big boy books.

“He and Alex then proceeded to give me two of their Harry Potter books to stimulate my imagination. I read the whole series and developed the 300page fantasy novel called Wicked Montymart Cemetery for them and their cousin Elvis.

“It took me a year to write, and while it was a difficult task to undertake both writing and illustrating, I thoroughly enjoyed creating this book.”

Di’s next novel will follow on from Wicked Montymart Cemetery, the grandchildren featuring as the new family coming to live in Montymart, across the road from the scary cemetery.

“Creating these stories gives me so much fulfilment and joy especially when I see the faces of the children when my books are given to them.” z The Loddon Herald today launches the monthly Bluey’s children’s page on Page 12 with Di’s books as prizes for the September colouring competition.

Local river camping rule bungle fury THE State Government is under fire over its implementation of new rules that allow camping on Crown riverfront land licensed to local farmers.

Farmers claim they have not been consulted about the first 27 sites, including spots along the Loddon River.

A Government spokesperson last week told the Loddon Herald on the eve of the rules becoming operational, that there would be more to say “soon” on site locations.

Victorian Farmers Federation said disrespect continued as

farmers are shut out of the camping site assessment process.

President Emma Germano said while farmers with licences impacted by the 27 pilot sites had been notified an assessment was taking place, they were not being consulted in the assessment.

“Currently licence holders are only being notified that an assessment is taking place on their licensed frontage. This needs to change. How can the impacts be assessed without speaking to the impacted farmer?”

“No one knows the land better than farmers who live and work

on it every day. It’s a no-brainer to involve farmers in this process,” Ms Germano said.

And Murray Plains MP Peter Walsh said farmers were furious at being shut out.

He said community backlash had forced Labor to backtrack from its original promise to open 17,000km of river front land to campers, to instead trial the changes at 27 sites, including on the Campaspe, Loddon and Murray Rivers, from September 1.

But he said that in a trainwreck interview with the ABC today, Environment Minister

Lily D’Ambrosio admitted the Government still had not done the work to confirm any trial sites or to consult with farmers.

Mr Walsh said it appeared the Minister had been caught out after claiming on August 6 that the Government was already “reviewing potential sites”.

“The Andrews Labor Government has botched this process from day one, with its lack of consultation only serving to anger farmers, licence holders, Landcare groups, Traditional owners and campers,” Mr Walsh said.

Local MP in final round deputy vote RIPON MP Louise Staley contested the Liberal Party’s deputy leader position in Tuesday’s party room vote.

Ms Staley made the final round of voting won by Caulfield MP David Southwick following a spill motion that saw Matthew Guy returned to the leadership.

Mr Guy, who took the Coalition to the 2018 election before resigning, replaces Michael O’Brien.

Ms Staley has been shadow treasurer and an announcement of the new Coalition frontbench is expected by tomorrow.

Murray Plains MP and Nationals leader Peter Walsh said the Coalition was committed to providing a plan for the future of Victoria.

“Matthew Guy and I as the party leaders want to make sure there is change in the state,” Mr Walsh said. Mr Walsh said being berated every day by the Government “there is no way this state can go forward”.

“With the Opposition’s leadership resolved we are committed to not just getting Victoria out of the mess in which Daniel Andrews has landed it but to making sure every Victorian gets to see our plan,” he said.

“A key part of that will be getting our children back to school, getting our hospitality and accommodations industries; and our tourism markets; open and back on their feet.”

Maitenance blitz on busy routes A NORTHERN Victoria road “maintenance blitz” has been announced by the State Government, including works on the Loddon Valley Highway.

A government spokesperson said road rehabilitation projects on the highway would be at Loddon Vale and Tragowel.

The Government said crews would hit the region’s roads as the weather warmed up, rebuilding, repairing, and resurfacing more than 390km of roads.

The program will target some of northern Victoria’s busiest and most important freight, travel and transport routes, it said.

8 | Loddon HERALD Thursday September 9, 2021

FEATURES perspective | quiz

We can achieve together PERSPECTIVE

AS YOUR councillor, one of my roles is to represent my community in council decision making.

This role is very important to me. I’m a strong believer in the power of communities to drive solutions to problems they have identified.

When communities work with council, it can help the organisation to stay on the right track.

Council is tasked with decision making on behalf of our residents.

With good communication, we can be guided in our direction by our constituents to ensure we are planning for the future you would like to see.

Many agencies and governments are now recognising the power of place-based approaches.

The Victorian Council of Social Services has written an interesting paper called Communities Taking Power.

It talks of building greater

community cohesion and resilience by working together. What a great aspiration!

Of course, council has to work within financial and regulatory constraints but when planning important projects we need to hear from community members across the municipality to understand what you consider important.

This will help us decide where best to put council’s investment of funds and allows for projects and services to meet your needs.

There are many in the community who regularly tell us what is important to them.

However there are many others who we do not hear from.

Maybe people feel that their opinion isn’t important but, if you live in Loddon, your thoughts and ideas are relevant and we need to hear from you!

Very soon council will be ask-

ing for feedback on our Council Vision and Council Plan.

These documents are very important and guide our direction over the next four years at least.

Please make the time to look at them and provide your comments.

We’ll also be putting out the long-term financial plan in the next couple of months. It’s another document which will impact residents and sets out where your rates are invested so be sure to take a look.

Helen Keller said “Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much”. agree with her statement and hope we can work together to create a vibrant and prosperous community.

Please take the time to give your feedback on council documents and feel free to contact me regarding council matters that are important to you.

governed by process and legislation.

Such consideration should not be clouded by cherry-picked arguments, emotive dialogue nor claims that run counter to official government data, legislation and regulation.

Perhaps we should be flattered

that people in Perth, Melbourne, Sydney, Adelaide and other places have discovered Inglewood and Loddon communities.

Their next challenge is to understand our communities where resilience is champion and new jobs and opportunities are balanced with rural lifestyle.

EDITORIAL IN JUST seven days, a cohort from across Australia has turned its focus to the Loddon.

They are animal rights activists opposed to kangaroo harvesting.

But while they may have passion in those beliefs, whether a planning permit is issued will be

e supports for Resilience

ddon Shire is proud to support e Farmers Bridgewater and the 2021 Run lience in Bridgewater. Active Farmers pivotal role across Australia, with a vision ding stronger and more resilient farming unities’.

ent is on Sunday 18 July 2021, and there is e suited for everyone, whether it be 5km, r 21km.

SOMETHING TO SAY? LETTERS TO THE EDITOR loddonherald@gmail.com

In line with COVID-19 requirements, QR code scanning has been implemented at Council’s landfills and transfer stations.

Before entering a landfill or transfer station, you must check in using the QR code with the Services Victoria app. Please ensure you have your phone with you.

Locations of landfills and transfers stations are: Boort landfill Off Boort-Quambatook Road

Tuesday 8am to Midday Sunday 1pm to 5pm

Dingee transfer station Lawrys Road

Low season 1 April to 30 September 3rd Sunday 10am to 2pm

Inglewood transfer station Inglewood-Salisbury Road

Wednesday, Saturday 8am to Midday

uncil meetingOur fortransfer June 2021 will be stations remain n Thursday 24open.

June.You may use the if you believe eeting will betransfer held atstation the Loddon your trip is essential. ouncil Chambers, located behind the

Newbridge landfill

Wednesday, Sunday 1pm to 5pm

Pyramid Hill landfill Ballast Road

Tuesday 1pm to 5pm Sunday 8am to Midday

Under theoff Victorian rburn Council Offices, Peters Street, Wedderburn transfer station Government’s rburn, commencing at 3.00public pm.

Godfrey Street health directions, access to transfer stations to dispose of household waste from a general tidy up is not considered an essential activity.

Thursday 8am to Midday Sunday 8am to Midday

Essential activity, however, may include:  disposal of waste from properties that do not receive any kerbside waste collection services.  where stockpiling waste on your property may pose a safety hazard.

Cr Wendy Murphy Inglewood Ward 0436 457 170

ANSWERS

Scan when you arrive at landfills, transfer stations

Transfer re information:stations are ctivefarmers.com.au/ open for esiliencebridgewater essential 2021 Council meeting change activity

or eattie Ward 2 468

1. What is the theme for a first wedding anniversary?

2. How long is the Loddon River?

3. In what state is Oodnadatta?

4. Where would you find the Big Banana?

5. How long did Queen Victoria reign?

6. How old was William Pitt the Younger when he became British Prime Minister.

7. What club has the second longest AFL/VFL flag drought?

8. How many categories are there in the Nobel Prize?

9 And name them.

10. In how many movies did Pierce Brosnan play James Bond?

11. What year was the first model of the iPhone released?

12. What’s the shortcut for the “copy” function on computers?

13. What is often seen as the smallest unit of computer memory?

14. What part of the atom has no electric charge?

15. What is the symbol for potassium?

16. What is meteorology the study of?

17. What’s the primary ingredient in hummus?

18. What is your body’s largest organ?

19. What kind of cells are found in the brain?

20. Which city in India would you find the Taj Mahal in?

1. Paper. 2. 392km. 3. South Australia. 4. Coffs Harbour. 5. 63 years and seven months. 6. 24. 7. St Kilda. 8. Six. 9. Physics, chemistry, physiology or medicine, literature, peace, and economics. 10.

Four. 11. 2007. 12. Control C. 13. Kilobyte. 14. Neutron. 15. K. 16.

Weather. 17. Chickpeas. 18. Skin. 19. Neurons. 20. Agra.

By Cr LINDA JUNGWIRTH

Cr Linda Jungwirth Tarnagulla Ward 0428 259 082

Cr Dan Straub Terrick Ward 0429 236 399

Stay home. Protect the health system. Save lives.

WEDDERBURN Please consider if your visit to a transfer station can wait until circumstances change.

41 High Street Do not attend if you are unwell, and ensure Wedderburn 3515 you follow physical distancing rules.

Due to Covid-19 regional DrumMuster drop off is T: 5494restrictions, 1200 currently suspended until further notice.

F: 5494 3003

Cr Gavan Holt Wedderburn Ward 0408 943 008

Event support funds Council has endorsed the establishment of a COVID event planning expenditure budget as well as an Event Sponsorship – COVID Event Planning Support Program.

The Event Sponsorship – COVID Event Planning Support Program is for events conducted up to 30 June 2022 that require a Tier 2 COVIDSafe Event Plan.

Under the Victorian Government’s COVID-19 Public Events Framework, a Tier 2 event involves between 1,001 to 7,500 attendees. (A Tier 1 event involves more than 7,500 attendees, while a Tier 3 event involves 1,000 or fewer attendees).

Tier 2 events have a higher degree of planning, with a COVIDSafe Event Plan to be developed. Increased activities during the event include security, COVID marshals, increased signage, and increased cleaning and sanitising.

The COVID Event Planning Program will provide sponsorship of $5,000 per Tier 2 event. Sponsorship will be provided where an SERPENTINE organisation can demonstrate the requirement to operate as a Tier37 2 event within the COVID-19 Peppercorn Way Public Events Framework and the application is received in advance of the event. Additionally, Serpentine 3516 the event scheduled must be conducted prior to 30 June 2022 and any unspent funds are returned if the event does not T: 5494 1202 proceed.

E: loddon@loddon.vic.gov.au

WEDDERBURN

F: 5437 8407 E: loddon@loddon.vic.gov.au

SERPENTINE

PLEASE NOTE: Office currently closed Monday to Friday 8.15am to 4.45pm 41 High Street Wedderburn 3515 37 Peppercorn Way Serpentine 3516 T: 5494 1200 F: 5494 3003

T: 5494 1202 F: 5437 8407

Open to the public, subject to

Currently closed to the public, customer support service available by phone

COVID-19 restrictions Mayor Cr Neil Beattie Boort Ward 0427 552 468

Cr Wendy Murphy Inglewood Ward 0436 457 170

Cr Linda Jungwirth Tarnagulla Ward 0428 259 082

Cr Dan Straub Terrick Ward 0429 236 399

Cr Gavan Holt Wedderburn Ward 0408 943 008

Monday to Friday 8.15am to 4.45pm

E: loddon@loddon.vic.gov.au

Loddon HERALD Thursday September 9, 2021 | 9

FEATURES

Four local people are taking part in this year’s LEAD Loddon Murray Leadership program - joining 72 other Loddon residents who have participated in the initiative since it started. Here they reflect on their experiences as the 2021 course heads towards completion

Developing skills with a passion community is in good hands for the future.

Suzi Birthisel Bridgewater I HAVE found the LMCLP Community Leadership Program transformational. The welcoming and supportive environment fostered from day one has set the scene for the participants to bond, share and grow.

What’s evident is the incredible passion everyone has for their community, and the strong desire to collaborate and work together for positive change.

Being surrounded by this type of energy is inspirational and makes one strive to be better.

The skills we are learning throughout the year are setting us up to be the most effective leaders we can be for our community.

Building relationships, deep listening and taking time to imagine what could be, before leaping into action, are some of the key takeaways so far.

The Loddon Shire is a wonderful place to live, work and play.

I aspire for our young people to have abundant opportunities within the shire to become the best they can be. For Loddon to be a place where lifelong connections are formed and a love of volunteering is fostered.

When our young people leave home to further their education or employment prospects, we want Loddon to be the place they return to, the place they call ‘home’.

If we can work together to achieve that, we’ll know our

Jessica Liston Eddington “IF something breaks your heart, it matters to you. Being able to work toward changing the things that cause you pain is one of the best missions you could embark on in life.” - Glennon Doyle.

I joined Lead Loddon Murray Community Leadership Program to increase my capacity to prevent youth suicide and increase youth mental health in our region.

Reading the harrowing statistics of youth suicide last year and personally loosing a close young friend invoked a desire to do what I could to assist youth of our region through the pandemic.

With support from the LLMCLP and the local community I developed and delivered the Thoroughbred Heroes pilot program.

This program has seen 33 youth attend a six-week program out in nature with retired race horses, allowing participants the opportunity to be vulnerable with each other and learn strategies to cope when faced with challenging situations.

An independent psychologist reviewed the program through pre and post surveys and the results have blown us away - the participants improved significantly in all four areas measured; hope, efficacy, resilience and

optimism. Currently in the LLMCLP I am learning strategies to seek sponsorship to support 500 at risk youth to attend the Thoroughbred Heroes program over the next five years.

If the skills that I learn and implement from participating in the LLMCLP can help prevent one suicide in the Loddon community then I feel that the benefits for the Loddon Community from my participation are immeasurable.

George Filev Tarnagulla LEADERSHIP is something that others have seen in me. I have been one of those that didn’t take the step back when everyone else did, when asked to step up.

The Loddon Murray Community Leadership Program has helped me find my leadership style and given me the tools to feel confident in the position of leader in my community.

Taking the time out to look within myself, and understand others, has been an important part of this journey.

I have learned the importance of deep listening, and in order to lead effectively you need to start with respect and build connections, then reflect on conversations before directing action.

We all have different experiences in life and strength can be found in diversity, not division.

The value of participating in programs like this is becoming a better communicator. The Loddon

Tarryn Smith takes part in the program activities and (above) 2021 program participants gather in Bridgewater.

Shire is facing many challenges ahead with the changing climate, pandemics, rural decline and food/energy security through changing farming practices.

To get through the tough times we will need competent leaders who gain the respect of the community and understand the issues.

We need community cohesion, and to ensure that voices are heard so diverse needs are met.

This means we all need to step up and be leaders at some point in our lives for the greater good of our community as a whole.

Tarnagulla township recently developed a Resilience Action Plan. I would like to see the initiatives from this plan implemented. This will require the community to work together and lead innovation.

I love living in my town and would like to see it thrive into the future. That’s the legacy I want to work towards.

Tarryn Smith Inglewood HEARING about the skills, knowledge, relationships, and wisdom previous participants from the Loddon Shire have

gained from the LEAD Loddon Murray Community Leadership Program was the push I needed to apply for program in 2021.

The program so far has greatly exceeded my expectations. From the very first day the 2021 cohort met to our latest online forum and everything in between I have always felt supported, welcomed, inspired to step up and put my ideas and understandings forward without judgment.

Being surrounded by likeminded and enthusiastic individuals with a strong passion for community, change and the future has been truly inspiring.

LEAD Loddon Murray has given me the skills I need to be a better leader for my community by boosting my confidence and enthusiasm I needed to speak up about things that are important to me and step back to give others a go – “By taking a step back, we allow others to step up and learn.”

My learnings through the LEAD Loddon Murray Community Leadership Program haven’t only benefited me in my leadership and volunteer roles but also in my professional and personal lives.

‘We need community cohesion and to ensure that voices are heard’

10 | Loddon HERALD Thursday September 9, 2021

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Loddon HERALD Thursday September 9, 2021 | 11

Key markets re-open and drive wool demand: AWI WOOL industry research, development and marketing body Australian Wool Innovation has given a special briefing to local farmers.

Growers from across the Loddon and central Victoria were updated about the state of the industry and future prospects for the fibre at a dinner at Raywood on the eve of Lockdown 7.0.

Organised by local Bestwool Bestlamb co-ordinator Mac McArthur, about 40 woolgrowers heard from Victorian-based AWI general manager of woolgrowers engagement Marius Cuming about the latest in the development of a vaccine for flystrike was discussed with the proof of concept established and many formulations now trialled.

Marius said algorithms were now being written for AWI smart tags to be able to send alerts to woolgrowers concerned about issues such as lambing trouble, theft, predation or metabolic disorders.

While the availability of shearers and woolhandlers continues to be a challenge, over the last 12 months, AWI has trained almost 500 shearers and more than 100 woolhandlers across Victoria through 180 in shed training

days. Any woolgrower can request an in-shed shearer training day.

“One of the positives from the pandemic has been the ability of learner shearers to be given a stand ad this has led to a doubling of the retention rate of learners and all learners being able to reach 100 sheep shorn

in a day within their first three weeks of work.” He said AWI had a large offering for woolgrowers seeking information across reproduction, breeding, genetics, extension and education which can all be found at wool.com.

“The future is exciting for wool given the modern consumer is looking for a natural, renewable

SHEEP MARKET THERE was a cut to lamb numbers after the rain, with 13,000 yarded at Bendigo on Monday or 4000 less than a week ago.

Quality of the young lambs improved to show more maturity and carcass finish.

Demand from processors was very strong, some chasing extra numbers to make up for a shortfall of supply further north in NSW after the Dubbo sale was cancelled and Corowa had a limited yarding.

Bidding for young lambs was erratic with some price spikes late in the auction as buyers tried to fill orders.

The overall price result for quality young lambs was firm to $10 to $20/head dearer in spots.

In contrast, old lambs were cheaper, due in part to very mixed presentation as tail-end drafts are sold.

Export weight young lambs reached $323, and eight pens sold above $300/head. There was a lot of sales between $240 to $290/ head for young lambs in the heavy trade weight categories.

The hot spot of the auction was 24kg to 26kg cwt young lambs, the best fat score 4 crossbreds, averaging over $290/head to record the biggest price surge of the sale.

The better runs of heavy young lambs averaged between 1020c to 1090c, with sales recorded over 1100c/kg cwt at times.

Buyers were still selective on plainer domestic lambs that were border-line for being slaughter ready, these pens mostly made $180 to $230/head.

Agents from Ballarat attended for the first time this spring, but there was only limited lambs to suit restocking. The few lines of young lambs to the paddock mostly made $160 to $190/head.

Old lambs were cheaper, and some buyers did drop back into this section to try and lower overall lamb buy-in costs.

The sheep sale was cheaper, with heavy mutton the most affected. Price falls of $10 to $20/ head on a week ago was common. One key export processor from NSW was again absent.

Heavy crossbred ewes made $190 to $205/head. More nicely weighted sheep in the 24kg to 30kg cwt section held their value better at $159 to $190/head for estimated cost of 630c to 655c/kg cwt.

SUCKERS GT,JA,RL & WA Exton Cosgrove East (60) $323, A,L,B & R McIntosh Wanalta (94) $310, B & J Tuohey Serpentine (55) $309, M & J Evans Echuca (92) $303, Lislea Lodge Picola (141) $301, SN & DA Collins Bridgewater Nth (80) $299, Mooraview P/L Rushworth (46) $298, WJ Matherson Wycheproof (44) $296, PT & KF Howard Goornong (123) $295, B & P Meighan Mitiamo (57) $295, Gredgwin Ridge Boort (40) $293, RW & AL Baker Dingee (62) $292, C Graham Family Arnold (56) $292, Womboota Past Echuca (56) $292, R & N Comer P/L, Drummartin (100) $291, GK & TA Turnbull Bridgewater (91) $290, DA & LM Broad Pyramid Hill (16) $288, GJ & GM Bremner Quambatook (39) $288, DJ & VA Couper Boort (59) $288, CM & LM Gallagher Neereman (19) $287, M & J Evans Echuca (90) $286, P & J McINtyre St Arnaud (43) $285, M & K Glass Nanneella (110) $284, G & I Watson Rochester (30) $284, AJ Wilson Boort (88) $280, Jacki Brown, Colbinabbin (30) $279, C & J Martin Inglewood (21) $278, M Hartland Goornong (39) $278, Goulburn Valley Water Shepparton (84) $275, F & M Schmidt Pyramid Hill (75) $272, A & C Branson Colbinabbin (50) $271, Scott Wright St Arnaud East (71) $268, C & D Liphuyzen Deniliquin (115) $264, CM & LM Gallagher

Neereman (24) $262, Daniel Miller Huntly (14) $256, O’Sullivan Farms Elmore (118) $255, DA & JM Lawson Bridgewater (23) $248, G & L Langley Newbridge (50) $246, Dave Pitson Bagshot (56) $245, JF Eddy Moama (28) $242, Gavin Seach Locksley (90) $235, M & L Burge Woosang (59) $234.

CROSSBRED LAMBS JK & MB McLoughlan St Arnaud (18) $336, Shipps Holdings Normanville (15) $317, Casey Farms Bunnaloo (5) $312, Dueron Past Congupna (33) $291, OST Moama (97) $288, R & B , DC & JH Pascoe Elmore (47) $279, DJ & EN McIntyre Wycheproof (26) $274, BA & L Kennaugh Moama (26) $274, McKay Bros Bridgewater (19) $274, PE English Muskerry (2) $274, NW & ER Davis Sutton Grange (7) $265, P & J McINtyre St Arnaud (32) $250,PM Hogan Nullawil (6) $229, Nutbyrne P/L Knowsley (56) $224.

MERINO LAMBS DJ & EN McIntyre Wycheproof (28) $230, KP & EV Sait Charlton (102) $214, Meadow Valley Farms Mia Mia (35) $206.

MERINO WETHERS RM McLean Rushworth (162) $277, RH,J,D & R McNutt Knowsley (105) $199, Woodlands Lancefield (147) $198, R & M Hartley Lockington (51) $186, Artridge Alexandra (134) $144.

CROSSBRED EWES WL,LG & RK Boyd Mitiamo (28) $220, Monmore P/L Woodstock (108) $210, M Hartland Goornong (115) $210, AR Petersen Newstead (9) $210, R & R Seach Molka (46) $205, Ilfracombe Donald (51) $200, EK & SJ Stone Eastville (13) $200, J & L Cartwright Auchmore (20) $200, Hopegrange Bagshot (30) $200, J Mayes Mia Mia (11) $195, PE English Muskerry (40) $195, J & L Cartwright Auchmore (16) $195, Montrose Produce Raywood (50) $195, WH,EI & NW Punton Shelbourne (9) $195, Western Vale Farms P/L Axedale (24) $195, Chartwell Farms , Romsey (36) $194, MN Isaac Powlett Plains (23) $170.

MERINO EWES DJ & VA Couper Boort (118) $209, P & V Mortlock Campelltown (47) $195, BT Coates & Sons St Arnaud (78) $191, C & D Liphuyzen Deniliquin (62) $190, Metelmann Families Newbridge (75) $190, DWJ & M Turnbull Dumosa (40) $186, M & L Burge, Woosang (32) $166, K & T Flood, Shelbourne (51) $163.00

biodegradable fibre,” he said.

“The global pandemic has significantly changed the way the natural fibre is marketed around the world via the famous Woolmark, with digital campaigns allowing consumers to directly purchase garments from within video and other online content.

“This has been particularly successful in China, a country where 80 per cent of Australian wool is processed but half of this is ultimately consumed there.

“As key markets in Europe, North America and Asia are vaccinated and open back up, demand for wool is also lifting as is the purchase of clothing to attend events long delayed due to the pandemic.

Marius said knitwear had not been hit as hard as the traditional suiting markets through COVID given the subsequent drop in demand for tailored suiting.

“Many new innovative garments have been created that have successfully put wool into this changing global market of casualisation, sport and activewear, commuter-wear and next to skin knitwear.

“The woolgrowers on the night got to see some of these amazing new garments,” he said.

Anthony Judd

Department’s new director ANTHONY Judd is the new regional director of the Loddon Mallee region for the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning Mr Judd will oversee the region’s delivery of key programs, from October 11, succeeding Marg Allan, who retired in July.

For the past 15 years, Mr Judd has served in various management and leadership roles within Buloke Shire Council, most recently serving as CEO of the council since 2018.

He also holds several key leadership positions such as Member of Mallee Regional Partnerships Board since 2018, Secretary of Rural Councils Victoria since 2019 and is a committee member on the DELWP Local Government Act Implementation Steering Committee. He has also volunteered in a number of community groups and has been the senior coach of the Charlton football team.

Growth prompts bloat warning

WITH the flush of spring growth, bloat can become a distinct possibility.

Bloat occurs in cattle following the rapid consumption of lush, fast growing, immature, legume (clover or lucerne) dominant pastures.

It is seen much less commonly on grass dominant pastures.

Bloat is caused by an increase in gas pressure within the rumen (paunch) as the feeds are fermented.

The gas builds up in the rumen as small bubbles or foam that cannot be belched out when the animal chews it’s cud.

The first sign of bloat is a tight distended abdomen particularly on the left side.

On occasions, the only indication of trouble is bloated animals’ dead in the paddock.

Death occurs due to the pressure of the rumen on the lungs and major blood vessels leading to lung and heart failure.

Death from bloat can occur quickly, sometimes within 30 minutes of grazing pastures at risk, therefore the emphasis must be on prevention rather than treatment post the incident.

Hungry cattle should be prevented from gorging themselves on at-risk pastures, therefore, feed-out hay prior to introducing cattle onto possibly hazardous paddocks.

In addition, a range of treatments are available to help pre-

vent bloat. These include bloat blocks, bloat licks, medicated water supply, drenching and pasture spraying.

The suitability of each treatment approach varies dependent on the circumstances.

Many bloat deaths may actually be caused by pulpy kidney.

Bloat slows down the passage of food through the gut allowing the pulpy kidney bacteria to multiply and kill the cow.

All cattle should have an annual vaccination for pulpy kidney and other clostridia.

The best time to vaccinate is before a high-risk period such as spring.

Dr Jeff Cave Senior Veterinary Officer, Agricuture Victoria

GRAIN Boort Grain Co-op prices as at Tuesday.

Wheat - HL1 $323 FOT. APW1 $323 FOT. ASW $323 FOT. .

Barley - PL1 $248 FOT. SP1$248 FOT. BAR1 $248 FOT. Pulses - FABA1 $373.

FABA2 $363.

New crop - APW MG $295 ASW. BAR1 $240. FABA beans No 1 $370.

12 | Loddon HERALD Thursday September 9, 2021

ANIMALSWORD WORD SCRAMBLE ANIMAL

Bluey says ...

PrintableParadise.com

Hi and welcome to my Puzzle Patch, a special page just for our young readers.

Every month I’ll put togther puzzles and brainteasers for you. There’ll also be a drawing to colour-in and send to us here at the Loddon Herald for your chance to win a special prize. Our prizes for September will be books by Loddon children’s author Di Roberts.

I’m told my name Bluey comes from the many gum leaves found around our towns in the Loddon, the places where we live.

While you have been at home remote learning (I’m working from home too!), I hope you’ve been able to spend more time having fun exploring our local area. It’s a wonderful place to be in spring.

I hope you are getting all your school tasks done and tidying your rooms after each day of study and lessons, helping around the home as well.

And if you have any stories to share, I’ll always try and find room on your special page in the Loddon Herald.

Your friend, Bluey earbve uagrco lwaurs utrlte lgroali occriolde luffboa grite osmopus oirocsrnhe lrtoalgai penheatl macle lworvenie yoctoe riefgaf myoekn nkaoaogr nccoaro daaakrvr

beaver cougar walrus turtle gorilla crocodile buffalo tiger opossum rhinoceros alligator elephant camel wolverine coyote giraffe monkey kangaroo raccoon aardvark

ANIMALSWORD WORD SCRAMBLE ANIMAL SCRAMBLE

COLOUR-IN: Post to Loddon Herald PO Box 1188 Kangaroo Flat or email loddonherald@gmail.com

by September 30. Winner announced next month.

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earbve uagrco lwaurs utrlte lgroali occriolde luffboa grite osmopus oirocsrnhe lrtoalgai penheatl macle lworvenie yoctoe riefgaf myoekn nkaoaogr nccoaro daaakrvr

PrintableParadise.com

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Loddon HERALD Thursday September 9, 2021 | 13

Lockdown break for local market

Low interest loans VICTORIAN councils will now have greater access to low-interest loans to support the development of key infrastructure and other projects, the State Government has announced. Acting Minister for Local Government Mary-Anne Thomas said the new Local Council Lending Framework would give councils access to lower interest rates financed through the Treasury Corporation of Victoria. Loans can be used for working capital and project-specific infrastructure investments.

INGLEWOOD’S monthly market has been cancelled for September amid ongoing COVID restrictions.

The local Lions Club re-booted the market in Brooke Street three months ago and had a higher number of stalls in August.

Among stallholders was St Arnaud’s Ian Baker selling heritage signs ideal for man caves.

Ian had a steady stream of customers during the morning, many popping across to his stall after enjoying a famous Lions sausage in bread or egg and bacon roll for breakfast.

The club says it hopes to resume monthly markets as soon as restrictions allow.

BUSINESS, TRADES & SERVICES

Focus on natural lines CAREY Ims moved her Horse World business to Inglewood six years ago.

“As an independent saddlery, we have always carried a wide array of products not only catering to the equine sector, but also stock and domestic animals, all the way through to humans,” she said.

“We have always maintained a keen focus on natural products and remedies.”

And Carey has an outstanding commitment to a high level of customer service and loves interacting with clients.

“It’s about helping them enjoy their pastimes,” Carey said.

Carey’s Brooke Street business is also a showcase for local artisans.

“In line with the customer service focused approach that the business takes, I enjoy networking with local artisans, creating space to showcase their talents,” Carey said.

“The one thing I would say to everybody is come in and have a look around as I’m sure there is something for everyone.”

ADVERTISE IN THE DIRECTORY - $66 A MONTH. PHONE 0419549743

14 | Loddon HERALD Thursday September 9, 2021

Loddon HERALD CLASSIFIEDS Deadline - Tuesdays 4pm - Phone 0419 549 743 or email loddonherald@gmail.com PUBLIC NOTICES

EMPLOYMENT

Louise STALEY MP LIBERAL MEMBER FOR RIPON

Shadow Treasurer | Shadow Minister for Economic Development LouiseStaley.com.au

LouiseStaleyRipon

LouiseStaley

At its Ordinary Meeting held on 24 June 2021, Loddon Shire Council resolved that the 2021/22 Budget be adopted in line with Council’s Community Engagement Policy.

The adopted Budget is available for download from Council’s website at www.loddon.vic.gov.au.

Copies of the adopted Budget are available for inspection during normal operating hours at the Shire Offices in Wedderburn and Serpentine.

Anyone requiring further information on the Budget should contact Deanne Caserta, Manager Financial Services on 5494 1200.

Phil Pinyon Chief Executive Officer

CAREERS AT LODDON

Authorised by Louise Staley MP, 177 High Street, Maryborough 3465. Funded from Parliamentary Budget.

Wedderburn & District Harness Racing Club Due to Covid Restrictions NO CROWD IS ALLOWED At Donaldson Park Harness Racing Meeting 12th SEPTEMBER 2021.

Located in a unique and wonderful part of Central Victoria, about 175 kilometres northwest of Melbourne, Loddon Shire is home to over 7500 residents, and supports a vibrant and growing agribusiness and horticulture sector.

Our vision is to be a prosperous, vibrant and engaged community and we deliver a broad range of programs and services to enhance the sustainability and liveability for the community.

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

IT WAS another Father’s Day in COVID lockdown for Loddon dads on Sunday but thanks to school activities, there were still special moments to share.

Community Care Workers – ref.J/102 Vision is available at www.thetrots.com.au Trots Vision Members’ Draw will be on Facebook T Nisbet Secretary W & DHRC

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Permanent, part-time roles – range of hours available  Band 3 - $28.64 per hour  Location – Shire-wide 

Circulating throughout communities in the Loddon Shire

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The Loddon Herald is published by Muso’s Media Pty Ltd, PO Box 1188, Kangaroo Flat, 3555, and printed for the publishers by Newsprinters Pty Ltd McKoy Street, West Wodonga, VIC 3690

www.loddonherald.com.au

And for students from St Mary’s in Inglewood (left), they shared time making new string-art creations.

Statutory Planning Coordinator – ref.J/100   

Youngsters across the Loddon certainly made sure dads enjoyed their special day.

Permanent, either part-time or full-time Salary negotiable Location – Wedderburn office with some opportunity to work remotely Applications for the positions above will be assessed as they are received.

Loddon HERALD FREE EVERY THURSDAY

At St Patrick’s in Pyramid Hill (above), students took home all the ingredients to make dads a delicious breakfast with lots of love - bacon, sausages, eggs, hash browns, tomatoes and bread.

Community Care Workers – ref. J/105

REVELATION The last book of the Bible is a prophetic vision given to the apostle John 2000 years ago.

This book needs to be read and wherever possible understood

Casual position Band 3 - $35.80 per hour inclusive of casual loading Location – Shire-wide

Water Truck Driver – ref.no J/101 Full-time permanent role with a fortnightly rostered day off  Loddon Plains team (North end of Shire)  Classification – Water Truck Driver on commencement – $32.31 per hour 

Volunteer Coordinator – ref.no J/104 Twelve months fixed-term, part-time – 24 hours per week (3 days)  Band 6 - $42.67 per hour  Location: Wedderburn Office 

Applications for the above positions will close on Monday 20 September 2021.

For further information in regard to these positions including a detailed position description please visit Council’s website www.loddon.vic.gov.au or contact Council’s Organisational Development Unit on (03) 5494 1202.

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Loddon HERALD Thursday September 9, 2021 | 15

SPORT

Vicky small club voice in new region bowls group THERE is a new administrative structure for bowls in the region.

And Inglewood club treasurer Vicky Tierney is one of nine directors guiding Bendigo Campaspe Goldfields Bowls Region.

Vicky is also the only member representing one of the old Bendigo division’s smaller clubs in the new region that now stretches from Avoca to Deniliquin.

Vicky has also taken on the role of board treasurer.

She said the new structure aimed to improve governance of the sport in the regions and also reduce the commitment required of volunteers.

Vicky says she is determined to ensure the voice of small clubs continues to be heard leading up to the start of season 2021-2022 on October 16 and throughout her two-year term.

“For most bowlers, they will not notice any change under the structure. Pennant competitions will still be played in the local areas ... most of the changes are purely administrative,” she said.

“But it remains important to be out with the clubs and getting their feedback on what is happening.

“We must look at all levels of the sport in the region.”

Vicky said much time had been spent since the new region was created in July on rules and governance.

“And we’ve also been looking at a new region logo for our shirts,” she said.

Before the new regional structure, Vicky had spent two years involved at Bendigo division level.

The region has 41 clubs - 22 from the Bendigo area, 11 from Campaspe and eight from Goldfields based on Maryborough.

Under the previous Bowls

Inglewood bowler Vicky Tierney is part of the new regional bowls board. LH PHOTO Victoria structure Bendigo and Campaspe Valley had been linked together as a region, but ran independently.

Vicky said bowlers were hopeful of an on-time start to the new season, frustrated they had been unable to play as usual this year.

“Rules have been adapted, too, because of COVID and perhaps some of the social side has disappeared - we were playing 25 ends with a break for afternoon tea where we could sit and talk

Season on cusp of being abandoned LODDON Valley league season is possibly days from being abandoned.

The league’s discussion paper to clubs has September 18 as the final date to play a grand final, the option where the top two meet to decide the season.

Unless an announcement is made by the State Government today or tomorrow, the league’s second option will fall over.

The option has a semi-finals of first (Mitiamo) playing fourth (Pyramid Hill) and Marong (second) meeting Bridgewater (third) in senior football.

Clubs are becoming increasingly concerned that the long lay-off between games and lack of match fitness may have already ended the season.

Officials have told the Loddon Herald that the longer the break, the greater the risk of injury to players if finals did proceed.

League president Simon Tuohey said the board continued to monitor the status of lockdowns and restrictions.

Send your sports news and results to loddonherald@gmail.com by 4pm Mondays

... it was great to hear how farmers’ crops were going. Now it’s 21 ends without that same break,” she said.

Vicky returned to bowls in 2015, firstly at Bridgewater and for the last two years at Inglewood.

Other members of the new board are president Paul Moller (Kangaroo Flat), secretary Geoff Howes (Kangaroo Flat) and directors Robert Jackson (Talbot), Gregory Dobbin (Dunolly), Greg

Watkins (Rochester), Stuart Whyte (Moama) and Pat Schram (Echuca).

Loddon teams in the region’s Saturday pennant this season are Inglewood (Division 1 and 5), Serpentine (5), Dingee (5), Bridgewater (6) and Calivil (5).

Mid-week teams playing on Mondays are Inglewood (1 and 5), Bridgewater (4), with the Calivil-Serpentine combination and Dingee also competing in division four.

Days tick away on final plans NORTH Central league has locked in a season finish for AFL grand final weekend.

Board members met again late last week to put finishing touches to a plan to conclude the COVID-lockdown disrupted season.

But with play increasingly unlikely this weekend, the league’s first option has likely disappeared.

President Tim Lockhart said everyone had agreed “that we could not extend beyond September 25. Understanding that this is AFL Grand Final day, the NCFL board will work around times of matches being concluded prior to any twilight games being played in the west.”

If play is possible next weekend, Sea Lake Nandaly will play Donald at Charlton on Saturday and Birchip Watchem will meet Wedderburn at Donald on the Sunday.

However, there remains doubt that Donald will be able to field a day, forfeiting the last home and away game played because Melbourne-based players were in lockdown. Donald has 12 players on its list from Melbourne.

Under the two options still live, the grand final will either be between the semi-final winners or a match between reigning premiers Sea Lake and Birchip Watchem.

Lockhart said the league would keep options open until “all avenues have been exhausted or are out of the board’s control”.

If a straight top teams play in the grand finals, Boort will meet Sea Lake in under 16 football, while in netball it will be Wedderburn against Boort in A Grade.

Wedderburn will be in the B and C Grade finals while Boort will be in the under 16B and under 13 netball deciders. Boort will be in men’s and under 15 hockey clashes.

Loddon HERALD

sport

Thursday September 9, 2021

BACK AT THE TRACK

HARNESS Racing returns to Donaldson Park Wedderburn this Sunday.

But the club’s second meeting of the year will be without crowds in line with current COVID restrictions.

The highlight of Sunday’s meeting will be the $12,000 Inglewood Mitre 10 Calder Pacing Cup over 2150 metres, sponsored by Inglewood Mitre 10 proprietors Sue and Peter Moore.

Fields for the eight-race pro-

gram were to be declared yesterday.

All pace races will be mobile starts with a standing start for

trotters’ handicap over 2555 metres.

The 2018 winner of the Inglewood Mitre 10 Calder Pacing Cup was the ill-fated Erico, owned and trained in Inglewood

by Grant Innes who won in then track record time of 1.56.9.

District trained trotter Chissy was successful at Geelong last Saturday night and provided some wonderful ties to Wedderburn district.

Chissy was bred by Jason McNulty and is owned by the Mc-

Nulty family, trained by Jason McNulty and well driven by young up and coming Charlton reinsman Ryan Sanderson.

Chissy was named after the late Alan Chisholm who was closely related to the McNulty family.

Alan Chisholm had a lot of success with his horses and loved trotters especially Val Curl who was trained by Jack Hargreaves.

Val Curl won four races at the Royal Melbourne Showgrounds during the 70s for Alan and Jack

including on race off 48 yards behind scratch, which was a hard thing to achieve.

The ties to the district continue as Chissy is trained by Danny Bouchea who was owned, trained and driven by Nick Youngson.

Nick is Alan Chisholm’s grandson.

And of course, Danny Bouchea spent some time doing stud duties for Doc Hargreaves.

Harness Racing Saturday night is at Bendigo. My tips are Race 3 No 2 Powderkeg and Race 7 No 7 Wolf Stride.

NO CROWDS THIS TIME: Pacers in full stride during the Wedderburn club’s cup meeting in February.

LH PHOTO

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