Loddon Herald 11 March 2021

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Loddon HERALD Vol 1 No 7 THURSDAY, MARCH 11, 2021

FAREWELL JOHN THE LODDON’S living legend John Forbes has died tragically on his property at Mitiamo.

Recognised for his work as national promotions manager for Puma, a champion of local sport and a founding member of Victoria Police Blue Ribbon Foundation, John was 79.

Within hours of news filtering through the tightknit community, the Australian flag was fly-

By CHRIS EARL

ing at half-mast from the flagpole at Mitiamo football ground - the oval renamed in honour of John in 2017.

The heartfelt gesture signalled the outpouring of tributes locally and from around the nation to the man AFL legend Neil Roberts once said “seems to know damnnear everything and everyone.

He is a people magnet”.

Member for Murray Plains Pe-

THE GLORY DAYS OF TRAINS AND RED RATTLERS MICK Robson revelled in the sights and sounds of The Grainlander traversing railway tracks across the Loddon last weekend.

The former railway worker travelled by road to several spots to see the train pulling red rattlers, old Vinelander and Overlander carriages filled with passengers to Quambatook for an overnight stay.

Mick, who moved to Borung four months ago, joined other locals at stops that included two hours in Boort and a similar break in the journey at Inglewood.

He spent more than 20 years in various roles including assistant station master and track inspector.

Mick and many others had their cameras at the ready to capture local stops of the train. LH PHOTO

ter Walsh said John had had an amazing career in the sporting arena.

“He amassed an incredible collection of sporting memorabilia, much of it autographed and cataloguing some of the greatest names in the modern era of the Olympics and professional sport.

Mitiamo club president Rob Clohesy said John was the heart and soul of the club.

“We are all gutted and so sad

after news of his tragic passing He was an icon of our club and all the Loddon Valley league. A life member, a real treasure.

“John’s presence at our training nights and matches was inspirational as were his stories, his contacts and just to see John talking to people.

Jeff Thomas told the Loddon Herald: “John had Mitiamo in his blood. He just loved the area.”

CONTINUED PAGE 4 TRIBUTE TO FORBESY - PAGE 7

VALE: John Forbes

2 | Loddon HERALD Thursday 11 March 2021

Community talks will chart reservoir plan

R

EGULAR reader Glenn thought he had us when chatting at the tennis - reckoned there was a wrong answer in the quiz last week, the question about the Murray being the longest river in Australia. It soon became a topic of engaging conversation among his tennis team who had likewise diligently worked their way through the quiz of 20 questions between munching on slices of toast and spoons filled with breakfast cereal.

Then came the lightbulb moment ... let’s Google it and sure enough, according to Geoscience Australia, the Murray wins. But Glenn still reckons he has a technical point - when tributaries are included, there are some widely different answers. As Glenn says, we’re both right, or as happened a few times on the court at the weekend, the score’s duece!

N

OW chatting about technicalities, a tour guide was showing people around Washington, DC, when they reach the Potomac River. “On this spot, right here,” says the guide, “Abraham Lincoln threw a $10 bill all the way across the river in 1863.” “That’s impossible,” says a tourist. “No one could throw a piece of paper that far.” “Well,” says the guide, “it must be understood that money went a lot farther in those days.”

I

T’S amazing how river puns and jokes can connect. Two men were kayaking down a cold river They felt that if they didn’t do something soon, they’d freeze to death. So they decided to build a fire between them which ended up burning a hole through the vessel and sank it. This just goes to show you can’t have your kayak and heat it too.

G

LEN’S conversation gives us the chance to segue into some river puns this week.

I enjoy throwing coins in the river and

watching them. I like studying my cash flow.

Or what about this one? Where do fish wash?

In a river basin.

A

chap jumped in the river in Paris. Local police say he’s in Seine.

I

F an alligator lives in a river and thinks he’s a crocodile there’s a good chance he’s in da-nile! Or same theme different story: A chap jumped in the river in Cairo. Local police say he’s in de Nile.

W

here do fish keep their money? In river banks.

W

hy didn’t the hipster swim in the river?

It was too mainstream.

A

ND a final technicality this week. Justin Timberlake is bad at geography He sings this song, “Crimea River”, but we checked, and Crimea is a peninsula, not a river.

Share your stories with Over the Fence email loddonherald@gmail.com

Do you need to protect the things that matter most?

It’s time to talk.

Will and Powers of Attorney Complex Estate Planning and Testamentary Trusts Estate administration Farm succession planning Disputed estates

LODDON Shire Council will develop a master plan for Skinners Flat Reservoir.

Council says it will engage key stakeholders and the community over coming months to provide direction for the future development, recreational uses, management and maintenance of the reservoir near Wedderburn.

Issues around ad hoc development of Skinners Flat Reservoir have been identified driving the need for creation of the master plan, achieved through community collaboration and consultation.

Council says planned community and stakeholder engagement will start this month.

“The project will engage and

Insurance costs to be covered TEN key Loddon community groups will have their insurance costs paid by the shire council this year.

Councillors agreed with a recommendation to cover the insurance policies for the organisations.

Boort Tourism Development, Bridgewater Development, Dingee Progress Associagion, Inglewood Development and Tourism, Loddon Southern Tourism and Development, Mitiamo

Farm succession planning - The third and fourth of the four key estate planning questions – who is to receive your wealth, and how should they receive it?

Farming families often wish to leave their estates to their spouse, and then divide it equally amongst children when both parents have died.

Challenges arise where one child is to receive the farm, particularly where the farm is the largest, or only, asset.

An ‘Option to Purchase’ can allow a family member to purchase an asset from your estate.

An Option To Purchase clause can set out how the sale of property is to be structured, for example by including a method of valuing the property, or requiring repayments over a number of years.

Call us on 03 5434 6666 or visit us at robertsonhyetts.com.au

Creating a life interest can allow a person or people to use the farm to generate an income for themselves or other people for a certain time, but not to have outright ownership until a triggering event occurs, which could be the elapse of a certain time period, or the death of a certain person, or payment of a specified purchase amount.

A conditional gift transfers an asset to a beneficiary, but only once they have fulfilled certain conditions.

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8/2/21 12:51 pm

Progress Association, Pyramid Hill Progress Association, Wedderburn Development, Wedderburn Tourism and Kingower Tourism and Development will have their $1050 premiums paid.

Councillors also agreed to allocate each group between $200 and $500 depending on size of community for their administration costs. The decisions were part of council’s community support policy.

Farm succession planning: who will receive?

Using conditional gifts and trusts can assist to achieve a fair distribution of assets.

Far from being the simple life, farming is a complex mix of land, equipment, relationships and knowledge, all carefully and strategically managed for generations. Robertson Hyetts have the experience and knowledge to help secure your legacy now, and plan for the future with confidence.

consult with the local community, user groups, key government and non-government agencies, and other groups identified through the planning process,” council said last week.

“In doing so, this project will consider any recommendations in terms of delivery and maintenance to align with council’s capacity.

“Future recreation activities need examining and all potential recreation activities will be considered in consultation with stakeholders.”

Council said the the project contributed to its strategic objective to “support development of a prosperous and diverse economy”.

This can allow the recipient of farm land to use a gifted asset as security for a loan to pay out other siblings.

This is the fourth in a series of 6 articles on farm succession planning that aim to help you start the process to ensure an efficient transition of your wealth to your intended beneficiaries.

For the full series, and other resources, visit our website at www.robertsonhyetts.com.au Trent McGregor Wills and Estate Planning Lawyer

Loddon HERALD Thursday 11 March 2021 | 3

The buzz of visitors flocking to our towns TOWNS across the Loddon were buzzing with visitors over the long weekend.

Not even intermittent rain Monday deterred people travelling to local towns or having a stop on their return home.

Local accommodation businesses have reported putting up the “full house” signs for the three days.

Caravan parks were particularly popular with visitors from across Victoria pitching

tents and moving their vans on site last Friday.

The Grainlander train stops at Boort and Inglewood added to activity with travellers on the sell-out weekend trip wandering local shops during their stopovers.

In Wedderburn, where the annual gold detector jambouree had been cancelled because of COVID event restrictions, the main street was still a hive of activity.

The long weekend provided a boon for hospitality businesses, too. And small business owners were welcoming of the influx to the region.

Chris Sharpe, of Sharpe’s Bazaar, told the Loddon Herald: “There were heaps of people around. The weekend was buzzing.

“It was wonderful to see and hear of so many people spending time in towns across the region.”

Meanwhile, organisers of the Rheola Charity Carnival have officially confirmed cancellation for 2021.

It’s the second postponement of what will be the carnival’s 150th year.

Until last year, the carnival had never been cancelled and committee secretary Deb Hancock said members hoped to stage the milestone celebration in 2022, COVID restrictions permitting.

By bike, it’s off to school they’ll ride STUDENTS from St Patrick’s School, Pyramid Hill, will be among thousands of youngsters across Australia riding to school next week.

Teacher Samantha Doyle said students were excited to be part of National Ride2School Day on March 19.

“Pyramid Hill is a small town which allows for many of our learners to be physically active in their transport to school,” she said.

“Riding to school builds independence, enhances skills around health and safety as well as respecting the environment.

“Learners benefit from social interactions with the community and peers, and building and maintaining relationships outside of the school grounds”.

“Our school encourages students to ride to school.

“We run a bike education program which supports learners to develop their bike riding skills as well as develop their confidence riding on the streets of our community”.

“Taking part in National Ride2School Day helps to promote bike riding,” she added.

“We praise learners for their

IN BRIEF Garden honour A MEMORIAL garden at Dingee Bush Nursing Centre will honour Frank Winzar who died last year, aged 93.

Staff at the centre have driven the memorial that will be officially opened on April 12.

Frank served on the bush nursing centre board for more than 40 years and was key to maintaining the centre’s garden and the town’s progress park.

Dingee’s recreation reserve has also been named in honour of Frank.

Bush nursing centre president Jeff Thomas said: “Frank would often be out watering plants in 40-degree heat. The staff have driven this ... they were keen to see a memorial to Frank and this is a great way to do it.”

$2000 grant PYRAMID Hill’s United Filipino Organisation will receive a $2000 grant to host a local Philippine Independence Day 2021 celebration in June. The grant is through the State Government Multicultural Festivals and Events Program.

Safety rebates AGRICULTURE Victoria has launched a farm safety rebate scheme.

Rebates of up to $5000 are available with at least 50 per cent co-contribution to assist eligible farm businesses to invest in infrastructure and equipment to improve safety for farming families, workers and visitors to Victorian farms.

Basin concerns

St Patrick’s students Rian, Jores and Ize are keen bike riders. LH PHOTO safe practices when using their bike”.

Bicycle Network general manager of public affairs Anthea Hargreaves said National Ride2School Day was a great time to start going to

school the healthy way. “National Ride2School Day is a fun way for students and parents to experience the joy of riding a bike. There’s no better time to make riding to school part of your routine,” she said

“Riding to school is free and fun and can also help students perform better in the classroom. Studies have shown students arrive at school energised, alert and more ready to learn.”

SIX Northern Victorian councils, including Loddon, have raised concerns about the impacts of the Murray Darling Basin Plan on the region. They have told Federal Water Minister Keith Pitt of deliverability risks and the need for investment in the region to mitigate the impact of the Basin Plan.

4 | Loddon HERALD Thursday 11 March 2021

Vineyards launch into corker of a vintage

LODDON vineyards are swinging into vintage 2021 with expectations high for quality and yield.

At Turners Crossing, the first grapes were picked last week.

Sales director Chris McCormack said the first fruit off vines was mostly white grape varieties viognier and picolit and some cabernet sauvignon for use in the 2020 rose.

“The cooler weather has certainly slowed things a little after what initially appeared to be a fast ripening and short harvest period,” he said.

“We expect we will be in full swing at Serpentine within the next 10 days for the remaining cabernet sauvignon and shiraz.

“Early estimates are promising for a large and quality yield, aided by the relatively wet spring and cool but dry summer.

“This has resulted in strong vine vigour and bountiful fruit production, so fingers crossed it will all come together nicely and this time next year we will be reflecting on one of the few great things to come out of the last 12 months!”

PICKING PARTY: Four tonnes of grapes come off the vines at Black Wallaby over the weekend.

Vintage started at Bridgewater’s Black Wallaby Wines at the weekend when 50 people were part of the annual picking party of friends, neighbours and family.

“This year we were blessed with the weather as it wasn’t too hot. We picked four tonnes of shiraz fruit that will be used to make the 2021 Ruby Rose, Joey Shiraz and Estate Shiraz,” said Jayne Lawson “The season so far has been one of the best with the cooler temperatures throughout summer and the rain earlier in the season.

“Due to the cooler summer, the ripening process has been much slower which allows the berries to retain their flavours and natural acidity.

“This results in more balanced fruit concentration. The roll on effect of this means that very little to no intervention is needed once the fruit hits the winery for the production of the final product.”

Jayne said the big picks would happen in the next three weeks, with a machine harvester taking off fruit that would be sold to wineries in Victoria, NSW and the Barossa Valley.

“Vintage is always such a very busy and exciting time of the year,” she said.

“It is always a relief to watch the fruit drive out the gate on the trucks and know that another year of labor and love has paid off.”

Andrew Simpson, of Newbridge Winery, said the season had been very good, aided by the cooler summer.

He said the growing season had been a little extended on previous years and the right amount of rain had come at ideal times.

“The quality is great and it looks like being a heavy crop,” Andrew said ahead of his picking that will start this week.

“Hopefully, what we pick should make some great wines from what has been a very promising season in contrast to the previous season’s terrible growing conditions.

Newbridge Winery has three acres planted with shiraz grapes and two acres with fiano, a southern Italian variety.

Andrew said his greatest challenge was securing professional pickers this year.

Show plans plough on MADELEINE Scott has been re-elected president of Boort Agricultural and Pastoral Society with plans announced for the annual show’s return in October.

Society executive secretary Kathryn Lanyon said: “We are planning ‘full steam ahead’ for the only agricultural show in the Loddon Shire!

The date for this year’s show will be October 9.

“The very popular truck show will return as well as all our usual highlights with the shearing competition, twilight format with a band and fireworks, plenty of amusements, a jampacked pavilion plus lots more.

“Thanks to a grant we will also be replacing the sheep yards for the dog trials. We look forward to these improvements taking shape at Boort Park,” Kathryn said after last week’s annual meeting of the society. Also elected were vice-president Kelly Hird, minute secretary Stacey Streader, treasurer Grant Malone, show secretaries Marj Potter and Isabel Loader.

FROM PAGE 1

Tributes flow for legend of Loddon “He retired back to the farm and restored the family home - designed by the great Bendigo architect William Vahland. He was proud of that,” Jeff said.

“Our area was blessed by John and his ability to attract others to the area for sports nights and other events.

“He was an amazing man, a real character who will be sadly missed.”

Robert Condliffe, who was on the organising committee for John’s cricket tribute match a decade ago that raised funds for the Inglewood and Bendigo hospital, recalled meetings the Bendigo hospital where John was a patient at the time.

“He was an incredible man.

People were attracted to him and these wonderful stars of sport would support him.

“Whenever you wanted a guest speaker, you’d only have to ask John and he would get it organised. He gave great support to so many atheletes and they supported him back.

“Not too bad for a talent grown out of a small country town.”

John’s major contribution to Australian sport began in the late 1970s when he started the Loddon Valley Football League weekly record, the LV, launching a career in sports marketing before returning to Mitiamo.

A large collecting of sporting memorabilia amassed by John over the decades now forms the display at Rochester Sports Museum.

John was awarded the medal of the Order of Australia in 2001 for his services to the community and Blue Ribbon and was a Knight of the Order of St John.

Mr Forbes had late stage Parkinson’s disease and previously battled bowel cancer.

He was found by a neighbour in a creek on the Mitiamo property Sunday morning.

Details of Mr Forbes’ funeral were still to be announced yesterday morning.

Loddon HERALD Thursday 11 March 2021 | 5

Network recognises Rhonda’s decades of local volunteering KOOYOORA Women’s Network has honoured Rhonda Heather for her voluntary contributions across local communities.

The group’s annual volunteer award was announced at last week’s dinner in Inglewood ahead of the International Women’s Day. Guest speaker, vice-president of Rural Doctors’ Association of Victoria Skye Kinder, spoke on her life and commitment to ensuring rural communities were able to access medical and health care.

Network president Colleen Condliffe presented the award to Rhonda, saying her contributions to the region had extended over many decades.

“Rhonda’s involvement in the Tarnagulla and district communities over more than six decades has seen her contributing in the towns of the area and quietly helping family, neighbours and friends,” Colleen said.

“As a musician – Rhonda was a member of the renowned Benola Singers in her younger years – she has performed at countless community events across central Victoria as a vocalist and as pianist.

“She continues to provide musical accompaniment at community gatherings and celebrations including Australia Day. “For many years, Rhonda has been organist for church services in Tarnagulla and Dunolly and is still ‘pumping out the hymns’ for the congregation of the Uniting Church in Dunolly on most Sundays.”

Rhonda is also one of the small band of dedicated volunteers at the Dunolly op-shop, every week sorting, cleaning and preparing clothes and other donated items ready for sale in the shop that provides support for communities and people across the wider district of Dunolly, Tarnagulla,

IN BRIEF Women gather FRIDAY’S Women’s World Day of Prayer service in Wedderburn was well attended.

All churches in Wedderburn were represented.

Glenda Hunter on organ and Sue and Bill Foreman on guitars led the singing which was resounding.

Wendy Ward gave the message on the theme “Build on a strong foundation” with Joan Bartlett covering with a power point presentation, learning how Vanuatu experiences many earthquakes, cyclones, tsunamis and volcanic eruptions.

Women of Vanuatu prepared this year’s service that touched on strong, resilient people who conduct their lives with grace, humility and love, trusting and relying faithfully on God to help them overcome their difficulties.

The service was followed by afternoon tea where many were able to catch up after a long break.

Solar system CALIVIL Recreation Reserve committee of management will receive funding under the Victorian Government’s Solar on Public Buildings Program to install a solar PV system.

The committee is among 228 volunteer committees across the state sharing in round one of the $9.2 million initiative.

Pipeline tanks Dr Skye Kinder and Volunteer Award recipient Rhonda Heather. LH PHOTO Newbridge and other areas.

Rhonda has served the local churches as their representative to State Synod and also been a member of church state and national bodies.

“It is her care and compassion for others that guides an unselfish and quiet help for people across the district, dropping in with freshly

baked cakes or biscuits, picking up the phone and making sure family, friends and neighbours remain connected,” Colleen said.

“Across the wider region, Rhonda enjoys the company and involvement of others through membership of Kooyoora Women’s Network, Dunolly CWA and Kangaroo

Flat Probus and has assisted at the Rheola Charity Carnival for many years.

“And when there’s spare time, Rhonda is knitting and crocheting rugs, soft toys and jumpers for charities.”

Rhonda thanked the network the award. “It’s not something you expect just for helping people,” she said.

A TANK rebate scheme to assist landowners buy water tanks required to connect to the new Mitiamo Pipeline Project pipeline has started.

Goulburn-Murray Water will provide customers a rebate of up to $1500 for the purchase cost of one tank per tapping point.

Tanks must be purchased

by April 30 and installed

by June 30.

6 | Loddon HERALD Thursday 11 March 2021

FEATURES opinion | quiz | gardening

Service fit for future

A TRANSFORMATION of Inglewood and Districts Health Service commenced in 2017, with the arrival of a new executive team including myself, and the Director Clinical and Community Services, Dallas Coghill.

Located in Inglewood, but working across the southern half of the Loddon region, all parts of IDHS services, programs and purpose have been reviewed, refreshed and refocussed over the past three years to make sure we meet the needs of our community now and into the future.

One of the first changes implemented in 2017, was the relocation of community based staff to the front of the building so they are accessible when you arrive.

Our staff are our most valuable resource, and we have expanded the staff group including allied health, increased the graduate nurse program and provided a broad range of professional development for all staff.

Focus We also acknowledge and value the experience of our staff, with many skilled, dedicated and committed staff providing invaluable service to our community over many years.

The focus, approach and dedication of all members of the IDHS team over the past year, and, in the face of COVID19 has been outstanding.

As a reflection of the profile IDHS has developed as a collaborative and supportive partner in the region, and a willingness to be part of new initiatives, programs and directions in

Respect works both ways Sir, The letter from Karen Mander (Loddon Herald February 25) calls for the hunting of ducks to be banned.

Her arguments are that not many people do hunt, that it involves unacceptable cruelty and that it impacts bird populations.

The number of duck hunters is low relative to the population but that is no reason to ban an activity. Perhaps she should call for the banning of tiddley-winks as the

LOCAL PERSPECTIVE

health and wellbeing, IDHS was excited to be one of the first health services that commenced the Pfizer vaccination program on March 1.

During 2020, IDHS worked tirelessly, wearing PPE every day, to keep our residents and patients safe. COVID required significant changes to how we worked, the team developed and implemented a range of activities for our residents, as well as changing our interaction with community based clients.

Virtual meeting platforms made sure families and friends stayed connected, when they could not visit in person. For some their role completely changed, but they adjusted and got on with the job of caring.

The staff are an inspiration to me as their CEO every day. IDHS is not an island and has strong and collaborative partnerships with other health services locally and across the region, bringing services as close as possible to our community.

Working to empower our community we have introduced new programs and initiatives for the broader community.

During the past three years IDHS has focussed on engaging with the community, participating and presenting events and activities for people of all ages including the Wedderburn Splatter Run, supporting Inglewood Alive and Rheola Carnivals (pre-COVID of course) and in late 2019 IDHS launched our Annual Charity Golf Day. This was a huge success bringing new supporters together for an enjoyable day.

The funds raised purchased new beds to meet the increasing need of our

residents. Importantly this work also makes sure that every member of the community knows who we are and what we do.

The expansion of community-based services has been a focus, knowing that prevention and early support and care keeps people out of hospital, within their home, family and community.

This leads to better health outcomes.

In recent years we have been successful in recruitment and funding submissions, allowing expansion of services and refreshing facilities for our patients, residents and staff.

Our building may have stood since the Victorian gold rush of the 1860s, but the service delivery that emanates from within is contemporary and fit for purpose in the current day.

Fresh feel Thanks to some painting and slight refurbishment, it may be an old building but it has a fresh feel when you arrive.

As the CEO, I hope that you have seen an improvement in many aspects of our service over the past three years, after all, we are here for you.

If you want to tell us how we can do better, please feel free to contact us. If you want to join us as a volunteer, we would be delighted to welcome you to the team at IDHS. IDHS is delivering health care in Loddon in partnership with you, our community.

* Tracey Wilson is chief executive officer of Inglewood and Districts Health Service

LETTER TO THE EDITOR number of players is very low.

All killing involves some level of cruelty, but hunters try to be as humane in their practice as they can.

Abbatoirs involve mass cruelty but I see no call for the banning of meat processing.

Ducks are opportunistic breeders, and numbers will vary enormously depending on rainfall and environment.

The major threat to duck numbers is loss of habitat, not hunting pressure.

I do not believe that duck hunters shoot ducks for fun – they do it for the provision of food.

Duck flavours vary widely and there is no other meat with the same strong flavour as wild duck.

If I knew that a Victorian family did not like duck hunters near their residence

or objected to shooting I would never hunt near them.

In my local area, there are those who don’t like what I do, so I stay away from them.

I can respect people’s rights to quiet and no hunting on their property, but expect that in a democracy the rights of a minority to engage in a legal activity also be respected.

George Wyatt Newbridge

1. Who was the first man to walk on the moon?

2. What of the official language of Jamaica?

3. How many sides does a pentagon have?

4. What three colours make up the colour of the Union Jack flag?

5. How many days are there in December?

6. What is a baby kangaroo called?

7. How many brains does an octopus have?

8. What is a group of lions called?

9. Which planet is known as “The Red Planet”?

10. What organ helps pump blood through the entire body?

11. What is the capital of France?

12. What is the highest mountain in the world?

13. In which country would you find the Taj Mahal?

14. How many deserts are there in Africa?

15. Helsinki is the capital city of which country?

16. How many wives did Henry VIII have?

17. What was the name of Queen Victoria’s husband?

18. What year was the Battle of Hastings?

19. What was the first name of the famous playwright Shakespeare?

20. Where did the ancient Olympic Games originate?

ANSWERS 1. Neil Armstrong. 2. English. 3. Five. 4. Blue, white, red. 5. 31. 6. Joey. 7. Nine. 8. Pride. 9. Mars.

10. Heart. 11. Paris. 12. Mount Everest. 13. India.

14. Three - Sahara, Kalahari, and Namib. 15. Finland. 16. Six. 17. Prince Albert. 18. 1066. 19. William. 20. Greece

By TRACEY WILSON*

A great time to get native species ready to star With BIANCA FROST I LOVE AUTUMN The weather is usually calmer and more predictable, mornings are crisp and winter will soon be on its way to bring (hopefully) much needed rain.

It’s also a great time of year to plant and establish new plants as they will have heaps of time to settle in before the onslaught of next summer.

Natives are about to be the super stars of the garden with most native species getting ready to put on a show, it’s also a great time to plant them!

LET’S TALK VEGGIES It’s now time for you to change over your veggie

patch with broccoli, cauliflower, beets, onion, lettuce and peas (just to name a few) now in season.

Make sure you remove all old veggies from Spring/ Summer and document what you had planted where even if it is just a quick picture with your phone so you don’t plant the same thing there next Spring.

Feed the soil with an organic fertiliser like manure pallets, blood and bone or bags of manure.

Make sure you water this down thru the soil pro-

file to avoid burning young seedlings. If you have had a bad infestation of pest or disease it’s a good idea to rest your soil to try and break the cycle.

And while where on fertilising make sure you keep up the nutrition as Summer has been a period of heavy watering and nutrients from the soil will have been lost thru leeching.

It’s always best, where possible to use more natural fertilisers over the salt based, man-made ones as they work more in harmony with the soil microbes.

See you soon Bianca Bridgewater Nursery

Our Garden is a new column in the Loddon Herald with tips and ideas for the seasons.

Loddon HERALD Thursday 11 March 2021 | 7

FEATURES

JOHN Forbes took his loveable larrikin personality from the footy shed at Mitiamo to the greatest sporting arenas of the world.

He always had dreams, ideas and saw great opportunities, particularly if it meant helping country sporting clubs and their communities.

That’s how I first met Forbesy.

It was in 1978 when a whippersnapper cadet journalist at the Bendigo Advertiser and in comes John with his Loddon Valley Football League report.

Within seconds, he had engaged every journalist in the newsroom - it was a skill that had people gravitating with respect for him in decades to come.

At the same time, John had convinced league delegates to commence publication of a weekly football record - the LV. It wasn’t to be all plain sailing as he recalled only a few years ago in Forbesy’s Flashback printed in the LV: “The sceptics had a field day with the first edition which carried a photo of sixyear-old Miti supporter Aaron Coutts on the cover and lost $15.

One delegate told me in no uncertain terms that I would break the league and another told me we are a football league not a printing business.”

John was undeterred. In fact, his enthusiasm helped take the Loddon Valley League into a new era at a time when the two Bendigo-based leagues were in turmoil

... and it set him on a career path that connected with sport and sports-people around Australia.

They became his mates and returned respect and favour by coming to towns like Mitiamo, Inglewood, Dingee and every other small community in the Loddon to raise funds for local clubs and causes, towns these stars of cricket, football, netball and athletics would never have heard of had it not been for John Forbes.

He helped nurture a fellow country spirit Sharelle McMahon in her rise to Australia’s leading netballer.

That helping, caring country nature that John personified extended to being a foundation member of the Blue Ribbon Foundation.

Forbesy was recognised and honoured for his generosity.

With co-author Martin Ruffell he wrote Forbesy - the John Forbes Story, a wonderful book that shows great ideas can actually start in the country.

His humility and love of the country saw Mitiamo beckon the boy back after retirement from the pinnacle of sports marketing and turn up to every football club event, still keen to help with a smile. Engaging always.

John is survived by his wife Fay, sons David and Peter and six grandchildren. The Loddon thanks you for sharing an amazing man with local communities.

- CHRIS EARL

THE SMILE OF LIFE: John Forbes radiated connection with people.

BELOW (clockwise from top left): John pictured in 1958, with wife Fay, preparing to run with the Olympic Torch in 2000, outside the restored family homestead, celebrating Mitiamo’s 2007 flag, with fellow country-born achiever Sharelle McMahon PHOTOS COURTESY THE FORBES FAMILY. WE ALSO ACKNOWLEDGE THE ASSISTANCE OF STEVE BRIGHT, BART N PRINT, IN COMPILING THIS SPECIAL TRIBUTE

8 | Loddon HERALD Thursday 11 March 2021

THE 640-acre Pine Bank property at Leaghur will go to auction in Boort.

Nutrien Harcourts Rural’s Nick Byrne is expecting strong interest for the parcel of prime agricultural land.

Being sold following retirement from farming of the owners, Nick said property in the district had been keenly sought after in recent years.

“The buoyant commodities market and good years for production in the area are indicators to the potential of the Pine Bank offering,” he said.

“There’s always strong in-

CLEARING SALE

Prime property goes to auction next week terest when prime agricultural land becomes available in the Boort district and next Wednesday’s auction, hopefully, should be no exception,” Nick said, “The 640 acres, a mix of black Leaghur clays and rising

red/sandy loam at Pine Bank, is currently barley stubble, and a summer spraying program that is up to date, allows for the land to fit straight into a cropping rotation.

“The versatility of Pine Bank also makes it prime land for

livestock and potentially other cropping activities.”

Nick said the Leaghur property was about a 15-minute drive from Boort.

“The offering at Pine Bank provides a wonderful opportunities for agricultural pro-

ducers to establish a presence in the district or local farmers and growers wanting to expand their productive holding of quality agricultural land,” Nick said.

“With some shedding, a dated home that would require some renovation and a S&D water pipleline connection in place, Pine Bank is certainly a prime parcel of agricultural land,” Nick said. _____________________________

Pine Bank will go under the hammer at Boort Football Club next Wednesday at 10am

2175 BOORT – KERANG RD, LEAGHUR THURSDAY 25TH MARCH Start 10am - AuctionsPlus Interface items to start at 11am

Ac: GJ & MA Rumbold (property sold) Items to be interfaced on Auctions Plus (starting 11am) refer AuctionsPlus for photos and full T&Cs 2004 Case IH Magnum MX210, 3840hrs, FWA, tyres 90%, full set remotes, 3PL; Trimble GPS CFX 750 Auto steer, in exceptional condition. Case 2188 Axial flow header, 6015 eng hrs, 3780 Rotor hrs, straw chopper, 36’ Macdon 960 draper front (sold sep); Case 1660, Axial flow header 6490 hrs, Cummins motor, C/w 25’ Inter 1010 front tyne reel; 1984 S Line Inter prime mover, 350 HP Cummins, C/w 40’ Lusty aluminium tipper on super singles; 15 spd R/R, good tyres all round & spares; 2004 RFM Airdrill XT 3000, 30’ C/w press wheels, 45 tyne, 8” spacings finger harrows to suit; Gold Acres 21mt boom spray “Prairie Special” C/w foam marker; Inter T Line 2670, Cummins motor, 9spd R/R, 22’ tipping tray C/w grain bin; 786 Inter Tractor, Series draw bar model; 696 Inter Tractor, 3P.L. 42’ Westfield PTO Drive 8” Auger; 40’ Keogh Auger C/w 13hp motor; 3 Sherwell field bins C/w auger 2 x 31T 1 x 20T; Lyco Hyd post driver, C/w 3” & 10” augers & PTO Hyd drive: McCormick Inter W6 Tractor, petrol/kero, belt pulley, working

cond; Ford 750 tray truck, 330 V8 petrol, late 1960’s (not going): Fuel trailer C/w 12v pump: Inter 211 - 29 Tyne Scarifier C/w Finger harrows & Hyd Ram; 30’ Four Farmers Cultivator bar C/w Hyd Ram: 16 Gason Mower Master: 3P/L 6’ Grader Blade; 14’ Vennings Grouper C/w 8hp B & S motor elect start; White 135 Field Boss tractor.

Other Items to be sold on site only 28 Plate Naper 695 O/Set Disc; Portable loading ramp 15’ 20T Grain bin on wheels; 200lt Gold Acres spot sprayer C/w 12v pump; Trimble light bar; AW7D Tractor C/w FEL, Rops to suit; Steel Wheels; Old kero fridge; 40’ Fire harrows; Inter 440 baler; 6 Wheel Vicon Rake; NH Model 55 rake; 14’6” Stock Crate; Vintage M/Board Plough; Leaf Harrows 1 Sunbeam SGV Shearing Plant C/w d/tube; 1 Sunbeam DE Grinder C/w clamp & pendulum; Sunbeam D/Box elec wool press; Bale holders; Timber wool table 8’6” x 4’6”; Saw Bench; PTO Lincoln welder on trailer; swing saw C/w 13hp motor & blade, tun tip; 3P/L Ripper; 2 x 500 gal OH Diesel tanks; 1 x 1500 gal OH Diesel tank; 2” Fire pump C/w Mitsubishi motor; Steel work benches; ARC Welder; Oxy: Pressure washer Qty Pine post 5” – 6” unused; S/H Pine posts;

www.NutrienAgSolutions.com.au

Ute crate; Fencing wire; Steel posts; Gates; Cable; 3lt 1998 Hilux Etra Cab C/w winch; 1983 Hilux & EF Falcon (Wrecking only); 1 x 12’ poly trough; Spare V Belts; Points; Sundries & Scrap too numerous to list & Some household goods.

Number System operating, photo I.D required Cash/ Chq on Day of Sale (EFTPOS may not be available) Directions 21.75 km North of Boort on Boort Kerang Rd. Signs erected on day of sale.

Covid restrictions will apply.

Contact: Nutrien Ag Solutions – Boort Kevin Linehan 0428 510 657 Nick Byrne 0428 546 825 Vendor Geoff Rumbold - 0488 171 817 After Hours - 03 5455 4282

Loddon HERALD Thursday 11 March 2021 | 9

Loddon HERALD CLASSIFIEDS Deadline - Tuesdays 4pm - loddonherald@gmail.com EMPLOYMENT

PUBLIC NOTICES

Louise STALEY MP LIBERAL MEMBER FOR RIPON

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

LouiseStaleyRipon

IT’S TIME TO REMEMBER SUSIE DOWLING Susie died in Tasmania in March 2020. COVID has denied her the send off she deserved

Careers at Loddon Shire

The Inglewood Cemetery Trust is seeking a new secretary.

Please join us at the Inglewood Recreation Reserve from 1.30pm on Saturday 24 April to raise a toast and celebrate her life

Applications in writing to B. Rodwell 95 Verdon Street Inglewood Vic 3517

For more information contact Boydy on 0427379064 or Max Higgs on 0409708244 maxanniehome@bigpond.com

Loddon Shire has a proactive and enthusiastic workforce of approximately 200 employees. The Council is the largest employer in the municipality providing a broad range of services to the community.

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

CHURCH NOTICE

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

WANTED TO BUY WANTED TO BUY: Block of land in Inglewood/Bridgewater/Marong/ Bendigo surrounding suburbs. preferably 1/2 acre to 1 acre.

Please contact Brooke for easy sale on 0403591496

Townscape Service Worker – ref. J/86 ● Permanent full-time – 34 and 42 hours per week (76 hour fortnight) ● Location – Across the Shire as required ● Classification – Townscape Services on Commencement - $29.99 per hour plus employer superannuation

THANK YOU

Applications for this position close Monday 22 March 2021 at 5:00pm.

The Bird family at Wychitella would like to thank the Fire Brigades and volunteers that attended the fire on our property at Lake Marmal.

Your assistance was much appreciated.

For further information in regard to this position 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.

Loddon HERALD FREE EVERY THURSDAY

Circulating throughout communities in the Loddon Shire

Contact us loddonherald@gmail.com or Phone 0419549743

Managing Editor - Chris Earl 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

BUSINESS, TRADES & SERVICES

10 | Loddon HERALD Thursday 11 March 2021

CRICKET ROUND-UP

Scene set for season decider

W. Deason not out ..................................... 6 Extras ......................................................... 5 Total ........................................... 9/111 BOWLING: A. Postle 0-20, W. Holt 1-20, J. Hargreaves 4-25, S. Barnes 1-17, L. Holt 1-0, LD Peters 3-18, N. Holt 0-7.

WEDDERBURN

BRIDGEWATER and Wedderburn will battle for season honours in Saturday’s Upper Loddon cricket grand final.

They made it through to the decider after last weekend’s semi-finals - Bridgewater beating Arnold by six wickets and Wedderburn defeating Kingower by four wickets.

The game at Kingower saw Wedderburn win the toss and send the home team into bat.

The first five Kingower batsmen all reached double figures but none were able to build a big innings.

It was left to Tommy Kairn late in the innings to top score with twenty five. At the end of their 40 overs, Kingower’s total stood at 9/111.

The Wedderburn bowling was excellent with no bowler conceding more than 25 runs off their eight overs. Jordan

O. Lockhart c J. Essex b J. Leach ............. 8 B. Holt not out ......................................... 73 L. Holt c J. Vinnicombe b T. Kairn ............. 8 S. Barnes c J. Leach b N. Leach ............... 4 L. Ritchie c J. Essex b L. DeJong ............ 16 W. Holt c J. Essex b N. Leach ................... 4 N. Holt c J. Essex b K. Simpson ............... 2 A Postle not out ....................................... 13 Extras ...................................................... 15 Total ........................................... 6/143 BOWLING: J. Leach 1-33, N. Leach 2-27, T. Kairn 1-29, K. Simpson 1-23, L. DeJong 1-11, B. Welsh 0-8.

BRIDGEWATER d ARNOLD ARNOLD

Bridgewater’s Ben Hann in action on Saturday as Michael Dale gets set to run. LH PHOTO Hargreaves did best taking four wickets while association’s leading wicket-taker Lachlan Peters at one stage had three for none off four overs before finishing with three for 18.

A feature of the bowling was that the seven bowlers used sent down 18 maiden overs, just under half of their allotted overs, conceding just one no ball.

In reply the Wedderburn innings was held together by opener Brad Holt who batted through to remain 73 not out.

Kingower bowlers kept chip-

ping away but could not make inroads quickly enough and with Holt providing a brick wall up one end, Wedderburn reached their target with four overs to spare.

Nick Leach with two wickets was the only multiple wickettaker for Kingower while Josh Essex took four catches behind the stumps, all from skied shots.

And so to this Saturday’s grand final with Bridgewater attempting to go one better than last year and Wedderburn

BEST ON THE GROUND

BATTING AVERAGES AND AGGREGATE Braydon Welsh (Kingower) Phil Scholes (Arnold) Ryan Metelmann (Arnold) Nick Leach (Kingower) Jarrod Hodoras (Boort-Yando)

HS 128 92 92 73 85

Runs 741 427 418 371 339

Av 61.75 38.82 34.83 33.73 28.25

making their first appearance since the 2015-16 season when they were beaten coincidently

by Bridgewater.

KINGOWER def by WEDDERBURN KINGOWER B. Welsh lbw J. Hargreaves ..................... 12 M. Rowe c N. Holt b S. Barnes ............... 10 J. Leach b J. Hargreaves ........................ 12 N. Leach b J. Hargreaves ........................ 14 K. Simpson c B. Holt b LD Peters ........... 16 C. Martin c L. Ritchie b W. Holt ................. 7 T. Kairn b J. Hargreaves .......................... 25 L. DeJong not out ...................................... 4 J. Essex b LD Peters .................................. 0 J. Vinnicombe c S. Barnes b LD Peters .... 0

P. Scholes b L Ross ................................. 39 C. Anderson c J. Burke b J. Hann ............. 6 C. Dale c H. McKinley b D. Wood ............. 2 R. Metelmann run out ................................ 6 HR McCullough b L. Ross ......................... 1 J. Wendels c O. McKinley b B. Hann ........ 4 B. Power b J. Burke .................................. 9 M Dale not out ........................................... 3 B. Metelmann not out ................................ 2 Extras ...................................................... 18 Total ............................................. 7/90 BOWLING: B Hann 1-12, J. Burke 1-14, J. Hann 1-15, L. Ross 2-19, K. Bloom 0-20, D. Wood 1-6.

BRIDGEWATER J. Hann b B. Power ................................... 3 T. Mckinley st P. Scholes b C. Dale ......... 15 J. Burke b P. Davies ................................. 27 L. Harrison not out ................................... 14 L. Ross st P. Scholes b C. Dale ............... 10 O. McKinley not out ................................. 19 Extras ........................................................ 3 Total ............................................. 4/91 BOWLING: R. Metelmann 0-19, B. Power 1-7, HR McCullough 0-19, P. Davies 1-14, C. Dale 2-31.

Teams in the finals’ action

STR 92.2 184.1 266.2 107.5

BOWLING AVERAGES AND AGGREGATE Lachlan Peters (Wedderburn) Nick Leach (Kingower) Eathan Collins (Newbridge) Ryan Metelmann (Arnold) Cameron Dale (Arnold)

W 27 26 21 20 19

BBI 5/9 5/8 3/22 4/23 4/19

Av 6.93 9.88 17.24 12.70 15.53

STR 15.11 23.71 25.43 27.25 20.53

FIELDING Catches non-WK Braydon Welsh (Kingower) 14 Harry McKinley (Bridgedwater) 13 Tom McKinley (Bridgewater 13 Cody Anderson (Arnold) 10 Luke Holt (Wedderburn) 9

Catches WK 0 0 2 0 0

DINGEE ... runners-up Northern United association. LH PHOTO

PETER PETER WALSH WALSH

YOUR YOUR VOICE VOICE IN IN GOVERNMENT PARLIAMENT We are family, friends, colleagues and neighbours Support — butour most of local all we are a businesses community.

The coronavirus pandemic has had a profound on alland our lives so looking after your Small businesses need impact our help support mental wellbeing is essential. It is normal to feel anxious, stressed and fearful during times in what continues to be tough times. of crisis. The Federal Government is providing support for the mental health and wellbeing of Australians as wespend face thelocally challengesthen of theour pandemic; to www.headtohealth.gov.au If we smallgobusinesses do too, if you feel like you might need some additional help coping with anxiety and worry about Coronavirus.

keeping our communities strong. Every little bit helps.

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 MP 496 High Street, Echuca 3564 Tel: 5482 2039 or 1300 467 906 E: peter.walsh@parliament.vic.gov.au Funded by Parliamentary budget.

BOORT-YANDO ... runners-up Upper Loddon junior competition. LH PHOTO

Loddon HERALD Thursday 11 March 2021 | 11

KITTY CORNER

Woodies’ grand encounter INGLEWOOD is today playing White Hills in the division five grand final of Bendigo midweek pennant.

The Woodies are up against White Hills in Bendigo.

Loddon teams were part of the Saturday pennant finals - Calivil 73 doing down to White Hills 85 in the division five qualifying final and in the elimination final, Kangaroo Flat 90 won over Inglewood 72. □□□

Fenton Creek’s Oscar Holt (left) and Amber Guerini on court in the semi-finals at Wedderburn last weekend.

LH PHOTOS

Powlett’s semi boilover ends dream of flag MINOR premiers Powlett have been eliminated from the race to take this season’s Inglewood and District Lawn Tennis Association flag.

The highly-favoured Powlett finished well clear on the ladder but was unable to muster the same form in Saturday’s semi-final against Fentons Creek.

Fentons Creek had finished the home and away season in fourth spot.

Powlett 11 sets 132 games lost to Fentons Creek 13 sets 162 games However, the other semifinal went to form with Serpentine 14 sets 156 games beating Loddon Eagles 10 sets 136 games.

In the junior competition, Serpentine 7 sets 58 games beat Powlett 5 sets 41 games.

Serpentine will play off with Loddon Eagles for the junior pennant.

All finals will be held at Inglewood this Saturday.

The Loddon Eagles team before their semi-final encounter. LH PHOTO

Local riders do well at titles RIDERS from Loddon Pony Club performed with credit in the Midland Zone championships over the weekend.

Among the riders to do well were Kiralee Hecker riding Phoenix to sixth place in Grade 5 showmanship and Elyshia Isaac riding Al to seventh place in Grade 6a dressage.

The zone comprises 17 clubs across central and northern Victoria.

Easter rally ENTRIES close tomorrow for the 67th Boort Tennis Club Easter tournament.

Play will start on Good Friday with the men’s and women’s singles championsips, concluding on Easter Monday with junior, men’s and women’s doubles. The championship was not held in 2020 due to COVID restrictions.

IN BRIEF Calder Cup victory BRIDGEWATER has won the annual Calder Cup women’s golf match against Marong last week. Sonya Lineham (57-25-32) and Sharon Coghill (4715-32) were the daily winners for their respective clubs,

Practice games TWO practice matches loom for Bridgewater footballers. They will play Elmore at Elmore on March 19 and host Nyah West on March 26.

Send your sport reports and results to loddonherald@gmail.com

Wedderburn held their midweek tournament last Thursday with 72 players and 12 clubs represented.

The format was consistency bowls following the scoring system for 100-up.

Understanding the scoring was a challenge for some at the beginning of the day. The overall winners after three games were Amy Roberts’ rink from Korong Vale. Congratulations to the winners. Runners-up were a team from Charlton. □□□ Pyramid Hill’s Division 1 put on their armour to tackle the might of Barham Blue in the first round of the finals for midweek pennant.

The end result was not as the team had hoped and there was nothing to blame but the strength of the opposition, falling short of a win by four shots.

Roma (Skip), Fred, Marg and Ted got off to a flying start and looked the real deal getting a very handy 13-1 lead before their opponents swung into action and pegged back the score systematically. For them, a winning rink decision all came down to the final end which saw the dice roll in Pyramid’s favour. Their 21-20 shot win was a welcome reward and justly deserved.

Players can be proud they made the finals in both Saturday and Wednesday pennants against teams with much larger playing groups.

Loddon HERALD

sport

Thursday March 11 2021

MONTH OUT FROM SEASON, LEAGUE BOSS SAYS 2021 ABOUT ...

MAKING IT WORK INGLEWOOD have put out an urgent call for players just a month from from the opening bounce of the 2021 Loddon Valley football season.

Confidence of a fortnight ago that the Mighty Blues would be able to field three football teams has been replaced with an appeal for senior and junior players.

All clubs will be expected to provide details of team num-

bers when they meet with the league board on Monday.

League president Simon Tuohey said the board was committed to working with clubs to ensure the return to football in 2021.

Tuohey said all options would be on the table, including possible consideration of 16-a-side competitions for reserves and under 18s.

While league by-laws state clubs must field teams in all football and netball grades,

Tuohey said: “We will be looking to make this season work for the clubs and for getting participation.”

“We are meeting on the 15th and all clubs will be asked how they are going for numbers,” he said.

“After COVID, there are challenges for everyone and the level of information we get from clubs will be important.

“There has been a lot of discussion at board level already.”

Inglewood president Chris

Cohalan told the Loddon Herald last month: “We’re recruiting hard to replace a few players we have lost and are confident we will be there when the season starts,” However, the Blues last week put out the call for more players.

“Our under 18s football team is approaching the required numbers but could certainly do with more players,” they said.

“The big concern at this stage is our senior football numbers.

“While the coaches and committee have been working hard to shore up our list, we are now at the point where we are in real danger of not being able to field a reserves team.

“This is certainly not a path the club wants to go down, so we are appealing to any player who may be sitting on the fence to commit to the club now so that we can field all teams in 2021.”

The Loddon Valley season starts on April 10.

ANGUS COURTS SUCCESS IN SEMI-FINALS ANGUS Addlem returns serve for Serpentine in his Inglewood and District Lawn Tennis Association junior semi-final at Wedderburn.

Eight courts were in use for the senior and junior finals on Saturday, Serptentine and Powlett Plains looking to advance to the junior grand final against Loddon Eagles who had a straight entry into the season’s finale.

Under the guidance of association stalwarts, the youngsters played throughout the afternoon in the spirit of being good sports and learning more about the game.

REPORT, PHOTOS - PAGE 11