Loddon Herald 12 August 2021

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Loddon HERALD Vol 1 No 29 THURSDAY, AUGUST 12, 2021 ISSN 2653-1569

SPECIAL REPORT

PRICES DRIVE

Calivil’s Max Carson has been selling at Bendigo livestock markets for decades ... he expects that could change in coming months.

LH PHOTO

BIG EXODUS FROM FADING REGION SALE

LODDON cattle producers are increasingly looking beyond the traditional Bendigo market sales for better prices.

Veterans have already seen the once busy Tuesdays reduced to a fortnightly offering at Monday’s sheep sales as cattle numbers tumble.

BACK OUT AND ABOUT

Full story - Page 6

LOCAL students returned to the classroom on Tuesday after the sudden lifting of Lockdown 6.0 for regional Victoria.

And Loddon shops, abruptly forced to close when stay-athome bans were enacted. have again opened their doors.

The lifting of lockdown Monday night has also allowed hotels and cafe owners, who had reverted to offering take-aways, to bring back dine-in service.

Local businesses and members of Parliament welcomed Premier

Daniel Andrews’ decision to take country communities out of the strict lockdown after four days.

East Loddon P12 College principal Steven Leed said it was great to have students back learning at school.

Murray Plains MP Peter Walsh called on the Government for business support packages “without restrictive criteria that excludes any level of business”.

With six lockdowns since March 2020, Mr Walsh said the goodwill of business to restrictions had gone.

More reports - Page 3

2 | Loddon HERALD Thursday August 12, 2021

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ELL it’s back to the footy dominating sport on the TV screens after 17 days of Olympic glory playing out in Tokyo - hope you enjoyed watching the Games in Lockdown as our weekly quiz again includes a few questions of an Olympiad nature to check how closely you paid attention. We mustn’t forget that Australia now has 11 years of watching at close quarter the build up for Brisbane 2032 and the banter for what new sports we could include in the Brisvegas extravaganza.

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LDER readers will remember that back in 1956, at the world’s greatest sporting stadium, the MCG, when on that early summer’s day a combined VFL/VFA side went down to the amateur league side before 30,000 people.

We reckon there should be a couple of Aussies Rules matches played in 2032 to enlighten world-wide sporting fans

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NCE being known as the country that rode the sheep’s back, there have naturally emerged in recent days pushes to have shearing and sheep dog trials included in the official schedule at Brisbane. That could open cans of worms and dog food when deciding the criteria for selection of the dogs though - would ingredients consumed for nutrition pass the scrutiny of the World Anti-Doping Agency? And when it comes to shearing, who would establish the world-standard for comb width?

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ALKING about dog trials -. Why aren’t dogs good dancers? Because they have two left feet! Or how do dog catchers get paid? By the pound!

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hear1 about the two dog owners Press AdID- you Week

arguing about whose pet is smarter. “My dog is so smart,” says the first owner, “that every morning he goes to the store and buys

me a sesame seed bagel with chive cream cheese, stops off at Starbucks and picks me up a mocha latte, and then comes home and turns on ESPN, all before I get out of bed.” “I know,” says the second owner. “How do you know?” the first demands. “My dog told me.”

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ITH Andrew Hoy, jokingly or otherwise, saying he will still be riding at the 2032 Olympics, why didn’t one of the TV interviewers ask the obvious question - To be or not to be a horse rider, that is equestrian

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HE Aussies did really well in Tokyo, again those swimmers showed the world a thing or two. Not like Eric Moussambani who had never seen an Olympic-sized swimming pool before going to the Sydney Games in 2000.

But in Australia, he ended up winning the heat of 100-metre freestyle that returned a timing 1:52.72, the slowest record Olympic time. he was the sole swimmer in the race after his competitors were disqualified. While the whole event was weird, it was also very inspiring, as the crowd cheered Moussambani the whole time during his race.

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

New library takes shape NEW buildings are taking shape at East Loddon P12 College where the $4.5 million upgrade of facilities continues. Work started earlier this year with demolition of a building and concrete walls are now being erected for the school’s new library, multipurpose and meeting rooms. As part of the State Government’s major refurbishment, fire and power services are also being upgraded. Principal Steven Leed said construction was on track for students to move into the new building at the start of the 2022 school year. He said the external structure was due for completion this week followed by a start on the internal fit-out. The building will also include a canteen. LH PHOTO

Shire surplus tipped to rise LODDON Shire Council has increased its budgeted cash surplus for 2020-2021 to $2.97 million.

The rise from $500,000 was reported to councillors at their recent meeting.

The June quarter finance report also listed a 12 per cent in-

crease in financial completion of the approved capital works budget of $2.68 million.

Council earlier this year adopted the introduction of quarterly financial updates, including cash flow, community planning program information and supplementary valuations.

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Loddon HERALD Thursday August 12, 2021 | 3

The take-away bubble

By CHRIS EARL HOTELS and cafes across the Loddon switched to take-away meals and food within hours of the sudden lockdown last Thursday night.

They’d done it before and again kept up connection for communities far removed from the latest COVID hotspots.

At Pyramid Hill, Victoria Hotel owner Paul Carter said that country businesses were once more being hit.

“It was going to be a huge weekend for us - the local golf club tournament was on, there was a major quarterhorse association competition and the St Patrick’s (Catholic) Church also had a service that was bringing many people to town.

“We were booked out for meals and had many accommodation bookings.

“And for one local resident, for the third time her 90th birthday family gathering has had to be cancelled. The way it’s going, that might have to wait until her 100th,” Paul said.

The Victoria Hotel has offered take-away when restriction conditions have allowed during each lockdown. “But as each lockdown comes and goes, we notice that take-aways drop off,” he said.

Paul Carter and Tenille Thompson at the Victoria Hotel. LH PHOTO And in the hours before last Thursday’s lockdown was announced and with speculation rising of a new raft of restrictions, several Loddon accommodation destinations reported

a rise in inquiries for bookings coming out of Melbourne. They also had bookings cancelled before the formal announcement.

For other businesses, stock was quickly put behind closed doors

for the second time in a fortnight.

Bianca Rothacker at Bridgewater Nursery has worked overtime to keep bare-rooted fruit trees in prime condition for re-opening this week.

Uncertainty ends hopes for big events TWO big community celebrations planned for spring have been cancelled.

Organisers of Inglewood Alive and Laanecoorie Gold Bash at the weekend said continuing uncertainty with COVID restrictions had forced them to make the difficult decisions.

Inglewood Alive secretary Suzi Birthisel wrote to sponsors saying the committee did not want to “jeopardise the reputation and standing of the festival” and decided to wait until 2022 to be back bigger and better after also being forced to postpone last year.

“Unfortunately, as this year has unfolded it has become apparent that we are not in a position to host a large event. This is

WAIT ANOTHER YEAR: Crowds enjoy Inglewood Alive. due to a number of different factors, including the uncertainty of frequent lockdowns, social distancing and check-in requirements and the inability to appro-

priately fundraise in the current environment,” she said.

Suzi said the festival, first held in 2012, had built up a strong following of patrons,

Cancellation of Laanecoorie’s 10th gold bash planned for 2020 was announced on social media, saying “this may not come as a surprise to you all but we have sadly had to make the decision to cancel”.

And Inglewood Lions Club has abandoned efforts to reschedule its changeover dinner.

Secretary Deb Coone said: “It is proving very difficult to keep changing our booking and reschedule the caterers.

“So at this point in time we are looking at having a ‘big shin dig’ at the end of the year,” Deb said.

In March, Wedderburn’s gold jambouree was also cancelled because of COVID restrictions and other events have been affected by each lockdown.

THE REGIONAL RESTRICTIONS z There are no restrictions on the reasons to leave home. z Residents of regional Victoria must not travel to Metropolitan Melbourne other than for permitted reasons. These include: for authorised work or permitted education, to visit an intimate partner, for care and compassionate reasons, to access necessary good and services provided this is to the closest facility where these can be obtained. z While in metropolitan Melbourne, residents of regional Victoria must comply with all directions that are in force. z There are no restrictions on travelling to other parts of regional Victoria.

Face masks are mandatory indoors and outdoors. You do not need to wear a mask in your own home, or if a lawful exception applies. z Private gatherings in the home are not permitted. z You can see friends and family outdoors in a public place in a group of up to 10 people. z Community sport is open for all ages for both training and competition.

No crowds allowed. z Shops, including hospitality, are open with a density limit of 1 person per 4 square metres. z Religious gatherings and ceremonies are allowed, with density limits and no more than 100 people. z Face masks must be carried at all times and must be worn indoors and outdoors.

Ram sale hold THE McGauchie family was all set for the Terrick West Poll Merino Stud on-property auction last Friday when Lockdown 6.0 was announced.

Robyn McGauchie said the sale had been postponed to next Wednesday.

In a bright spot for the day, the stud had a private sale of its lead ram from Hamilton’s Sheep Connect sale for $13,000.

4 | Loddon HERALD Thursday August 12, 2021

Road upgrades top list in $4m work spend

LODDON Shire will take to the roads as part of a $4 million infrastructure program this financial year.

Councillors have adopted the list of priority works for the next 12 months that include Federal Government funding from Roads to Recovery and Local Roads and Community Infrastructure program.

The $3.98 million 2021-2022 program is topped by $1,067 million to reseal and final seal approximately 41km of the shire’s sealed road network, $318,788 for local road gravel resheets and $146,821 for local road shoulder resheets.

There is also funding of $699,829 for the renewal of sections of Tandarra-Serpentine Road, Wedderburn-Wedderburn Junction Road, and Prairie Road, and $100,336 to seal Potters Hill Lane, Market Street and Nixon Street in Inglewood.

The program includes funding of $150,600 for three projects to improve road safety with removal of hazardous trees adjacent to the road shoulder on Dunns Road at Kamarooka North

and improving the safety of Lily Street in Bridgewater on the corner before the Laucke Flour Mill.

There is also $412,816 to replace 460 metres of footpath in Wedderburn and Tarnagulla, and replace a section of kerb and channel in Grant Street, Inglewood.

Drainage projects at Korong Vale and Inglewood share in a $281,500 allocation for urban and township drainage projects.

Council has included an additional allocation to complete the investigation and design of the Skinners Flat Reservoir dam and spillway restoration at Wedderburn..

Funding of $210,000 has been allocated for box culvert replacement on Gladfield Road, Pyramid Hill and there is $105,000 for parks and gardens projects, including the replacement of the barbecue and shelter at the Pyramid Hill Lions East Park.

Renewing septic systems at several locations in Tarnagulla and Dingee are included in funding of $492,376 for a number of building projects,

Boort Cubs and Scouts join members from the region for World Scout Day.

Enthusiastic Scouts ready for jump back into the billy carts SCOUT leader Garry Schmidt has fingers crossed that billy carts will be racing later this month in Boort.

The Lake Boort Scouts missed hosting the annual event when COVID restrictions hit last year.

Garry has been organising the billy cart derby since 1995 and says it’s always an anticipated event for Scouts from across the region.

He said COVID restrictions had impacted membership and participation in the Boort troop

but was confident that numbers would soon be on the increase.

“At Swan Hill and Lake Boga, there have been more people joining and I expect the same here in Boort,” he said.

Boort troop members joined Cub and Joey Scouts from Kerang, Lake Boga and Swan Hill for the Northern Rivers District’s World Scout Scarf Day this month.

Garry said: “Each year we do different countries celebrating a country’s dress, customs,

games, craft, Souting history, and food by participating in five bases, representing Poland, Kenya, Spain, Poland, Peru, and Australia.

“Our Boort members represented Spain and really enjoyed the day,” he said.

Northern Rivers Scout Fellowship leaders Ross Swinton and Col Herbert ran a radio base during the day where the Cubs and Joey Scouts were able to speak to other amateur radio operators from around the state.

Offices, facilities re-open after lockdown Please note that Council offices and facilities have re-opened to the public following the lifting of lockdown for regional Victoria.

Facemasks are still required to be worn indoors and outdoors whenever you leave your home and it is a requirement of entry to our offices and facilities that you continue to wear a mask and check in.

For full details regarding current restrictions visit www.coronavirus.vic.gov.au

Fee waiver policy for community groups

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

Take time to ask

Council regularly receives requests from community groups to provide funding support in the form of fee waivers or reductions for a large range of programs, projects, events or initiatives. Council has a policy in place that provides guidance for these types of requests.

R U OK? Day is Thursday 9 September 2021, but you don’t need to wait until then to ask if someone in your world is struggling with life’s ups and downs. You also don’t have to be an expert to keep the conversation going when someone says they’re not OK. By knowing what to say you can help someone feel supported and access appropriate help long before they’re in crisis, which can make a really positive difference to their life.

For more information and to access the policy and associated application form please visit www.loddon.vic.gov.au/Current-fees-and-charges

To find out how to ask “R U OK” please head to www.ruok.org.au/how-to-ask

Cr Dan Straub Terrick Ward 0429 236 399

Cr Gavan Holt Wedderburn Ward 0408 943 008

WEDDERBURN 41 High Street Wedderburn 3515

SERPENTINE 37 Peppercorn Way Serpentine 3516

T: 5494 1200 F: 5494 3003 E: loddon@loddon.vic.gov.au

T: 5494 1202 F: 5437 8407 E: loddon@loddon.vic.gov.au

Monday to Friday 8.15am to 4.45pm

PLEASE NOTE: Office currently closed

River camping date set, wait on locations LODDON River locations where camping will be allowed on Crown land licenced to local farmers may not be known until new regulations are official next month.

The State Government last Friday announced the opening of new camping areas alongside rivers on September 1 “with hundreds to follow”.

However, the first 27 sites on the Loddon, Goulburn, Broken, Ovens, Campaspe, and Murray Rivers have not been named.

A government spokesperson said: “Details of sites that have been assessed as appropriate for camping will be published on the DELWP website when the regulations come into effect on September 1.”

“During consultation we listened to a wide range of stakeholders including Crown land licence holders, recreational users including campers and anglers, interest groups and representative organisations.”

The first sites to be assessed were chosen based on expected demand from campers and anglers.

The Government says that during the assessment, environmental values and suitability for camping will be considered as well as any impact on Aboriginal cultural heritage.

Public safety and agricultural impacts have been considered in developing the regulations to determine where people will be able to camp.

The Government says the public are already able to access licenced Crown river frontages for recreation.

“Many of the regulations will be similar to those currently in place for these activities and we would expect recreational visitors to be respectful of the activities of licensees and landholders.”

However, Victorian Farmers’ Federation and the Nationals have been critical of the Government’s move that will allow camping for up to 28 days within 200 metres of farmers’ homes.

The VFF wants a dedicated stakeholder reference group to advise the Government on the implementation of the upcoming camping regulations.

President Emma Germano said the regulations would considerably impact a number of stakeholders.

“Farmers and the environment will be significantly impacted by the camping regulations set to come into force in just over a month’s time., ” she said.

“It’s only fair that those impacted have a means to have their voice heard,”

Cod at new home in creek MORE than 30 Murray Cod saved from a Loddon Valley irrigation channel have found a new home in the Serpentine Creek.

The fish were rescued during routine winter channel maintenance.by Goulburn Murray Water between Pyramid Hill and Kerang and taken to the creek last week.

GMW distribution customer service manager – west Paul Gilchrist said the fish were at risk of reduced water, so

the Victorian Fisheries Authority was contacted. “They were willing to help in a short-notice relocation effort,” Mr Gilchrist said.

“GMW staff assisted with dewatering while VFA staff assisted with fish capture and relocation, including the use of a purpose-made trailer with aerated tank.

“Thirty three of these iconic fish, measuring from 45-80cm, were relocated to Serpentine Creek.”

Census count: Two million and rising TUESDAY was Census night across Australia gathering the snapshot of local households and communities.

Loddon residents received a special online code to complete the five-yearly Census or could fill in the paper form. More than 2.3 million forms had been completed before Census night The Census is compulsory and the Aus-

tralian Bureau of Statistics says it can still be completed after Tuesday night.

“If you are yet to receive your Census instructions, or would like to complete a separate Census form to the rest of your household, you can get a Census number or request a paper form on the Census website,” said Census executive director Andrew Henderson.

Loddon HERALD Thursday August 12, 2021 | 5

6 | Loddon HERALD Thursday August 12, 2021

SPECIAL REPORT

THE SEARCH FOR BETTER PRICES MEANS ...

CHANGING MARKETS

By CHRIS EARL

THE lure of Bendigo’s traditional cattle market is disappearing for many Loddon farmers.

Reduced stock levels and more selling options have contributed to the reduction in numbers being offered at Bendigo Livestock exchange.

The selling centre moved cattle from the designated Tuesday market to part of Monday’s sheep yarding 18 months ago.

A continued decline in numbers - just 18 head were offered three weeks ago - was the final trigger to move to fortnightly cattle sales.

This week’s first sale under the new format had 80 head, a vast improvement but way inferior to rival selling centres at Echuca and Swan Hill with 800 and more head commanding bidder attention.

Local district producers have told the Loddon Herald those northern centres have better facilities, attract more buyers and bring better prices.

Adding to competition and koptions for selling platforms is the explosion of online auctions.

Calivil’s Max Carson sells his Angus-Hereford cross vealers at Bendigo as he has done for more than 60 years but can remember the old saleyards when “they were full of cattle”.

“There’s certainly been a decline in cattle numbers around here. That was caused by drought and then it just became too expensive for many to buy back in,” he said.

Max sold 10 head at Bendigo earlier this year, his selling centre of habit.

“But Bendigo missed the boat ... they should have put a roof over the yards years ago,” he said. “Things (for numbers) might have been different now ... it’s one of the few regional markets without a roof.”

Max said Bendigo had been the family’s service city. “If we move our selling to Echuca, that’s where we’d do business.”

Committed to ‘competitive, viable facility’

Rod Baker has moved his selling focus to Shepparton and online auction platforms. LH PHOTO Rob Barker in nearby Dingee says he has not sold at Bendigo for four years.

The Angus producer says buyers at Shepparton return him better prices.

“We are getting good prices for our type of cattle in Shepparton.

Bendigo is where cattle sell well to butchers,” he said.

Rob says market options had also seen him expand into direct selling and through the online AuctionsPlus.

Industry sources have told the Loddon Herald the fortnightly cattle sale trial at Bendigo, while an effort to reverse the trend “is going to be an uphill battle”.

“With Shepparton and Echuca only an hour away and with cattle around those areas, it’s going to be tough,” the source said.

“Once you load stock, an hour’s nothing for modern transport.”

DESPITE a quick decline in Bendigo Livestock Exchange cattle numbers, there is a commitment to making the facility “as viable and competitive as possible”.

Greater Bendigo council’s manager business services and economic development Ben Devanny said talks were ongoing with stakeholders from across the region.

He said the future of cattle had been a topic at meetings in recent years and hoped the fortnightly sales would bring better numbers and prices.

Stock agents, including FP Nevins at Inglewood and Bendigo-based firms representing Loddon clients, have been advocating for shade cover at the livestock exchange.

Mr Devanny said this year’s Bendigo council budget included funds to investigate costings and designs to make the saleyards more attractive to producers, agents and buyers.

He said it was recognised that Bendigo served a larger region, including the Loddon.

He also said any decline in cattle numbers would not affect fees for sheep sales.

Charting where cattle sell

Max Carson has farmed at Calivil for more than six decades and viewed Bendigo as his selling centre. LH PHOTO

THE decline in cattle numbers across the Loddon and other parts of northern Victoria is reflected in Bendigo sale offerings.

Bendigo Associated Stock Agents president Richard Leitch said that a decade ago, between 800 and 1000 head would be offered on a Tuesday. This year, the highest offering has been 120, the lowest just 18.

Loddon HERALD Thursday August 12, 2021 | 7

Trotter demand slows to crawl FEARS of increased imports and COVID restrictions on public and home gatherings has impacted the local and Australian pig market, according to Deb Hancock.

The Inglewood butcher owner and Murphy’s Creek pig producer said it had been usual to supply up to 40 pigs a week to a Benalla abattoir.

“They have just taken 20 for the first time since COVID hit last March,” Deb said.

And while the price for pigs has dropped more than $1.50 a kilogram, Deb said: “It’s not as though feed prices have gone south.”

“We starting to see a lot of little

piggeries go up for sale as these trends unfold. Australian pork is really taking a whack,” she said.

Deb said that had it not been for easing of restrictions before Christmas last year, dozens of pigs would still be in the freezer.

“Once people were able to come together again, there was a demand and it was pleasing that they still were buying Australian pork,” she said.

“But for quite a while, we have had to put a hold on production. It’s no good producing if you can’t sell.

“It’s been hard at times to keep motivated but we do and there’s still

great support from people in communities right around the area.

“And one thing that has come out of COVID is that Melbourne people are probably appreciating good country produce more. We’re still seeing people call in from Melbourne to buy local meats.”

While the price of beef and lamb had stayed at higher levels, Deb says chicken “hasn’t moved for something like four years”.

“The risks faced by other countries with African swine fever just reminds us how important it is to protect Australian chicken production and the total meat industry.”

Hanging pigs in Inglewood

Autumn environmental flow tip for Lake Boort LAKE Boort is on track for new environmental flows, according to North Central Catchment Management Authority.

The prediction came as it was announced Lake Meran was likely to fill this spring after the North Central Catchment Management Authority and Victorian Environmental Water Holder secured water for the environment from outside the Loddon region.

Lake Leaghur is also planned to be filled for the first time with water for the environment, after a successful priming earlier in the year.

The flow into Lake Boort is expected in autumn.

“The Boort wetlands are really important ecologically and culturally. And they’re always a key part of our focus,“ North Central Catchment Management Authority chief executive officer Brad Drust said.

“And we know how much the Boort and Lake Meran communities were looking forward to some good news this year. And we have been working hard to deliver it.

“The Boort wetlands are large, and with multiple sites needing water in the same year, in addition to flows needed in the Loddon River system (which shares the same bucket), there is a high demand on the entitlements

of water for the environment across the whole Loddon system.

“North Central CMA and the VEWH have been working hard to find options for meeting the most important priorities across the whole system.”

The VEWH will look to source water for the environment from outside the Loddon system, to ensure there is enough to meet all the system’s needs over the next year.

“We’re looking forward to these important watering events across the Loddon system”, VEWH co-CEO Dr Sarina Loo said.

“We’re mindful though that there are still some challenges in delivering the water through the channel system.

“That’s because irrigation water takes precedence when it

comes to delivery, but we are confident we will have access to the right amount of water at the right time.

“We are working closely with Goulburn Murray Water to make that happen and will know more closer to the preferred dates.

“The restoration and rehabilitation of these waterways is important and something the whole community is behind.”

Goulburn Murray Water’s allocation outlook, recent inflows to storages, and the Bureau of Meteorology’s rainfall outlooks, have given water authorities confidence watering priorities identified for the Boort wetlands, as well as the Loddon River system, are likely to receive water as planned this financial year.

The delivery of water to Lake Meran is in line with the 10-year

Environmental Water Management Plan.

The Lake Leaghur fill will build on the autumn watering and help promote growth of the wetland’s redgums and aquatic vegetation, to provide high-quality habitat for waterbirds, frogs, and turtles.

At Lake Boort, a partial fill in autumn will help waterbird, frog, and turtle habitat establish over winter, as well as the culturally significant spiny flat sedge.

The Lake Boort flow will also deliver water to the river redgum, blackbox trees, and aquatic species in the important swampy woodland zone.

“Even though there has been quite a bit of rain across the region in recent weeks, these wetlands and rivers are starting from a long way behind the eight ball,” Mr Drust said.

“River regulation, climate change, and landscape changes mean even in wet years they don’t get the water they did before European occupation.

“Water for the environment works within the current irrigation system to deliver the right amount of water at the right time of the year, with the water that’s available.”

Volumes and dates for all the Boort wetland environmental flows, and the Loddon River, will be known closer to the flow dates.

The A, B and C of local kinder plans KINDERGARTENS in the Loddon have moved to Plan C as they take enrolments for 2022.

Planned information sessions and open days at five kindergartens have been thwarted by COVID lockdowns.

Shire director community wellbeing Wendy Gladman said families with children eligible for three-year-old sessions next year had now been mailed information packs.

“Unfortunately, current restrictions do not allow for visitors to undertake tours of our services. However, when restrictions ease, if families would like to visit a kindergarten, this can be arranged,” she said.

With 2022 enrolments clolsing at the end of August, council says current figures showed Boort was at 50 per cent of predicted enrolment, Dingee 65 per cent, Inglewood 45 per cent, Pyramid Hill 40 per cent and Wedderburn 30 per cent.

Loddon kindergartens offer 15 hours of funded three and four-year-old kindergarten programs. “If parents have any questions or would like more information regarding a kindergarten they are encouraged to contact council’s early years team,” Ms Gladman said.

Online kindergarten enrolments can made at council’s website.

8 | Loddon HERALD Thursday August 12, 2021

Local land technique project taken to national audience I HAD the opportunity to present to the National Landcare Conference last week on the topic of on-farm value of biodiversity through sustainable agriculture practices.

The conference took in conservation, community engagement and sustainable agriculture streams and was attended by over 2500 online delegates from across Australia.

Loddon Plains Landcare Network is placing itself firmly in the central Victorian landscape as a leader in sustainable agriculture with a focus on: z Community and social capital; z The development of family farming businesses to move towards sustainable and regenerative practices; and z Adoption of these practices to enhance biodiversity values in private land.

The talk presented the Reading Landscapes project, a project and methodology that has been developed for the central Victorian Goldfields, Plains and Riverine landscapes with the support of Loddon Plains Landcare Network and the State Government’s Our Catchment Our Communities Leadership Program in Innovative land management techniques.

A key aim of the Reading Landscapes project was to provide an entry-level starting

By DANNY PETTINGILL point for farmers and landowners to develop their understanding of landscape function of different types of landscape assets on farm.

It is also intended to provide an opportunity for adoption of sustainable or regenerative farm practices that provide benefit to farm business and biodiversity.

The project looks at differences in compaction, potential in soil moisture retention, vegetation cover and the abundance of flying invertebrate pollinators within different land uses and agricultural practices and ideologies as a way of baselining and designing for better biodiversity outcomes.

The Reading Landscapes methodology includes a number of elements including localised mapping and drone imagery, penetrometer readings for compaction and moisture retention in soils, vegetation/grass canopy indexing, and invertebrate counts to determine the health and potential of a farming landscape.

The presentation for the national conference provided key messages in the benefits of improved biodiversity for farming practices and the farming landscape through farm design, land

stewardship and placing a value on farm biodiversity.

With a long-term view on landscape and farm planning toward land use benefits for farm and nature, productive farming landscapes can be designed to promote biodiversity to advance sustainable farming practices and regeneration of landscape assets, creating opportunities for enhanced biodiversity and improving on-farm efficiency and management opportunities.

The Reading Landscapes model and framework presented a the conference is being developed as an approach that can provide flexibility in decision making for enterprise and biodiversity outcomes.

The key messages were: z Understand how your landscape functions on your farm and identify how it needs to function in your farming system and what it needs to achieve. This can create a deeper understanding of where to incorporate landscape assets for greater production benefits such as protection of stock during lambing and slowing the flow of water for better moisture retention in soils. z Set goals to achieve good landscape outcomes for function and resilience; z Use decision making tools that allow adaptive management systems to be developed for long

Loddon Landcare facilitator Danny Pettingill term resilience such as vegetation cover assessments and moving to rotational grazing or planning cover crops in your rotations in order to minimise bare ground and provide food sources for insects and birds; z Design systems with well profiled perennial root systems and year round food sources for wild species; z Use dense strata plantings in 30 to 50 metre-wide, ‘arcs’ or block plantings to enable stock to use the entire perimeter for protection; z Design ‘arcs’ ~200 metres apart, 50 metres wide to encourage opportunities for invertebrates, woodland birds

opportunities decrease as flight distances increase; and z The link between soil management and opportunities for biodiversity is vital to functioning ecosystems; Healthy soils provide foundations for biodiversity, landscapes function, moisture retention, resilient landscape systems.

Danny is the Landcare facilitator and project officer for Loddon Plains Landcare Network and in this role is committed to taking action and bringing the community’s voice into decision-making processes relevant to land management practices and strategies in agriculture and the natural environment.

SHEEP MARKET A SLIGHT lift in both lamb and sheep numbers took the total yarding to just over 20,000 head at Bendigo this week.

It was a winter line-up of lambs, with a lot of plainer types in small lots as tailend drafts are sold.

The supply of quality fed lambs in the heavy weight categories continued to decline. The market was cheaper, with the general run of lambs averaging $10 to $20 easier, while secondary types fell by $30/ head and more compared to the sale of a week ago when it should be noted Bendigo had a very buoyant sale.

Quality was a contributing factor to the cheaper trend, however demand also weakened with not all the regular buyers operating or buying to capacity.

Competition for light lambs was limited

to a few MK processing orders and small Merinos and crossbreds were also considerably cheaper.

A smaller supply of heavy export lambs over 30kg cwt sold from $260 to a top of $292/head.

Heavy lambs sold mostly from $230 to $260, and the better finished heavy trade lambs made from $190 to $230/head.

These lambs were estimated as tracking between 820c to 890c, with only limited sales over 900c/kg cwt this week.

Buyers became very selective on secondary trade lambs that often showed frame but limited fat cover or were in long woolly skins, paying from $160 to $185/head, averaging at below 800c/kg cwt at times.

Bidding for light lambs was at lower

levels, ranging from $90 to $137/head for most. Agents penned a few hundred new season lambs, with quality just reasonable rather than outstanding. The better heavy trade young lambs sold from $200 to a top of $250/head.

Sheep numbers continue to lift as ewes are sold post lamb weaning and shearing.

Bigger lines of Merinos and crossbreds were available this week.

Mutton prices were cheaper across sheep of all weights falling by $10 to $25/ head. Lead runs of extra heavy crossbred ewes made from $200 to $232, and the best big Merinos ranged from $212 to $241/head. The general run of heavy and trade weighted sheep sold from $130 to $180/head with the better lines of mutton estimated to average from 630c to 680c/ kg cwt.

SHEEP SUCKERS J & S Cox Bamawm (40) $201.

CROSSBRED LAMBS Ballinode Rochester (41) $292, CN & DW Slatter Elmore (26) $291, Wilson Farming Tocumwal (85) $290, Sagar Barley Holdings Yea (12) $290, Colin Osbourne Boort (30) $274, O’Sullivan Trading Elmore (26) $268, A & R Gough Meipoll (65) $267, T McDonald Sutherland (18) $260, A & E Moon Durham Ox (43) $255, Ross Fisicaro Finlay (53) $250, Figtree Lucerne P/L Koyuga (125) $239, GF & CM Rathjen Colbinabbin (38) $232, RF Cooper Bagshot Nth (21) $228, AK Collins P/L Bridgewater (39) $222, Nuttbyrne P/L Knowsley (41) $210.

MERINO LAMBS Wilson Farming Tocumwal (109) $239, MD & PP Connors Moama (60) $210, D & S Erwin

Emu (75) $195, DW & MJ McKinnon Marong (60) $192, Botheras Narraport (38) $189.

MERINO WETHERS D Draper Glenalbyn (76) $196.

CROSSBRED EWES GF & JC Leed Pyramid Hill (60) $232, R & N Comer P/L Drummartin (83) $230, Everdale Holdings P/L Mitiamo (101) $230, W & G Perry Nagambie (90) $230, The Kildounan Estate Family Trust Warracknabeal (83) $226, Yentrac Nominees Tatura (37) $225, H & P Bennett Mia Mia (16) $220, WD,RG & NW Robinson Japarit (38) $220, RT,RG & K Martin, Emu (39) $210, Rinaldi Farms, Woomboota (28) $185.

MERINO EWES A & E Moon Durham Ox (52) $241, D & K Barker Nullawil (67) $230, BW & DJ McKenzie Jeparit (161) $227, Sohnic Hose Traynors Lagoon (80) $225, V Byrne Toolleen (30) $222, Gold Murray Investments Shepparton (72) $216, FU Cheng Sutton Grange (60) $216, L,R & AD Mills Pyramid Hill (49) $176.

CATTLE The first of the fortnightly sales saw 80 head come forward.

Competition and prices were excellent.

Steers reached a top of $5.20 per kilo.

Vealers made a top of $5.40 and cows

GRAIN BOORT Grain Co-op prices at Tuesday.

Wheat - H2: $295 FOT. APW1: $295 FOT. ASW: $295 FOT. Barley - PL1 $238 FOT. SP1 $238 FOT. BAR1: $238 FOT. New crop - APW MG: $285. BAR1MG: $227. Non-GM canola: $787 +/- AOF.

Loddon HERALD Thursday August 12, 2021 | 9

FEATURES

Buckleys grind the grain

By KEN ARNOLD THE BUCKLEY brothers were born in Ireland and made their way to the central Victorian goldfields in the 1850s.

John would establish a flour mill with Edward when the older brother arrived in 1859.

The Buckley Brothers, Sandhurst Flour Mills, partnership was dissolved on November 12, 1864, when John was to continue conducting the Sandhurst mill.

The flour mill was offered for auction in January 1877 but it failed to meet the reserve of £3500.

As the Sandhurst partnership was being dissolved, the brothers were about to form a partnership with Lancaster Bridge so as to establish a flour mill at Newbridge.

Edward had returned to England to purchase all the necessary machinery. The business was known as Buckley, Bridge & Co. Edward Buckley was soon involved with Newbridge Agricultural Society show society, this show being considered only second to what we now know as the Royal Melbourne Show. He was awarded first prize for his bottled Colonial wine and for the best three bottles of wine in 1864.

He also won a medal for merit for his wheat and first prize for 200 lbs trade sample of flour at the Newbridge District Agricultural Society show in March 1872, GM Boower did likewise at the 1876 North Western Agricultural Society show.

He was at some time a judge at the Newbridge and the Bendigo Agricultural and Horticultural Society shows.

Edward Buckley did not restrict his exhibitions to the local shows as he won a silver medal for his wheat at a large exhibition held over summer 1872, a merit for his wheat at the Vienna Exhibition in August 1874 followed by an award at the Philadelphia Exhibition in October 1876 for his wheat and oats, followed by another medal at the Paris Exhibition in 1878 for his sheaves of wheat, however he had died before the latter was to be presented.

The Newbridge partnership was dissolved on January 22, 1866, with Edward Buckley and Lancaster Bridge continuing to trade.

Tenders were called for the supply of up to 80,000 bricks on July 24, 1868. Tenders were next called for masons, brick layers and carpenters to build a five-storey corn and flour store extension for Buckley, Bridge & Co, along with 20,000 feet of hardwood in September 1868. Eventually Messrs Davies and Edwards completed the brickworks whilst Messrs Hamilton and Hutchinson did the carpentry work.

The building was described as having walls 10 inches thick whilst the building was 33 feet square and 40 feet high.

Buckley and Bridge dissolved their partnership on January 27, 1871, at which time

1. How many gold medals did Australia win at the 2020 (21) Olympics?

2. At what other games were as many golds won?

3. What country this year won the most medals - gold, silver, bronze?

4. How many blue Eucy trees have been planted in the Loddon by Bosistos for harvesting?

5. Where is the TV show Home & Away Set? 6. Where was Blue Heelers set?

7. Who lives at 0001 Cemetery Lane?

8. Who lives at 518 Crestview Drive, Beverly Hills, California.

9. Who live at 565 N. Clinton Drive, Milwaukee, Wisconsin?

10. What is the name of the MGM movie company lion?

11. How much does it cost to buy a miner’s right in Victoria.

12. And how long is the licence valid for?

13. The original miner’s right, valid for one year, cost how much?

14. When did the last Victorian Railways stream train run?

15. Of the 25 most poisonous snakes in the world – how many live in Australia?

16. How many Federal Territories are there in Australia?

17. Can you name them?

18. The European Union started as what organisation in 1950?

19. The new James Bond film is due to finally be released this year. What is its title?

20. How many Bond films starred Sir Sean Connery?

ANSWERS 1. 17. 2. Athens 2004. 3. United States. 4.

Four million. 5. Summer Bay. 6. Mt Thomas.

7. Addams Fanily. 8. Clampetts (Beverly Hillbillies). 9. Cunninghams (Happy Days).

10. Leo. 11. $25,20. 12. 10 years. 13. One pound. 14. 1972. 15. 21. 16. 10. 17. Northern Territory, Australian Capital Territory & Jervis Bay Territory, Ashmore and Cartier Islands, Christmas Island, the Cocos (Keeling) Islands, the Coral Sea Islands, the Australian Antarctic Territory, the Territory of the Heard and McDonald Islands, Norfolk Island. 18.

European Coal and Steel Community. 19.

No Time to Do? 20. Seven.

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Buckley was to continue on his own account. A bone crushing plant and steamer were offered for sale in September 1871.

During 1873 30 tons of Buckley’s Newbridge flour was sold at £ 3/2/6 ar ton, described as not first class.

As Edward Buckley had a stroke in February 1877 the flour mill was eventually offered for sale or lease a number of times from November 1877. This resulted in long-term employee JM Patchell leaving. The Tarnagulla & Llanelly Courier newspaper published a report on the auction of the flour mill on May 31, 1878 but it would appear that the mill must have been passed in at £1400, however a four-

roomed brick cottage with out buildings, well stocked fruit trees and gardens was sold for £150/0/0 to a Mr Brown of the firm of Roy & Co, whilst a 53-acre paddock fronting the Loddon river was knocked down to Tarnagulla business man E. Rosman for £10/7/6 per acre, Mr H. Twigg purchased several town lots at £3/10/0 each, whilst the 320-acre paddock at Mysia, with house and out buildings, was sold to W. Tupper of Laanecoorie for £4 an acre.

Eighteen heavy draught horses, eight saddle horses, 20 head of cattle, pigs waggon, a buggy, dray and sundries made various prices. At that time the mill was described as being four storeys high, built of brick, containing five pairs of stones, bone and corn crusher, 22 horsepower engine; a seven-roomed house, with the neces-

sary out houses, twelve stall stable, coachhouse, store room, and carpenter’s shop, the whole standing on one acre of land.

It is not known how productive the mill was but the prolonged drought caused the mill to temporarily stop production in January 1886, however, tenders were called to enlarge the mill on August 15, 1888. The flour mill was next offered for auction, on November 23, 1895, at the Newbridge hotel, by the Trustees, Executors and Agency Limited, Melbourne, on behalf of the estate of Edward Buckley.

The Tarnagulla & Llanelly Courier newspaper reported on March 4, 1916 that the plant at the old flour mill was being dismantled by JJ Matthews, it to be removed to Melbourne. At that time it was also reported that the mill had been idle for 40 years.

Edward Buckley, a JP, was very active in the township of Newbridge - a member of the school committee, a judge at the Newbridge Agricultural Show, on the committee for the public reserve on May 17, 1865 when the Morning Star Cricket Club requested the use six of the 70 acres, a keen supporter of building a railway line from Kangaroo Flat to Lockwood, Woodstock, Tarnagulla, Newbridge onto Inglewood in 1862. Buckley was later elected the president of the Sandhurst, Tarnagulla and Dunolly Railway League by 1873.

Although there much agitation for a railway line through the Lockwood and Woodstock area we now know that a railway was built from Sandhurst to Inglewood, currently unused, whilst another line was built from Dunolly to Inglewood, when opened this having four return trains a day but now it is used as a grain line. Most of our readers probably would not remember another line that was built from Maldon to Woodstock West, it to terminate near to the state school and the former little blue stone church. Eventually this line was opened as far as Shelbourne however the earth works were basically completed right through to Blossom Hill road. This line was closed in 1969 when it was burnt out by a bush fire.

Edward Buckley married Margaret Helena, in 1863 and died at Newbridge on April 2, 1878. He was survived by his wife, four sons and four daughters.

Margaret held a clearing auction on March 1891 in readiness to move to Melbourne. Later the old family house was razed to the ground by a fire in 1915, Margaret held an auction to sell the corrugated iron and timber salvaged from the fire.

Lancaster Bridge died on May 8, 1910, whilst wife Ellen died on January 8, 1932.

She lived in Newbridge for over 50 years. The township lost a very staunch member of the local Anglican church as Mrs Bridge was the Sunday School teacher, organist and choir leader.

10 | Loddon HERALD Thursday August 12, 2021

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

PUBLIC NOTICES

Morris - Ian

Morris - Ian

24/6/1943 - 04/08/2021

Brother-in Law of Margaret & Don Uncle of Kerrie, Jo & Peter.

Will be remembered by us all for his friendship and generosity.

He will be sadly missed, RIP Mate!

Dearly loved husband of Aileen Loving father and father in law to Shayne, Karen, Rachel and Jammie Friend to Alan and Steven Adored poppy to Shannon, Ebony and Tait and Georgia.

Life long friend to Ray and family. xx “ I’m not lost I’ve gone fishing “ For live streaming details go to www.adamsfunerals.com.au

MORRIS, Ian

Our deepest sympathy to Aileen, Shayne, Karen and Rachel.

Uncle Ian you always had a smile on your face through the good times and the bad.

I will miss the weekly catch up on the seat outside the IGA , catching up with the family news.

Rest in Peace Sue, Ross Kelly & Hayden, Jessica & TJ and Emma

Morris - Ian

MORRIS, Ian

Loving husband to Aileen for 54 years.

Our sympathy to Aileen, Shayne, Karen and Rachel.

Those special memories of you will always bring a smile if only I could have you back for just a little while. But you’re forever in my heart until we meet again. RIP xx

Loving Uncle of Stephen & Tracy, Sue & Ross, Anne & Sturat (Dec) Glenda & Wayne and families.

Dear Brother – law to Veronica (Dec) & Bob.

2022 AUSTRALIA DAY AWARDS Loddon Shire Council is now receiving nominations for Citizen of the Year, Young Citizen of the Year, and Community Group/Event of the Year awards. These awards are acknowledgement of outstanding Australians and community groups within the Loddon Shire.

The criteria and eligibility for these awards requires an outstanding achievement or contribution towards the values such as a fair go, a concern for the environment, desire for prosperity with a share for all, participation in sport, cultural diversity, the importance of strong community values and support systems and a keen sense that we have a contribution to make on the world stage.

Loddon Shire is also now receiving nominations for the 2021 Community Service Awards. Eligibility for these awards requires an outstanding contribution to the local community over the 2021 year, or giving noteworthy service to the local community over a number of years. There is an award for each Ward (Boort, Inglewood, Tarnagulla, Terrick and Wedderburn) and they will be presented on Australia Day 2022.

Please provide as much supporting information as you can, as this will assist the Committee in the evaluation of candidates.

Nominations for the awards close on Friday 29 October 2021. Nomination forms and further information may be obtained from www.loddon.vic.gov.au, or by email at australiaday@loddon.vic.gov.au

Louise STALEY MP

REVELATION

LIBERAL MEMBER FOR RIPON

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

LouiseStaleyRipon

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

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

Morris - Ian In loving memory of a great Dad, mentor and mate to Shayne. Fond memories of our camping, fire brigade and golf days and for being my biggest supporter at bowls.

I will have a glass of port for you Dad x

Morris - Ian On August the 4th you took your last breath, you have always been there for me through good times and bad. You are our inspiration Dad , whatever life through at you you always managed to get through it.

Love your daughter Karen and Alan x

Morris - Ian You where the best father a daughter could ask for and I was the luckiest for having you as my Dad. Your love was unconditional. You inspired me everyday with your determination.

I will treasure the memory of you walking me down the aisle and dancing with me on my wedding day . I’m going to miss you so much.

Love you Dad from your daughter Rachel x I’m going to miss you barking orders at me mate . R.I.P your son in law Jammie x

Morris - Ian We are the luckiest girls to have you as our Poppy.

You where the strongest and bravest man we know. You where always so proud of us and we where just as proud of you. Thank you for always loving us and always being there to cheer us on in life. We miss you more than anything and we love you a million Poppy.

Love your granddaughters Shannon, Ebony and Georgia x

Morris - Ian To a wonderful friend and brother we never had.

Those we love don’t go away they walk beside us everyday. In our hearts forever you will be.

You will be sadly missed Ian. Love Ray Miatke and family x

CLASSIFIEDS CONNECT COMMUNITIES

EMPLOYMENT

WEAVER, Jennie

For many years Jennie has been a highly valued and dedicated member of the Boort Historical Society and will be sadly missed.

The members of the Society wish to extend their sincere condolences to the Weaver family.

WEAVER, Jennie Remembered fondly and respected by William (Bill) Clark, Jeannette Clark (nee Weaver) (both dec.) and Aunt to Peter, Sally, Geoff and Andrew (Dec) and their families.

Loved by all and especially remembered for her love of ‘Jock’, her family and grandchildren.

Well respected for her community efforts to Boort and greater community and a love of Southerton Vale and Boort as a whole.

A special person that will be missed but not forgotten.

ThANKS On behalf of our Dad, Peter Byrne, we would like to thank The Boort Hospital,Tania Buchanan, Ray Stoneman, Lyn and Murray Sinclair, Dawn Anderson, The Men’s Shed and all who looked after him while he wasn’t well.

LODDON AUSTRALIA DAY COMMITTEE Loddon Shire Council is calling for nominations from residents of both Boort Ward and Tarnagulla Ward to fill a vacancy on the Loddon Australia Day Committee.

The Loddon Australia Day Committee comprises a community representative from each ward of the Loddon Shire, a Council representative and a Council-appointed administration officer. The position is voluntary.

The committee meets twice each year to, select winners of the Loddon Australia Day Awards and judge entries into the Shire-wide Australia Day competitions.

Applicants will require a passion for their community, demonstrated experience as a volunteer, good communication skills and an interest in Australia Day in the Loddon Shire.

Applicants must reside in either the Boort Ward or the Tarnagulla Ward of the Loddon Shire and have time available in November and December to critically assess nominations and award entries.

We naturally wanted Peter to come back to Boort but there are no vacancies so it isn’t possible.

Please forward expressions of interest to Loddon Australia Day Committee, PO Box 21, Wedderburn, 3518 by 20 August 2021.

Peter is now in Victoria Heights Aged Care 41-47 Victoria St Ironbark. Bendigo.

Ph 54432731. If you have time and are in Bendigo we invite you to call in.

For further information please contact Robina Little, Administration Officer Australia Day on 5494 1200 or australiaday@loddon.vic.gov.au.

Thanking you Travis and Daniel Byrne

Perryman, Margaret We wish to extend our sincere thanks for the many expressions of kindness, condolences, and support we have received on the passing of our much loved Mum, Grandma and Great-Grandma.

This has truly been a comfort to us during this time.

Please accept this as our personal thanks.

Barb, Christine, Andrew and Judy and families.

CAREERS AT LODDON 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.

Community Care Workers – ref.J/102   

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

Community Care Workers – ref. J/105 Permanent, part-time roles – range of hours available  Band 3 - $28.64 per hour  Location – Shire-wide 

Community Care Officer – ref. J/103 Full-time permanent role with a monthly rostered day off  Band 5 - $68,698 to $79,037  Location – Serpentine on commencement, with relocation to Wedderburn as required 

MEETING WEDDERBURN CARE GROUP INC.

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING Tuesday September 14, 2021, 12 Noon at Wedderburn Hotel followed by lunch and general meeting.

All members welcome.

F. Hodges, Secretary

Applications for the positions above will be assessed as they are received.

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.

Loddon HERALD Thursday August 12, 2021 | 11

SPORT BUSINESS, TRADES & SERVICES AROUND THE LINKS

Four under gives Kane a record Selling local properties GREG Fathers is one of the Loddon’s well-known and respected real estate agents.

The industry veteran is part of the Property Plus Real Estate team listing properties for sale across the region.

Property Plus Real Estate has been in business for 11 years and is recognised as one of the leading property sales companiees.

For Greg, his journey in the industry started 25 years ago.

“I started as a stock and station agent working with local farmers and then spread out to also include rural and residential properties,” Greg said.

“I specialise in selling houses, farmlets, lifestyle and business right across

the region. It’s always about bringing buyers and sellers together with both being happy with the transaction” Greg says it is a privilege to sell the client’s largest asset.

“And there have been repeat sales having sold some properties two or three times over my career,” Greg said.

ANDREW Kane has equalled the Charlton course record in taking out the club’s annual tournament.

“I had a good day at Charlton and was very pleased with the way I have been playing recently. It’s a pity these lockdowns keep interrupting my good form,” the Boort champion said of his success just days before Lockdown 6.0.

Kane finished the morning’s 12 holes one under par of 48 and then come home another three under par of 69 in the afternoon’s 18 holes. He won the tournament by eight shots.

“I play in it every year as part of the Kara Kara Golf Association’s tournament schedule which runs through July, August and September,” he said, “I’ve been playing in these tournaments most years since my dad starting taking me to them as an 11-yearold in 1979.”

Kane said he started both sessions at the Charlton tournament on the 13th hole.

“We played 12 holes in the morning and then 18 in the afternoon. I started on the 13th hole both times and bogeyed it both times.

“In the morning I birdied the last two holes to finish one under. In the afternoon I had five birdies and one more bogey to finish three under and tie the course record with ex-local, Dan Hendy, who I played with.

“I usually do well at Charlton because I concentrate harder to

Andrew Kane keep the ball out of the thick trees.

Two years ago, I shot two under in the afternoon. I have had a 66 at Korong Vale many years ago, then another 66 at Wycheproof in 2017 after having had shoulder surgery three months earlier.

“And there I also shot two under at Berriwillock two years ago in the Champion of Champions, and a one under last year at St Arnaud at the same event.”

Kane is playing off his lowest ever handicap of four at Boort and three at other local courses.

New date for centenary

Grant snags 25th

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GRANT Mooney (pictured) has won his 25th Pyramid Hill club championship.

The club veteran is now playing off scratch.

Meanwhile, the club’s annual tournament scheduled for last weekend has been postponed to later this month.

Club official Paul Walters said everything was ready for Friday’s first day of competition when Victoria was again plunged into lockdown.

“Everyone was pretty annoyed but we’re hopeful the tournament can go ahead now from August 27,” he said.

WEDDERBURN Golf Club president Tony Holt this week announced a new date for the club’s centenary tournament.

The 100th event, postponed by Lockdown 5.0, has now been scheduled to start with the women’s four-ball bestball on September 14.

Others events will be contested on the following Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

Korong Vale has cancelled its annual tournament that had been scheduled for later this month.

Laurie’s fine serve FROM just over the border, Woodvale Tennis Club has told the Loddon Herald that for the first time in more than 30 years, Laurie Anderson will not be on the Woodvale Tennis Club committee this season. Laurie declined nomination at the club’s annual general meeting. He was the inaugural treasurer in 1987 and later secretary.

sport

Loddon HERALD

Thursday August 12, 2021

HELLO AGAIN

FINAL ROUND MATCHES ON THIS WEEKEND SPORT is back across the Loddon this weekend still without crowds - following the lifting of regional Lockdown 6.0.

Mandy Male and competitors in the silver division.

Regional titles head north after championship round KARA KARA ladies’ golf championships have seen Donald edge out Boort in the two divisions.

Mandy Male won the silver division by five shots from Boort’s Di Johnston in play over 27 holes at St Arnaud last week.

Final results: Mandy Male 6-42-86 128, Di Johnston 9-4786-133, Heather Hogan (Birchip) 14-46-91-137, Wendy Laffin (Charlton) 10-48-97-145, Sharyn Erwin (St Arnaud) 14-51-94145, Glenda Bird (Wedderburn) 11-50-100-150.

Bronze division: Margot Paynter (Donald) 17-49-101150, Gaye Sim (Boort) 17-

The final scheduled home and away round of football and netball will be played in the Loddon Valley league.

Several clashes will define the finals’ campaign with undefeated Mitiamo playing at home against an injury-depleted Bridgewater.

The reigning premiers have had few outings in the last two months but manage to shake off the cobwebs each time they return from the bye or a lockdown.

The Mean Machine has lacked spark and how they overcome the loss of key players on Saturday will influence their quest for glory in 2021.

Bears Lagoon Serpentine, sitting comfortably in fifth position, could well make a statement in their clash with Pyramid

Hill who were totally outclassed

by Mitiamo a fortnight ago.

The Bulldogs have sadly seen early-season mojo head south in recent clashes.

If season stars including George and Dickens can find spark, a return to the winner’s list is possible.

But without the return of fire, Serp could easily pull off their greatest win of the season.

Inglewood are at home to Maiden Gully and Newbridge hosts the rampaging Marong.

The home teams have battled valiantly all season but final round victories appear a step too far against better skilled opponents.

Meanwhile, Loddon Valley clubs have been informed that the elimination final will be played at Marong, the qualifying final at Serpentine, first semifinal at Mitiamo, second semi at Newbridge, preliminary final at Calivil and the grand final scheduled for September 11 at Maiden Gully.

Double chance in balance

Margot Paynter and club winners in the bronze division.

55-97 -152, Julie McLennan (Wycheproof) 20-51-106-157, Eily Rosewall (Charlton) 2657-110-170, Elizabeth Canfield

(Wedderburn) 25-59-113-172, Maureen Trollop (Birchip) 3568-119-187, Pat Smith (Berriwillock) 29-66-123-189.

WEDDERBURN’S chances of a second chance in the 2021 North Central league football season hinge on Saturday’s clash with Birchip Watchem.

The Redbacks have only dropped one game (Sea Lake Nandaly) and drew with Donald in the opening match.

But when they last met the Bulls back in May, the difference was just four points.

The Bulls are sitting two premiership points behind Wedder-

burn and have the scalp of reigning premiers Sea Lake Nandaly to their credit this season, the only defeat inflicted on the Tigers.

Meanwhile, the Redbacks on Sunday announced Sam Barnes as senior coach for 2022.

Barnes has shared coaching duties with Danny Benaim this season. He has given leadership from the box with Benaim directing on the ground.

Benaim said he would be remaining with the Redbacks.