Loddon Herald 13 June 2024

16,000 TREES PLANTED IN FOUR MONTHS - Page 2

HE HAS seen horses give way to trucks, cars and tractors and the family’s shearing shed the scene of a world record.

Today, Jack Harrison will celebrate his 100th birthday on the family property that has been his home since being born at Pyramid Hill Hospital a century ago.

Festivities started on Tuesday night when he was presented with a Country Fire Authority 80-year medal recognising his service as a volunteer.

One of the oldest CFA members in Victoria, Jack joined the Loddon Vale brigade in 1942, three years before the CFA was established.

The Pyramid Hill Golf Club, where Jack was many times champion, will be the scene of a large celebration with family and friends on Sunday.

On reaching the milestone, Jack said: “I don’t think there’s any secret. It just happens.”

“I’ve never been jealous of what other people had and never wanted anything that was someone else’s.”

Jack’s passions outside sheep and short-horn cattle have been cricket, photography and travelling to major sporting events at the MCG and Olympic Games.

He still pops into the farm shed and checks on CFA members at their shed.

JACK’S FABULOUS CENTURY - PAGE 17

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16,000 new trees in four months

LODDON Plains Landcare Network staff and volunteers are this week wrapping up the planting of 16,000 trees across the region.

The autumn and early winter program has seen trees planted at Calivil, Boort, Durham Ox, Yarrawalla and Auchmore.

More than a dozen volunteers have been part of the program that network facilitator Will Sanson says will compliment and benefit farm productivity and the environment.

Seasonal closures

ROADS and tracks in Kooyoora and Kara Kara parks will be closed from today until November. They are - Kara Kara National Park: Blue Gum Track. Chimney Track, Fisherman Hut Track. Kooyora State Park: Back Road, Old Kingower Road, Aldridge’s Track, Breakneck Road and Cemetery Road.

Retro scam warning

SOME vintage scamming techniques are making a comeback, Bendigo Bank has warned. It says customers should wary of the trend of scammers targeting customers asking recipients to open an attached HTML file to view important changes or to electronically sign a document. “At this time of year, pre-tax time purchases are on the increase and email traffic peaks, so for criminals, the conditions are perfect for phishing,” said head of customer protection Jason Gordon.

Cuts will hurt

“We were fortunate to receive funding through North Central Catchment Management Authority to implement this positive program for our region,” he said.

“Bringing the network and volunteers together planting so many trees in such a short time underscores the value of local community organisations and their commitment to sustainable agriculture.”

STATE Government’s plans to slash 75 per cent of the funding from the Victorian Comprehensive Cancer Centre Alliance will hurt regional and rural patients. Northern Victoria MP Gaelle Broad has urged the government to reverse its planned cuts, saying the fallout from the decision would unfairly impact people living in the regions.

Monica Mendez and Tim Holford out planting trees across the region

Principal says everyone has right to feel safe

We’ll call out ‘slurs’

PARENTS have been warned to expect a phone call if their children make homophobic slurs.

East Loddon P12 College principal Steve Leed said he hoped the sternly-worded message to parents would have a positive impact in maintaining the school’s respectful environment.

It comes as the school last week also supported a student who had been trolled on social media and threatened with claims about an explicit photograph.

“The most disappointing thing happening is that of students deliberately saying things to upset others,” Mr Leed said.

“From junior students asking friends to meet up in particular areas and then making fun of them, to senior students slinging homophobic slurs at peers as they walk past them. Others have gone out of their way to belittle students who have made errors of judgement. It is often the intent of the lan-guage that is being used and not necessarily the actual wording.

“Basically, if a student or anyone else for that matter is setting out to deliberately upset someone, then we are not okay with it ... expect a call if we are made aware of an incident involving your child and a friendly chat at school does not lead to the change that we would like to see.”

Mr Leed said in the school’s newsletter last week that some students “have shown little to no

regard for the feelings of others.

East Loddon students have always been respectful individuals who receive a wonderful level of praise and positive feedback and we have always been very proud of this.

“Unfortunately, there have been a number of incidents of late which have been well and truly ‘un-East Loddon like’ and I am hop-ing that we can collectively ensure that this does not continue. Every student, staff member and college community member has the right to feel safe, full stop!

“Within the past week alone we have had a number of instances that have been disappointing. Students, like all others in the community, make mistakes from time to time, but it is important

that we learn from these and show a definite endeavour to improve.”

Mr Leed, who a week earlier, had told parents that the use of mobile phones was not a requirement for students at school, also issued a warning on the risks of social media in strongly-worded statements to parents last week.

“I was approached by a very brave student this week who wanted to show me something that they had received on their mobile device,” he said.

“We both found the content alarming! This young student had received a simple text message saying ‘Hey’. They replied by asking ‘Who is this?’ and within two further text messages the perpetrator of these messages had en-

Online bullying: there is help

THE eSafety Commissioner says that sometimes it’s hard to know what to do when a person is cyberbullied. But people don’t have to cope with it on their own. It can help to talk with someone else about what’s happened.

The commission’s advise is:

„ Tell someone you trust. Before you do anything, you should tell a trusted adult, teacher or friend who is not involved. Even though it can be hard, talking about it can make a big difference to the outcome. You can get a fresh point of view and work out what to do together.

„ Try to stay connected with your trusted person while you get more information and deal with the situation. You might also ask them to help you follow the steps to report cyberbullying.

„ Contact a counselling and support service if, like lots of people, you feel you don’t have anyone close you can talk to

about cyberbullying – or you want expert help – there are counselling and support services available. Where to find it?

Kids Helpline is Australia’s free, private, and confidential 24/7 phone and online counselling service for young people aged 5 to 25. Counselling is currently offered by phone and webchat Phone 1800 55 1800.

Headspace provides information, support and services to young people, aged 12-25 years, and their families and friends across Australia. Phone (03) 5406 1400.

Further information on cybersafety for children, adults, families, schools and businesses is available at the eSafety Commission website www.esafety.gov.au including resources to learn how to protect personal information and report harmful content on common social media, games, apps and sites..

deavoured to make the student feel incredibly insecure by alleging that they had explicit images of them that they were going to share with their friends and family.

“The perpetrator was making firm demands as to what our young student ’had to do’ in order for the alleged images not to be sent.

“The perpetrator referred to themselves as this students ’master’ and aggressively demanded that the student ’comply’ with their demands. Upon reading the screenshots that this stu- dent had captured, I felt sick at what this child had been exposed to!

“Luckily, this student had told their parent, taken screen shots of the messages, and had not provided any images or payments to the aggressor, as these are the sorts of things that some victims find themselves doing.”

Mr Leed said online abuse happened everywhere and did not discriminate with regards to geographical location, age or the like”.

“Please have a discussion with your children about the potential dangers of social media and encourage them to be open with you,” he told parents.

“Do not be afraid to implement measures around the use of devices and please do not hesitate to speak to me if you would like a chat about this sort of thing,” Mr Leed said.

End of road

MALLEE MP Anne Webster

MP says she is dismayed at the Federal Government’s axing of $47.3 million in funding for harvest trail services and harvest trail information service from July 1. She said the service introduced in 1998 were essential for securing farm labour in north-western Victoria, linking farmers with backpackers and jobseekers during the harvest period.

Follow-up rain

FALLS of up to 8mm were received across the Loddon overnight Monday in followup rain to “the break” on May 31 when official gauages had falls of 15mm and more.

New exhibition

VOLUNTEERS at Wedderburn’s Coach House Gallery are preparing for this week’s opening of a exhibition featuring landscapes and other subjects.

Medal afternoon

LONG service medals will be presented to members of the Newbridge Fire Brigade at a special afternoon tea on June 23.

More roo hits

ANIMAL collisions have jumped 22 per cent, according to data released by an insurance company last week. It said research showed almost half of Australian drivers ignore wildlife warning signs.

Your local CFA Brigade needs you, and there are many ways you can help. Roles include daytime firefighters, community educators, and support roles. You don’t need experience, and you’ll be amazed at what you will achieve, while fulfilling a vital and rewarding role in your community. Scan the QR code to find out how you can help.

East Loddon P12 College principal Steve Leed

Brooke St speed triggers new ‘40’ sign push

MORE signs were needed to remind motorists Inglewood’s Brooke Street was a 40kmh zone, president of the town’s tourism and development committee Peter Moore said this week.

Mr Moore has again called for flashing speed check signs to be installed at either end of the shopping strip.

He also said additional speed limit signs were needed near the pedestrian crossing.

“The only 40kmh signs are at the start and finish of reduced speed signs. Some motorists clearly need to be reminded mid-way along that 50 or 60kmh is not acceptable,” Mr Moore said.

His call follows at least one vehicle being driven in Brooke Street about midday last Saturday at an estimated 90kmh.

Police caught the vehicle - a dark BMW

SUV - on the edge of town, believed to have been clocked at 90kmh in a later 50kmh zone.

Police patrols across the region over the King’s Birthday weekend were part of Operation Regal.

More than 7000 offences were detected with police targeting high-risk driving behaviour across the state over four days in an effort to drive down road trauma.

The number of infringements issued by police increased eight per cent on the same weekend last year, with speeding making up 40 per cent of all offences detected.

Police conducted 107,025 preliminary breath tests, with one in every 541 motorists tested caught drink driving. Another 147 drivers returned a positive roadside drug test, with 2263 tests conducted.

Compliance action lifts with more staff

TWO community compliance officers have been appointed in the last six months to crack down on unsightly properties in Loddon Shire.

Community services manager David Price told councillors at their last meeting that one officer started in December and a second in April while the compliance team leader was still to be appointed.

Mr Price said on-site meetings had been held with owners of most of the 48 properties listed as being unsightly.

Most properties are in Wedderburn where 15 are on the list and nine in Inglewood.

Clean-up work had started in the first quarter of 2024 at 23 properties, Mr Price said.

Peter Walsh MP 496 High Street, Echuca 3564 Tel:

Police stop a BMW on the outskirts of Inglewood on Saturday. LH PHOTO

Long weekend wine a winner

THE Loddon’s award-winning wineries helped fill the aisles at Inglewood IGA with long weekend joy on Friday afternoon.

Locals and visitors sampled top drops from Black Wallaby, Old Kingower and Water Wheel, talking to winemakers about the characteristics of their wines.

IGA liquor manager Daniel Walker said the wine tasting was a way of promoting wineries and introducing customers to local varietals stocked

at the supermarket. “The tastings were also a way of continuing our partnerships in the community.”

Inglewood IGA also supports local groups through its community chest fund.

“There has been a great buzz in the liquor aisle all afternoon. People are curious to sample the wonderful wines produced in the area around Inglewood,” he said. “This is something we hope to be able to do again soon.”

Silver day celebration at college

THE silver jubilee of Wedderburn College will be celebrated with speeches, morning tea and dedication of a new mural this month.

The P12 college was established in 1999 with the merger of the town’s primary and high schools and Korong Vale State School.

Wedderburn State School No. 794 was established in 1865 and the high school in 1961.

College principal Danny Forrest said celebrations on June 28, the final day of term two, would include musical items from students and the opening and dedication of new a Indigenous mural completed last year under the guidance of artist Tobie Cameron.

Mulching the topic

PICKING the right mulch to boost plants and shrubs is the focus of Bridgewater Garden Club members this month. They are this morning meeting at the old railway station for a talk on the benefits of mulching and different varieties by Bianca Rothacker, of Bridgewater Nursery. Club members meet monthly for discussions and excursions to gardens across the region.

Nicole Solomon and Damien Mason enjoy a local drop. LH PHOTOS

Old Kingower’s David Reimers (centre) with Justin Lewis and Lisa Colandro on Friday

Carole Buckingham with Black Wallaby’s Dave Lawson

Water Wheel’s Amy Cumming and IGA’s Daniel Walker

Activists claim protester hurt at Lake Boort

ANTI-DUCK shooting activists have claimed hunters damaged Aboriginal scar trees and protesters were handcuffed on the final weekend of the season at Lake Boort.

Long-time advocate against the duck hunting season Laurie Levy made the claims a day after the 2024 season ended last Wednesday.

Police confirmed they were investigating a report of an assault in Boort on June 2.

Game Management Authority said a person had been fined for illegally cutting down a tree at Lake Boort and it was supporting police investigating the assault claim.

Mr Levy said: “Duck shooters illegally cut down and burnt important heritage scar trees at Lake Boort but on the final weekend angry compliance officers focused on handcuffing two duck rescuers to stop them from helping our native waterbirds.

“And heavy-handed compliance officers forced a 65-yearold female rescuer to the ground, which caused injuries to her arm and leg. She sought help at the Boort medical centre before going to the Kerang police station to lay charges of assault against the GMA officers.”

According to Mr Levy, the season saw 130 compliance officers patrolling wetland compared with 20 in other years.

Mr Levy said: “This army of officers wasn’t to monitor the shooters. It was to put pressure on the volunteer rescue team to protect the interests of the government’s dwindling number of duck shooting clients, who make up only 0.2 per cent of Victoria’s population. Most rescuers were hit with banning notices and slapped with fines of over a thousand dollars each, simply for wanting to help protect Victoria’s sentient native waterbirds.

“Unfortunately, Premier Allan lacks any empathy whatsoever for Australia’s sentient native waterbirds. She is also totally out of step with public opinion and out of step with Labor’s Parliamentary Inquiry that called for duck shooting to be banned.”

Mr Levy claimed the 2024 duck hunting season had been a fizzer, at odds with Boort businesses. Hardware store owner George Tallis last week told the Loddon Herald that the season had given businesses a boost and Loddon Shire’s Boort Ward councillor Neil Beattie earlier told a council meeting the season had been good for Boort.

Bolognese beats the mid-year chills

PIPING hot spaghetti and winter-warming bolognese sauce were the ideal main course when 35 people came into the heated Inglewood Town Hall on Tuesday.

Casting aside coats and umbrellas as the door closed to temperatures barely nudging double digits, they took their place at tables arranged for the monthly Inglewood Community Kitchen.

Get ready to say goodbye to 3G.

Volunteers Deb Coon, Faye Orange, Annette Smith, Ursula Knott and Eddie Sydor had prepared meals ahead of the midday start. They said the monthly lunch helped people connect and share time together.

“Spaghetti bolognese is always a favourite with the group and for dessert we served pavlova,” said Eddie.

Our 3G network will be switched off on 31 August. So if you’re currently using a device that relies on the 3G network, like a phone, watch, medical device, or EFTPOS machine, you’ll need to upgrade as soon as possible to ensure ongoing service. Unsure if your mobile phone will be affected? Just SMS the number 3 to 3498 and we’ll text you back to let you know if you need to take action.

We’re always here to help. If you need more information or any help with the change, drop into your nearest Telstra store, visit: telstra.com/3Gclosure, or call us on 13 22 00.

Eddie Sydor and Annette Smith prepare the meals for Tuesday’s Inglewood Community Kitchen. LH PHOTO

Hair and beauty Mane passion

A HISTORIC corner of Bridgewater is ready to open its doors as home to a luxurious experience in beauty and hairdressing.

Amanda Goodman has seen the town’s former grocery store restored and rejuvenated for her new salon where the emphasis will be on sustainability, authentic products and customer service and being part of the local community.

The opening of Ergo and Mane from July 1 will be the start of a new connection with the Main Street building for Amanda.

“As a youngster, I remember my grandmother pulled up outside in the car while I went in to collect the newspapers,” Amanda said. “Three years ago, I purchased the building with the dream of opening my own salon. Wonderful community support and terrific tradies putting new and contemporary life into the building, it’s wonderful to announce the opening of Ergo & Mane in the heart of Bridgewater.”

Amanda says: “As a local girl who grew up in this beautiful town and a mother of two children who attend the Bridgewater Primary School, I am dedicated to supporting and enriching our community.

“My goal is to contribute to the strength and vitality of the local economy, supporting our town and its wonderful residents. By choosing to support local businesses like ours, you are helping to strengthen the local economy and foster a sense of community pride.”

She says Ergo & Mane is more than just a salon, it’s a sanctuary where Hairdressing meets sustainability. “We exclusively use organic products, ensuring that our clients not only look their best but also feel good about the choices they make.

“Every aspect of our salon, from product selection to waste management, is guided

by our ethos of conscious sustainability and a low-tox approach.”

With 22 years’ experience and an industry leader, Amanda brings a deep passion for hairdressing to Ergo & Mane.

“This salon is a realisation of my dream

to create a space that combines exceptional hairdressing and ecofriendly practices.

Clients walking into Ergo & Mane will immediately notice the beautiful and thoughtfully-designed space. Every detail of the salon has been carefully considered

Amanda Goodman with sons Bert and Freddie check in on tradesmen putting the finishing touches to Bridgewater’s newest business Ergo and Mane opening in a fortnight

and crafted, reflecting the many hours of dedication and hard work behind the scenes. Our goal is to provide a serene and inviting environment that enhances your overall experience.

“The salon boasts a gallery-like feel with a minimalistic and sophisticated colour palette.

“This elegant aesthetic creates a calming ambiance, allowing clients to relax and enjoy their time with us. The harmonious design elements are intended to reflect the balance we strive for in our services,” she said.

Amanda will be joined by other hair specialists at Ergo & Mane, each believing everyone deserves to feel welcome and pampered.

“We are dedicated to providing a warm, inviting atmosphere where every client feels valued. Whether you’re looking for a simple trim or a complete transformation, our skilled team is here to cater to your unique needs with the utmost care and professionalism.

“We are excited to welcome everyone to Ergo & Mane, where the artistry of hairdressing meets a commitment to environmental responsibility. Our team looks forward to building lasting relationships with our clients and contributing positively to the Bridgewater community.”

New Age of winter will warm day

STORIES will be shared around a communal fire pit when Tarnagulla celebrates the winter solstice next week.

Members of Southern Loddon Tourism will put warmth and fun into the shortest day of the year.

One of the organisers, Frances Clarke, said the winter solstice had its origins in the New Stone Age more than 3000 years ago.

She said the solstice celebrations would showcase Loddon food and wine.

“There will be warming roasts from Digger’s Diner, paella and other morsels from Little Sangria, roast potatoes with all of the trimmings from Spuds on the Run, mulled wine from Newbridge Winery and beer from Lake Meran Brewery,” she said.

Solstice activities will also include gypsy tarot readers and music from local group Sunken Moon.

“And we’ll judge the costume competition in between stories at the communal fire pit,” she said.

Retail trader’s workshop series kicks off this month

A SERIES of retail trader workshops and planning sessions to empower Loddon businesses will start in Inglewood before moving around the Loddon Shire.

Council’s manager tourism and economic development David Stretch said the Inglewood workshop would be on June 24.

“We will then deliver these workshops in

coming months in Wedderburn and Boort and other areas across the shire throughout the year,” he said.

“We’re bringing together a core group of Inglewood traders, business owners, and community members to attend an independent, dynamic workshop that aims to explore both opportunities and challenges.”

Mr Stretch said the workshops aimed to help businesses align and collaborate to identify, explore, solve, and plan real solutions.

“Participants will explore how they foster an independent and collaborative outcome that attracts visitation, spending, and awareness of the uniqueness of the Inglewood experience,” Mr Stretch said.

Residents have worthy cause in their sight

MORE than 340 Loddon Shire residents have made a donation to the Fred Hollows Foundation in 12 months.

Their donations in 2023 totalled $84,452 to support the foundation founded in 1992 by eye surgeon Fred Hollows to help treat and prevent blindness and other vision problems in people and communities.

The Victorian figure for last year was $11,004,738 .

The foundation this week released the Loddon Shire donor total as it calls nominations for the 2024 Humanity Award and announced its search for Year 6 students who demonstrate compassion, integrity and kindness towards others to be selected as junior ambassadors in each state.

“The awards help celebrate the humanitarian spirit of everyday Australians, which was something Fred had great faith in,” said foundation director Gabi Hollows.

“These people go out of their way to create a better world, and we would love to see even more people nominated this year.”

Nominations for the awards close next month with details available on the foundation’s website.

Planning a night of community warmth are Ken Arnold, Frances Clarke, Norma Sokolowski and Michele Mizzi. LH PHOTO

Corella action calls grow

BRIDGEWATER residents are lifting efforts for State Government action to curb plaque-proportion corellas damaging trees on the Loddon River.

They last month re-ignited a push to cut the riverbank menace that sees thousands of long-billed corellas gnawing and stripping trees either side of the Calder Highway bridge.

Residents have been in contact with members of Parliament asking for meetings.

Kelly Smith has told the Loddon Herald: “The corellas are simply out of control. How is it possible that it’s been allowed to get to this point?

“Complete lack of leadership and decision making by a bunch of incompetents whose ‘strategy’ has been an epic fail!

“Get out from behind your desks and throw-away words and go and have a look at the real-

ity of what’s actually going on at Bridgewater,” she said.

Kelly has described damage to the trees as heartbreaking.

Catherine Dowden Gunston has told the Loddon Herald corellas are killing the trees.

Ann Irving said there was a definite need to cull the corellas.

Members of Bridgewater on Loddon Development last month called for a new State Government fund to be used in reducing corella numbers around the town.

Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action has been asked what plans or programs it has to address the corella issues on the Loddon River at Bridgewater and whether any assessments been made of tree health on the river bank.

A response had not been received when the Loddon Herald went to press this week.

Blokes! It’s time to check on your health

AMBULANCE Victoria has called on men to look out for their physical and mental health by scheduling a health check-up this International Men’s Health Week.

According to the Australian Men’s Health Forum, 50 men die each day in Australia from preventable causes.

Ambulance Victoria’s executive director operational commu-

nications Anthony Carlyon said Men’s Health Week was about educating men on how to protect and improve their health and wellbeing.

“Too many Australian men are dying too young, and this week is about raising awareness of the full range of physical, mental and emotional conditions men can suffer from,” he said.

“This Men’s Health Week, we call on all men to book in for a health check, to make a plan for action to improve their health and wellbeing, and to tell their mates to do the same,” Mr Carlyon said.

International Men’s Health Week is celebrating its 30th anniversary this year and runs until Sunday.

Community projects update

Pyramid Hill Community Centre – Work continues on Stage 1 of the redevelopment of the Pyramid Hill Community Centre by the contractor, Searle Brothers. Stage 1 includes an allied health wing to accommodate Northern District Community Health and Maternal Child Health services, senior citizens room and upgraded toilet facilities.

This stage will also see the renovation of the current hall and kitchen, expansion of storage, and improved car parking and access to the building.

Funding for Stage 1 has been made possible with the support of the Victorian Government’s Regional Infrastructure Fund. Council has also provided funding towards the project.

Council is currently waiting on the outcome of its application to the Commonwealth Government’s Growing Regions Program to deliver the nal stage of the community centre.

This stage will include construction of a community wing to accommodate the neighbourhood house, library services, a community gym, and further parking.

Recreation, Open Space and Aquatic Strategy (ROSA) – Preparations for the

Campers keep Loddon towns busy

CAMPGROUNDS were full over the King’s Birthday long weekend as hundreds of visitors flocked to Loddon communities.

Caravan parks were also at capacity for the last extended break until September.

Inglewood businesses reported strong trade over the

Loddon ROSA are continuing. This includes the completion of a comprehensive community engagement process involving surveying and interviewing land managers, community, schools, as well as sport and recreation groups.

The ROSA – Engagement Findings Report, which has been prepared by Otium Planning Group, will inform the nal draft ROSA.

This nal draft will then be considered by Council for further public exhibition and community feedback.

Little Lake Boort Recreation Precinct –Council was pleased to receive feedback from the community to the draft master plan for the Little Lake Boort Recreation Precinct during March and April.

This feedback is being collated and incorporated into the nal master plan, which will then be considered by council for adoption.

The master plan has been designed to reconnect and activate the various parklands around the Northern section of Little Lake

long weekend as did Bridgewater, the two towns popular with tourists passing through the region.

Boort’s Yung Balug Aboriginal Artefacts museum reported a steady stream of visitors from across Australia.

Traders said good June weather helped with visitation.

that incorporates

and the surrounding area.

Inglewood Sports Centre Master Plan –Council is continuing to develop a master plan for the Inglewood Community Sports Centre.

Following initial community input, further community consultation is currently underway.

The nal draft master plan will then be considered by Council for further public exhibition and feedback.

The master plan will identify and clarify opportunities, challenges and limitations at the centre, as well as provide direction to Council and user groups for its future development over the next 10 years.

It will focus on the sport and recreation reserve, including the main complex, oval, lawn and hard courts, cricket nets and the adjacent Riding Club, and Inglewood Cars and Bikes Club.

Boort

Nolen’s park, Boort Tennis Club, Boort Bowls Club, Historic Park, Croquet Club, swimming pool

Inglewood Primary School parents kept locals and visitors nourished with a sausage sizzle in Brooke Street on Saturday morning raising funds to buy new books for the school library. LH PHOTO

Minister’s puff of smoke visit

AN ENTOURAGE of Government and Aboriginal leaders have used Lake Boort as the backdrop for a $5 million announcement.

Minister for Treaty and First Peoples Natalie Hutchins was among the group in town last Wednesday but the announcement did not involve local representatives.

Loddon Shire Council has confirmed it was not invited to the mid-morning event. Paul Haw of Yung Balug Aboriginal Artefacts Museum on the banks of Lake Boort also failed to make the guest list.

Dja Dja Wurrung Clans Aboriginal Corporation, Victorian Aboriginal Heritage Council and representatives from the Department of Premier and Cabinet did.

A Government spokesperson said Ms Hutchins attended “the smoking ceremony and chat with DJAARA was at 10.30am.”

Ms Hutchins said $5 million in funding would support traditional owners in initiatives to protect and manage Aboriginal cultural heritage across the state.

“This might include protection of significant Aboriginal cultural landscapes, or sacred and archaeological places,” the Government said in a statement after the group had left Boort.

“Aboriginal cultural heritage is a vital part of Victoria’s history and identity, and the Labor Government is ensuring its protection for all Victorians.

“Lake Boort is one of the many culturally important places protected by Victoria’s Aboriginal cultural heritage system. Home to a significant collection of

scarred trees, as well as occupation mounds, stone artefact scatters, and Aboriginal ancestral remains, the area highlights the deep relationship traditional owners hold with the landscape.”

Ms Hutchins said: ““We are proud to support traditional owners to undertake this incredibly important work to preserve and celebrate culturally significant and remarkable places, like Lake Boort. The Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Fund will ensure traditional owners are empowered to manage and protect this cultural heritage for all Victorians.

“Many Victorians may not be aware of the wealth of significant Aboriginal cultural heritage in their local areas. Whether that’s rock art that is thousands of years

old, or fish traps and scar trees like those found at Lake Boort. We encourage all Victorians to learn more about Aboriginal cultural heritage in their region.”

Loddon Shire, Parks Victoria and Aboriginal groups were part of developing a Lake Boort scarred tree masterplan for Lake Boort to “balance visitor access with protection of cultural and environmental values”.

The landscape industry-award winning plan said Lake Boort currently had no designated visitor access or amenity which means visitors were “free to access all areas of the site without understanding the site’s cultural and environmental values and their need of protection”.

“The Lake Boort scarred trees

project will be one of the first tourism initiatives in Victoria to develop a distinctly Indigenous experience by creating a platform to share, appreciate and protect this highly significant landscape,” the report said.

With more than 400 scarred trees, the project has been tipped to boost the local annual economy by 18 million

Inquiries by the Loddon Herald to Victorian Aboriginal Heritage Council about how the $5 million will be spent and whether any funds will be used at Lake Boort had been unanswered.

Its chairperson Russell Mullett said in the Government statement: “The Victorian Aboriginal Heritage Council looks forward to working with Traditional Owners, as custodians and managers of their cultural heritage, to decide on how we best use this fund to protect cultural heritage for future generations.”

Dja Dja Wurrung Group chief executive officer Rodney Carter said: “At a time when processes to protect cultural heritage are under pressure and facing challenges, this is a welcome step, which will enable traditional owner corporations to determine how cultural heritage is protected.”

According to an online post by Ms Hutchins, the member for the Melbourne seat of Sydenham: “In coming months traditional owners can apply to the council to access the fund. The fund will deliver projects chosen by traditional owners that enhance the protection of places like Lake Boort for now and future generations.”

Badhabits marvisits ofministers COMMENT

WHAT is it with State Government ministers coming into Loddon communities?

If locals are lucky, the first they will know of a dignitary on the patch is seeing a flash car heading out of town.

For the third time in two years that is what happened in Boort last week. Mary-Anne Thomas set the “gold standard” with not one but two visits for internal photo-ops on worker accommodation projects.

Throw in last year’s Calivil dairy stop by Agricultural Minister Gayle Tierney and now Natalie Hutchins in Boort last week and you really wonder what game is being played.

It’s discourteous and perpetrating bad habits to have ministers coming into the area and not involving local communities, that is, engaging with the local people for growth in an MP’s understanding of what’s happening outside of Melbourne. Worse still, not even telling the next level of government - the local council - of the visit. When a minister comes to down, that’s a big thing. It’s local news deserving greater in-depth coverage than a media release issued after the event.

Whatever the reason for the exclusion of local presence at Ms Hutchins’ visit, the Government’s style is at odds with country values on this occasion.

Men's Health Week 2024: Empowering Good Health Heroes at IDHS

Graham Morse, a retired farmer, was advised by his doctor to start strength training at the Inglewood and Districts Health Service (IDHS) after noticing a decline in his fitness post-retirement. Unlike the physical activity of daily farming, his new lifestyle lacked the same level of exercise. Open to maintaining his health, Graham joined IDHS and found the experience rewarding.

"The instructors at IDHS are all wonderful," Graham said, highlighting their pivotal role in his fitness journey. Transitioning was smooth and enjoyable thanks to their guidance and the supportive environment.

Having used both the old surgery-based gym and the new state-of-the-art facility, he expressed his appreciation for the upgrade: "We are so very lucky to have a gym like this in Inglewood; it is fantastic with so much more room."

Graham particularly enjoys the high-intensity rope exercises, which have become a key part of his routine. Attending the IDHS Gym twice a week and walking, has helped him maintain his physical fitness, crucial for preserving muscle mass and overall strength as he ages.

Graham also emphasised the mental health benefits: "I find attending the gym great for my mental health as much as physical health, and I feel better for it." The gym's structured exercise and social interaction gave him a sense of purpose and well-being in retirement.

Graham Morse's journey underscores the importance of staying active and engaged post-retirement. With his doctor's support and the excellent facilities at IDHS, he has become a true "Good Health Hero," inspiring others to prioritise their health and fitness.

Article provided with Graham’s explicit consent.

- CHRIS EARL

Natalie Hutchins

Shire faces $35m short fall

ROADS across the Loddon Shire will deteriorate over the next decade without better funding for local government.

The shire has told a Federal Parliament inquiry that it faces a $35 million gap between available cash and asset renewal needs.

Mayor Gavan Holt said: “Council is critically reliant upon financial assistance grants to remain sustainable, with these grants making up around one-third of council’s budget.

“When introduced in 1974, these grants were the equivalent of one per cent of federal taxation; however, in recent decades this amount has been reduced to just below 0.5 per cent.”

Assistance grants to Loddon Shire this financial have been $10.5 million.

Cr Holt has written to the inquiry on local government sustainability saying: “If these grants were no longer available, significant service reductions and our investment in roads and other assets would decline significantly, making it challenging to maintain our staffing headcount.”

Loddon’s road network is more than 4700km.

“Local roads grant allocations are based on road lengths, traffic volumes and local characteristics (climate, freight and sub-grades). Loddon’s $4.5 million grant is 16.9 per cent of its relative need,” said Cr Holt.

“State Government funding is typically provided for once-off programs and projects. These funding streams are highly subject to annual change meaning it is difficult to plan for the long

term. Examples include capital grants for sporting infrastructure. Operational grants are also provided for services such as libraries.

“However, these once dollar for dollar funded services have generally shifted with Councils meeting the majority of costs.

“Reduced federal funding, cost shifting from other levels of government, increased expectations upon council and inflation outpacing income growth all lead to a challenging financial outlook for local government.

“If the current funding model is not changed, local governments across Victoria will be forced to reduce services and infrastructure further.”

Loddon Shire has told the inquiry it wants financial assis-

tance grants back to one per cent of federal taxation., financial assistance grants and national principles for allocation and development of a nationally consistent local government cost index to assist in setting a fair and equitable rate cap.

“Council currently provides core services essential to our community. While there is a community desire for Council to grow and expand our service footprint, financial constraints limit our capacity to do so, due to the limited revenue and cost of services across a large, dispersed area.

“Further limiting council’s financial capacity to expand services is the impact of severe weather events. There is a fair expectation that council builds

back better after natural disasters. After recent flood events, council has invested significantly in building climate resilient infrastructure to reduce cost and impact of future events. This growing asset has impacted on the volume of council’s asset renewal program, with individual projects being of a higher upfront financial value.

“Due to financial imbalance, there is a growing divide between rural and metropolitan council service offerings. Rural councils face growing community expectations regarding the services they offer, focusing on traditional core services and asset renewal while metropolitan councils provide a wider range of services and address growth pressures.”

Cr Holt said staff recruitment and retention was a further challenge to sustainability of local councils.

“Council is currently facing significant challenges in attracting and retaining a skilled workforce, particularly in key professions such as engineers, building surveyors and environmental health officers. The proportion of local governments expecting shortages in these occupational areas has increased from ... to 37 to 53 per cent in 2022.

“The most common factors contributing to these shortages include a lack of suitably skilled candidates, an inability to compete with the private sector and other local governments remuneration and locational disadvantages,” Cr Holt said in council’s submission to the inquiry.

Hardy decisions looms. says council lobby

RURAL communities faced hard decisions about whether to close swimming pools, shutter libraries, curb the use of sports facilities, abandon playgrounds, and severely cut or close aged care and childcare, the federal inquiry has been told.

Rural Councils Victoria said many small rural councils were on the financial brink and rural communities face losing essential community services and the only leisure facilities some communities have.

“We are at a point where we have to make some hard decisions,” chair Mary-Ann Brown said.

“Councils only have two reliable sources of income, rates – which are capped – and grants, which have been declining in real terms for years.

“Small rural communities are resilient and self-reliant but rural councils are being hit from many directions all at once. In recent years there have been successive natural disasters, a cost of living crisis, community expectations have changed and the system for financing councils and council services has not kept up.

“Put simply, councils need more resources, and we need federal and state governments to help us keep up with inflation. The best and easiest thing that the Federal Government could do for the sustainability of local government and small rural communities across Australia would be to increase the amount of the financial assistance grants.”

Gavan Holt

Bridge damage ‘before floods’

THE State Government refused funds to repair the Chamberlains Road bridge after assessors decided most damage was before the October 2022 floods.

Residents near the bridge, between Inglewood and Bridgewater, saw access from the Calder Highway suddenly closed a fortnight ago.

They have since erected protect signs on the damaged crossing.

A Loddon Shire Council spokesperson said Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangement assessors rejected council’s application for money and decided “as their position is that the majority of the damage to the bridge was pre-ex-

isting due to age. It is estimated repairs will cost $120,000.

“Council is now considering the option to self-fund the replacement of the Chamberlains Road bridge through council’s annual infrastructure program to be presented at the June council meeting,” the spokesperson said.

“Additionally, Council will consider making an extra funding contribution to upgrade the bridge as part of the works.

“The proposed upgrades include installing box culverts to replace the existing pipes to improve flow in the drain, widening the road to improve access for heavy vehicles and trucks, and installing additional road safety

barriers to improve safety. A design has been completed for this project which will allow the project to begin early in the 20242025 financial year.”

Loddon Shire gained approval for the immediate reconstruction works period that followed the October 2022 flood event with 12 packages totalling $3,897,236 given the tick.

“Most of the value of these works has been claimed through the DRFA process with only $3149 of claims rejected,” the spokesperson said.

“All 34 remaining packages of work for the October 2022 flood event have been submitted through the DRFA’s Reconstruc-

Council orders removal of advertising

MERCHANDISE advertising on verandah posts at Inglewood IGA was removed Tuesday after council told owners signs would need to be assessed as permanent advertising signage in a heritage area. However, the store was told that council “do not support advertising signage in this manner and it is most unlikely that

any permit for these would be issued”. The signage had been erected last week.

Inglewood traders have called for initiatives to indicate Brooke Street shops were “open for business” after council last year enforced consistent compliance on footpath display of signs and goods across the shire.

tion of Essential Public Assets submission process. Two packages of this work have been assessed to date which resulted in approvals for $331,000 of works.”

The council is also at odds with accessors of the standard of road surface resheeting.

“The approval of further gravel resheet packages of work has been delayed as council continues to negotiate with the DRFA to resolve the difference in preferred treatment on Council’s gravel road network. Council’s proposed treatment of a 100mm resheet is considered excessive by the DRFA. However, this is council’s standard resheet treatment,”

The Loddon Herald understands that assessors are wanting to provide funds for a 75mm resheet.

The State Government was contacted for an update on when the outstanding recovery work packets from October 2022 floods would be processed and why it backed a lesser standard resheet.

The Government was asked why roads should be repaired to a lesser standard than before the October 2022 floods and why 100mm was considered excessive.

A response had not been received when this week’s edition went to press.

The Loddon’s oldest resident Ivan Vanderwall celebrated his 102nd birthday at the Victoria Hotel Pyramid Hill last weekend. Ivan came to Australia in 1957 from the Netherlands and to Pyramid Hill in 1980. Ivan remains independent with support from friends in the town and district nurses.

Rebecca Hughes, Sandra Standfield, Olivia Lockhart and Karen Holt. LH PHOTOS

Former Loddon Shire councillor Geoff Curnow with Cr Neil Beattie (above) and Robert and Colleen Condliffe and Frank Maher (below)

Farmers look for drops

FARMERS are looking for more “good drenches” across the Loddon to boost their cereal crops.

“We’ve had enough to get things going but we’re looking for that next rain,” said Bridgewater’s Corey Bowen.

Corey, Adam Turnbull and Thomas Johns were sharing hopes for season when more than 30 farmers attended a briefing breakfast in Bridgewater yesterday morning.

They heard Agriculture Victoria agronomist Dale Grey give a seasonal weather forecast, the first of three briefings organised by Loddon Shire. A second session was held in Boort yesterday lunchtime with the third in Pyramid Hill next Wednesday.

Adam said many farmers in the southern Loddon had this year switched land from canola crops to wheat as part of their rotation management.

The three local farmers said margins had also reduced for canola in recent seasons.

Corey said: “We need good top ups during winter after the early year rains that put plenty into the ground but we need some now on top ... a good two inches.”

While crops have been sown, Adam said his focus this month was applying fertiliser to maximise growth and returns.

Loddon Mayor Gavan Holt told the briefing that agriculture represented 70 per cent of the shire’s economic output.

The Australian wool market has recorded an overall increase last week, for the second consecutive selling series. Fremantle had a non-sale week in this series, and the national offering dropped sharply as a result. There were originally 28,010 bales on offer, but after 4.0% was withdrawn prior to sale, there was just 26,897 bales remaining available to the trade. This was easily the smallest sale of the 2023/24 selling season and the smallest sale since September 2020. This small offering attracted strong buyer interest from the outset. Once again, the strongest demand was in higher yielding wool, particularly lots possessing favourable additional measurement results, but due to the limited selection, all wool regardless of specifications generally sold at levels higher than in the previous series. By the end of the week, in the merino fleece the individual Micron Price Guides (MPGs) had risen by between 1 and 37 cents. The crossbred sector also had a solid week with all MPGs closing at higher levels. For the second week in a row the 26.0-micron MPG in the South was the strongest performer, adding a further 26 cents to the 22 cents added last week, meaning a 48-cent two-week increase, a rise of 9.3%. The skirtings tracked a similar path to the fleece and the oddments also closed higher. The AWEX Eastern Market Indicator (EMI) added 15 cents for the series, closing at 1,152 cents. The EMI has now risen for four consecutive selling days and has not posted a negative result in five. The EMI has added 22 cents across this run, an improvement of 1.9%. Fremantle returns to the selling program this week, bolstering the national offering. There are currently 33,814 bales expected be offered in Sydney, Melbourne and Fremantle. Sales were held on Wednesday and Thursday to accommodate a Public Holiday Monday in the Eastern centres.

Source: AWEX

Branch

AGRICULTURE Victoria will hold an irrigation workshops at Kerang this month.

The workshop is specifically for farmers involved with designing and installing new centre pivot or lateral move (CPLM) systems or aiming to optimise the performance and management of an existing system.

Irrigation extension officer

Nick O’Halloran said the workshop would cover design considerations to improve efficiency, financial decisions for purchasing and operating a CPLM, critical performance indicators, and much more.

“These free workshops offer invaluable insights and practical strategies and will be facilitated by Peter Smith from Sapphire Irrigation Consulting,” Mr O’Halloran said.

‘Peter has a sound background in irrigation systems and management and delivers training courses nationally. He is strongly committed to building skills for a resilient irrigation sector.’

Talk pivots on water efficiency Safety project funded

VICTORIAN Farmers Federation’s Making our Farms Safer project will continue next year after receiving a $600,000 grant from the State Government. Vice-President Danyel Cucinotta welcomed the extension of the project, which launched four years ago.

WOOL REPORT AUCTION

Sharp On site

As original is this 1880’s Miners Cottage renovate or detonate, on 966m2 allotment and only 550m from the main street. Offering all the lovely township of St Arnaud has to offer from shopping to professional services.

With 4 main rooms and set deep on the block with rear access available from a back laneway this cottage is a on bedroom, living room with solid – fuel heating – open fireplace, Kitchen/Dining area, bathroom with shower and vanity and separate sewered toilet.

Single carport and 2 sundry pre 1900’s sheds in need of repair.

An excellent opportunity to acquire a sizable allotment of land just 550m from the bustling main street.

Genuine seller

Further Particulars/ Inspections:

James Nevins 0407 302 900

Email: inglewood@fpnevins.com.au

Thomas Johns, Adam Turnbull and Corey Bowen at yesterday morning’s breakfast briefing from Agriculture Victoria agronomist Dale Grey (right). The briefing was the first of three across the shire. LH PHOTO

A weekend of birthday buzz

By Cr WENDY MURPHY

ON THE King’s Birthday long weekend, I did a bit of driving and it was good to see what was happening in Loddon.

People, people everywhere enjoying what Loddon has to offer without camouflage clothing or gun dogs required.

With no Loddon Valley football, my son filled in for Wedderburn under 17s on Saturday which meant a trip up to Nullawil. On the way home we stopped in at Skinner’s Flat Reservoir to have a look. There were quite a few campers taking in the quiet setting with people walking the streets of Wedderburn as we drove through.

Prospectors were trying their luck around the bush of Inglewood. The gold is still out there, with a half gram speck being found by my husband, (earning his keep). Even if going home empty handed, there’s still the historic sites and plants and animals to observe. There were plenty of visitors in Inglewood topping up on groceries or grabbing a bite to eat while wandering the streets.

Bridgewater was buzzing with barely a parking spot along the main street or side streets. Tak-

lEttER tO tHE EDItOR

Government mediocrity

lOCAl PERSPECtIVE

ing the opportunity to take my dogs for a walk along the river, the chorus of corellas was continuous and the damage to trees very evident. Listening to a bird expert on the radio on Thursday, he suggested the birds are probably finding the conditions favourable and hanging around but they will move on.

Being very clever and quick learners, they are inquisitive and do get into all sorts of things. Although being in high numbers at Bridgewater they haven’t been causing the destruction at the Kingower Cricket Ground like they do during summer.

The campground at the Newbridge Recreation Reserve was popular with many caravans and campervans set up. The store was also a popular place for people to be with parking spots scarce.

Kooyoora State Park was crawling with visitors. The camp ground was full. Some campers were beginning to pack up, whilst others seemed in no hurry to move on. The bottom picnic area had families preparing to walk one of the many tracks and a family was just returning to the top car park after visiting the

Sir, As a long time supporter and adherent to the principals of fairness, equity and democracy I am absolutely dismayed at the appalling way that Australia is now progressing.

We have federal, state and local governments so far out of control that an entire generation of Australians generally are being offered a miserable future in an economy that is going to provide certainty to few of the current under 30s, the elderly who never had benefits of compulsory superannuation and those, such as single parents and recently single women of almost any age who seek refuge from a violent relationship and other disadvantaged groups.

Our supportive government systems have been so depleted and trimmed as to being little more than survival mechanisms and a cacophony of voices across the political spectrum which have offered little and delivered less.

I have been a Labor supporter for most of my life having started work in a sawmill at 15 and I’ve seen government change from halcyon years to abject mediocrity due to overspending and poorly designed and executed public builds and services.

Medicare is a shameful example of deterioration of a service introduced in response to older and less affluent Australians needs by the Whitlam government, only to be tinkered with and changed to the detriment of the needy by successive governments with varied agendas .

The NDIS is starting to decay and the tax evasion and avoidance industry flourishes.

Overall, our once vibrant economy is now in

‘caves’. A drive out to Jarklin saw plenty of large farm machinery moving around and sheep being brought in as lamb marking begins. Always something to be doing on the farm to keep people fed and clothed.

Speaking with a few business owners over the past month or so, most are doing okay, with trade mostly steady but not over busy. Accommodation providers are rarely empty, but some are saying they aren’t seeing too many visitors coming to stay longer than a day or two, mostly just passing through on their way to somewhere else, although long weekends are popular. Others have accommodation booked out by railway workers and other contractors. Food suppliers are seeing people still spending money on takeaway and eat-in food and drink options.

Council has produced several short videos of things to see and do in Loddon under the banner of Visit Loddon Valley. Who knows, some visitors may decide to become residents and join our welcoming community of communities.

*WendyMurphyisthe InglewoodWardcouncillor

what may well be terminal decline as our national and state debt soars to the detriment of the many in order to serve the few.

Perhaps the socialists and idealists who once exercised control over at least the Labor Party have become so fat and comfortable, entrenched in their landlord’s attire that they have forgotten from whence they themselves came.

The economy is clearly within the bailiwick of the federal treasury and minister but it is very poorly managed , particularly if one is in the lower portion of the economic spittoon.

There was much trumpeting and fanfare when the aged pension for couples rose by over $700 annually very recently but, in one fell swoop, that was taken away in simply the rise in home and contents insurance premiums.

Add in the family car and a bit of funeral insurance and “hey presto”, Nanna and Pa are already worse off.

Power bills continue to go up and my $275 cheque to lower my power costs has never arrived.

We seem to need an entire new crop of politicians at all levels and in order to maintain the democracy that we enjoy that will require some radical thinkers be elected with a sincere attitude to bettering the lot of their constituents.

It’s hard to imagine that many of our politicians are actually happy people as their tendency to work toward the happiness of others seems to be an uncommon commodity and attitude.

StephenColbert Wedderburn

20 QUESTION QUIZ

1. What is the lowest point on planet Earth?

2. What was Pixar’s first feature-length movie, released in 1995?

3. Which scientist came up with the theory of relativity?

4. Sushi is traditionally wrapped in what?

5. How many teeth does an adult human have?

6. Who painted “Starry Night”?

7. Name the three primary colours.

8. How many strings does a standard guitar have?

9. A group of whales is commonly called a what?

10. What do you call a word that spells the same backwards as it does forwards?

11. Who played The Joker in 1960’s TV series ‘Batman’?

12. Christine Daaé is the main character of which famous musical?

13. What is the main ingredient in chocolate?

14. Who is the most decorated Olympian of all time?

15. What is the name of the man who is in the KFC logo?

16. Did the Berlin Wall separate East and West, or North and South Berlin?

17. Arachnophobia is the fear of what?

18. A sonnet is a form of poetry containing how many lines?

19. The ‘Great Red Spot’ is a 16,350km wide storm system on which planet in our solar system?

20. In which year did the Chernobyl nuclear disaster take place?

ANSWERS

YOU can’t keep a good man down! Or for that matter, away from duties dispensing rehydrating liquids to thirsty footballers after a hard session on the track. Spotted the great RA in action at Wedderburn on Thursday night when he was still able to open the stubbies for players despite heavily bandaged hands after recent surgery.

O TF had a road trip to Donald on Saturdaythe closest match of football (in distance and result). Had been looking to sample the footy ground pies but they had sold out before the main game!

W E INQUIRED about the savs - were they butcher’s or supermarket variety. “They’re red,” came the reply.

I N BRITAIN, at the round ball football they have express bars serving bottled beers, soft drinks and confectionery and authentic Bavarian hog-skin hot dogs, served with cooked onions, mustard seeds and fresh chives.

S OFI Stadium, Inglewood (that’s Californ-i in the US of A), was the host of America’s Superbowl final a couple of years ago, there’s a huge range of food for fans - Cheeseburger, Pastrami Cheeseburger, Jalapeño Cheddar Sausage, Beyond Sausage, Hot Dog, Chili Cheese Dog, Pastrami Dog, French Fries, Cheese Fries, Chili Cheese Fries, Pastrami Cheese Fries, Chocolate Chip Cookie, Cake Brownie and Assorted Candy.

W ITH Wimbledon tennis starting in a fortnight, strawberry fields are starting to look bare with punnets being filled. The combination of strawberries and cream has become an iconic Wimbledon delicacy. The strawberries are traditionally served with a dollop of fresh cream, creating a delightful contrast between the tartness of the fruit and the smoothness of the cream

Mariana Trench (11,034km)

Story

Albert Einstein

Thirty-two

Vincent van Gogh

Yellow, Red, Blue

Fourteen

BUSHY tAlES BY IAN jONES

100 years of stories and sayings of Jack Harrison, known to family as Uncle Johnnie

Two shakes of lamb’s tail

JACK Harrison was 14 when he finished school to ride a horse from one end of the family’s Hopefield property to the other checking sheep.

School for Jack had been Loddon Vale State School, 5km north on the property, and a few months of studying by correspondence.

A century after being born at the Pyramid Hill Hospital, Jack is still very much at home on Hopefield, near Durham Ox.

He has stories, tales, yarns and sayings of a life lived breeding sheep and cattle, indulging in his passion for sport and introducing family to his interests.

Never married, Jack was the eldest in the family of four boys and a girl. Nieces and nephews and the community have shared in Jack’s passions and generosity.

Ahead of his 100th birthday today, nephew Chris Harrison recalled: “When anyone was visiting his mother Nan, he’d ask who wanted to come round on the water checks.

“He made it sound so exciting, we’d all pile into the back of the International Scout which started out without a padded seat and ended up with a bare metal bench having been destroyed by the many kelpie dogs who always accompanied him on these trips.

“It was a battle to get in the back between the children and the dogs. The dogs always won. And when we’d get bored and ask when we’d go back, Uncle Johnnie would say ‘in two shakes of a lamb’s tail’.”

The arrival of cars, trucks and tractors, says Jack, was the biggest change he has seen in 100 years, taking over the the horses he had ridden as a teenager.

There was also the arrival of electricity in the mid-1950s. Jack, an avid photographer, also kept pace with technology and purchased his first digital camera a decade ago.

Jack’s reputation as a farmer continued a family tradition. As breeders of short-horn cattle, Hopefield enjoyed success at Sydney’s Royal Show; as sheep breeders Jack was part of the family that picked up ribbons at the Australian Sheep and Wool Show.

He points to the wall of his dining room - certificates showing Hopefield had the highest price

By CHRIS EARL

fleeces through Dalgety for five successive years.

Beside the show ribbons, there’s photographs of Jack indulging in his passion for golf.

A life member of the Pyramid Hill club and many times champion, golf was but one sporting pursuit over his long life.

He played cricket when Loddon Vale had its own side and then later with Macorna, once taking five wickets in a day.

Chris says that Jack was a member of the Melbourne Cricket Club for more than 70 years.

“Every year he would gather up his brother’s ladies’ tickets and taken four of his nieces and nephews to the Boxing Day test or the VFL grand final,” he said.

“They’d spend three days at the cricket until Uncle Johnnie decided that he didn’t think he could drive to Melbourne any more. Not a problem was the answer, they drove instead and the tradition continued for another 10 years.”

Jack said his love of sport and photography had taken him to Olympic Games in Mexico City and Munich and to Commonwealth Games.

He has special memories of meeting at many games Australian sprint superstar of the 1970s Raelene Boyle.

World travel was just one avenue of discovery. He still maintains a collection of several hundred volumes of National Geographic, sitting beside almost as many vinyl LP records.

Recognised as one of the oldest CFA members, Jack was this week awarded an 80-year medal ahead of his 100th birthday.

The London Vale Fire Brigade pre-dates formation of the CFA by 18 years and Jack is recorded to have joined in 1942.

The original fire station was built in 1976 the land that was donated to the CFA, by the Harrisons and electricity and water from for the shed came from the Hopefield farm. The current fire station is still in this same location next door to Jack’s house.

Jack frequently still engages with brigade members, often stepping out for a friendly chat when they’re at the `station.

“All the Harrisons have been

involved in the CFA,” said Chris. “There were the Sunday morning radio checks, practice for the annual CFA competitions involving climbing a rope and squirting a target and fighting fires.

“The CFA is just the culture of the family, passed down the generation of Harrisons who are still very much active member of the brigade.

Across from the fire station is the Hopefield shearing shed. He was there on an October 1957 day when Kevin Sarre was priming himself for a tilt at the world record and recalls the cheer that

went up in the shed when 326 large crossbred lambs - ewes and wethers - had their fleeces removed in under eight hours.

Jack lapped up the recollection of memories when a member of Sarre’s team, Alf Parsons, returned two years ago to look over Hopefield’s shearing records for that historic day.

After a century of life at Hopefield, Jack still scoots around the farm on his stroller.

His days start with a bowl of Corn Flakes and a jar of apricot jam is never far away.

“We used to live on mutton but

I do like a steak,” he said. A good cup of tea is another family tradition that Jack continues.

Jack said: “We don’t have the cattle any more - they are sadly gone - but there are still the sheep and we have grown some nice crops.”

He remembers when crop yields were stacked in bushel bags three high and is regarded as one of the Loddon’s biggest irrigators over the years.

And on turning 100, he said: “It’s just happened, getting on with family and neighbours and helping when people need help.”

golfer,

photographer,

volunteer fireman (second left) and Uncle Johnnie man with nephew Chris

Jack Harrison with a certificate awarded when the family farm topped the fleece prices. LH PHOTO

p UB lic NOT ic Es

Member vacancies - Victorian Class B cemetery trusts

Are you interested in making a meaningful contribution to your community, learning new skills and preserving local history for future generations?

The following Class B cemetery trusts are seeking new volunteer trust members. In this role you will gain hands-on experience in managing a public cemetery and valuable governance skills as a member of a public board. Free governance training is provided.

THE TERRAPEE CEMETERY TRUST

THE WEDDERBURN CEMETERY TRUST

THE WYCHITELLA CEMETERY TRUST

Who should apply?

Applications are welcome from people with a range of skills and experiences including administration, committees, and groundskeeping. Women and people from diverse backgrounds are encouraged to apply. Current trust members whose terms of appointment are due to expire are welcome to apply for reappointment.

What it means to be a Victorian cemetery trust member

Cemetery trust members are appointed by the Governor in Council for a term of up to five years on the recommendation of the Minister for Health. Cemetery trusts are responsible for the management of public cemeteries, including planning for future cemetery services for their communities. More information about the role is available at <https://www.health.vic.gov.au/ cemeteries-and-crematoria/class-b-cemetery-trust-appointments>.

How to register your interest

Please refer to the trust details below and contact the applicable trust within two weeks this advertisement date:

Victorian Class B cemetery trust Contact details

The Terrapee Cemetery Trust 0419 395 890

The Wedderburn Cemetery Trust 0429 019 910

The Wychitella Cemetery Trust 0419 094 449

The Victorian Government is committed to ensuring that government boards and committees reflect the rich diversity of the Victorian community. We encourage applications from people of all ages, Aboriginal people, people with disability, people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds and from lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, gender diverse, intersex and queer people. The trust will provide adjustments to the recruitment process upon request.

WANTED TO BUY

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Strengthened Redbacks have season’s first win

WEDDEBURN women’s Hockey team celebrated its first win for the season against Birchip Watchem, coinciding with the grand opening of the new shared facility of the Donaldson Park Complex.

Coach Kelsea Nisbet was pleased to have a full bench for their first home game on home ground.

The team welcomed back season 2023 coach, Chelsea Hargreaves for her first game this season with Wedderburn and Britany Faduk returned from injury.

Both players worked the midfield together with good consistent passes to each other, resulting in a goal scored from Chelsea and new player Taryn Roberts.

Both Brittany and Chelsea were named as best players with junior player in her first season Dakota Martin taking the coach’s award.

Dakota’s mother Leane joined the team for her first game ever against the Bulls as a first time player. Unfortunately out for the season is half-back Rachel Coombes with a knee injury.

Underage welcomed back past player Flynn Lonza. This team shows strength every week with only seven players.

The Redbacks are grateful for other teams sharing players so our juniors have

the opportunity to play. New members are always welcome. Best on was Flynn, Sully Steel and Chanelle Badenhorst in a loss against Birchip Watchem.

Minkey had a fun game with Lara Polkinghorne awarded the chocolate.

This week, the Redbacks play the last game of the first round against Donald on home ground. Donald is just sitting above Wedderburn on the ladder.

The team will include Annabelle Hargreaves a past player growing up and developing her love for hockey in Wedderburn as a junior.

Annabelle has a strong connection with the Redbacks with her brother Chris as president and her cousin Laura Stilo as team mate.

Her return after a decade to play in the red and black will add experience to the young team.

Most North Central games last Saturday were rescheduled due to the country championships.

Results from matches played -

Under 12: Donald 3 d Boort 1 (Lillian Broad). St Arnaud 4 d Charlton 0. Underage: Donald d 8 Boort 0, St Arnaud 8 d Charlton 1. Women: Donald 3 lost to Boort 5 (Sharne Muller 2, Lucy Malone, Jessica Pink).

Mooney takes early lead in club championships

PYRAMID Hill Golf Club had a big turnout for the first round of the club championships on Sunday.

Leaders after the first round - A Grade: Grant Mooney (75), James Ritchie (78) and Don Stewart (84). B Grade: Tony Mullins (86), Cam Roulston (91) and John Kennedy (100). C Grade: Jed Stewart (100), Jeanette Naylor (101) and Jack Walters (108).

The second round will be played this Sunday at 11am with the third round on June 23 and the fourth round rescheduled to June 30.

MITIAMO

A par event was played at the weekend with Noah Condliffe winning on plus-one. Runner-up was Nathan Dennis who ended up square.

Nearest the pin on the 11th was Paul Condliffe. NTP 13th third shot was Bruce Lawry (in the hole).

BOORT

Fairly sublime conditions greeted the 10 competitors who took part in the first round of this year’s club championships on Saturday.

Continuing with his stunning form from last week, Stuart Tweddle recorded 40 stableford points to finish two clear of Graeme Ball and Scott Rollinson. Rounding out the ball pool was David Hellsten.

In the nearest the pins, Tim Lanyon, Damien Lanyon and Grant Tooth were the best from Saturday, while Dot Beattie’s putt on the 18th from Wednesday re-

NORTH Central footballers, netballers and hockey players will wear lavender or green on Saturday in a round to Maddi Fitzpatrick. Maddi lost her battle with cancer earlier this year and the round will raise funds for the Peter McCallum Cancer Foundation. Lavender is the colour for all cancers and Maddi’s favourite colour was green.

mained to be the longest one holed for the week, and Di Johnston’s tee shot on the 9th that finished 21cm away, has been the shot of the year so far.

In the club championships, Stuart holds a slender one-shot lead over Andrew Kane in A Grade, while David is already five clear of his nearest rival in B Grade. This weekend will see the second round held on Saturday.

WEDDERBURN

Jon Chandler has taken game day honours in the second round of the Wedderburn club championship.

Chandler finished with 85-15-69 to finish one ahead of Byron Bird 88-8-70. Nearest the pin was Liam McNeil on the 13th.

TARNAGULLA

The King’s Kangaroo Caddy event last Saturday was well supported at Tarnagulla.

Among the field was five new members of the club who joined other members for hot food and Jan Sharman’s baked delighted after play.

Women’s winner was Robyn Ravenhall from Jenny Honeyman. The men’s event was taken out by Peter Sanderson from Warwick Stagg after a three-way countback. Peter Sanderson had the longest drive and Ron Sanderson nearest the pin.

An ambrose event will be played on June 28 with free entry for members and school age children.

A minute’s silence to remember all those lost to cancer in local communities, will be held before the senior football, A Grade netball and women’s hockey matches. Awareness Ribbons will be given to everyone through the gate.

Cash donation boxes and a QR Code for online donations will be available on the day.

Pies are flying high

BOORT has jumped to top spot on the North Central A Grade ladder after putting a severe dent in Donald’s finals aspirations on Saturday.

The Pies had the edge throughout the indoor court clash at Donald and pulled away in the fourth quarter to claim victory by 17 goals.

The third term set up Boort’s success, piling on 17 goals while holding the Royals to just five when the Pies switched Carly Isaac from centre to wing attack and Emmerson Doyle into the centre.

Roxy Train in defence and Amy Dridan were central to seeing off

the Donald challenge that leaves the Royals tied with Charlton a game outside the top four.

In an upset, Wedderburn has slipped to fourth spot after falling two goals short against reigning premiers Nullawil.

The home team held slender leads in the first half before Wedderburn edged closer in the third quarter.

Olivia Lockhart and the experienced duo of Maddi Postle and Meg Lowry were best players for a Redbacks side that is still settling game plans after losing Aliza Lockhart to injury a fortnight ago.

Wedderburn still has the best

percentage in the competition and a win this Saturday over Donald will see the Redbacks return to the top tier.

A loss for the Royals will see them start to lose touch with top sides.

„ In Loddon Valley A Grade this week, Newbridge and Mitiamo meet in a crucial match for top spots.

The Maroons caused an upset in the defeat of Pyramid Hill before the bye and are playing with the form to continue causing headaches for other sides.

Mitiamo could be bolstered by the return of Sarah Bateman this week.

1874

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Wednesday – Open Midday

A Grade

Nullawil 16, 26, 35, 46, (46) d Wedderburn 12, 21, 33, 44, (44). Donald 12, 26, 31, 41, (41) lost to Boort 16, 28, 45, 58, (58). St Arnaud 5, 9, 14, 23, (23) lost to Charlton 14, 28, 38, 57, (57). Birchip Watchem 17, 29, 44, 56, (56) d Wycheproof Narraport 3, 9, 13, 20, (20).

Boort 140.08 22

Birchip Watchem 119.62 20

Nullawil 100.66 20

Wedderbur n 150.40 18

Sea Lake Nandaly 93.38 16

Charlton 104.68 12

Donald 104.39 12

Wycheproof N 56.73 8

St Arnaud 56.98 0

B Grade

Nullawil 4, 12, 25, 33, (33) lost to Wedderburn 18, 37, 46, 62, (62). Donald 14, 24, 41, 55, (55) d Boort 9, 18, 27, 34, (34). St Arnaud 7, 17, 26, 35, (35) d Charlton 11, 23, 35, 43, (43). Birchip Watchem 18, 32, 48, 67, (67) d Wycheproof Narraport 3, 7, 12, 15, (15).

Wedderburn 234.63 28

Birchip Watchem 168.46 26

Donald 132.67 18

Nullawil 120.73 16

Sea Lake Nandaly 114.97 16

Boort 108.39 12

Charlton 60.12 8

St Arnaud 48.01 4

Wycheproof N 29.77 0

C Grade

St Arnaud 8, 20, 30, 43, (43) d Charlton 10, 18, 31, 41, (41). Nullawil 12, 28, 42, 58, (58) d Wedderburn 9, 24, 36, 45, (45). Donald 2, 8, 17, 25, (25) lost to Boort 17, 27, 39, 49, (49). Birchip Watchem 12, 28, 44, 56, (56) d Wycheproof Narraport 2, 5, 7, 10, (10).

Nullawil 183.25 24

Birchip Watchem 167.71 24

Wedderbur n 131.73 20

Boort 160.65 16

Sea Lake Nandaly 145.71 16 St Arnaud 64.86

21,

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Amy Dridan (left) shoots another goal for Boort while Carly Isaac causes havoc for opponents on the wing. LH PHOTOS

seniors

Birchip Watchem 3.3 4.9 10.11 13.13 (91)

Wycheproof N 0.3 3.4 5.5 9.6 (60)

GOALS - Birchip Watchem: N. Rippon 3, D. Bell, J. Reid, B. Edwards, T. Colbert 2, L. Foott, L. Ryan. Wycheproof Narraport: M. Murgov 4, N. Grabowski, G. Turner, J. Coatsworth, S. Kennedy, C. Jones.

BEST - Birchip Watchem: T. Colbert, S. Simmons, D. Bell, M. Buchanan, N. Rippon, M. Rickard. Wycheproof Narraport: C. Jones, M. Murgov, M. Trzeciak, G. Turner, R. Fawcett, J. Walsh.

Donald 0.1 6.3 9.4 11.7 (73)

Boort 3.4 4.7 7.10 10.13 (73)

GOALS - Donald: J. Papalia 3, R. Young, N. Berry, B. Grant 2, A. Browne, T. Grant. Boort: J. Keeble 3, J. Fitzpatrick, J. Baddeley-Kelly, E. Coleman 2, J. Byrne.

BEST - Donald: A. Browne, J. Wallin, R. Hards, D. Kerr, B. Grant, J. Papalia. Boort: J. Baddeley-Kelly, J. Keeble, T. Potter, J. Dick, R. McGhie, J. Wilson.

Nullawil 4.5 8.9 12.11 13.15 (93)

Wedderburn 4.4 7.5 8.9 9.11 (65)

GOALS - Not supplied.

BEST - Nullawil: A. Casey, D. Watts, R. Smith, Z. Caccaviello, D. Smith, A. Oberdorfer. Wedderburn: J. McEwen, J. Lockhart, D. Jackson, T. Campbell, J. Hargreaves, A. Postle. St Arnaud 1.1

reserVes

Nullawil

GOALS - Nullawil: S. Goldsmith 10, N. Grigg

A. Forrester, J. Morrison, G. Forrester, S. Hogan, J. Box, J. Perry. Wedderburn: C. Hargreaves 2, incomplete. BEST - Nullawil: S. Goldsmith, Z. Kelly, A. Forrester, S. Hogan, B. Forrester, L. Braine. Wedderburn: J. Lyons, C. Hargreaves, R. Tonkin, A. Younghusband, C. Miller-Govett.

Birchip Watchem

Wycheproof N

(47)

(36)

GOALS - Birchip Watchem: C. Goode, M. Berry 2, D. Ferrier, J. Goldsmith, R. Doran. Wycheproof Narraport: M. Beckmans, B. Brennan, K. Kennedy, H. Senior, W. Ringin. BEST - Birchip Watchem: R. Hogan, J. Goldsmith, J. Ryan, J. Woods, M. Lade. Wycheproof Narraport: M. Noonan, B. Elliott, W. Ringin, R. Jones, W. Rodda, W. Allan.

St Arnaud

Charlton

GOALS - Nullawil: O. Daykin 5, L. Cooper, V. O’Bree, H. Humphreys, M. Fawcett, T. Perry 2, T. Vearing, M. Vallance, S. Vallance. Wedderburn: E. Clarke 2.

BEST - Nullawil: O. Daykin, L. Cooper, T. Vearing, V. O’Bree, B. Kelly, T. Perry. Wedderburn: T. Blair, M. Dean, E. Clarke.

(44)

(52)

BEST - Donald: W. Baird, B. Donnellon, B. Coleman-Young, R. Hair. Boort: S. Toose, M. Clark, B. Gibson, C. Gooding, D. Perryman.

(71)

(16)

GOALS - St Arnaud: G. Gorrie

2, R. Leach, H. Meagher, F. Donald, J. Batters, B. Donald. Charlton: S. Olive.

BEST - St Arnaud: H. Meagher, K. Torney, F. Donald, A. Lowe, S. Bridgeman, C. Hendy. Charlton: O. Sim, C. Boyle, J. Roberts, S. Zagame, W. Thomas.

UnDer

(52)

(40)

(34)

(77) Charlton 1.3

GOALS - St Arnaud: B. Durward 3, B. Phillips 2, T. Funston, M. Birthisel, B. Nicholas, R. Lempa, D. Gifford, J. Tillig, J. Hicks. Charlton: C. Gavaghan 3, D. Roberts 2. BEST - St Arnaud: M. Egan, Z. Phillips, B. Durward, T. Bertalli, H. Durward, R. Lempa. Charlton: D. Roberts, E. Fitzpatrick, J. Thompson, S. Woods, D. McCallum, T. Finlay.

GOALS - St Arnaud: D. Baldock 2, J. Hicks, H. Torney, C. Campbell, S. Penfold. Charlton: M. Davey, L. HolmesBrown 2, T. Salmon.

BEST - St Arnaud: M. Rogers, D. Baldock, H. McNally, H. Darby, S. Penfold, J. Hicks. Charlton: H. Sait, M. Thompson, J. Durie, T. Bates, M. Campbell, E. Needs.

Donald

Boort

(16)

GOALS - Donald: P. Morgan 2. Boort: N. McNally 4, V. Oldfield.

BEST - Donald: D. Gowlett, N. Clark, J. Dixon, J. Burke, B. Morgan, E. Landwehr. Boort: N. McNally, D. Hatcher, A. Potter, B. Herrington, Z. MacIntosh, C. Keanelly.

UnDer 17

Desperately close to pulling off major upset of season

BOORT was on track for an upset victory when pacey forward James Keeble booted two quick goals mid-way through the last quarter of Saturday’s North Central clash against Donald.

The Pies were 10 points up with momentum not seen since keeping Donald to a solitary behind in the opening term.

Keeble, Jhye Baddeley-Kelly and Tom Potter were running the ball, tackling and bustling with a ferocity that showed they had the scent of victory.

Sloppy play that had allowed Donald back into the closelycontested game looked like being erased from the game plan. Boort was suddenly faster, taking the first opportunity and not fumbling on the second or third.

But the more fancied Royals made the most of luck, a free kick in front of goal to Jamie Papalia had Donald four points down.

Boort headed straight into the forward 50 for two rushed behinds and a third shot at goal that fell short during a frenetic 10 minutes of play.

Blake Grant won the ball across half-forward and put Donald back into the lead only to see Boort roll the dice one last time into its forward zone for another rushed behind.

The final minutes of play were owned by the Royals but the close checking from Boort defenders saw wayward kicks that failed to separate the scoreline.

Tall Andrew Browne was among Donald’s genuine fourquarter contributors who helped bring his team back into the game during the second quarter.

It took until mid-way through that term for the Royals to get their noses in front for the first time. Grant and Browne led an attack that temporarily left Boort stunned and abandoning

the game plan. One passage saw Boort use seven kicks in defence just move forward and then was only rewarded with a behind.

Early third quarter goals for Donald hinted that Boort was about to capitulate after putting in a solid showing.

The risk of being overrun was stemmed by Keeble, Potter, and Alex Cockerell.

Baddeley-Kelly levelled scores just before time-on only for Noah Berry to put the Royals up on the siren.

Apart from a dominant opening quarter by Boort, both sides played in patches.

Momentum was hard to generate and at times flow was dictated by the side making the least fumbles under pressure.

Goal-front accuracy and high tackles also cruelled Boort’s chances in pulling up an upset that would have seen it within reach of the top four.

- Nullawil: N. Harrison, S. Morrison, L. Higgins, C. Smith, C. Poyner, D. Poyner. Wedderburn: T.

A. Roberts, B. Noordennen, A. Noordennen, A. Derks.

(22)

- Donald: H. Funcke, S. Mortlock, O. Brennan, N. Michael. Boort: S. Muller, C. Gould, D. Perryman, J. Malone, C. McNally. St Arnaud

(79)

(6)

BEST - St Ar naud: A. Reyne, F. Green, N. Saludes, C. Baldwin, S. Greenaway, C. Hendy. Charlton: M. Fitzpatrick, I. Roberts, C. Zagame, L. Monaghan, H. McGrath, T. Bourke. Birchip Watchem

Birchip Watchem: Not

Wycheproof Narraport: F. Mitrovic, R. Beattie, Z. McKerrow, J. Tonkin, L. Hall, O. White.

Cloke and dagger: depleted defence hampers game plan

LATE withdrawals of key Wedderburn defenders Danny Benaim and coach Tom Metherell added to fresh challenges for the Redbacks on Saturday.

After the stunning draw against Birchip Watchem the previous round, Wedderburn was tipped to take the points over Nullawil.

That was until the Maroons, in the last season before merging with Wycheproof Narraport, selected Collingwood premiership player and current Bombers assistant coach Travis Cloke in the side.

Cloke had an influence and kicked two goals but was still finding his way in a new team.

Veteran Redback Adam Postle did the bulk of the work in defence while ruckman Jordy Hargreaves again showed he is Mr Consistent in 2024.

Tommy Campbell, after going goalless against the Bulls, returned to form with his gamepredicted five goals.

Wedderburn was one point off the pace at the first break and still in touch at half-time.

Onballers Jackson McEwen and Darcy Jackson and Joe Lockhart in the centre were crucial to the Redbacks’ attack.

The second half, however, saw Nullawil exploit weaknesses in the Redbacks’ structure that had emerged earlier.

Wedderburn was inaccurate with kicks forgot the attributes that had seen it surprise with form this season.

Nullawil ended winning by 28 points. The Maroons have already hinted that Cloke will be back to play three more games in the home and away season and qualify for finals.

In this weekend’s round, Wedderburn is at home against Donald in a match the Redbacks must win.

And Boort will host St Arnaud who won their first game in two years over Charlton last Saturday.

LADDERS

LODDON VALLEY SENIORS

Fitzgerald on new board

LODDON Shire CEO Lincoln Fitzgerald has been named as one of four members of the new AFL Central Victoria regional council.

AFL Victoria has replaced the former commission with a new council in a mirror of changes also implemented in the Gippsland, Goldfields, Western District and WimmeraMallee regions.

Castlemaine’s Mr Fitzgerald, CEO of Loddon Shire since 2021, has played a handful of games with Castlemaine reserves in the Bendigo league over the past decade including two in 2023.

Swan Hill’s Gavin Hore will be the only member from the old commission that resigned in April to continue on the council.

GOALKICKING

NORTH CENTRAL SENIORS

47 - (4) - Ben Edwards - Birchip-Watchem

21 - (1) - Nicholas Rippon - Birchip-Watchem

21 - (5) - Jack Exell - Nullawil

19 - (3) - Anthony Zelencich -

2021. He had played with Sandhurst and Calivil Football Netball Clubs.

The announcement also saw Kilmore Racing Club CEO Ben Murphy and Bendigo Bank credit policy analyst/manager Nicholas Falconer confirmed as other members of the council.

Mr Murphy is a former YCW player while Mr Falconer has been involved with Bendigo umpires and also played briefly in Inglewood reserves.

and determined in the coming months, the appointments are timely as we look forward to working collaboratively with all Central Victoria stakeholders for the benefit of the game.”

14 - (2) - Harry Harcourt - Sea Lake Nandaly

11 - (2) - Chris Hargreaves - Wedderburn

11 - (6) - Joseph McGrath - Charlton

Jarrod Fitzpatrick among goal kickers on Saturday

THIS WEEK

LODDON VALLEY

Officer-in-charge of the CFA’s Swan Hill workshop, Mr Hore was a member of the Central Murray/Central Rivers League Board and committee member of the Woorinen Football Netball Club before joining the commission in

AFL Victoria community manager John O’Donohue told leagues and clubs: “As the AFL Central Victoria jurisdiction stretches across several population and competitions bases, it was desirable to appoint council members who are connected to the region’s communities and pleasingly, that has been achieved.

“With community football administration commencing planning for the 2025 season and with several local matters to be discussed

Major issues facing the new regional council include the future structure of football with Maryborough looking to become the second club in a year to exit the Bendigo league. The Maryborough club is exploring options after a season already riddled with reserve grade forfeits and defeats of more than 150 points each week.

Regional councillors are expected to have an induction session this week ahead of a meeting with league leaders next week.

Meanwhile, AFL Central Victoria has started interviews to fill the vacant Loddon Valley league executive officer position following the resignation of Laura Naughton with an appointment expected in weeks.

40 years since last big goal dual

THE mirror has been reversed over the King’s Birthday weekend - looking back to get a picture of what’s ahead in Loddon Valley football for the big goal guns.

I’ve gone back to the late 1970s and the 1980s - the days of ABBA, Michael Jackson and Bruce Springsteen songs being pumped out at after-match discos in clubrooms - to find a period as exciting as 2024 with Mellington and Sharp in the race for a century and even a new league record.

Back when the Commodore was king of the road, there were some handy players swooping around goals.

There was Alan Jackson lining up with Korong Vale who kicked a few centuries and Gary Leach at Mitiamo. Mick Holland may have just fallen short of breaking the magic number but he was key in those dominant Newbridge sides.

Inglewood had Kelvin Dows and there was Colin Grenfell at Bridgewater.

Peter Collins would set a league record with Bridgewater in 1982140 home and away season goals. Jackson kicked 114 and Calivil’s

Mick Murphy booted 102. For the first time in 40 years, the prospect of multiple centuries looms close.

Back in those days, football was more stop-start and an accurate forward crucial to success.

Since then, we’ve seen Greg Gadsden at Bears Lagoon Serpentine and current Loddon Valley record holder Brandyn Grenfell (Marong) add excitement to the league.

Mellington is only 13 shy of the century, Sharp still has a few more to go but will bridge the gap over the next fortnight.

Who will win the race? The crystal ball says Mellington to end the home and away season with 154 and Sharp with 146. Two play-

ers with 300-plus goals, almost as good combined as Collins, Jackson and Murphy with 182.

Now onto this week’s matches.

I can’t see Inglewood troubling Marong, Pyramid Hill heads to the Dome and could have a blowout victory against Maiden Gully and Bridgewater should tame the Demons at Calivil who would need more than ring-ins and the spirit of the long-ago rodeos to cause an upset.

That’s leads us to the real match of interest. Newbridge takes a journey traversing rivers, swamps and plains to Mitiamo in what is a must-win game for the Maroons if they want to keep pushing for fifth spot.

A Newbridge win would see them jump above Inglewood at the half-way mark of the season.

The round will also generate a few other changes. Pyramid Hill will lift to second spot on the ladder, dislodging Bears Lagoon Serpentine who have the bye this Saturday and will likely drop to fourth.

- GLENN CATTO

THIS WEEK’S LODDON VALLEY PREDICTIONS

Birchiip Watchem bye

League teams available on Thursday nights at www.loddonherald.com.au

COMMENT

Put a pulse into long weekend

FOR sports-mad communities across the Loddon, it was a very sorry King’s Birthday weekendnot a single match of football or netball at one of nine recreation reserves in the shire.

North Central league scheduled road trips for Wedderburn - where the first home game of the season was played only the previous weekend - and Boort. Loddon Valley had a general bye.

The chance to showcase community sport in Loddon communities was a missed opportunity that a bit of planning could have created a showcase event.

That could have been a North Central match on Loddon soil, attracting an augmented crowd of Loddon Valley fans or from among the many hundreds holidaying in the region on the last long weekend before the AFL Grand Final public holiday at the end of September. Or Loddon Valley could have scheduled one game, those two clubs take the bye the week before or after in creating a split round. Throw in special activities, generate an even greater sense of community and family and the atmosphere would have been greater than any other “special” rounds in a season.

Loddon Valley and North Central leagues should get their heads together before settling on the 2025 season draw to make sure a large part of regional Victoria is not again left without football, netball and, in the case of North Central, hockey, on the King’s Birthday weekend.

If scheduling just one game in the Loddon Shire on that long weekend is beyond being made to happen, look at other options.

Could the AFL Central Victoria gala day held the previous weekend be shifted to the King’s Birthday and brought out into the Loddon Shire?

Whatever the answers, the solutions will only strengthen local sport, engage more people and build profile for local leagues and clubs.

Winter sport is at the heart of every community in the Loddon Shire and last weekend that beat was silent. Let’s hope there is a strong pulse in 2025.

- CHRIS EARL

Boort’s

Boort’s Tom Potter was outnumbered but unbeaten in this passing during the dramatic daw. LH PHOTO

In conversation with ... Three rare Redbacks

By CHRIS EARL

ADAM Postle’s days as a junior footballer running around Wedderburn’s Donaldson Park were far from illustrious.

He only headed down to have a kick after encouragement from a mate.

Postle even took a year off after his under 16 days ended before coming back in 2002 in the reserves and making his senior debut.

That was the first batch of stories trotted out in the new Donaldson Park complex last week when Postle sat down after training. With him were the first two players, and mates, to reach 300 senior games - Danny Benaim and Andrew Lockhart.

“Even when we won a premiership, there was the photo of (then-president) Leon Holt congratulating Andrew on being the first to play 300 seniors ... staring down on us,” said Benaim.

That was one of five premierships Benaim and Postle have featured in for the Redbacks. Most memorable the famous quartet between 2011 and 2014.

“I made my senior debut in 2002, maybe floating on the wing or forward flank, Something like that,” Postle said.

“Danny was already in the senior side and I’ve always looked up to him. He is a year older than me.

“I was also a fair bit lighter then, coming in about 80kg in my first senior year.”

Postle had a big break in 2006

against St Arnaud when Adam Ritchie copped a red card and he was thrown into the ruck before his career saw him drift forward and then into defence.

Benaim, sitting on 343 senior games with Wedderburn and eyeing No 350 later in the season, started in the seniors in time for a new Millennium.

“When I got to 300 games it was surreal to think only one other person had done that at the club,” he said.

“I guess though that with age comes the games.”

Postle adds: “I was pumped the day Danny played his 300th.”

Never suspended and coming fourth once in the Feeny Medal (Postle says ruckmen always think they are a chance for the

big medal), Postle has always remained loyal to Wedderburn.

“Had plenty of Loddon Valley clubs knock on the door. Never any from North Central as it’s an unspoken rule you don’t go after other club’s players.

“I did almost leave in 2007 and go to Pyramid Hill. Got a phone call from the coach, said we’d be a better side than last year. Stayed on and we won the flag.

“My brother Jarrod did leave, going to Newbridge and thinking I would follow. No.”

Postle and Benaim played in each of the five premierships.

“We are elite in our preparation and recover like no one else,” Benaim quips on the longevity and success of their careers that have included inter-

league side selection. “In those grand final years we would feed off each other.”

Postle said: “We love the place (Wedderburn) and I’m glad I never left.”

After half an hour of banter, founding member of the 300club Andrew Lockhart arrives at the table.

“Played for 20 years and never won a flag. Played a couple of finals but went straight out. I did win the club under 16 best and fairest once,” said Lockhart.

He remembers his milestone game more than 20 years ago.

“Leon Holt made a big thing of it, like someone was going to the moon. There was a banner and a dinner afterwards where the ladies prepared a three-course meal and I was presented with life membership as well.”

But Lockhart said team success was at the heart of community football and the Redbacks.

“I’d swap all 300 games for a flag,” he said.

Benaim interjects: “Yes, that photo on the wall every time we walked into the clubrooms.”

The 300-game club three then became like a well-oiled team on the field, working in unison.

“This is home, this is community,” they said.

Lockhart has followed in the footsteps of his grandfather and father as Redback players. Another generation is now on the football field and netball courts.

Also on the courts is Postle’s wife Maddi who “likes to remind me that she has played in nine

A Grade premierships” where she has a reputation in defence equally as dogged as her husband. Lockhart had hung up the boots when Postle made his senior debut, Benaim the only player he took the field with still being selected each week.

“The only other player still running around is St Arnaud’s Heath McNally in the twos.” he said.

Lockhart said Wedderburn had always had a nucleus of local players to build for success.

“You can’t stop people wanting their football clubs to survive.”

The 300-gamers say that the competitiveness of North Central football this season could see any club win if they are in form.

“Danny has something like a 60 per cent win rate as a player,” Lockhart adds.

For Postle, his membership of the elite club pending running through the banner on Saturday, his routine will be pretty much the same.

“Steak and eggs for breakfast, run around helping Maddi get the kids organised and then get to the ground early. I like to wander around and get a feel for the day,” Postle said.

“I will be glad when it’s done ... don’t like being the centre of attention. And after losing almost two seasons due to COVID, it’s something I thought wouldn’t happen.”

Lockhart and Benaim have been waiting for company at the table. An extra seat is ready for Postle on Saturday night.

2014 premiers

Come Saturday, Wedderburn’s senior 300-gamers Danny Benaim and Andrew Lockhart will welcome Adam Postle as a member of their elite group. LH PHOTO

Loddon HERALD sport

Thursday JUNE 13, 2024

ELITE COMPANY

FIVE-TIME North Central Football League premiership player Adam Postle on Saturday joins an elite club at Wedderburn.

He will be only the third Redback to play 300 senior games.

The veteran defender who made his debut in 2007 “having a fly on the wing” will run out in the match against Donald at Donaldson Park and join two other club legends in the elite group.

In the side is expected to be senior game recordholder Danny Benaim while former president Andrew Lockhart will be at the boundary to welcome the 300-club’s newest member.

Postle has been regularly among the Redbacks’ best this season and at 39, has yet to set a retirement date from the game he took up as a youngster.

“I’ll just be glad when Saturday is over. People have been counting down to the day for so long,”

he said. “I’m not one for all the attention. Playing is about the club and getting the job done on the ground.”

Postle’s commitment to the club over more than 20 years has already been praised by president Chris Hargreaves.

“Poss is a great clubman who has stayed with the Redbacks for his entire football career,” said Hargreaves.

“He has tasted the joys of premierships along with the tougher

years and shown that red and black run through his veins.

“To notch up 300 senior games is a rare feat at Wedderburn and in the North Central league. Who better to be the next member of the special club than Poss.”

Ahead of the milestone game, Postle last week sat down with Benaim and Lockhart to talk about football, the Redbacks and life for a special Loddon Herald feature in today’s edition - See Page23.

Flag star comes in on a point

NULLAWIL had little trouble fitting one-time Collingwood premiership player Travis Cloke into its points cap at the weekend.

Last year’s North Central league runners-up, struggling to repeat the form early season in 2024, picked up the ex-AFL star for its clash against Wedderburn.

Cloke has not played since retiring from AFL football in 2017 and came into the Nullwil side as a one-point player.

All North Central clubs have an allocation of 42 player points available each week.

The point allocation is the same for powerhouse side Sea Lake Nandaly as it is for St Arnaud that at the weekend won its first game in two years. In 2022, the Saints defeated Charlton, Boort and Wycheproof Narraport in successive rounds.

Last Saturday’s 43-point win was over Charlton.

Nullawil wants to have Cloke’s signature on the dotted line before the registration cut-off in a fortnight.

The Maroons this Saturday play their 2025 merger partner Wycheproof Narraport. Cloke has not been ruled out of selection.

LH PHOTO

Adam Postle lines up for his 300th senior game this Saturday

Travis Cloke